labrador puppies for sale in the north east

Our extensive collection features hundreds of stunning photos of these adorable canines in various poses, settings, and backgrounds. Type of Images Available Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images features a variety of different types of photos, including portraits, candid shots, outdoor and indoor images, and more. From close-ups of their expressive faces to action shots of them running and playing, our images capture the energy and character of this amazing breed. Our images can be used for a multitude of purposes, including websites, blog posts, advertisements, social media, books, magazines, and more. Whether you're sharing photos of your own German Shepherd puppy or you need images for a commercial project, our collection is a great resource. Tips for Choosing the Right Image Choosing the right image can make all the difference when it comes to creating a compelling design or message. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect image: Consider the mood you want to convey Think about the context in which the image will be used Look for images with high resolution and clarity Take into account the color scheme of your project and select images that complement it Choose images that have a clear focal point and aren't cluttered Why Choose Our Images? Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images offers a unique combination of quality, variety, and affordability. We pride ourselves in providing images that are visually stunning while still being accessible to a wide range of individuals and businesses. Plus, we offer flexible licensing options, including Royalty-free and Extended licenses, to fit your specific needs. With our images, you can create compelling projects that capture the essence of this beloved breed, no matter what your design or marketing goals may be. So why wait? Browse our collection today to discover the perfect German Shepherd puppy image for your next project! These pups are incredibly intelligent and capable canines who are ready to work. And German Shepherd puppies are too cute! Advertisement Remember, you can get any kind of dog, including a GSD, from shelters and rescues, so always adopt! They tend to be one-family pets, meaning they can be suspicious of strangers. They will help you redecorate your floors Do you have a hardwood floor? Although absolutely gorgeous, Shepherds are shedders to the max. Prepare for a snow globe of hair to poof off your pup any time you give them a big snuggle, which will be more often than not. Playing around is no game The German Shepherd is a very active breed and needs lots of physical stimulation and playtime. When you first get your puppy, playing may consist of nipping due to their herding background. When your GSD is fully grown, they may love to wrestle around and forget how big they are. These pups are always up for snuggling with others, including kids and other pets. Softies who are also busy bodies If you want a German Shepherd puppy in your life, you have to really want your dog to be a part of every little bit of your daily routine. Morning showers? Your pup will want to sit right outside to make sure you rinse off the soap. Your bed? Highly intelligent and curious, Shepherds want to know what is going on all of the time. German Shepherds will attach at the hip and make the right person the happiest dog parent on the planet. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Though size varies between individuals, a standard German Shepherd weighs about 60 pounds. Whether you already own a German Shepherd pup or are looking into it, be prepared for a hefty lap dog! Continue to 7 of 16 below. They were originally bred for their striking good looks and intelligence, making for a great working dog on the police force and in the military. They were so cute that dog-lovers in other countries soon caught on and began breeding them themselves. Continue to 8 of 16 below. These dogs are very protective of their homes and family and make excellent guard dogs. Continue to 9 of 16 below. They need stimulation, even if they are a family pet and not a trained deputy. This can be in the form of playful games, puzzle toys, tricks , and obedience training. Otherwise, German Shepherds may show off some unpleasant behavior, like chewing. Continue to 10 of 16 below. Continue to 11 of 16 below. Continue to 12 of 16 below. They perk up as they grow older, making them look extra tall and important. Continue to 13 of 16 below. Beautiful all black and all white German Shepherds are out there, too. Continue to 14 of 16 below. Continue to 15 of 16 below. This breed is inherently athletic and courageous—nothing can stop them, not even water. Continue to 16 of 16 below. She loves exercise. I always tie her to my bike and she runs next to me. She has never shown aggression but usually barks when a stranger knocks at the door. I taught her the commands sit, down, stay and come here. My sister taught her to say "Hi" with her paws. Her parents May and June came to Nepal from Japan. My Japanese friend gifted me with Dixy at the age of 1 and a half months. She is very friendly to every person who comes to my house. She likes to sit beside me all the time. Early mornings she likes to drink half a liter of cow's milk, at around 11 a. She enjoys chewing bones all of the time. Beau is trained in protection and obedience. She is a bit overweight due to her hip dysplasia, but still maintains her amazing personality and quality look of a Shepherd. Beau loves to play in the snow or in her kiddy pool in the summers. She is a very active old girl. She is super friendly and just strives on attention. Beau has three siblings, which happen to be cats. She loves to curl up with the cats in the living room to take a nap. She is currently training for her CDX, has won a few blue ribbons in conformation, and just began Schutzhund training. Apollo the GSD—"He is very clever and energetic. He weighs 85 pounds and his height is 26 inches. These pups are incredibly intelligent and capable canines who are ready to work. And German Shepherd puppies are too cute! Remember, you can get any kind of dog, including a GSD, from shelters and rescues, so always adopt! They tend to be one-family pets, meaning they can be suspicious of strangers. Although absolutely gorgeous, Shepherds are shedders to the max. Prepare for a snow globe of hair to poof off your pup any time you give them a big snuggle, which will be more often than not. When you first get your puppy, playing may consist of nipping due to their herding background. When your GSD is fully grown, they may love to wrestle around and forget how big they are. These pups are always up for snuggling with others, including kids and other pets. Softies Who Are Also Busy Bodies If you want a German Shepherd puppy in your life, you have to really want your dog to be a part of every little bit of your daily routine. Morning showers? Your pup will want to sit right outside to make sure you rinse off the soap. Your bed? Highly intelligent and curious, Shepherds want to know what is going on all of the time. German Shepherds will attach at the hip and make the right person the happiest dog parent on the planet. German Shepherd puppy in grass close-up of German Shepherd puppy German Shepherd puppy in profile German Shepherd puppy on rock German Shepherd puppy lying down on lawn German Shepherd puppy looking at camera German Shepherd puppy on snow German Shepherd puppy in yard Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Would you adopt a German Shepherd Puppy? Do you have experience with these adorable pups? Let us know in the comments below!

As affectionate and intelligent pets, Labs are the perfect fit for families who can give their pups lots of love and activity. And when you combine these traits with other personalities from popular breeds such as German shepherds, corgis , and huskies, the mixes are sure to melt hearts. A Bit On Labrador Retriever Mixed Breed Health and Genetics Before adopting a new puppy, it's important to understand the health and genetics of the breed in order to provide all the loving care you can. When dog breeds mix, traits from both parents present themselves in the breed, creating both adorable physical characteristics and loving personalities as well as various health risks. Theresa Entriken , DVM, says health risks aren't meant to discourage pet parents from choosing mixes, but it's important to stay alert for as your pet ages. Early signs typically include noisy panting , a raspy bark and tiring easily with exercise, but later signs can include vomiting and muscle weakness. Before adopting, make sure to research breeders carefully and avoid breeders who aren't putting the puppies' health and safety first. And be sure to consult a veterinarian to learn about the health risks of both parent breeds. Now, on to these fun-loving mixed dog breeds! Along with being adorable and easy to train, their curly poodle coat offers minimal shedding for us allergy-suffering dog lovers. Whether you're looking for a companion to explore the outdoors or a puppy to train, this mix is sure to deliver the fun. These intelligent dogs are full of energy and affection, making them the ideal companion for any active owner. The caring and active personalities from a Lab and golden retriever makes this crossbreed a perfect fit for anyone looking for a loving, active dog. Beagles are natural scent hounds and Labs love to have fun outdoors, so this gentle mix will want long walks to sniff every corner they can. Finding black Lab Golden Retriever puppies for sale? The black Lab Golden Retriever mix is still a Goldador. But, by using a black Lab parent, many breeders aim to get puppies with a black coat. A black Lab Golden Retriever mix will have the same general traits as any other Goldador. They will be friendly, energetic, and playful. Black Lab Golden Retriever mix dogs are also great with kids and other animals. Especially when they are socialized and trained well from a young age. This dog is simply a puppy with one Golden Retriever parent and one black Labrador Retriever parent. Since the genes for a black dog coat are dominant, many breeders hope that they will get black Goldador puppies when they breed with a black Labrador parent. But, first generation mixes like this are quite unpredictable. A Goldador with a black Lab parent will usually have a black coat. But, in some instances, puppies may have lighter, or golden coats. Other than their coat color, their traits will vary as much as any other Goldador dog. It will depend which parent they take after the most. Generally, you will have a medium to large dog. Typically, a Goldador will grow between .They usually weigh between 55 and 80 pounds as adults. Females are often smaller than males. In terms of coat type, this mix will have a double layered coat that sheds all year round, and more heavily during shedding seasons. Their coat may be slightly longer if they take after their Golden Retriever parent, with some feathering around their legs and chest. However, a puppy must receive two recessive genes one from each parent to have a non-black coat color. So, it is much less likely that your puppies will have golden or chocolate coats if they have a black Lab parent. If your heart is set on a black Goldador puppy, let your breeder know. They may be able to give you first pick of the litter to ensure you get the shade you want. Both parents of this Goldador mix are known to be friendly, energetic, and loving. Especially toward their close families. Generally, when they are well socialized as puppies, they will get along very well with everyone they meet. This includes other pets and even young children. However, since they are quite large dogs, they can accidentally bump and hurt young kids during play. Socialization is Proven to Help Studies into dog behavior have shown that socialization from a young age helps to prevent behavioral issues in older dogs. This includes aggression and fearfulness. So, you should train and socialize your black Goldador mix well from a young age to get the best of their temperament. You should also meet the parent dogs to see what traits your puppy may inherit. If its parents are friendly and keen to meet you, your puppy will often be similar! Most families get on well with a black Lab Golden Retriever mix. They tend to love everyone they meet, especially when socialized and trained from a young age. These dogs need families that have plenty of time to dedicate, and who can take their dog with them everywhere. Plenty of Energy On top of this, a black Goldador is a very energetic dog, that comes from two hardworking, athletic parents. A black Lab Golden Retriever mix will usually be as healthy as its parents. Mixed breed puppies like this are vulnerable to the same health issues as their parent breeds. Common problems to look out for include: Cancer big issue for Golden Retrievers Hip dysplasia. Mixed Breeds By K9 of Mine Staff 19 min read July 14, 23 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Labrador retrievers are well known for their even-tempered personalities, loyalty, fun-loving natures, and complete devotion to their family members. In fact, the Labrador retriever continues to be the most popular dog breed in the US — a position the breed has held for 27 years straight! Take a gander and share your thoughts in the comments below! Note: K9 of Mine does not endorse irresponsible breeding — please keep in mind that this photo collection is intended for enjoyment and pooch appreciation, not as any kind breeding recommendation or resource. There is very little official data about mixed breed dogs, so the photos displayed here are chosen based on information given by owners. We are unable to personally verify the breed heritage of the pooches shown here — instead, we must simply trust that owners are truthfully describing their dogs with they share photos of their mixed breed canines. TL;DR: Just enjoy the cute photos of doggos! The Basics of the Labrador Retriever Before we introduce you to some of the cutest Lab mixes around, it is important that we talk about a few of the basics of Labradors. This will help you decide whether a Lab mix may be a good fit for your family! Labradors usually weigh between 60 and 80 pounds and stand about 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder. Labs have moderately long lifespans of about 12 years, though some reach even older ages. Labs are members of the sporting group, who were originally bred to help fisherman tend nets, until their owners started using them to retrieve downed birds. Labrador retrievers have a friendly, happy-go-lucky demeanor, and they usually get along with most two- and four-footers they encounter. Labs are full of energy and often make superb running or hiking companions. Labrador retrievers can make great pets for first-time dog owners, so long as you provide plenty of exercise and stimulation each day. Labs are people-oriented dogs, who thrive best in homes that are rarely empty. Labrador retrievers are generally intelligent and eager to please, making training a breeze. Labs tend to shed pretty heavily, thanks to their thick double coats. Labrador retrievers do often suffer from a few common health problems, including patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans. No dog breed is perfect for all situations or scenarios, but as you can see, Labs are certainly one of the most appealing breeds in the world and they have quite a bit to offer the right family! Without further ado, here are some Labrador designer breeds that are sure to steal your heart. In some cases, like the Labradoodle a cross between a Labrador retriever and a poodle , the names are pretty popular and used widely. Australian Shepherd Lab mixes also produces some puppers with pretty adorable coat color patterns , which just adds to their appeal. These pups are best paired with active owners. But while they may have blockier builds than typical Labs, most of these guys and gals are big softies, who love nothing more than cuddling with their humans. Like Labs, American bulldogs excel at a wide variety of tasks, making them great all-around dogs for families, farmers, hunters, and more! Labs are lovable goofballs who are all about fun and games, while Akitas are no-nonsense pooches, who project an air of competence and quiet dignity. One pooch in the litter may take after the Lab parent, while another may more closely resemble the Akita. Name aside, these playful pups have energy levels that are off-the-charts, so be sure you have a big yard and plenty of time to visit the park before adding one of these dogs to your family. Well, the Beagador may be just the thing! But, they can be a bit aloof around strangers. But when you cross a bullmastiff with a Lab — a dog who views all strangers as potential pals — all bets are off! These mixes can be a bit of a house-keeping headache, as Labs shed pretty heavily, while bullmastiffs are Olympic-caliber droolers. Labs have held the 1 spot since , but the cocker spaniel has sat atop the popularity pyramid in 23 different years since the s. Note that there are two different corgi breeds the Cardigan Welsh corgi and the Pembroke Welsh corgi , and each will produce a slightly different version of this mixed breed. Either are considered Lab Corgi dogs. Doberdor Labrador Retriever X Doberman Pinscher A post shared by Charli the doberdor charlithedoberdor Given that Dobermans and Labs are both very affectionate dogs who bond strongly with their owners, Doberdor mixed breed pups will make great companions for individuals and families alike. The Doberdor loves his human family and will make it known with endless puppy kisses and loyalty. Wanna see more Doberman mixes? Check out 15 of our favorites here! You may just want to consider the Dalmador. Labs make pretty good jogging partners themselves, and Dalmatians can run for days. Honestly, there are a variety of Dalmatian mixes available for fans of polka-dotted pooches. Dachsador Labrador Retriever X Dachshund. Should a Lab Mix take after their Labrador Retriever parent, they will be a playful, energetic, and affectionate dog that loves their families. Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs that tend to have an extended puppyhood. They are also social, friendly, and tend to be patient and gentle with children. This makes them fantastic pets as they also tend to get along well with other dogs and even other pets, despite their retriever tendencies. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. You still want to ask questions about the other parent breed as they are bound to introduce some potential quirks of their own. Although Labs are happiest with room to run, they adapt well to apartments as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. They also do well in most climates, but do not like to spend long stretches of time alone. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? As with purebred dogs, health often depends on reputable breeding practices. Just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Labrador side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Labrador Mix include patellar luxation , hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts. The other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential conditions to this list. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Labrador Retrievers are highly trainable dogs that can be a good fit for owners of any experience level. First-time owners may have a challenge at first with their high energy and exuberance, but tend to be successful. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. If the other parent breed tends to be more challenging to train, then you will want to be prepared for that potential and be ready to enroll in puppy training classes if you need them. A Lab Mix can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should they inherit the Labrador Retriever coat, it will be short and will shed throughout the year with heavier shedding as the seasons change. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath keep a Lab coat healthy. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Because dental care is often overlooked, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth every day or using an enzyme toothpaste daily in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy working dogs that need plenty of exercise and a job to do to be happy. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you should expect a Labrador Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed sits in a lower activity range, you will still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog should they take after their Lab parent. Fully-grown Labrador Retrievers tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Labs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Featured Labrador Mix Article. This little guy continues to grow and learn every day. He tires himself out every day trying to keep up with the big pups. But his favorite thing is still chasing leaves. He is so proud when he finally catches one! He just loves spending time in the yard, exploring whatever he can. On nice days, he just loves to lay in the sun like every other lab! Rocky is a cutey. Those eyes still get me every time! Rocky will be available soon and will make some lucky family very happy with his adorable puppy ways. He pleasantly surprises me in so many ways. Rocky has been really making progress in housebreaking. Baby steps. He now eats two meals a day, instead of 3 smaller meals. He seems pretty content with this. In fact, since I leave the door open all the time, he goes in when he feels like it. I do think he would be just fine if a baby gate kept him in a room. Today, I brought him to a small party, just to see how he would be in a strange place with a number of people. Once again, Rocky surprised me. He was confident and calm, taking pets from everyone and exploring nicely. He met their resident lab, all 85 lbs. He is mature beyond his age. He just loves people and snuggling. He is bright and eager to please. We will keep working with Rocky although he is awesome just the way he is. February 16, Today Rocky and I got to spend some real one-on-one time. We spent time outside where he loved chasing balls and even bringing them back to me. Of course, once the fur sibs were back, he was right back in the pack. Even though Dolly is 3 times his size, he loves to play tug with her. One of his new, sneaky things is to grab my sneaker or slipper and steal it. By the time the day is done, the three of them are hogging up the couch again! Rocky really is a sweet little guy. February 14, This little guy is a total love bug! He is never far from wherever I am. Even while I am working, he is sitting under the desk or nearby. He has discovered soup bones and tries to carry them in his mouth, even though they seem a bit too big for him. February 12, Rocky did pretty well on his first night here. Even so, he was perfectly fine heading outside on his own. Between the walks and finding every stick in the yard. Rocky napped a good bit. He definitely loves the attention and snuggling with anyone who is around. Rocky is also a bright little guy. In one day, he has learned where the food and treats are kept and also caught on that ringing the bells on the doors means go outside. February 11, Rocky is an 18lb. This morning, before the sun came up, Rocky rolled into town. After a quick trot, he was ready to roll. Since we live close, the ride was short and he was great in the car. He settled in quickly and really is amazing. No doubt he will be gaining on them soon! He was good meeting the neighbors and getting pats from everyone. He has settled nicely, finding his bed as well as his toys. He is finally getting tired, making himself right at home on the couch with his new brother! More tomorrow! Adopt Your New Best Friend! If you need additional information about the adoption process or whether you are in our coverage area, please send an e-mail to our Rescue at info brooklinelabrescue. Brookline Labrador Retriever Rescue is a c 3 non-profit volunteer organization funded entirely by donations. Donations are always needed to help with veterinary costs, transportation, and supplies for our dogs. For information on donating to BLRR please click here.

Rescue Me! Grooming Your Mastiff Mixed With Boxer Boxer Mastiffs are easy to groom overall but generally shed in large amounts, which is why you should schedule days that you thoroughly brush their fur. Daily brushing is essential even for your short hair because it eliminates and lessens dirt accumulation as well as hair accumulation in the house. Ear and teeth hygiene should be an everyday priority to avoid dirt and bacterial accumulation in the ears and cavities or tartar, which could lead to infections in the future. Some of the conditions to take note of are: Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic disease wherein there is an abnormal formation of the hip socket, which causes immense pain for the dog. If left untreated may cause crippling and painful arthritis of the joints. Due to excessive gastric content, the stomach of the dog becomes overstretched. It may cause severe pain when moving. Ectropion: This condition is more common in Mastiffs. The lower eyelids appear droopy due to an abnormality and may result in conjunctivitis or keratitis. Make sure you make arrangements with members of the family to ensure an adequately measured amount of food for your puppy. Choose gifts that have low calories instead, so that obesity is avoidable. The best choice of food would be those that are rich in protein for proper muscle building and repairing. Protein can be obtained through dog food alone, or you could ask your local vet for additional snacks and supplements. You can find protein in meat such as chicken, lamb, fish, and beef. Meat meals are concentrated forms sans the moisture but offer the same amount of protein as well. Fats are essential for eye and brain development because of the rich sources of Omega-3 Fatty acids. Chicken meat and fish oil are excellent sources. Avoid giving your Boxmas foods rich in common allergens such as corn, soy, dairy, wheat, and potatoes. Also refrain from giving any food coloring, as these may compromise the immune system. Never give them table food because it might cause different allergic reactions ranging from skin allergies to difficulty in breathing. To give your Boxer crossed with Mastiff better nutrition, check the following high quality and nutrient-packed dog food available on the market: Fromm Large Breed Puppy Gold Formula: This is a brand that ensures there are no allergens or irritants included. Specially formulated for puppies who are known to grow over fifty pounds, protein and fat levels are moderately incorporated. DHA-rich salmon oil is a bonus for brain and eye development. There are additional vitamins and antioxidants as well as a grain-free formula. Protein and fat levels are lower compared to different brands in the market but still packed with needed nutrients and vitamins to ensure proper growth and development. Royal Canin Boxer Adult Dry Food: This product boasts of high-quality proteins and nutrients, as well as the incorporation of L-carnitine. This combination helps your Mastiff mixed with Boxer maintain its overall built, burn fat efficiently, and avoid obesity. Orijen Puppy Large: The ingredients are fresh and high in protein. It consists of chicken and turkey, as well as fish. Your dog may be big or small, but you need to keep it happy and healthy all the time. Never give them the worst dry dog food that is low in nutrients and filled with by-products, and opt for best dry dog food instead. For the littlest of munchkins, check out our list of best puppy food brands , and for gray-coated, wise grandpa-doggos, opt only for the best senior dry dog food. Your stunning mixed heartthrob carries the genes of their super-gorgeous and incredibly different parents. But that means that you are in luck as you can offer your little charmer both the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food. Let them have a final say in which kibble they nibble. In line with the diet, also schedule a daily exercise regimen for your Boxmas. They are highly energetic and exuberant by nature, which means they require at least an hour of intense activities and exercises. This program includes running, walking, playing fetch, obedience exercises, and jogging. Never contain your Boxer crossed with Mastiff in a small space such as apartments or condos. Fulfill their need to stay fit by choosing a home that has adequate running space if you plan to adopt a Boxmas. Another option is to take trips to the park or jog around the neighborhood. If left idle for too long, they can be agitated or easily distracted and tend to destroy or chew on things out of frustration. Here are some toys to help exercise your Boxmas: OxGord BazooK-9 Tennis Ball Launcher Gun: Since your hybrid is energetic and loves running, this tennis ball launcher is a perfect toy when visiting parks or playing in the backyard. Invest in this versatile product so that it also saves you energy from having to throw the ball. It prevents the potential risk for periodontal disease. KONG Wubba Dog Toy: Made of nylon and has two balls inside one chewable and one squeaky , the Wubba dog toy will be a Boxmas favorite because of its durability and appearance. There is no need to continually throw away and replace toys when you purchase this product. Your hybrid will engage in chewing and decrease any risks of periodontal diseases as well. It can be a challenge for most owners because of the intelligence plus energetic combo, but with patience and determination, your hybrid will follow proper orders in no time. Boxers are easy to lead and train. This trait will save you a lot of time and effort. Make sure to familiarize yourself and your pup with play biting and attacking an intruder or stranger. If you can, plan for the whole week instead. It can be a challenge to keep their attention focused on the training, but with perseverance and patience, everything will eventually pay off. Encourage positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement will always be one of the best and most endorsed strategies to train a dog because it taps into the mental aspect. Your hybrid will automatically think that the specific actions you want your dog to do will earn a treat. Apply this in all tricks and strategies you wish to impart. Another thing to remember is always to have a big space for them to move around when around children to avoid any unwanted accidents. Your hybrid is a large dog and might be prone to crashes if confined in a small space. You can renovate your backyard and put obstacles or toys, or you may visit the park and play with other dogs. But in general, Boxer Mastiffs are very loyal, fun, active, and protective. The temperament from both parent breeds ensures that there is no aggressiveness or violence along with, of course, proper training. Older members of the family can pitch in and help training the big fellow, and this also allows more exposure to different people. This plan will avoid the unwanted one-owner type of dog in the future, as well as agitation and idleness. As an owner, it is your responsibility to ensure a healthy diet, proper living space, frequent trips to the vet, and specific training to help your hybrid live the best years of its life. Should a Boxer Mix take after their Boxer parent, they will be a playful, energetic, and friendly dog that loves their family and loves being active with them. Boxers are known for their energetic and exuberant personalities. They bond closely with their families, tend to have a cheerful disposition, and also tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they are friendly dogs, they do have the instinct to protect their families. If the other parent breed has similar traits, then you should be able to expect a similar temperament in a Boxer Mix. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix is a good start. You can also meet the mother dog to get a feel for her temperament and to see what behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should be socializing puppies while they have them, it is up to you to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home. Boxers are moderately adaptable dogs. Because of their energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. But, they can adapt to apartments as long as they get exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. Although all dogs are sensitive to heat, the Boxer is even more so because of their short snout. And, because they bond so closely with their families, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The other parent breed could introduce some traits that could affect the adaptability of a Boxer Mix, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. Knowing more about the other parent breed will help you get a better idea of what range of potential characteristics to expect. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? A Boxer Mix can inherit any combination of the potential health issues common to one or both of their parent breeds. Or, they could inherit none of them. From the Boxer side, potential health conditions include degenerative myelopathy, thyroid deficiency, hip dysplasia, and heart conditions. Boxers also tend to have sensitive digestive systems, which often makes them gassy. As a brachycephalic dog, they will also snort and snore. Because they are a barrel-chested breed, they are also at a higher risk for bloat in dogs. This can become dangerous, especially if the stomach flips, so you want to make sure you reduce the risk when you can and know the symptoms so you can get help as soon as possible. Since reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing issues on to puppies, they should be able to answer your questions. Despite their high energy, Boxers are highly trainable dogs that can be a good fit for owners of any experience level. Because they are intelligent, they pick up on things quickly and can get bored easily. But, they are eager to please their owners and tend to respond well to training. The other parent breed could make a Boxer Mix even easier to train or more difficult to train. You want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed so you know what range of trainability to expect. A Boxer Mix can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a combination of both of them. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Ears should be dry, clean, and free of debris or pests. Unfortunately, many dog owners overlook dental care, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed. Daily walks plus playtime and other activities should be enough for this dog. However, they will likely be up for more activity if you are. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect a Boxer Mix to also be a high-energy dog. However, this is a potential range, so you will still need to be prepared to deal with a Boxer Mix that is high-energy. A Boxer usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can affect this, especially if they are the mother, so you do want to ask about them. A Boxer generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you can likely expect a similar life span in a Boxer Mix. Featured Boxer Mix Article. Be extra cautious with online transactions! We encourage you to read these guidelines before buying or adopting a dog. Have you done your research? Carry out the research so you have the necessary knowledge of the pet you are getting. Since owning a dog is a big commitment, you should research about the breed fully to make sure it fits your current lifestyle and budget. Have you seen the puppy? Take time to visit the advertiser's home to confirm if they are genuine. Do not settle for online communications and photos. UK Pets does not verify the authenticity of all advertisers. The advertiser should allow you to personally see the puppies with the puppies' mother. If they keep on giving you excuses why you could not visit their home or the address stated in the advert is not the accurate and permanent location of the pet, consider this a red flag. Avoid online payment Never pay anything online through money transfer companies especially if you have not personally visited the advertiser and seen the puppy, this includes deposit and delivery cost for the puppy. There is also no means to recover your money if issues arise. Before closing a deal, you must have signed a well-defined contract. Responsible Advertiser The advertiser should only release the puppies when they are 8 weeks old or older. They should be responsible enough to know that separating the puppy from the mother earlier results in medical and behavioural issues.

Feeding your puppy a high-quality , complete and balanced puppy food helps set him up for a long and healthy life as an adult dog. This raises a lot of questions for first-time and even veteran puppy owners, though. How much should you feed your puppy and when? When should you stop feeding puppy food? Get answers to these questions and more in our complete puppy feeding guide below. Our experts answer your questions and offer advice to help set you and your puppy up for success. What to Feed a Puppy When it comes to feeding puppies, there are a lot of factors to consider. Overall nutrition, breed size and the type of food all play a role. Feeding puppies a complete and balanced puppy food ensures they get the proper nutrition to develop and grow into healthy adult dogs. Puppy foods are formulated with a balance of nutrients to help puppies grow up healthy and happy. Look for formulas rich in high-quality proteins to support their growing bodies. Fat and carbohydrates supply the energy active and playful puppies need, while calcium supports developing teeth and bones and DHA helps support healthy brain and vision development. If you have a large breed puppy, he may benefit from a large breed-specific puppy formula. Small breeds can also benefit from small breed-specific puppy formulas. Regardless of breed size, the food should be complete and balanced for growing puppies. The difference in formulas comes down to the unique needs of large and small breeds. Large dogs have a higher risk of developing joint problems, so a large breed puppy food should include proper levels of nutrients to support their healthy growth and development. Small breeds may prefer smaller kibble so they can more easily chew their food, which helps ensure they get all the nutrients they need. This results in a nutrient-dense, high-energy formula which adults and puppies need to support a healthy lifestyle. As you walk the dog food aisles, you may see both dry and wet puppy food s. This can make it harder to decide what to feed your puppy. Fortunately, as long as both the wet and dry formulas are complete and balanced for growing puppies, you can feed either one to your pup with confidence. You and your puppy may have a preference when it comes to dry versus wet. Feeding a combination of the two is also an option. Use the calories reported on the package to understand how much wet food will replace the dry and vice versa. In this scenario, you could substitute a thirteen-ounce can of wet food for one cup of the daily dry food recommendation. How Much to Feed a Puppy Now you know what to feed your puppy, but just how much food does he need each day? A Labrador Retriever will weigh more at maturity than a Russell Terrier , for example. So, the larger dog requires more food as a puppy. The chart below can help you determine how much dry food to feed your puppy. You should also review the specific feeding instructions on the back of his puppy food and consult with your veterinarian. Puppy Feeding Chart. A low-calorie diet is enough for an older dog, but it should still be full of nutrients. Moderate protein and fat content are still needed. Typically, Golden Retriever puppies need to be fed at least three times daily. Meanwhile, adult and senior Golden Retrievers are satisfied with two meals per day. A Golden Retriever puppy should be fed three times a day at scheduled intervals until it reaches six months. You may divide the three meals into breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When your Golden Retriever puppy turns six months, you can begin feeding it twice a day until it reaches adulthood. For adult Golden Retrievers, the most ideal feeding schedule will be twice a day with equally spaced meals. You can give it high-quality food in the morning and evening. The same goes for senior dogs but with fewer calories. For an easier routine, you can create a customized feeding plan based on your daily schedule or commitments. A proper routine also prevents under and overfeeding. As Golden Retrievers have a ravenous appetite, you might be tempted to feed your dog often. But you should be firm and watchful to avoid any weight-related problems. Here, we provided the optimal feeding times you can follow for your Golden Retriever: 2 to 6 months: am — am, pm, pm 7 months to 8 years and above: am — am, pm — pm Ideally, you should not feed your Golden Retriever puppy after pm. Instead, give your pup an ice cube to chew on when it gets thirsty. Your Golden Retriever puppy should also be fed in the same area daily without distractions. This way, your young puppy can focus on eating its puppy food. Allot around 20 to 30 minutes for your Golden puppy to finish its meal. Remember that some Golden Retrievers like to gorge on more food while some are finicky. Keep your pooch lean with the right feeding schedule, feeding amounts, and proper physical activity. You can also consult your vet for more insights. You may give your pooch kibbles or cold-pressed dog food. Both are packed with necessary ingredients that are filled with nutrients! It can be a bit costly, but wet dog food is still a better choice for Golden Retrievers that are picky eaters and for senior Golden Retrievers, too. You may either mix them or alternate the two at every meal. Just make sure that when you take this approach, your pooch is getting the right food with proper calorie and nutrition requirements. Complete Raw Diet: Feeding your Golden Retriever raw food should be fine after it turns three to four weeks. However, feeding dogs with this option is linked to many food safety concerns. Meanwhile, freeze-dried dog food is also a raw food that has been repacked. Both have no preservatives added and are easy to store with long shelf lives. When choosing the best dog food for your Golden Retriever, you should take into account the ingredients, nutrient details, and feeding instructions as well. Based on the general guidelines, the nutrients you should be looking for besides meat products or animal protein and fats are high-quality grains such as brown rice. Fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals are also vital. This can be ideal for dogs that are sensitive to different types of grain. But grain-free food has been controversial due to its link with heart disease. Your vet can also help you personalize a diet plan for your dog. Curious to see what a homemade meal looks like for Golden Retrievers? Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are known for their strong appetite, and on top of this, they are also curious. Several foods are toxic to Golden Retrievers, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, walnuts, and macadamia nuts. Alcoholic drinks and foods that contain xylitol are also dangerous for your dog. Even a tiny amount of alcohol can cause severe issues to your dog, such as vomiting, and diarrhea, among others. Meanwhile, xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is also unsafe for your pooch. If your Golden Retriever consumes too much xylitol, it can result in a dangerously low blood sugar level and even acute liver failure. This substance is usually found in sweet candies, gums, cookies, and the like, so make sure that you check what treats you give your dog. Read food labels or buy organic brands instead. Other vegetables that are harmful to your Golden Retriever are Brussel sprouts, kale, and wild mushrooms. The pits, skins, and leaves of avocados contain a toxin called persin. Meanwhile, cherries contain cyanide which can be extremely harmful to your dog. You may also consult your vet to check the safety of specific foods, especially if your pooch has allergies or sensitivities. These gradual transitions typically occur over 5 to 7 days. The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months. There is also info on how to keep your puppy and your adult at his or her optimum weight. Scroll down to find growth charts to make sure your puppy is growing at the proper rate and is within the right weight range for his age. If you are looking for information on what to feed, go to How to Choose a Dog Food. Unlike with human children, a puppy that is overfed will grow too fast before they grow too fat. A good example is where a smaller puppy at 10 weeks was overfed and his growth was compared to a puppy that was correctly fed. The growth of your puppy needs to be controlled. General Guidelines for Puppies Below are some general guidelines on how much to feed puppies. Most dog food bags suggest feeding too much. Increase to about 3 cups a day by 5 months for boys and by 6 months for girls. Golden Retrievers at this age are supposed to look lanky and all Golden Retrievers act like they are starving when fed the correct amount. If left to eat as much as they want, they will all grow too fast. In the wild, dogs do not have unlimited access to eat as much as they want. They work for their food. Caloric Needs Greatly Decrease at About a Year When puppies reach about months, their caloric needs begin to decrease. Some males might need 4 cups if active and are fed a less expensive food. Make sure you take into consideration the number of extra calories being fed as treats. You should be able to feel their ribs, but not see them even when the dog is wet. If you can see the ribs, increase their food. Decrease the food if you cannot feel them. I always tell people that it is better to underfeed than to overfeed, especially when feeding puppies. Weight Range Charts Following are charts of how puppies should generally grow in weight. Keep in mind that very few puppies need to be at the top of these ranges and if you cannot feel ribs, your dog is overweight even if she is in this weight range. If your dog is still a puppy and she is over these weight ranges, you are feeding her too much. Female Golden Retriever Weight Chart Here is a chart of how girls should generally grow in weight: 2 Months — pounds.

Puppy Supplies Welcome to Buck Family Farm, a place where our love for Golden Retrievers has evolved into a passion for providing families with affectionate, intelligent, and healthy Golden Retriever Puppies. Our goal is to make sure your next family pet is everything you expected and more. Our Dogs Our family specializes in raising Golden Retrievers of all coat shades who enjoy our spacious 20 acre farm. It is important to us that each dog gets special attention and care each day. Our family-style setup allows our dogs to have the luxury of running free and romping around to their hearts' content while playing together and with our family. Also, since this is our at-home classroom, someone is always available to play ball or give a much needed scratch on the belly and pat on the head. Genetic testing is also performed on each dog to help us make wise choices for the best pairings and to produce puppies with the best probability of excellent health. Of high importance however, is taking into consideration the temperament of each of our Golden Retrievers to produce a well balanced and friendly companion, who exhibits all of the classic traits of the breed. Puppies Buck Family Farm puppies are AKC registered, vet certified, have first shots, are wormed and will come to your home with a 1 year health guarantee and a first bag of puppy food. We also send a blanket with mommy's scent and all appropriate NYS paperwork as well as copies of parents' health clearances. Our desire is to make your experience with us and our puppies everything you expected and more. Puppy Applications If you are interested in purchasing a puppy from our farm please fill out an adoption application to help us get to know you a little better. When your application is accepted you will have the opportunity to place your name on our waiting list for an additional fee. This ensures a courtesy call when a particular color, gender or litter of choice has arrived. You will then have the opportunity to place a deposit on one of our puppies. You will receive a courtesy notification of the litters' arrival and have opportunity to place a deposit. However, deposits that are not submitted promptly will affect your pick-order. Deposits are usually non-refundable. Placing a Deposit Once a new litter is born and determined to be healthy and thriving, we open them for deposit. First, to those on our waiting list, and then to families who have pre-approved applications. We choose puppies at 5 weeks of age in the order that deposits were placed. Please contact us for Paypal, zelle and Venmo handles. Visiting We frequently update pictures of all puppies on a regular basis. You will not be allowed to visit the puppies or parents until mommy is settled in and feeling comfortable with visitors. At 5 weeks of age we have adopting families visit our farm and choose their puppy. Puppies are chosen in the order that deposits were placed. Homecoming At 8 weeks of age and after veterinary examination, puppies will be united with their forever families! Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Wisconsin Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Wisconsin? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Wisconsin? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Handler and dog must work together to have a successful outcome. The pinnacle accomplishment for any dog running in field trials is to earn a Field Champion FC title designation or an Amateur Field Champion AFC designation — or for some, it might be both. Your dog runs, finds them, and retrieves them as quickly as he can while responding to hand signals or whistles from you or your handler. Contestants are judged on various traits they are born with including a strong memory for marks, intelligence, perseverance, and more. Section 7. Master Hunting Test. Dogs shall be tested in a minimum of five hunting situations as follows: multiple land marks, multiple water marks, multiple marks on water and land, a land blind and a water blind at least one that shall be a double blind in any combination. There shall be at least three series. At least one of the series shall include a walk-up. The 3 falls must be presented before a dog is sent to retrieve any mark or blind. During a double set of marks 2 falls Master judges shall include additional elements of testing, i. Train ability must be evaluated more stringently than in Senior Hunting Tests. While distance is not crucial, Master Hunting situations are more severe and difficult than Senior Hunting situations. A dog that displays unwillingness must be scored relatively lower on Marking and Perseverance than in the Senior Hunting Test. A dog that goes to the area of the fall and finds the bird unaided shall be scored appreciably higher than a dog that must be handled to a bird. Master Hunting dogs must exhibit those qualities expected in a truly finished and experienced hunting companion. The five qualifying progeny must earn a combined total of 48 points. Two of the five required progeny MAY have a combination of a six point title and a five point title or two six point titles. Points are not cumulative within a category and only the highest achievement earned in each category is recognized. Additional points may be earned by qualifying progeny. All titles below the five point level will only count towards the OS if earned by already qualified progeny. Should the titles of the five qualifying progeny not total 48 points, then additional points including those titles worth less than five points may be counted for those dogs already recognized as qualifying progeny by the point value of other titles earned. GRCA will not track the accumulation of points, only titles. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Florida Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Florida? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Florida? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Christina Donnelly is a small animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare. In fact, golden retrievers have snagged the third spot for most popular dogs in the United States for the last several years! These pooches are on the larger side females range between 55 and 70 pounds, while males weigh in between 65 and 75 pounds and require lots of exercise, which may make some families shy away. But don't let their size—or high energy—deter you. Golden retrievers are highly intelligent, easy to train compared to other breeds of dogs , and incredibly friendly. Whether you're already a golden puppy parent or considering adding one to the family, read on to learn some fun facts and see some seriously cute photos! One even surmises that goldens are descendants of Russian circus dogs! These alternate theories were debunked, however, when the personal records of Lord Tweedmouth of Inverness, Scotland were made public. Lord Tweedmouth was an avid waterfowl hunter who wanted to breed a dog with some serious bird retrieving skills. So, in , he bred a yellow retriever named Nous with a liver-colored Tweed Water Spaniel named Belle. The result? A pack of puppies with the exact hunting skills he was looking for, which he dubbed golden retrievers. Golden retrievers were later brought to North America—sometime during the s—where they became hugely popular for their beautiful looks and sweet personalities. Then, in , they were officially recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club. Continue to 2 of 9 below. They can range from a very light, snowy white, to a yellow-gold, to a dark, coppery red. No matter the color of their coat, however, it's important to never cut your golden retriever's hair—doing so can put her at risk of skin cancer, among other health issues. Their coats are made up of two layers—the long, silky, waterproof outercoat and soft, warming undercoat—and act as insulators against all types of weather. So, if you think to trim your golden's coat in the summer to keep it cool, think again! It'll be much cooler and its skin will be protected from the sun with its coat intact. Continue to 3 of 9 below. Bred to fetch waterfowl, golden retrievers love a good swim session but would be just as happy with long walks, games of fetch, or even agility games. Aim for about one hour of exercise each day, but keep your dog's age and activity levels in mind—you may have to adjust accordingly. Continue to 4 of 9 below. If taken to a rescue site, for example, they can quickly learn how to perform search and rescues to help those in need. In addition to their smarts, golden retrievers' downright sweet demeanors make them the perfect pick for therapy dogs. They can bring a lot of comforts—and joy—to people who have experienced traumatic events, are living in hospitals, or are stressed out during college exams. Continue to 5 of 9 below. Their love of food can cause health problems like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease , so it's important to feed your golden the right amount of food for her weight, age, and activity level. Not sure how much is right for your dog? Talk to your vet about a healthy diet. And take it easy on the treats! It's true that goldens love to eat, but they like to carry non-food items in their mouths, too. Their mouthy nature makes everyday stuff such as sticks, shoes, or even the remote control a highly prized possession. Because golden retrievers have very gentle mouths, challenges such as the golden retriever egg challenge—in which a golden is tasked with holding an uncooked egg in its mouth without breaking it—have popped up all over the web. Continue to 6 of 9 below. Tons of major movies, such as the "Air Bud" series, "Homeward Bound," "A Dog's Purpose," and even thrillers such as "Poltergeist" and "Friday the 13th" have goldens in the credit roll. What's more? There are a few golden retrievers in presidential history, too. Presidents Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford had goldens during their presidencies. Golden retrievers are often considered the all-American dogs, so it makes sense, right? Continue to 7 of 9 below. Todd, the sweet golden pictured here, is one of those puppy heroes. During their hike, Paula nearly stepped on a rattlesnake—and when the snake lunged at her, Todd jumped in front of her to protect her. Although Todd was bitten on the nose and had severe swelling in his face, he's expected to make a full recovery. Because of his heroic deed, the internet has hailed Todd as a very, very good boy. And believe it or not, Todd has found a way to be an even better boy: He has a GoFundMe page to help other heroic doggies who have suffered from the same injuries. Continue to 8 of 9 below. Even in their senior years, it's not uncommon for older goldens to keep up with their puppy counterparts. Continue to 9 of 9 below. And for good reason! Not only are they adorable, but they prove goldens are some of the sweetest puppers around, too. They're one of the most popular dog breeds in America, and there's no surprise why. Besides being smart, active dogs, they're also gorgeous and oh so photogenic. It's no wonder goldens are some of the biggest pet influencers filling our feeds! Gus He's a runner, he's a track star! No seriously, Gus crushes the competition in agility courses. He especially loves dock diving and has even earned his Dock Elite title. What a good boy. Hinckley Parks It seriously can't get any cuter than this. Hinckley Parks' baby brother Teddy loves to snuggle in all his soft golden fur, and we can't blame him. It's no wonder golden retrievers are one of the best family pets in America: they're great with kids! But this one with Jaxson and Sawyer actually turned out adorable! The only thing that seems to be missing from the party are some birthday treats.Margo Who doesn't love splashing around in the water on a hot summer day? Swimming is one of the best ways for dogs to get exercise, and golden retrievers are natural at it. Plus, Margo's coat is absolutely glowing in the sunshine—how photogenic! Maggie Maggie's glasses make her look to be one smart cookie—because she probably is! Golden retrievers are one of the smartest dog breeds. She's serving sophistication, and we're here for it. Arrowood Family What's better than a golden? Five goldens! Sage, Waverly, Tori, Jimmie, and baby Presley are the definition of family goals. I mean, how often can you get five pups to look at the camera? Thor As long as the camera's off, the boss won't suspect a thing, right? After watching us all struggle through WFH life for a year, our dogs are sure going to miss us when we return to the office. Or maybe they'll be like Thor the golden retriever and replace us altogether. Louie Talk about lifegoals! Nothing feels better than a car ride with the windows down and the wind blowing through your hair fur. Krembo Uh, hello, tongue! Krembo's letting it all hang out and we can't blame him. If only we could reach through the screen and boop that nose. And also have us craving some snacks. We could all use a little frolic through a flower field some days, but we'll have to live vicariously through Lola for now. Henry Golden retrievers make wonderful service animals , and Henry proves that they can look good while doing so. He deserves all the pets in the world—but only once he's off the clock. Drake Cue the "awwwws" because this is one of the cutest dogs we've ever seen. His smile tells us all we need to know: he's definitely one of the happiest golden retrievers in the world. Was this page helpful? These gorgeous, friendly dogs are beloved by many, and their images can add warmth and appeal to a wide range of projects. Whether you're designing a website, creating marketing materials, or illustrating a book, we've got a collection of Golden Retriever images to suit your needs. Types of Images Available We offer a wide range of Golden Retriever images in various styles and formats. Our collection includes professional photographs of Golden Retrievers in a variety of poses and settings, including outdoor shots, studio portraits, and action shots. We also offer illustrations and vectors that can be easily customized to meet your needs. These versatile images are great for pet-related businesses, such as pet stores, veterinary clinics, and dog trainers. They can also be used in children's books, greeting cards, and social media posts. Additionally, Golden Retriever images can add charm and personality to websites, blogs, and newsletters for any business or organization. Best Practices for Using Golden Retriever Images Some key tips for using Golden Retriever images effectively include choosing high-quality images that match the tone and style of your project. Make sure that any text or other design elements don't compete with the main image, and consider using a color scheme that complements the colors in the photo or illustration. Also, be mindful of licensing requirements when using stock images, and make sure you have the appropriate permissions before using an image in your work. Overall, Golden Retriever images are a great choice for anyone looking to add warmth, personality, and charm to their projects. Browse our collection today to find the perfect image for your next project. One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Fluffy Golden pup on bench Chunky Golden pup running through yard Golden puppy with big ears looking directly at camera Fluffy pup in a basket on grass Scrawny Golden pup in yard Golden puppy in lavender field Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue.

Contact Can French Bulldogs be left alone? Plus 6 Essential Tips No pet owner likes walking in the house to find overturned and chewed furniture, clawed doors, tattered clothes, and your neighbors complaining about your dog barking and whining for hours in your absence. Does your Frenchie get distressed when you are about to leave the house? Does he go crazy when you come back home? If so then probably your Frenchie is suffering from separation anxiety which results in devastating and destructive behaviors in dogs. It is common for dogs to suffer from separation anxiety. However, some breeds are at high risk and French Bulldogs are one of them. So, can French bulldogs be left alone? French bulldogs detest being left alone at home and are prone to separation anxiety. But simple steps such as establishing a routine, crate training, a good diet, and daily physical activity will help to relax the nerves when alone. If your Frenchie has separation anxiety, he most common symptoms of this disorder include: Excessive vocalization House soiling And destructive behavior. It is more than whining and a serious condition. A doting pet owner would never want to stay away from their fluffy companion for long. However, in our busy lives, it becomes impractical to keep our canine friends with us all the time. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to calm an anxious Frenchie and help them stay at home happily. Are French Bulldogs Clingy? French Bulldogs are the happiest in the company of their owners and can suffer from intense separation anxiety when left alone. Some French Bulldogs can be clingy and follow their owners around wherever they go. They are also called velcro dogs and want to be by your side all the time. This behavior can be attributed to the fact that French bulldogs were originally bred to be toy versions of English bulldogs and were made more dependent on their owners. French bulldogs would mainly work side by side with their owners. Boredom and lack of physical and mental exercise can also make your Frenchie leap up to you as they see you as their primary source of entertainment. Sometimes dogs become clingy when their pet parents give them constant attention which can consequently make them fearful of being alone. However, clinginess can become a problem if it progresses to separation anxiety. If you are someone who spends a lot of time away from home then your Frenchie will not be the right pet for you. They will not be happy sitting around at home alone all day! Signs of Separation Anxiety in French Bulldogs Some of the classic signs of separation anxiety are: Restless behavior Accidents in the house — urinating and defecating Excessive howling and barking when you are gone Pawing to get attention Chewing shoes, clothes or carpets Excessive drooling and panting Becoming anxious when you are about to leave If you see one or more signs in your French Bulldog then that means your dog is suffering from separation anxiety. Difference between Isolation Distress and Separation Anxiety Isolation distress means that your dog hates being left alone and any human or a canine companion would do to keep them company. However, separation anxiety means that the dog is hyper attached to one person and shows stress behaviors when that person is absent even when other humans or pets are present. The problem behavior must be correctly identified before starting to implement any behavior modification techniques. Some French Bulldogs lean towards displaying one of these anxiety disorders or a combination of the two. French Bulldogs are emotionally intelligent and get super anxious when left alone. Untreated anxiety can lead to depression which could result in other illnesses in them. You will have to consult a pet behaviorist to allay the symptoms and to nip the problem in the bud. French Bulldogs are people-dogs and need constant human care and attention. It is okay to leave your Frenchie alone for a few hours but long extended hours can be very stressful to them and can lead to a lot of behavioral issues. A French Bulldog should not be left alone at home for more than 4 to 8 hours even when you have left enough food, water and they have access to a place to relieve themselves. It can be utterly frustrating to come home to destruction and upsetting to see your Frenchie in such distress. Luckily, you can make the process easy for your canine friend in just a few steps. Interactive Puzzles and Toys Puzzle toys are a great way of keeping your French Bulldog entertained for long and give them the much needed mental stimulation. Puzzle toys can mitigate separation anxiety and boredom in dogs. Puzzle toys do not require a lot of movement and can still provide mental stimulation for pets especially the seniors with mobility issues. Interactive toys can help to give your Frenchie a problem and a task to figure out and helps them keep themselves engaged and happy during the time you are away. Establish a Safety Cue A safety cue can be an action or word that you can use every time you leave the house that tells your Frenchie that you will be back. Your Frenchie will start associating these cues with your short absences. If you have to be away for a few hours and your dog knows that you are coming back then they will not become anxious. Therefore, it is important to associate these safety cues with your practiced departures and shorter absences. A safety cue could be a radio, TV , a dog toy one that does not have a dangerous filling and cannot be ripped. You can use these cues during practice sessions. However, remember not to use these cues for a period of time that is longer than they can endure or the value of safety cue will be lost. If your French bulldog engages in destructive chewing while you are gone then giving them a chewing object as a safety cue will be a good idea. Just like other pets, French bulldogs do need stimulation through different kinds of activities to give them added joy and to enrich their lives. Before you leave the house, you can take your French bulldog for a short walk or play a game of fetch indoors. French bulldogs can easily overheat so you need to watch out for excessive panting. By tiring them out you may find that your Frenchie may end up sleeping for long periods when you leave them. Lack of physical and mental stimulation can leave your French bulldog wanting to do something. Idle paws will always lead to unwanted behavior. Investing time in your dog through physical and mental exercise is the only way to help them expend their energy, build confidence, ward off boredom, and stay at home alone. Training Preparation is the key to leaving your French Bulldog alone at home. You can start the training by giving them some time alone. If your Frenchie follows you around everywhere then first ask them to stay in one place while you leave for a short time. If your dog can tolerate this then try leaving the house for some time and then come back. If you are about to leave the house and you notice your Frenchie panicking, try to ignore it so that they get used to it. Repeat this every day. When you arrive home also refrain from giving a warm welcome immediately at the door. This behavior will communicate to your dog that coming home is normal and not a special event. Do not give your French bulldog treats every time you walk in the house. Your dog should learn that there are moments during the day when they could be left alone. Interactive Pet Cameras If your canine companion becomes stressed when left alone you can get a two-way communicator and treat dispenser with cameras which can let you see your pooch wherever you are and also allow you to interact with them. You can even dispense treats to your Frenchie, which can help take away some of the emotional pain they feel when they are home alone. These smart two-way communication devices help you keep a tab on your furry friends with just a push of a button on your smartphones. A dog sitter can keep your French bulldog company while you are away at work. They can take your French bulldog out for a small walk and even give day training. Your Frenchie may not be anxious and frustrated out of malice for you. They are worried about their survival without you being there to protect them. Remember when you are bringing a Frenchie home you are committing to a long-term relationship. Make sure you have enough time to dedicate to your four-legged new family member. Whether you have a busy life, work fulltime, or part-time, there are many creative ways to ensure the needs of your Frenchie are met. Providing an enriching environment and some positive reinforcement can make your Frenchie learn to be by himself and enhance their quality of life. Our Frenchies give us unbelievable attention and we owe them ours in return! Post Views: 1, French Bulldog Puppies Two hours is the limit a day. Having to stay home alone is unfamiliar to them. Peeing more and getting separation anxiety are common symptoms. Adult French Bulldogs Is capable of being left alone approximately 4 to 6 hours each day. They are accustomed to being left at home alone. Depending on the situation. Is your elderly French Bulldog suffering from health problems? Is it necessary for them to urinate more often, for example? How long can I leave my french Bulldog alone? It is difficult to know how your dog is doing when you leave. They will experience stress, anxiety, and barking problems. Decide The Location For our dog. Factors To Take Into Consideration The size of their bladder and their control Duration of your absence There is a yard available Situations weather-wise Destructive practices, whether or not there are any A crate can provide both security and comfort for a French Bulldog. Your Frenchie must have access to water and a comfortable bed in their crate when left alone at home. French Bulldogs tend to sleep most of the time when you are not around, making it more suitable for less active pets. If you have to leave your French Bulldog alone for an extended period, make sure you make it up to them when you return. Your home is also protected from doggie damage if you use crates. Keeping them comfortable may require bladder training. You are protecting your French Bulldog from the elements and potential predators and reducing their chances of escaping by keeping them indoors and confined to a single room. Meanwhile, it will be necessary for your French Bulldog to have a good bladder control litter box to prevent accidents all over the room or house. Dogs are happiest when left home alone in the backyard, where they can roam freely, go to the toilet without fear, and get plenty of fresh air. The downside is bad weather, fleas, ticks, and predators, in addition to the possibility of escaping. Make sure they have shelter and water and that the yard is secure. The best situation for your French Bulldog will depend on what you think is best for them. Little French Dog is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Teaching Alone Time You can start by confining your French Bulldog in the confinement area with a chew toy or another constructive activity, then quietly walk out of the room. Praise and treat them immediately upon your return. Each time, increase the length of your absence slowly. At first, even one to two minutes might seem too long for your Frenchie, but over a build, too much longer periods. Che periodically over the next three or four days on your French Bulldog as time increases. You can reward them with a treat and some low-key praise if they are quiet and calm before leaving. Keep an eye on them without making too much noise. Crying during confinement indicates you have either begun training before your French Bulldog has learned to associate their environment with good things or that you have left them alone too long. Otherwise, you will teach them that whining opens doors and earns your attention. Reduce the time they spend in confinement to what they can handle and gradually increase it. It can be disastrous to leave your French Bulldog alone in their area with nothing to do. Instead, you should provide constructive activities whenever they are in their containment area. They will learn to be happy on their own by doing this. A food-stuffed chew toy is a perfect activity to keep a young Frenchie interested in chewing and being distracted. It is perfectly fine to use toys like Kongs since the food inside the toy reinforces the chewing behavior. Radios and TVs are also great ways to provide companionship for French Bulldogs left alone. This can obfuscate distressing noises such as honking cars or garbage trucks. Allow your dog to spend more time alone each day. You should assess how long you can leave them alone before they need to go toilet by taking note of toilet habits. Dogs often feel more comfortable in a small space. When you leave, crates and single rooms can keep your French Bulldog safe while you are gone. Make sure to place the crate in a familiar, comfortable place where the dog will not be exposed to the sun and be warm. Only create your French Bulldog if they are used to it. Make sure you remove all items you do not want to be broken or chewed on if they get a little out of control. Protect Your Most Your Frenchie Family Member You need a system in place so that French Bulldog is safe when you are not at ho Keep any dangerous items out of reach of your Frenchie and carefully dog-proof your home. In case of an emergency or if you cannot reach home immediately, you should have a backup plan. Doggie Daycare If you do not like creating your French Bulldog for long hours or leaving them alone at home while you work all day, then maybe doggie daycare is an idea. It offers several benefits to make life easier and a safe and stimulating environment for you, Frenchie. Relieve separation anxiety It is possible for a pet to become bored or suffer from separation anxiety when you leave them for hours at a time. Consequently, you may find chewed-up shoes or pillows when you come home from work. Separation anxiety can be relieved, and dog daycare cancels out boredom. They become more comfortable when they meet new people and pets, which reduces stress, aggression, and skittish behavior. Your French Bulldog is safe. We must admit; that sometimes, our naughty angels are prone to jumping over the fence or escaping from their crates. While you are at work, what can you do to keep your dog safe? October 21, Can French Bulldogs be left alone? This is a question all pet owners have. However French Bulldogs are a little different. These friendly little pups really do not like being away from their owners and that is why we love them so much! French Bulldogs are a small dog breed that are loveable, playful, and loyal. The being loyal part is why they do not enjoy being left alone. This has become a problem for me since I started going back to work. Augie was very happy when the stay at home order was in place and I was working from home. Now that I have gone back to the office I am trying to get Augie used to some at home time. I once heard someone say that Frenchies are velcro dogs. It is funny I never really thought about it until I heard it used and then I thought, Yeah ok I think that fits! Augie tends to follow me around the house, everywhere I go, so does he. Frenchies are ok to be left home for short periods of time but typically if they are spending more than a few hours at home alone they can develop separation anxiety. If your dog is experiencing any of the following symptoms then your French Bulldog may be developing separation anxiety. Of course there is no exact answer to this and each dog is different but as long as you spend some time allowing the stay at home routine to be made will give you more stretches of time that your pup can be left alone. Age needs to be considered as a factor too. Clearly a French Bulldog puppy will not be able to hold it longer than 4 hours. There is that old saying that a dog will not soil where he eats and sleeps will only last as long as your puppy can hold it. I would say the most you will ever want to leave your Frenchie is 7 hours. You should also take into account if your dog does have separation anxiety. If your French Bulldog is suffering from separation anxiety you will not want to leave your pup home for more than a few hours without returning. If this is not possible for you then you may want to look into a dog sitter coming in to check on your four legged child, or doggie daycare, or if it is severe enough it may be worth having a conversation with your vet, as some medication may help calm your pup. Generally speaking you can train your Frenchie to be happy to spend some alone time at home without you. There are things that you can do to make this easier. First things first make sure that your dog knows that this is their home. This is usually done by making sure they are comfortable. This usually starts with their beds and crates. For our pooch we need to make sure the bed we choose chew proof. When Augie gets nervous he needs he chews or more like gnaws on things and his bed seems to be a good place to start. It can be soothing for dogs to gnaw on things but that can become expensive. You also may want to take a look at the style of the bed and try to get one that makes them feel secure. One that kinda cocons them inside the bed. Since French Bulldogs are so small they like the secure feeling they get from having the bed fit right around them. Lots of dogs enjoy their crates and their crates make them feel safe. This is not something we need to use a lot as Augi has come to be comfortable at home most of the time. Like with any type of crate training it is best to leave the crate out and open when you are home. You will also want to have the crate be in the room that is most used by the family. Once your frenchie has become comfortable with their crate you can feel free to move it to where you want to keep it in the house. Not all dogs or dog owners enjoy crates or crating their pup so this may not be for you but if you have an anxious Frechie you may want to look into this option as it can be a good safe option for you and your Bulldog. Toys can also give a calming effect for dogs when left home alone. Some dogs will find that they really enjoy stuffed toys either as their special companies or as something to chew and rip apart. For us we have a variety of toys for Augie to choose from. Augies toy box is always near his bed and allows for him to take any toy that he feels like playing with. Sometimes when I get back home from being out he has taken everything out and they are all over the house. Along with toys we always fill up a treat toy. Ones that takes some effort to get the treat out of. Having a treat toy can also give them something to chew on keeping their anxiety low as you leave and can sometimes tire them out. There are lots of great treat toys that can be purchased. I found these puzzle toys that hold treats for dogs and they are great. Once they master those ticks we move onto some more difficult ones but we never think to train our French Bulldogs to be left home alone. Here are some ways that you can help your puppy to be ready to stay home alone. Teach them to be alone even if you are home. Put you pup or yourself into a different room for a period of time. You can also use the crate at this time and get your pup to use their crate. Make sure to put a toy or treat with them so that they consider this time pleasant. Try not to make a big deal out of hellos and goodbyes. If you keep them as low key as you can then your Frenchie will not think that it is a big deal when you come and go. Make sure to give your dog plenty of exercise before you leave. A tired dog is more likely to sleep while you are gone. This means they will be less destructive if they are sleeping. Give your dog a treat reward before you go and also when you return. This will help your French Bulldog associate you leaving with a good thing. Make sure you do not reward bad behavior. No matter how guilty you feel about leaving make sure that if your pup is naughty while you are gone do not reward or feel bad. Make sure that your dog knows that his behavior was not ok. Yes if properly trained your French Bulldog can be left alone for periods of time. Frenchies do tend to have more separation anxiety then most dogs but with some patience and training your dogs time away from you will become more bearable. This is going to cause lots of dogs to have separation anxiety and some extra training with short times being left home alone or some alone time within the house to keep those training fresh in your Frenchies mind. As amazing lovable, intelligent, and affectionate companion French Bulldogs could be you should think about whether or not a French Bulldog is a good fit for you and your family. Want more info about French Bulldogs — check this out Share on facebook. Conclusion How long can a French Bulldog be left alone? While you can safely leave your French Bulldog home alone sometimes, it is not recommended to do so for more than four to six hours. This is because Frenchies are very loyal, very clingy dogs. If they have not gotten used to being alone, then sudden time by themselves can lead to them developing separation anxiety. Especially if you have adopted your Frenchie during the COVID pandemic, they may not be used to you being out of the house for long periods of time. In order to avoid issues with your dog developing anxiety, you should do your best not to leave them alone for too long. What if I need to leave my Frenchie alone for longer than hours? If you absolutely must leave your French Bulldog home alone for more than four to six hours, it is possible to do so safely. However, you should make every effort to train your pup to find alone time to be a relaxing experience rather than a stressful one. There are a couple of ways you can do this, but one of the easiest ways is to crate train your Frenchie. If you crate train, your Frenchie will be able to happily snooze the day away inside their crate while you are off doing whatever it is you need to do. Is crate training cruel? No, crate training is absolutely not cruel! Many people are hesitant to crate train their dogs because they believe that keeping your dog locked up is a bad thing. This is somewhat true—if you were keeping your dog locked in their crate all day every single day, then that might be a problem! However, crate training done right means that your dog will find their crate a comfort, and may even want to spend time in the crate of their own accord. Dogs like small spaces that they can consider their den, so your Frenchie will be sure to like a cozy, comfy crate space that they can retreat to when you are not home. How can I crate train my French Bulldog? Crate training your Frenchie will be a process, and it is important to do so properly. The first step to properly crate training a dog is selecting the right crate. You should make sure that the crate is large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in. Any smaller, and your dog will be too cramped; any larger, and the crate will feel too roomy. Once you have a properly sized crate, you can make it comfy for your dog by placing objects such as a cushy dog bed or blanket inside. Put a toy that your Frenchie loves inside. Then, you can start on getting your pup slowly acclimated to the crate. Make sure that your dog will associate their crate with good things: treats and relaxation. You can leave the crate open even when you are home, so that if your dog wants to go there to relax anytime they want, they will be able to. How do I know if my Frenchie has separation anxiety? If you leave your French Bulldog at home by themselves for too long or too suddenly, it is possible that your pup can develop separation anxiety. This is when they become very anxious and scared when you are not at home, and they do not know how to cope with being alone. Some signs that might indicate separation anxiety are: Excessive barking , howling or whining Pacing Potty accidents Scratching at the walls and doors It is important, however, to pay attention to when your dog is engaging in these behaviors. If they are only doing so when you are gone or getting ready to leave, then chances are that the behaviors have to do with separation anxiety. If they are regularly occurring when you are home, however, then something else may be wrong, or your Frenchie may suffer from generalized anxiety. What do I do if my Frenchie has separation anxiety? If your Frenchie happens to develop separation anxiety, there are a few things you can do to attempt to reduce the anxiety. These include crate training your pup, which we have already mentioned, or you can work to desensitize your Frenchie to being home alone. Desensitization will involve lots of patience, time, and training, but the end results will be worth it. How can I desensitize my French Bulldog to being home alone? Desensitization involves getting your dog used to the things that trigger their separation anxiety, until they are able to be left alone without being triggered into an anxious episode. This will take a lot of time and patience. To begin, you will want to get your dog used to being left alone for short periods of time, and then slowly increase the length. For example, you can give your Frenchie a puzzle toy or another treat, such as a KONG filled with peanut butter or treat paste, that will require concentration. Then, leave them alone for just enough time to finish the treat before coming back. This will begin to develop a positive association with being left alone. Continue to do this while slowly increasing the time that you are gone. Use this command, then leave the room. After a few minutes of them being alone in the room without any bad behavior, you can return to the room and reward them. Make sure that you only use positive reinforcement—never punish your Frenchie for anxious behavior. This is likely to increase the bad behavior and develop poor associations with you leaving. Lastly, you can also desensitize your Frenchie to the things that trigger their anxious episodes. For example, if your Frenchie begins to freak out every time you put your shoes on and get ready to leave the house, you can begin to teach them that putting your shoes on does not always mean that you are going to leave. Then, reward your Frenchie when they are calm. Repeat this process until your pup is comfortable with you leaving. Conclusion So, how long can a French Bulldog be left alone? In general, the answer is no longer than about four to six hours. However, a well-trained adult dog can generally hold their bladder for six to eight hours, so it is possible for you to leave your Frenchie for longer. You can crate train your Frenchie so that they have a safe space to retreat to when they are home alone. This way, they will be less likely to engage in destructive behavior and develop separation anxiety. Believe me when I tell you that Frenchies appear to be a breed that suffer with the symptoms far more than other dog breeds. Put simply; French Bulldogs do not do well alone. In this guide to French Bulldog separation anxiety I am going to give you a blueprint to follow to make things better for you and your puppy. Take a look at this video of the Furbo we made , and reasons why you should get this to help with Frenchie separation anxiety. Although it can be very distressing behavior to deal with, there are a few steps you can take to ease your Frenchie out of this destructive pattern and to help them deal with their separation anxiety and symptoms. French Bulldogs are known to be an especially clingy breed and are more susceptible to separation anxiety as a result. They have been bred to be human companions so this is not the type of dog that can be left alone at home for long periods of time. Frenchies thrive from having plenty of quality time with you and will be absolutely miserable if you work long hours and leave them alone for the majority of the day. Do French Bulldogs do well alone? If you find that your Frenchie has a meltdown every time you leave the house, there are a number of methods you can utilize to coax them away from this frame of mind. Patience and perseverance during this time is critical. You might even find that your puppy or adult dog starts to eat their own poop. Symptom 2: Barking and howling Frenchies are not loud dogs to begin with, so if they start barking and howling every time you leave the house, this is another strong indicator that they are struggling with separation anxiety. You might have seen photos of a younger Frenchie puppy on our blog. We sometimes look after her to help her owners out, and unlike Claude who can deal with being left home alone for a couple of hours, she starts to bark like crazy as soon as we leave the house for a few moments. Symptom 3: Pacing, heavy panting and drooling You may notice this type of frantic body language whenever you start getting ready to leave. This may also be accompanied by shivering and shaking. French Bulldog puppy separation anxiety starts as soon as they learn the signals for you leaving the house. I will come on to how to reduce these triggers further down the page. Symptom 4: Chewing, digging, and generally destructive behavior This is usually their attempt to try and get out of the house. Typically, you will find that their destruction will be aimed at sofas, blinds, drapes, doorways, and walls — anything that they may perceive as a way out. If you have this problem with your Frenchie, read this guide on how to stop them from chewing your house up. Find out how we dog-proofed our own garden area to stop Claude from digging up our lawn. Symptom 5: Escape attempts When distressed, your Frenchie may go to extreme attempts to escape the house in order to find you. This can even result in them hurting themselves. They would get back to see their young puppy bashing his head and teeth against the crate bars, injuring himself in the process. How to stop French Bulldog separation anxiety If you have a possessive and clingy French Bulldog on your hands, there are a number of techniques you can try to calm your Frenchie down. The key in all of this is endurance. Regardless of your approach, you will not see results straight away, but the longer you persist, the more you should see a difference. All of these methods will help you to deal with a dog who cannot be left alone for either long or short periods of time. Although it may not always be realistic, practicing a calm routine in the morning before you leave, and a calm routine when you get back should help your Frenchie with their anxiety. How to train your French Bulldog to be left alone: try to be calm when you leave your Frenchie alone at home for better results. It might make your puppy a lot happier! Avoid giving your Frenchie too much attention or making too much of a fuss. This is especially important when you get home. If you find your Frenchie excitedly greeting you back, you can certainly return their greeting with a quick pet, but it would be best to avoid too much eye contact or attention until they have calmed down. With a few simple changes to your own behavior, you should be able to leave your French Bulldog alone — but it will take time to get this discipline down to a tee. This includes things such as: Putting on a jacket and shoes. Picking up your house keys, purse, or wallet. Making a big deal out of saying goodbye to them. What you might try to do instead is get your stuff ready before you start to leave. I know one owner who will put their jacket on and pick up their keys before the eat dinner so they can be more subtle about the act of leaving the house. It might be that you have a set routine in the morning. If you do, try shaking things up a little bit. You might try picking up your keys and putting on your coat as though you were about to leave, but then doing something completely different, like making a meal or watching TV. If your Frenchie starts to become anxious as you pick up your keys and put on your jacket, perhaps you can start to use these before you take them out for a walk or playing a favorite game. Give them a comfortable and safe place I mentioned the crate method earlier. This can work with some puppies, as you might have one who is perfectly happy to sit in his crate when left at home alone with no negative consequences. Other dogs might hate being crated. The key here is to see if you can find a room or area where your Frenchie feels more at ease when you leave the house. It could even mean placing them in a specific room with the door closed, with the TV or radio on and plenty of toys to play with more on this in a moment. Try short absences at first Another method to help you if you absolutely must leave your French Bulldog at home alone all day is to try short absences first. Come back through the house door behaving completely normally before your Frenchie can start to get up to mischief without making a fuss. By trying this exercise you can start to train your Frenchie to be left alone. Important: I do not recommend getting a Frenchie if you are going to be leaving them at home alone all day or for long hours at a time. However, I appreciate there may be times when this is unavoidable. Positive reinforcement Part of the reason why Frenchies become so distressed when you leave the house is because they know that they are going to be separated from you and your affection. Some people say that your dog might even think you are never coming back! To combat the idea that your leaving the house is a negative thing, you can reserve a certain treat or a favorite toy for when you leave. It will take them a good twenty minutes to finish with this toy, and by the time they are done, it should hopefully provide enough of a distraction to keep their mind off your absence. Keep your puppy distracted and entertained As an extension of an earlier suggestion, another thing you can try is to leave your Frenchie in a room full of toys and distractions to keep them occupied throughout the day. Make sure the room is well lit and fill it with engaging toys that you know your Frenchie will love. Can French Bulldogs be left alone all day? If you can, try to reserve these toys for times when you are out of the house. This way they will have more things to positively associate with you leaving. Another tip that may help, especially if you find that your Frenchie is comforted by sound, is to leave the TV or radio on during the day. Sometimes the silence can be enough to agitate your Frenchie, so you may find this on its own can make a massive difference. By doing so, you might find that they end up sleeping for large periods when left alone. By keeping your puppy or adult dog entertained and exercised when you are at home, it will make leaving them alone a lot easier, as hopefully they will use this time to get some well-deserved rest and recuperation until you return. Handy Hint: Ever wondered how long Frenchies sleep for? Read this article about French Bulldog sleeping patterns including a recommend sleeping schedule. Doggy daycare and walking services Last summer my wife and I had a period of time where we both had to be at work from 9 until 5 each day — usually my wife is at home with Claude. To cope with this better we decided to use a dog sitting and walking service. However, it can cost quite a lot if you have to place them into full-time day care. What we did most of the time was give our trusted dog walker the keys to our house. She would come once in the morning and once in the afternoon to take Claude out for an hour to break up his day and how long he was without human companionship. You might also consider taking your Frenchie to a reliable doggy daycare service. Use a remote camera to see and talk to your puppy Another suggestion is to get one of those remote cameras that you can buy on Amazon. This can give you huge peace of mind. It has 2-way audio so you can hear them, and they can hear you plus can be hooked up to your Alexa device. The reviews on Amazon for this dog camera are excellent, and could be a great solution if you are going to be leaving your French Bulldog at home alone for longer periods of time. Professional help or medication If you find that nothing seems to be working, or if the behavior is already quite bad, you may want to enlist the help of a professional trainer and your veterinarian. As separation anxiety can be the result of medical issues, it would be worth having your Frenchie checked over to rule this out as a possibility. Your veterinarian may also choose to prescribe medication for your Frenchie if the anxiety is particularly bad. Medication should only be viewed as a short-term fix for anxiety problems. Dog tranquilizers prescribed by your vet should only be viewed as a short-term and drastic solution if you really need to alter the behavior of your Frenchie. Related questions I hope this has given you some guidance on how you can better deal with the problem of separation anxiety. Much of this behavior will exhibit itself in puppies and dogs who are left home alone, so here are some more pointers to help you decide if a Frenchie is the right dog for you. What age can you leave your French Bulldog alone? By this point he was starting to get more adult and was passing the destructive puppy-like behavior that would be most commonly associated with being left alone. It might be different with your own puppy, but the bottom line is, you should not leave a French Bulldog puppy alone at the age of 6 months. At this age they cannot hold their bladder for more than 6 hours. There have been some very rare occasions where we have had to leave the home for 7 hours, leaving Claude by himself home alone it was a family emergency. He would ignore us and give us the cold shoulder — almost like he was punishing us for leaving him alone all day. The bottom line is this; French Bulldogs are a very social breed and have been bred to be companion dogs. I would say no, French Bulldogs do not do well alone. What many people will do is have two Frenchies so they can keep each other company. I go into more detail on this in my article about French Bulldogs being better in pairs. A pair of Frenchies will hep to stimulate each other and will reduce their stress when you leave them alone. The benefits of having two Frenchies include: As social animals they can keep each other company. Pairs can act as role models for each other, particularly a puppy with an older dog. Two Frenchies can help to exercise and play with each other when you leave the home. You can leave them home alone longer if they are two of them. Which dogs have separation anxiety? Other dogs that suffer with this problem are said to be the following breeds source: Furbo. French Bulldogs are no doubt one of the sweetest breeds of dogs and make wonderful companions and pets. They can be very charming, are highly adaptable to new situations, and will never pass up the opportunity to sit quietly in your lap for hours on end. Frenchies can be more than a bit stubborn, however, and do tend to exhibit more separation anxiety than other dog breeds. For that reason, most experts recommend not leaving a French bulldog alone for more than 5 or 6 hours at a time. French bulldogs are extremely sociable animals, to be sure. For many people that would be a problem. If you travel a lot for work it could also be a problem as French bulldogs have quite a bit of separation anxiety. Frenchies will need you almost as much as a child and will take up nearly as much of your time. French bulldogs are one of the most loving and loyal dog breeds there are and make wonderful pets. Just realize going in that they are going to need a lot of attention, care, and love. You should never leave your French bulldog outside, especially during extreme weather. That includes both very hot and very cold days where their small bodies could easily overheat or freeze. French bulldogs are most definitely inside dogs and not outside dogs. Yes, of course, you can play with them outside and go for walks and things like that, but the majority of the time they should be inside. Your average Frenchie loves to romp around in the snow for a little while or splash around in a puddle. But again, just to reiterate, this is not the type of dog where you get a dog house outside and they live out there full-time. Leaving them inside when you leave, for that reason, is your best option. The answer to this question all depends on how your French bulldog was trained from a pup. For some, being unsupervised is not a problem at all while, for others, it might lead to disaster. In those cases a crate or pen would be recommended, but only if they have been trained beforehand. The thing is, one of the best qualities of a French bulldog is that they can adapt to practically any living situation. From a large farmhouse to a small apartment in the city and any size space in between, they usually have no problem at all adapting. One thing that they do tend to have, however, is separation anxiety, and for that reason, a crate or pen can sometimes be very good to have. What that means is that you will need to crate train them right from the beginning when they are puppies. The good news is that, because of the type of dog they are, most French bulldogs that are crate or pen trained well use them as a place of comfort when you leave. Some Tips on Using a Crate or Pen Train Your Frenchie The best thing for your Frenchie when you leave is to know that their pen or crate is a comfortable and safe place. For that reason, never use it to punish them for misbehaving. If their energy is because they are anxious and suffering from separation anxiety, there are products you can give them to help them stay calmer. More on those in just a sec. But, the truth is, most dogs when left alone will look for something to do, and usually something to chew on. For that reason, they should always have plenty of chew toys around when you leave. You should probably buy new ones regularly because Frenchies are whip-smart and get bored easily. Also, leaving them treats is a great idea but making it a little difficult to get the treat is even better. Below are some suggestions for toys, treat-dispensing products, and those anxiety products we talked about above.

Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. You might want to limit them to one or two rooms in the house at first so they can get used to everything slowly in their own time. Calming products: Plug-in diffusers that release calming pheromones can be good for the first few weeks. They can help your puppy feel more relaxed around the home — especially during those first nights! Set boundaries: Make sure your boundaries are clear from the beginning and stick to them. You can begin by socialising your puppy at home and by carrying them out and about with you. If they need to sleep and rest, give them the space to do so and encourage them to play on their own sometimes to help prevent separation problems later in life. Consider training classes: It can be a good idea to go along to training classes with your puppy, so you can let them have positive experiences with vaccinated dogs and people in a safe environment. Make sure you choose classes run by trainers who are certified or accredited and use reward based methods. For more tips, read our guide on the first day with your puppy. It's also a good idea to get your new puppy insured as soon as possible. This will help make sure they have all the cover they need in future if they fall ill or become injured. Feeding your puppy With so much choice available, it can be tricky to know what to feed your new puppy. Puppies need a particular level of nutrients compared to adults to help them grow, so finding an appropriate puppy food is essential. Speak to your vet for advice on the best puppy food for your dog to make sure you pick one that will suit their needs as they grow. You can still keep your puppy happy and entertained in lots of other ways, for example playing games or trying a puzzle feeder. Before you start exercising your puppy in the big wide world, you must make sure that their vaccinations are fully up to date, in order to keep them safe and healthy. Training your puppy Your new puppy will likely need to learn all of their skills from scratch, which means lots of basic training! Start the basics at home, such as teaching your dog recall and sit. It can help the two of you bond, and your pup will see training as a fun thing to do. One thing that most people think about when bringing their puppy home, is toilet training! Always use positive, reward-based training and never punish your puppy for toileting in the wrong place. Toilet training might take time — some pups can learn toilet training in a few months, while others might take a lot longer. If you are about to welcome a new puppy into your family, congratulations! We have created the ultimate puppy checklist detailing all the supplies that you will need to keep your new puppy happy and comfortable. What do I need for a new puppy checklist? Check out the essentials that you need to provide before bringing your puppy home: 1. Dog bed Whilst some dog owners like to let their dogs sleep in their beds , some prefer to designate a sleeping area. If you are like the latter, start shopping for a soft bed that will make your new puppy comfortable. Before your puppy is potty-trained, it is a good idea to let him sleep in the dog crate. The extra space is meant for the training pads. If your puppy is already potty-trained, consider what size he will grow into for his breed. The bed should be big enough for him even when he is fully grown. Crate If you plan to crate-train your puppy, have one ready before he arrives. Using a crate is a quick and effective way to toilet-train your puppy. He will learn to control his bowels and understand that he needs to go somewhere else to potty. Your pup will also have a safe zone where he can enjoy privacy and comfort when he needs it. Another use for the crate is to keep your dog safely confined whilst you are away. How long can a puppy be left alone during the day? Puppies can only be left alone for 2 hours each day. They need constant supervision as they may feel jittery in their new home. Moreover, they are prone to potty accidents. Where should a puppy sleep the first night? Let your puppy sleep in a dog crate beside your bed. Living in a new home makes him feel lonely, and sleeping near you will make him feel secure. To make him more comfortable, give him a cloth or stuffed toy with the scent of his littermates on it. Tip: You can reduce distractions and make the crate a more private and secure haven for your puppy. Simply cover 3 sides of the crate with a piece of cloth. Since you have a growing furry buddy, a lightweight adjustable collar is recommended. Choose a collar with clips that are quick and easy to use. You would not want to distress your pup with complicated contraptions. It should be as light and comfortable as possible so your pup will get used to it quickly. Lead The average lead length is 4—6 feet. Choose the lightest one that you can find so that it is not stressful for your pup to work with. Harness Next up on our new puppy checklist is a dog harness. If your new puppy is a ball of energy and often lunges against the leash, then opt for a harness. The same is the case if your pup is very small and has a delicate neck. The harness is also recommended if you have a Pug or a Boston Terrier , which are dog breeds that prone to throat problems. As your puppy is still growing, pick an adjustable harness, so it would be easy to adjust. To help you weigh your options better, learn about these 3 considerations in choosing a harness. ID Tag When bringing a puppy home, he will need an ID tag in case he accidentally escapes or gets lost. It should have your number, address, essential medication requirement, or allergies if any. Traditional dog ID tags get lost easily, as the ring often gets broken over time. You can get an alternative ID tag, which is flat and the information is engraved on a plate. This type of ID tag is much more durable. It might cause a little more initially; however, over the long run, it is more cost-effective and more secure. Food and Water Bowls The most recommended bowl is the stainless steel type because it is easy to clean. It is also the most durable compared to the plastic or ceramic types. You can also buy stainless bowls with rubber coating to prevent slipping. If you have a very energetic or clumsy puppy, a heavy ceramic or weighted bowl is a more suitable choice. If your pup has long ears, pick a bowl with a smaller opening and a wide base. This type of bowl will keep his ears from dipping into the bowl whilst he eats. Tip: If you live in a very cold area or if your dog has a sensitive stomach or certain medical conditions, a heated water bowl might be a good choice. Puppy Food Usually, breeders will give you a small amount of food that they have been feeding your puppy. As such, get the same type of puppy food so that your canine buddy will not have stomach issues. If you wish to transition your pup to a new type of puppy food or dog food, you need to do so gradually. Never abruptly feed your puppy something that he has never eaten before. Sudden changes in his diet will likely cause diarrhoea or other gastrointestinal issues. You can, for example, begin the transition by mixing the usual food that he eats with the new one. Do this for the first 5—6 days. Then, move to , , and finally .On the seventh day, he should be eating the new food without mixing the old one. Treats Treats are must-haves during puppy training classes. Get treats that are appropriate for puppies. Giving treats as a reward not only provides positive reinforcement but also a bonding opportunity for you and your new dog. Even if they are not in training, dogs love to get treats for no special reason. Just be careful not to overdo the treat giving. Always follow the recommended amount on the feeding guide. Moreover, make sure your friends and family are also in the know about feeding treats to your new puppy in moderation. Baby Gate and Exercise Pen Included in our new puppy checklist are baby gates. This is one of the ways to puppy-proof your home. Baby gates help keep your new pup from entering restricted areas. Use one that is high enough to prevent your pet from jumping or climbing over it. An exercise pen or X-pen is a small enclosure that is like a playpen but for canine pets. The X-pen allows the dog to be in a specific area and still be a part of the family activities. It also helps train your dog to be comfortable being alone within a certain space. Dog Toys Puppies love to play as they are bursting with energy. Toys, like a ball, rope, or chew toy, also keep your dog busy and out of trouble. Chew toys will help prevent your puppy from chewing everything in the house. Make sure to choose toys that are specifically made for dogs as they are more durable. What grooming supplies should be on your list? Vet bedding fleece on a roll is ideal puppy bedding. You can line both his bed and his car crate with this. Buy several pieces so that you can pop one in the washing machine when it gets dirty or if he has an accident. There are lots of lovely beds you can get to go around the house, but in those first days veterinary bedding is an essential alternative to keep his crate cosy and clean. Puppy Toys For Labradors Puppy toys need to be sturdy. Many puppies destroy soft toys quite quickly though they are so adorable, you may not be able to resist buying one or two. Kongs and rope toys are very tough and seem to survive the onslaught of puppy teeth. A Radio If you intend your puppy to sleep alone in the kitchen from the first night, you may find it helpful to leave a radio next to his crate. Just a simple, cheap Portable Radio with the volume turned down low can serve the same role as some human company. It just helps him feel less along during those first few nights when he may be feeling very homesick. Puppy Harness There is no rush for this, but once your puppy is too heavy to carry, and going out and about on the ground, he needs some kind of safety restraint. These days I usually recommend a harness as they avoid pulling on the puppies neck. The kind where the lead attaches at the front and on the back are ideal. You can find an expert review of the big brands of harnesses, from a professional trainer here. When he is older and has learned to walk next to you, you can buy him a collar. To let your puppy know when he has done something you like. It is a really useful tool to help you teach your puppy to be quiet, and to learn simple skills. It will make training your puppy much quicker, easier and a lot more fun. Getting a recall to whistle established at an early age gets your puppy training off to a great start. I recommend the Acme Dog Whistle. There is plenty of information on the use and choice of dog whistles in this article: Should you buy a dog whistle .It will help to get you off to a great start with your new puppy. The crate which we suggest is foldable which makes it extra convenient. Dogs are naturally den animals and a crate provides them with a place where they can relax and feel safe. Crate training and choosing the right size Crate training makes toilet training a million times easier, and keeps your puppy safe at night whilst the family is asleep. The best puppy crate is one which is big enough for them to stand up, stretch out, turn around and lie down in. But no bigger. Or by buying an adult sized crate which comes with a divider, to allow you to provide the correct amount of space for your growing puppy. Bedding You will of course also need bedding to line the crate. This fake fleecy fur bedding comes in a roll and you can either buy a piece to fit your crate or cut to it to size yourself. For puppies, you should avoid any dog bed with a fancy liner and a stuffed or padded interior. Your pup will probably rip it open and eat the contents in no time. Check out our indestructible dog bed article for some great inspiration. Food is obviously the most important item on your new puppy supplies list. Puppy Food To start with, your new pup will need to eat three to four times a day. Having a supply of the new brand ready will allow you to make this changeover from the old food to the new, before the old runs out. The best puppy food is one which is low in carbohydrates and high in protein. Puppy Bowls Next up on the new puppy supplies list are their food and water bowls. Most of them are dishwasher safe, and cheap to buy. You can have a couple in the cupboard, making it easy to keep the food bowl shiny and clean between meals. The downside of the usual stainless steel food bowls is that they can tip over, not to mention the horrendous noise as the puppy chases them around the kitchen! To avoid these disadvantages, find a non-slip version with a steadier bottom. Those designed for use by dogs and puppies. Ceramic water bowls help to keep the water cool as well. The best part of getting a new pup is the fun you have playing with them — and for this puppy toys are real Labrador essentials! Between 12 to 24 weeks your pup will be losing their baby teeth and their new teeth will be emerging. This is a very uncomfortable time for you pup — the reason why they chew everything in their path. You can protect your shoes, furniture , and even cables, by making sure that they have plenty of toys to chew instead. Puppy toys are fun to buy, and there are a lot of choices out there. We have a couple of real firm favorites when it comes to puppy toys. Puppy kongs are brilliant. Kongs bounce around and can be played with if your pup feels like it, or picked up and carried around. Just make sure that the rope is thick and not easily shredded. Be sure to avoid small toys, or those with small parts that can be chewed off, that your pup can swallow. They can cause choking or blockages in their bellies. Besides being too small, the toys in your puppy supplies should also not be too big. They should be able to get their mouths around their toys easily. Having to stretch to chew on or pick up toys or bones that are too big can injure their growing jaws. Collar and leash You should introduce your pup to their dog collar and leash as soon as possible. They can get used to wearing their collar in the house from a young age, before going outside for walks. It has a convenient quick release buckle as well as an ID tag. Dog harnesses, instead of collars, are becoming increasingly popular among dog lovers. Always use a harness for a dog that has problems breathing. It also has a thick padded handle to protect your hands. A pup might still squirm and try to get away. Then you can start brushing again. Letting your pup inspect and sniff the brush also helps them to get over any fear. This specialised pet brush has fine bent wires that gets rid of mats without hurting. Amongst the most useful Lab puppy essentials on our new puppy checklist are puppy barriers. There are a few options for creating barriers, to keep your pup safe and give them some space when they need a break. The most popular puppy barriers are actually baby gates. They make fantastic human toddler and puppy barriers — you might even use them to separate the two. They come in a few different sizes, and fit into most doorways or hallway spaces. The human members of the family can easily come and go, whilst keeping the puppy securely contained. You can start using it with your pup from a very young age. Combined with treats, they let the pup know exactly when you approve of their behavior. Their use is rapidly increasing in popularity. Using positive reinforcement training and working with a clicker will help you to both train your puppy, and to form a stronger bond and better relationship together as he grows. Almost last but not least on our new puppy checklist is puppy insurance. There have been astonishing advances in the veterinary treatments that are available for our pets today. Most things you can be treated for, your dog can be treated for too. Open heart surgery, complex hip operations, and advanced cancer treatments are all available to dogs. Read The Small Print And do read the small print before you buy, some of the cheaper policies will dump you at the end of the year if your dog gets a long term condition. I did not read the small print and this happened to me. So take care to choose a policy that keeps on renewing as long as you keep on paying. Many dog owners would recommend the final Labrador puppy accessory on our new puppy checklist as the most essential. Covering everything from the first days at home, through crate training, potty training, dealing with teething and much more. Do you have any tips for our readers? Are there other items that you wish you had bought before your Labrador puppy arrived and would add to our puppy supplies list? Why not share your thoughts in the comments section below. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Contact us Preparing for your new dog Are you getting a new puppy or dog soon? We also have a shopping list of essential dog supplies. Be sure to ask whether the practice provides out-of-hours care, or whether another clinic covers this for them. All dogs adopted … Show details 3 Get pet insurance A good pet insurance policy can help you get the right care for your dog. Insurance policies differ in what types of treatment they cover. For this, our training advice and Dog School tutorial videos should help. For puppies, check out our 5 Puppy-proof your place Young dogs can be very curious, risking harming themselves as well as your home. See the section below for specific advice. Our handy shopping list is below. To make things safe for your furry friend, lock away or throw away safely anything that could be harmful to them. Move out of reach objects that they could chew. The feeding area should ideally be separate. This makes housetraining easier. The rest area, including a cosy den, should be in a quiet place. This should be away from external doors, busy areas and the direct sight of a window. Explain to family and friends that when your dog is there, they shouldn't be disturbed. Remove toxic plants and ensure that sharp tools and harmful substances are locked safely away. What to buy for the first month with your new dog or puppy These items and supplies, from bedding to toys, should get you through the first few weeks with your new dog. For the house Comfortable, washable beds and bedding, large enough for the dog to sprawl flat out on. Food and water bowls, including spares. Food that your dog is familiar with — ask your breeder or Dogs Trust centre what the dog has been eating. Your vet can tell you more about getting your dog used to a different food, and about diet in general. Feeding enrichment toys such as food puzzles and slow feeders. House training pads for dogs. Keeping entertained Toys for keeping your dog entertained, for play and to help teething puppies. They need to be safe, as above. The size may need to change as your dog grows. Going walkies These items will help prepare you for when you can venture outside with your new furry friend. You'll need a: plain buckled collar and tag. By law, your current name and address must be on the collar or tag. Why not buy them from Dogs Trust? Our online gift shop has lots of kit for your canine pal, from collars and leads to beds, towels and cosy coats and our webshop has Dogs Trust branded items for your new pooch. Otherwise, you risk them picking up infections. Until then, there are many things you can do to safely introduce your puppy to the world around them so they don't miss out on those vital early experiences. Adult dogs also benefit from a gradual introduction to their new surroundings. So take them for some shorter walks around the same route when you first venture out with them, gradually introducing new and longer walks over time. Our checklist should take the guesswork out of preparing, so you can focus on bonding with your new friend. Time for training Now is the ideal time to book in some training for your puppy or dog. Secure your place on one of our reward-based classes today.

Is there a Dwarf German Shepherd? The two distinct types we mentioned in the introduction are defined by the length of their coat; either medium or long. Both types have a double layered coat, a softer and thicker undercoat and a coarser outer layer of guard hair. As their name suggests, the German Shepherd began in Germany. While there were different progenitor breeds, the first officially recognized dog was called Horand von Grafrath. In von Grafrath's owner started the breed as the epitome of what a working dog should be and it is from this one dog that all modern German Shepherd dogs originate. There has been some discussion over the years whether this dog may have been part wolf. The working origins of this breed are very important as the standardization was established to promote the dog's ability. This was something which was becoming lost as industry and urbanization began to reduce the need for working dogs. Thus, the German Shepherd was created to ensure these traits were maintained. While many GSDs are now kept as companion animals, they are still one of the most widely used working dogs in many different areas. Shepherding is not as common a practice as when the breed was established, but use in law enforcement , security and rescue operations is widespread. It wasn't just physical ability which made the German Shepherd breed so popular. Their incredible loyalty and desire for engagement means they are relatively easy to train. For the same reasons, they need to be well-socialized and given sufficient physical and mental stimulation. Without these practices, they can develop behavioral problems. How many types of German Shepherd are there? While the medium and longhair varieties are the only recognized length of coat for purebred German Shepherds , the color of said coat can be varied. Not all will be allowed in competition, with some color variations being considered to be faults affecting their scoring. Similarly, there are dogs which look very similar to the German Shepherd, but are not considered part of the breed. We will discuss these breeds further below. While they are usually of two colors, it is the distinctiveness of their markings which gives them this name. The saddle part refers to a patch of black fur which lays over their back, resembling the shape of a saddle on a horse. The other color of Saddle Back German Shepherds are usually either tan or red. In many dog shows and competitions, the more vibrant the color, the better the scoring. Liver color is not welcomed and may be used to deduct points in German Shepherd show dogs. They usually also have a black muzzle which covers their snout and parts of their face. Other areas such as their tail may exhibit black coloration. Solid Color German Shepherd Dog The solid color German Shepherd dog is less common than the Saddle Back, but they shouldn't have any other differentiating characteristics. Their health status and temperament should not be informed by color. It is possible to have powder blue colors in the dog's coat, but it is unlikely this will be solid. While a GSD may be accepted in competition, they will likely be marked down for both this color and liver. However, for solid colors, you tend to only get solid black or solid white German Shepherds. Solid black German Shepherds are accepted in competition. However, solid white German Shepherds are one of the few color variations which tend to be immediately disqualified. It should not be confused with albinism. Perhaps partly due to their disqualification from competition, solid white Germans Shepherds are not very common. They have a curious and striking appearance which is often confused with other dog breeds. Due to a genetic mutation, but they are a full German Shepherd and are not a mixed breed. The mutation occurred in a litter from the USA. This type of German Shepherd exhibits a white coat on the abdomen and legs, but has black or tan on other parts, giving them a sort of panda like appearance. Like other German Shepherd Dogs, they are agile, strong and ideal family pets. However, they arouse controversy over some breeders as white markings are considered a fault. The main controversy appears to be the belief that the dog is from inferior stock, but so far their health seems to be average when compared to other types of GSD. Image: perrospastoraleman. The sable pattern does not manifest in patches like the saddle back. Instead they have various multicolored hairs over their bodies which gives a variegated all-over appearance. This color tends to develop as they get older and some may be stronger than others. The color may be a combination of tan, gray, black, or gold. However, all Sable German Shepherds start off as tan and then develop darker colors as they age. The variations among Sable GSDs are wide, but they are due to a dominant gene. They are believed to be dominiant over German Shepherd colors and variations. Dog breeds similar to the German Shepherd Dog While there are different accepted and unofficial coat patterns in the German Shepherd, it can be easy to confuse them with some other breeds which closely resemble them. This common confusions are due to similar body shape and size, with similar usage as working dogs. Some may even derive from similar parts of the world, but they are all considered distinct breeds. They include: Belgian Shepherd This breed originated from Belgium, with its first breed description being recorded several years before the German Shepherd, although its breed standard was officially established after. They are excellent worker dogs, especially in herding, but are also well-known for their even temperament, playfulness and faithful personality. As with the German Shepherd, there are breed variations within the one breed. The four main types are: Malinois Tervuren Laekenois Depending on the location of the breed association, these breeds may all be considered part of the one Belgian Shepherd breed or they may be considered separate breeds themselves. Part of the confusion with the German Shepherd is the markings, with the Malinois in particular having a similar black mask on their face. Czechoslovakian Wolfhound This dog originates from the now defunct country of Czechoslovakia. It has been used as a working dog, especially as a guard dog to be used in border territories or to be used by the police. The breed comes from the crossing of the German Shepherd and the Eurasian wolf. Their inception is not necessarily the nicest one since they were bred to be used as attack dogs in special forces initiatives. Due to their wild heritage, they are keen natural hunters. This personality trait needs to be discouraged when they are young. They can be loving and protective with their families, but can show aggression with strangers. They require experienced guardians who have the time and energy to devote to extensive training and care. Dutch Shepherd This is a dog which shares origins with different breeds such as the Belgian Shepherd and German Shepherd. This is evident in its physical characteristics which present in an equally muscular body and raised ears. This breed is distinguished by its coat with the most common variety being a tabby pattern with black, chestnut or yellow coloring distributed over their body. Working and show lines of German Shepherds In addition to the length of their coat and its coloring, the German Shepherd is also sometimes categorized by its body type. This body can be more or less stylized, tending to be more or less muscular. The more muscular the dogs are considered to be working lines and the less muscular are show lines. They are not officially different types of German Shepherd dogs, but they do exhibit small differences. Focusing on working dog lines, they tend to have larger muscle mass and a more structured body. This means they are more commonly used by police or security forces. There are differing opinions on whether temperament differs between working and show breeds. While both types will require training and education, some believe working dog lines can tend to be more aggressive and better suited for security. Conversely, show dogs are thought to have a more docile temperament. Whether a working or show dog, German Shepherds are not ideal dogs for first-time owners. These dogs need a lot of attention, proper socialization and careful training. Without it, they are prone to behavioral disorders. They can be wonderful and loving companion animals, but their need for attention and structure does not suit every temperament. Not all types of German Shepherd are show dogs, but even within this category there are variations. Show dogs can be either: Conformation: purebred German Shepherds used in conformation shows are bred to have a particular physical standard. Unfortunately, these dogs have breen bred to the point that deformities and health problems have practically been encouraged. This was brought to international attention with the Crufts dog show in the UK where a winning GSD was visibly deformed, causing outcry in the public [1]. Competition: for this type of purebred German Shepherd show dog, the animal needs to carry out certain physical tasks to compete against rival dogs. The working lines of dogs are now bred all over world, there are some original working lines which are more traditional. The categories of German Shepherd working dogs are: West German working lines East German working lines Czech working lines West German working lines are believed to be the most similar to the original breed standard of purebred German Shepherds. East German working lines are noted for their emphasis on good temperament and practical workability. Czech working lines are though to be the most wolf-like of the different types of German Shepherds. Show lines have origins in Europe also, specifically in West Germany. There is no recognized Dwarf German Shepherd breed. As with humans, German Shepherds can have genetic mutations which lead to conditions such as dwarfism. Unfortunately, dwarfism in German Shepherds negatively affects their heath in a very serious way, causing many problems and even resulting in pain. They have a much lower life expectancy and are not believed to live past 5 years. For this reason, breeding of these dogs is discouraged, being considered cruel. If you want to read similar articles to Types of German Shepherd - All Breed Variations, we recommend you visit our Comparisons category. Though size varies between individuals, a standard German Shepherd weighs about 60 pounds. Whether you already own a German Shepherd pup or are looking into it, be prepared for a hefty lap dog! Continue to 7 of 16 below. They were originally bred for their striking good looks and intelligence, making for a great working dog on the police force and in the military. They were so cute that dog-lovers in other countries soon caught on and began breeding them themselves. Continue to 8 of 16 below. These dogs are very protective of their homes and family and make excellent guard dogs. Continue to 9 of 16 below. They need stimulation, even if they are a family pet and not a trained deputy. This can be in the form of playful games, puzzle toys, tricks , and obedience training. Otherwise, German Shepherds may show off some unpleasant behavior, like chewing. Continue to 10 of 16 below. Continue to 11 of 16 below. Continue to 12 of 16 below. They perk up as they grow older, making them look extra tall and important. Continue to 13 of 16 below. Beautiful all black and all white German Shepherds are out there, too. Continue to 14 of 16 below. Continue to 15 of 16 below. This breed is inherently athletic and courageous—nothing can stop them, not even water. Continue to 16 of 16 below. Aug 17, Share German Shepherds have working lines and show lines, totaling five different types. The breed has changed drastically throughout its ancestry in various countries. Max von Stephanitz was the creator of the German Shepherd, aiming for a perfect personality, workability, and stunning appearance. His goal was to create a masterpiece: the ideal working dog reigning supreme above the rest. We like to think that his expectations for the breed have been fulfilled, as German Shepherds are one of the most beloved breeds across the globe as both service dogs and companions. Learning about their unique history will make you appreciate the breed even more. The 5 Types of German Shepherds 1. They are thought to be as closely related to what Max von Stephanitz had in mind. Not only are they charming, but they are also workers at heart. As with most working lines, these dogs tend to be smaller by a slight margin opposed to show lines. They are bred to have a high pain tolerance, which makes them much more valuable in their field of work. They are hardy in structure and have more of a blended coat pattern, known as a sable color. While this is the most common, they can also be black and tan or a mixture of sable and black. These dogs are much higher energy than show lines, which also means their prey drive is much higher. Having these working lines as pets is absolutely doable. However, it may require a bit more commitment on your part. These hard workers will need various games or tasks to fulfill their mental thirst. Agility runs, stimulating games for sensory, and a sense of purpose is essential. Read about the best food for this breed. They share much of the same history as well. They were bred and tailored particularly for their extremely heightened desire to work, along with their quick ability to guard. Because of their prey drive instinct, monitoring them around other animals and small children can help to avoid primal triggers. Some are incredibly docile and sweet, never hurting a fly. However, because of their working roots, it is something to watch for as a responsible owner. They have incredible focus and endurance, suiting them perfectly for physically and mentally stimulating roles. Like their West brothers and sisters, East German DDRs have sable coloring, though most are darker and sometimes even black. German Shepherd puppies have a different diet — get them what they need! Czechs are a bit leaner than other working lines and are nimble because of that. They tend to mature the slowest growth -wise of the working lines. They were once the most prey driven, which led to high stamina and agility. While this line has calmed over the years, they are still hard-wired for work. So, if you opt for a Czech puppy, reputable breeding to ensure a proper temperament for your family situation is imperative. Having appropriate outlets is vital. If you want the best out of your dog , providing them with appropriate behavioral training is key to an irreplaceable relationship. Because of muddied breeding, many Czech puppies have bloodlines that veered off, mixed with another German Shepherd type line along the way. Looking to travel with your German Shepherd? These lines are the most different of all the Shepherd variations. Since they are a combination of many bloodlines, you may notice that an American Shepherd is more substantial in build and their heads and muzzles are shorter. American show line German Shepherds are most generally black and tan, though with specific breeding, they can be a variety of colors. They are generally lighter and have more of a sloping gait and longer hocks than their European relatives. Their underbellies are thicker, as are their chest portions. Because of the backyard breeding problem among Shepherds in America, many of these dogs are passed off as champions but are muddied down. So, if you want a show-quality Shepherd, be sure to do your homework. Proven bloodlines are a must to ensure good temperament and quality. Backyard breeding has led to these guys getting quite a bad rap. You may see people selling shepherds claiming strong champion bloodlines, but these may not be authentic. While people may not breed these dogs to be irresponsible, it leads to many undesirable traits, such as nervousness, aggression, and various health issues. Need a convenient place for your training treats? Best Treat Bags for Dog Training 5. They are typically a rich rust color and black. Their backs are straighter, preventing any excessive sloping to reduce commonly seen issues. They must pass tests to ensure that their joints and hips are in tip-top order, to avoid problems like hip and elbow dysplasia. The Show lines came about once the working lines were solid, and each dog used for breeding must also double as working dog material. However, rather than being such prey-driven workaholics, these tend to be slow-paced dogs who do better within family structures. Because of selective breeding, European, and mostly German show line German Shepherds, have a less chance of developing issues relating to ill temperaments. Tests will reveal any traits considered unwanted to prevent further breeding from the specimen. Therefore, the most significant difference between show lines of America and Europe is a focus on the overall greatness of the breed. European lines uphold the authenticity of the original breed standards. These strict regulations help produce reliable, well-rounded dogs. This is what initially led to the German Shepherd taking on different breeding structures between the two sides. The separation lasted until .The introduction of the German Shepherd to the United States dates back to .Because of unregulated breeding, the U. Many original bloodlines are now broken, causing undesirable traits in the breed. Czechoslovakia had their hand in things as well, developing their unique spin on the breed. Europe and American lines have differences relating to breed standards. Conclusion Generally, German Shepherds are fantastically loyal and fiercely intelligent. When you opt to purchase a puppy, you must be aware of its history. This step can only help enhance the bond you will have with your pet, as well as prepare you for any bumps in the road of pet-owning. When training is properly implemented, their brains are stimulated , and if they are well-cared for, they are terrific additions to many different lifestyles. To be confident that you are getting a quality dog , deeply research any breeder and their claims to lineage. That will help ensure that you are getting an even-tempered, trainable dog. Many can appear almost entirely black with hints of cappuccino shade closer to the mid-limb region. Black and tan colors are common. In addition to being visibly darker, these dogs, common among working dog breeds, also possess characteristics such as more compact bodies than their show-line counterparts. Their smaller bodies make them more athletic and suited for robust tasks, which means they demand more stimulation. But if you, as an owner, actually want a dog that can engage your family with high energy, then a Working Line GSD is perfect. This perfection also comes on a budget. Ultimately many business factors like supply, demand, experience, reputation, and cost of doing business need to be factored in. One might think that standard best practices like visiting the stud do not apply to working line dogs. Aside from stimulating physical activities, West German Working Line German Shepherds also crave attention and appreciation, much like what an owner would expect to give his faithful companion. So before welcoming a German Shepherd, including the West or East varieties, to your home, ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and standards. These dogs are purpose-bred; they need an owner equally committed to their emotional needs as they are to their physical ones. Finally, West German Working Line dogs have an intimidating presence — an excellent deterrence for intruders and even pests. So, whether you are a farmer or an investment banker, these German Shepherd dogs are bred for a wide range of purposes, and thus, they will make efficient pets. The East German Shepherds, bred with impeccably high standards, showcase unique anatomy. With cappuccino and tan swapped with sable or sober grey, these German Shepherd dogs have a darker appearance with prominent black fur across their backs. At least height-wise, the bigger DDR Shepherds match smaller show-line shepherds. Their purpose-focused breeding is evident in their physical structure. Their backs, alongside their fur color, give away the difference. Interestingly, though working-line German Shepherds are generally cheaper than show-line shepherds, East German GSDs might be an exception. The high standards adhered to in their breeding and their purpose of protection have resulted in their prices coming pretty close to the top-tier show variety. The rarity and robust health of these German Shepherd dogs is another contributing factor to their high prices. Pure DDRs are not only hard to find but also live healthier due to genetic predisposition to the illness being ruthlessly bred out at the stud-selection stage back in the days of Deutsche Demokratische Republik. Consequently, the dog is fit for physically fit single owners and families wanting a guard dog. Their intimidating presence, alongside their devotion to not just you but your entire family, makes them the perfect, practical companion. Their purpose as a protector is undeniably evident. Despite being almost immune to most disorders and diseases that most GSDs are prone to, East German Shepherds cannot defy physics and come with the same drawbacks as any big dog: the wrong crate, crate pad, or bed can seriously affect their joints. Czech German Shepherd Czech German Shepherd Czech German Shepherds , another meticulously bred variant adhering to specific standards, originate from the Czech Republic, or they would have a different name. They are also a working variety and come relatively cheaper than show-line shepherds. They are almost entirely black, sable, or a mix of the two and resemble DDR Shepherds in many visual traits. Their sizes are pretty similar, but it is best to get confirmation from the breeder. Aside from being similar in looks, these dogs are also pretty close to DDR Shepherds in personality and maintenance demands. You will need exciting puzzles and games to keep him occupied throughout his development. But before you try to find a suitable breeder, you must be positive that a Czech GSD is the right fit. However, the visual appeal aspect can be subjective, and looking at the stud can help you assess whether the puppy will grow into the kind of pet you have in mind. More than the looks need to be factored in when selecting a dog. Czech Shepherds have incredible stamina and an intense need to be liked. This makes them the perfect cross between guard dogs and family pets. Like most working lines, they will love you and your family and jump to protect what they love. That also comes with a drawback: you need to teach your Czech Shepherd to differentiate between threats and norms. Fortunately, Czech Shepherds are intelligent enough that if you train them right early on, they can be pretty social and discern between actual threats and the normal. Czech Shepherds are full of energy and need an outlet. If you have productivity problems, getting a Czech Shepherd might not be the right call. But if you are an active individual with enough space in your home and your heart for an eager, high-energy dog, then this breed is ideal for you. There seem to be as many categories of German Shepherds as there are actual German Shepherds. But ultimately, your choice comes down to two options: the working line dogs vs. Pros of.