labrador great dane puppy

labrador great dane puppy

A close up face image of Labradoodle puppy Max The price depends on many factors and can vary from breeder to breeder. While this might seem like a hefty price to pay for a puppy, the low prices that you find on social media or other ads are usually from puppy mills that try to over-breed these beloved animals in inappropriate and unethical ways. Low-quality living conditions notwithstanding, puppies from such places have a high probability of suffering from ailments and issues caused by genetic mutations occurring from rapid breeding. Labradoodle costs around the world In Australia the average prices for non-shedding Labradoodles ranged from AUD. There were some niche breeders that charged much more. Depending on how unique the coat color is, the price will vary. Parti-colored Labradoodles like Tuxedo Labradoodle or Phantom Labradoodle cost significantly more than a solid-colored cream, black, or gold Labradoodle. Sometimes, depending on your location, you may have to shell out extra dollars if you specifically want a multi-colored Labradoodle. Coat texture is another influencing factor. Shiny, sleek coats are more attractive and an indication of a superior bloodline. Hence, they are going to cost more. Curly and wavy-haired Labradoodles will be more expensive than straight-haired ones as they are almost non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Blue-eyed Labradoodles can be even more expensive, owing to their rarity and beauty. Labradoodle Size As they are crossbred, there are no specific breeding standards for Labradoodles. Most breeders classify Labradoodle puppy sizes as standard, medium, and miniature. Toy, teacup, miniature, and maxi are some other terms used to describe the size of Labradoodle dogs. The smaller the puppy size, the higher its price. This is because of the increased demand for smaller-sized dogs. Some breeders have their own standards and classifications when it comes to dog size and weight. While some breeders consider pound dogs as petite, others see them as miniature. Micro and petit are other terms that are used, both interchangeably and independently by different breeders. Usually, petit dogs fall in the pounds range, and micro dogs under 10 pounds. Age Typically, most people prefer buying a young puppy rather than a full-grown dog. Hence, prices are higher for puppies than dogs. For instance, a 6-month-old puppy is going to cost less than a 6-week-old one. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Generation Type Another determining factor is the percentage of each parent breed in the Labradoodle puppy. F1B generations have a purebred Poodle and an F1 generation Labradoodle as their parents. While this is a rarer generation, they are cheaper as their chances of being hypoallergenic is lesser than that of others. Generally, F1B Labradoodles are the most expensive generation as they have the highest chance of being hypoallergenic. Location and Demand The Labradoodle breed is one of the most popular crossbreed dogs, a close second to the Goldendoodles. This has significantly increased their value and demand. Dog breeders of bigger cities will have a large client pool and higher earnings. They usually have a hard time keeping up with the demands and hence have to increase their price. Breeders from rural areas have comparatively lower demand and charge less for their puppies. Nevertheless, the demand for low-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs is high everywhere, regardless of the size and popularity of a place. While it might be cheaper to buy your Labradoodle puppy from a rural breeder, you might still have to beat your budget to travel the extra distance or to have the puppy transferred to you. Although the low prices advertised at puppy mills might be tempting, getting a Labradoodle puppy from a reputed breeder is always a better option. Besides being spayed, neutered, and vaccinated, puppies from reputed breeders will also be appropriately socialized. This will make it easier for them to adapt to their new home. Most reputable breeders establish their prices based on their experience, investment, knowledge, credentials, and reputation with previous customers. Some breeders even incorporate training from a young age, and some puppies are potty trained at just eight weeks old. Reputed breeders also have health certificates and genetic records of both parent dogs in place. These certificates are proof that your Labradoodle is in the best of health and hygiene. Other Costs Associated With Labradoodles The preliminary cost of a Labradoodle will be substantially less than the total expenses involved throughout its life. Additionally, you might have to spend more on training foods and treats. Grooming The grooming needs of Labradoodles may vary depending on the type and length of their coat. Although Labradoodles are almost hypoallergenic, they need regular brushing and bathing. Medical Costs Most crossbreed dogs are usually less prone to ailments and diseases. Their larger gene pool also reduces their risk of inheriting diseases. One of the most common health issues with Labradoodle is hip dysplasia. And the surgical procedure to fix this is expensive, which is especially necessary for older Labradoodles. Besides this, there are other health care costs like vaccinations and regular veterinarian check-ups Ohio State Veterinary School source. It safeguards you against any unforeseen situations that may arise in the future with regard to its health. Training and Boarding Costs Although Labradoodles are very intelligent and highly trainable, it is advisable to enroll them in a professional training program to ensure their all-round development. It also helps address their excessive barking and jumping, which is common in Labradoodles. Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that can turn destructive when left alone for a long time. So whenever you go on trips, you will have to leave them at a doggie care center. Can Labradoodles smile? Ideally, you should purchase an adjustable crate whose length you can adjust as and when your puppy grows. Labradoodles are highly energetic dogs who need toys to maintain their mental stimulation and to keep them from getting destructive due to boredom. You might also have to make a one-time investment on a good quality bed as they often tend to chew and scratch at it. Labradoodle Adoption Price While you may want to get your Labradoodle puppy from a shelter, the chances are slim as Labradoodles are highly sought-after breeds that are usually kept in tight breeding groups. This is usually done to cover the cost of medical and maintenance care. Adopting a puppy from a rescue shelter is a noble idea, but you must also prepare to deal with any possible future problems with their health and temperament, as rescue dogs usually have health and behavior problems. My Miniature Labradoodle Max wearing a stylish rain coat Avoiding Disreputable Breeders The pet business has now emerged as one of the biggest industries worldwide. Unfortunately, this has also birthed unethical puppy mills, backyard breeders, and online pet stores, who have little to no knowledge about raising and nurturing puppies. Often, unsuspecting pet lovers trying to save some money fall prey to these tricks and end up with an unhealthy puppy with health and temperamental issues. This leads to them spending a lot of money on the treatment and maintenance of these puppies down the road. So, is there a way to distinguish between good and bad breeders and avoid paying exorbitant prices by accidentally supporting these puppy mills? Start by doing plenty of research on the breeder and consciously avoid backyard breeders, pet stores, and online stores. Additionally, look out for these red flags: Unusually low-priced puppies. The breeder refuses to show the living conditions of their dogs and puppies. Adult dogs are kept in harsh conditions and small cages. Puppies seem reserved, edgy, and nervous around people. The breeder has no health certificates of puppies and its parent dogs. Breeder refuses to provide any paperwork. Here are some standards and conventions practiced by trustworthy breeders: They breed puppies indoors and will take equal care of the parent dogs. They offer ample space and freedom to their puppies and dogs to run, play, sleep, and do everything they desire. They periodically clean and groom the dogs. They promote a healthy bonding of puppies with their mother and littermates. They try to gauge if you are capable of raising a particular dog breed. They offer tips and tricks on puppy care and maintenance. They have health and vaccination certificates from a licensed veterinarian. They offer proper legal protection like providing a guarantee for puppy replacement after around 1. Going through previous testimonials and customer reviews is another way of determining the credibility of a breeder. Find out how long the breeder has been in the business. Have a proper conversation with them and get all your puppy-related questions answered before you decide to get your puppy from them. With their love and affection, these bundles of joy can not only turn your bad days into wonderful ones, their high intelligence and alert minds also make them great guard dogs. Before purchasing a Labradoodle puppy, make sure to research the breeder and never get puppies from breeders who cannot provide health certificates for the puppies and their parents. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. We are happy to refund deposits any time for any reason. We will clearly announce the pricing for each mini Labradoodle litter in a litter announcement. Apply Now If you are interested in a miniature Labradoodle puppy please consider filling out the application. Years ago, we'd announce litters to nearly people on an email waiting list. Within the first minute or two, the entire litter would be spoken for, and families who received a doodle puppy felt like they'd won the lottery. Since then, we've developed a thorough application process, seeking the very best mini Labradoodle forever homes. Please do not place a mini Labradoodle deposit unless your doodle application is accepted. We seek to fairly and thoroughly evaluate each miniature Labradoodle application within business days at which point we let you know the answer for your mini Labradoodle application: "yes," "no," or "wait. Your mini Labradoodle application does NOT obligate you to give a deposit or adopt a mini Labradoodle puppy. The mini Labradoodle application is simply your first step to express a level of interest in getting a mini Labradoodle puppy. After giving a deposit, your family would receive mini Labradoodle litter announcements in an effort to match you with the perfect miniature Labradoodle. Each adopting family has the option to pass on as many Labradoodle litters as they want until finding the perfect doodle puppy. Seeking to be the best mini Labradoodle breeders, we refund doodle deposits any time for any reason. It doesn't make sense to us why nearly every other mini Labradoodle breeder requires non-refundable deposits. We have FAR more demand than supply for our mini Labradoodles. Your application helps us determine if your family would make an excellent forever home to one of our precious mini Labradoodle puppies. We have no desire to keep a family's mini Labradoodle deposit if they've located a mini doodle with another breeder or if they've chosen not to get a mini Labradoodle at all. While this is not actually required, it is highly suggested since it covers vet bills and emergency treatments for injuries. Most of these are optional except for emergency treatments. Owners who need service dogs should be prepared to spend more on special training classes. Dog Walking: Getting a Labradoodle means you get an active dog. For times when you cannot take your dog for a walk or play with them, you can hire a dog walker instead. Medical Emergencies: Expenses for medical emergencies are preferably avoided but are to be prepared for anyway. Accessories and Clothes: If you enjoy dressing up your Labradoodle, you would also want to buy different clothes and accessories for them. There are a lot of places that sell these, so you can either save or splurge. Again, these expenses can arise at specific points in time and can be optional. They also depend on you and how you want to spend on your Labradoodle. You can actually look for this popular breed from breeders or rescue shelters. Given that Labradoodles are well-loved and highly coveted, the chances of you finding this breed are pretty high. Here are some reputable breeders where you can find Labradoodle puppies for sale: Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles — This reputable breeder was from Connecticut and is now based on a acre family farm in West Wisconsin. They specialize in standard-sized Labradoodles that are guaranteed to be in good health. They offer a two-year health guarantee against hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other genetic conditions. You can visit their website to check for available pups. Interested buyers are assured that their puppies undergo proper health testing and screenings, as well as microchipping and vaccinations. Their pups are also socialized early and are subject to a weekly training program. They specialize in breeding mini and medium-sized Labradoodles. You can find more breeders in our article on the 10 best Labradoodle breeders that are based in different states. While browsing, be sure to read our puppy buying guide so you can safely buy your Labradoodle online. An alternative to shopping for a Labradoodle is to adopt one from shelters, rescues, or adoption sites. They have been trusted and have been working hard for Labradoodles since .You can visit their website to learn more about their adoption process and see the available Labradoodles looking for their forever homes. Doodle Rescue Collective, Inc. They are dedicated to protecting Labradoodles and educating owners and dog enthusiasts. Labs and More — This rescue organization based in San Diego, California, has rescued more than 12, dogs since .They rescue large dogs and mixed breeds, including Labradoodles. You can visit their website, where they have a guide before adopting for those interested. Head over to our 10 best Labradoodle rescues article to find even more options and increase your chances of finding a Labradoodle. You can also visit your local shelter to look for Labradoodles up for adoption. Money-Saving Tips for Labradoodle Owners Knowing that taking care of Labradoodles costs a significant amount, any Labradoodle owner would want to save a few bucks in any way they can. To help, we came up with some cost-effective ways to care for your pooch. Here are some ways to cut down on expenses for your Labradoodle: Groom your Labradoodle at home. While professional groomers can save you time and provide proper grooming thanks to their training and skills, there is no doubt that they can charge quite a bit. Learning how to do basic grooming yourself, especially since this hybrid has a low shedding coat, can surely save you some money. Grooming sessions at home can also serve as quality time with your canine companion. Make dog food yourself. Store-bought dog food and treats are convenient, but the cost adds up. You can try making dog food at home, instead. Not only does this allow you to control what exactly you are feeding your pet, but it can also be cheaper. Buy good-quality items. Getting items that are of good quality and durable can be more expensive at the time of purchase but will actually save you money in the long run. Take your Labradoodle for regular vet visits. Emergency treatments and procedures often cost more than regular vet visits and can help you avoid an unhealthy puppy. Knowing what items to invest in and what to avoid can significantly reduce the cost of owning a Labradoodle. A little creativity and strategizing will go a long way. The expenses for this designer breed are far from cheap. However, you should know that this is nothing out of the ordinary since many popular crossbreed dogs also have similar costs. If you are one of the many people interested in Labradoodles, I hope this guide has helped you decide whether owning one is worth all the investment. We would love to hear your thoughts and insights in the comments below! Owners of Labradoodles are also welcome to share their tips and experiences on the different Labradoodle costs. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. However, some pups exchange hands for even more, if they have something which makes them especially desirable examples of what that might be coming up! You may also see Labradoodle puppies advertised for far less. This should be a red flag. A good breeder spends a great deal of money to produce a healthy litter. The costs of breeding a healthy litter include: Health screening for the parents. Travel and accommodation to meet a suitable stud dog. Veterinary costs for mom and her litter. Extra food. Whelping supplies, such as a whelping box, heat mats, and bedding. Time off work to look after mom, and start socializing her puppies. Backyard breeders, puppy mills, and online sellers may offer puppies at bargain prices, but only by cutting their own costs first. So their puppies are more likely to leave home with inherited health problems that require expensive treatment later. Or with behavioral problems like separation anxiety or stranger-directed aggression, which are difficult or impossible to overcome. Lots of people are overwhelmed by the upfront cost of a well bred puppy. Adopting a dog from a shelter is one way to find a dog for less, but without supporting unethical breeding practices. And some regions even have dedicated rescue organizations which specialize in rehoming Labradoodles and other Poodle crosses. This is a much less expensive route and adoption fees often cover things like initial vaccinations and microchipping. Such as whether they carry any late-onset inherited diseases, or are reactive to certain triggers. What Factors Determine Labradoodle Cost? There are a number of factors which may make people willing to pay more for a Labradoodle. Breeder Good breeders are rarely in it for the money. Even if they sell their puppies for a more money than they spent on them, the profit divided by the number of hours they spent caring the dam and her litter works out in cents! All breeders have their own personal philosophy on pricing pups. They might have a reputation and a waiting list which means they can charge more than the competition. They might also charge highly to deter people from buying their puppies on impulse. Provided you ask politely, a reputable breeder will be happy to explain how they arrived at the cost of their puppies. But a breeder who refuses to discuss how they set their price at all may be attempting to cover up the fact that their puppies have been very poorly raised and are not worth the asking price. Breeding Stock Breeders who invest in meticulous health screening of their sire and dam may pass the cost of that onto their buyers, and they have every right to do so. Puppies from thoroughly health tested parents cost more upfront, but they are likely to cost less in lifetime veterinary fees. Labradoodle puppies from parents with show or field titles may also be advertised at higher prices. The puppies of Labradoodles that have been backcrossed with a purebred Poodle will have a greater chance of inheriting the Poodle coat. Other factors There are other things which might affect Labradoodle costs too. For example, in cities and urban areas, miniature Labradoodles might command higher prices than standard Labradoodles. Some factors have nothing to do with the dog at all. For example, many reputable breeders avoid producing litters around Christmas time to avoid buyers passing them on as gifts to other people, or buying them on impulse without really thinking it through. Low quality breeders on the other hand, tend to push their prices up at this time of year. The Cost of Owning a Labradoodle in the First Year Whether you go a shelter or a breeder, adoption fees and purchase price are only the beginning of what it costs to own a Labradoodle. The first year will typically be the most expensive because this is when most major expenses occur. Such as Having the dog spay or neutered. Training classes. Accessories like a crate, bedding, toys, collar and leash. Labradoodles have a high frequency of joint disorders such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which may require expensive monthly prescriptions to manage. Bringing a puppy into your life comes with the responsibility to keep him healthy and happy. From food to medical costs, from toys to grooming, there a number of regular expenses that come with owning a dog. Food is such an essential part of ensuring your dog is healthy and there is a wide range of commercial dog foods available. You can spend tens, or hundred of dollars per month! Always choose a good quality food that lists animal protein as the first ingredient and avoid brands that include meat by-products, fillers, and artificial ingredients that can cause gastrointestinal problems and allergic reactions. This article on feeding a Labradoodle puppy can guide you. Feeding your dog a healthy diet and ensuring an active dog like the Labradoodle gets enough exercise will go a long way to reducing medical costs. However, any dog can develop health issues that require treatment that can run into thousands of dollars. Health problems that the Labradoodle can be susceptible to include: Hip and elbow dysplasia. 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.

Buy Now American bulldog I'm selling 8 week old American bulldogs with first set of shots. View Detail American bulldogs These puppies are 8 weeks old and have there first shots. If you're interested my phone number is xxx-xxx-xxxx. Mother on Dad on site. Temperment very mild loving family dogs. But very good as guard or hunting. Energetic and working is there thing. She is growing fast and has a great appetite. She enjoys eating , running and playing outside. She is very healthy and happy and will be a great addition to your family. If there is a need for shipping or delivery, I will be glad to discuss and answer any of your questions directly. Very friendly. .Owner of the Mom and Dad American Bullies! We have total of 7 puppie Born on Christmas day! Awesome Puppies! She enjoys playing outside, she will rough play but gets annoyed pretty quickly. She also doesnt need alot of outside time, maybe min at most and she will let you know when its time to go because she will walk turtle slow if not already on leash. Didnt plan this. .They need good loving homes View Detail Registered Puppy This beautiful four month old male puppy will make a great member to any family. He is white with brown patches thoughout body. Very friendly and playful. We specialize in Bully-type, also sometimes referred to as Johnson American Bulldogs. However on occasion we do produce fantastic standard- and hybrid-type American Bulldogs. We breed for functional and balanced temperament allowing for the American Bulldog to be a family member and a companion while having the drive and intelligence to perform desired functions. At Grand Future, we typically produce large American Bulldogs. Males range in lbs and females range in lbs. We have always bred to a significantly stricter breed standard than the current American Bulldog breed standards under U. Dogs with the following characteristics are not shown at conformation shows nor bred in our kennel: 1. Full black mask — this genetic trait is usually a result of another breed having been infused into the gene pool. Usually a dog with a kinked tail itself is not at risk of health complications as a result of the kinked tail. Teeth — dogs missing more than 3 teeth. Dogs lacking full pigmentation are more susceptible to various health problems. Lack of pigment is also responsible for deafness in dogs. We have never produced a deaf dog. Interested in a puppy? We have many repeat buyers — over 30 families have purchased 2,3,4, and even 5 dogs. Our dogs generally love children and have balanced temperament. Having produced over dogs in 7 generations, we have history and data that allows us to make some conclusions that we believe are significant. The very common problem of hip dysplasia that afflicts this breed is nearly non-existent in our kennel. Our dogs tend to have normal locomotion — good movement due to anatomically sound physical structure. Our dogs have never torn ligaments such as the Canine Cruciate Ligament CCL , which leads us to conclude that such problems are likely hereditary in nature. Our dogs have never prematurely died from heart problems, which leads us to conclude that such problems are likely hereditary in nature. Our dogs have never been diagnosed with tracheal hypoplasia — a hereditary genetic defect common in bulldog breeds that leads to potential deadly obstruction of the airway. Our dogs tend to live long. Our foundation dog lived to the age of 15 years and 10 months old. Our dogs have never been afflicted with cancer at a young age. The earliest instance of cancer has been encountered at 8 years of age by one dog. The remainder of cases have been documented at over 10 years of age. The biggest tragedy for an owner is in having to care for a sick dog as a result of poor breeding, and be absolutely helpless as that dog passes in their arms. Exorbitant medical bills end up being paid to prolong the time together even by just a little with the beloved family member. As with any animal breeding program, our kennel is not immune from problems. This drives us to continually improve. We maintain contact and help our owners in any way we can; even at 4AM or during a vacation since we have owners all over the world in various timezones. Our breeding expertise enables us to deliver healthy, beautiful, strong, and intelligent American Bulldog puppies. We provide a contractual health guarantee against the following genetic health problems — hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Canine Cruciate Ligament CCL ruptures, cataracts, entropion, ectropion, heart, kidneys, thyroid, ichthyosis, cryptorchidism, epilepsy, and any neurological disorders including NCL. Our conversation with a prospective owner always involves questions to understand the kind of dog the person would like — the more details the better. If so inclined, the prospective owner can request guidance in picking the puppy based on personality and activity level, temperament, phenotype, and more. We evaluate our puppies at 6 weeks of age on a variety of parameters. We provide lifetime unlimited advice and guidance by phone to owners concerning all subjects relating to dog ownership. You can be sure you will have the information you need to succeed even if this is going to be your first American Bulldog puppy. Because we stand by the quality of our work, we want our owners to participate in our breeding program and we are happy to provide the necessary guidance. Our dogs are also ideal candidates for service animal work. Training a service dog requires a significant investment of time and money, making the genetic health and temperament of the dog even more critical. A service dog needs to be healthy, hassle-free, intelligent and receptive to training, have stable temperament to handle any type of environment, and of course lead a long life disease-free. All of these selective requirements for service dog candidates make Grand Future American Bulldogs an ideal fit. Join us in our mission of producing the best American Bulldogs possible! Professional worry-free shipping worldwide Of course our preference is for you to come visit our home, get acquainted with us, and pick up your new American Bulldog puppy in person. However, we understand that it is not feasible for everyone. Even if you do not live anywhere near Nevada, do not be concerned — we are highly experienced at shipping our American Bulldog puppies worldwide, as even just the list of our Grand Champions and Champions spanning 9 nations attests. We can prepare all necessary export documentation. Search this website. Exercise Grooming In the past, the English bulldog was used by foreign immigrants who moved to South America and brought their dogs with them. The breed, however, became close to extinction after the second world war. Some breeders, John D. Johnson, and Alan Scott kept infusing several bulldogs together in the bid to breed the American Bulldog while monitoring its health and capabilities. Today, the American bulldog is completely rid of the fear of being extinct and has become one of the most popular dog breeds in the country. The American bulldog is many sizes larger than the English Bulldog; however, they are quite similar when it comes to their temperament. It is basically a huge, cuddly, lap dog that loves children and is very affectionate. It is brave, confident and extremely loyal to its owners. They can be quite reserved when around strangers as they like to mark their territories. When trained from a young age, the American Bulldog will display an impressive level of intelligence. They are not so friendly with other strange dogs and mostly like to keep to themselves. As earlier stated, the American bulldog is a fun-loving, happy dog that thrives in a family setting. The perfect environment for this breed would be a home with a large backyard that is well fenced-in. Since they are very energetic and must be kept active, it is imperative to their growth that they have ample space to run around during the day. This is crucial for their mental and physical well-being. For dog lovers who live in apartments, the American bulldog might not be the best option for them. This is because there is inadequate space for them and being left alone would adversely affect their mental health. They can also become very irritable and destructive if left alone for long periods as they need constant mental and physical stimulation. The American Bulldog needs about two hours of outdoor exercise on a daily basis. It goes without saying that this breed is not suitable for people who work many hours every day. This dog breed requires basic physical and mental stimulation like jogging, walking, chasing balls, playing fetch, farm work, agility, and basic obedience exercises. Due to the temperament of the American Bulldog, it has to get as much exercise preferably in the outdoors. If its exercise requirements are not consistently met, this dog breed will take out its frustration in your home by chewing apart and basically destroying everything it comes in contact with while running around. The American Bulldog has quite a short coat with a minimized length and this feature makes it easy to groom. Brushing their coats weekly is usually enough when it comes to grooming the American Bulldog as they do not shed a lot. They also need thorough baths weekly or as needed as this will keep the shedding in check. Our American Bulldog puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. American Bulldogs love routine and will adapt to an exercise and grooming routine if the owner enforces it perfectly. As loyal dogs, they love to please their owners but will only obey upon frequent reinforcements. Do American Bulldogs shed a lot? Since they do not have a lot of fur, they do not shed a lot and owners will not have a lot of hair to clean up, unlike many other dog breeds. Why do American Bulldogs have webbed feet? This is mainly due to genetics and is not a cause for concern. Should American Bulldogs be spayed? Many vets advise that American Bulldog owners should ensure their pets are neutered or spayed when it is between four and nine months. How often should American Bulldogs be fed? The American bulldog has a very large appetite in its formative years. They must, therefore, be fed very often about four times daily and in double portions when they are puppies right until they turn four. Are American Bulldogs a food fit in families? The American bulldog will fit right into your family. They love kids and tend to gravitate towards them. Do American Bulldogs have common health problems? A lot of the health problems experienced by American bulldogs are mostly genetic and do not affect the entire breed. These ailments could range from the kidney to thyroid disorders and a lot more. What is the American Bulldogs life expectancy? The American bulldog has an average lifespan ranging from ten to fifteen years. What is the American Bulldogs average size? The average American Bulldog can grow to 58kg for males and 41kg for females. However, it is important that their diets are closely monitored to keep them from getting overweight. How tall do American Bulldogs get? The male American bulldog can grow as tall as 71cm while its female counterpart can grow up to 61cm. If you want a loyal, smart and incredibly active dog, then the American Bulldog is the perfect fit for you. Are you interested in purchasing a American Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in Miami FL? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Miami FL? The experience of Miami Boxer breeders will affect the price of each pup, as will their eye color, coat color, and markings. Can I only choose pups from Boxer breeders in Miami? We think that one of the best things about Uptown is that we work with a nationwide network of businesses and companies. You can even arrange to meet your new pup at your nearest major airport! How do you screen breeders with Boxer puppies in Miami? Uptown Puppies uses a rigorous application process to ensure that we only work with the best companies and businesses out there. All companies within our network have to sign our binding Breeder Pledge - a set of guidelines they must agree to adhere to. How is Uptown Puppies different to anywhere else? When searching for Miami Boxers for sale online it can be hard to tell the difference between honest businesses and scams or puppy mills. Many of the top results will be companies with the best marketing. That doesn't mean they have the best Boxer puppies for sale Miami though. What is a puppy mill like? Puppy mills are awful operations where profit is more important than the welfare of pups and parent dogs. Are there any Boxer puppies available right now? The first thing to do is start looking at our listings for Boxer for sale in Miami. We know there are some seriously cute pups on offer from companies in our network - your dream pup is waiting for you! Where are Boxer dogs from? The Boxer breed hails from 19th Century Germany although their roots go back as far as B. Initially a hunting breed, they quickly became prized for their courage, loyalty, and intelligence. First registered in the US in , they have been a fir favorite for hundreds of years since. What are Boxers like personality wise? Loving, playful, and even a little goofy with their families, these dogs quickly turn into fearless guard dogs if they think their loved ones need protecting. As an extremely high-energy breed, Boxers do best when given plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Are Boxers easy to train? A Boxer Miami will also need proper socialization so they become well-rounded and polite adult dogs. How big does a mature Boxer get? As Boxer puppies Miami mature, they grow into impressive dogs… a little imposing too! Male Boxers can mature to stand up to 25 inches high at the shoulder, weighing up to 80 pounds. Female Boxers are a little smaller, maturing to stand up to .Their coat is smooth and tight-fitting; colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings, which may cover the entire body. Boxers are brachycephalic they have broad, short skulls , and have a square muzzle, mandibular prognathism an underbite , very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. Boxers were first exhibited in a dog show for St. Bernards in Munich in , the first Boxer club being founded the next year. Based on American Kennel Club statistics, Boxers held steady as the seventh most popular breed of dog in the United States for the third consecutive year. Appearance The head is the most distinctive feature of the Boxer. The breed standard dictates that it must be in perfect proportion to the body and above all it must never be too light. The greatest value is to be placed on the muzzle being of correct form and in absolute proportion to the skull. The length of the muzzle to the whole of the head should be a ratio of .Folds are always present from the root of the nose running downwards on both sides of the muzzle, and the tip of the nose should lie somewhat higher than the root of the muzzle. In addition a Boxer should be slightly prognathous, i. Temperament The character of the Boxer is of the greatest importance and demands the most solicitous attention. He is renowned from olden times for his great love and faithfulness to his master and household. He is harmless in the family, but distrustful of strangers, bright and friendly of temperament at play, but brave and determined when aroused. His intelligence and willing tractability, his modesty and cleanliness make him a highly desirable family dog and cheerful companion. He is the soul of honesty and loyalty, and is never false or treacherous even in his old age. Wikipedia SW 40 St. Suite 27 Miami, FL gorgeouspuppiesandkittens gmail. All Rights Reserved.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. We first discovered the french bulldog back in while pet sitting for a client of ours. We always had golden retrievers, who we loved and admired their sweet nature. However, as much as we loved the breed we felt that a smaller dog would better suit our lifestyle these days. So we set out in search of a french bulldog puppy after years of searching and researching about the breed we finally found Hazel our very 1st frenchie, fawn black masked little girl. We fell so deeply in love with her we knew we had to have another. Thats when we found our Finn, also fawn black masked little boy. Wanting to do everything right we decided we were going to start attending meetings at our local kennel club. Before we knew it, we were attending confirmation classes and decided to become members which was no easy task But with the people we have met, the knowledge that they share and the friendships we have made it has all been worth it. We started showing our frenchies the spring of and become active exhibitors, we look forward to finishing and breeding our own champion show dogs. Although we are new into the Frenchies, We have over 20 years experience in breeding golden retrievers along with vet tech experience. We are extremely committed to the health testing of all our frenchies we strive for a balance of health, temperament and quality in all of our breedings. All of our Frenchies are AKC registered and our actively exhibited in that venue. We take great pride in our frenchies and in their show ring successes, but admire them above all else for their companionship and for the love that they give, as they are first and foremost our beloved pets.

Autoimmune Diseases Eye Disease Most of these problems, however, can be prevented or treated as long as you are willing to monitor your dog and keep a close eye on them. You can ask your veterinarian to schedule your dog for a DNA test that will help in the determination of possible inherited diseases. There are also balanced diets that are dependent on what your dog needs. You can ask your veterinarian for a diet recommendation that is specific for your dog. Rottweiler German Shepherd Cross Food Requirements It is vital that your Rottweiler German Shepherd cross is fed the right diet to maintain its glorious health and physique. You must also keep in mind that this breed is prone to obesity, so exercise and proper diet is important to avoid health complications. Producers have different recipes for big dogs, so make sure you check the label when buying the best large breed dry dog food. On the other hand, its parent breeds, German Shepherd and Rottweiler, have similar dietary needs to there is not much complication as to what to feed your puppy. Older dogs will be better off with the best senior dry dog food brands. As similar with other dogs, there better the source or main ingredient is in dog food, the healthier your pet becomes. Check out our guide to best dry dog food and learn more about the nutritional requirements of canines. The main concern with dog food recipes, however, is the presence of grains. Many owners opt for a grain-free option, which is what to go for to avoid allergies in your dogs. To help you pick out the best dog food for your German Shepherd Rottweiler mix, here are some of the best high-protein dog foods: 1. Dog For Dog Food — Not only affordable, but this dog food is also grain-free which is described as what dogs would eat in the wild. It is known to have a better flavor and provides digestible energy and natural antioxidants for a healthier immune system. Wellness Core Dog Food — This dog food has recipes for all sizes and ages. It has an above-average protein and fat content, as well as below-average carbohydrates when compared to other brands. Nutra Thrive dog food supplement and similar products may be considered if you believe the dog is not getting enough micronutrients. Always consult with the vet before giving such products to your pup. They will determine whether the pooch needs their food boosted. Rottweiler German Shepherd Hybrid Exercise Requirements The German Shepherd Rottweiler hybrid is not recommended for owners who have small homes or apartments not only because of their size but also because of their exercise requirements which will include outdoor activities that are best conducted in a spacious backyard. They can spend plenty of time enjoying the outdoors in fine weathers. They also tend to become destructive and chew a lot of things if cooped up for too long. If you are going to leave for a dog for longer than a few hours, it is better to leave them at a dog daycare so they can enjoy and socialize with other dogs. The dog is also fine with any kind of weather since they harbor a decent tolerance of heat and cold. Your dogs will need to have a good exercise regimen especially outdoors. They need to have high physical exercise if you want them to stay fit, healthy, and mentally stimulated. You can start by walking them at least twice a day for at least an hour. You can also opt to jog with your Shottie because experts also recommended that they are involved in high impact and fast-paced exercises. Like most dogs, they also enjoy playing games like balls and fetch at public parks. This can help their mind active and their muscles lean. Always remember that your pet is prone to obesity so satisfying their exercise regimen is important. Rottweiler Crossbred with German Shepherd Training Since its parent breeds are famous for their protective instincts, the chances are that the puppy will also inherit them. For this reason, you should socialize your puppy at a young age so prevent their aggressive tendencies and have them get used to the presence of other animals and people. The training your Shottie will receive highly depends on your intention for adopting the dog. First, you must ask yourself if you want them to become a guard dog or a companion dog. Positive reinforcement such as rewards and praises are highly recommended in training your pet. Here are some of the effective methods in which you can teach your dog: The Mark Good Behavior Method — Pick out a unique sound for your dog and chime it whenever your dog does something right. You can use it so that your puppy will learn that music means a reward is coming. Eventually, you can use it along with command words. The Mirror Me Method — If your dog is glued to you all the time, you can use this chance to teach them how to behave through mimicry. The Tied To You Method — If you intent your dog to become a companion dog, keep him tied to you most of the time and try to build communication and trust with them. German Shepherd Crossbreed with Rottweiler and Families One of the many ways that you can adopt a Rottman Shepherd is through rescue shelters but be careful in picking one. You must be well aware of its upbringing and temperament because there is a chance that these dogs were abandoned because of behavioral issues as a result mainly of lack of training, poor obedience, lack of socialization, or sometimes, even aggression. With small kids, it can be hard to control them because they are quite large. They might become overwhelming for the children. On the other hand, they are also in need of a company most of the time because they tend to become destructive if bored. With proper training at a young age, they can become beautiful guard dogs that are active. They can also provide families with good companionship as they love creatures. Should a Rottweiler Mix take after their Rottweiler parent, they will be a larger and strong dog breed that has a sweet, lovable personality and a protective instinct. Rotties tend to be calm and aloof. They also love their families and are lovable, playful, and affectionate with them. As long as they have been properly socialized, a Rottweiler will still be alert and protective of their families, but they will also be open and friendly to new people, especially once they have been introduced. The other parent breed will introduce some traits that could affect this in a Rottweiler Mix, so you want to make sure you ask about them. You can also meet the mother dog in-person to see what her temperament is like and the manners she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started training and socialization, it is up to you to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home. Rottweilers are moderately adaptable dogs that are better suited to homes with fenced yards. They are more sensitive to heat and do not tolerate extreme temperatures very well. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The other parent breed could introduce the potential for a Rottweiler Mix to be more or less adaptable. They could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, or they could inherit all of them or any combination of them. From the Rottweiler side, potential health conditions to be aware of in a Rottweiler Mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and osteosarcoma. The other parent breed will introduce its own set of conditions and you want to be aware of them. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure they are not passing issues on to puppies. So, you should be asking about the health and genetic history of both of the parents anyway. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Although the Rottweiler is a highly trainable dog breed that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please, they can be a challenge for first-time dog owners. They need structure and consistency in training and a confident leader to train them. As such, puppy training classes are recommended. The other parent breed could make a Rottweiler Mix easier or more difficult to train, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. They help reinforce training, strengthen the bond you have with your puppy, and also offer socialization opportunities. A Rottweiler Mix can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. If they inherit the Rottie coat, they will shed a bit year-round and heavier as the seasons change. Due to a lack of good dental care for dogs , gum disease is one of the most common health issues for them. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. A Rottweiler is a working dog breed with moderate exercise requirements. They need a job to do in addition to daily walks, playtime, and some extra activity. If the other parent breed also sits in the moderate range, then you can expect something similar from a Rottweiler Mix. But, if the other parent breed is a high-energy breed, then you will need to be prepared for the possibility of a high-energy dog. Fully-grown Rottweilers usually stand inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. So, make sure you ask the breeder about them. Although it is not a guarantee, you can also meet the mother dog in-person to get an idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown Rottweiler Mix. Rotties generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should still be able to expect a similar life span in a Rottweiler Mix. Featured Rottweiler Mix Article.

The best time to begin potty training your French bulldog is immediately after you bring them home. If your dog is from the breeder, they are most likely about 8 weeks old. Your 8-week-old dog should start undergoing potty training without a second thought. Using the first few days of having your puppy in a new environment is advisable to teach them good habits. But ensure your puppy is healthy with no urinary infections or parasites that can affect potty training. You can call your vet to examine the dog before staying in your home for more than 2 days. After that, start potty housetraining your French bulldog. Structure a Set Routine Since potty training is a new routine you will introduce your dog to, structure it out first. Structuring a routine will help you stay consistent and adhere to rules or regulations. You can do potty training as a morning routine if you're into waking up early. However, if you can't make it early, set a preferred time, like after feeding your French bulldog. Then make it a habit of taking your dog outside for bathroom breaks at the set time. This should be after each meal, drinking water, and sleeping. It's also good to set a potty routine after playing or exercising, as French bulldogs tend to be quite excitable. With time your French bulldog will get used to this routine and eagerly wait for you for their potty breaks. If you're consistent with this training, it becomes a natural habit for your puppy. Set Up a Potty Area Apart from setting a potty routine, you should also set up a potty training area. Choose an appropriate spot within the house where you will be taking your dog to potty every day. It should be an easy-to-access area where they can go whenever they want to use the bathroom. If your puppy sleeps in their crate, place their potty training area next to it. Then bring a pee pad to this area. However, this depends on your French bulldog's size and age. The potty box helps your puppy learn how to use the bathroom quickly. Introducing the potty pads on the box will help your dog associate this area with a toilet, and they will come here when pressed. Utilize Puppy Pee Pads The potty pads make it easier for any puppy to identify the right potty spot. So, introduce the pads to your dog and help them differentiate them from the furniture and floor. If your Frenchie recognizes the potty pads, you won't experience accidents in the house. But encourage your puppy to poo outdoors often. The puppy pee pads can also help your puppy learn how to retain pee before you take them outside. To train your puppy to hold their pee put some puppy pads in the house and keep moving them towards the door. After some time, your Frenchie will go outside to potty without your company. Use Treats as a Reward If you want to succeed in potty training your French bulldog, make treats your good friend. Use different treats to reward your dog whenever they pee in the right spot. The treats will make your puppy believe that peeing outdoors is a positive skill that attracts rewards. Use only food treats and give them in moderation. However, be ready for surprises, as your dog will expect treats whenever they do something good. So, be careful with your reward and only give your Frenchie the treats after using the outdoor bathroom in the right spot. Don't allow your dog to manipulate you into giving them treats. Also, decrease the reward frequency with time as your puppy adapts to the new routine. Switch From Pee Pads to the Peeing Outdoors After setting a routine and teaching your French dog to pee in a given spot with or without treats, it's time to introduce a new method. Take them from using the pee pads to peeing outdoors in the preferred spot. You can use treats to help you achieve this without many challenges. But ensure you only reward them if they pee outdoors and teach them to do this without treats. Consistency is Key When potty training your French dog, understand that consistency is key to achieving your goal. The process can be challenging as the puppy adjusts to the new life and environment. So be there for your dog and show them the right thing to do. Keep doing this repeatedly until your puppy gets the new habit and sticks to it. Follow the set routine religiously to prevent accidents and make the whole process fun. Don't scold or force your dog to potty, as this will create a negative response. Consistency will help your puppy potty independently and cooperate well. Give it Time Patience Time is all you need for your French bulldog to identify the right potty area and go there independently. Be patient, allow your puppy to make errors, and learn how to do the right thing. As you give your dog time to learn the potty-going trick, keep reminding them of the right thing to do. Remember, the more you teach the puppy, the easier it becomes. It's advisable to start the potty journey early enough before they develop habits that can be tricky to leave. You must also be patient, as every dog responds differently to potty training. Unlike your friend's dog, you might have to wait longer for your French bulldog to adapt to the potty routine. Be Attentive to Potty Signs Remember to look out for the potty signs your dog shows when pressed. Most dogs portray some signs before potty, and you need to be keen to identify them. Some of the common signs you can look out for include the following: Barking at you Running and sniffing around you Whining. French Bulldog yawning. The earlier you start, the more effective it will be. That said, consistency is a crucial factor in training your French Bulldog. For your pup to understand that you want them to go potty outside every time they need to go, you must teach that skill every opportunity you get. As a result, training should begin at a convenient time for you and your dog. You can choose a time when both of you have the energy to train. In no time, your Frenchie will be accustomed to this routine and expect it to happen daily. Make it a part of your daily routine. French Bulldog stretching front legs. Structure a Set Routine Starting a new routine requires you to be consistent, and the best way to ensure this is by sticking to some rules and regulations. Make it a habit—wake up, feed your French Bulldog, and take them outside for bathroom breaks. Over time, your French Bulldog will make the connection and anticipate their potty breaks every morning. With consistency, this becomes a natural habit in their mind. French Bulldog on a leash at the park. Crate Training Your Frenchie Crate training is a great way to make potty training your Frenchie easier. It helps your Frenchie understand that the potty area and bed space are different. Securing your puppy inside a crate will make your Frenchie understand that they have to hold in their pee. Since this breed is hygienic by nature, your dog will not want to urinate where they sleep. Instead, they will hold their pee until they are let out again. Additionally, you need to confine your French Bulldog when you cannot accompany them. Take them out for potty breaks before you leave the house. And ensure you know how long they can hold in their pee before getting anxious. This is where they can go when they need to use the bathroom. This type of box is ideal for puppies and makes it easier for them to learn how to use the bathroom. Artificial grass can be used for dog potty area covering. Utilize Puppy Pee Pads Puppy pads are an excellent way to help your puppy understand where to go potty. Knowing the differences between your furniture and the floor will help your Frenchie understand that this is where they need to use the bathroom. You may consider placing a few puppy pads in the house and gradually moving them towards the door. This way, your puppy will eventually go on their own, not just when you take them out. A sad French Bulldog is lying on the floor. Use Treats as a Reward Using training treats as a reward will help your puppy make the connection that peeing outside is a positive skill. Remember to use food treats and not to overdo them. While treats are helpful to encourage your puppy to go out for potty breaks, using dog treats can make your puppy expect rewards whenever they do something good. You should reward your Frenchie with treats only when you take them outside or after they use the bathroom in their potty area. Slowly decrease the frequency of rewards as your puppy gets used to its new routine. A French Bulldog eating an apple, while looking up. Consistency is Key Puppy training may seem difficult at first, but as you continue with it, your Frenchie will learn and be able to adjust to their new way of living. The most important thing to remember is that you should always be there for your puppy and guide them along the way. Be there to guide them through the process and make it a fun activity for you both. You should never scold or force your puppy. Puppies can get anxious when forced into doing something. They need to understand the importance of this routine and be able to do it independently. Even so, try not to use force if they are not cooperating. What is a fluffy Frenchie? The more you practice, the easier it will be. Take your time, and start with small goals. While it can be hard, patience is crucial when potty training your Frenchie. French Bulldog puppy standing on the grass. You should also pay attention to signs they need to use the bathroom. Here are some of the most common signals you should look for: Running in circles. Hi Becca, Congrats on the new pup! Some can take up to months to be completely trained for going outside. We know, not the greatest! Thank you February 4, Frankie Hi there, thanks for your comment! Unfortunately, when it comes to potty training, it is all about patience, positive reinforcement, and repetitive habits. Keep persisting. REPLY February 15, Anthony My frenchie uses the restroom when I take him out but he has the small tiny accidents in the house when he gets scared or excited. For example, if we play or right before I pick him up he gets scared when I pick him up. He does his business outside no problem. Goes to the door and hits the bell with his nose. But the last 2 evenings he does his zoomie around the house and we are finding pee. Even though he knows to go outside. It is just happening once in the evening. Any reason why he might be doing this all of a sudden? March 4, Frankie Hey Cristina, Thanks for checking out the website! There are a number of reasons that could trigger a behavior like this, anxiety or stress is one, for example. Sometimes if you are separated from your pup more than usual or they are getting less stimulation than they need they could do this to act out. All the best! She was pretty good about learning the pee pad at 8 weeks and then we went backwards. She went into eating her pee pads and newspapers. That set us back quite a bit. Any tips? She also likes to eat her poop. We clean up when we see her pooping or as soon as we find it. Crate training has been considered but she pees in her crate, on blankets and had a rough experience with her crate coming home. March 4, Frankie Hey Emilia, Thanks for sharing your challenges. They can be quite stubborn. You may feel like they are never going to get there, then all of sudden it will click. Just be patient, provide positive reinforcement, stay consistent with commands, and they will get there. If possible, staying at home with them for a week or two could accelerate things so you can set boundaries and create positive habits. When do I take the pads away from his crate. Thank you for March 4, Frankie Hey Chelle! There is no perfect timing for this. Good luck! I take her out all day and before bed and maybe she pees 2 times. What do I do? She is ruining every rug in the house! I scold her when I catch her and praise with a treat outside. She just stares at me like what? We love her … March 4, Frankie Hey Mindy! That sounds frustrating… It may be worthwhile getting an expert trainer to help you out or chatting with your vet. The only your pup gets the harder it will be to train them. With that being said, they can still learn habits at 2 years old. Try to avoid the negative scolding, and instead pick her up and place her where she should pee as she is doing it. Positive reinforcement when she does the right thing is always good. You could also try out an indoor grass mat or pee mat to bridge the training gap. In the end, patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement will get you there! REPLY March 15, Ksenya Our puppy female is 8 months old and most of the time she can hold for about 4 hours during the day and 8 hours at night. But with me, last month she jumped on the couch and peed on the blanket while looking at me, which was 30 minutes after she went outside. And yesterday I was lying on the couch, she jumped up and peed on the couch right beside my leg while looking at me, which was an hour after we walked. March 15, Frankie Oh no! That sounds like a real challenge… It does sound like she is acting out for some reason. At one point when Frankie was fully trained, about the same age, she would stare straight at us and pee on the bathroom mat after we got home from work. She knew it was wrong, but it was like she was acting out. We found that a timeout immediately at the time of the misbehavior worked well. He has been peeing and pooing on pads as and when he wants. I live in an apartment in a high rise so i time his pee and poo breaks to every 4 hours. He pees fine but pooing is so irregular and he has accidents on his bed. When he is outside, he gets distracted so easily a little wind or leaf blowing in the distance gets his attention. When he pees, I use the potty command and praise him tremendously with toilet break only special treats. I really need some advice on whether im doing something wrong or whether this is normal. I kind of feel like he resents me taking him out for toilet break however really enjoys it when we go outside for walking purposes and he gets to do what he wants. HELP please I really want him to learn how to go outside and need some sound realistic advice. April 2, Will Blunt Hey Nura, Have you considered using a grass mat can be fake grass inside as a transition? Unfortunately, potty training is not a perfect science, and it requires lots of persistence. The only thing you could add in is to use a mat which is easier for clean up and use this area to move him whenever he has an accident. I thought her to ring the bell but she only does it when we are at the door and I gave her treats every time she went potty outside. Please help! Have you considered getting a grass pad inside to begin transitioning them? Some Frenchies can take up to 8 months to be completely trained for going outside. My puppy has just turned 9 months. She is amazing throughout the day until it comes to potty training at night. She is still pooing on the pad or floor and not going dry all through. We have tried everything and not sure what else we can do. Each dog is different. Yes, 9 months is on the longer side, and if it concerns you perhaps you could run your tactics by a vet to see if there are any improvements you could make? There is every chance your pup is feeling the pressure and some of this could be related to psychological anxiety issues , not necessarily a physical inability. April 19, Taisia Hi, I am preparing to welcome a 9 week old frenchie into my family at the end of this month. Is that too young to start potty training? I confined him with 2 pee trays for a week to get used to it but then when i placed the pee tray in a big area, he still peed and pooped on the floor instead of going to the pee tray — even though the pee tray had pee pads absorbed with his pee. Please help me. Some Frenchies can take up to months to be fully potty trained. The most important thing is to maintain consistency, reward the right behavior, and be persistent. How often should we usher him out during the day and at night? We are at the beginning of this process. You also want to avoid creating a habit of needing to go too much. Start fairly small with hourly visits, and then slowly build on this and extending the time out. May 26, Shannon O'Brien Hey, I have a 10 month old Frenchie and he is great at everyone except the most frustrating, toilet training! I seem to struggle a lot with him going outside to the bathroom. I have some amazing days where he will go when I go on schedule to the toilet or when he needs to go outside he will bark at the door. But other days he is horrible! He will do many accidents inside. I also struggle with him through out the night I take him to the bathroom before bed and as soon as we wake up. But he always seems to have accidents inside! This is becoming very frustrating and please if you have any tips that you could give me to break his habit of doing it inside it was be appreciated. When Claude first came into our life, my wife and I honestly could only compare to having a baby again! Learning how to potty train our French bulldog puppy was hard work, took time, but in end… worked. In this guide I am going to share the mistakes we made, how we got him toilet trained properly, how long it took, how long it should take, how hard it is, how long they can hold their pee, and what techniques and products we used to get there in the end. How to potty train a French Bulldog? To potty train a French bulldog puppy successfully you need to take him outside or to his mat as soon as you see him starting to pee. Once he has finished, give him praise and a treat. French bulldog potty toilet training techniques Just like a child and they are just like naughty kids , potty training your Frenchie involves teaching them the routine of knowing when they need to use the bathroom and toilet. Once these French bulldog puppy training techniques have been repeated enough, the puppy will know what to do when they need the toilet and they will use everything that you have taught them in order to let you know that they are ready to go out. There are several different methods you can use to make sure you are teaching your dog the absolute right ways to potty train them in the safest and easiest way possible. The great thing about French bulldogs is that they are a clean breed that does their best to avoid having accidents, so if you have a set training schedule your dog or puppy will be up to date with their training in only the matter of a few short weeks. The 5 steps and potty-training schedule The first thing you should do is set a regular schedule for your French bulldog puppy. This will help them know when to expect their time to go out. Step 1. Schedule regular and consistent potty breaks You should take your puppy out first in the morning when you both wake up, after playing for a long period of time, and after eating dinner and drinking from their bowl. This is how we did it, and how we got there in the end. Step 2. Watch for the signs that they need the toilet Once you get acquainted with your French bulldog, you will be able to see the oncoming signs of them having to go to the bathroom. Some of these warning signs are fairly obvious, such as pacing around the room in a circle, pacing back and forth from the same rooms, whining at you, barking loudly, sniffing around you, and staring you dead in the eye. Step 3. Take them to their potty-training pads or outside If your bulldog is exhibiting any of these signs, then you should immediately assume that going to the bathroom is their top priority and get them to the potty pads or outside. This is where puppy training pads come in — and I recommend the best ones lower down this page. Step 4. Step 5. Reward them for success Once your puppy has finished going to the toilet, you should reward them with a treat. This will positively reinforce the good behaviour and lead to quicker results. Items You Will Need for Potty Training To properly train your French bulldog puppy, there are certain items you should have that will make the process easier. Pet training puppy pads When we first brought Claude home, we used puppy pads in his crate. This works two-fold. Firstly, they are scented, but secondly you can use them as the area for them to relieve themselves on. You can buy pet training puppy pads on Amazon. Decent dog leash It almost goes without saying but will obviously need a leash so that you can walk the dog to the proper toilet location if going into an unsecured outdoor area. Dog treats for rewards You will also need treats to positively reinforce your puppy for going to the bathroom when you tell them to. Toys will also help to positively reinforce your puppy into thinking that they are doing good with their potty training. In the crate we placed the training pads in one half, with his bed to sleep on in the other half. We bought a larger crate view which crate we recommend that we needed for his size at the time, as knew we would need it still on certain occasions as he grew older. I would also recommend you equip yourself with cleaning rags and an enzymatic cleaner to rid your house of the unpleasant aroma. Further tips on potty training including the psychology! You really need to know your dog on a personal level and understand their mindset. The puppy may learn to hold their defecation in for a longer period of time so they can squeeze some more outdoors time with you. Claude is now successfully trained to go to the toilet outside. If you are not home with your puppy at points during the potty-training phase, it would be a good idea to make sure your French bulldog is put into a restricted area, but also making sure that they are comfortable and have enough room to move around freely. Like previously mentioned, French bulldogs are a mostly clean breed that will avoid going to the bathroom in certain areas, such as where they sleep every night. If you find that your new Frenchie has had an accident inside the house, make sure you clean the area fiercely and thoroughly to get the smell out. If the dog continues to smell that smell, they might think it is okay to go in that same spot in the future. If you find that your Frenchie has unleashed one of his loads inside your house, you should gather the poop up in a small bag and deposit it in the part of the yard that you want your dog to go in. Their nose will become accustomed to the smell in that particular area and they will have an instinct to go to the bathroom in that spot of the yard. To make sure your French bulldog knows which areas are acceptable for going to the bathroom and which ones are not, be sure to take your puppy to the same area for a significant length of time. Once your bulldog learns that said area is acceptable for going to the bathroom, you can move on to a different area. Your bulldog will learn to remember which areas area acceptable bathroom spots and which ones they should steer clear from. This can actually make them more nervous, and lead to even more mess. Not only will these behaviours scare your dog and ruin their relationship with you, but they will also hinder the potty-training process and they could be aggressive towards you. You should also avoid using any cleaners that come with a scent of ammonia. Urine contains high acidic amount of ammonia. If your puppy smells this, they will most likely use this area in the house as a spot for going to the bathroom. How long to potty train a French bulldog? This is where I want to set you some realistic expectation. Whilst we started training Claude to go outside to the toilet from day 1, it took us 6 months until he stopped having accidents inside. Yes, he was stilling using the training mats regularly indoors, but to be honest, I think we should have just avoided using those altogether, and just focussed on his outdoor routine. It took us around 6 months to potty train Claude the Frenchie puppy. So, if you have ever wondered how long it should take to potty train a French bulldog puppy, all I can do is give you our personal experience. It took him 6 months so up to his 9-month birthday before he was fully trained. Are French bulldog easy to potty train? Are French Bulldogs hard to potty train? It can be hard and will take time. However with perseverance and commitment you will be able to fully toilet train your Frenchie. Our personal experience of toilet training I remember taking Claude to puppy socialisation training at 8 months old, and him peeing on the floor in front of all the other puppies. I was like an embarrassed parent! And this was despite the fact all the other puppy breeds were the same age as him. He got there in the end though! How long can a French bulldog hold its pee? How long a Frenchie can hold its pee and bladder will very much depend on their age. For example, a fully-grown French Bulldog can hold its pee for around 8 to 10 hours. French Bulldog puppies can hold their pee for a maximum of 4 hours. They will be peeing a lot in your house until completely toilet trained. My French Bulldog is still not toilet trained This is a common problem by owners of adult French Bulldogs who are not toilet trained. If you cannot get your adult Frenchie to hold their pee and stop peeing indoors and have exhausted all of the advice in this guide, I would recommend you seek the support of a pet behaviour specialist. Conclusion If you and your Frenchie pup have a strong enough level of respect and trust, this can go a long way, and the process will be loads quicker and easier than you ever even imagined. French Bulldog potty training can be achieved by reinforcing good behaviour and setting up routines and rewards you can minimize the amount of accidents that are going to happen on your brand-new rug. Just be patient with him and in no time at all you will know how to potty train a French bulldog and get the results you and him want.

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Teacup Poodles have a compact and petite build, making them perfect for cuddling and carrying around. When fully grown, these tiny canines usually stand around 7 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder. Their small size makes them ideal for indoor living and suits various living environments, including apartments and smaller homes. Despite their diminutive stature, Teacup Poodles have big hearts filled with love and devotion for their human families. They are quick learners and excel in obedience training. Along with their intelligence, Poodles are affectionate and loving companions, forming strong bonds with their human families. They are known for being social and friendly with both children and other pets, making them a perfect fit for families of all sizes. Our listings feature ethical Poodle breeders who prioritize the well-being and health of their puppies. 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But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun. Abstract Background Weight at birth is an important predictor of neonatal mortality and morbidity in dogs. In addition, the birthweight of the puppies in a litter influences the decision to perform a cesarean section. The goal of the present study was to estimate heritabilities for the puppy birth weight in Labrador retrievers. Results Of the Labrador retriever litters whelped at the Guiding Eye for the Blind between September and February , were included in the analyses after data editing. Puppy weight at birth was the target trait, measured on a continuous scale in pounds, and converted to grams. Linear mixed models were used to identify factors influencing puppy weight at birth. The analyses showed that the sex of the puppy, litter size, length of gestation, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficient of the puppies and dams contributed to the variance of the puppy birth weight. Dam and litter effects were included as random effects. A multiple trait derivative free restricted maximum likelihood approach was used to estimate variance components and genetic parameters with two animal models, one without covariates Model 1 and one with covariates Model 2. Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects. Estimates for Model 1 and Model 2 were 0. Conclusions In order to estimate reliable breeding values for puppy weight at birth, sex of puppy, litter size, length of gestation and the adult weight of the dam should be included. Estimates could benefit from weighing the dams prior to each mating. Background The size or weight of puppies at birth is an important parameter, which influences neonatal mortality and morbidity and is a predictor of puppy survival [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. After a physiological weight loss within the first three days post-partum the growth curve reverses and birth weight is doubled after two weeks [ 4 ]. Breeders should weigh the puppies daily for at least the first three weeks [ 5 ] and provide each puppy with an individual feeder bowl. In this way, problem puppies are recognized early and the breeder may seek advice from a veterinarian. A recent publication proposes health monitoring for newborn puppies by assessing blood and other parameters to reduce neonatal losses [ 6 ]. Factors with an influence on the birthweight have been reviewed for domestic animals [ 7 ]. Among them are year and season of birth, sex, age and diet of the dam and fetal environment. Possible influences on gestation length in dogs including breed, litter size, parental age and size or parity have been investigated in different breeds [ 2 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], but were not conclusive. A recent genome-wide association study revealed six canine SNPs associated with gestation length [ 14 ], which may lead to the identification of genetic variants influencing this trait. Birth weight is not only determined by the genetic makeup of the offspring and its environment, but also by the maternal genetic composition and environment provided by the dam [ 15 ]. Estimates for genetic parameters for the birth weight in dogs are scarce. Nielen and coworkers [ 16 ] estimated the direct heritability for birth weight in Boxers to be 0. Helmink and coworkers estimated direct heritabilities for German shepherds GS and Labrador retrievers LR to be in the range of 0. In the same study the maternal additive genetic heritabilities were estimated to be in the range of 0. Estimation of maternal effects may improve breeding value estimation. Guiding Eyes for the Blind is a non-for profit organization that breeds and trains mostly LR and a few GS to provide guide dogs to people who are blind or have visual impairment. The breeding strategy and detailed procedures of Guiding Eyes for the Blind have been described [ 18 ]. The aim of the present study was to identify factors that influence puppy weight at birth which can provide insights for improvement in the Guiding Eyes for the Blind breeding program. Results To reliably estimate parameters levels of covariates with less than 30 litters were not included in the analyses. As a result of this restriction, 91 litters with a litter size smaller than four puppies or larger than eleven puppies, 15 litters with a gestation length shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days and 19 litters with parities larger than six were dropped, leaving litters with puppies in the study. The average puppy weight was g, and males were heavier g than females g. The fixed effects of season of birth of the litter, inbreeding coefficient of the sire, as well as adult weight of the sire did not have a significant effect on PWB in LR. Table 1 Effects influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates Model 1 and a model with covariates 2. The direct-maternal covariance was held at zero Full size table Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects Table 1. Estimates of variance components Table 1 and genetic parameters Table 2 for PWB are shown for models 1 and 2. To make the individual effects of the covariates model 2 more tangible, detailed information about their magnitude are given in Additional file 1. Table 2 Proportions of variance components influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates 1 and a model with covariates 2. The aim was to measure the genetic correlation between the two traits Additional file 2. The genetic correlations of the direct effects as well as the one of the maternal effects reached almost unity. These results indicate that the architecture of the direct as well as the maternal additive genetic effects of PWB should be very similar in both sexes. These findings allowed for jointly analyzing the PWB of both sexes and to run a univariate mixed animal model with sex as covariate. Discussion Birth weight is a complex trait and influenced by many factors. PWB and post-natal weight gain are important parameters to recognize problem neonates and puppies deviating from normal development, respectively. Variation in size is desirable for Guiding Eyes for the Blind client placements. Dogs provided to people who are blind or visually impaired and also have difficulties with balance require a larger dog to aid in stability. In contrast, many guide dog users prefer a smaller more compact dog to easily fit in smaller spaces available when using commercial means of transportation. However, too heavy or too large guide dogs may be a hazard for the user [ 17 ]. Avoiding the birth of puppies with extreme birth weights is desirable in dog breeding and enhances welfare of the animals in general. In dogs, season of birth was associated with risk for cardiovascular disease risk [ 21 ] and fertility in bitches kept in tropic countries [ 22 ], however, the authors are not aware of any work reporting a seasonal effect on PBW. This is in contrast to findings in humans where the season of birth was strongly associated with birthweight and adult weight, as well as health outcomes in later life [ 23 ]. Seasonal effects on birth weight were found in horse or sheep [ 24 , 25 ]. Sex of the individual affected birth weight in LR. On average, female puppies were 24 g lighter than male puppies. This effect of the sex of an individual confirms the results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 26 ] and may reflect physiological differences between the sexes. In our data a genetical sex dimorphism could not be detected. As in full sib families dominance effects could affect the estimation of additive genetic effects [ 27 , 28 ] we also investigated possible dominance effects in our data using WOMBAT together with the R-package NADIV [ 27 ]. With the same approach we also assessed possible sex chromosomal influences usually not considered in variance component analyses. Our data revealed neither substantial dominance effects nor sex-linked effects Additional file 3. The antagonistic relation between litter size and PWB is well known for domestic animals [ 7 ]. In LR, an increase of the litter size by one puppy resulted in a moderate decrease of PBW of 11 g in average confirming results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 29 , 30 ]. However, the effect was small with an increase of about 6 g for an additional day in the length of gestation. Whereas the adult weight of the sire did not influence PWB in LR, offspring of heavier dams showed a slightly higher PWB, on average by 5 g per kg adult weight, which confirms a previous report [ 3 ]. In a study of Great Danes with a rather restricted data set, the maternal and paternal adult weight had a positive effect on the PBW. Furthermore, higher adult weight of the sire increased neonatal weight gain in this breed [ 29 ]. In LR, up to about parity two to three the PWB in LR increased about 4 g in a linear fashion whereas from about parity two to three to parity six the PWB decreased about 4 g in a non-linear fashion. A similar observation was made in humans [ 31 ]. Although the PWB was fluctuating over the years there was a very small increase of 2 g per year from to .It is well known, that the year of birth may lead to variation of the birth weight by differences in the climate, management and selection of breeding animals in domestic species [ 7 ]. The reason for this very small increase of PWB in LR remains unclear but may be related to the selection of breeding animals. Inbreeding may affect many traits including birth weight [ 32 ] and litter size [ 33 ] in domestic animal species. In the present study, PBW was only marginally influenced by the inbreeding coefficient. Inbreeding of the puppies and the dam had very small but opposite effects. The residual variances are not different but the environmental variance of the litter in model 2 is less than half of that in model 1 and the direct genetic variance in model 2 is close to half of that in model 1. The differences of the maternal genetic variance and the environmental variance of the dam are much less pronounced between the two models. These observations are reflected in the estimates of heritabilities and proportions Table 2. The maternal heritability 0. The residual is larger in model 2 due to the smaller total variance. In Boxers, estimates for heritability of birthweight corrected for litter effects and sex were much higher 0. This discrepancy may be explained by the fact that for our study maternal effects were included in the models. Helmink and coworkers estimated heritabilities for birthweight in German shepherd dogs and LR [ 17 ] by using the following bivariate models: birth weight — 42 days weight and birth weight - mature weight accounting for the litter. For birthweight in LR they found similar direct genetic heritabilities 0. Our results suggest that the inclusion of covariates may lead to better estimates although standard errors of heritabilities and proportions are only marginally smaller in model 2 than in model 1. However, the knowledge benefits anyone especially the working dog community who wants to investigate birth weight in a specific population, canine or not, or improve the situation with respect to birth weight in specific populations. Results suggest that the inclusion of covariates in the model improves the estimates of variance components. The magnitude of the heritabilities indicates that estimation of breeding values could improve breeding program with respect to PWB. Whether our findings help to improve the situation with respect to the stabilization of PWB in guide dogs depends heavily on how they can be implemented in a breeding strategy that is focused on the guiding abilities of the dogs. To evaluate the impact of our results on the general LR population, reliable data on PWB need to be collected. Most of the covariates included in model 2 could also be recorded in the field. The target trait, individual puppy weight at birth PWB was measured in pounds and converted to grams. The final data set comprised puppies in litters by dams and sires, born from September to February Additional file 4. Potential predictors were chosen based on literature [ 4 , 11 , 26 , 29 , 36 , 37 ]. Breed, a well-known factor influencing PBW [ 6 ] was not relevant for the present study because all animals were LR. The diet of the dam during pregnancy can influence the birth weight of puppies [ 26 ], but was not included in the analyses, because keepers of pregnant dams adhere to the feeding regime recommended by the Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Descriptive statistics for PWB and variables in the analyses are given in Additional file 5. Prior to the estimation of variance components, the significance of factors was evaluated and correlations between explanatory variables estimated Additional file 6. Litter size ranged from 4 to .Litters with less than four puppies and litters with twelve or more puppies were excluded from the analyses. Parity ranging from 1 to 6 and parity squared, as well as length of gestation were included. Litters with gestation lengths shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days were excluded. Litters after cesarean sections were included in the analyses, because the gestation time was known. Year of birth was a possible predictor and encompassed the years to .Further possible predictors were the inbreeding coefficients of the puppies and their parents, as well as the sex of the puppies. Finally, adult weight of the dam was measured in pounds then converted to kg. Model 1 contained no covariates, because covariates are not always easily recorded in the field, and Model 2 included the covariates identified to influence PWB Additional file 7. The covariance between direct and maternal genetic effects fluctuated around zero and was never different from zero. Therefore, it was fixed at zero for both models. For both models the following variance components were estimated: direct genetic variance, maternal genetic variance, maternal environmental variance, environmental variance by the litter and residual variance. Emily Schroeder Emily Schroeder has been an animal-lover since…well, forever! She spent the early part of her career at Time Inc. And prior to landing her much-loved role as a staff writer for Daily Paws, she spent several years as a communications consultant. When Emily is not writing about our favorite four-legged friends, you can find her spending time with her husband and three adorable kiddos. Just trust me. John Callaway pachelibre posted a TikTok video last week that documents lesson time for this delightful 3-week-old black Labrador retriever puppy. It shows the darling baby Labrador sitting on Callaway's chest facing the camera with his little puppy dog eyes looking right at ya! That's when Callaway lets out a gentle-yet-realistic howl. In response, the little tyke raises his head and tries to generate his best "awooo". Not much sound comes out, but the most charming part occurs at the end of the puppy's tiny howl when he yawns and makes the cutest Chewbacca-like roar—melting our hearts into a giant puppy puddle. Five to six weeks and beyond. A Baby Labrador is born! Labrador litter sizes can range from , but on average consist of seven puppies. Therefore, your baby Labrador will have around six siblings. Newborn Labradors Baby Labradors are born covered in fur that will be black, yellow or chocolate. Less frequent colors are charcoal, silver and champagne. Their ears and eyes will be closed meaning they are unable to hear or see anything. Apart from snuggling up to its siblings and its mother, your baby Labrador will spend most of its time resting and nursing. One week old baby Labrador Your baby Labrador gains a healthy amount of weight during its first week of life and should now look a bit bigger. Its front leg muscles will be slightly more developed allowing it to pull itself towards its mother for milk. It will still spend most of its time resting, snuggling and nursing. Rapid weight gain and growth should continue to take place and the muscles in the legs will become increasingly stronger. Your two-week-old baby Labrador will still not be able to regulate its own body heat, so will spend most of the day close to its mother. Not only do baby Labradors rely on their mothers for heat; they also rely on them to encourage bowel and bladder movements. This is the time when its individuality will begin to stand out. Its ear canals and eyes will be completely open, allowing it to see and hear its surroundings. By the end of the week, it should be able to sit up and stand. Its muscles and sense of balance will undergo a lot of development as it attempts to walk. It will be able to regulate its own body heat more effectively so will spend less time with its mother and will instead want play with its siblings. Teething begins during this time in preparation for weaning throughout the upcoming weeks. Four week old Labrador Your baby Labrador will be much larger now and will have clearer distinguishable features. Due to their lively temperaments, baby Labradors will be very active and will want to play with their siblings throughout the day. It will also be able to maintain its own body heat without aid. Back teeth will begin to come through and weaning may start during this week. Five week old baby Labrador At this age, your baby Labrador will be able to play with toys as well as its siblings. It will be more receptive to interactions with humans, allowing it to be handled more frequently. This will decrease the likelihood of it becoming fearful of humans later in life. Its mother and siblings will begin to teach it bite inhibition by vocalizing loudly when it bites too hard during playtime. Weaning should be well underway with the baby Labrador eating solid foods multiple times a day. It will be able to bark now, and may be very loud! Six week old Labrador A six-week-old baby Labrador should be fully weaned and eating several small meals of solid food a day. Apart from for play and comfort, your baby Labrador will be fully independent from its mother. It will be fairly large now and should weigh around lbs. Even though your baby Labrador has changed a lot, its immune system is still maturing rapidly. This takes up a lot of energy so it will sleep for around 18 hours a day. Most of what it learns during this stage will stick. It should continue to experience new things to reduce the risk of it become fearful in adulthood. Exposure to new sounds, sights, smells and people will have a positive impact and set them up for later in life. Your breeder may begin potty training throughout this time as the bowel and bladder muscles are mostly developed. Eight week old Labrador Your baby Labrador is ready to come to its new home! It will now weigh around lbs. It will continue to rest for the majority of the day but will be extremely active and playful when awake. Ensure you are at home for most of the day so you can give it playtime. To train your Labrador, you can use our potty training schedule to keep you on track. Teething Baby Labradors are likely to bite because they are teething at this stage. Even though they are only small, their bites can cause a lot of harm. Therefore, it is recommended you get some chew toys and carry out training to reduce the risk of potential injuries. To get more tips on how to stop a puppy from biting, you can read our article on the topic here. Nutrients such as proteins, fatty acids, and vitamins are going to be essential for your new family member to grow healthily, especially with its active temperament. There are lots of dog foods you can consider that are designed to meet the needs of your puppy, or you may wish to go the raw food route. The portions you give your baby Labrador depends on the kind of food being provided, but generally, they will need meals a day. As they are a larger breed, they need a lot of food to support their development. However, it is important to stick to the recommended portion sizes as you do not want your baby Labrador to become obese. More information can be found in our article about feeding a Labrador puppy. If you provide it with a good diet, exercise regime and lots of love, it should fit into its new family fairly quickly. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. As my website states, I am not like other breeders in many ways. First, I want to explain how the average Labrador breeder raises their pups the first few weeks of their life. They expect these tiny pups without their senses fully developed to find their way to a nipple without being smothered. I understand that this is what dogs do in the wild, but this is also why many puppies die in the wild. .Then, on top of that they hope that each of the pups will get enough milk on it's own to make it through the 1st week of life. They expect the Lab mom to do all the work, so they don't have to lose a wink of sleep. This is all very sad to say but it's true. I, on the other hand, care about each individual pup's life, I care that each and every one of them survive so that they can live a full and happy life. So, I make sure that each individual pup is given outstanding care. How do I do this? I began with hand raising each one of my pups the first 3 weeks of its life. What do I mean by hand raise my pup? It means I personally make sure each individual pup is fed every 2 hours- 24 hours a day, the first 2 weeks of its life. At feeding time, I make sure each puppy gets on a nipple so they don't have to struggle to find one. I make sure that each puppy gets an adequate amount of milk. Then, once I see that they have been well fed. I pick up one pup at a time and have the mom lick it to go potty. And then I put them in their little crib to ensure they are safe and not smooth by the mother until the next feeding 2 hours later. At three weeks, we feed the pups every 4 hours. But at this point, even though the pups eyes and ears are open. I still supervise the feeding to ensure that each pup is adequately fed and again not smothered by it's mother. I believe in giving these pups outstanding care. Even if that means that I lose a lot of sleep, and even if it ends up just saving one pups life. That one pup could be the next Labrador that I get a testimony about how it brought so much joy into one person's life! So, in the end, all the work and lack of sleep is worth it. I am up now about to give my pups their 3 am feeding. Hope this helps you all understand what is put into each litter. She is from our breeding between Cash and Bella, both parents are health certified. Sugar is overnight crate trained and has some other training. She has the sweetest disposition; we absolutely love her! However, we have had a family emergency that has come up that may cause us to have to put Sugar up for sale. If you would be interested in Sugar, please email us and let us know about yourself, and the lifestyle that you would be able to give Sugar. We will be reviewing potential families who would be interested in Sugar and pick the best family for her, and make a decision later this month. They are given constant positive attention their whole time with us. We have a big game room that we call the "Labby Room" This room is designated for our labs and their lab puppies. The puppies get a lot of interaction with all our kids in this room. They also become well adjusted to all the sounds of the home life, like the sound of a vacuum. When the pups are born, I will contact you and inform you on how many pups were born. We will post up pictures of each litter soon after they are born. And try to post weekly picture updates so you can watch the puppies grow. We will also post video on our face book page. When the pups are 6 to 7 weeks of age, I will contact you to set up an appointment for you choose and pick up your pup at 8 weeks of age. If you had first deposit in for a male pup you will have first choice of all the males available. If you have second deposit in, you will have the next appointment to choose from the males that are left and so forth. This order of reserving pups would also apply to the females as well. We honor all reservations on a puppy by not selling the puppy to anyone else. So if you are interested in a litter and don't want to make a reservation until "you see the litter". An appointment can be made to view the left-over puppies when they are 10 weeks old, and no sooner. No appointments will be allowed at a younger age, except for the families that made a prior reservation. We will not allow our baby puppies to be exposed to potential life threatening viruses from people that are just "shopping". We wait until all puppies that have been reserved are safely home, before we show any left-over puppies. Any left-over pups will be at least 10 weeks of age before any viewings are allowed, to insure they have at least had 2 sets of shots in. The only other accommodation that we can offer is a zoom call, so you can see the pups before you make a reservation. Most of our sweet puppies are sold before they are even born. Reserve your puppy today!

Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. Over the years, this breed of dog has consistently ranked in the top five for most popular dog breeds. In fact, for nearly 31 years, the Labrador Retriever was ranked as the number one most popular dog before getting knocked out of the number one spot this year by the French Bulldog. And with this breed, often referred to as simple the Lab, remaining high on the list for most searched for and most loved dog, we want to know how much it costs to own one. What are the costs associated with these dogs, from actually getting the puppy to feeding them and beyond. How much does it cost to own a Labrador Retriever? Crufts returns this year after it was cancelled last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic. And we should also point out that a Chocolate Lab is going to cost more than a Black Lab or a Yellow Lab since this color of fur is rarer. Next, we have to talk about feeding your Lab. Considering the Labrador Retriever is medium to large breed dog and often on the larger side of things , you are looking at a diet that may cost a bit more. Now we have to talk about those vet visits. That being said, there are some health concerns that all Labrador Retrievers may face over the course of their lives our pup was lucky enough to not have to deal with these issues, although he did have to have his eyelids fixed as a puppy and that can significantly increase their vet bills. Finally, you will absolutely want to consider grooming when it comes to your Lab as they are another breed that has a double coat. Of course, dog toys, beds and other supplies are also a must for your pup, so these are added expenses that should also be considered. However, if you have ever owned a Lab, you know they are absolutely worth the cost. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. Your Labrador puppy will need a bed, collar, leash, poop bags, food bowls, food, treats, toys, grooming supplies, and a dog crate. It is important to get any dog licensed to avoid legal issues. Training Labrador Retrievers are easy to train and do not require professional training. But, some keepers choose to take their Lab to puppy school. Because they are highly motivated, Labradors also do great in agility training. This is also a great way for them to use up their energy. Owners can either build their own agility course or pay to put their dog in agility classes. Vet Fees and Insurance One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is all the vet visits. This includes all of their shots and monthly checkups. A way to help reduce the cost of veterinary bills is through buying pet insurance. It is best to start paying for a pet insurance policy when your Labrador is a puppy. Senior dogs are more expensive to cover since they are more likely to develop health problems. Food When it comes to feeding a Labrador, they are not cheap. Labradors eat a lot of food. They are medium to large-sized dogs and weigh around 70 pounds. These prices are based on feeding a high quality kibble. Wet food can easily cost several hundred dollars more. Backyard Breeders One important thing every potential owner should remember is to avoid backyard breeders and pet shops. It is true that these places sell dogs for a much lower price. But, that does not mean they will be cheaper over their lifespan. Backyard breeders do not screen their dogs to determine if they have inheritable health problems. This results in Lab puppies being born that are more likely to develop health issues such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. These breeders also do not provide proper veterinary care for their puppies. Many are sold while having worms or fleas and having received no socialization. Ethical Labrador breeders ensure their breeding stock is screened and their puppies are healthy and socialized before placing them into their new homes. Labrador Retrievers can develop diseases of the eye. The form of this disease that is very common is Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration. Caused by an inheritable genetic mutation, it ultimately leads to blindness. Screening will help to prevent you from buying a puppy that may become blind later on in life. Dogs with this disease will lose their sight between one and eight years of age. Hip and Elbow Scores Another health problem that Labradors are prone to is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a genetic skeletal disease that causes the hip joint to not form properly. This results in the femur grinding against the hip causing deterioration and loss of function. Many Labradors with this condition end up having to undergo surgery to reduce pain and regain function in their hips. The average hip score for a Labrador retriever is 12, so any score below that is considered good. Ideally, good breeders will only breed dogs with hip scores under .This will prevent you from purchasing a Labrador puppy that will require expensive surgery later on in its life. Purpose American Labradors are best suited for active families. Families that enjoy activities such as swimming, running, and hiking. They are great for families with older children who can engage and play with them more. American Labs would also do best with owners who can dedicate more time to them because they require a lot of exercise every day. People who work from home or part time would be ideal. English Labradors would make great pets for quieter families because they have a calmer personality. They are also gentler and would do well with a family that has young children. Since they are less active, they are suitable for a busier family who has less time to exercise them. Their docile, patient attitude also makes them excellent candidates to be service dogs so they would be a great dog for people who need one in their life. Summary The price of a Labrador can vary depending on if you get one from a breeder or rescue. Its color, pedigree and health will also influence the price. All Labradors are prone to health conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and hip or elbow dysplasia. Make sure the breeder screens for these health conditions before breeding. This will help to ensure your puppy is healthy. The cost to keep a Labrador healthy, exercised and happy can get pricey. But, if an owner has done their research and prepared themselves, then Labradors make an excellent addition. What Lab do you prefer? American, English, or mixed? Let us know! He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like.

labrador great dane puppy - I grew up with boxers as my grandmother was an avid lover of the breed and had a lucrative breeding and showing program. While she is no longer with us, I continue her legacy and continue to use her kennel name MerBar Boxers. Each one of my puppies is raised in my home with my children and other pets. I make sure each puppy is loved and has great social skills. I like to give each baby an abundance of attention! All of my dogs are health tested to ensure you get a puppy that will be with you for years to come. I am happy to explain our health tests, what they mean, and why they are important. I will make myself available for any questions or concerns. If you are considering a breeding program I will mentor you on all the appropriate health testing, as well as making sure I fit you with the right puppy. If I do not have what you're looking for I am happy to refer you to my network of breeder friends to ensure you get the right puppy. I know that sometimes situations arise that are out of your control. Rest assured that you have options and I will work with you to resolve any issues. Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in Houston TX? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Houston TX? This is because many factors go into the final price of a Houston Boxer for sale and can include factors such as the specific breeder, availability and location and other physical attributes. Do I have to choose from Boxer puppies in Houston? Our national network is made up of breeders and businesses from all over and you can have your choice of any one of these! What are the requirements for Houston Boxer breeders in your network? We want to ensure that irresponsible breeders and businesses are kept out of our network and that we work with only the best and most ethical breeders out there. Learn more from our Breeder Pledge. At Uptown Puppies, we are committed to connecting great people like you with only top-notch breeders and businesses out there, so you can focus on the fun part. We truly care about creating good matches that create a lifetime of happiness and would never sacrifice our standards for profit. Should I worry about Puppy Mills? They often neglect the care of the animals in the interest of keeping profits as high as possible. When you work with Uptown Puppies you will have peace of mind while searching Boxer breeders Houston. Can I get a Houston Boxer puppy for sale immediately? You can immediately start browsing through available puppies and then connect with the breeder or business and make plans to bring your pooch home! What is the history of Boxers? Modern boxers were originally bred in Germany for jobs such as hunting and guarding and gradually spread in popularity all across Europe. The ancestors of the Boxer are one of the most ancient known breeds and can be traced back for centuries. They were introduced in the U. What should I expect from my Boxer? Boxer puppies Houston make great companion animals for a wide variety of individuals and families. They do have boundless energy and will need a decent bit of exercise to keep them well mannered. In addition to all of that playful energy they are also highly intelligent and you can expect them to pick up on training quite easily. Are Boxers good with children? Boxers make great best friends for children of all ages because they have the zest and enthusiasm to play and adventure for hours on end before snuggling up with their humans. In addition to loving to play, they enjoy playing the protector role over the home and the entire family. What size are Boxers? Boxers are considered a mid-to-large breed dog and once they are fully grown they will be around inches in height and weight somewhere around pounds, with the males averaging on the higher end of the range. As long as they get plenty of walks and exercise, they will be happy in most living arrangements.


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labrador great dane puppy - Country Life June 21, This picture could only be improved if the puppies were using their paws to cover ears, eyes and mouth respectively.But, well, you can't have everything. Credit: Alamy If you're after a labrador — aka 'the world's favourite dog' — you'll need to take some expert advice. It is one of the most versatile breeds, capable of working in search and rescue, as a guide dog, in medical detection, as a sniffer or assistance dog and in the theatre of war. Labrador tips from the experts Go to a specialist breeder, so that you can see the different generations of a breeding line. Make temperament, not sex, your overriding factor when choosing. As soon as your puppy wakes up, take it outside. When introducing the labrador to a lead, walk it with an older dog. A yellow Labrador puppy. Possible labrador problems to look out for Canine hip dysplasia is a genetic disease, causing the abnormal development of the hip socket, resulting in pain and lameness. Listen for a popping sound when the dog walks, and look for reluctance to use stairs, as well as sensitivity when you touch the hindquarters. Labradors can also be prone to retinal dysplasia, an inherited condition that affects labradors used for field work, and results in their developing blind spots. Generally, the dog can work around this by changing head position. Reputable breeders will be able to show certification that the dog has no eye conditions, which you should ask to see when buying a dog. Head and skull: Skull broad with defined stop; clean-cut without fleshy cheeks. Jaws of medium length, powerful not snippy. Nose wide, nostrils well developed. Eyes: Medium size, expressing intelligence; brown or hazel. Ears: Not large or heavy, hanging close to head and set rather far back. Mouth: Jaws and teeth strong with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite. Coat: Distinctive feature, short dense without wave or feathering, giving fairly hard feel to the touch; weather-resistant undercoat. No need to scroll down: we can confirm that the Golden Retriever is indeed on the list below. Credit: Alamy Which is the more popular spaniel, the springer or the cocker? Shooting Times's David Tomlinson weighs up the pros and Close up of dog. Credit: Getty Images With a silken coat, affectionate nature and boundless enthusiasm for life, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel lives up to its Credit: Getty As the dog world prepares for Crufts , we take a look at the breed of dog which has been A sprocker spaniel Picture: Alamy Whether you own labradors, springers, cockers or a mix of all three, debate over which gundog is best has raged Related. Your breeder should be concerned with breeding healthy dogs, rather than focused primarily on selling them. Visit a potential breeder and observe his interactions with his dogs; they should be friendly and relaxed. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Look for breeders who are registered with national organizations such as the American Kennel Club [3] X Research source or with breed-specific organizations such as the National Labrador Retriever Club. Ask the breeder why these two particular dogs were bred. If they have had other litters, ask for references from people who bought those puppies. If you want a gun dog, don't choose a breeder who primarily raises cuddly pets or award-winning show dogs. These breeders will be able to assess puppies more accurately for the qualities you're seeking. Look for quantifiable measures. For example, select breeders with litters from parents who have hunt test or field trial scores if you want a puppy who will grow into a good hunting dog. These are organizations that work to find homes for Labradors who need a good home. While these organizations often have many adult and even senior dogs who need homes, they also place puppies. Charities or non-profits may offer Labrador puppies for auction as a means of raising funds. Because these auctions are often conducted without appropriate legal oversight and because they encourage rash decisions about pet ownership, they are opposed by groups such as the National Labrador Retriever Club. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. That sweet ball of fluff who will be your walking buddy, later snuggling up on the couch together. After all, your pup will probably be with you for a dozen years or more. So he has to be a great fit. It should never be a hasty decision. But it should also be FUN! That brings us to the question: how to choose the perfect puppy? Read on! You picture fun romps in the field, playing frisbee, and showing little Max off to all of your friends. But before getting a puppy, there are so many practical things to review in deciding whether to even get a puppy. My first dog as an adult was a shih tzu named Cuddles. My husband and I had discussed getting a dog for a while. We both worked and knew that the pup would take up a lot of time. Not to mention the expenses associated with a dog. But I saw the little gold and white week-old ball of fluff and was smitten. Luckily, I had a family member who could take her out to potty and exercise her during the day. In choosing your new pup, the following considerations are important. Are You Active or a Couch Potato? Can You Afford a Puppy? A puppy is more than the initial purchase. That can be a drop in the bucket compared with the lifetime costs of owning a dog. There are bills for: food and treats; chews; vets; crates ; beds; collars, harnesses, and leashes; training classes; dog walkers; dog daycare; pet insurance; enzymatic cleaners ; grooming—and more. These can really add up. You may decide not to get pet health insurance and not need pet walkers or doggie daycare, but expenses can really add up over the years. Do You Have Children? Children and pets can be a great match. You want to make sure that you choose the right canine. A toy breed may not be the right choice for a toddler. A tiny dog may inadvertently be injured by such a young child. We raised puppies for years before we had kids so we had a good idea of expectations for our puppy. If you have very young kids a rambunctious Lab may not be the right choice. Do You Have Other Pets? You need to take into consideration any other pets you have. If you have a senior dog, for example, a young puppy may not be a great choice. Are you gone too many hours to take care of a puppy? A friend of mine who works hour days decided not to get a puppy. The pup would have been alone too long. A puppy needs attention and potty breaks. Of course we need to work. You may be able to have someone come in and exercise, feed, and potty the pup. And give him attention during the day. As I discussed, you may need help with the new puppy. If you have reliable relatives or friends who can regularly help out, it can make getting a puppy much more realistic. Or you can hire pet sitters or walkers to help out. If you live in small quarters, a large, rambunctious breed may not be best. As young puppies, goldens can be wild, even inside. Of course, with a sufficient amount of mental stimulation and physical exercise, you can make it work. After Dalmations came out, everyone wanted one. Dalmations are high-drive, independent dogs. I was called to work with a family who got a Dalmation puppy that was wrecking their house. The minute walk the pup was getting was just a warm-up for the dog. We set up an exercise and training program for the puppy and the family was able to keep him. Do your research. The American Kennel Club lists purebred dogs and their needs and health profiles. Before choosing a certain breed, consider the following. Large or Small? You should have an idea what size dog you want. Conversely, if you want a frisbee or jogging partner, a chihuahua would be a bad choice. Why Do You Want a Dog? This may seem like a silly question. Most people want a dog for companionship. But you may have additional things in mind. You may want a jogging partner. Or a dog to do therapy work with. Or to show in obedience. Grooming Needs Would you love spending time every day brushing and combing a dog? Exercise Needs As you know, some breeds need a lot of exercise. We also do obedience training and she plays with puzzle toys. Lifespan Of course we want our pups to live forever. But some breeds generally live longer than others. Generally, larger—especially giant breeds—have shorter lives than their smaller counterparts. Friendliness or Independence Of course within any breed and litter you can have a wide array of personalities. But there are certain breed characteristics that can help guide your choice of which breed you want. I have dogs at both ends of the spectrum. My golden retriever Riley loves everyone and would do great in any setting. But my Lhasa apso Ralphie—true to breed—is more discriminating when making friends. So Riley would be great with well-behaved children and would love to be hugged by them. Health Problems Any dog can have unforeseeable health problems. But some breeds are likely to have more health problems than others. For example, bulldogs, pekingese, and pugs are among the breeds that are more likely to have breathing problems and overheat. Breed Types Of course there are many breeds and mixes to choose from. If you get your dog from a breeder, consider what lines your puppy comes from. If from working lines, the dog will likely be more intense than if from show lines. All of the below classes of dogs can make great companions in the right setting. Herding dogs were bred to herd, of course. Popular examples are border collies, Australian shepherds, and Shetland sheepdogs. Generally, they require more exercise than some breeds like toy breeds. And they may become destructive if left to their own devices. Also, some bark excessively and may not be good in an apartment setting. Sporting dogs were bred to hunt. They have a lot of energy and need regular, invigorating exercise. Popular examples are golden retrievers, labrador retrievers, and cocker spaniels. Just like other working-type dogs, hounds have almost limitless energy. So attention to you may be an issue. Also, some bay when excited. Popular examples are beagles, dachshunds, and greyhounds. Dogs from the working group are alert, intelligent, strong, and bred to work with people to perform various tasks. Some were bred to guard property, to pull sleds, or to perform water rescue. Some popular examples are Doberman pinschers, huskies, and rottweilers. They require not only exercise and precise training so that their natural instincts are kept in check. Terriers are feisty and energetic and vary greatly in size. They were bred to hunt and kill vermin, So a squirrel they see on their walk will be very alluring to them—and, without training, they may almost pull you off your feet trying to get to it. Some popular examples are Parson Russell terriers, Staffordshire terriers, or West Highland whirte terriers. Pit bulls which is a generic name for many types of terriers are also in this group. Toy breeds were generally bred as amiable companions. They may make great lap dogs and have big personalities despite their small stature. Shih tzus, Maltese, Yorkshire terriers, and chihuahuas are some very popular examples. Nonsporting group dogs are a catch-all group with various sizes and personalities. Some popular examples are bulldogs, French bulldogs, bichon frise. There are so many options. You may want a certain breed. So a breeder or rescue of that breed should meet your needs. Just make sure that the breeder is a good one. Good breeders do so to improve their breed. Bad ones care only about making money. They do any necessary health certifications. They put a lot of time into their litters socializing them to new experiences and people. Good breeders are invested in their litters and will help you choose the right puppy for you. They stand behind their dogs for life and will readily answer your questions and take the dog back if you need to give him up. You can get referrals to such breeders through breed clubs, dog clubs, and resources such as the American Kennel Club. A reputable, good breeder also will have questions for you regarding your family, work, home, activity level, and reason why you want a dog or their breed. The pups will also have been checked by a veterinarian and been given the appropriate vaccinations for their age. There are also breed rescues that rehome dogs of their chosen breed. However, they rarely have puppies. Shelters and rescue groups can also be great places to get a puppy. Many use foster homes, where a puppy or litter of puppies are located. Foster parents get to know the puppies and can help determine whether any particular puppy is a good fit for you. Many rescue groups try to place a puppy in the best home possible. When I adopted my Aussie mix puppy Mille, the rescue group would adopt her out only to people who had experience with herding breeds. Many shelters are first come-first served. In order to place as many dogs as possible, they will adopt out a puppy to the first person who wants him—barring any obvious reason not to. How to Choose a Puppy from a Litter There are many tests that can be given to determine whether a puppy is a good fit. This assumes you have a litter to choose from. There is a range of temperaments and personalities in each litter, No puppy may perfectly meet every test below. But look at the big picture. So, in addition to your own observations, you can bring a friend along to have another opinion about the litter. Or you could hire a trainer to help you choose. Overall, as a companion, a middle-of-the-road dog usually works out best. Also, a reputable breeder or good rescue group or shelter who knows the puppy can help guide you in making your decision. See the Mother and Littermates If you can, watch the puppy and his littermates and mother interact. The puppy you choose should be able to take a proper correction and back off then re-engage. The breeder should have the mother available. Check Out the Puppy The puppy should look healthy and alert, not lethargic. Inspect his coat and skin. He should be well-fed with a little fat around his rib cage. The pup should run and walk normally, without a limp. A puppy should engage with people and be curious, not slink away or cower. A scared puppy will probably be more difficult to socialize and train. Will he follow you if you walk away? Clap your hands and make a kiss sound. Will he come towards you or run for the hills? Hold Puppy on His Back Hold him on his back for about 30 seconds. Ideally, he should briefly struggle and relax. When I had two sheltie puppies to choose from and one fought constantly when held and the other struggled briefly, then settled, I chose the latter. I had already gotten another dog from this great breeder. I wanted a dog who was a companion but who I also wanted to show in competitive obedience. My choice turned out to be the right one. Duffy was a great dog to live with and became a nationally-ranked obedience dog. He also did agility for fun and was a therapy dog who visited a hospital on a weekly basis. Hold the puppy and touch and gently open his mouth. Look in and gently rub his ears. .Gently touch each paw, even putting slight pressure on them. The puppy should be comfortable with these activities. He may slightly struggle. But a puppy who really fights against such touching, even to the point of mouthing or growling may turn out to be difficult to groom, handle, and pet. Pet the dog calmly from head to toe. He should enjoy it and relax. Pick the Puppies Up If you hold each puppy around the middle, ideally he would be relaxed and not struggle. Also, cradle the puppy up against you. Ideally, he should relax and like the attention. He may startle at first but should rebound and even go and check out what made the noise. Social Dominance Fall to the ground at least a few feet away from the puppy. He should want to come over and see what happened. Even if you like the look of a certain puppy, he may not be the right puppy for you. Consider the above factors as well as the following when choosing a puppy. The dogs live in rabbit-type hutches or dark barns. They receive no proper socialization, vet care, or human contact. There are also small back-yard breeders which, essentially, are puppy mills on a smaller scale. The mothers are bred at each heat and have horrible lives. Dogs sold in pet shops and through the internet usually come from them. Of course, do your own research because no one will admit they are a puppy mill. But two puppies may bond too much with each other. And to train, socialize, and exercise each puppy requires a lot of time, energy, and money. The dogs in shows have been highly trained and specially selected for their jobs. Then pick a great breeder, rescue, or shelter. Final Thoughts Getting a new puppy is such an exciting time! Do you have a puppy? How did you decide to choose him? Please let us know in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. I had wanted a female red lab, none were available. A trainer near me was getting a second dog from a renowned breeder in Ireland and she asked if he had a puppy for diabetic service dog work. Both her pup and my pup flew over from Ireland together. A pup with a desire to work, a willingness to please, and a calm demeaner. I received a cute ball of fluff, a male yellow lab pup with red ears and red highlights. A good breeder is able to match you with a dog that will meet your needs, give them all the information you can. I never met the breeder, but my pup arrived at 10 weeks old already already on his way to being well socialized, exposed to sounds, not nervous, liked the vacuum, fireworks are not a problem, loves the motorcycle sounds, handled all sorts of traffic noise at 3 months. We started his public training at 3 months old and he handled it like a champ. I had to buy a motorcycle with a sidecar as he always wanted to go out when the bikes were started up, so at 9 months he was in the sidecar with Rex Specs goggles. Did I mention he loves to travel and meet me people, when his tail wags which is all the time his whole body wags. I am new to this forum so should introduce myself. As you can imagine its left an uneasy quietness to the house so we are looking for her successor In our home its my wife, myself and our 8 yr old daughter and 6 yr old son. He says he breeds only for good disposition only as any good breeder should and our quick meeting with parents it looked to be accurate. The dad was in a large outdoor kennel and looked to be very friendly. She did a quick snarl when we first got near which I have to give a pass as i'm sure she's just being protective, right? After the breeder told her its OK she calmed right down. Anyways, there are 4 females that we get first pick of when we go back. Of course training and exercise play a huge role in this so that we'll have covered. Does it still hold true that when you are looking at the liter to see which ones come to you and let you hold them on their back and settle after a short period to determine good nature rather than overly squirmy? Such a big decision i just wanted to make sure we do this right. We were so spoiled with our last pup its hard to compare! Selecting Your Labrador Retriever Puppy Selecting your puppy Try to restrain your emotions when you are selecting our pup. Remember that the breeder has been with the pup from day 1 to selection day at 5 weeks. At Pawlinglabs, we will ask you to forward a list of the characteristics that your are hoping for, prior to selection. When you come to select, we will ask you to observe the litter before entering and handling the pups. Labrador pups are very cute and cuddly, but when it comes time to select the right one for you there is plenty to consider. Carefully observe Labrador Retriever puppies before buying them, ensuring that the pup you select looks healthy and is to breed standard. There are some basic points to note about Labrador Retriever standards. The coat of a Labrador is their most distinctive feature. Labs have two coats, the water resistant undercoat which is unseen, and the top coat which is dense, straight and short. There is might be a slight wave in their coat, however the coat should feel rough to the touch. Labrador puppies come in three different coat colors: yellow light cream to red fox , chocolate liver and black. There must not be any other colours in the coat. Labs have a broad skull and a well defined stop. Their head is quite large but the features on the head, such as the ears, look proportioned. The ears of a Labrador should be set far back from the face. The inside skin of the ears should be a pale pink and soft without any scabs or discoloration. There shouldn't be any odour coming from them. The eyes of a Lab pup are round, either deep brown or hazel with black rims. The eyes should be friendly and express intelligence. The Labrador Retriever has a wide black and well developed nose with distinguished nostrils. The nose should be clean and without discharge. Be aware that a wet nose is not an indication that the Lab is healthy, nor does a dry nose indicate he is unwell. The teeth should be set square to the jaws with the top teeth slightly overlapping the bottom. Labrador puppies have fewer teeth than adults and they will lose their baby teeth as their adult teeth grow in. Labs have a well developed and strong chest. It has good depth and width. Their barreled ribs are well sprung and their back is level. Their loins are wide and strong. The skin of a Lab should be without scabs or bumps. It is normal for Labrador puppies to have extra skin at the back of their neck; this is how their mother picks them up. The skin color of a lab is usually pale pink but it can also be brown or even spotted. The tail of a Labrador is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip. The tail is a moderate length and has no feathering. It is as smooth like the rest of the coat with a rounded appearance. The tails is even with the back or slightly upwards. It should never be carried over the back or hang down. Labrador have long and sloping shoulders that connect to the strong front legs. The hind legs are developed well and have a turned stifle. Both the front and hind legs should be straight. The feet of Labrador pups are compact and perfectly round. Their toes are arched and pads well developed. Feet should be straight, not turned inwards or outwards. The gait of a Labrador should be carefree. Labs take long strides and walk straight. Observe your puppies as he walk. Make sure it is not favoring any leg or paw. This can be a sign of a current or future health issue. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Tweet on Twitter Buying your first dog can be a life changing decision. Choosing the right dog will help to ensure that your life changes in a good way. There are some wise precautions you might like to consider before viewing any litter of Labrador puppies. Or choosing which one to bring home with you. Buying a Puppy from a Friend It is often tempting to buy a puppy in an opportunistic moment of enthusiasm. Perhaps because you happen to hear of a friend who has a litter that will be ready to go to their new homes soon. Or a neighbour who has a gorgeous litter of puppies that you fall in love with when you pop over to admire. But the puppy that lives just around the corner, and the puppy that is going to bring you years of pleasure, may be two very different things. It is a really good idea to put your sensible hat on at times like these, and to approach the whole business of selecting your puppy in business-like way. The first decision to make is to choose what type of Labrador you wish to end up with. Which characteristics are most important to you, and will help him to fit into your family best. Choosing a Working or Show dog? Those bred for work, and those bred for the show ring. The working bred dog is generally very responsive and easy to train. But he may also fall short of what you expect in appearance. If you are hoping to get involved in gundog fieldwork, or agility at some point it is important to purchase a field or working bred labrador. Of course choosing a dog is so much more than just weighing up the pros and cons. There are now a number of hereditary diseases in labradors that can be tested for. Routine testing under these schemes is gradually growing in popularity for a number of conditions. These include hip dysplasia, elbow displasia, and a number of inherited eye diseases. However, there are still many puppies available for sale in the UK whose parents have not been tested, or that have been tested and fall below the necessary standard for breeding. Amazingly, in the UK, the Kennel Club will still register puppies from parents that have poor hip scores. Hopefully this will change in the future. You will need to read up on these to make sure you understand what you are looking for. Finding the right dog breeder Knowing where to look for a breeder is not easy. Labrador breeders come in all shapes and forms. At their best breeders are dedicated experts on their breed, who produce a few litters each year of top quality puppies for their own kennels show or field and sell any surplus to quality pet homes. At their worst, breeders are simply puppy farmers who churn out litter after litter with no thought to the health and welfare of either the puppies or their mother. Telling the difference is not always straightforward. In some cases these may be excellent puppies, in other cases they will not. The key to a good litter is a quality female dog with excellent health clearances, put to a compatible quality dog with equally excellent health clearances, and given quality care throughout pregnancy and beyond. The female dog must have a purpose beyond producing puppies, whether that is as show dog, working dog or highly treasured family pet. On the whole, this is more likely to be achieved by an experienced breeder. The Kennel Club in the UK run an accredited breeders scheme, and members agree to meet certain minimum standards. However, there are many excellent breeders who are not members of this scheme so do not dismiss a breeder on these grounds alone. The scheme is not perfect yet, and its standards are not necessarily enforced, as the KC prefers a voluntary approach. If you are inexperienced it is very important that you get some help in finding a breeder. Choosing one from a newspaper advert or from the internet when you know nothing of the source can be a risky decision. If you want to buy a pup from top working parents, then you may find the pups are all spoken for very quickly, long before they are eight weeks old. It can be disheartening to phone advert after advert only to find all the pups are gone. It pays to plan ahead. If you do some research, locate a really nice female dog, and book one of her pups before they are born, you may find the whole process a lot smoother. You may also be able to enjoy visiting and photographing the puppies whilst they are growing. Check the ancestry of the dog If you are buying a Labrador for gundog work, or agility, make sure the parents of the litter you want to view are from working stock, look for a few FTCH and FTW field trial champion and field trial winner in the pedigree. If you are hoping for success in the show ring, you should be looking for CH and SH CH title SH CH is show champion, CH is a show champion with a working certificate which is not a demanding or difficult test of working abilities. Viewing the puppies Some puppies will be raised in the home with the family. This can be ideal, as the pup will have been accustomed to people and the hustle and bustle of family life from the very beginning. Be aware though that not everyone who has a litter of puppies knows what they are doing. Look at how the pups are handled and how clean their quarters are. The pups should smell nice, and look bright and healthy. The litter may have been whelped and raised in kennels. This is also perfectly acceptable provide the breeder has accounted for this. An experienced breeder will have made sure that the pups have had plenty of human contact regardless of where they are living. Again look at the surroundings. A responsible breeder will run a clean and tidy kennels. Always see a puppy with its mother. If possible see the father too. The parents should be friendly and relaxed. The mother may not look her best seven or eight weeks after giving birth, but she should look healthy. Again, if you doubt your ability to make a judgement on a puppy or his parents, take an experienced person with you. Dog or female dog? Until fairly recently male dogs were more popular than female dogs. Fashions come and go, and at the moment, female dogs seem to be in favour. You will hear various claims as to the differences in temperament between them, but most of these contradict each other and it really is a matter of personal taste. The main disadvantage of a female dog is that she will come into season twice a year each year from the age of months until the end of her life. This can be inconvenient. Having your female dog spayed will prevent her coming into season, but the procedure is a major and expensive operation, and recent research has shown a few problems associated with spaying that you will want to consider before making your choice. Because female dogs are currently fashionable, you will probably pay more for a female dog, but as the price of a puppy is such a tiny fraction of what you will spend on her over her lifetime this is probably the least relevant factor. The appearance of a male dog may be more pleasing to some. Males tend to develop a squarer, more chunky head which some owners prefer. The average male will also grow a little taller and weigh a little more than a female. These differences are however fairly minor ones. If you are not sure whether you want a dog or female dog, keep an open mind. At least you will have a wider choice of puppies. Which puppy? If you have booked a puppy in advance from a reputable breeder, there may be little or no choice as to which puppy you have. It is not unusual to find that all puppies due in popular kennels have been booked before birth. If you are keen to buy a dog with plenty of red ink on the pedigree, you may need to do some research and book the pup as soon as the female dog has been mated. If you do get the chance to choose your puppy out of several in a litter, how should you go about it? Puppy Health Having made sure that the parents of the puppy you are viewing have good health clearances is a good start. You still need to make sure your puppy is healthy. A thorough check up by your own vet soon after you get him home will help put your mind at rest. But how can you be sure the puppy you are viewing is not sickly even before you bring him home? Some puppies may be more lethargic than others when you visit, but this may be a reflection of how hard they have been playing before you arrived, rather than how healthy they are. A good breeder will not try and sell an unhealthy puppy and if relevant, will point out any minor defects to you. Puppies are sometimes born with slightly misaligned jaws for example, which may not matter to someone who has no intention of breeding from the puppy or working him, but such a defect should not be concealed from the buyer. Umbilical hernias are not uncommon and can be troublesome. When you go to view a litter of pups it is really important to take someone with experience with you. This is especially important if the breeder is unknown to you and does not come recommended by anyone. Arrange to visit your vet within a day or two of bringing the pup home, and try not to form an attachment until he has been given a clean bill of health. If you have any doubts about the health of the puppy or the litter in general, ask for time to think. This dog will be with you for the next 12 years or more. You will become deeply attached to him or her and serious health problems can be cripplingly expensive to fix. Not to mention very distressing for you both. This needs to be the right decision for you and your family. Whilst health problems in puppies can be devastating the majority of puppies are robust and healthy and providing you take the precautions outlined above, you are unlikely to have any problems. More information on puppies Check out our Labrador Puppies section for more help and advice on choosing your new friend. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was first published on 21st November , and was updated to include new information in March .Readers Also Liked. No doubt, selection of the right pup to meet one's particular expectations is extremely important. Making a correct choice can improve the odds of producing an excellent retriever with the least amount of frustration and perhaps even avoid disappointment. The first and most important point to consider is that one must approach puppy acquisition as a genetic selection process rather than trying to utilize methods to select a promising prospect from a particular litter. Focus not so much on picking a pup, rather pick litters. The way to pick potentially successful liters is to pick a breeder who has proven brood stock and a credible reputation for producing healthy pups genetically predisposed to perform in a manner you desire. Carefully consider your expectations for your future gundog. What are the desirable traits? What will the dog's primary functions include? What breeds interest you and why? Once you decide on a breed and the desired traits are defined based upon your intended uses, then seek a reputable breeder who has experience producing pups which exemplify the traits that best suit your purposes. Genes determine the reaction of the dog to its environment, as well as, confirmation and soundness. Genes are the building blocks of heredity and are passed from parents to offspring in a predictable manner. The topic of genetics can quickly progress into a lengthy discussion unsuitable for this article but one can count on knowing this-like begets like. Total outcrosses, matings of unrelated genetics, may produce the occasionally exceptional offspring, but this is an unpredictable undertaking. The only way to gain predictability of traits is to seek an experienced breeder with proven bloodlines which produce successful progeny. This will usually involve some form of line breeding. The mating of similar genetic relationships line breeding is conducted to intensify qualities within the line and to improve upon the predictable traits within litters. Line breeding is successfully practiced in all forms of livestock. Line breeding itself produces nothing, good or bad, it merely intensifies what is genetically there in the bloodline. Most professional breeders use some form of line breeding as soon as they find a successful combination. In other words, outcrosses, random matings, despite the parents' apparent abilities and or titles, will not assure that the traits of the parents will be passed to the offspring. Only line breeding can offer this possibility. Consider, too, there is often as much difference between litter mates in ability, temperament, and tractability as one might find between separate litters within a breed. The chance factor remains, but the odds improve if the buyer: 1. Buys from established, reputable breeders who know their business. Buys pups from breeders who specialize in producing the type retriever they desire. Buys pups produced by excellent gundog parents who have produced proven progeny from previous matings. Select litters with strong mother lines. Dams should be trained hunting dogs and she should possess the qualities you desire in your dog, not just in the sire. Dams project more influence on the litter than the sire. Good bitches are seldom mated to poor dogs, yet the opposite frequently occurs. A poor bitch is unlikely to produce good pups despite the virtues of the sire. Look closely for desirable traits and strength in the trailing bottom line of the pedigree That is the dam, granddam, great granddam, etc. Excellent mothers are important. Don't pick litters based solely on the number of titles in the pedigree. These are impressive achievements to be sure, but they are not indicators of natural tractability, temperament, and gamefinding ability. Nor do titles indicate whether the traits may be passed successfully to the offspring. Evaluate parents of pups based upon gundog standards important to your needs and their demonstrated ability to produce good pups. Seek out sires, dams and grandparents that project strong genetic traits that can be passed through to their offspring. Research has indicated grandsires and granddams prove to have more genetic influence upon the litter than the sire and dam. Genetics can influence natural gifts, such as: calm temperament. Normally Lab puppies travel well, find more on this here. For many people it can be stressful not knowing how to pick or why you should pick any specific puppy. We will try to clear things up here so that you have a few criteria to select with. For the most part, the genetics of the purebred Lab puppies in the litter are set once the parents mate. When we choose to keep parents to breed we are choosing the best specimens and mating them with the hope that we are going to be creating even better puppies through the combination of their genes. Improving on weak areas with each litter is what professional breeding is all about. Now that you understand the genetic potential is set, you will work within your litter to try to narrow down the puppy who goes home with you. Keep in mind, that all of the puppies in the litter are of high quality. So, standing over the puppy box containing the puppies have a look without saying anything or doing anything. The puppies will either have different colored collars or different colored ribbons on them to identify them. Each different color corresponds to a unique microchip number implanted in that puppy. What are you looking for? Well, observe which puppies are the most active and the least active. Observe which puppy is bossy and more of a leader, and, which is more of a follower. Are there any outgoing puppies? Are there any shy ones? Please understand that puppies and all dogs for that matter will feed off of the energy of the animals and the humans around them. So, if you bring your children and they are full of energy, talking loudly, excited, etc… then the puppies will pick up on that and imitate their behavior to an extent. We love to see the kids! The vet bills, training, the poop cleaning, nail clipping, taking out to go pee at 6 am, trips to the vet, and so on are yours. All yours! So unless you feel your children have better skills to choose the puppy than you, try to leave them out of it. You want to use the criteria here to select the lab puppy that fits your family the closest. Ok, there are a couple of things I need to say first. On your pick up day and depending on how many puppies are in the litter, your puppies may be sleeping. The good news to this issue is that there will not be a bad puppy in the litter. As professional Labrador Retriever Breeders our primary goal is to create better Labrador Retriever puppies with each litter we produce. Depending on what the issue was with the puppy we would care for them or home them with a person who fully understood any issue present and was willing to care for them. Getting back to selecting your puppy. As you watch over the litter try to narrow it down to two puppies you are interested in and watch them. Look for any excitement, playfulness, shyness, active or lying around, or differences in color, size, or other physical attributes such as tail size, ear size, forehead and snout size, etc…. This means that these dogs are super smart, even tempered, loving and willing to please all because of the Labrador Retriever breed and the selections we make in our breeding program. Training is key to having a well behaved Purebred Lab Retriever puppy. On the day you pick up your puppy it will be normal for the puppies to be on the shy side. Though they have been socialized by 5 or 6 of us they get use to us. So the new sights, smells, sounds etc… that you bring will all be a brand new thing for them. At 8 weeks old they are unsure if these new stimuli are safe and they may be cautious coming to you. Again, all normal. On the other hand, a puppy who comes right up to you with no apprehension may be the one you want. Especially if you are a hunter and you need your dog to work to retrieve game. You should also know that if a puppy runs from its pack to see you it is not choosing you! It could be the more dominant or most curious puppy and it would approach anyone coming to see the litter not just you. Can we pick your lab puppy? Sure we can! The latest research we have read on the topic indicates that how a puppy behaves at 8 weeks old when with its litter has no bearing on the puppy it becomes after you train it properly. This means that for most people the training and socialization you provide is much more important than which puppy you choose. We always suggest picking the most easily trainable puppy and we will be happy to do this for you. For the best explanation on setting yourself up properly to lead your puppy to becoming a well behaved dog, please sign up for the www. A generous discount is available for our clients to help you understand how to use positive reinforcement to train your puppy. So we are happy to offer advice and can absolutely choose your puppy in the event you cannot make it, but doing so on your own would be the best scenario. Another method we frown on is the breeder evaluating a puppy with a tool to grade their personality and then comparing that to a marking tool that you complete to grade yourself. Remember when I said puppies respond differently to different people? Well they have basic emotions similar to that of a two year old. If you are not in the room, and I am evaluating the puppy remember my experience with puppies and your lack of , then how can a score sheet be used to match the two of you together effectively? You need to see the puppy behave with you. So you have it narrowed down to two puppies, compare similar personality traits and physical features as I mentioned earlier. Toss in the fact that they have medium energy and poof! Please understand what you see the puppies doing on pick up day are not how they are going to act for the rest of their lives. Puppies are not born with any knowledge of these things and rather need to be trained to understand your boundaries. For this reason we have focused on breeding smarter puppies generation after generation. At least you have some guidelines to use when you arrive. For example, the largest puppy is not necessarily going to be the biggest one when full grown. At 8 weeks old the biggest puppy has been the one who is the pushiest at the food bowl and eats the most at feedings. This is why 8 weeks is the best time for your Lab puppy to go to bond with their human family. As some puppies get larger in size they can push the other smaller puppies around so size then becomes another factor in the development of your puppy. Take your puppy home at 8 weeks old and you have provided them time with their litter to learn puppy to puppy manners weeks 4 to 8 and you have eliminated the possibility of them being bullied by the larger pups after week 8. The larger pups also will not learn to become overly dominant because there are not smaller ones around them to boss around. What about people who want the runt? The first group feel that because the runt is smaller they will listen better when truly listening is a skill learned through training. And the second group feel that a smaller puppy is sick and weak and will not thrive. Again this is not the case as smaller puppies simply do not have as strong of a food drive than their siblings. The larger issue surrounding the runt is this. Professional Lab Retriever Breeders breed for consistency. It is this consistency in our breeding program that ensures the first picked puppy is of the same high quality as the last picked. So before you arrive to choose your Purebred Lab Puppy, have a couple behavioral qualities in mind and a couple physical qualities. Observe quietly and try not to bring too many people with you so that the puppies only pick up your energy and not the energy of the group. This is the best way to truly observe how the puppy will react to you alone. Narrow it down to a couple and compare them together measuring them against your list of traits. If you make a choice to not train you have to be ready to deal with whatever your Lab decided to become. And one final note. Some people have heard to wipe a blanket where the puppy sleeps or on the mother because the scent will calm the puppy in your home. Think of it this way, if your puppy smells the mother or one of its littermates what does it do next? So a blanket with this scent on it will cue your puppy to look for someone who is likely not coming back. Imagine the frustration of a puppy newly separated from its litter being able to smell them but not find them. We suggest you do not do this to your puppy. Our suggestion to help settle the puppy only if you need to is to put a t shirt into the crate with the scent of the person who they bonded the most to. This is their new pack. Get them accustom to their new pack and the quicker they forget their old pack the easier it will be for them. Love them, set clear guidelines, and enjoy them for years to come. Chocolate Lab with pumpkin.