labradoodle cost puppy

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. When do you switch from puppy food to adult food? Are you a first-time, inexperienced puppy owner? Are you confused about what to feed your Labrador puppy? Do you wish to provide your beloved puppy with the best diet but are confused as to what that is? We have compiled this article for you to help you figure out the best options for your puppy. What to feed your puppy? What are the different types of food available? There is no one food type that everyone agrees to be the best and most effective for your Labrador puppies. Even experts disagree on what type of food is the absolute best for your beloved puppy. There are 4 main types of food for dogs. Each one of them has its fair share of pros and cons. Kibble or dry food Many people regard kibble as the best food for puppies. Dry food is by far the most popular feeding method due to its convenience and price. But is it any good? If you go for high-quality kibble food brands, you can be sure that the food is providing your dog with all the necessary nutrients it requires. However, if you choose to go for cheaper brands of kibble, you will not only be unsure of the quality of the food, but they will also lack the necessary nutrients that your dog requires. It is convenient, cost-effective in the long run, and comes in a wide range of flavors. However, dogs can become bored of kibble, and they will never be as excited to eat dry food as to eat actual meat. Despite criticism, this type of dog food has some benefits. This makes cleaning after your dog much easier for you. It also reduces the risk of bloat, which can be a potentially fatal condition. Dogs fed on kibble are more at risk of bloat. It makes them clean, glowing, and shiny. It reduces the risk of obesity, and your dog enjoys a slim but healthy figure. Dogs enjoy eating meat more than they enjoy eating dry food. However, there are some cons to a completely raw diet. When dogs bite down on a bone, they swallow small fragments that could form a blockage in the intestine. This blockage, in the best-case scenario, causes constipation, and in the worst-case scenario requires immediate veterinary surgery. Wet food cans and pouches A puppy might prefer wet food over kibble as it looks and tastes way more appetizing. However, as in the case of dry food, if you choose a cheap brand, it will not have the essential nutrients your puppy needs. So choose high-quality brands that will ensure the nutrition that your puppy needs. An advantage of wet food, compared to dry food, is that it contains a higher percentage of liquid, which helps hydrate the dog and make it feel fuller. Home-cooked puppy food If you are reluctant to buy mass-produced puppy food from the market, you can always prepare a homemade meal for your dog. You have to make sure that the meal consists of all the necessary nutrients required by your dog. How much should you feed your puppy? Like human babies or any baby animals, puppies also need more meals than adult dogs. A puppy will need about 3 or 4 meals a day. If you are feeding your puppy 3 meals a day, and your pup has loose stools, then take the amount of food for 3 meals, and divide it into 4 meals in a day. How do you recognize quality puppy food? There are a lot of choices to choose from when you go to buy puppy food. So how do you choose the one with the best quality? If you go for one of the well-known, popular, and widely consumed brands, the chances are that the puppy food of these brands is of high quality; hence, their popularity. So, do not be reluctant to spend some bucks, and get your beloved puppy the food it deserves. What is to be done if your puppy is not eating? Not all puppies are greedy for more and more food. It is a proven fact that puppies tend to eat more when they are eating in a group, and generally eat less when they are eating less. Hence, for the first few days that your puppy spends without its brothers and sisters, it may not eat as much and have a reduced appetite. Usually, a reduced appetite is not something to worry about, but it is best to mention it to your vet in the next checkup or if the problem continues to persist. Click here to find the best dog food for your Labrador Puppy When do you switch from puppy food to adult food? A small dog like a Chihuahua might become an adult when it is around 9 months of age. However, a larger dog breed like a Labrador will need another 4 to 6 months to become an adult. You also have to reduce the amount of food you give to your dog as it will not need as much food as an adult as it is needed as a puppy. You may also change dog food brands if you feel like it. Now that you are aware of different alternatives of puppy food that are available for you, and of some main questions regarding dogs and their food, it is time for you to decide what type of food will suit your dog the best and what brand you are going to purchase your dog food from if you are not making a homemade meal. If you want to find the best pet insurance for your labrador, click here. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

Shadow the American Bulldog as a puppy at 10 weeks old Shadow the American Bulldog as a puppy at 6 months old sitting on the couch Shadow the American Bulldog at 10 months old looking over the back of the couch Jynx the XL American Bulldog at 5 years old—"My big boy. He's a gentle giant. Jynx shown here at 5 years old and pounds 56 kg " Tut the American Bulldog puppy at 8 weeks old—"This is Tut. I got him at 5 weeks of age. I never wanted a male dog, but now I won't trade him for anything! At 10 weeks old he weighed 22 pounds. She wasn't sure what to think about the noise the camera was making! She's a very smart girl, but awfully stubborn! We have started obedience training with her and although commands take a while to imprint, once she has it, she's golden! She now sits in her "spot" in the kitchen and waits quietly and patiently while we fill her food and water bowl. When her bowls are full she continues to wait patiently, all eyes on us, until we tell her "Good girl, you can have it! He has been a tremendous addition to our family!! We are a family of five and never before had a dog. He loves to fetch, play tug and when it is time to mellow out, he does!!! He simply picks a spot in the room and relaxes while we go about with our business!! We couldn't be happier with Cooper and can't wait for everything that is to come!!! Maggie is a three-year-old American Bulldog. Her mom is a Johnson type and her dad is a Scott type. We did not know anything about this breed before we got her but we quickly realized that we had to learn fast. She is very strong-willed and also just plain strong! This breed needs hours of exercise a day and a strong pack leader. By fulfilling her needs, we have been able to see her develop to her full potential. American Bulldogs are not for everyone so please choose this breed only after very careful thought. She is loving, fearless and protective. She is also exceptionally smart. She knows her toys by name and could play hide-and-seek for hours. When we tell her to go to her bed she does and does not get up until given permission so we can eat dinner without her begging for bits. She truly listens to her people and is eager to please. She does not like looking at herself in the mirror and she growls at animals on TV and in movies. We will never own a different breed. She has our hearts forever. We've had CeeCee about 5 months now and she has become a very much loved member of our family. Talk about personality! If it weren't for his instruction, CeeCee would be unmanageable. We didn't train her to do or not do anything; she just did her thing and usually agreed with us and followed us around. I started walking for my sanity's sake and she enjoyed tagging along.She was a little over a year old when she was given to us by friends who had to move across the country and couldn't take her along. So before she came to our house, we started reading everything we could find on American Bulldogs. I saw the info on the dogbreedinfo site about Cesar and devoured his book. We found the show and soon after I started ordering the DVD sets so I could watch the episodes over and over. As soon as she got here, we took her for a long walk together. She thinks any package left by the delivery man is her new chew toy, and still gets too excited occasionally, but she is learning to sit still and control her impulses. Our neighbors have wolf-dogs that occasionally get loose and it doesn't scare CeeCee a bit wish I could say the same for me. She holds her own and is gradually winning them over. CeeCee came to us during a time when I was grieving a very traumatic event. She was the catalyst for letting go of things I couldn't fix or change. At first, we were tempted to rename her Bessie. She had just had a litter of pups and the resemblance to your average Holstein was remarkable. Now, all trimmed up and dressed in her fancy black lipstick, she makes us all smile. He is my first dog and has been the best dog anyone could ever have asked for. After originally being chosen by another owner, Casey spent the first 2 months on his own crated nearly 23 hours a day, by himself without a toy in his crate. Since that time he has been the most loveable, affectionate dog anyone could ask for. He loves to play with other dogs, especially his new 3-month-old sister. He even tries to play with our 3-year-old cat. A true Johnson bully, he loves to be out doors running and training. His favorite things to do are play with his football, play tug, dig holes and eat freshly fallen snow. My husband has watched the Dog Whisperer gaining a lot of tips on how to get Carson to "calm" down. She loves people and thinks that everyone must love her. After using some of the techniques on the show, she has really changed into a calmer dog. Rose was a rather destructive puppy, but only when left alone. I had to crate her during periods when my wife and I would both be away to keep her from destroying our home or ingesting foreign objects. I thought we had taken on more than we could handle, but she learned commands and tricks faster than any dog I'd ever had. We began educate ourselves, and the first step was to walk her 2 miles a day, play fetch and Frisbee for marathon sessions, built her a "spring pole" of sorts, and even take long bike rides with her on leash. Her excitability at newcomers decreased right away, and her furniture-chewing habit ceased. Currently at almost 4 years old, she's the best dog I could ever hope for. I shudder to think that we considered giving her up for adoption, and now people ask us how we have such a well-trained dog! And Rose required being handled a bit more sternly than the Labs, Rottie, and mostly mixed breeds I'd owned previously. Only one harsh correction was usually needed; two thousand light vocal reprimands meant nothing. Today if we are playing fetch and the ball goes over the fence, she looks at me almost trembling and I can either tell her "get it" allowing her to hop the fence, retrieve, and hop back or give her a stay command. At 18 months of age, I never believed this dog could restrain herself from any impulse. I only have one dog of this breed to draw on, but I'd venture to say that the American Bulldog needs stimulation, love, play, but most of all exercise and an occasional heavy hand early on, so we could establish her place in our pack. She has made my wife and me far more physically active than we had been, and even that is life enhancing. They are incredibly powerful; playing tug with her has to be experienced to be believed. At only 78 pounds, Rose can jump, pull and bite like nothing else. She once jumped up and bit a tree limb and just hung and shook after I took her rope toy down from the limb. Their enthusiasm is a big part of their charm, but I would not recommend this breed to a busy person who can't devote the time. She is great around kids, cats, other dogs, and even just barks or whimpers when she encounters a snake or turtle while we're camping. But Rose was on the fast track to being given up, when we realized she simply needed more exercise and for us to be more firm with her. He requires a lot of exercise or he can get himself into trouble he is very strong. The most important thing in raising him was being firm and consistent on everything. He is very smart and learns things quickly, even bad habits. He is somewhat protective of females and children around strangers, but if introduced loves everyone. Benelli is excellent with our 2 young children, ages 2 and 3. She's so calm and gentle that my 3-year-old can hold the leash while we go for walks. She absolutely loves our cats and she gets along very well with our other dog. This is our first American Bulldog and we couldn't ask for a better dog!! Her name is Wanda. I have learned so much about her from your website; it is very interesting and useful. I taught her how to sit and how to walk beside me , not in front of me by your instructions. We live in El Salvador in Central America. He's my first AB and I am impressed with the breed. His father is a Johnson type doggy and his mom a Scott type. Porky the American Bulldog puppy at 10 weeks, weighing 21 pounds Belle the American Bulldog at 3 years old—"We rescued Bella a year ago from a pen in a neighbor's garden. She weighed 34 pounds 17 kilos and had ten pups inside her. She was a very scared and seemed to be an aggressive dog. I broke through the fence when no one had been to her cage for 4 days. After a lot of shouting and abuse from my neighbor she eventually let me have her. She had 10 pups in my summerhouse and slowly each day she came to trust me a little more. She still growled and was scared of everyone else. We brought her into our house and had a cage for her. Cesar Millan was and is my hero. He gave me the belief in myself that I could cope with such a big scared dog. We have now had her for a year. She is like a different dog. She sleeps with the cats that she once so wanted to attack. She no longer needs the hated cage and loves visitors that used to scare her. I have never had a dog before and to be honest never really wanted one, but my Bella has filled a gap I never knew was there. So for anyone out there thinking about owning a rescued American Bulldog all you need is lots of patience, a strong will and a touch of Cesar Millan. Like I said earlier, breeders follow kennel club breed standards as much as possible. The standard color of the AKC for this breed is white. This explains why the white American Bulldog is considered the most common among its color varieties. Aside from the solid white, those with colored markings are quite popular as well. In a litter of pups, you will never know exactly what colors you are going to get. Your baby American Bulldogs may come from the same litter but may have different coat colors. Canine genetics is a fairly complex but really interesting topic. I will try to explain this as simply as possible so you too can understand how it works. Genes are in-charge of two things in determining dog coats. First, they control which pigments are produced resulting in the colors of your dogs. Second, they control where these pigments are produced which explains why there are solid-colored, two-toned, brindled, and merle coats. Color genes may also dilute each other resulting in different colors. I mentioned earlier that lilac American Bulldogs are actually black dogs that are diluted twice. Its chocolate gene [bb] dilutes its black color to brown, then its blue [dd] gene further dilutes it to blue. The result is a lilac Bulldog that is grayish with hints of lilac or purple. These dogs can live long when they are healthy and well-taken care of. It has not been proven that coat color affects the health of American Bulldogs. The direct association between these two is yet to be explored. Regardless of what color your American Bulldog is, you should look out for these common health risks: Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is an orthopedic problem where the thigh bone does not fit the hip joint causing Bulldogs to feel pain and limp. Hypothyroidism: Bulldogs are prone to thyroid problems like hypothyroidism. Aside from health, there are also concerns about the effect of coat color on the temperament of American Bulldogs. While black American Bulldogs may look more intimidating than others, there are no studies that prove how these dogs, or any color for that matter, are more aggressive than other variants. In general, American Bulldogs are playful, sociable, and intelligent. The aggressive reputation brought by their bull-baiting past is a misconception as they are actually great for families and even with kids. Early training and socialization are key to having a well-behaved and obedient American Bulldog companion at home. What coat color they have upon birth will still be the same coat color and pattern until they are fully grown. However, it is not uncommon for their coats to become lighter or darker when they transition into adulthood. It may turn into another hue or shade on a case-to-case basis. After all, no two American Bulldogs are the same. To give you an idea of how an American Bulldog grows from a small pup into a big adult, watch this growing-up video documented by a fur parent. American Bulldog Eye and Nose Colors Aside from its coat, the eyes and nose of the American Bulldog also have color standards set by the two kennel clubs that recognize the breed. Blue, green, or parti colored eyes are disqualified. Eyes that do not match in color are disqualified. The eyes of American Bulldogs are typically black or brown. There may be instances, though, where heterochromia occurs where each eye carries a different color. Kennel clubs consider heterochromia a cosmetic fault. American Bulldog Nose Colors. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article.

For the complete list please see our Boxer Reference Links page. In the case of boxers from a reputable breeder, you will usually pay more than what an owner is charging since these breeders usually have to pay higher licensing and insurance fees as well as build kennels and other facilities that would be suitable for breeding dogs. In addition, reputable breeders will allow you to take the boxer home with a signed contract that prevents them from breeding their dog or selling it to other people. However, there are usually people who breed boxers as a side hobby and will be quite willing to make a deal with you. Although it is not recommended that you buy from these people, they usually give the dog away for free or for a very low price because they are trying to get rid of their dogs. In addition, buying from someone who breeds boxers as a side hobby may be cheaper. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Wisconsin To find a responsible boxers breeder in Wisconsin, the best thing to do is consult your veterinarian. Since there are many reputable breeders in this state, asking people who live nearby would be advisable as well. If you cannot ask anyone locally for help, then using the Internet will also allow you to look up lists of accredited dog breeders which may give you some leads on finding reputable breeders. Another important factor to consider if you want to buy a boxer puppy in Wisconsin is where the dog will live. Although Wisconsin does not have any requirements for the living conditions of dogs, it is always best to find out how big the kennel or barn will be and what the weather conditions are like in order to make sure that your boxer puppy can adapt to its new environment. Visit Your Wisconsin Boxer Breeder in Person In order to find boxers for sale in Wisconsin from a reputable breeder, it is important that you visit their kennel or farm. Although there are many breeders who advertise through the Internet and will ship a boxer puppy to your home, it is always best to buy a dog from a local breeder since they can ensure you good customer service. Visiting your Boxer breeder in person will also give you a chance to see the kind of environment your boxer is living in. This will allow you to determine if their breeding practices help promote good health and temperament as well as how they treat the dogs. It also allows you to connect with the breeder and makes it easier for you both to establish a strong relationship. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Wisconsin When you are searching for a Wisconsin boxer breeder, making sure that the boxing breeders in your area are trustworthy is just one of the most important factors to consider. You must know that not all reputable boxer breeders would be aware of how to raise their puppies correctly. References will be of great help in making sure that you will only be dealing with the most reliable boxer breeders in Wisconsin. For these reasons, asking for references is one of the best ways to ensure that they are professional Wisconsin boxer breeders. Ask Your Wisconsin Boxer Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers Asking your Wisconsin boxer breeder to introduce you to their past clients is one of the most effective ways in order to determine if they are professional or not. If possible, you can also ask for referrals at this time. If these references and referrals are promising, then it basically means that they are reliable boxing breeders in Wisconsin. However, always keep in mind that not all reputable boxing breeders would provide these things right away especially when it comes to the safety of their puppies. Take note that responsible and trustworthy boxers breeders would look out for the welfare of their pets before anything else. This is why you must always make it a point to trust the boxer breeder in Wisconsin only when they are willing to hand over these things. Does the boxer breeder in Wisconsin that you are considering working with have a good relationship with their veterinarian? This basically means that they are responsible when it comes to taking care of their pets and not just looking at them as a source of income. You just need to remember that not all reputable boxer dog breeders would be easy to work with. In fact, you should already know this when looking for boxers in Wisconsin since not everyone has the same standards and expectations. They ask for payment during the process of the transaction: Before getting to work with Wisconsin boxer breeders, they must first know what kind of payment they are looking forward to accepting. If they immediately ask for payment even before doing anything, then this is one discouraging sign that points out that you might be dealing with an unethical boxer breeder at this present time. To them, money comes first and not the welfare of their pets. There are a lot of people who would prefer written contracts since these things hold both sides accountable. This is the kind of question which you should ask your breeder even before anything else. If they keep on telling you that nothing is wrong with them, this is yet another discouraging sign which points out that there might be something wrong with their facilities right now. So make sure to ask this question before agreeing to any contract. Remember that this is not just another pet since they are known to be quite destructive. So if you want them to do this somewhere else, make sure that you give them something which they could use for this purpose like chew toys and bones. But at the same time, it will also depend upon their age. If they are still young, then it might take some time before they would chew on things other than their own toys and bones. Just keep in mind that these pets would eventually grow up one day, and they will start exploring your house. This is the only way for them to learn what kinds of things are appropriate or not. You must never forget about this since this would have a long-term effect on their behavior later on in life. Just be patient when it comes to training them so everything would go according to plan. If these pets go to the bathroom inside your house, then this can lead to a lot of serious problems for both you and them. Remember that training your pet is essential because it helps strengthen your relationship with each other over time. They need enclosure crate training. Crate training works hand-in-hand with potty training which is why you should not forget about this one thing above all else. They would give you some good advice which will help improve the overall relationship that you have with your pet. Remember, patience is a virtue. Just have patience with them since they will eventually learn what you want them to do regardless of how long it may take. Enjoy your brand new Boxer puppy. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Fast forward 6 years. Although I never did get to have "Tiger Lily," that puppy was never far from my mind. Opportunity struck when I met a new friend, Lorie Boodry, who shared the same passion for boxers I strived to. This wonderful woman gave me my very first boxer at 16 years old, and that boxer was by my side until bloat took her from me at almost 14 years old. I had to give her back to the Lord and the wonderful woman who gifted her to me. That boxer is Raynen On Your Parade. And the name Raynen Boxers was born. I'm a boxer lover to the core with an interest in obedience training and 3 little boys who keep me too busy to do much with it. My boxers make our house a home and it's my wish for you to have a boxer to love too! We're not an ordinary pet breeder. We're also not show breeders, or working dog breeders. Our boxers are pets, they're farm dogs. They live in our house, sleep on our couch, and get hand fed by our toddlers. But we do strive to make good citizens of them. Our dogs have been to obedience classes and have earned some titles along the way. I owned a 13 year old boxer, my first boxer, and it's my goal that your next boxer lives just as long. I have done pedigree research and bought my dogs from breeders who know their dogs for generations. My dogs are health tested so I can do my very best to assure your next dog is as healthy as a breeder can make them. Hip evaluations, Holter reports, DNA testing, and echocardiograms are done on all of our dogs. I bred 4 litters of boxers in .I bought my own male in , a perfect flashy fawn with plans to breed boxers for generations. He was my Wreckless Intentions! Years later all of my girls were spayed and Wrecker was just a couch potato. Wrecker has unfortunately passed away, but I bought Sunshine from Lorie Boodry's last litter. She is a great great granddaughter of Wrecker's and a great niece to Rayne, generations of breeding by my dear friend Lorie Boodry. But wait, this all keeps wrapping around to my past, to my best friend Lorie, to Lorie's original boxer and her daughter who is my original boxer. Our stud at Raynen Boxers is Bo, a grandson of Rayne! His dad was from my very first litter of boxer puppies. Rayne was bred to an outside stud in and produced an entire litter of male puppies. One of those boys sired Bo years later, and now here Bo is, standing next to his grandma with perfect health test results, ready to sire your next boxer. Along the way I've added a couple of outcross bloodlines from breeders I trusted and kept a puppy from Bo and Sunshine. My big boy Sailor is sired by a Croatian import, but all of my other Boxers are American. When I bred boxers years ago, I knew nothing about health testing. It's my goal to do better for my family and yours. After laying low and raising my own babies for a few years, I'm extremely excited to be raising puppies again, for you! All Rights Reserved. Created and maintained by Serenity Anderson. Boxer Photo Album About Chippewa Valley Boxers At Chippewa Valley Boxers, we consider ourselves to be family breeders who raise puppies for the joy it brings and as a wonderful experience for our families. Our boxers are part of our family; they live in our homes. When raising puppies we focus on lots of early handling and socialization. We carefully select the dogs we breed for temperament and confirmation. Our goal in breeding is to produce healthy, vibrant boxer puppies and to match them with loving families who will appreciate and love the breed as much as we do! Deborah Deborah has a passion for raising loving boxer puppies. Her husband and her 40 piano students and their families socialize them from four days of age after their first vet check until the new owners pick up their puppies. Deborah's love for the boxer breed began as a young child as one was always part of her family. She and her boxer's trainer who eventually achieved her life goal of showing our line at Westminster showed Dempsey in England for two years. See dedication picture of Dempsey in front of his ribbons. Once Deborah's four daughters were old enough to help, she raised her first litter. Thus, Deborah's passion for making new friends and raising dogs just like Dempsey began. Holly My husband and I have owned boxers since and have found them to be fantastic family dogs. We have three young children, and an even-tempered dog is essential! When looking for the perfect boxer, I met Deborah and bought my first puppy from her. Over time, I have come to know Deborah very well and appreciate her very much as a person. I learned so much from her. As a mentor, Deborah helped me raise my first litter of boxer puppies. My relationship with her has allowed me to learn more about responsibly raising boxer puppies and striving to better the breed. Contact Us.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Deer Creek Comfort Dogs Shaping future companions for families and those in need of comfort Our family has been raising puppies for over 20 years. Our children have always had a passion for dogs which began our journey and now our grandchildren enjoy growing up with our wonderful dogs by their side. Deer Creek provides emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, service and therapy prospects, canine good citizen dogs as well as family pets. Deer Creek assists our families with puppy selection to help ensure the families get the puppy that will work well with their needs. Someone once said, "Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative" and we hope you choose one of ours. If you are interested in finding your new family member, fill out our puppy application and we will be thrilled to work with you. We recognize that our dogs have the capability of changing peoples' lives on a therapeutic level. Many of our Doodles have become therapy dogs at funeral homes, children's advocacy centers, hospitals and nursing homes, and others have found homes as anxiety, PTSD and emotional support dogs. Learn more about our nonprofit organization Deer Creek Paw Prints at www. Learn More Molly, Rhys, and Beau! Life Span Did You Know? Second-generation crosses could include a Labradoodle and a Mini Poodle or two Mini Labradoodles as parents. This hybrid dog breed was originally developed to create smaller potential service dogs that might be a good fit for people with allergies to dog fur. With a mixed breed, you can end up with any combination of traits from the parent breeds. Often, Mini Labradoodles are smart, friendly, and sociable dogs that are highly trainable. They are often found working as service dogs and therapy dogs and living as beloved family companions. Although they are not recognized by the AKC, the Mini Labradoodle is recognized by other canine registries. A Mini Labradoodle is a combination of two friendly dog breeds that crave human affection and are always happy to have company. These dogs also tend to have playful, energetic personalities and low prey drives. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their smaller size, these dogs can be injured by accidental rough play or accidental falls, so any interactions between young kids and puppies should be closely supervised. Miniature Labradoodles will usually bark to alert you when someone is at the door, but generally are not prone to nuisance barking unless they have been trained into it. It may not be a bad idea to train your dog to stop barking early on. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles may be initially wary of strangers, but tend to warm up quickly and will often be happy to make a new friend. Miniature Labradoodles are highly adaptable. Provided they get enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, they can adapt well to apartments as well as larger homes. They tend to do best in moderate climates, but can tolerate warmer or colder climates. As with any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Although they tend to have a fluffier coat, they are also smaller and may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks in the cold. Mini Labradoodles are also very much companion breeds. They bond closely with their families and thrive on being near them, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The health of the parents and good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Mini Labradoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done to help allay any concerns you may have. Miniature Labradoodles tend to be highly intelligent and eager to please. This generally makes them easy to train and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. In fact, their parent breeds are considered some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. These dogs respond best to consistent training and positive reinforcement. Puppy training classes can ensure that owners of any experience level learn the latest training techniques and start building a strong bond with their puppy. Grooming requirements with a Mini Labradoodle can vary. On the Poodle side, you have a low-shedding, but high-maintenance, coat that needs daily brushing along with trimming and grooming every weeks. On the Lab side, you have a higher shedding coat that is more low-maintenance, requiring some weekly brushing or brushing a few times a week and intermittent bathing. Overall, Mini Labradoodles range from having a non- to low-shedding coat. They can have one coat type or the other, or a combination of both of them. So, you will want to be prepared for brushing a coat a few times a week and the possibility of more grooming needs. Regardless of coat type, there are some other general grooming tasks you can count on. Regular dental care for your dog will help prevent serious dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay later in life. This is especially important for dog breeds with floppy ears as they are more prone to developing ear infections. Miniature Labradoodles can be high-energy dogs. In general, they require daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. Since they love to be around their family and can have an exuberant and outgoing personality, they will likely be up for more playtime if you are. This little dog may get tired more easily at times and could push themselves too far in their excitement. On the other hand, they may just keep going and going with no signs of slowing down. What is most important is making sure your Miniature Labradoodle gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Fully-grown Mini Labradoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Miniature Labradoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Labradoodle Article.

Insufficient relaxation or sleep time Other animals harassing your dog Lack of positive attention from you Inconsistent or unclear behavior rules taught by you Insufficient physical or mental exercise You give incorrect attention during arousal behaviors You can correct the lack of exercise through a balanced German Shepherd exercise routine for health. Boredom, due to lack of mental stimulation, is also correctable. Read this guide on using mental stimulation exercises for German Shepherds to improve their behavior. Motherhood, hypothyroidism, and physical pain all contribute to stress and hostile episodes. While motherhood passes, other medical conditions need treatment. Talk to your vet before trying to address aggression on your own as an underlying medical condition may exist. Triggers are immediate actions or behaviors that increase or begin the act of aggression in your dog. Determine what sets off your dog by watching their body language signs listed above and noting their environment. This requires identifying the trigger, eliminating any stressors, and creating a training modification program that is consistent to meet your GSDs end goals. Use the stress list, found above, to help you figure out stressors that you can control. Track what things cause your dog to react hostile. Use Safety Precautions to Prevent Injury Try a control management tool such as a muzzle or headcollar to regain control when out in public. Gentle Head Collar This control tool provides gentle corrections and prevents jumping, lunging, and pulling. It does, however, provide better safety and control. If you need more confidence in handling your aggressive German Shepherd, then place the head collar on them before going outside. Aggression Treatment To have the best chance of success with training an aggressive German Shepherd, use the entire treatment protocol listed below. Using all the steps of treatment gives you and your dog more positive results. The following chart provides the training step and the action to help lessen aggressive behavior. The program can take many months depending on what issues your dog exhibits and how deep those issues are. Instead, take an approach that touches on all of the daily life skills. In a nutshell, the NILIF technique means that for everything your dog wants in life they must perform a command that you give them. You can make yourself more predictable to your dog by teaching them that rewards only come when he asks nicely with a calm behavior, like a sit. Your dog earns all rewards such as food, treats, praise, and affection by giving you the behavior you want. Most importantly… Teach your dog the basic obedience skills to reinforce your expectations and use this obedience training in your daily routines. Instead, use positive reinforcement that promotes and rewards desired behaviors. Here are some problems and solutions to help prevent your German Shepherd from becoming aggressive. Rather than think your German Shepherd has simply become aggressive, look for the areas of their life that tend to upset her. German Shepherd Aggression Prevention There are many reasons you must consider when wondering why your German Shepherd is becoming aggressive. Use a complete training regimen to ensure success. Aggressive German Shepherds are a potential threat and a safety hazard. Safety is your priority. Both for you and your dog. Your patience and persistence help your GSD become a success story! The correct thing to do is to make sure your dog is kept away from harming any person or animal. Please share this to help others! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Food aggression causes dogs to exhibit behavior of being protective over their food. It can become an issue for a couple reasons: those living with the dog could be at risk of being bitten, and it could lead to your pup becoming possessive in other areas of its life. There are ways to treat food aggression in dogs by properly training your pup and managing their behavior. You can also take steps to prevent it entirely. Read on to find out more. What Is Food Aggression? Food aggression is a territorial reaction a dog experiences when eating meals or treats, in which they use hostile behavior to guard their food. Food aggression is quite common in dogs. One study reported that nearly 20 percent of all dogs show signs of food aggression. This aggression is a form of resource guarding - a behavior passed down through evolution, when dogs needed to protect every meal or resource they had. Resource guarding differs slightly though - it describes a behavior that is defensive of any object they consider to be of high value, not just their food. Typically, dogs only guard what they consider valuable. Because of this, the resources they guard can vary - though a very common one is food. This could be food in their bowls, food that has been dropped on the floor during mealtimes, scraps in the garbage bin or even food being prepped on the counter. This defensive behavior can be an issue if a food-aggressive dog lives in a home with children. Children, especially younger ones, have a harder time recognizing the signals of guarding and may disregard them completely. This could potentially lead to a child being growled at or bitten. However, here are a few common reasons: It can be learned in puppyhood - either by accidental training practices or by needing to compete over limited resources in a shelter environment. Dogs can also develop food aggression later in life as well. Trauma can be a massive trigger - something like losing a caretaker, physical abuse or neglect, natural disasters or fighting with another dog can bring on symptoms of food aggression. They become more protective over their resources.Some breeds are genetically predisposed to dominant or aggressive tendencies, and may guard food due to a pack-like mentality. Dogs like English Springer Spaniels, German Shepherds or Rottweilers are well-known for having hereditary guarding instincts - though these instincts typically apply to livestock or property. While there can be a number of causes for food aggression in dogs, those that spent time in a shelter may be at higher risk to experience this resource guarding tendency due to competition for the available resources like beds, treats, potential mates or food. Signs of Aggression There are several identifying signs of food aggression that are categorized in three degrees of harmfulness: Mild, moderate and severe. The mild degree of food aggression is best recognized by verbal signs. Your dog may growl when you approach their food, or them while they are eating. It may also bare its teeth or raise their hackles in warning. A moderate degree of food aggression is characterized by a dog snapping or lunging when a person or other dog approaches them. Severe food aggression can be dangerous to people or other pets, as the dog will bite or chase the perceived threat away. First things first, consider spaying or neutering your dog. Hormones can be the cause of aggression, and spaying or neutering may help reduce these tendencies. Another treatment option is training: many dogs that have food aggression can be put through a training sequence , laid out in seven stages, focusing on desensitization and counterconditioning to put your dog more at ease with eating near people. Stage One: Get your dog used to your presence when eating This step focuses on acquainting your dog with your presence when they are eating meals or treats. Stand back from your dog by a few feet while they eat food from a bowl on the floor. The goal is to have your dog eating in a relaxed manner for ten or more meals in a row before moving on to the next stage in this training method. Stage Two: Add a tasty treat, then step back Build off the first step by adding a tasty treat to their bowl, and immediately stepping back to your original distance after placing the treat. Consistency is key here. Each day, have a goal of moving forward one step. If you are able to stand two feet away after placing a treat for ten meals in a row, your dog is ready to move on to the next step. Stage Three: Stand close, and talk to your dog This step focuses on close proximity and conversation. While your dog is eating from their bowl, stand next to them and give them a special treat. Turn and walk away from your pup after giving them the treat. Repeat this process every few seconds. If your dog can remain relaxed while eating for ten or more meals in a row, you can move on to the next stage of this training process. Stage Four: Try hand feeding Hand feeding is a large part of this stage. It is important for your dog to understand that you are not posing a threat to their food when they eat. Approach your pup, speaking to them in a conversational tone - similarly to the last stage. Stand next to their bowl, holding a hand out with a treat to your dog. Instead of placing the treat in their bowl, encourage your dog to take the treat out of your hand. After they take the treat, turn and walk away to encourage the understanding that you are not interested in their food. Each day, try and bend down further, until your hand is right next to their bowl as your dog takes the treat. After ten meals in a relaxed manner, the next step can be made. Stage Five: Touch their bowl, but do not take food from it This stage is similar to the last, except this time, stay near your dog after they take the treat from you. Speak to them in a casual tone, and offer the treat with one hand. With the other, touch their bowl - but do not take food from it. This will help your dog become accustomed to your close presence during mealtimes. If your dog remains relaxed while eating for ten or more meals in a row, move on to the next phase of training. In a calm tone, speak to your dog as you pick their bowl up. Only lift it inches from the ground to begin with, add the treat and set the bowl back down. This will establish trust between you and your dog, and they should become fully comfortable eating around you by the end of this step. Stage Seven: Repeat this feeding process with the other family members The final step is to repeat steps with every family member in your house. As your dog begins to trust the people in your household around their food, their food aggression should wane or cease to exist entirely. Note: While your pup may be comfortable eating around you, they may not be around other family members or guests that visit your home. In this case, try creating a safe environment for your pup to eat. This includes separate bowls for each pet, separating them at mealtimes, or providing a gated area for your pup to enjoy their food. Your dog is a hungry one, and usually just wants to feel comfortable when enjoying a meal. If your efforts are not working, you can always consult your vet or a local trainer for advice on food aggression treatment. Sometimes a consistent feeding routine is all you need. Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest When a dog shows aggression to protect his food, it can be a serious issue. Not only is there the danger of other dogs or humans in the house being bitten, but over time it can lead to the dog becoming possessive over everything. What is Food Aggression? Food aggression is a form of resource guarding in which a dog becomes very defensive when eating, using threats to force others away. It can be directed towards other animals, humans, or both. The behavior can also extend to treats. There are three degrees of food aggression: Mild: the dog growls and may show its teeth. Moderate: the dog snaps or lunges when approached. Severe: the dog bites. For an alpha dog , showing food aggression is a form of dominance, but for dogs with a lower pack position, it can be a sign of anxiety or fearfulness. How to Recognize Food Aggression When a dog is eating, his body will stiffen and he may keep his head down. A dog may show any or all of these signs. Finally, there are the above mentioned signs of the severity of the problem: growling, lunging, or biting. Is she only showing possessiveness over food, or does the behavior extend to other things, like favorite toys, resting spots, or even people in the pack? If he is naturally a dominant dog, then you will need to assert yourself as the Pack Leader in a calm and assertive way. On the other hand, if he is timid or fearful, you will need to build up his confidence and teach him that his food is safe with humans around. For severe cases, start off by consulting a professional until you can get the dog down to a moderate level. Here are some of the techniques to use. Mealtime should be no different. Be regular in feeding to take away the anxiety. Always feed your dog after the walk, never before. Also, exercising a dog after he eats can be dangerous, even leading to life-threatening conditions like bloat. Never feed your dog before or while the humans are eating. This will reinforce your status as the Pack Leader. However, you can recondition the dog until she learns that she wins when she lets you come near her while eating. The goal here is to get your dog to stop eating their food to take the treat from you. This teaches your dog several things. One is that no one is going to steal his food if he looks away from it. The other is that removing his attention from his food when people come around leads to a reward. In rehabilitating a food aggressive dog, two things are happening. There are many other techniques you can use to reduce food aggression or to prevent it from happening in the first place. The key, as always, is to be calm, assertive, and consistent. Have you established a feeding ritual for your dog? Why Do German Shepherds Growl? A German Shepherd is a very good communicator and will show you that he is not interested in sharing his food with you. When a German Shepherd shows aggression towards us in relation to his food or treats, he will sometimes offer low-level stress signs first, but sometimes, depending on the severity, he will go straight to growling, snapping, lunging, and even biting. When a German Shepherd shows food aggression, considering their size and abilities, we risk serious injury. German Shepherds may begin to show signs of food aggression as early as during the first few weeks of age. If a litter is large, sometimes there is a puppy or two that misses out on meals often and these puppies may feel the need to fight to get access to their food. If your adult dog is showing signs of food aggression, he may have learned that food does not come easily, and he needs to fight to keep it once he has possession of it. German Shepherd dogs can become more food aggressive with age, if the behavior is not dealt with appropriately when younger or if the dog is experiencing any kind of pain, discomfort or cognitive difficulties such as canine dementia, which can be associated with an aging German Shepherd Dog. There are many possible triggers for a German Shepherd to become aggressive when he has possession of food: He has been struggling to keep food in his possession, so someone entering his space can be determined as a threat. People coming predicts the loss of that resource He has learned that people will leave him alone if he shows his teeth He is hungry and his nutritional needs are not being met He is not feeling well and when he eats, it makes him feel worse He is on medication a steroid like prednisone for example which has increased appetite as a side effect and his current diet is not satiating his hunger He is on a medication that causes some kind of discomfort Can German Shepherd Food Aggression Be Corrected? German Shepherd food aggression can be corrected. First, you should get to know canine body language and stress signs, ensuring that the environment is set up for success and safety for both your dog and you. Second, you and your family can use positive reinforcement training methods to ensure that your GSD feels safe enough to communicate in those stressful times. The resource guarding behavior that results in aggression needs to first be managed, then carefully broken down into small steps of what NOT to do and what TO do instead. And we will get into that later in this article. With complex behaviors like food aggression, there is a significant emotional component involved. That said, below are a few tips to prevent food aggression from your Gerrman Sheperd: Become fluent in canine body language to prevent your GSD from having to escalate in order to retain access to his food. An adult German Shepherd, on average, requires — calories per day depending on activity level and age. If they guard their food bowl, claim it as yours. Be the boss. Be the alpha…. There are several things that we can do to help our GSDs from becoming food aggressive. What TO Do 1 Respect the growl: German Shepherds cannot speak English to tell us that they are uncomfortable, so they use canine body language and stress signs to do that — the growl being one of the most important, the most misunderstood, and the most punished. If a GSD learns that growling results in punishment, he will resort to biting first, instead. Learn to respect the growl as a request for space or a signal that something is making him uncomfortable. Practice walking by his bowl and tossing a few pieces in at a time, getting closer and closer each time depending on what his body language is telling you. Make dinner time fun! Talk to him and tell him how great he is! There are some things that we do to inadvertently create food aggression in our GSDs. We lose our warning. Without that warning, we risk a bite. This is what happens after an animal has experienced aversive stimulation of any kind. German Shepherds are sentient beings with cognitive abilities and social-emotional needs similar to that of a pre-verbal child…a furry toddler just looking to us for guidance. Conclusion The German Shepherd Dog is a strong, intelligent, and driven breed, that puts incredible effort into everything that he does. When he feels safe, he is able to make peaceful choices but when he feels threatened or intimidated, especially while in the presence of his most valuable resource food , the situation can change from friendly to aggressive, quickly. GSDs are not genetically food aggressive. Resource guarding of high-value items such as food is typically a learned behavior and can be modified by simple management and consistent training. A GSD is a working breed that prefers consistency and clear expectations. Is Dog Food Aggression Bad? Any kind of aggressive behavior that a GSD exhibit is not only emotionally difficult for them, but for us as well. We trust that we can feed our German Shepherd without being growled at or bitten, so when that happens, we risk both physical injury and emotional distress. Sheila Gunston, Dip. Sheila specializes in aggression and other complex behaviors. Post navigation. Same question here. He was making no progress. Turned out the 'training' method was to turn the water hose on the dog in his kennel! All the dog had learned was that he better be aware of this guy 'cause he did these nasty things to him. So much for 'GSD savvy trainers', they may not be savvy when it comes to working with resource guarding. With resource guarding, what I look for when I evaluate a dog is the extent of it, both in terms of the object guarded and the severity of the reaction. Is it the full food bowl only? Or the area around the food bowl, too? Or the whole room? How about the empty food bowl? Any other objects? What is the dog's guarding behavior? A growl, air snap, nip, bite, rip? And if there is an owner, look at their relationship. Feel free to pm me for trainer suggestions in MA. Young Mr Fiance should understand that is NOT an emotional rejection by the dog, the dog is just acting like a canine. Domestication has reduced RG in dogs but it is part of the behavioral repertoire of canis lupus familiaris. The behavior can be modified, especially if the dog's guarding is limited and predictable. Even managed if it is limited. But if an owner's ego gets in the way, I agree that the dog might be better off elsewhere. Btw, Schutzhund trainers rarely have the expertise to do behavioral rehab for problem behaviors. They have different skills.

Front and back Long lines are best attached from the back The back-attachment point is ideal for long lines. Attaching it to the front risks the entangling of the front legs. A front and back harness gives maximum flexibility. Double ended Two leash attachment points Using a back-attachment point lets you use a double-ended leash. A single-ended leash can tighten the harness when only attached to the front. Different harnesses have variable tightness degrees. One with front and back attachment reduces gaping by balancing tension. Clipping the leash attachments at two points sounds too much, but it is best. Optimal control comes from a properly fitted dog harness. Handling large pets become effortless. Material Material quality is the first factor. Nylon, polyester, and breathable hybrid materials are a few options. The harness must not put much pressure on the neck and throat. The pull should be evenly distributed throughout the chest and body. Look for a harness guaranteeing sturdiness and comfort. Strength A 6 month old lab can also drag you in public. Labradors are naturally inclined to swim, play and have high energy. Labs are famous military dogs. Dogs without no-pull training can be challenging to maintain in long walks. A harness with extra padding provides the required strength. Look for safety features, reliable buckles, and quality stitching only. Size Labradors are medium-sized dogs that mature at six months. But they grow after maturity too. A harness with an adjustable strap is handy. A labrador retriever continues to grow for two years. Opt for a flexible harness that can be adjusted. Adjustability Adjustability is a vital consideration for young pups. Adjustable harnesses fit any body type or size. Ensure the clips are adjustable and well-built. A strong and popular breed like a labrador can break cheap clips. Comfort Double padding is a must for both young and old dogs. A soft harness is comfortable and prevents injuries. Some are only made for running and keep your dog in great shape. Safety Safety features like reflective material is a must-have. It increases dog visibility during early morning or night walks. Labrador retrievers who are likely to escape are more secure with such features. Some come with attached handles for more security. It is easier to grab your pet if they take off. Harnesses with seat belt features are also becoming popular. Durability Durability becomes vital if you buy a harness for the lab puppy. Always pick harnesses with a higher durability rating. An extremely durable dog harness will last from puppyhood to adulthood. Go for fully adjustable ones for the best results. Cost Budget is essential but comes second to quality. Buying cheaper products will make you spend again. Though cheap pet products are pocket-friendly, they lack quality. Get a good harness instead of going for cheap ones. Soft vests are best for puppies and older labradors. A front, rear, or dual clip harness is great for adult labs. From dual clip to step-in harnesses, there are several. Labrador Vest Harness These are basic walk harnesses. They are simple, lightweight, and inexpensive and made of mesh, plastic, or nylon. Dog owners with well-behaved dogs on leashes can get these. But the front and back clip harness can be attached at all the points. A double-ended leash is required for the front clip attachment. One point is attached at the front and another at the back. It provides more control over your escape artist. A no-pull dog harness minimizes the pup pulls without hurting them. Tactical Dog Harnesses These are popular for training, trekking, and hunting. Besides labs, it is ideal for other dog breeds, like German Shepherds. Military and service dogs wear tactical harnesses often. Tightening and Control Harness These harnesses are more aggressive than standard ones. They will tighten when your dog pulls. Dog chests can be squeezed on tightening. Experienced trainers and dog handlers use them best. Not sure which chest piece is right for your dog? Our list comprises of the 10 best harnesses for labradors. They are made from sturdy material and have the necessary safety features. Now lets look at all the harnesses one by one. A good labrador harness requires time, effort, and patience to buy. Avoid cheap harnesses that can snap, fall apart, or break. Ensure the chest piece fits well and is not tight. The dog must move with ease wearing the harness. The no-pull harness alone is not enough. Train your labrador retriever for adequate results. Measure the neck and the chest for an accurate fit. Add two inches to the chest measurement in case your lab gains weight. Check the tightness after fastening the clips and buckles. Your two fingers must fit to ensure it is comfortable. If not, then it is too tight. But a harness is comfortable and makes training straightforward. Lab puppies may bite the leash too much initially. However, showing patience will go a long way. Here are a few tips to acclimatize dogs:- Positive reinforcement training is best to accustom your lab. Giving them treats or toys when they follow commands is beneficial. Start slow and small. Place the harness on the floor and let them explore. Let the dog get used to the buckles and leash. You can treat them for being brave and sniffing. Put on the harness if you see progress. Let the dog walk around wearing the harness. Even if it is for a few minutes, treat them. Start with small neighborhood strolls if the dog is confident. Increase the walk durations gradually for smoothness. Irrespective of their style, you need the best harnesses for effective energy management. These athletic dogs are up for everything from trekking to hunting. You need a high-quality harness for your lively pooch. The best harnesses for labradors are:- RabbitGoo is best if you want to control your large lab easily. Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart is for labradors having frequent car rides. Eagloo dog harness provides maximum comfort with its breathable material. Each harness offers unique features and benefits. The final call comes down to your requirements. Harnesses are better suited for walking dogs. Collars are more comfortable and hold the ID. Vets suggest using a harness for many dogs with breathing issues. Should a Labrador wear a harness? Labradors are athletic and sturdy. Having a harness makes them easier to manage. Be it walks, hikes, or treks, they are secured. What size harness for lab puppy is best? You will need at least a 9-inch long collar for a lab puppy. Most labrador retrievers fit into the large harness category. For accuracy, take labrador measurements. How do I stop my Labrador from pulling on the leash? Starting leash training with a harness early is suggested. Teach them self-control and practice attention. Treat them when the position is correct. Do not let pulling reinforce. Should I use a collar or harness for my Lab? Dog Harnesses are considered humane for pets. They give more control than collars. Different harness types also make it easier to choose for your lab pup. What size harness for 8 week lab puppy? The size range for a small harness for an 8-week-old Labrador puppy is: Chest: inches. They are friendly, playful, eager to please, and make great family dogs. While today most Labs are known for their ability to play fetch in the backyard for hours, labradors are a sporting breed with working roots in Canada and Britain. Modern Labradors are descendants of the now-extinct St. According to the AKC, the breed standard for Labradors is their height is between .Males generally weigh between 65 and 80 pounds, and females between 55 and 70 pounds. Of course, some labs will be larger or smaller than the breed standard. Energy Level and Exercise Requirements Labrador Retrievers are an enthusiastic breed with a high energy level. They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. In addition to frequent walks daily, Labs should also get plenty of exercise like swimming and playing fetch. Because of their history as working dogs with a sturdy build, Labrador Retrievers are a strong breed that requires proper training with the right tools. For most Lab owners, the best and safest way to walk their dog is with a harness. What is the Best Harness for a Lab? For a strong and energetic breed like the Labrador Retriever, the best harness for Labrador Retrievers is one that is comfortable for both you and your pooch. Labs have a stocky build, so you want a fully adjustable harness that will give you a proper fit, making the harness escape-proof. You also want a harness that will help prevent pulling, which will help keep you safe and comfortable while walking your dog. At Joyride Harness, we created our harness with Labs in mind. Our harness has a three-ring design meant to prevent pulling. You can attach a standard leash to one of the side rings to stop your Lab from pulling forward. You can also use a double-ended leash attached to two rings to give you even further control. The other benefit of Joyride Harness for strong, energetic Labradors is our built-in handle. When you choose a handle dog harness for your Lab, it gives you the option to quickly grab your dog, even if you accidentally drop the leash! And the best part? If you have trouble keeping your loveable Lab out of the water and mud, our heavy-duty harnesses are durable and easy to wash! Most adult Labs will fit in our XL dog harness, which is suitable for dogs between 60 and 85 pounds. Most customers choose this size as the best harness for their Labradors. However, larger Labs may find the XXL a better fit. For smaller Labs and puppies still growing, you can utilize our size chart to find the best harness to fit them at their current size. Here are reviews from real pet parents who love Joyride Harness for their Labrador Retrievers! I love how easy the harnesses fit on our pups a Labrador and a Golden Retriever. Perfect harness for my Labrador Bear is still a puppy and loves going for his daily walk. The harness is easy on and off and prevents collar pulling. My labrador Absolutely Awesome no pulling every now and he forgets he has it on then he will stop right away. I highly recommend this harness. Thank you for saving my arm from falling off. Have tried several different harnesses over the years for my dogs and they always seem to be a struggle. We often see the vet's office and the folks at doggy day camp struggle with the harnesses as well. We purchased for our Labrador retriever puppy before we brought her home and introduced her to the harness before she was 9 weeks old. Have already purchased two more sizes for her, as Lab puppies grow pretty quickly in the first several months of their life. Incredibly easy to hook the leash on two and several of our friends have already asked us where we purchased the harness. Also a must have if you are going to use doggy seatbelts in your car. Highly recommend! Joyride has the best harness to offer. There are similar brands, however, they are not made as well or not as comfortable for the pet. Gaston and his sister, Sadie, also enjoy wearing these vests versus the choker collar they were wearing. They are both very energetic strong Labradors and these harnesses offer a much safer solution for my friend when walking her pets. Thank you Joyride!! Learn more about what we do to help our local furry friends by clicking Learn More below. Learn more about what we do to help our local furry friends here. Here is your Coupon code : W.There is therefore no risk of the harness rubbing behind the legs. There are no martingale attachments anywhere on this harness, so there is nothing to tighten anywhere when the dog pulls. The Balance harness has both front-and-back attachment points. Just like all front-and-back attachment harnesses, this gives you great flexibility. The harness is really good quality and the metalware is likewise. This means that dogs that dislike having something placed over their heads, can have the Balance put around their neck in a similar way to a snap-up collar. Any gaping really is very minimal when both attachment-points are used, even less than on the Freedom. It is essentially always a black harness, but the vertical strap on the back comes in different colors. If you have multiple dogs, the colored back strap is sufficient for telling you which harness belongs to which dog. But if you are someone who loves different colored harnesses, the Balance may not suit — check out the Freedom. According to the manufacturer, you can attach just to the front-attachment point. But the Balance works best when used in conjunction with a double-fastening leash. So you will need to purchase one separately. The Balance harness does tend to rotate slightly when in use. The neck and girth straps slightly pull the colored back strap off vertical. If this troubles you, check out the Perfect Fit below. Similarly, it would be really hard for even a seasoned escapologist to back out of a Perfect Fit harness. For a growing Labrador puppy, it is possible just to purchase and replace one piece of the three needed for a harness. Should the chewing-machine that is your Labrador puppy, succeed in chewing through the front of the harness, again, just that part would need to be replaced. The Perfect Fit also has a 40mm thick option. This is a very comfortable and stylish-looking harness for large or strong Labradors. The Perfect Fit harness has both front-and-back attachment points, just like the Freedom and Balance, giving the same flexibility. It is safe to be left on the dog when running off-leash. The harness is webbing, backed by soft fleece. This makes for a really comfortable and soft harness, for your Labrador. This means that dogs which dislike having something placed over their heads, can have the Perfect Fit put around their neck. The front-attachment is a large metal D-ring. My plan is to wrap the metal D-ring in duck tape, to silence it. You will need to purchase one of those separately. I anticipate this getting worse with the next few washes. This does not affect the comfort or function of the harness, obviously. Labs love to swim, and have been known to roll in stinky things! Ordering Issues? Lastly, I should say that I had heard about the Perfect Fit harness for about a year before I finally bought one to trial. Selecting three different-sized component parts for a harness and choosing a width of strap is a much more involved process than choosing one size. The Dog-Games website has become a lot easier now, with breed recommendations, but some buyers might still find it confusing. And my top three picks of front-and-back fastening harnesses for Labrador Retrievers are:.

So, what is a Labrador Terrier Mix? A Labrador Terrier Mix is a designer dog breed that is a result of crossing a purebred Labrador with one of the Terrier breeds. Since the Lab and the Terrier are two very different breeds with very different traits, it is important to know what to expect with this breed before you decide to get one. This article will cover all the information you need to know about the Lab Terrier Mix, including their health, lifespan, and how to take care of these Mixes. With such diversity, it is difficult to predict how big a Lab Terrier Mix puppy will get. The size of a full-grown Lab Terrier Mix will depend on the size of the Terrier that was crossbred with a Lab. For instance, mixes between the Lab and the American Pitbull Terrier can get as tall as 24 inches and weigh as much as 90 lbs. Others, like the mix between a Lab and the miniature Rat Terrier are a lot smaller in size, weighing about 10 to 15 lbs and with a height of about 10 to 13 inches. Appearance As it is with size, the appearance of the Lab Terrier Mix is highly dependent on the specific Terrier breed that was used to produce the Mix. Coat Whilst the Lab comes in three main colors — black, yellow, and chocolate — Terriers will come in a wide variety of colors. This means your Lab Terrier Mix puppy can take on any color, depending on the colors of the Terrier parent. For instance, American Staffordshire Lab Mixes can be brown, black, or brindle, while American Pitbull Lab Mixes can be brown, black, white, tan, yellow, or brindle. Image from Instagram: louis2therescue Lifespan The life expectancy of Labs is about .Without suffering from any health conditions, a Lab Terrier Mix will live for 10 to 14 years. A few will even make it beyond 14 years. Some of the common health problems that affect Lab Terrier Mixes include: Allergies Most types of Terriers are very susceptible to allergies. Dog allergies usually affect the respiratory system, the skin, and the digestive system. With this condition being common among Terries, there is a possibility that the condition could get passed on to your Lab Terrier Mix as well. Left untreated, conditions like PRA can eventually lead to blindness. Joint Problems Labradors are also at a high risk of developing joint problems, such as patellar luxation and hip and elbow dysplasia, which could also affect your Lab Terrier Mix. The condition is very common to Labs, leading to swollen joints and lameness, both of which will put your Lab Terrier Mix at risk. Fortunately, many of these conditions can be prevented by having the parents screened prior to breeding. Lab Terrier Mixes require a protein rich diet for proper muscle growth, since they are typically active dogs. This food is highly nutritious, with lots of protein, and conforms to human-grade safety standards. When feeding your Lab Terrier Mix, you should stick to manufacturer-recommended portions to avoid the risk of overfeeding your canine buddy, which can lead to obesity. Exercise Labs are very active due to their working dog origins, while Terriers are generally feisty dogs. When you combine the two, you get a very energetic dog that requires lots of exercise. Most Lab Terrier Mixes will be okay with an hour of exercise every day. If possible, engage your four-legged buddy in physically intense exercises, such as playing fetch or going on hikes, rather than a leisurely walk on the beach. Vet Visits Even with a proper diet and lots of exercise, it is still advisable to visit the vet regularly for checkups. This way, potential health concerns will be detected early enough and treated before they become actual problems. Your vet will also provide you with additional tips to help you take the best care of your furry buddy. Temperaments Of Labrador Terrier Mixes A post shared by Shaina Spasari shainaspasa Before bringing a new pet home, it is good to know its temperament and personality. This will help you determine whether they will make a good companion for you and helps you provide them with the kind of care they need. Temperament Most Lab Terrier Mixes are very loyal and loving. This can be attributed to the Lab genes in the mix since Labs are well known for their affection. Their Terrier ancestry can also make them protective, which means the majority of Lab Terrier Mixes will make good guard dogs. Actually, their highly energetic nature makes them good playmates for kids since kids are equally energetic. However, you should always make sure that all playtime between the doggie and your kids is supervised by an adult. Energetic Lab Terrier Mixes have a lot of energy and will require lots of physical activity. This is not the kind of dog that you can leave it indoors all day long. Their physical requirements mean that Lab Terrier Mixes will be most comfortable in homes with a yard where they can run around without restrictions. It is still possible to keep a Labrador Terrier Mix even if you live in an apartment, provided you are an active person who loves the outdoors. Do Lab Terrier Mixes Shed? The moderate to excessive shedding means that your Lab Terrier Mix will need daily brushing sessions. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. When you have a shedding dog in your house, it is totally normal to have dog hair all over the house, which is why you need a vacuum. A bath every quarter is enough unless your dear Fido has really dirtied themselves while playing outside. Not only does this shampoo not contain harsh chemicals, but it also has a patented Pharmasome technology that will keep your four-legged buddy smelling fresh for longer. Professionally formulated mild yet effective soap-free formula is ideal for.Many pets right after a bath they try to find a.Labradors will get along well with Terriers, especially if they have been raised together or if both dogs were socialized from an early age. Both the Lab and most Terriers have very high energy levels, which makes them compatible. Some Terriers, such as the Kerry Blue Terrier, are great swimmers, while others. When Terriers are mixed with swimming dogs like the Lab, they will be great swimmers as well. Most Terrier Mixes are loving and playful and will make good family dogs. There are some, however, that can get aggressive, which makes them unsuitable for families. Bull Terrier Staffordshire Terrier Most of them have ancestry that traces back to the United Kingdom where they were typically used in the herding of livestock and to control vermin populations. Some can weigh as little as 3 pounds 1. Regardless of how small or big they are, Terriers are spirited dogs with bold personalities and fearless natures. They also tend to love barking, digging, and playing. Just like any dog who gets early and proper training, they can be a great addition to any household. Popular Lab Terrier mixes There are about 30 Terrier breeds out there, the possibilities for creating a Lab Terrier mix are also endless! Despite their size — 13 to 18 inches 33 to 46 cm in height and 10 to 25 pounds 4. They love to please their person so they should never be left alone. You can find them in shades of black, red, apricot, blue, and tan, sometimes, with a combination of white. Although small Jack Russells are known for their high-energy levels. These quick and determined dogs will keep you playing all day! These dogs require assured owners who know how to socialize them properly, especially around children and strangers. These intelligent and self-assured dogs are used in search and rescue and are known to also excel at dog sports and agility. They typically stand between 17 and 19 inches 43 and 48 cm tall and have a short, easy-to-maintain coat. During their 12 to year lifespan, there are a few health issues you need to be aware of including skin allergies, heart disease, and hip dysplasia. Lab Bull Terrier mix The Bull Terrier is a medium to large-sized breed standing at 21 to 22 inches 53 to 58 cm in height and weighing between 50 and 70 pounds 22 and 32 kg. They have a short low-maintenance coat that comes in a variety of colors. Typically living between 12 and 13 years, health concerns with this breed include patella luxation, heart murmurs, and congenital deafness. This is a lively breed that is loyal to its humans but is often not great with other dogs. They need lots of stimulation, management, and training in order to avoid unwanted and destructive behaviors. This breed has a lifespan of around 12 to 14 years. These dogs have a short low-maintenance coat and they come in a range that includes around fourteen different colors. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a lively breed that will require a lot of exercises. They do have a stubborn streak so training may need an issue but if socialized early they can be great family companions. A mix of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier and a Labrador Retriever will likely look very similar to a Labrador but slightly shorter and stockier. These relatively healthy dogs have a lifespan of between 12 and 15 years, although they are known to be prone to allergies. They have a wiry short coat that is typical of terriers and come in a dual-color including blue and tan or tan and grizzle. These cheerful dogs have a good work ethic and need lots of exercises. They are okay as a family companion as they tend to get along with children but they are not so great with other pets. Lab Fox Terrier mix There are two types of Fox Terriers with head shape and coat being the main difference between the two breeds. Both types of Fox Terriers are of medium size with an average height of 15 inches 38 cm. Smooth Fox Terriers have, as their name suggests smooth thick fur and a wedge-shaped head. Their smooth, dense coasts shed very little and they will need to be brushed only occasionally. On the other hand, Wire Fox Terriers have a dense coat like coconut matting, which has a wave or crinkle to it. These dogs will need their hair stripped, or plucked, regularly at a parlor. What does a Lab Terrier mix look like? While the look of a Lab Terrier mix can vary greatly, this crossbreed will typically have a short, stocky body with straight strong legs, an elongated muzzle, a medium-length droopy tail. Their head will be in good proportion to their body with a black nose, brown expressive eyes, and a smiley quizzical expression. Their ears will either be short, erect and folded like the Terrier or floppy and pendant shaped like the Labrador Retriever. How big do Lab Terrier mixes get? An average-sized dog, the Lab Terrier mix will typically be smaller than a Lab but bigger than the Terrier parent breed. A mal Lab Terrier mix will be bigger and heavier than its female counterpart. You can expect male Terrier Lab mixes to weigh between 27 and 50 pounds 12 and 22 kg with females coming in at around 20 to 45 pounds 9 and 20 kg. A male dog will stand between 13 to 17 inches 33 and 43cm tall with a female being between 13 and 15 inches 33 and 38cm tall. Coat of the Labrador Terrier The coat of the Lab Terrier mix will normally be of a medium length, straight, and very dense. The coat can come in a variety of colors including solid black, brown, or white, or a combination of these colors. Their playful and happy demeanor will make them a great companion for children. That said, this intelligent breed is easy to train. They can easily read your mood and will listen intently to instructions, although they may not always obey. As a result, they need a firm pack leader who is prepared to train them from a young age and keep training varied to prevent boredom from setting in. However, they do enjoy the attention that comes with training and will respond well to treats and positive reinforcement. If trained and socialized properly the Lab Terrier mix will be a friendly social dog that takes well to children, other pets, and strangers. That said, one thing to be aware of with a Terrier Labrador mix is climate as these dogs will not do well in extreme cold or heat. Exercising a Lab Terrier mix As both parent breeds of the Lab Terrier mix are extremely active, this dog needs to be exercised daily. A half an hour walk every day, as well as a variety of games at home, will keep this breed happy and healthy. Games can include fetch, hide, and seek and tug of war. This breed will also enjoy visits to the park and doggy daycare and may enjoy swimming, thanks to the Labrador Retriever parent. If given the required exercise this breed needs on a daily basis they can adapt well to a range of home environments, even apartment living. Feeding your Terrier Lab mix Although highly active, you still need to be stick with feeding this breed only the required amount based on their height and weight. This breed will love eating and the Lab parent makes them at high risk for obesity. Stick to the best quality dry dog food to avoid your dog putting on extra weight while still providing them the nutrients they need. Will a Lab Terrier mix shed? It is difficult to tell if your Lab Terrier mix will shed as the parent breeds are so vastly different in this regard but typically this crossbreed will be a moderate to excessive shedder. As a result, this breed is not hypoallergenic and is not recommended for an owner with allergies. You will likely need to brush your dog once a week with a firm bristled brush. You can also wipe them down with a damp cloth to make their coat shiny while checking their ears for any debris and dirt build-up. Also, be sure to brush their teeth from a young age. How long does the Lab Terrier mix live? The life expectancy of this hybrid dog breed is between 10 to 15 years. While typically healthy, if not given the required exercise, obesity, and a number of more complex health issues can set in. These include mobility issues such as Intervertebral Disc Disease which affects the spine, Hip Dysplasia which can lead to arthritis, and Patellar Luxation which causes knee joint discomfort. Due to the Labrador Retriever parent, this mixed breed can also be prone to getting ear infections. Finding a Lab Terrier mix breeder Be sure to always look for a reputable breeder that you can trust is not overbreeding the parent dogs. Always ask for the health documents for both parents as well as your puppy so you are aware early on of any possible health issues. This breed makes for a perfect companion dog and is a good choice for first-time dog owners. Just be sure you are willing to provide your dog with plenty of exercises as this breed is not a good choice for someone that wants a purse or lap dog. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. A Lab Terrier mix is a crossbreed dog, mixed between the purebred Labrador Retriever and a purebred terrier. Labs are famous for their loving temperament and intelligent mind, and terriers are adored for their feisty, tenacious personalities. That said, determining what a Lab Terrier mix is in particular could be difficult, because while the Lab is a specific breed, there are a multitude of Terrier dog breeds he could be combined with. The Labrador Retriever Labs are beloved for their family-friendly nature and trainable personality. Bred originally for water retrieving in Newfoundland, Canada, the Labrador Retriever is a well-built dog that comes in three standard colors. These colors include yellow, black and chocolate. The Lab is highly energetic and puppy-like, even into adulthood. His coat is thick, dense, weather-resistant and shedding, and he has sweet brown eyes and floppy ears. Most people love Labs because they are so friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers know no strangers and get along well with people of all ages as well as many different types of pets. They require lots of exercise, socialization, and plenty of space to play and run during the day. Labs make excellent companions for young families and first time dog owners. They grow to be between 25 and 80 pounds, .Terrier Dogs Terriers come in all shapes and sizes, with different coat types, temperaments and personality traits. While there are several different Terrier groups currently listed, each group contains dogs of different sizes, shapes, and breeding history. They are known to be feisty, animated, energetic, and loyal. Terriers come in all sizes, from less than 6 pounds to over 60 pounds. And this brings us to the crossbreed controversy. What You Should Know About The Crossbreed Controversy Crossbreed dogs are very popular, but there are some things you should know before investing in one. But it is important. A crossbreed, also known as a hybrid or designer dog, is a dog that is the direct offspring of two purebred parents. Different generations of cross breeding can help determine predictability with the dog, but for many first and second generation hybrids, predicting things like temperament, health and appearance can be left up to genetics. This is part of the controversy of crossbreeding dogs. Originally, crossbreeding was left up to experienced breeders who were working to create a new breed. It takes generations of crossbreeding and perfecting for a dog to be considered a purebred, and most first, second and third generation crossbreeds were generally not sold. However, over the past couple of decades, hybrid dogs have become very popular. It started with smaller poodle mixes like the maltipoo and yorkie poo, but has now spread to most any type of dog combination you can think of. Today, some of the most popular crossbreed dogs include Labradoodles, Bernadoodles, Cavapoos, Maltipoos, and other doodle dogs. However, the Lab Terrier Mix is not far behind in popularity. Many people are finding they enjoy the combination of sweet and spirited, outgoing and feisty, and these are all traits many Lab Terrier mix dogs embody. So, what are some of our favorite Lab Terrier Mix dogs available? Both the Scottie and the Lab are popular dogs, and for good reason. The Scottish Terrier is a symbol for Scottish class, and is beloved by enthusiasts for his independent nature. Combining a Scottie and a Lab is likely to leave us with a pleasant, loving, and loyal dog who is both adorable and spunky to boot. Though they are intelligent, training a Scottish Terrier Lab Mix could be tricky. These mixed breeds could be stubborn and get bored easily. They will require an owner with lots of patience and an owner who knows how to keep training sessions short and fun. A popular family dog, this mix has the potential to be hypoallergenic and is incredibly tolerant of children. He loves being with his family but is also fine left to his own accord, making him the ideal family dog for those with busy or unpredictable schedules. Beautiful both in appearance and temperament, the Irish Terrier Lab Mix makes a playful, fun-loving companion for young families and those with children. This is also a dog who becomes very bonded with his people and will enjoy learning new tricks and ques. While independent, the Irish Terrier Lab Mix requires plenty of early socialization and lots of training, especially considering his potential to have hunting instincts. This mix could also potentially be territorial round other dogs of the opposite sex, so monitering him will be nessiary. The Wheatador is a family-favorite, combining the beloved soft-coated wheaten with the intelligent and loving Lab. This is a Lab Terrier Mix who is full of personality and pep, and will do well in homes with owners who have flexible schedules. Sensitive and friendly, the Wheatador will try his best to please you, so use positive reinforcement methods during training and refrain from punishments and scolding. Wheatador dogs will need consistent exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day to stay happy and healthy. A Cross Between: The Boston Terrier and the Labrador Retriever Average Weight: 20 — 50 Pounds Average Temperamental Traits: Athletic, outgoing, fun-loving, affectionate, and loyal Average Lifespan: 11 — 15 Years Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, obesity, intervertebral disc disease, patellar luxation, brachycephalic airway syndrome, and ear infections. When it comes to Lab Terrier Mix dogs that are ideal for families, the Boston Lab is high on our list. This crossbreed is athletic, playful, loyal and eager to please. He is quick to learn, though he can have a stubborn streak. Described as a self-thinking hybrid with a fun-loving and family-oriented personality, the Border Lab is ideal for those with a more open schedule. He will thrive in families who can take time to train and care for him, and owners who are patient with his sometimes ornery behavior. However, this is a trainable dog all-in-all that is well-mannered when properly socialized. Like most dogs, the Border Lab does best with positive reinforcement training including treats and praise. While the Fox Terrier Lab is an outgoing, independent, and loving family companion, he might be problematic for some first time dog owners. Combining the high energy of the Fox Terrier and the enthusiasm of the Lab may be a bit much, so the Fox Terrier Lab Mix will do best in homes with experienced dog owners who understand how to harness all that energy. That said, when properly trained and socialized, this Lab Terrier Mix does well with families of all ages. The Rat Terrier specifically is known to be feisty and mischievous, and these traits may make training somewhat challenging for the owner of a Rat Terrier Lab Mix. However, when trained and socialized at an early age , and when using positive reinforcement like treats and praise, most owners fall head over heels for this clever and unique hybrid. The Labrastaff is one of the more popular Lab Terrier Mix dogs on this list, and many people adore him for his loving nature and infectious personality. A combination between a Labrador Retriever and an American Staffordshire Terrier, the Labrastaff will need plenty of exercise, training and socialization throughout his lifetime to grow up happy, healthy and well rounded. Despite his potentially intimidating look, the Labrabull is a Lab Terrier Mix who is surprisingly gentle. In fact, he is easily frightened and will need lots of love and patience from his family to help him feel safe and at ease. We suggest finding a breeder that specializes in the unique mix you are looking for, and who understands the background of each purebred parent breed. Most reputable breeders will also be able to offer you a health certificate with your puppy that proves he has been health screened and cleared of any serious health issues. Remember, while some experts say that cross breeds are healthier than purebreds, your Lab Terrier Mix could still be susceptible to any of the same health issues as his purebred parent breeds. You may unwittingly be contributing to a puppy mill, and you also have a more likely chance of winding up with a sick puppy. Going through a rescue or shelter to adopt your Lab Terrier Mix is usually a fraction of the price of going through a breeder. Better still, rescuing a dog helps reduce the number of dogs in shelters, opening up space for other incoming dogs in need of a home. Many shelters will also have their dogs health screened, and some even offer free initial vet visits. Furthermore, most shelters and rescues have their dogs undergo behavioral testing to ensure they are adoptable and end up with the right family. When looking for the best dog for your home and lifestyle, consider your lifestyle and what you want to get out of your companionship. Do you have children or other pets? Do you live a busy lifestyle? Do you enjoy outdoor adventures or do you prefer staying in? Do you have a backyard? Do you live in an apartment? Make sure the type of Lab Terrier Mix you choose fits into your unique lifestyle, and will get along well with other members of your household. Last but not least, regardless of which type of Lab Terrier Mix you choose, make sure you have plenty of time, patience and love to provide him with. Which of the above Lab Terrier Mix dogs are your favorite? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below. Thanks for reading. Jen Jones Jen Jones is a professional dog trainer and behavior specialist with more than 25 years of experience. Well known for her intuitive and compassionate approach, Jen adopts scientifically-proven, reward-based methods, encouraging positive reinforcement over punishment. Jen specializes in obedience training, behavior modification, and puppy socialization. Her innovative methods, particularly in addressing anxiety and aggression issues, have been widely recognized. Their damp cloth Terrier Lab Hybrid Health Problems Although the hybrid is typically healthy, there are still instances wherein the breed member has inherited health issues from one or both of the parents. This is why the health history of the parent breeds are so important. While all dogs have the potential to inherit and develop genetic diseases, some breeds are more susceptible than others. You could avoid having to worry about these if you chose to adopt a puppy from the start. A reputable breeder must be honest about the health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances are made so that a dog is proven to be tested from and cleared for a particular condition. On the other hand, here are the health conditions that some Terrier mixed with Lab dogs has experienced: Intervertebral Disc Disease — is a disease that also affects the spinal cord over time. It is not apparent until a trigger presents itself. Symptoms can range from mild pain to paralysis. Hip Dysplasia — it is a heritable disease in which bones either do not fit the joint or grow at different proportions. It may lead to arthritis and usually goes unnoticed most of the time. Ear Infections — it is the inflammation either in the inner ear or the middle ear of the dog, both of which are caused by bacterial infection. The best course of action to prevent these diseases is to have them regularly checked and have a document of their health history. You can also ask your trusted veterinarian more about these diseases and what are the small ways you can do to reduce their risks. Aside from their food, make sure that your dog is always hydrated by keeping their water bowl full all the time. It is essential to monitor their eating patterns since this hybrid is prone to obesity. Make sure that they only consume the right amount of food that is right for their active lifestyle. Some of the ways in choosing the right dog food are to look at their ingredients. To help you get started, here are some of the best dry dog foods of for highly active puppies: Merrick Grain Free Puppy Recipe Dry Dog Food — This brand is packed full of chicken protein and industry-leading levels of Chondroitin and Glucosamine. This brand has such a good taste that even the many picky puppies appear to like it. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Puppy Food — This brand offers a nutritionally balanced kibble that is available in two flavors. High Prairie contains bison and venison while Pacific Stream includes a variety of fish species. The puppies who have digested it have appeared to be healthier, exhibiting high energy levels and a shinier coat. Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend Puppy Food — This brand is considered a premium puppy food but is available at a very reasonable price point. Most puppies digest the dog food with no problem. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Puppy Food — This brand is made from an impressive collection of ingredients which includes farm-raised chickens and several fruits and vegetables. The recipe is designed for small and medium puppies, but the manufacturer also produces a large-breed formula under a different name. Aside from its taste and exceptional ingredients, dog food also promotes a healthy coat. It also provides dogs with higher energy levels. Because of this, it is full of great-tasting proteins, nutritious fruits, and vegetables. This brand will keep your puppy healthy and happy. Most puppies also appear to love the taste of this dog food. Whether you have a giant or a miniature breed pooch, you want to make sure that they stay happy and healthy. That is why you should avoid giving them the worst dry dog food. If your furry friend is still a cub, check out the best puppy food brands on offer right now. If your goggie is a wise, elderly dog-grandpa, give them only the best senior dry dog food , and keep their brittle bones safe! Every mixed doggo carries the genes of their beautiful, one-of-a-kind parents. So, you might want to try your luck with the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best large breed dry dog food and see which one they like better! Lab Mixed With Terrier Exercise Requirements This breed will be at its best behavior if they can exercise regularly every day. A daily walk for at least an hour mixed with some games at home will keep the Lab Terrier Mix fit and healthy. They can get accustomed to apartment life if they are exercised well daily and if they could explore their place a little. They are not in favor of areas with extreme climates and would do well in moderate climates. Because of its Labrador Retriever parent, the Terrier Lab mix will enjoy splashing around in water especially in the summer. By then, you can take them out to swimming with you. Some of the games that will keep them amused for a long time include fetching the ball, tug of war, and hide and seek the type of games. The Lab mixed with Terrier is a family dog that loves to please, so make sure to include him during family outings. They are also advised to have at least minutes of physical activities as a daily requirement. Lab Terrier Mix Training Since the Lab Terrier mix is a hybrid which produces naturally intelligent and playful dogs, you will not have a hard time training them. Their own eagerness to learn is also a factor which makes them very active during training. Like most dogs, they must also undergo training at a young age because they tend to become more stubborn as they grow older. If left alone and bored, they can become destructive. While positive reinforcements are highly encouraged, make sure that you only give them the right amount of treats because they have a high risk of obesity. Since this breed is an intelligent dog who loves physical challenges, more exercise can help in their ease of training. Socialization with others is also an important component to make sure to take them out to park or visit doggy daycare to get them around as many people and dogs as possible. To help you get started with their training, here are some of the essential commands that every dog must obey at a young age: Sit — the typical obedience command that you can teach your dog. Use this command in different situations so that your puppy will learn it fast. Come — this command will help you keep the dog out of trouble. It can also be used if you lost your dog at a safe distance of if you lost the grip on the leash. Down — this command can be a difficult one since it shows submissiveness of the dog. While teaching this to your dog, make sure to keep a positive and relaxed tone. Stay — this command is a form of self-control for your dog. Leave It — this is another self-control and obedience command. Upon its mastery, it can help you keep your dog safe from potential harm brought about by its curiosity to explore possible dangerous things. Terrier Labrador Mix and Families While the Terrier Lab mix will have no trouble getting along with your kids and anyone else in your family, there are also some things to consider. Keep in mind that these dogs are moderate to excessive shedders. They also have a high physical exercise requirement, since they are very active dogs. They also have a reputation for chewing on the very things that you told them not to chew. However, these dogs are one of the most loyal and friendly companions. They are a livewire of energy and are highly sociable, enjoying the company of dogs and other pets. Since they like to be active, you should not buy them if you only intend to treat them as a purse dog or lap sitters. The coats of Labradors are very beautiful and are in yellow, black, or chocolate color. Their fur is thick and short and is an all-weather coat. Terrier Dog Overview There are many breeds in the Terrier family. Most of the Terrier breeds originated from Ireland and Great Britain. A recent study has shown that those from the hunting group originated in 19th century Europe. Today the terriers are grouped according to their function like hunting, size, etc. The DNA of the Terriers is filled with hunting and killing skills. They can never be tempted by any real or perceived threat. Their boldness and fearlessness would always get the better of them. Terrier dogs are very quick learners. They get along well with children if they are given proper and supportive training. These dogs are very loyal and it is great fun to exercise or have fun with them. The combination of two popular breeds has given way to one of the finest designer dogs. This crossbreed is relatively a new breed, as a result, there is nothing accurate to tell about this breed. Although the Labrador Terriers are designer dogs, it is unfortunate that they finally end up in shelter homes. As not much information is available about this breed it is better to consult any shelter home or breeder if anyone is considering adopting this crossbreed. As is in the case of most of the mixed breeds it is very difficult to exactly specify their size. Male dogs weigh between 27 to 50 pounds while females would weigh between 20 to 45 pounds. Their height from the front paw to their shoulder while standing on all fours could be between thirteen to seventeen inches. The females might be visibly smaller than the males standing between thirteen to fifteen inches. The coat of the Labrador Terrier will be dense, and straight. Their hair is of medium length. Both the parents have opposite coat shedding characteristics. So, it is difficult to predict which shedding trait the Labrador Terrier dog will inherit. The colors of the coat will be generally black, brown, white, or a combination of these colors. Their furs are bi-colored or solid. Labrador Terrier dogs have a short and sturdy body but in proportion with their body. They have very expressive brown eyes. Their ever-smiling face is a quite well-known character. When they raise their eyebrows they can convey a quizzical look. The nose of the Labrador Terrier dog is normally black. The ears can be floppy like that of the Labrador or small and erect with a floppy tip like that of the Terrier. Their legs are straight and strong with rounded paws. The tails of this crossbreed are medium-sized and are held low away from the body. Food Habits of Labrador Terrier Dogs The food consumption of this mixed breed depends on a lot of factors like age, health, etc. Other than food always ensure that their bowl of water is kept full so that they are always hydrated. It is necessary to monitor their diet regularly as this breed is prone to getting obese just like the parent. Ensure that they consume only the right amount of food that is required for their active lifestyle. We love our pets to be healthy and happy always. That is why we should avoid giving them unwanted dry food. If your pet is a puppy give him the best puppy food available. But if he is a grandpa then go for the best senior dry food which could keep their bones brittle. Whatever you experiment with his food always consult your vet before you change his diet. Exercise Requirements for Labrador Terrier Mix Just like their parents, the Labrador Terrier Mix is also the happiest if he is given exercises regularly. A daily walk combined with some games at home will keep him active and joyful. Being an eagerness bound dog he will even wait for you at the door when it is time to go for his daily walks. If you are staying in an apartment make him get accustomed to the space available and train him according to that. This breed favors a moderate climate and would find it difficult to thrive in extreme climates. Labrador Terrier Mix breed has inherited the trait of swimming from its Labrador parent. He loves to have a splash in the water especially in summers. His favorite games are fetching a ball, tug-of-war, playing hide and seek, etc. This breed is a family dog, so he will just love outings with the family. So it would not be difficult to train him. They have a nature-filled with eagerness to learn which will make them active during training. Like all dogs, they should also be trained at an early age because they will otherwise tend to become stubborn as they grow older. If left alone they tend to become bored and destructive. Although they will listen attentively to all your commands sometimes they will be a time when they will just not obey. He loves to please people so he will respond well to your training as long as he gets all the attention. Training for this breed should always be only with positive reinforcements. Do not pamper him with overdoses of rewards or treats as this may lead to obesity. Since this is an intelligent breed that loves physical challenges, regular exercises will only ease the training. Socialization should be taught at an early age. Take him to parks, beaches, or doggy care and teach him how to mingle with other people or dogs. A quick brush, with a firm, bristled brush, once a week is all that is needed. If you need their coat to be a little shinier then a rub down with a soft damp cloth is all that is needed. This breed loves attention so grooming every week should be done just as a ritual for them. Ritual grooming could be as simple as checking their nails, checking their ears, or just simply grooming down their coat. Wiping their ears gently with a soft damp cloth will remove any dirt or debris. It is better to get them used to brush their teeth from an early age. Let them be trained so and always reward them for doing this good behavior. This practice will only ensure that they do not develop any bad habits later when they mature. How does the Labrador Terrier get along with the family? Every pet gets along with the family on how we train him. He should be taught early on how to accept the general rules of the house. Being highly active, they have a huge need for exercise. He is always eager to please his owner and family and hence would always try to grab your attention. They have a clingy nature to their family and hence he would get bored when left alone. Never buy this crossbreed just for lap-sitting. He is a high wired dog and cannot just be kept idle for long. Also, he stands a heavy risk of getting obese quickly so keeping him active is the best option. Energetic and tolerant they make the ideal playmate for children. Saying that it does not mean that you can leave your children without any supervision with your dog. If no adults are free to be around when your child is playing with your pet then it is better to keep him kenneled. For them, it is fun to pull at his ears or tail but for the dog, it will not be easy. Labrador Terriers should be taught early on how to mingle with other dogs or pets. If he has been trained on how to interact with other animals then he will behave friendly with them. Health problems faced by Labrador Terrier Mix All dogs have the potential to inherit genetic health issues but some have the risk of facing these problems more. For crossbreeds, it is very important to always check the health of the parents. A reputable breeder will always maintain a proper health record of all his breeds. So if you have adopted your pet from the start then you should not be facing any problems. Also, you should take your dog to the vet immediately after you have adopted him to know what exactly his health status is like. A Labrador Terrier mix dog has a life span of up to ten to fifteen years. They should undergo regular checkups to monitor their health condition. Some of the health problems they could face are : Hip Dysplasia — This is an inherited disease where the bones do not fit into the joints or form at different proportions. This may lead to arthritis. It is always better to stop your pet from getting any disease. So always take him for regular checkups and try to maintain a health record. Take the help of your vet and ask them for suggestions to avoid your pet from facing any health issues. If proper training is given from an early age everything would work fine. But just like all dog breeds they also have their pros and cons. Here are some of them Pros of getting a Labrador Terrier Mix Intelligent and easy to train — Just like their parents they are always eager to learn and so it is easy to train them. This combined with their intelligence makes him an excellent pet. Social skills — They are extremely friendly and can get along well with children, people, or other pets. Early socialization would make them the favorite among all. Moderate maintenance requirement — Even though they have high exercise requirements their maintenance is moderate or sometimes even low. This is because they shed very less. Regularly scheduled brushing will prevent their coat from getting untangled. Cons of getting a Labrador Terrier Mix High exercise requirements — As both, the parents are highly active this crossbreed requires a lot of exercises. If they do not get the required exercise then they have the chance to develop any dog diseases. Separation anxiety — This dog loves to be in the company of its family and is a very affectionate dog. If they are left alone they become bored and tend to develop destructive behaviors. Risk of obesity — Even though this breed is highly active yet at the same time they just love their food. Because of this, they tend to become obese quickly. So regular and proper exercise is required to prevent them from obesity as otherwise, this will lead to other health problems. Some of the most fascinating ones are : Rat Terrier Lab Mix — He is a handsome fellow, small to medium in size. His lean body is covered with a short dual-colored coat. The coat color black, tan, apricot or red or sometimes in a combination with white. This breed comes in a miniature size and their height could be between ten to eighteen inches. Their typical weight could be ten to twenty-five pounds. The life expectancy of this dog varies between ten to twelve years on average. This mix makes a good companion and is always an adventure game. His energy level is very high and always loves to be in motion. You just cannot see him as a couch potato or lazing around. Early socialization and training would make him a good companion for children. But he should not be left along with other dogs. Bull Terrier Lab Mix — This crossbreed is a lively dog that must be kept busy always to prevent him from getting bored. If not he will develop destructive traits. They grow to about twenty-one to twenty-two inches tall and weigh about fifty to seventy pounds. This breed has a short coat and has a plethora of colors. They are considered to be low maintenance dogs. The Bull Terrier Lab mix is loyal dogs. But do not give them any canine siblings as they show their bratty behavior then. Therefore he should be trained early and well. With positive behavioral training, he could be taught well-polished manners. The American Labrastaffies are similar to the Pitbull Terrier. He will stand at seventeen to nineteen inches tall and live twelve to fifteen years. Their coat is short and soft and easy to maintain. Labrastaff is a sturdy medium-sized dog who is intelligent and self-assured. His agility and adaptability to any situation make him a good search dog. This breed has a sparkling personality but those cross-bred with the Pitbull will have temperament issues. He can be kept happy and friendly with just moderate exercises. His potential guarding instincts are very high so early socialization, especially with children, is required. He grows to fourteen to sixteen inches tall and weighs about 24 to 38 pounds. His life expectancy is twelve to fourteen years. They have a short coat which comes in a rainbow of fourteen colors. He has a considerable high energy level and hence would require a lot of exercises to burn up his energy. Positive training is the only way for him as he is stubborn by nature. Harsh methods and a very strict regime will not work with him. The Smooth Fox crossbreed will be medium-sized. They stand at 15 inches tall with a wedge-shaped head. The life expectancy of this breed is twelve to fifteen years. Their fur is smooth and thick with mainly white, black, or tan markings on the coat. This breed is a relatively healthy dog. The Wire Fox crossbreed has a wiry coat with white and brown colors about the ear and face. They stand at fifteen inches tall and weigh about 16 to 18 pounds with a life span of 12 to 15 years. This dog is attention seekers and will do anything to catch your attention. He is always alert and ever ready to jump. They have the crazy habit of running behind any moving objects be it even a toy. Border Terrier Lab Mix — This crossbreed is a cheerful agile guy standing at 15 inches tall. He weighs 11 to 16 pounds. They live on average for 12 to 15 years. They have a typical short terrier coat. The coat is wiry and not smooth. It comes in dual colors blue-tan and grizzle-tan. He will do just fine with children but you should be careful if he is left with other dogs. Conclusion A Labrador pet is an evergreen choice for every dog lover. But the cost of owning a pedigree can sometimes be out of reach for a few of them. On the other hand, a Labrador mix can be something closer to owning the original pedigree but at a lesser cost! The crossbreed will be as much fun as the Labrador itself. We also have a choice to make by getting a mix that would not grow as big as a Labrador but at the same time suitable for our house. The general rule is that crossbreeds will live healthier and longer than pure breeds. If we choose the right Labrador mix then we could get a breed that inherits the best traits of the Lab. Additionally, we could also get a dog with the additional inheritances received from the other parent as well. While trying to find a new pet the first step you should do is to find reputable breeders. They generally have the best breeds with them and would never take a risk on their welfare. Hence you can trust that they would never overbreed the parent breeds. Also, check that they have the proper documents including vaccine schedules and health records. Meet the breeder personally so that you can ask them all about the needs of your puppy. They could also guide you on how to raise your puppy. Going to a breeder and meeting the puppy will also help you decide if you ready to raise a pet. Otherwise, the next thing to do is to check out with the local shelters and rescue homes where sometimes you could be lucky to find that perfect pet. The only point to remember while adopting a pet from the shelter or rescue home is that please ensure that their health record is perfect and they have been temperament tested too. If possible it would be worth it if the shelter home would allow you to take the dog on a trial basis for a week or so. This would give you time to decide if he would fit into your home and vice versa too. Last but not least is that before you go to a breeder or shelter home it is advisable to research and find out about the breed you are planning to adopt. This will help you in clearing whatever questions you have in your mind about raising a pet. But whatever said and done the Labrador Terrier Mixed dog is always fun to be with. So enjoy!! Inspire Dogs Home Click to rate this post! Tweet on Twitter There are many different Lab Terrier mix breeds. In this article we will look at some of the features that Lab Terrier hybrids have in common. And show you how to raise your mix breed puppy to be a happy, healthy member of the family. What is a Lab Terrier Mix The friendly Labrador Retriever is a sweet-natured, intelligent, sociable dog who is a definite people-pleaser. Equally lovable but in stark contrast in terms of temperament and appearance, are the diverse array of dogs in the Terrier group. This is a varied group, but they do have some general traits in common. They also make loyal, loving, pocket sized pets. So what happens when these two different breed types combine? Are you thinking of bringing a Lab Terrier mix dog into your home as a pet? Terrier Lab hybrid possibilities! The tricky part is predicting how these characteristics will emerge. In fact, no responsible breeder will guarantee the personality of any mixed breed dog. The best anyone can do is consider each breed in turn, and realize that a cross breed canine will be a singular combination of several possibilities. The best of both breeds, the worst of both breeds, or a glorious mashup of the two! Overview of the Labrador Retriever breed Labs are a medium size dog with an impressive energy level. The friendly, smart-as-a-whip Labrador Retriever breed originated from hunting stock in Newfoundland, Canada. There they enjoyed success helping fishermen with their arduous, labor-intensive work. Today a high canine IQ combined with a natural people-pleasing personality makes Labs go-to dogs for search-and-rescue and law enforcement work. As well as being a popular choice for service dog duty. Labs love everybody, or so it seems, and they make good pets for children and families. Labradors have beautiful coats are come in three distinct colors: yellow, black, and chocolate. Given all of their positive qualities, it no surprise that Labs are an enduringly popular pet breed. Overview of the Terrier breed There are several breeds with the Terrier group. And a recent study found that dogs from within the hunting group originated in 19th century Europe. Modern terriers are commonly grouped according to their function such as hunting or size. Dogs from individual groups vary greatly in size, from around 2 to 3 pounds all the way up to 50 pounds and more. What many Terriers have in common is a history steeped in animal control killing vermin such as rats, etc. They have a bold streak in their personality and a dash of fearlessness that can sometimes get the better of them. However, on the whole Terriers are quick learners capable of getting along well with children when given the proper positive and supportive training. They are also very loyal pets, and great fun to exercise, train and relax with. Rat Terrier Lab mix The handsome, small to medium size Rat Terrier is a companion animal that is always game for his next adventure. He has tons of energy and loves being in motion. Being a couch potato or purse dog is just not in his DNA! But the Rat Terrier loves to please his humans so he should take well to consistent and supportive training methods. Early socialization and training should render him a good companion for children. Although he should not be left alone with other dogs. Colors that include black, red, tan, apricot and blue sometimes in combination with white. Rat Terriers are a relatively healthy group, but issues such as heart and eye disease, patellar luxation, and hip dysplasia have been known to crop up. The latter two conditions are common among Labs, so it is important to have your pup tested for these issues. This compact Rat Terrier comes in a miniature size ranging from 10 to 13 inches as well as a standard size of 13 to 18 inches. Their typical weight range is from between 10 to 25 pounds, and life span varies between 12 to 18 years on average. When you mix a Lab with a Rat Terrier the resulting pup could grow anywhere between these two sizes, and reflect any traits of either personality. Bull Terrier Lab mix The Bull Terrier is a lively dog that must have an outlet in order to stave off boredom and any subsequent destructive behavior. Bull Terriers are loyal dogs but giving him other dogs as canine siblings is not recommended. And with positive and supportive behavior management training he can learn to polish up his manners. This Terrier sports a short coat that comes in a plethora of colors and is considered to be low maintenance. Bull Terriers have issues with heart murmurs, congenital deafness, and patella luxation. The average Bull Terrier hovers right around 21 to 22 inches tall, and weighs from 50 to 70 pounds. Bull Terriers have an average lifespan of 12 to 13 years. A Bull Terrier Lab mix could display any of these traits, or any of those of a Lab. They will range somewhere in size between the two as adults. What you can be sure of is that this mix will need human company for most of the day, and thorough socialization from puppyhood. American Staffies are a very similar dog to the Pitbull Terrier. The American Staffordshire is a sturdy, medium size pooch described as an intelligent and self-assured dog. His agility and adaptability make him a natural for search and rescue duty. The American Staffordshire has a sparkling personality that hardly ever dims, and she can be counted on to be a loyal friend. However there are concerns with these Pitbull related dogs about temperament. The American Staffordshire Terrier is both muscular and agile and has an attractive form that is stocky in the front, tapering to an impressively lean backside. American Staffordshire Terriers have a few medical conditions to be aware of. Hip dysplasia and heart disease are on the serious end of the spectrum. In addition immune system weaknesses can lead to allergies of the coat and skin. Luckily there are screening tests that can identify affected dogs as well as those carrying the gene responsible for the condition. American Staffordshire dogs have a soft, short, easy-to-maintain coat that sheds minimally. American Staffordshire Terriers stand between 17 to 19 inches tall, and live 12 to 15 years on average. Due to potential guarding instincts, you would need to socialize your puppy very carefully, especially to children and strangers coming into the home. It would also be important to meet the American Staffordshire Terrier parent, to get an idea of what temperament they may inherit. They are not the same breed as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Solid, heavy and strong. And at 14 to 16 inches tall, he is a bit smaller than his American Staffordshire brethren. This lively dog needs lots of exercise to burn up his considerable energy. Traditional training may be an issue for the Staffordshire given his stubborn nature, so positive reinforcement training is advised. On the other hand, this smart dog can be gentle with children provided that supportive, early socialization and training is provided. Staffordshires have a short, low-maintenance coat that comes in a rainbow of 14 colors. The Staffordshire Terrier stands approximately 14 to 16 inches tall and lives on average for 12 to 14 years. Males weigh between 28 and 38 pounds, with females a tad under that at 24 to 34 pounds. A Lab mixed with a Staffie could display any of these tendencies. And will probably look like a shorter, stockier Lab with any number of potential color combinations. Their fur and coloration, as well as head shape are two of the main differences between them. Smooth Fox Terriers are a medium size breed with an average level of energy. They average 15 inches tall and have a wedge shaped head. Their smooth, thick fur sheds seasonally. It is mainly white, with tan or black markings randomly decorating the coat. Although they have a short torso, these amazing animals have the grace of a gazelle. Owners can expect their Smooth Fox Terriers to live an average of 12 to 15 years. The majority of these dogs are relatively healthy animals, although allergies and patellar luxation are typical issues. The Wire Fox Terrier is named for his dense, springy low-shed coat. His wiry coat is predominantly white with brownish coloration about the ears and face. Health issues to be aware of include patellar luxation and deafness. This dog really, really, wants to be your BFF: he can never seem to get enough attention! The Wire Fox Terrier is always alert and spunky, ever ready to jump into playful action. This means that daily exercise and activity is a must. Like cars, other animals, etc. Like the Smooth Fox Terrier, the Wiry Fox Terrier is a medium size, medium energy dog who can be expected to live an average of 12 to 15 years. Males weigh an average of 18 pounds, while females average 16 pounds. Wiry Fox Terriers stand approximately 15 inches tall. You should prepare for your Lab Fox Terrier mix to potentially inherit his strong prey drive, and start recall training early. Border Terrier Lab mix The Border Terrier is a cheerful, agile little guy who stands anywhere between 11 to 16 inches tall. They have a typically short terrier-type coat, although it comes with wiry, not smooth fur. Dual color schemes on the coat include blue and tan and grizzle and tan. The Border Terrier will do fine with children but can be tricky with other dogs. They are a relatively healthy group, although allergies can crop up. Border Terriers stand around a foot to 15 inches tall and live for 12 to 15 years on average. Males typically weigh 13 to 16 pounds, while females range from 11 to 14 pounds. Your Lab Border Terrier mix could inherit aspects from either parent, but is likely to be somewhere in between in terms of height. Lab Terrier cross temperament Knowing the kind of temperament a potential companion animal will bring to your home is crucial to forming a lasting bond. Too often dogs are surrendered because of incompatibility issues. A situation that could have been avoided with just a little research and a few well-placed questions. Your Lab and Terrier mix will inherit her disposition from her parents. Will she be more like an affable Lab, eager to please and friendly almost to a fault? Or will she take on the spicier nature of the Terrier types? Then again, your pup may inherit the best or worst qualities of each breed, or she may be endowed with a mosaic of contrasting personality points. Whatever camp you fall into, remember that there is no guarantee what sort of temperament your mixed breed dog will be blessed with. You must be happy with either temperament and the training requirements they could have, before you decide to commit to a Lab Terrier mix. Lab Terrier mix — how big do they grow? Your cross breed will be within the ranges of his parents, depending on which Terrier and Lab are bred together. So, how big do Labradors get? Male Labs range from 22 to 25 inches tall, while females tend to average 21 to 24 inches in height. Likewise, males usually weigh more than females. A typical male Lab will range from 65 to 80 pounds and females typically weigh in between 55 to 70 pounds. Terrier Lab mix general health Allergies are common among the different types of Terriers. Allergic response occurs when the immune system reacts to common substances allergens as dangerous, resulting in an extreme physical response. Dogs with allergic skin reaction are at risk for skin infection, hair loss, and scabbing. Dysplasia occurs when a joint and its socket fail to align properly resulting in a painful grinding and rubbing motion versus a smooth movement. Unfortunately the outcomes of these disorders can include severe pain, distress, and loss of function for your pooch, as well as costly surgery. Eye disease is also a concern with Labs. Cataracts pose another concern for Labs. Cataracts affect the eye lens by obstructing incoming light resulting in compromised vision. The Labrador parent must be hip and elbow scored, PRA clear and have a clear eye test of less than a year old. The Terrier parent must be tested for any health conditions relevant to their breed too. Lab Terrier hybrid lifespan Labrador Retrievers have a life expectancy of approximately .In general you can expect a healthy, well cared for mix breed pup to survive for around 10 years up to 12, and maybe a bit beyond. Smaller dogs and mixed breed dogs tend to live a little longer on average, so this gives your pup a good chance of a slightly increased time with you. Your mixed breed dog is at potential risk for any of the health issues that face her parents. Health testing should be done for the issues that impact both parent breeds. In particular look for Labrador hip and elbow scores and eye tests. Terrier Lab cross puppy Working with a responsible breeder is one of the most important things that you can do to minimize unhappy surprises. Conscientious breeders will help you to learn what you need know about health issues. As well as ancillary concerns such as temperament, grooming, etc. For example, hip dysplasia is just one of the serious health issues which impact Labs and some Terriers. And this is where a responsible, knowledgeable breeder comes in. Remember, your mixed breed dog can inherit any aspect of either parent. So it makes sense to understand all health implications before making a lifelong commitment to a mix breed dog. Keep in mind that all puppies are individuals in their own right, and even littermates can exhibit vastly different traits. Is a Labrador terrier mix right for my family? However, they will provide loyal and friendly companionship year after year. Many Terriers can be a handful of live-wire energy, and in general they should be watched when in the company of other dogs. They like to be active and should not be considered a purse-dog or bought with the intention of having it be a lap-sitter. Should I buy a Terrier Lab hybrid? Your Black Lab Terrier mix, Yellow Lab Terrier mix, and Chocolate Lab Terrier mix has the potential to inherit these and other typical breed qualities from each parent. Are you prepared to handle and live with the characteristics that both Labs and Terriers bring to the table? If the answer is yes, the next step is to find a responsible breeder in your area, and begin the happy process of adopting a new four-legged forever friend! Do you have a Lab and Terrier cross breed? How do I choose the right Lab Terrier mix for me? What is a Lab Terrier Mix? A Lab Terrier cross is a mixed breed dog with one Labrador Retriever parent, and one terrier parent. The main point to note here is that the Labrador Retriever is a specific dog breed. In fact, the AKC recognises 31 different terrier breeds! All terriers share some common traits in appearance, temperament, and care needs. But, there are some key differences between them too. Mixed breed dogs can inherit any traits from either parent. So, Lab Terrier mixes have a lot of scope for variety, even puppies from the same litter. None are yet recognized as official breeds in their own right. But, they are growing in popularity, and are becoming a more common sight across the world. An Amstaff Lab mix can come in a huge variety of colors thanks to the influence of the Staffie parent. They will often be very well muscled, and will need lots of daily exercise, as well as socialization from a young age. This little mix will usually be eager to please, active, and will fit right into a family home. This mix will be lively, clever, and alert. If socialized well, they will suit most households, but might be prone to chasing small pets and young children! The Rat Terrier parent breed comes in two sizes standard and miniature , so the size of this mix will depend which size is bred. These little dogs may also have quite strong chase and hunt instincts. Mixes may inherit the egg-shaped head of the Bull Terrier parent. Their colors can vary quite a bit, but their coat will almost always be short and dense. Expect moderate to heavy shedding with this mix. This mix will usually be a medium sized dog. They will form very strong bonds with their close family, and will love homes that can dedicate lots of time and attention to their care. Most of the time, this combo will produce a black Lab Terrier mix. But, occasionally, some other shades can show up. These dogs are friendly, loyal, and energetic, despite their smaller size. So, if you want a large Terrier Lab mix, this is the one to go for. Airedale Terrier Lab mixes will likely need more exercise than smaller mixes, but will be just as alert and intelligent. Make sure to watch out for health issues that can impact larger dogs, like hip dysplasia and bloat. This little combo will be loyal and playful, affectionate especially with close family members. The mix may inherit the more wiry coat texture of the Border Terrier parent. Either way, this mix is likely to be smaller than a standard Labrador. It will be friendly, lively, and courageous. Because there are so many different terrier breeds that can be used in a Lab and Terrier cross, the appearance of one can be very different to the looks of the next. Even their sizes can vary! Some may be smaller, like those with the Border Terrier parent, but others may be much larger, like the Airedale Terrier Lab hybrid! Terrier breeds come in a huge variety of different colors. Generally, a lot of people favour the Labrador colors when choosing their mix. The Lab comes in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. So, if your heart is set on one of these shades, try to mix your Labrador with a Terrier that has the same color coat. The Labrador Retriever breed generally grows from .But, with terriers there is a lot more variation. The smallest terrier breeds might only grow to around 15 inches tall. But, the largest the Airedale Terrier grows up to 23 inches, weighing 50 to 70 pounds! Mixed breed puppies can take after either parent, but they will usually fall somewhere in between the sizes of their two parents. So, if you cross a Lab with a smaller terrier breed, there is more room for variation in size. Mixing a Lab with a similar sized dog is more likely to give you a predictable adult size. Do Lab Terrier Mixes Shed? Labradors are a high shedding breed. They will shed moderately all year round, and heavily during shedding season. Shedding in terrier breeds varies with their coat type, as does their grooming needs. And, as we know, mixed breed dogs can take after either parent, or be a perfect mix of the two. So, you should look into the specific terrier parent being used to find out the likelihood of your mix shedding. But, if they take after the Lab parent, they will shed a lot. Labrador Retrievers and all terrier breeds are known to form strong bonds with their families, including young kids that they grow up with. As long as your mix has been socialized well, they will likely love kids. And, thanks to the common playful natures, kids will usually love them too! Socialization is important to ensure your mix inherits the friendliest temperament possible, and shows no aggression around kids. But make sure young kids in your family are taught how to interact with your mix, especially if they are a smaller hybrid that could be easily hurt during rough play. On top of this, be aware that many terriers have strong chase and hunt instincts. If your mix inherits these, they may be prone to chasing and nipping children. Labs are known to be one of the friendliest breeds out there. If you raise a Lab Terrier mix with cats, they will likely get along well. However, terrier breeds, as we know, can have very strong chase and hunting instincts. So, they may chase your cat quite a lot. In worst case scenarios, chasing can end in aggression. So, you should socialize this hybrid well to cats if you have them at home, and make sure your cats always have a route away from your dog. Labradors and terrier breeds are very energetic. A mix between the two will need plenty of exercise every day, and will be happiest with a job to do. But, smaller mixes will need less exercise than larger mixes. And, a Lab Terrier cross is also bound to enjoy curling up with you on the couch after a busy day.

Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies What is included in our prices? We provide nanny service to all major US airports for an extra fee. Shipping to other countries is also possible, contact us for more info! PayPal and Stripe have payment insurance which means that they keep your money pending until you get the puppy. We get your money just after you have confirmed that your puppy has arrived in your arms safe and sound! Shots up-to-date worth USD Our pups receive all the necessary shots while they are with us: 1. Deworming worth 50 USD Our puppies are dewormed every two weeks from the age of 4 weeks old and they also get Simparica Trio against ticks, fleas and heartworms right before they leave. Anti-parasite treatment worth USD We give our puppies anti-parasite treatment against all parasites before they leave except for heart worms. Echocardiogram heart examination, worth 1, USD We do echocardiogram on our Frenchies and when we find the slightest chance of heart murmur in one of them, we rather cancel the adoption and find a loving home for them locally. Valer, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Membership and right to post in the TomKings Frenchie Family closed Facebook group We created a Facebook group for our adopters where we answer their questions and they share their experiences with each other. We are a Family because we are connected by the love towards Frenchies and we are always there to help and support each other, as well as share valuable experiences and advice! Only TomKings Frenchie parents are allowed to post and ask from us or any other member in the group. Participation in TomKings Frenchie Meetups We organize Frenchie Meetups in major cities throughout the States where you can talk with other TomKings Frenchie owners and exchange advice while your Frenchies are playing with each other. Frenchie Love eBook worth .Lifetime Health Guarantee We give you a lifetime health guarantee on all genetic disorders which cause death, which means that we send you another puppy if your Frenchie dies. We have never had that so far since the parent dogs go through a rigorous selection process before the breeding program and our vet checks the puppies often. We know that Frenchie owners have a bunch of questions about feeding, raising, training, etc. Our goal is to have only happy and healthy puppies so we will always be there to answer your questions! Lifetime vet assistance Frenchie owners have a lot of questions about the health of their puppies and most of the time they run to their vet right away and leave a fortune there for nothing. We even tell you whether you need to visit your vet at all! Health certification TomKings Frenchies are examined strictly before they leave for their new homes and we give you a health certificate which can be used if you want to have insurance for your puppy which we highly recommend. Exceptional care We treat every puppy as a family member from the moment they are born. We believe that the secret of having socialized and healthy Frenchie puppies is spending time with them all day long and letting them run and play in the backyard. Potty training It is crucial how puppies are trained at the beginning of their lives. At TomKings Puppies we are focusing not only on their health but their proper training as well. We start potty training for them so that you have a much easier job! Ultimate Guide. Download our guide! We offer standard and fluffy Award- winning Award-winning bloodline, guaranteed health Every TomKings parent dog has passed a rigorous selection and examination process before we started our elite breeding program to build the healthiest and most Frenchie-authentic gene pool for our TomKings Frenchies. All of our adult dogs and puppies get the highest quality food and supplements to ensure immaculate health, and they are checked by our vet on a weekly basis. Our purebred French bulldogs come with a TomKings Health Guarantee, that is valid against all genetic illnesses. Instead, we treat all of our Frenchies as family members , let them roam freely in our vast green garden and rest with us in our house. Our Frenchie puppies can play as much as they want and we raise them by teaching all the good manners among dogs and people, including children. Maternal love 12 weeks of maternal love and professional care Spending 3 whole months after birth with their caring mother and siblings ensures that TomKings puppies develop a healthy dog-personality and a well-balanced nature. Before joining their new families in the USA and elsewhere, our Frenchies get all the puppy vaccinations, are dewormed and treated against parasites. They travel in a temperature-controlled and pressurized room not stacked on top of suitcases , and they are watched all along the flight. During layovers, the puppies are taken off the plane and placed in a pet hotel, where they are given fresh food, water and lots of pampering. They are sweeter than any airport scenes in romantic movies. Feel free to reach out to us any time with your questions or to share your joy: we answer you immediately 16 hours a day. Amazing and beautiful puppies with truly.Interacts with our family daily and are pee pad trained. They have been exposed to all kinds of snuggles and extra love that.They come from a CKC mom and dad! Both parents are small and compact. Website : Georgianbayfrenchies. Shipping by seller French bulldog puppies London I have 2 litters of French bulldog puppies litter 1 was borne on June 28th and has 6 puppies 3 girls 3 boys. Litter 2 was born July 1 and has 7 puppies 3 girls 4 boys. My puppies are raised under.Best offer. Hamilton We have a beautiful litter of 7 French Bulldogs. Here is what left: 1. Blue boy. Merle boy blue eyes. Merle boy. Shots and deworming are done. Puppies will come with the starter kit. My French bulldog used it when he was weeks old. No damage no dirt or rip. Pickup at Toronto downtown or.Used 1 time. Perfect condition no damage. My dog is a French bulldog used it when he was 3 month old. Pick up at Toronto downtown. I can do shipping as well. He is playful, healthy, beautiful color. Fawn with black mask He is full of character. He loves the outdoors. And playing ball. He gets.Look no further than these rare French bulldogs! These adorable pups are unlike any other Frenchies you'll find on the market, and.Decorative Throw Pillows for Couch Bed Sofa with Zip CoversAn easy fun way to add a pop of colour or bring new life to any room in your home or office is with these beautiful Animal throw pillows. Dress up your bed sofa or lounger with this decorative design art pillows. Shipping by seller French bulldog puppies Mildmay Purebred French bulldog puppies ready to go October 1. Parents have no health issues. His colour is light fawn and his eyes are light brown. Mother is a French bulldog and the dad is a jack russel shih szu mix. She is great with kids and others dogs. Temperament is amazing along with a phenomenal build and body structure. Female 2. Female 3. Male They come vet checked, and fully vaccinated with certificates of health. They are very loving and playful , love.All puppies are born in Ontario, Canada. This is a full hands on kennel with.Shipping by seller French Bulldog Puppies! Cambridge We have 2 beautiful French Bulldogs looking to go to their forever homes. They are 4 months old and are up to date on all vaccines including rabies. Born July 19th. Ready for their furever families September 14th. One male available! Home born and.Amazing and beautiful puppies with truly.Both parents are small and compact. Website : Georgianbayfrenchies. Litter 2 was born July 1 and has 7 puppies 3 girls 4 boys. My puppies are raised under.Best offer. Hamilton We have a beautiful litter of 7 French Bulldogs. Here is what left: 1. Blue boy. Merle boy blue eyes. Merle boy. Shots and deworming are done. Puppies will come with the starter kit. Used 1 time. Perfect condition no damage. My dog is a French bulldog used it when he was 3 month old. Pick up at Toronto downtown. I can do shipping as well. Parents have no health issues. Female 2. Female 3. Male They come vet checked, and fully vaccinated with certificates of health. They are very loving and playful , love.All puppies are born in Ontario, Canada. This is a full hands on kennel with.Cambridge We have 2 beautiful French Bulldogs looking to go to their forever homes. They are 4 months old and are up to date on all vaccines including rabies. Born July 19th. Ready for their furever families September 14th. One male available! Home born and.We have 6 cute puppies in total. PM for more pics and info Blue tan: one boy. They have been raised in a family environment with kids as well as cats. They have started.Pupies were born on July 6th. Parents are on site and puppies raised under foot. Microchipped and vaccinated as well as dewormed. Puppies will go home with a.Our pups are raised in our home and come pre socialized with people including children and other dogs! The French Bulldog is a cross between the bulldog ancestors from England and the local ratters in France. Behaviour-wise, this dog is adaptable, playful and smart. Can we meet in person? Have they been socialised? Lovely Frenchies ready for a new home, super lively, fun and energetic. All six puppies are adored. They are all vet-check, microchipped and wormed. Now just ready to join a family. Have been toilet trained on astro puppy pee mats and are doing great with it. Our babies are raised in our home as part of our family. Each puppy comes with; Registered papers - are from 5 panel DNA clear families - a puppy pack - are Vaccinated - microchipped - wormed - health checked. These puppies are a beautiful representation of the breed and won't be seen at these prices again. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have about these little wonders. Registration number .He has an absolutely beautiful nature, loves people, very devoted. She is so sweet , loves everyone, especially kids. The puppies are raised in a loving family home. They have their own lounge room and access outside to the garden and massive yard. They have had structured play time with the children which they love. Toilet training is going well. Puppies available this weekend or can be viewed prior. Will be have their first vaccination and are wormed regularly. Melissa French bulldog puppies for sale Born 18th August .Two boys and two girls. Taking deposits NOW. We are thrilled to announce the confirmation of our highly anticipated litter of French bulldog puppies, to be born to a magnificent blue Merle father and an enchanting blue dam. Both parents exude elegance and grace with their athletic build, turning heads wherever they go. The father's striking blue Merle coat is adorned with mesmerizing patterns, while the mother's luxurious blue color is simply captivating. Beyond their captivating appearances, both parents possess exceptional temperaments, exhibiting intelligence, loyalty, and affection towards their human companions. They have been lovingly raised in a nurturing environment, ensuring that they pass on their wonderful traits to their offspring. Our commitment to responsible breeding extends to maintaining the utmost care for the health and well-being of our dogs. Both the father and mother have undergone thorough health screenings, with no history of health issues. As a result, we are confident that their offspring will inherit their robust health and vitality. For those truly seeking a lifelong companion of exceptional quality, we warmly invite you to view both parents in person. Witnessing their captivating personalities and impeccable manners will leave no doubt that their progeny will be nothing short of extraordinary. These highly coveted puppies are sure to attract a lot of attention, and thus we respectfully request only serious and committed individuals or families to inquire. The puppies are expected to be ready to go to their loving homes around mid October , so the journey of unconditional love and joy can begin. Please do not hesitate to contact us for any further information or to arrange a viewing. We eagerly await the opportunity to introduce you to these precious little ones and ensure they find the most loving and responsible forever homes. The puppies have - [ ] Worming schedules completed to current age. Vet checked, wormed, vaccinated and microchipped. Puppies have been hand reared and love cuddles and attention. They will be microchipped, vaccinated and wormed regularly before leaving. Parents are healthy, clear of hereditary disease and have good breathing. Parents are fed a high quality diet including raw food. Each puppy will go to their new home with a puppy pack and registration papers from the ANKC. They are raised on premium nutrition and kept in optimal health. Puppies come with comprehensive health contract, LIFETIME breeder support and impressive puppy pack including food, treats, toys, owner gifts, supplies and so much more. Puppies are hand raised in a kennel free, indoor family friendly environment with THE most care. All our animals are owned by our own family and they are family pets and loved ones first and foremost. We can provide real customer feedback of our healthy animals and impeccable service. We are registered breeders and provide pure breed registration papers with our pooches from Master Dog Breeders and Associates. Our member number is .We start toilet training and placing babies on strict routines as soon as possible to ensure take home is simple and dogs are top quality. We also spread breed education, responsible breeding practices awareness and support local shelters and animal fundraising. Please enquire about mains options. Prices are as a pet only. They are very friendly and playful. Bred in our home in a family environment. Our puppies come vet checked, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed fortnightly and pedigree registered with MDBA. We will also send our puppies to their new homes with a comprehensive puppy pack with all the essentials to get you started. We are looking for a family to love her as much as we do. She is currently the only dog and I have 2 primary aged children who she is great with. We have had her since a puppy and she is very easy going. She is used to being home alone while we are at work and school during the week and mixes with other dogs well once a week at doggy day care. She is toilet trained. Microchipped and registered Pure bred with papers from a registered breeder Healthy and Happy with no health issues. Born 13th September Nicole Maddison is a sweet and beautiful 2 year old frenchie. We find her very affectionate and loyal. She is toilet trained, desexed, walks well and up to date on all shots and treatments. Justin Sadly due to my partners allergies to dogs we cannot have her anymore. She is roughly 2 years old. She is in good condition and has been well taken care of. Anne French Bulldog French Bulldog, male ,Blue pied, DOB Geoffery is a very well bred boy with a loving nature, His genetic testing shows he has no health concerns, I would like him to placed into a loving home with a single or older couple. They are vet checked, wormed and vaccinated. They're full of quirky and playful energy. The litter includes 4 pure bred Females and 1 pure bred Male. They are fully microchipped and vaccinated If you wants the pups DNA papers that will be at an extra cost But if your just happy seeing mum an dad DNA papers we have that already Pm me for price an can be negotiated Ruby girl Dialga girl Zippy boy Bluey girl this one has the blue eyes Spotty Evan French bulldog Selling my frenchie as I'm now doing night shift work and don't have the time for her that she needs she's good with kids and other dogs and cats pls msg me for more info she's 11 months old and toilet trained she's an inside dog Donna French Bulldogs Pedigree with Papers DNA and pedigree papers of parents available to see. All pups will come Wormed Vaccinated Microchipped Vet checked With a puppy pack containing puppy food and toy bedding and more. I am happy for Personal meetings to see mum and dad and puppies. I am MDBA registered SnuggleMeadows Exclusive puppies for sale Two adorable boys,with an unusual and rare color, are looking for a new loving home! Boys from purebred parents with excellent DNA. No breathing problems and excellent health. Grown with love and care. Wormed treated - 2, 4, 6 weeks. Please message for Main papers welcome for extra. Alla This is George. Selling due to overseas relocation Greg Fluffy French Bulldog Puppy — Jumanji We have a beautiful frenchie named Jumanji looking for her forever loving home. He has been brought up in a loving home and socialized with our kids and now hes ready to join his new family for many cuddles and lots of kisses.

Harsh punishment during house training. And one important factor for this stinky act is the influence of other dogs. And who is the most influential to your pooch? His mother, of course. They lick the puppies as a way of encouraging them to pass their bowels. And when the little ones do, mommy dog will clean them up by eating their feces. Because of this, puppies develop the habit of eating poop. But it is not only mommy who is at fault. Having more than one German Shepherd, or several dog breeds, under one roof leads to imitation. It is not surprising if they begin to act alike or share the same habits, like snacking on poop. Your four-legged pal is snacking on poop! Stop him, of course! While veterinarians like Dr. Hart revealed that eating poop is natural for canines, it is still important to end the behavior. Well, for one, you would not want to kiss and cuddle with a pooch that reeks of stinking feces! But that is the least of your concerns. It can cause serious health issues, such as parasitic infections. Why is your German Shepherd buddy feasting on disgusting feces? Is he eating enough? And getting all the nutrients that his body needs? Are you giving him enough attention? Or maybe he is suffering from a medical condition? Prompt identification of what is causing the problem is crucial in solving it. But more than that, it will frighten you. What is wrong with my furbaby? A proper health check will reveal things that will help you understand why your dog is acting that way. More importantly, you will be able to find out whether your canine buddy is suffering from an illness or not. And you can help him before it gets too late. From there, you and the vet can develop a plan of action that can help your dog, like giving the necessary medications and administering proper treatments. If it is, then the solution is easy. All you have to do is provide a complete and balanced meal for your big buddy. Omega 3 fatty acids from vegetables. Healthy fat from sources that contain fish oil. Small amounts of digestible carbohydrates from barley, oats, and rice. High-quality protein from whole meat sources like beef and organ meats. The most common deficiency is that of Vitamin B. If this is the case, consider this: What is in the food you give your German Shepherd? Do you feed him enough? Does he need supplements? Consult your vet to find the answers. Then, you can give your pooch the proper supplements he needs to stay healthy and fit. This does not only refer to the inside of the house. The yard also needs to be kept clean, especially if this is where your dog takes his dump. As soon as your German Shepherd does his business, pick up his poop. This might sound like the simplest and most obvious thing to do. Because when he gets bored, he can start munching on anything he finds, poop included. But, attention alone is not enough to keep your pooch away from poop. Proper supervision is essential in stopping coprophagia. Distract the eager canine when he starts sniffing on something debatable. And keep him away from places where there is bound to be dirt and poop. Note: Put your German Shepherd on a leash when you go on walks. But also give him time to run freely in a safe environment, a dog park, for example. And the best way to avoid this feeling is not to punish them. If a German Shepherd is punished for pooping in the house, he may eat his poop in order to get rid of it. This is his attempt to remove the reason which he gets punished for. So, instead of punishing your dog, you can potty train him more effectively. Because if you are too hard on him, you can ruin your relationship. When you successfully do this, your big buddy will slowly ignore his waste after taking a dump. Reward him with a quick treat when he comes to you afterward. This will make him salivate, allowing him to naturally wash his own mouth. Let your dog chew on a dental stick or treat. Just be careful not to push your fingers too far in or your dog might gag. Conclusion It is uncomfortable, disgusting, and quite disappointing to know that your German Shepherd is eating poop. But remember, dogs are inclined to do it. Once you put the tips above into action, your dog will surely steer away from the unwanted behavior. Just make sure you couple your actions with patience, understanding, and love for your best buddy. It is disturbing for me, and I need to fix it. Do not be stunned because GSDs tend to have this issue. It is not only instinctive but a common behavior seen in GSDs. There is nothing wrong with your dog; it is just the way nature has made them. Not only is this their instinctive behavior but there are sometimes reasons behind this behavior in GSDs. In the wild, these dogs live in a pack and stick together. However, this reason for eating poop is not so common in them. This behavior is usually noticed in little pups that have just learned to chew and bite. They pick up tiny pieces of feces of other pups from the floor. This is a way of learning and exploring different things in their environment. Another scenario in which many GSDs are seen eating dung is when they have baby pups that are not able to clean themselves on their own. In such situations, a GS mother usually eats the feces of its little ones in order to keep the place clean. GSDs live in a pack, and there are positions for every member of the pack. The dominant dogs in the pack have the position of a leader and the submissive dogs eat their feces. This usually happens when many GSDs are kept in a single place or the wild. Submissive dogs do so to show obedience and respect to the alpha dogs of the pack. If your GSD lives with other dogs and sees any of them eating poop, it will immediately pick this up as a habit. However, their clever mind can sometimes become a problem for the owners that see them eating their own feces. Many times a GSD will start eating its own dung if it is being punished badly by its owners. Doing so will make your dog used to having the taste of its own feces and it will soon develop it as a habit that you will regret later. Remember, harsh punishments never work well with GSs. Other than that you can adopt the following techniques to put a stop to this embarrassing habit of your dog. These actions will tell your dog that this behavior is not encouraged or approved. Keep your dog under supervision when it is its poo time. Do not use chemical products to make this habit go away. Chemical products that are available in the market are not the best solution for the problem as they work for a few days and then leave side-effects. Chemicals have other effects like bad breath. Give your GSD a proper diet that includes digestive enzymes and probiotics. Make sure your German Shepherd is eating the best dog food available. Do not let your dog be bored because many GSDs will eat their own feces when bored. If your GSD is heading towards its feces, distract it using a toy or treat. It can be a Medical Condition Sometimes dogs eat feces because they need enzymes to digest the food that they eat, called the modern dog feed. The modern dog food is made up of carbohydrates, proteins, and plant proteins. As a result, the dog feels the need to eat its own dung in order to digest its food. They eat their dung because they need proper nutrients for their body, and soon they develop this into a habit. This is a medical condition, and you will need to take your dog to the vet. A proper check-up from a professional will get you to the cause and help you get rid of the problem. Do not lash out on your dog out of disgust. Of course, no one likes to watch their GSDs eating their excreta. However, reacting negatively or hitting your dog will not help either. Get to the root of the problem and figure out an effective solution. If your dog is exhibiting coprophagic behavior, address the problem immediately. Talk to experienced people, and try to find a healthy solution like changing its diet to a more nutritious one. Do not hesitate to ask any GSD related problem and concerns. Last Updated on September 5, by Post navigation. They may act inappropriately or display unwanted aggression toward something harmless. Other times, canines follow instincts that have no basis with humans. Perhaps one of the most unpleasant aspects of pet ownership is coprophagy or eating stool. German Shepherds are just as likely to show this unwanted behavior as any other breed. Some may theorize that instinctive drives are stronger in these dogs because of their resemblance to their wild counterparts. However, there are also other reasons why it occurs that may have health or behavioral roots. Knowing the cause can help you find a way to stop it. New evidence suggests a different path where the two species share a common ancestor. That means some of the hardwiring that existed in the wild may still reside in your German Shepherd. Their canine ancestors lived a life of feast or famine. Coprophagy may be a remnant of those survival instincts. Image Credit: cvop, Pixabay 2. Other animals will also eat feces, such as rabbits, nonhuman primates, and rodents. Maternal Instinct Is at Work Dogs are born helpless at birth. They are utterly dependent upon their mothers. That even covers the most basic things, such as staying warm or eliminating. A female will lick the puppies to encourage them to urinate and defecate. To protect them and themselves, the pup will clean up after the offspring. Another health condition that occurs frequently is thyroid disease. That can manifest itself in stool-eating behavior. Some disorders cause an abnormal increase in appetite, which a pup tries to meet this way. The bacteria interfere with the absorption of nutrients, which a pup will try to meet with other inappropriate sources. A Parasitic Infection May Encourage This Undesirable Behavior An intestinal parasitic infestation can cause similar symptoms, such as an abnormal appetite. The parasites consume the nutrients that the German Shepherd should get from its diet. Dogs can get infected in various ways. One of the most common is eating the feces of other animals, such as rabbits. This breed is an affectionate and loyal dog that is prone to separation anxiety if left alone too often. Failure to provide a mentally stimulating environment can set up the perfect storm for the pet to pick up undesirable behaviors, such as coprophagy. Image Credit: Vach cameraman, Shutterstock Controlling the Problem The first step toward stopping this problem is getting your dog a thorough examination by a vet. As our list shows, several medical reasons may prompt this behavior. Nutrient deficiencies are another common cause. A supplement is also an appropriate way to treat this condition. Your vet will likely recommend follow-up testing if a medical cause is behind the problem. The next steps may focus on the behavioral side. Factors such as separation anxiety or long stretches in a crate can cause a dog to act in this manner. You should also take an active role in preventing it while on walks or at the doggy park. Some of the canine instincts may not make sense to us. Nevertheless, they are perfectly normal in the canine world. Fortunately, correcting unwanted habits like stool eating is possible. It involves finding out the cause behind it and taking the appropriate actions. Coprophagia consumption of feces can be divided into 3 groups. These are: 1. Autocoprophagia: means a dog consuming its own feces 2. Intraspecific coprophagia: the consumption of feces of other dogs 3. Interspecific coprophagia: the consumption of feces of other animals and humans. Studies have shown that, historically, many dogs in developing countries developed a taste for feces while scavenging through trash including feces while trying to scavenge their next meal. While this behavior may seem rather indiscriminate, studies have also shown that the same dogs actually displayed a level of discernment, as they showed a disinclination to consume feces more than 2 days old. Wolves that are old or injured attempt to clean up their den areas that are shared with others by eating their feces. This is because they are intuitievely aware that the feces contains parasites. By consuming the feces within two days of defecating, it is ensured that the feces will be consumed before any parasite eggs hatch and infect any other wolves present. While there are many reasons why GSDs may eat poop, some of the most common reasons are as follows: Underfeeding Hungry dogs, dogs who do not eat regularly, or are starving are more likely to eat the feces of other dogs, animals, and humans. Dogs that eat only once a day and start eating poop may need more daily meals. Malabsorption Sometimes a GSD will eat feces if he is fed poor quality food long-term, especially if the food is high in fat content. Eating poop can also occur in dogs that are nervous, frightened, or under the influence of stress. Stress is a common cause of behavioral problems in dogs. If you feel that this may be the case with your GSD, it may be wise to consult with a dog trainer or behaviorist. A solution may be as simple as alleviating boredom. Other times, a GSD may see another dog eating feces, so he will want to try it too. It is also not uncommon for a young puppy to see his mother eating feces. It is common for a puppy to then simply imitate the behavior. Punishment If a GSD is being verbally scolded for pooping in the house, he may resort to eating his own feces in an attempt to make it disappear — no body, no crime! It is for this reason that it is very important to never scold your dog for pooping in the house. The true solution is proper potty training. For a detailed understanding of how to potty train your GSD puppy, I have written an excellent article for you right here. For example, when intestinal parasites are present, they exhaust the body and draw nutrients from it, causing your dog to feel increased hunger. A very common cause of this issue in German shepherds can be the Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI. This is a condition characterized by a lack of digestive enzymes, which results in the inability to digest food properly, and thus leads to the inability to absorb nutrients. A dog suffering from this disease loses weight despite its good appetite and suffers from frequent and abundant diarrhea. Diabetes One of the causes of increased appetite and coprophagia as well can be diabetes. When cortisol levels are too high or too low, it can cause a host of problems. Attention-Seeking Behavior A German Shepherd may eat poop simply as a way provoke his owner into reacting. This is not too different than the behavior of a child when it wants attention. And, just like when dealing with a child, it is very important that you keep your cool if this is happening with your GSD. Reacting to it will only serve to reinforce the behavior. Forced and Restricting Confinement German Shepherds need space. This is why we highly recommend owning a GSD only if you have a large living space and preferably a yard. This is very common in GSDs that have been rescued after spending time in a crowded shelter. For more information on German Shepherd space requirements, check out this great article that we have for you right here. Living In Isolation German Shepherds are especially social dogs — much more so than other breeds. It is for this reason that they do not do well living in isolation. In fact, GSDs are highly susceptible to separation anxiety. As previously mentioned, anxiety can be a cause for poop eating behavior. For more information on GSD separation anxiety, take a look at this informative article. Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet for this one. There are, however, a few actions that you can take to curb this behavior if you feel that it is problematic. Make sure that you guide him away from eating poop while the behavior is under your control Properly Socialize Your German Shepherd As a German shepherd owner, you have to be prepared for long walks and running, because your dog needs them, at least twice a day. If possible, allow your dog to socialize with other dogs, which, along with a quality relationship with his owner, will help help him to avoid boredom and anxiety — both common reasons for a dog eating poop. A happy and occupied GSD will be less likely to engage in poop eating behavior. For a through guide on how to socialize your German Shepherd, we have a great article for you right here. It contains all that you need to know in order to successfully socialize your GSD. Instead of one meal, divide the daily amount of food into several meals, so that your dog does not feel hungry during the day. In my experience, dogs that eat balanced raw or cooked foods are less likely to consume feces. Feed Your German Shepherd a Holistic Diet Feeding a holistic diet to your dog works to get to the root of a problem, rather than just addressing the symptoms as they arise. For example, using an anti-itch cream may lessen the desire to itch, but it will not address the underlying problem. A holistic diet works to resolve the issue of your dog itching in the first place. Think of resolving health or behavioral issue as a series of connecting the dots — this can be a complicated process. A holistic approach to feeding your dog can make it so that there are no dots to connect in the first place by erasing the cause of them. The fundamentals of a holistic diet include: Probiotics: great for digestive system support Prebiotics: great for digestive system support High-quality protein: based in fish, beef, pork, or chicken Herbs: great to prevent inflammation Vitamins: essential for overall organ and bone health Minerals: essential for overall organ and bone health Antioxidants: great for immune system support and disease prevention Fiber: great for digestive system support Whole grains: contain high-quality carbohydrates for energy If preparing a holistic diet for your GSD is too time consuming for you, a great alternative is Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food. This blend contains ingredients that include precise amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that have been selected by animal nutritionists and, importantly, holistic veterinarians. In addition, if your GSD is suffering from diarrhea or related issues, beneficial bacterias in probiotics are a great way to boost them back to normal levels. These products usually come in different forms, such as yogurt, kefir, powders, capsules, chews, or dog foods. This probiotic contains a blend of 7 selected species of live beneficial bacteria with added Inulin. Your GSD is likely acting out of instinct, stress, or as an attempt to resolve a digestive or health issue. Just remember to be patient and understanding with your GSD, and have confidence that you will be able to curb this behavior. German Shepherds may eat their own poop for any number of reasons. Dietary deficiency, diseases, copycat behavior, behavioral problems, and even ancient genetic instincts may be reasons why your GSD eats their own stool, as the American Kennel Club AKC points out. This term applies equally to dogs, cats, and other pets. In the rest of this article, we will talk about the many reasons why you might catch your German Shepherd eating their own stool. While it is unlikely your dog is physically feeling hunger pangs when they go to eat their stool, it is quite possible there is an underlying dietary deficiency driving the behavior. As VCA Animal Hospitals explains, dietary deficiency in dogs can arise from a number of different potential causes. As this iFeeder report indicates, analyzing pet foods is big business in and of itself, and there is a lot of money riding on manufacturer reputation. So often you have to look for other clues — such as poop eating — to detect when there may be a mismatch. When a dog is missing certain vital nutrients, they may go back to their own poop to try to absorb more nutrition from each portion of the food they eat. This is a practice that is so essential for some mammals such as guinea pigs that they die if not permitted to engage in coprophagy. Luckily, dogs do not have a genetic nutritional need to eat their poop. But they may do so if their diet is chronically lacking. Your dog has parasites When your dog has parasites, they are essentially eating for the parasites as well as for their own health and nutrient needs. Unfortunately, eating poop is one of the primary ways that a dog can pick up parasites like hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm in the first place, as Vetz Insight explains. But it is not the only potential trigger. Deficiencies in certain key digestive enzymes may also be a culprit. As PetMD explains, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or EPI, is the best-known medical problem that can result in coprophagy in dogs. The pancreas is responsible for producing a number of important digestive enzymes along with insulin. The latter is caused by defective cells. The former can be genetic or induced and may also be triggered by canine diabetes. Ongoing issues with diarrhea. Increased stool output. Eating stool. Interestingly, some German Shepherds that only seem to want to eat the stool of a particular dog may actually be responding to disease in the other dog. This can include stool, although it can also extend to other non-food objects like rocks, grass, leaves, stones, sticks, fabrics, and more. While most cases of pica are considered to be linked to behavior rather than medical problems, with coprophagy there can be a clear medical component as well. If your German Shepherd has a tendency to eat poop and other items that are not on the menu of a typical canine or are not on any menu at all , your pet may be suffering from pica. Your German Shepherd Dog Eats Poop for Behavioral Reasons If your dog has been evaluated and tested and your canine veterinarian has ruled out a possible medical cause for coprophagia, the other main area to look at is behavioral. In other words, German Shepherds that are healthy otherwise may still choose to eat their own poop. But why, you are probably wondering? This is what we will look at in the next section. GSD puppies, like all puppies, rely on the mother dog to lick them and remind them to do their business. Learning how to poop on their own is a big part of early puppyhood. It is a big deal! When your GSD puppy came home with you, potty training became a big part of daily life. Your puppy probably got lots of attention and praise when it was potty time and things went well. In the same way, if your puppy pooped in the house, they likely got quite a bit of attention for this as well — you might not have been happy about it, but your puppy was because your attention was focused on them. As Canine Journal explains, a poorly trained and socialized or previously traumatized German Shepherd may resort to poop eating rather than seeking attention in more positive and acceptable ways. This outdated and ineffective form of training is now thought to actually encourage coprophagia in dogs that have been subjected to it. The dog may start to eat their poop to hide it and avoid further discipline. Along the same lines, German Shepherd dogs can be especially prone to developing separation anxiety, which is another behavioral issue that is linked to poop eating. Your German Shepherd is acting out of instinct While this explanation walks a fine line between genetics and behavior, wild canid females have often been observed eating the feces of their young to try to remove the scent and throw potential predators off the trail. But what about when male puppies or adult GSDs do this? In this case, canid behaviorists think it may have to do with puppies watching their mother eat poop and picking up the behavior from her. After all, canid pups in the wild have to learn everything from their mother and would be carefully watching and mimicking everything she does — including eating their own poop. According to a research study reported in Live Science , the majority of dog owners that have tried to discourage stool eating in their dogs have experienced low or no success. However, this is not to say it is impossible to train your dog not to eat their own poop. You will just need a lot of patience and persistence to find what works to discourage your German Shepherd from eating poop. This will require consistent, determined effort on your part. You will need to watch your GSD closely on potty breaks and quickly remove the feces and dispose of it in a secure location. If your dog goes out at night or early in the morning, you will need to bring a flashlight to make sure you see where the poop is and can pick it up right away. Then you will reinforce this with praise, pats, treats, and attention. This way, you always know where to look to pick up the stool and your GSD is not lingering near it long enough to potentially eat it. But to dogs, it is quite possible they just eat poop because they like it! This can have an unexpected benefit if you need to train your GSD not to eat their own poop. As PetCareRX highlights, there are soft chews and additives available that may change the taste of the poop to make it undesirable. Foods like zucchini and pineapple can also change the tastebuds and may make poop and everything else taste different from your dog. Use a head or muzzle restraint This is not an ideal choice for training your German Shepherd dog not to eat poop for two reasons. One, restraints can be difficult to manage and your dog may be very determined to get out of a neck cone or head collar. And two, if your dog decides to mash their muzzle or restraint down on the poop to try to eat it anyway, then you have to clean it and your dog. But if nothing else is working, it is certainly worth a try. For example, if your GSD has developed separation anxiety, this can require special and intense training to overcome. You may need to temporarily put your dog in a daycare program or hire a dog sitter to keep your anxious GSD from eating their own poop. Alternately, if your German Shepherd hates their crate or some other aspect of their living space, you may need to explore an alternate arrangement for when you need to confine your dog. German Shepherds are extremely intelligent working dogs that have been bred for more than a century to work hard at difficult, demanding, and sometimes dangerous jobs. Your dog may be bored and lonely and acts out because eating poop is something to do to fill the time. You may find that adding more canine athletics, taking your dog for more walks, adding some additional playtime, and using more puzzle toys and treat toys work to tire out your dog and keep poop eating behavior at bay. Remember, above all else, your German Shepherd dog wants your attention, time, and love. More of you often equals less eating poop.