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Dog acne is inflammation of the lips and the skin of the muzzle, which can appear as red bumps or pimples on the skin. Acne may also occur due to furunculosis, which is when the hair follicle under the skin also known as muzzle folliculitis and furunculosis becomes painful, infected, and inflamed, often filled with pus. This occurs when short hairs on the surface of the skin break and are pushed below the skin surface in the follicle. In both these cases, there is trauma to the tissues, and it can create a chronic condition in which secondary bacterial or fungal infections can complicate the process. This condition is fairly common in young, short, coated breeds of dogs. Symptoms of Dog Acne Dog acne most commonly appears on the bottom of the chin, skin around the mouth, and lower lips. It can look like red bumps, hairless areas, and swelling of the muzzle. As the condition progresses, the bumps can become infected, grow, ooze, or drain fluid. Causes of Dog Acne Although the cause of dog acne is often unknown, possible factors include: Skin damage from rough play or rubbing the face on a rough surface Itching and rubbing triggered by an underlying skin allergy Age most dogs with chin acne are between 6 months and a year old Short hair breeds, such as Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, English Bulldog, Great Dane, Weimaraner, English Mastiff, Rottweiler, and German Short Haired Pointer Dog acne is unique in that typically the only area of the dog affected is the muzzle. In many cases, the cause of acne is unknown. Some possible causes are localized trauma from rough play or rubbing face on carpet or on rough surfaces. Some pets itch and rub from underlying skin allergies that affect many parts of the body , and this can complicate or cause the initial acne flare. How Veterinarians Diagnose Dog Acne It is important to schedule a visit with your veterinarian if you believe your dog has developed acne and is exhibiting any of the above symptoms. Your veterinarian will want to rule out other conditions, such as: Demodicosis : A type of mange that is typically diagnosed through an examine of skin scrapings under a microscope. Ringworm : In its early stages this fungus resembles acne, so your veterinarian will pluck several hairs for a culture. It typically takes 10 to 14 days to determine whether there is a fungal infection. Puppy Strangles : A skin disorder that appears in puppies and can resemble acne. Typically, your veterinarian will do a thorough examination and ask for history regarding diet, treats, supplements, and home environment your vet may ask about the types of dishes used for pets or whether other pets are in the home. Some pets can have a contact reaction to plastic bowls. Also, it is possible that contamination of bacteria or yeast can hide in micro scratches on plastic dishes. Your vet may also take skin samples to look for secondary bacteria, yeast, or Demodex mites and possibly order a dermatophyte fungal culture. A bacterial culture may be taken if the acne shows signs of draining to identify the type of bacteria. In rare cases, a biopsy may be performed to check deep disease, unusual lesions, or cases not responding to therapy. Treatment of Dog Acne Treatment of dog acne can include medication, dietary changes, and behavioral therapy. Your veterinarian may prescribe topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and fight any bacterial infection, if necessary. Medications can include: Anti-inflammatories Antibiotics Antifungals Your vet may suggest behavioral therapy to help your dog avoid injuring the area from rough play or rubbing their face on rough surfaces. Your vet may also recommend how to properly clean the infected area to prevent secondary infections. If your vet finds that your dog has an underlying allergy, they may suggest diet therapy, supplements, and allergy medications prescription or over-the-counter. Recovery and Management of Dog Acne Most dogs with acne recover with proper treatment but do require management, which may include preventing recurring trauma, using topical medications during flare ups, and long-term allergy management if necessary. Some severe cases can result in scarring and can be prone to lesion recurrence. Behavioral modification to limit contact with rough surfaces or rough play can help limit hair breakage. Keeping the chin area clean and dry can help prevent secondary infections. Will dog acne go away on its own? Because the follicle becomes inflamed when the broken hair is pushed deep under the skin, dog chin acne usually requires some form of treatment. The treatment may be mild to significant depending on the individual case. Some dogs with a deep skin infection pyoderma may require several months on medications. Is dog acne contagious? Most often dog acne is not contagious. If there is a secondary bacterial or fungal infection, the chance of spreading the infection is minimal. VINcyclopedia of Diseases. Doerr, Katherine DMV. Featured Image: iStock. I am using the gel the Vet prescribed, will the acne scars heal? And will they be visible after they heal? Overview Acne is common in some dog breeds, the Boxer included. Many wonder what causes this and there are actually 2 elements at play. Pimples develop when short hairs are irritated. Though, hormonal imbalances are thought to be a mature contributing factor as well since most dogs develop this during puberty 5 months to 1 year is the age that this is most common as the Boxer matures. While it tends to go away on its own in time, it should be treated since: 1 It can cause scars 2 Big pimples on a Boxer dog can actually sting quite a bit and also cause pretty intense itching 3 Without treatment, pimples can keep popping up until a Boxer reaches maturity the 2 year old mark The combination of the pain and itching can cause a puppy or dog to scratch at the area or rub his face against a surface like carpeting… And this just causes more irritation and exasperates the problem. There are steps that you can take to solve the problem and to help to prevent scarring. Making Sure it is Acne It is important that your vet perform the proper tests to ensure proper diagnoses, as this can be confused with a few other skin disorders. Other health issues can appear to be canine acne and should be ruled out. This is a form a mange and a scrapping of the affected skin on your Boxer should be done. The material scraped off should be examined under a microscope to rule out this possibility. Ringworm is not actually worms. It is a fungus type skin infection. Small hairs should be plucked out and a culture will be run to rule this out. This is not common, but should be ruled out. This looks very similar to canine acne. Dogs with this have a poor appetite and weakness. If your Boxer shows these symptoms and has not yet been checked for this, it is highly recommended. Treatment for Dog Acne If acne is indeed the correct diagnosis, your vet is on the mark. A gel containing benzoyl peroxide is used. An owner must take care to not use too much. Dogs are very sensitive to this and using more than is prescribed will not help, but will do more harm. A topical antibiotic should be given to prevent secondary infections. If swelling is moderate to extreme, topical steroids should be applied to help with that issue. In chronic cases of canine acne with Boxers, cases in which the acne will just not go away long term low-dose antibiotics and sometimes steroids should be given, in pill form. Once acne is under control, minor cases of chin acne on the Boxer can be treated with Sogeval Douxo Chlorhexidine 3-Percent PS Pads , which can be used daily. Scarring This is a bit tricky, because the possibility of scarring will depend on how deep the acne is and how chronic it is. Do be sure to never "pop a pimple" as this will not only cause your Boxer a lot of pain but will open the area for infection. It is the secondary infections which would be the main cause that leads to any potential scarring. For this reason, either topical antibiotic solution or antibiotics medication in pill form for chronic cases should be given. There has been some pleasing results with dog owners who use Calendula. This is a concentrate made from the Marigold flower. It has been shown to help with healing and scarring in many cases. You can find this at a health food store, vitamin store or in the Boxer Dog Specialty Shoppe mentioned above. You would put drops into 1 ounce of warm water. Mix well. Using a cotton ball, apply this 2 times per day. While canine acne is not uncommon in the Boxer breed, it usually lessens and sometimes goes away completely as the dog grows and matures just like people. Do please make sure that your vet checked for other possible causes and then do make sure that antibiotics are being given. Lastly, using Calendula is very safe when applied as stated above , it will most likely help with healing and should help with scarring. You May Also Be Interested in:. However, like any breed, they can be prone to certain skin issues. Does your dog suffer from allergies? Try Wild Earth! All of the nutrition. None of the top food allergens. Learn how thousands of dogs have found relief when they switched to Wild Earth. Subscribe Food Allergies Boxers are prone to allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies, and contact allergies. These allergies can manifest as itching, redness, rashes, and ear infections. The top five most common food allergens for dogs are beef, dairy, chicken, wheat and lamb. According to a study on PubMed. If your pup does suffer from food allergies, make sure to eliminate all other sources of animal-based protein, including treats and table scraps. Our Wild Earth treats are a great way to treat your dog, without the itch! Environmental and Contact Allergies Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or certain chemicals can cause allergies. Boxers can be sensitive to irritants in their environment as they have short fur which means that their skin comes into contact with environmental or contact irritants more often, including which can easily be picked up on walks. To help protect your pup from these common allergens, wipe down their paws and bellies after walks with a damp towel. You can also help by changing your HVAC filters regularly and using powerful air purifiers indoors. Other possible contact allergens can include anything your dog comes into contact with, including household cleaning products, detergents, and shampoos. If you suspect your dog is suffering from environmental allergies, speak to your veterinarian. They may prescribe antihistamines or medications such as Cytopoint. Learn how Wild Earth can help your dog live longer and visit the vet less. Take The Quiz Acne You may be surprised to learn that dogs can get acne too! Boxers are prone to acne, especially during their adolescent stage. Acne in Boxers typically appears on the chin and muzzle area, where hair follicles become clogged with excess oil, dirt, and bacteria. This can lead to the formation of small pimples, pustules, or blackheads. The exact cause of acne in Boxers is not fully understood, but genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, allergies, and certain environmental factors can contribute to its development. Symptoms of acne in Boxers can include redness, inflammation, swelling, and occasionally, discomfort. In more severe cases, the pimples may become infected, leading to the formation of abscesses. At home, you should keep the affected area clean and dry. Gentle cleansing with a mild, veterinary-approved cleanser can help remove excess oil and debris. Although it may be tempting, avoid squeezing or picking at the pimples, as this can worsen the condition and lead to further infection. If necessary, your veterinarian may recommend topical treatments or, in severe cases, oral medications to help reduce inflammation and control any bacterial infections. In order to prevent acne, it is vital to maintain good hygiene practices, such as regular bathing with appropriate veterinarian-recommended shampoos and avoiding contact with potential irritants. It is caused by an overgrowth of Demodex mites, which are microscopic parasites that naturally inhabit the skin of dogs. While these mites are normally present in small numbers and do not cause any issues, an overpopulation can lead to skin problems. Demodectic mange in Boxers typically occurs in two forms: localized and generalized. Localized demodectic mange is characterized by the appearance of a few small, well-defined patches of hair loss, usually on the face or legs. The skin in these areas may become red, inflamed, and scaly. Generalized demodectic mange, as the name implies, is more severe and can spread to larger areas of the body, leading to widespread hair loss, thickened skin, sores, and secondary infections. The exact cause of demodectic mange is not fully understood, but factors such as a weakened immune system, genetic predisposition, stress, or hormonal imbalances may contribute to its development. Demodectic mange is more common in young dogs, including Boxer puppies, as their immune systems are still developing. In adult dogs, while some may have no underlying disease, demodicosis can occur as a result of immunosuppression due to drugs or systemic disease such as cancer, malnutrition, or hypothyroidism to name a few. Therefore, dogs with adult-onset demodicosis should have a detailed physical examination and full diagnostic workup performed to identify a potential underlying disease. Evidence has indicated that successful treatment of an underlying disease may contribute to remission of demodicosis in roughly half of affected adult dogs. Diagnosing demodectic mange involves a skin scraping or biopsy to identify the presence of Demodex mites. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases of localized demodectic mange may resolve on their own or with topical treatments, such as medicated shampoos or ointments. Generalized demodectic mange often requires more aggressive treatment, including oral medications such as anti-parasitic drugs or antibiotics to control secondary infections. Regular follow-ups and ongoing monitoring are necessary to ensure the mites are effectively controlled and to prevent recurrence. Pyoderma Pyoderma is a bacterial skin infection that can occur in Boxers, and often develops secondary to allergic dermatitis. Boxers with underlying allergies, such as food allergies or environmental allergies, may have compromised skin barriers, making them more susceptible to pyoderma. Insufficient cleaning of skin folds can also contribute to the development of pyoderma. Moreover, Boxers with weakened immune systems or certain medical conditions may be more susceptible to developing pyoderma. The symptoms of pyoderma in Boxers can vary depending on the severity and location of the infection. Typical signs of pyoderma include skin redness and inflammation, and small, pus-filled bumps on the skin which can rupture, resulting in discharge or crusting. Your Boxer will likely experience itching, leading to scratching, licking, or rubbing at the affected areas. As pyoderma progresses, hair loss or thinning may occur in the infected regions. If the infection becomes severe or there is a secondary yeast infection, you may notice a foul odor. If you suspect your dog has pyoderma, consult with your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian will assess the severity of the infection and may recommend diagnostic tests, such as skin scrapings or bacterial cultures, to identify the specific bacteria involved. They may recommend antibiotics, topical treatments, and proper skinfold hygiene. Skin Fold Dermatitis Boxers have adorable wrinkles and skin folds, but these areas can be prone to irritation and infection. Wrinkle and fold dermatitis is primarily caused by the combination of moisture and heat. The folds create an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive, leading to irritation, inflammation, and infection. Keeping the skin folds clean and dry by regularly cleaning and drying them with a mild, vet-approved cleanser. Another great way to help prevent this issue is to make sure your Boxer maintains a healthy weight in order to reduce skin fold friction. Boxers with wrinkle and fold dermatitis may exhibit the following symptoms: Redness and inflammation. Rottweilers Doberman Pinschers Any dog can develop acne regardless of breed, and other factors include stress and damaged hair follicles, similar to ingrown hairs. Bulldogs and other dogs with wrinkly skin are more likely to develop acne because bacteria become trapped between skin folds, creating the perfect environment for pimples to bloom. If you own a young dog of the above breeds, preventative measures such as a healing balm are a good idea. How to Solve Dog Acne Naturally From benzoyl peroxide creams to laser-beam zit-killing machines, humans have manufactured a wide variety of treatment options to get rid of human acne. These and other organic essentials combine to treat a variety of canine skin conditions including dog acne, skin fold dermatitis, yeast infections, itchy skin, and more. Your vet may prescribe oral antibiotics or a topical treatment to help reduce pimples and resolve any infection. Being a white Boxer, he is very sensitive. I will be recommending this to all of my dog lovers and my VET!! Awesome stuff!!! And smells so clean! LinkedIn We all love our Boxers, and they are one of the most playful and entertaining dogs to own. Boxer dog acne is a common problem that many dog owners are faced with. Boxers are extremely sensitive dogs, to begin with, and they are prone to allergies. Many Veterinarians will prescribe you medications or ointments to treat the problem without actually getting rid of the source of the problem. Not getting rid of the cause of the problem only makes it come back as soon as you stop using the dog acne medications. The reason that your Boxer dog is getting these huge pimples around the mouth area is due to plastic exposure. Some boxers seem to be allergic to plastic, some bulldogs face the same problem, and it may run in the Molosser family itself. The same problem can be seen in Mastiffs as well. My Boxer was outdoors a lot, and he used to chew on plastic bottles and other things outside, and worst of all, they are attracted to these things. Plastic is an easy and enjoyable chew toy for many dogs. Little did I know, I was also aiding to the problem as a dog owner. Boxer Dog Acne Solutions Here are some solutions to the problem. Do not purchase plastic toys for your dog. Do not feed your dog in a plastic bowl. After making these changes, you should see results immediately. You will see immediate results within a few days to 2 weeks, and you can also tell by the reduction of pimples in the lip area. Boxer acne is a terrible condition, and it can be annoying for the dogs, especially when they burst and ooze. It is a heartbreaking sight for any dog owner to watch. To treat the wounds until they go away, use warm water to clean the area every day. Apply aloe vera to the affected area. The warm water will open up the pores for the aloe vera to do its magic. I want to show you all a picture of the Boxer acne condition. Related Posts.

Tiny bernedoodles range in size from pounds. F1B Mini Bernedoodles will have a higher success rate for non-shedding and are recommended for families with moderate to severe allergies. The F1B Mini Bernedoodles have beautiful loose wavy to curly plush coats Utahbernedoodles welcomes you to a world of Bernedoodles. We raise the best Bernedoodles in America. Bernedoodles are a hybrid cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. To my knowledge I was one of the first breeders in America to purposely cross the Bernese with the poodle. I have worked hard to develop a program that focuses on health, calm temperament, and consistent beautiful colors. We focus on Tricolor, Sable tricolor, Merle tricolor, and Phantom. Be sure to also check out our Available Puppies page and information on our Upcoming Litters. A mini bernedoodle is a cross between a mini poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Mini Bernedoodles can range in size from pounds with the average pounds. While the Mini Bernedoodle is typically a low-shedding dog, it does shed some. The Mini Bernedoodle works well for many allergy sufferers. F1B Bernedoodles will have a higher success rate for non-shedding and are recommended for families with moderate to severe allergies. The F1B Bernedoodles have beautiful loose wavy to curly plush coats. Mountain Blue Doodles We live in the mountains of southwest Utah and are committed to breeding the best Bernedoodle puppies available. Our Bernedoodle puppies are happy, healthy little creatures that are low to non-shedding and just waiting for good homes! Each of our puppies comes with a paid microchip and a 2-year health guarantee. Our puppies are very healthy and have great temperaments, beautiful coats and represent the best of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle characteristics. Getting Your Puppy! We will meet you at the Grand Junction, Colorado airport with your puppy ready to carry on or at a local park for those driving. We are also happy to have visitors to our Puppy House for pick up in Monticello, Utah. Check the Schedule We are a breeder of Bernedoodles! We are growing slowly, making sure each of our parent dogs is exactly right, and that our puppies get all of the care and attention they need to make them excellent companions for your family. Check the schedule to find a litter that's right for you. K9s for Warriors We are proud to donate some of our puppies to this very good cause. K9s For Warriors provides dogs to veterans who fought for our freedom to live a life of dignity and independence. Graduates of the program are able to live a life that they previously did not think possible. Many have reunited with their families, gone back to school, found renewed enjoyment in life, and significantly reduced their medications. Research: First and foremost, make sure that the breeder is reputable and has a good track record. There are many ways to research this, including reading online reviews and talking to other dog owners who have purchased Bernedoodles puppies from them. Health: Second, you want to make sure that the Bernedoodle puppies are healthy and well-cared for. Ask the breeder about the health of the parents and grandparents, and whether or not the puppies have been to the vet for a checkup. This means they should be introduced to a variety of people, and other animals, which will be beneficial for novice owners. Puppies from a reputable breeder are going to be more expensive than those from a backyard breeder. But, in the long run, a puppy from a reputable breeder is going to be healthier and have fewer behavior issues. Meet the Parents: If possible, you should meet the parents of the puppies before making your final decision. This will give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of temperament and appearance. But if you need more convincing, here are just a few reasons why a Bernedoodle might be the perfect pup for you. Coat: Bernedoodles come in three different coat types: wavy, curly, and straight. Temperament: Bernedoodles are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. They are also very loyal and affectionate with their families and get along well with children and other pets. Size: Bernedoodles come in three different sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Standard Bernedoodles can weigh anywhere from pounds, while Miniature Bernedoodles usually weigh in at pounds. Toy Bernedoodles are the smallest of the bunch, weighing in at 12 pounds or less. Health: Bernedoodles are generally a healthy breed, and are not known to suffer from any major health conditions. However, like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia. But with proper care and regular vet check-ups, your Bernedoodle should enjoy a long and healthy life. When it comes to finding the perfect Bernedoodle puppy in Utah, price is often a major consideration. While there is no definitive answer when it comes to how much a Bernedoodle puppy may cost, there are a few things that can help you budget for your new furry friend. However, depending on the specific breeder and bloodline of your puppy, the price could be higher or lower. In addition to the cost of the puppy itself, there are also a few other expenses to consider when bringing a Bernedoodle into your home. These include things like shots, spaying or neutering, and microchipping. All of these costs can add up, so be sure to factor them into your budget when deciding whether or not a Bernedoodle is the right breed for you. When it comes to finding the perfect Bernedoodle puppy in Utah, price is certainly something to consider. If you know any great Bernedoodle breeder who lives in Utah, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in Utah? It really helps others who are looking for a Bernedoodle Puppies in Utah. Conclusion for Bernedoodle Breeders in Utah: Hope you Like this post, so these are the best Bernedoodle Breeders in Utah that we have added to our list. And we believe there are many but we will thoroughly review and close check the breeder before adding it to our list. If you are looking for the best Bernedoodle Breeders in Utah, you can consider one of these breeders. Very thorough, very accommodating, very loved and cared for puppies. Couldn't say enough great things about Down Home Doodles! My family has always had dogs, but this is MY first. As this is my first dog, there are obviously a lot of questions at every turn. .Lyn has answered my thousands of questions in such a great way. .Not to mention she and her daughter are amazing trainers. I would recommend Down Home Doodles to anyone looking to add a healthy, loving Bernedoodle to their home. We have already turned all of our friends into Bernedoodle lovers. From initially answering our questions about adoption to now supporting us as Charlie becomes comfortable in our home, every step of the way was positive and we felt as though we were adopting Charlie from friends. Our Charlie is healthy, happy, and the most beautiful dog. With training she came home to us with the basic skills down so it was an easy transition. They really care about their puppies and even took time to help me out with training my pup! Thank you guys!!! They are very knowledgeable with their breeding, ensuring you will have the best addition to your family, and answer any and all questions! The environment they raise their pups in until they go to their new homes is awesome and loving.

If not, here is the form! Get a bite of what is happening at WCBR, our dogs, our amazing adopters and all the incredible people that keep this rescue going! Email Address Woot Woo! We will never keep you chained or leashed to our list. You can run free at anytime, unsubscribe at the bottom of any emails you receive. We are so excited to have you in the fun! His love and compassion for Boxers was felt by those who had the pleasure of spending time with him. Ken loved sports and spending time with friends. He also collected sports memorabilia and other collectibles like Hot Wheels. He truly loved Milo, featured in the the photo with him. Every time we received a message from him he included a picture of him and Milo. He never gave up hope that some treatment would be the ultimate cure. He worked as long as he could and made his journey to the light in late June. His weakened system just couldn't fight any longer. He will be deeply missed by WCBR, and we wish his family peace with his loss. Thank you to so many who have donated to WCBR in his memory. Ken will forever be in our hearts. We need your help. The number of Boxers being surrendered by families and in the shelters is overwhelming. We continue to receive owner surrenders a week, along with multiple pleas from surrounding shelters for Boxers in need. So many Boxer are coming from families that are no longer able to financially care for them, just don't want them, many are dealing with illness or the Boxer's pet parent has passed away, and many just are moving. Without the funding or foster homes, sadly we have to turn away these surrenders. Please Foster, Fund or be a Forever Home. Please learn a bit more about our Boxers on our "Meet Our Boxers" page where you can see pictures, video, and information about them. We are a homeschooling family; therefore we are home everyday and able to provide our puppies with lots of attention and family interaction. Our emphasis here at Box Elder Creek is on doing our very best to provide families and individuals with a quality puppy; one that is healthy, well socialized, has an outstanding well-rounded disposition and has the look of a true quality Boxer. We do not have puppies all the time, as we chose to only have a few litters per year; in doing so we are able to dedicate a lot of time, care, love, and attention to each and every one of our puppies. We know that we have a very limited amount of time before our puppies will be leaving us and joining their new families; we feel it is our responsibility to get our puppies off on a great start in life while they are here with us, this helps ensure they will be ready and able to become a valued and much loved member of their new family. Boxers make wonderful family pets, they are great with kids and have excellent temperaments, but they are not for everyone. They love to be a part of the family and enjoy any activity that involves interaction with people, be that hiking, jogging, agility, games that make them think, lounging, babysitting, learning try clicker training , patrol duty, stealing children's toys to get everyone to chase after them, they are prone to collect shoes into piles they seem to think this is an important job , re-arranging the laundry is a favorite past time Boxers are always very helpful!! Life with a Boxer is never dull!!! They are silly and very much a jokester. Please make sure a Boxer is for you before purchasing one as they will test your patience at times. If you are looking for a dog that is independent, a Boxer is not for you as their family is very important to them and they tend to want to follow you around all day long. Boxers adore their family and it is very important that they be apart of it. I also highly recommend before purchasing a Boxer that you make sure you will have the time for proper training, as lack of training is the 1 reason Boxers end up in Boxer Rescue. We are delighted to welcome you to our website and we hope to have the opportunity to welcome you into our Boxer family! All Rights Reserved.

You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting an English Bulldog, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to English Bulldogs". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Bulldog from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Bulldog puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many English Bulldogs young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos! Puppy Breeds Known for their loose-jointed, shuffling gait and massive, short-faced head, the English Bulldog is known to be equable, resolute and dignified. A medium-sized dog, they are not your typical lap dog, but would like to be! They are one of the most popular breeds according toAKC Registration Statistics due to their lovable and gentle dispositions and adorable wrinkles. The English Bulldog may be brindle, white, red, fawn, fallow or piebald. The original bulldog had to be ferocious and courageous, and almost insensitive to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England, fanciers set to the task of preserving the breed by eliminating the fierce characteristics. Within a few generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament. Temperament English Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. They tend to be gentle and protective. The breed requires minimal grooming and exercise. Their short nose makes them prone to overheating in warm weather, so make sure to provide a shady place to rest. Generally, Bulldogs are known for getting along well with children, other dogs, and pets. They can become so attached to home and family, that they will not venture out of the yard without a human companion. Bulldogs do better with positive training. They love getting rewarded with treats! Here at Petland, we have many different types of training treats because we know all the pups love them! Ranging in size from 40 to 50 pounds. Family companion. Apartment is fine, also small condo Low activity indoors, due to their snouts thrive in moderate climates. At cheappuppiesforsale. These lovable puppies are perfect for anyone looking for an affordable family pet. English Bulldogs are small, fun dogs that require minimal training. They are known for their clownish personalities and love of cuddles. History of English bulldog puppies English bulldog puppies are a completely man-made breed. The national dog of England, their strong heads, loose skin and short legs give them a very distinctive, amusing appearance. Bulldogs are generally gentle, affectionate dogs that love to be around their families. They are excellent with children and have a medium-low activity level that makes them great for apartment or city living. These loveable dogs are loyal to a fault and are sure to make you smile. English Bulldogs are calm, non-sporting dogs with a sourmug face that love to chew and play tug-of-war. British Bulldogs rarely bark but snore, snort, wheeze, grunt, and snuffle instead. Bulldogs are a people-oriented, loyal and devoted watchdogs that love to nap by your side. Unlike other breeders, We choose parents not based on champion bloodlines and registry, but on health, temperament, and looks. As a result, cheappuppiesforsale. From this breed of dogs and others,We and our staff offer a variety of healthy, attractive pups 8 weeks of age and older, all of whom are ready for a loving family and home. As a leading national seller of bulldogs, cheappuppiesforsale. The website maintains an extensive FAQ section, where Howard fields questions about the breed regarding health, fitness, care, and maintenance. This handsome English Bulldog will sure melt your heart with one look into his adorable eyes. He is a very social pup who is played with regularly. This fella is excited to meet his forever friend. He is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. Reviews There are no reviews yet.

Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. There are many things you'll need to stock up on before bringing your new puppy home. We'll try and list as many as possible to help you plan ahead. Below you will find a list of many of the most commonly used things you will need to make your life with your new GSD puppy as comfortable as possible. Any or all of these puppy supplies will make the transition into his new home as simple as can be and will be well worth the effort to have them on hand BEFORE you need them. Puppy Food and Water Bowls Important things to consider: glass and ceramic puppy bowls can be very pretty but they are also easily breakable; puppies love to chew and plastic bowls are easily chewed up and some dogs may even have an allergic reaction to plastic. Stainless steel is the best puppy supply choice of all for your German Shepherd puppy. A 2-quart bowl is a great size for dry dog food and a 2-quart pail is an excellent size for water for your German Shepherd puppy. Here's one great food bowl to check out. This also helps to keep the dog food fresher for longer and keeps other "critters" out of the dog food. A dog food scoop is a good choice to help you portion control your puppy meals each time and both of these puppy supplies can be found at almost any pet, hardware or larger dog retail department store. Dog Crate puppy supplies A German Shepherd dog crate made of wire or heavy duty molded plastic will definitely make your housetraining process go much easier, and with less incidence, and is a very important GSD puppy supply that each dog owner should own. Dogs are den animals and the crate serves as a safe haven for the GSD puppy. Dogs are also highly social animals who love to spend time with their human families. For this reason it is best to place the crate in a area near where family members spend a lot of time. Wire and molded plastic dog crates are both very acceptable to use with your new German Shepherd puppy. Wire Crates are lighter to transport and ventilate much easier while the Plastic Kennels are usually sturdier, safer and more comforting to your dog. Some owners get one of each for their GSD puppy and for different uses. Usually dogs will not eliminate in their bedding area. It is best to keep the crate area where the GSD puppy actually sleeps large enough for the GSD puppy to move about and to turn around in, but not so large that it can sleep in one area and "relieve itself" in another part of the crate. You can easily buy dividers to help separate the crate area into smaller areas while your German Shepherd puppy is growing so that you can purchase one crate large enough to accommodate your puppy once it is an adult. Never crate a German Shepherd puppy for more than 2 or 3 hours except at night when it is sleeping. Your new GSD puppy needs lots of opportunities to exercise it's body and mind and overuse of the crate can easily lead to terrible behavior problems for bored or lonely German Shepherd puppies and dogs. If you get a wooden gate, watch your GSD puppy carefully to make sure that it doesn't chew it. Remember, with time the German Shepherd will grow large enough to easily jump over a regular baby gate once it is an adult. This is exactly where all that early training comes in. Collars as puppy supplies can easily be lifesavers! In an emergency you can easily grasp the collar and restrain him as necessary. The most important thing about the collar however is that it carries that very important ID tag, another important puppy supply. In case the dog is lost or stolen, many times this is the first thing someone who finds a stray dog will look for. It is also what helps many dogs get returned to their correct owner. Make sure that the information on the puppy ID tag is current and up to date. There are many different types of collars on the market. Buckle types are one choice, however, I prefer the quick release collars with the plastic clips. There have been a few instances where my GSD's have gotten caught up together while playing and these types of collars have been truly lifesaving. One press of the clip and the puppy collar is off. That would not have been the case if the dogs had been wearing buckle type or some other style of dog collar. I do not suggest ever leaving a choke collar on a dog or puppy full time. Neck injury or worse could easily happen if the German Shepherd were to get caught up in something. If put on incorrectly, and many people do, strangulation could easily occur to your GSD puppy. Here is an example of the quick release collars with the plastic clips that I mentioned earlier that are excellent dog collar choices. GSD Puppy Bedding Fabric bedding that keeps it's shape and is easy to vaccum is a great choice of bedding puppy supplies. Bedding that has a liner that can be taken off is another great plus so that you can wash it whenever necessary and put it back on later. Puppy Doggie Door Supplies If you have the great fortune of having a securely fenced yard for your German Shepherd puppy, then a doggy door is an invaluable puppy supply and aid in the puppy house training process. They can be purchased in several sizes large should be fine for the adult GSD and most can also be locked when you do not want your GSD puppy to go outside. German Shepherd Pooper Scooper puppy supplies Several varieties are available of this particular puppy supply and they are indeed a back saver and a nose saver as well when you are picking up after your GSD. However, if you can't get one, plain old plastic grocery bags work just as well and are basically free. Large kitty litter scoops are good choices of puppy supplies also for this particular purpose when you're in a pinch. GSD Puppy Head Halters These "easy lead" halters are an alternative to conventional puppy collars - the thinking behind them being that if you control and lead the head, that the body will follow. These restraint supplies are very similar to what horses have worn for centuries. It is really important that the fit be correct and that this not be worn without human supervision. Different types of brushes used on a GSD may include any or all of the following - pet shedding blade especially helpful while shedding , a slicker brush and a Rubber Curry Brush. Do not choose anything with small removable parts - and once the toys begin tearing apart go ahead and throw them away. Do not choose balls that are small enough to be swallowed by your puppy - it is best to choose balls bigger than your puppy can easily handle to cut down on this problem. Good choices for German shepherd dog toys are Nylabones , rubber bones , squeaky toys, hard rubber toys like Kongs , balls and plush faux wool toys. Given the suggestions for best puppy toy choices, keep in mind your dogs chewing habits. Aggressive chewers need one kind of toy but destructive chewers need something different all together and each of these dogs would require a different kind of toy. Stick type dog chews are not the best idea since they may become lodged in the German Shepherd's puppies throat. Overall, don't buy too many dog toys. It's a good idea to rotate the puppies toy selection to keep the puppy from getting bored, and from tearing them up quite so quickly. Also, this will help you to see what kind of toys your German Shepherd puppy prefers. Puppy Harnesses Some people prefer these puppy supplies, especially for puppies, and they are also quite good for dogs that are more skittish to head halters or traditional dog collars. Keep in mind that while these puppy supplies are actually quite safe that they do offer much less control than other types of dog collar restraints. Every GSD owner should have several 4 -6 foot leashes, preferably made of leather , but nylon or cotton types work also - they just don't last as long as the leather. All materials have their good and bad points and in many cases it simply comes down to an issue of supply preference as well a economic issue. Other choices are long training leads and show type dog leashes. The German Shepherd puppy will probably fuss with it at first but should soon get used to it. Keep an eye on the puppy while the leash is attached to make sure that it doesn't get hung up on something else. Also make sure that the GSD puppy doesn't chew it up while wearing it. When you do finally grab hold of the end of the dog leash, follow where the German Shepherd puppy goes while holding the end of the leash. After a bit you can take the lead and have the puppy follow you. Call the GSD puppy to you and reward him generously when he comes to you on lead. After a bit of training and practice the German Shepherd puppy should follow you easily. Don't struggle with the puppy at this point and if he resists lure him to you with a cookie or a treat of some sort. You do not want to get into a tug of war and you do not want to give in to the GSD puppy either. Keep luring the puppy to you with a treat and he'll eventually learn that it is good to do what he is asked to do and the GSD puppy will be rewarded for doing as asked. Here is one great leather leash to check into investing in. Chewing is also a very important factor in helping their incoming adult teeth settle properly. As the owner it is your job to help direct your new GSD puppy as to what things are healthy to chew on and which ones are not. Anti chew spray is just one of the helpful puppy supplies to help control destructive chewing by applying a very bad tasting spray on the object to discourage the dog from chewing on it. It is best to restrain your GSD while traveling to protect both your dog, your passengers and you. This is one of many important puppy supplies you will need for your new puppy. Puppy Health Insurance Puppy Insurance plans cover pets for thousands of medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. One puppy insurance plan is listed for you below to check out at your convenience. Feeding and grooming 1. Traditional leather collars with an engraved tag are a popular choice. They can be personalised with up to 25 characters of information which will help someone return your pup to you. But here at Happy Puppy HQ, we love them! If your puppy reaches the end of their leash quite suddenly, a harness distributes the impact over a large area of predominantly muscle, rather than concentrating it on a small area of delicate throat tissues. And they make it easier to safely control your puppy during training. Travel Restraint Most people want to be able to travel with their dog. But there are some things to buy German Shepherd puppies that will make this easier. Puppies who travel unrestrained in vehicles can be somewhat mischievous however! It can be all too tempting to try and climb into your lap or your footwell, for a bit of attention. Furthermore, unrestrained dogs are more likely to sustain serious injuries in a collision. However, if your GSD puppy is a destructive chewer, this kind of crate might not last long. Another Alternative A great alternative is anchoring their harness securely to the seat belt plug. This will keep your puppy in place, and distribute the impact of a crash as safely as possibly over his body. So one of the things to buy a German Shepherd puppy is a leash. Young puppies are very receptive to new experiences, so teaching them to accept wearing a leash is easiest while they are still young. Most GSD puppy parents find that they need two types of leash. The Two Types First, a short lead for keeping their dog under close control near traffic and whilst walking on the sidewalk. Crate People tend to have mixed feelings about dog crates. But used responsibly, they have heaps of advantages. They can become a cosy den for your puppy, which he will learn to associate with being safe and relaxed in. They can make toilet training quicker and easier. And they prepare your dog for being unavoidable crating in the future, for example if they ever need to stay at the vet, or travel by air. Our crate training article is all about how to choose the best crate, and use it correctly. And this article is all about choosing the right size for a German Shepherd. So add some bedding to your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy! If you decide to move onto something more supportive as they grow up, our review of the best beds for German Shepherds will help you find the perfect next step. Many of them are available in standard crate sizes too — perfect for making the bottom of a crate as luxurious as can be! Puppies are curious, playful, and at times even total trouble-magnets! Creating a safe place in your home where you can leave them for a few moments to visit the bathroom or answer the door protects them from harm and gives you peace of mind. Your puppy zone should ideally have wipe clean floors in case of toilet accidents, and you should invest a little time teaching them to associate it with good things — by leaving treats in it for them to find, and returning their favorite toys there when they leave them lying around. Toys Like all puppies, German Shepherd pups have stacks of energy. So, toys should be a priority on your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy. They love to play, and playing plays a valuable role in developing their muscles, motor skills and coordination. In fact, GSDs have pretty tough teeth and jaws, even from a young age. So we recommend choosing toys designed with durability in mind. Food and Water Bowls All puppies need access to clean, fresh water. And whilst we recommend using most of their daily food allowance as rewards during training, you might also like to give them small meals in a bowl. In fact it is estimated that bloat causes the death of approximately 1 in 7 GSDs. Food Your puppy should come home with a modest supply of the food they were weaned onto by their breeder. This will minimize the possibility of them etting an upset tummy. Our article on the best diets for German Shepherd Dogs will give you some food for thought. Are they just the start of a slippery slope towards canine obesity? Well, we think treats have an important role to play in successful German Shepherd training! But the best way to capture a new behavior, or advance an established area of training to the next level, is by offering a high value food reward at first. Pieces of cooked chicken or small cubes of cheese are equally effective. Some we Like You may need to experiment with a few brands to find out which your GSD will work the hardest for. These basics belong in every dog owners kit: A brush, for removing loose hair, debris, matts and tangles — German Shepherds need their coats brushing at least two or three times a week. Shampoo, for when they roll in in something stinky. Toothbrush and Toothpaste These could be considered part of general grooming supplies. Medical procedures such as setting broken bones and corrective surgery for bloat cost several thousand dollars. Most insurance plans have the added bonus of including public liability cover. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Getting your relationship off to a good start begins by finding the best puppy products that are also the safest and best performing. Puppies learn good potty habits when introduced to a properly-sized crate early on. You have options! Using the handy, included divider, you can slowly increase the size of the crate to match the life stage of your GSD as she grows. The foldable design adds to the convenience and makes it a great crate for travel, too. This crate is 48L x 30W x 33H inches. This crate divider from MidWest Homes for Pets comes in a variety of sizes. Make sure you choose the proper size to fit your model of crate to prevent injuries. This crate also comes in a double door style if you prefer. We like the rounded corners, sturdy wire construction, and the 1-year warranty. Enter the hard-shell plastic kennels from SportPet. These airline-approved crates are sturdy, safe, and comfortable to make sure your GSD puppy has the safest trip possible. They also make great everyday crates for at-home use, too. This crate comes in a variety of sizes, so either start small and upgrade later or go for the adult-sized crate right from the start. With rounded edges, secure-lock doors, and easy-clean plastic floor gutters, this travel crate is sure to please. The larger sizes even come with wheels to help you move through the airport with ease. Give him the next best thing by providing soft, supportive, comfortable bedding for in the crate and around the house. With supportive, comfortable memory foam and a removable and washable cover, this bed should last a long time. There is therapeutic gel infused in the memory foam to help promote proper joint alignment and bring your dog comfort during rest time. Cuddle beds are great options for pups who need a little more support or who enjoy the feeling of being cradled. Made from top-quality memory foam, your GSD puppy will be snuggled in therapeutic comfort right from day one. The waterproof liner will keep things sanitary, while the removable cover will make cleanup a snap. This crate mat from Best Pet Supplies Inc. Have a couple of these on hand for quick and easy bedding changes. Choose between small, medium, large, or extra-large to match your use. Take a small or medium in the car, place a large or extra-large in the crate or on the couch. This fuzzy blanket will keep your pup warm and cozy no matter where you go. This soft and cozy mat does double-duty covering both ends of the spectrum. This absorbent mat will wick moisture away while still giving your sweet pup a soft and comfy place to rest. Double stitching ensures the mat will last a long time, even with frequent washings. There are two colors to choose from and three sizes. We suggest having two—one for use and one in the wash. Food and water bowls should be kept clean and sanitized to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. These products below pass our rigorous tests and came out on top of the competition. These raised feeder stations grow with your puppy and keep food and water raised above the floor. Raising the food and water dish off the floor helps your pup eat and drink comfortably while preventing pests from reaching. This one comes with 3 height adjustment settings and includes the two stainless steel bowls, too. With leg extensions, this feeder can adjust as your puppy grows, making this an economical solution, too. Puppies can really eat fast, and this often ends up in tummy aches and sometimes even vomiting. Teach your puppy to slow down with this slow feeder bowl. Small bits of kibble rest in the bottom of each dip in the bowl, making your puppy take her time to get to each one. This neat rubber mat is cute and functional, holding the two stainless steel bowls firmly in place during meal times. The edges even fold up a bit to help catch spills and dribbles. Loving Pets Metallic Bella Bowl For our readers who prefer a more minimalist approach to dog supplies, these cute bowls should do the trick. They come in a variety of colors on the outside, but the inside is time-tested stainless steel. These bowls are skid-proof on the bottom and are dishwasher safe, too. Just be sure to remove the rubber base first. The best way to safely confine a GSD puppy while still allowing room to play is by providing a playpen or play yard. Amazon comes through with flying colors with this adjustable, foldable playpen. It has rounded, safe wire construction and comes in a variety of sizes to fit your needs. You can also daisy chain a few of them together to create an ever-expanding play yard for your GSD puppy. You can choose a play yard with a door or without. This set also comes with eight ground anchors to keep even the most rambunctious puppies from toppling the sides. Inspired Essentials 34 Inch Pet Playpen Sometimes you want a safe play yard for your German Shepherd puppy but also want some class, too. With sturdy, heavy-duty plastic in black or white, this play yard can look good in any house or yard. There are non-skid feet included and it comes with a gate to make access that much easier. Bring her along with this brilliant portable playpen. This set includes a collapsible travel bowl, too, which we think is pretty neat. This item comes with inches of usable length and stands at 28 inches tall. We love that it even folds flat if you need to transport or store it. However, we can give a basic overview of things to discuss with your vet when asking about the best foods for your puppy at each life stage. There are always basic guidelines online, but your vet is the right person to ask for advice to keep your specific puppy in the best health possible. Their products are made without corn, wheat, or soy, and there are no artificial colors or flavors. Their puppy treats contain no corn, wheat, or soy, and are perfectly shaped for puppy mouths. Soft and moist, these puppy treats are great for training, playtime, or just to give your GSD puppy a special treat to say you love her. The ring shape is easy for puppy paws to get a good grip on while they chew and relieve teething pain. They are fun, interactive, and educational objects that keep your puppy entertained and out of trouble. The most important aspect, however, is that toys help you bond with your German Shepherd puppy. They often show signs of separation anxiety early on, especially while crate training. To help alleviate this stress, the Snuggle Puppy plush toy can be introduced right from day one. With a realistic heartbeat and a warm pack, this plush toy gives stressed out pups a soft, comforting, familiar place to rest and relax. The unique tube shape is easy to grasp with teeth or paws, and the squeaker is just loud enough to be fun without being so loud it gets annoying. These toys are fun to toss around, play tug with, and are durable enough for teething puppies. ZippyPaws — Skinny Peltz These sweet plush toys have no stuffing to rip out and choke on, which is a pretty big deal for aggressive chewers! But even without the stuffing, these three woodland creatures are filled with fun. This bobbing, wobbling treat dispenser is endless fun when filled with either regular kibble or a delicious treat. Your GSD puppy will love pushing the toy around and discovering which actions give them the most rewards. They come in a huge variety of colors, too. Genuine leather, handmade, comfy, and stylish! There are many colors to choose from and each is lovingly crafted with riveted strap ends, premium hardware, and padded sheepskin linings. These cute collars come with matching bowties in a variety of colors and patterns. These collars are also machine washable. Reversible Dog Harness A comfortable, supportive, and secure harness can help your new GSD puppy learn good manners while showing off her unique style. This harness comes in a range of sizes to be sure your pup is covered at every stage. Sturdy construction accompanies lightweight materials and stellar design choices for a top-notch harness option. This is a low-cost harness option with all the safety of the more expensive brands. Reflective materials and bright colors help keep your pup visible and safe, even on evening walks around the neighborhood. Great colors, sturdy construction, and a strong clip make this leash a good choice for any age GSD. The padded handle is a nice touch, while the smoothly rotating clip helps keep tangles at bay. Here are some of our favorite puppy training aids to get you started on the right paw. JdPet Washable Puppy Pads While most GSD parents want to housetrain their pups to go potty outside, there are some good reasons to potty train a pup to use an indoor bathroom option, too. We like the washable, leak-proof, and waterproof reusable pads for this situation. They are environmentally friendly, keeping disposable pads out of landfills or clogging sewage and septic systems. Get a few of these absorbent, washable pee pads for your GSD puppy and save a lot of money down the line. Solimo Super Absorbent Puppy Pads Washable pee pads might not be a good option for all homes, so disposable wee pads are still a decent choice. These potty-training pads are super absorbent, unscented, and are available in big or small packs, depending on your needs. The artificial grass is easy to clean and the catchall bottom just needs a quick spray with the hose to stay fresh. HoAoOo Pet Training Clicker Training clickers are an excellent way to train pups and older dogs to associate the clicking sound with a reward. This reduces caloric intake later on, as the click becomes the reward instead of a mouthful of treats. These clickers come with a handy wrist strap and are small enough to fit in a pocket, too. Tackle problems head-on with the right cleaning supplies. The pooper scooper. No more bending, stooping, and straining yourself to clean up the yard. This long-handled and strong scoop can pick up even the most impressive lawn apples your pup leaves in his wake. We love the slim design and the fact it hooks right onto the leash. The integrated waste bag section lets you place a whole roll inside. They will break down completely because they have no plastic. There are no dyes or other chemicals either, making these poo scoop bags even cooler. High fives all around, folks. These powerful little proteins are the products of bacteria—the good kind—and do one heck of a job fighting odors. This one even works on stains! Chemical-free, non-toxic, and powerful cleaning is right at your fingertips. Used by breeders, boarders, and vets alike, this powerful cleaner is an awesome ally in the fight against pet odors. It can even take out old, impregnated smells that have been around for years. Final Thoughts By now you should have a complete list of everything you need for a new German Shepherd puppy. Be sure to ask your vet for their recommendations as well.

They are superb with kids and very much compatible with other pets in the house. They are big and their tail is strong, so keep your breakable belongings away from the reach of that helicopter wag. They are great personalities for a pet but maintaining them is no joke. Bookmark this page which lists down cool tips to take care of a Golden Retriever. To prevent it from matting and to reduce the shedding, you must brush it daily. If you do this from an early age, they get used to it and they actually look forward to it. Not only that. While you brush them, watch out for scabs, cysts, scratches and bumps and if it does not go in a day or two, visit the vet. Wrap some wet cotton gauze around your finger and then wipe the inside of your puppy's ears and ear flap. Do it every alternate day and if you notice wax buildup or discharge or foul smell, take it to the vet, do not delay. When their nails start clicking the ground, it is a sign that your boy or girl needs trimming. Active dogs need fewer trims as per vets. It can bleed and it is very painful too. Also, do not cut the nail in one go. Go slow and if you see a circle on the trimmed surface, stop there and then because that is the quick. Never use a human toothpaste because they are very toxic for dogs. Make sure that your fur-child goes on a brisk walk, plays around at least for 30 minutes twice a day. Play fetch, take it for a swim if he loves water. They must have a place to retreat if they feel low or nervous. But never make it an area of punishment as that will stress them out. Teach them basic commands. Nowadays, we also have pet friendly cafes, so take them there. Not just pets, dogs should also know other humans besides you. They must know that people wearing attires unlike yours are also humans they need to be civil with. Do take them to crowded places to take away that fear and so that they get accustomed to loud noises as well. Fast cars and bikes, all these things scare them if they are not used to it. It is the same as human babies. Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. They crave human attention and affection, the more the better! Often, they will sit by your feet and lean into you or will paw at you to keep petting them. Leaving your Golden alone too long might make him depressed, or could cause unwanted behaviours such as chewing, excessive barking, and other destructive behaviour. But, keep in mind that you are everything to your Golden Retriever and they want to spend their time with you. A high-quality diet is a must for these dogs, as they can easily develop skin problems such as allergies, and they can easily become overweight. Goldens love food, and will eat anything!! It is important to keep control and monitor their food intake so that they do not become overweight. It is certainly not an easy thing to do when they look at you with their sad puppy dog eyes begging for food every time you eat. The biggest mistake you can make is feeding them from the table. I can attest to this because I used to do it! My dog became slightly overweight, and it was a struggle to shed the pounds off of her. Give Them Space Goldens are labelled as a medium to large-sized breed. Breed standards state that adult Goldens will typically weigh between lbs female , and lbs male. Some adults can weigh more or less depending on genetics. Because of their large size, they need room to move. Goldens are not meant to be outside dogs all the time, they would rather spend time with their humans inside than be outside by themselves. Having a yard for them to run and play is beneficial, but when given enough exercise and outdoor time, Goldens can also do well in apartment living. Just make sure that your house or apartment is large enough to accommodate them. Keep Them Beautiful One thing is for certain of this breed, and that is they shed!!! Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful long coat, which is actually a double-coat. Meaning it consists of a thick soft undercoat and a coarser topcoat. The undercoat is what sheds heavily in the spring and fall, and there is moderate shedding throughout the rest of the year. A Goldens double-coat offers protection from the elements, keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Regular brushing is a must to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny, and to minimize shedding. Bathing should be done regularly as well, and since Goldens love water it should be easier to do. Because of their floppy ears, Goldens are prone to getting ear infections. Weekly ear cleaning is recommended to keep their ears free of dirt and debris and to prevent infections. Golden Retrievers are beautiful, and they know it and love to show it off. It is up to their owners to keep them beautiful. Grooming a Golden Retriever does not have to be difficult, you can easily learn to groom them yourself at home to save some money. Socialize Them Golden Retrievers are naturally social. They love nothing more than being taken for a walk and meeting new people and other dogs. Known for their friendly and gentle nature, Goldens will get along with all animals and all people. Now as an adult she continues this with the people that she knows. She will also go up to strangers and sit on their feet and wait to be petted. She loves the attention that she gets. After meeting someone, or another dog she usually gets very happy and excited. I would suggest taking your Golden everywhere with you, take them to the park, for car rides, let them meet new people and dogs. Let them experience new things and you will have a happy dog. Take Them Swimming Natural born swimmers, to say that Goldens love water is an understatement! Especially on a hot summer day, Goldens will love to go in any water source they can find. Some owners have Golden Retrievers that enjoy rolling around and getting dirty in mud puddles, I am lucky enough to not be one of those owners. Swimming is a great form of exercise for your Golden Retriever, so take them with you to a dog-friendly beach or other water spot and have a game of fetch in the water. Provide Mental Stimulation Because they are such intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers are easy to train. They are eager to please their owner, especially when a treat is involved for being a good dog. In order to keep them from getting bored, and becoming destructive, they should be given plenty of mental stimulation. Golden Retrievers are happier and healthier, and more behaved when they are given mental stimulation on a daily basis. This can be done by teaching your dog basic commands and tricks, playing games with them, and providing enough exercise. An example of mental stimulation right now for my dog Ellie is when we are out walking she loves to go into the creek at several spots along the trail and hunt for frogs. She is so excited when she sees one and tries to catch it. They are basically big teddy bears. Craving human attention and affection is what they do and if that means jumping onto your lap and snuggling up with you, then that is what they will do. I remember when Ellie was a puppy I did not want her on the couch. I even tried to put tinfoil on the couch to deter her away from it. How long do you think that lasted?? Maybe a week or less. She would take a running leap and jump onto the couch and realize how comfortable it was, and just stay there. Nothing I could do about it, it was just easier to give in. Now I share a couch with her. She has her side, I have mine. Some Goldens live longer than the average, with many of them living up to 14 or 15 years. Genetics, lifestyle, environment, nutrition and spay or neuter status can all contribute to the health of your Golden. In order to keep them healthy and to ensure a long life with your devoted best friend, there are things you need to do such as: Provide a nutritious high-quality diet. Provide plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. Keep your Golden at an ideal weight and watch food intake to prevent obesity. Look for any signs of illness and medical problems, and get regular vet check-ups. Play with them, and show them plenty of love. Provide regular grooming to keep them clean and healthy. They may bark at a stranger at the door, but will soon wag their tail and flash their friendly smile at them. They love people way too much to be effective as a guard dog. If someone were to break into their home, a Golden would rather lick them to death than show any form of aggression. The Golden Retriever especially needs a lot of love and attention in order to be happy. They value the time spent with you, and any dog owner knows that the time spent with their beloved Golden Retriever is never enough. A Golden Retriever quickly steals your heart and becomes your best friend. Their beauty both inside and out becomes addicting that most owners of this beautiful breed usually own more than one. Keep in mind that if you let a Golden be a Golden, by letting them do what they love such as meeting new people and going swimming, then you will be rewarded with a happy dog. How do you take care of your Golden Retriever to ensure their happiness? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you. Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. January 24, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? What does it take to be considered ideal for a family dog? How do you know if the Golden Retriever is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Golden Retrievers! Bred in the highlands of Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth in the mid to late s, Goldens are a cross between a Yellow Retriever and an extinct dog breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel. Lord Tweedmouth wanted the ideal gundog to accompany him during fowl hunting and be able to withstand the rugged terrain and rainy conditions. Aside from being able to retrieve fowl, Lord Tweedmouth wanted an even-tempered dog to have at home when not hunting. And so, the Golden Retriever was born. Later in the s, they soon became a popular breed amongst American families when President Gerald Ford had a Golden named Liberty as his family dog. Golden Retrievers, like their name states, are golden! Their luxurious coats come in a variety of light to dark shades, ranging from light like the white Golden Retriever or English Cream to dark golden colors, even close to chocolate. Their coats feature feathering down their backs, chest, belly, hindquarters, and tails. Goldens have soft expressions combined with floppy expressive ears that give them a puppy-like appearance even as adults. Another thing to note of the Golden Retriever is that those fluffy coats are actually what are known as double coats. A strong water repellant coat on top coupled with a dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This all means these pups can be heavy shedders! What are Golden Retrievers Personalities like? There is something to be said about being named a perfect family dog. The Golden Retriever breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and gentle. If brought into a home with children, your Golden Retriever puppy will be a great addition for help introducing your new Golden Retriever pup to your kids and how to play together, check out our blog! But being a great family dog doesn't mean they are easy! Goldens have lots of energy which can come out in more jumping and being more mouthy, especially as puppies. Check our training tips for raising a well-mannered Golden at the end of this blog! Two to three daily walks are a must, and throw in fun activities like hiking or going for a swim, your pup will stay golden! Golden Retrievers are eager to please type of breed. They generally have happy go lucky demeanors which lends itself to affection and friendliness, including toward strangers. If you wanted a pup that could eventually become a service dog, a Golden Retriever is a great choice and make for excellent working pups! As a high-energy breed, Golden Retrievers do best in a home that will provide them ample access to romp around. Homes with fenced in yards or access to a park or field on a daily basis where they can run and fetch to their hearts content are the best environment for Goldens! These pups, with consistent early socialization, can adapt and thrive to living in a home with other dogs, or pets, and children! They love to play and make great playmates. That being said, their social nature can lead to dependencies on their owners and family. Golden Retrievers may develop separation anxiety if left alone and not properly trained from an early age. Golden Retrievers may also contract heart disease called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS that with early diagnosis and treatment can allow for a regular life-span. When you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you are working with a reputable breeder that cares for the health quality of the dogs they breed. Take advantage of that natural drive and eagerness to please by setting foundations at home. Start your puppy a regular daily puppy schedule to create structured routines in the home. Include consistent feeding, nap, play and obedience training times throughout the day to help your Golden pup learn what to expect and build confidence at home. During their puppy training focus on their obedience commands to help your puppy learn to look to you for guidance, build their communication with you, and solidify a trusting relationship! Since Golden Retrievers love to work, positive reinforcement and food rewards will be valuable motivators to get your puppy focused and listening. In-person and online puppy training programs will walk you through how to teach the commands, exercises to help your puppy learn them, and troubleshoot when your puppy needs it! Teach Your Golden Retriever How to Greet New People and Dogs While their open friendly disposition will help your puppy make new friends where ever they go, make sure to teach your puppy the right way to do so! Some overly energetic and friendly pups can get excitable around new people and dogs. That can result in some unwanted whining, lunging, and jumping. When done correctly, socialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on those common over-excited behaviors when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer or join an online puppy training school to help set you up for the best success! Do Calming Obedience Exercises With all their high-energy and high-drive, teaching your Golden how to be calm in everyday scenarios will help tame that wild side! Great calming exercises include having your puppy learn to wait for their food bowl and in thresholds each time you enter or leave a space. This also extends to activities like fetch. Goldens are a natal for this! This can be done simply by having your pup drop the toy when they return and pausing for a few moments giving them a chance to settle before throwing it again for them to retrieve. Teach Them to Walk Nicely on Leash Many high-energy pups have a tendency to lunge toward exciting new things! Couple that with a social nature, and you may encounter that your Golden Retriever puppy will start to pull on leash. Focus on teaching them proper leash manners including how to walk in Heel position and how to pass other people and pups without lunging, jumping and excited whining, barking or nipping at them! That can greatly help possible bad encounters with strangers and other dogs while teaching them great habits! Did you recently bring home a Golden Retriever puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Golden Retrievers were first bred in the early s in Scotland as hunting dogs. Although they are still used for hunting, Goldens also excel at many other activities, including search and rescue jobs and guide work. They require ample exercise—swimming in particular is a great outlet for their endless energy, and most Goldens love it! Their beautiful coats require brushing and in some climates a summer trim may be in order. Goldens are intelligent, understanding, and eager to please their families. The Golden Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Golden. By knowing about health concerns specific to Golden Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Golden Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Golden Retrievers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Golden looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Golden is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Golden Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Golden Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Golden is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Golden Retrievers Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your Golden will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Golden Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Golden Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Golden Retrievers than other breeds. The sooner these tumors are surgically removed, the better. Unfortunately, mast cell tumors often look very similar to other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, many of which are not harmful. Therefore, all suspicious lumps should be tested and surgically removed as soon as possible. Many cancers are cured by surgical removal , so early detection is critical. Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Golden is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Golden Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Goldens. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. Glaucoma, an eye condition that affects Golden Retrievers and people too, is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea the clear front part of the eye , and redness in the whites of the eyes. Pain is rarely noticed by pet owners though it is frequently there and can be severe. People who have certain types of glaucoma often report it feels like being stabbed in the eye with an ice pick! Glaucoma is a medical emergency. Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your Golden is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. If untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Allergies, swimming, overgrowth of hair in the ear canals, and accumulation of earwax can all predispose your dog to ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Goldens are very often afflicted by allergies, which can cause itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. The earlier we diagnose and treat these ailments, the less discomfort and pain your pet will suffer. Be sure to call us if you notice him scratching or shaking his head, a foul odor from the ears, or if his ears seem painful to the touch. By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, we also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness. Most ear infections tend to recur until we work together to control the underlying cause. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Golden Retrievers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some Golden Retrievers inherit a heart condition known as aortic stenosis. This disease causes a partial obstruction to the blood flow leaving the heart, which means the heart must work harder to pump enough blood to the body. If the condition is severe, your dog may faint or seem to run out of energy during exercise. He may also have difficulty breathing, cough frequently, or have stunted growth. Golden Retrievers are also especially prone to a life-threatening heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in which the heart becomes so large, thin, and weak that it can no longer effectively pump blood to the body. As this problem advances, your pet may act weak or tired, faint or collapse, breathe in a labored way, or cough. If indicated, treatment includes medication and dietary supplementation. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Goldens have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Bleeding Disorders Your Golden Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test as we may not otherwise know whether your pet has hemophilia until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, and other behavioral changes. Treatment is usually as simple as replacement hormones given in the form of a pill. Taking Care of Your Golden Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Golden live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. Golden Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She excels at dog sports like flyball, agility, dock diving, and obedience events. She has a passion for water, and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Golden Retriever needs help. Read the full disclosure here. They rely on you for everything and their health and well-being is well and truly in your hands. In order for your Golden to live as long and as healthy and fit a life as possible, you need to first educate yourself on how to care for them properly and build this knowledge into actions and routines. A balanced and nutritious diet, regular exercise , grooming and regular veterinary health checks are all essential parts of maintaining good health and quality of life. All of these are under your control. By taking steps to do the best for your Goldens health and monitoring their well-being regularly, you can prevent illnesses happening, avoiding pain and discomfort for your Golden and vets bills and heartache for you. At first, being a caring and responsible owner can seem a daunting and herculean task, but breaking it down into little manageable routines really does make it easy. Health Care Routines For Your Golden Retriever You should keep a diary and set up daily, weekly, quarterly and yearly routines to make sure every need is met and your Golden is well looked after. Example routines would be: Daily: Provision of nutritious food and clean water, regular and sufficient exercise, general health check via bodily inspections. Weekly: Inspection of ears, eyes and oral health and hygiene. Comprehensive grooming and nail care. Quarterly: Bath your Golden. In the past, any more often than this was bad for their coat quality and skin. Scheduled visits to a veterinarian and canine dentist, perhaps alternating every 3 months so two visits to each per year. Yearly: Vaccination top-ups. Following is a brief discussion of areas you need to pay attention to in order to care for your Golden well. Particularly during their puppy years they can get themselves into all sorts of trouble around your home and garden so you have to undertake a certain amount of puppy-proofing your home : Fence off swimming pools or ponds in your yard as they will get in there but being so small they may not be able to swim well and could find it impossible to get out unaided. Research the plants and flowers you have in your home and garden as there are in excess of one hundred plants known to be toxic to dogs and Goldens love a good chew! Remove or make safe any sharp items in your home that your Golden may play with, rub against or walk over in their playing. Hide away any electrical cables because a dogs sharp teeth and electricity are a particularly dangerous combination. Goldens can learn to open simple storage units and household chemicals therein are extremely dangerous to your dog. For now, just pretend you are an inquisitive dog, tour your home and garden and imagine just how they could get themselves into trouble in any of the areas they have access to. Then take steps to make those areas safe. Diet, Nutrition and Water Intake Dogs in the wild would hunt and scavenge, eating a wide variety of different foods, taking care of their own diet and ensuring they get all the nutrients they need. Modern dogs no longer hunt and scavenge and instead rely on their owners to provide them everything they need. You need to research, find and provide a good scientifically formulated diet to match their very particular nutritional requirements. You should note that a puppy has different nutritional requirements to an active adult dog, that is again different to a very senior dog who may have somewhat slowed down. There are dog foods balanced to meet a dogs different needs for each stage of their lives and activity levels. One thing you really need to watch out for with Golden Retrievers is over-feeding. And a Golden will never say no, they just love to eat! So please be mindful of their food intake and monitor their weight. No dog should be overweight. It can lead to joint problems, which leads to mobility problems, as well as diseases of their internal organs which can really shorten their lives. As well as good food, your Golden needs access to a good, clean and fresh supply of water every day. Dehydration is a real problem, as is over-hydrating in some dogs. And any drastic changes in their intake usually signifies an underlying health problem and you should seek the advice of your vet. Exercise Golden Retrievers are a sporting breed, bred for working and hence considered a high energy breed. To keep them fit and healthy and to occupy their minds you will need to provide them with lots of opportunity for structured exercise. Notice I said structured exercise! This means you cannot simply let them out into your yard and hope they take care of exercise themselves. They will walk around a bit and mostly just spend their time begging to be let back in with you. You have to plan structured exercise such as running, playing fetch or swimming. You have to take them out for a minimum of 45 minutes of exercise per day on top of their normal walks, and preferably with a good 2 hour bout of longer exercise at least once per week. The five minute rule is that a puppy needs no more than 5 minutes structured exercise per day for every month they have been alive. So a 4 month old puppy needs just 20 minutes, a 5 month old puppy 25 minutes etc. So take it easy with a puppy. Training Just how important training is for your Goldens quality of life cannot be overstated. A dog that listens to and responds to just a few well-trained commands can be kept infinitely safer than an untrained dog. So you should provide your Golden with a decent firm yet soft bed and a nice comfortable lining for their crate if you use one. If you have a yard and your Golden will be expected to spend any length of time outside you should provide a form of shelter so they can keep off the cold wet floor in winter and get out of the sun in summer. There are many options for suitable kennels and many of them are reasonably priced. If you fail to keep up a regular schedule of brushing, their coats very quickly become knotted and then matted and these are all but impossible to remove without the help of a pair of scissors. Regular brushing also helps to keep your Goldens coat clean and removes dead hair. When it comes to bathing, Golden Retrievers have a double coat and natural oils that help waterproof them so bathing too often is actually bad for their coats…at least it always used to be. Just be sure if you do wish to bathe them often that you research the shampoo used and pick one suited to regular bathing for Goldens. Human shampoo will never do as it will strip their oils and is too acidic for their skin and will irritate them. And cheap dog shampoos will strip the oils too. You kinda get what you pay for. To keep their coat healthy and prevent irritation you need to remove all the soap. Note: Click here for a selection of the best dog brushes suitable for your golden Nail Care Depending on how often your golden walks on hard abrasive surfaces, they will probably need their nails trimmed every 10 or 12 weeks. But if your golden is constantly walking pavements and roads, they may never need a trim due to concrete and tarmacs abrasive, nail-file like effect. Anyway, you should regularly check your dogs paws. This can be very uncomfortable for your dog and if it gets out of control even painful. You can quite easily trim your dogs nails at home , or you can take them to the vet where they will do the procedure for you. If you do wish to do it at home, I recommend taking your dog to the vet first and asking for advice on how to do it, being shown and learning from the pros rather than risking it alone from a book. Better safe than sorry! Look inside to make sure they are a healthy looking color, not bright red and inflamed. Also check for lots of small little grainy looking brown dots. These are the droppings of ear mites and a sign of a parasitic infection which should be treated ASAP. Dental Care Dental hygiene is an often overlooked area of dog care by many people but is very important. Much like us, dogs can suffer with tooth decay, cracked teeth, gum disease and a build up of plaque and tartar. Not only does this detract from the overall good looks of your dog, it can be quiet uncomfortable, sometimes painful and can lead to more severe problems if left untreated. So you should regularly check their teeth and gums yourself, make use of available chews that help to clean their teeth and take your dog to a canine dentist every 6 to 12 months. Try to treat your dogs teeth as good as you would treat your own. Parasitic problems Fleas, ticks and other parasites can be a real problem for dogs, leading to many problems ranging from mild skin irritation, to extreme sores and infections, and in the most extreme cases dramatic weight loss, tape worms and Lyme disease. So you should regularly check for parasites in your Golden which is very easy to do if you are sticking to a regular schedule of brushing their coats. Simply spend an extra minute to inspect closer to their skin looking for ticks, fleas or small dots droppings in their fur which would indicate the presence of parasites. Treatment for fleas and ticks can be administered at home as there are many treatments for this available over the counter. Try to make it every 6 months, but once per year as a minimum. This will allow your vet to become familiar with your dog which makes spotting changes easier for them. And it gives them a chance to spot problems early that you without an untrained eye may not pick up on. As always, prevention is better than cure and if there is ever a problem then catching it as early as possible is vital for more effective treatment and minimal pain and discomfort for your pet. Regular visits to the vet allow this early discovery. You will also need to see your vet to have your puppy vaccinated. There are many diseases, some fatal, that can be prevented easily with a course of vaccinations. Distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis as well as the infamous rabies can all be kept at bay with vaccines. A puppy will require shots starting at 6 weeks with a course of various shots taking them up to 18 weeks or so. The rabies shot is administered at about 6 months of age and after this your Golden will require just a yearly top up to maintain protection. Highly Recommended Training Course For a detailed program to follow in the form of a video library, including a step-by-step roadmap for raising a puppy from 8 weeks old all the way to a confident, well-trained and happy adult dog, you could do a lot worse than checking out The Online Dog Trainer. This program contains over follow along videos of an NZ SPCA endorsed professional dog trainer, covering all aspects of dog training, solving behavior problems in real life scenarios, explaining the theory, giving practical advice and more. You can see him getting real results in real-life consultations with his clients, so if you ever have a behavior problem you need to solve, you can follow along for almost guaranteed results. Of course, we are developing a fantastic training resource here at TotallyGoldens. Click here to learn more at TheOnlineDogTrainer. Caring For Your Golden Retriever Final Thoughts Regular grooming will keep your Golden retriever not only looking at their absolute best, but also with your help and intervention it keeps them healthy and disease free too. You May Also Like.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. Dubai Once again 'Humiiation at the Paws of your Labrador'.I know it well,many of us do! You are right at the time where your puppy training ,which has been going extremely well suddenley seems to have been completely forgotten and the Teenager version of your dog emerges. This is the time where you really need to stick harder than ever with your training. They are getting more independent at they same time as they are getting bigger and stronge and it can be really challenging. I went to a second set of basic obedience classes at this age just practice focus around distractions. We haven't got children so it was very easy to follow advice I was given about keeping temptation out of reach.When he did make off with something we didn't make a game of it,we just swapped for a treat.Sorry you were embarrassed at class but truly it's so common albeit frustrating when you KNOW they can do the excercise perfectly.Are you working with food rewards? If so I would really up the ante in the rewards ,take something super tasty and when Dexter used to decide not to cooperate I just used to move away from the rest of the dogs to where we had more space,ergo less distraction and try and get his focus back there before moving closer again. Good luck,keep,with it,she sounds a lovely dog x. Size The average female black Lab grows to a height of between 21 and 24 inches from the floor at the withers, or shoulders, although even a purebred dog can be bigger or smaller. Males reach a height of 22 to 25 inches. By the age of 6 months, most dogs reach approximately 75 percent of their full adult height, so your 7-month-old black Lab should be between 15 and 18 inches tall. Weight A healthy adult black Lab female weighs 55 to 70 pounds and a male 65 to 80 pounds. By the age of 6 months, black Lab puppies reach approximately two-thirds of their adult weight, so a dog of 7 months should be in this range or slightly heavier. At 70 percent of the average female adult weight, your female black Lab puppy should weigh from 40 to 50 pounds, while a male puppy would weigh between 45 and 55 pounds. Paws Black Lab puppies go through a stage from the age of 4 months to around 7 months, when their legs appear to grow much faster than the rest of their bodies. This gives them the look of a teenager with long, gangly legs and big paws. Her paws, though, are likely to be full adult size, which will make them look larger because they're out of proportion with the rest of her young body. As a large-breed dog, Labs commonly reach maturity at around 12 to 18 months; some take even longer to develop. A nonadult black Lab may look fairly skinny and have the appearance of slinking along like a cat when she walks: though her height is almost that of an adult dog, she has months to go before she fills out. More Articles. What commands should my six month puppy know? And much more! Average 6 month old Lab size? It seems amazing that the little fluff ball you bought home just four months ago should be so big. And bouncy! But I know you want an answer, so as a very rough guide, many 6 month old lab puppies will weigh around 50lbs. The remainder of his growth, another lbs or so will take place more slowly over the next 6 months. What should my black, yellow, or chocolate Labrador weigh at six months? People often ask if there is any difference between the different colors with regard to weight and size. The answer is kind of. Working type American or field bred Labradors are often lighter at six months than show type English or bench bred Labradors. And in the UK at least, most field bred Labradors are either black the majority or yellow including fox red. Most not all, but most chocolate Labs in the UK are show or pet bred Labradors and tend to be more heavily built. There is a softness to his features that will last another couple of months or so. How much food does a 6 month old Lab need? How much food your puppy needs will depend on how much he weighs and what condition he is in. Have a look at our puppy feeding chart and also at the instructions on the packet of food that you are using. If your puppy is a little on the skinny side give him a tiny bit more food than recommended and if he is looking a bit plump, a little bit less. Consistent overfeeding will make a puppy fat. Consistent underfeeding will see him lose weight. How often should I feed my six month old puppy? Your 6 month old Lab can drop down from three meals a day to two without any problems. This means that you will be giving the same amount of food as before, but in two larger meals instead of three smaller ones. So, if your pup gets diarrhoea when you switch to twice daily feed, skip a meal to let his tummy settle, then go back to three meals a day for a few days. When you next try going down to two meals a day, give him two small meals to begin with and increase the meal size gradually over the next few days How far should my six month old be walked every day? If you are not familiar with it, the five minute rule says that a puppy needs five minutes of exercise per day for each month of his life. Like many young Labs, adorable six month old Myles loves everyone: by Ericka from the USA Most experts would divide that into two sessions. This refers to formal walks, not playing in the garden or messing about with other dogs. And the reason for that caution is that your puppy is still growing and the growth plates in his joints are still vulnerable to damage. So my advice would be to avoid hard exercise until your puppy is well past his first birthday and then to build up gradually over a period of several weeks. Sexual maturity in Labradors Puppies become sexually mature before they are physically mature and long before they are mentally adults. Some six month old puppies are capable of breeding. And definitely should not be allowed to do so. Apart from the ethical and moral implications, it may be physically harmful to breed from such a young female. Many female Labradors will have their first season sometime between six months and a year, so this is something you need to be looking out for. Neutering Some of you will have already had your 6 month pup neutered, others will be thinking about doing so in the next few months. If you decide against neutering, this is a good point in time to review the security on your property and make sure it is thoroughly dog proof. Labradors are surprisingly agile and can often jump higher, and dig deeper, than you imagine. Beautiful Poppy at just seven months old: by Karen R from Germany Once sexually mature, many a Labrador, particularly but not only males, will make more effort to explore beyond the boundaries of your property. And if you have a female in season, other enterprising males will do their best to find a way in! Whatever your intentions, the time for breeding is a long way off right now. Bear in mind your dog is nowhere near grown up. In many ways he is still a baby. Has my 6 month old Lab finished teething? Most puppies have shed the last of their baby teeth by six months of age. And will have cut many of their adult teeth by this point too. Most will have all their adult teeth within the next month or so. This is the point at which most young dogs start to lose their fear of losing you. This has some big implications for those that exercise their young dogs off leash in open country, where there are temptations such as wild birds and animals to chase. Which brings us to the next question. As a trainer of working retrievers I can tell you that I have had six month old Labradors that were quite advanced with their training and others that had barely started. All reached the same standard eventually. However, it is important to get started with training now. And while there is no set standard your puppy should have reached, it is definitely time to get some safety cues installed. What commands should my six month old puppy know? Most six month old pups have only quite basic obedience and are not yet reliably obedient when there are lots of distractions about. While many six month olds will sit when asked, and come when called in the house and yard. And a lot the majority of six month old Labradors are still pulling on the lead. Professional or serious hobby trainers aside, this is fairly normal. Most importantly, you need to focus on proofing these cues against distraction. Come The come cue, or recall, is important so that your dog can be allowed safely off leash and recalled if any hazards appear. You can find information on teaching recall here: How to teach a basic recall Even if you have made quite good progress with recall, now is quite a good point at which to be thinking about the about turn walk this is a technique to prevent your dog from getting too far away from you on walks. This is especially important as he grows bigger. Labradors are strong and often friendly dogs. This makes pulling on the lead very common as your puppy does his best to engage every passing stranger in a game. Gorgeous Charlie enjoying a run at six months of age — he also appears in our feature at the top of the page: by Julie T from Cornwall UK I have seen grown ups pulled clean off their feet by large dogs on leash. Being pulled off your feet, or losing control of your dog at the roadside is a very real risk. Many young Labradors are very friendly and while this is a great thing overall, it can cause some problems with training at this age. I mentioned proofing earlier, and proofing is the process which teaches our dogs to come away from other dogs or people. And proofing is the way to succeed. The main problem with proofing is that it takes time and help. You might also find proofing Labrador obedience helpful. What is the best way to train my 6 month old? Training methods are changing. We are in something of a new era with regard to dog training methods and there are now plenty of good trainers who can show you how to train your dog effectively without fear or pain. Behavior problems Most six month old pups are through the housetraining phase, though there may be very occasional accidents if a your dog is left alone for a lot longer than usual. Female dogs may have an occasional accident during their first season too, but these are usually isolated incidents. What about chewing? If you are expecting chewing to stop at the same time as teething coming to an end, you may be disappointed. We look at destructive chewing in more detail in this article , but it can be at its worst between 6 and 9 months of age. Which brings us to a common question Can I de-crate my six month old Lab? It seems mean to shut him away at bedtime. Why not give him the freedom of the kitchen during the night? Well, this can work. But often it does not and results either in a bad chewing problem or occasionally, in a relapse in house training. You can find out more in this article which includes detailed de-crating instructions. The other big issue for many puppy parents with six month olds, is excitable behavior. Particularly jumping up, and sometimes nipping How do I stop my six month old Labrador from jumping up? Jumping up is a common problem in young labs. These are friendly and affectionate dogs who enjoy close contact and like to greet their friends up close! You and your visitors not only tolerate it, but actually reinforce it by petting the puppy as he does it. Or rather over- excitement. This is the age at which excitable behavior can become quite a challenge again. Partly because the dog is now physically bigger, stronger, and more difficult to control. Now, more than ever, you need your dog to listen and respond to your voice. Playing safely More often than not, excitable behavior that has got out of control, started out as a game. However, if you are struggling a bit, you are not on your own. Drop into the forum and say hello to all the other puppy parents.

Scroll down for LIVE puppy cams! However, if mama needs a little help, we are very close by monitoring the process to assist removing the sac or stimulating a puppy to breathe. When mama has finished her clean up, we remove puppy for a quick weight, add an ID collar, and treat the umbilical stump with a disinfectant. For the first few days after birth, we practically have to drag mama away from her babies to get her to go out to potty. After the first few days, mama begins to leave the puppies for brief periods of time—usually she lies just outside the box on the cool floor—she needs an occasional break from the higher temperature that is so necessary for her babies. We also have a heating pad area the puppies can choose to move to if they need more warmth when mama is away. Puppies are little heat seeking missiles—they have heat sensors on the sides of their noses. This heat seeking instinct guides them to mama to nurse, to each other to puppy pile and to warm areas in their nest. We also add one additional step by presenting the puppies with a new scent stimulation daily. This series of brief, specific exercises we perform are in addition to our normal daily handling of the puppies as we weigh them, trim toenails, move them to clean their area, etc. One Week Old: The puppies continue to spend all their time nursing or sleeping. During this week, we give them their first toenail trim and continue to weigh each puppy two-three times a day. We monitor weight gain carefully, since that is our first indication that a puppy might need a little extra boost of supplemental formula. Puppies generally double their weight in their first week of life! These rails originated on farms to protect piglets—hence the name pig rail. Puppies often gravitate to the outer edges of the box and wedge themselves down in a corner. Since mama is spending most of her time in the box with her babies all around her, she often leans back against the walls and falls deeply asleep as she recovers from her labor and delivery. The rail stops her from crushing or smothering a baby that has burrowed in behind her along the edge. We remove the rails when the puppies are about three weeks old and are strong enough to raise a ruckus if they get trapped. Towards the end of the first week, we see their eyelids begin to become more defined and separate, and their eyelashes grow longer. By the beginning of the second week, the eyes are starting to open in the inner corner and working to the outer corner of the eyes. By days old, their eyes will be open. Two Weeks Old: The puppies eyes are all open now and their ears will be opening in the next few days. At this age puppies do not experience fear, so the startle is not fear driven. In these next few weeks before they begin experiencing fear around weeks of age, we will mildly stress them with noises to build their recovery response. We are carefully watching the intensity of the startle and the speed of recovery—our goal is to elicit a very mild startle followed by a rapid recovery. By repeating the noise several times in a row, the startle response will diminish and go away and the recovery will become immediate. This will help the puppies be stable to new sounds and experiences as they grow into adult dogs. The puppies continue to gain weight at a remarkable rate—often several ounces a day. Mama is still stimulating puppies to potty and cleaning up completely after—she keeps the nest fastidiously clean. Their awareness of their surroundings is awakening. We start enriching their environment during this week—we generally remove the whelping box at this point to give them more room to explore, adding soft toys to give texture to their area. We place potty pads at the back of their area for the beginning of potty training, and we help define that potty area by adding sleeping beds, changing the bedding in the main area of their pen several times a day and leaving the soiled pads in the potty area. The puppies will gradually begin to follow the scent to the specific potty area, and in a matter of weeks they will regularly go to the designated potty area to eliminate. Four-Six Weeks Old: During these weeks we continue to add enrichment items to their area and also expand their area as they show signs of needing more room to move and explore. The puppies become more stable on their legs and start to interact with one another, play bowing, barking at one another, and noticing us. We have continued the weekly toenail trims and daily handling—touching paws, ears, body. At this time we increase our interactions with the puppies and spend more individual time with them. As the puppies continue to wake up and become more aware over the next several weeks, we will start our clicker training exercises, following our Puppy Culture protocols. Although the puppies are still nursing, during this time they are introduced to food. We start them with puppy formula, gradually adding in raw lamb and baby rice cereal, then softened kibble and diminishing the formula. Mama dog is usually tired of sharp teeth nursing and she pushes the puppies to weaning. She no longer lies down to nurse and only spends brief times in the pen with them cleaning them and checking on them—then out she jumps to lie just out of reach, keeping an eye on things, but no longer feeling as protective. At this point, she is fine to let the other older dogs interact with her babies, and she happily rejoins her guardian family once her puppies are eating solid food on their own. Seven-Nine Weeks Old: Weather permitting, puppies are introduced to the outside area through the doggy door and discover a whole new world of running, larger toys and obstacles, wind, sun, rain, the chickens, etc. Such fun times they have outside! They become proficient at diving through the doggy door, in and out all day. In the warmer months, we have a wading pool for them to play in, in fall and winter they chase leaves, dodge rain drops, and play in rain puddles. We welcome visitors once the puppies are six weeks old, and the puppies love meeting children, teens, and adults. At about eight weeks of age we do our temperament and structure evaluations and veterinarian check up. The big day arrives all too quickly that we make puppy allocations and at nine weeks old our puppies head off to new horizons, adventures, and wonderful lives with YOU! All rights reserved. By sharing knowledge and working together with other members of the ALAA, we can advance the health of the Australian Labradoodle. Membership in a professional organization ensures that you are working with a breeder who is invested in the breed, who abides by a Code of Ethics, and who will be here when you have questions or need support. We love what we do, and we want to do an exceptional job! We invest our time and resources into education, for us and for you! We continue to learn about health issues, breakthroughs in testing, puppy development, and socialization. We pass that information on to you. We are passionate about educating and helping new families become successful puppy parents. We look forward to partnering with you as you select your new family member! This keeps the health of the breed the top priority. There are different levels of health testing. Make sure you select a breeder who does all of the appropriate testing, not just some of it. She temperament tests all our puppies. There are 2 boys and 6 girls, and are apricot. Puppies will be mediums and are expected to weigh 30 to 35 lbs. Puppies will be going home the weekend of August 26 and

Cockapoo The original Doodle, the Cockapoo , is still a popular choice among those looking to adopt a littler dog. The loving loyalty of the Cocker Spaniel and the proud intelligence of the Poodle makes for one heck of a combo. The perfect canine companion, these gorgeous mutts fit nicely into just about every lifestyle. As one of the small Poodle mixes, moderate exercise needs, and lack of mouthiness, they even do well with apartment living. However, you will need to make plenty of time for these people-oriented pups. Maltipoo Highly sociable, clever, and cute as a button, Maltipoos are excellent for those looking for an absolutely allergy-friendly pal. They love kids, other dogs, and perfect strangers, too. That being said, these dogs can be a little on the loud side at times and will benefit from training and plenty of socialization to reduce this at times irritating behavior. Peekapoo For fans of playful pups, the Peekaboo could be the one. With a history almost as long as the beloved Cockapoo, these darling dogs, formed from regal Pekingese, make excellent lapdogs. While they will stick to their favorite person like the velcro pups they definitely are, they can also be energetic and plenty sporty, given the opportunity. One downside is that Peekapoos could end up inheriting that flat face that creates many of the health issues in their parent pups, but careful breeders are working to eliminate that problem. Pomapoo Known for their Spitz-like good looks all done up in miniature, the foxy Pomeranian passes plenty of its cuteness on to its Doodle offspring, along with that feisty, fun working-dog attitude. Great for inexperienced owners and perfect for fans of super small pups, the Pomapoo is generally a laid-back, happy kind of dog. The biggest issue with these pooches is that their companion animal nature makes them the kind of canines that suffer greatly from separation anxiety. They cannot be left alone for long periods. Schnoodle With two parent breeds that come in an assortment of sizes, the Schnoodle undoubtedly belongs on this list. Still, it can be included among the large Doodles, too, if a Standard Poodle were to be bred with a Giant Schnauzer. In terms of personality, Schnoodles are very terrier-like, which means they tend to be much more active than your average lapdog and so do especially well with outdoorsy families. Yorkipoo The Yorkshire Terrier may well give the Poodle a run for its money in the intelligence stakes making the delightful Yorkipoo a very smart dog indeed — which is great for training. Shihpoo Set your Shihpoo up on a velvet cushion, and they will adore you for life. On a serious note, though, these dogs are consummate lapdogs. As such, they love to be doted on and spoiled more than anything else in this world. With their larger-than-life personality and a tendency towards stubbornness, you might not get very far with trying to teach these dogs new tricks or making them into athletic companions. Still, their playful, funny nature will certainly earn them a firm place in your heart nevertheless. Chi-Poo Right at the smallest end of the Doodle spectrum, the Chi-Poo has all the character of the daring Chihuahua but, much to the relief of fans of the breed, far fewer of their associated health issues that come when toy breeds are made just way too toy. Chi-poos are also quite a bit more independent than most other smaller Poodle crosses, which makes them more adaptable to various home situations. They make great first-time pets and work as well in an apartment as they do in a house with a yard. That being said, they can be pretty energetic little so-and-sos, which is something you will need to keep in mind if you do decide to take on one of these lovely pups. Something else you will need to think about is that these dogs also generally require pretty regular grooming sessions. Westiepoo Westiepoos are some of the most social and loving dogs around. They are super fun, super easy to look after, super quick to train, and super to have in your home. The West Highland Terrier — Poodle mix contains the very best of both these excellent pups. They are fun, funny, active, and larger than life in their characters. That Terrier nature of theirs means Westies have a tendency towards both barking and prey-chasing behaviors. Yet, with their superior intelligence, these are things they can be trained out of. Pugapoo Pugs have recently become quite controversial for the issues they have with breathing due to those flat faces of theirs. Happily, though, when combined with the mightily different Poodle, this becomes far less of a problem. Crossing Pugs in this way with longer-nosed hounds is a way of preserving these quirky, cute, and comical dogs. Pugapoos undoubtedly make delightful pups who are loving and loyal as they are gorgeous. With very modest exercise needs, indeed, they are perfect little lapdogs. Doxiedoodle The thing about Daschhunds, one half of the darling Doxiedoodle , is that not only are they the sweetest little sausage-looking pups, but they vary massively in both appearance and temperament. What you will know for sure, though, is that they will be gorgeous, they will be smart, and they will be floofy little bundles of perky hound. Take care, though, as these dogs can grow larger than you might think. Bassetdoodle Otherwise known as Bassetoodles , Bassetdoodles are lesser-known Doodles for sure, but an interesting combination of breeds nonetheless. Like some of the other pups on this list, they are sometimes formed from Standard Poodles, making all-around larger dogs, so make sure that the breeder knows you are looking for a smaller-sized pup. These pooches tend to be calm, friendly, joyful, and yet slightly on the stubborn side too. They also often inherit a bit of a mischievous streak that keeps their owners very much on their toes. Bossi-Poo Boston Terriers are unique-looking dogs with plenty of heart to go alongside their distinctive features and markings. When coupled with the posh Poodle, you get the amusingly-named Bossi-Poo. Cavapoo Spaniels have long been dotted on dogs, and the Cavalier King Charles is no exception. With their cute faces, beautiful coats, and happy little natures, they make friends wherever they go. When the winning personality of the Spaniel is added to the smart, comedic nature of the smaller Poodle, magic truly does happen. Cavapoos really are some of the most popular Doodles around. Jack-a-Poo Another Doodle of many names, the Jack-a-poo , Jackadoodle, or Poo-Jack, is a bright and vivacious mutt who is super loving but requires a mite more care than some of the other Doods on this list. The reason for that is not their coat which tends to be short or slightly fluffy, but, either way, very manageable, but rather the fact they tend to be teeny firecrackers, filled with all the joys of life. While this makes them entertaining sidekicks, it does mean you have to have a fairly energetic nature ayourself to keep up with their antics. Aside from their distinctive features, these dogs are known for their alert, big-dog attitudes, playful personalities, bravery, and extreme love of people. For all these reasons and more, their offspring Papipoos make a unique and excellent pet choice. Poogle Admittedly not the most glamorous name in the world! A Boodle? A Beapoo? Friendly, curious, and hopelessly devoted to their families, Poogles make excellent pets for just about anyone. They get along with everyone, from kids to other pets. However, they do need plenty of socialization to counter that sometimes fairly high prey drive of theirs. With two intelligent parents, and given that these dogs are dedicated people pleasers, Corgipoos do well in the training stakes. The Corgi actually has a fascinating history. Said to be the companions of fairies, legend has it that they were first gifted, during the Viking era, to those who needed protection in their homes. So, as you can imagine, Corgipoos are great guard dogs in addition to being excellent companions. As one of the most popular and well-known of the Doodles, these tend to be the ones that many opt for. Plus, progressive generations of Goldendoodles have enabled them to be bred in more apartment-friendly sizes as small Poodle mixes. Photo used with permission. These dogs really have it all — a sociable nature, even temperament, high trainability, and gorgeous good looks. On the downside, these dogs blow coat and how! Beyond that, their large size means they need a bigger space to hang out in and more intensive exercise than smaller breeds. Enter the Mini or Toy Labradoodle… With their smaller size and tendency toward inheriting the Poodle coat, they are even more perfect than perfect. In that case, the Bernedoodle may well have caught your attention. While the Standard versions of these pups can be pretty giant, given that the Bernese Mountain Dog is classified as a large breed, smaller versions of the Bernie come from combining them with little Poodles. These have all the best of their qualities, often including their stunning tricolored coats, but in a much more manageable package size-wise. All small Poodle mixes make great dogs for the right owners, so the question should be not what is the best one but rather what is the best one for me. The dogs on this list differ significantly in terms of their appearance, temperament, energy levels, and care needs, among other things. What is the calmest small Poodle mix? While every dog is as totally unique in its specific traits as every person is, and so it can be tricky to judge how rambunctious they will be, Doods that combine the more giant breeds with Poodles tend to be among the calmest dogs. Pups bred to be companion animals also tend to be on the lower end of the energy spectrum compared to those originally used as work dogs, such as Terriers and Spaniels. What is the smallest Poodle mix? The smallest Poodle dogs are going to be a combination of two of the most miniature parents. While that will vary depending on individual animals, Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers tend to be high up on any smallest dog lists. So if you are looking for a totally teeny pup, then a Chi-Poo or Yorkipoo might be for you. Which Poodle mix is healthiest? Luckily, for Doodle fans everywhere, due to their more diverse mix of genes creating something known as hybrid vigor , small Poodle mixes tend to be far healthier than most pedigree pups. However, differences in health will come down to how the dogs were bred. Responsible Breeders health screen their animals to ensure that the possibility of genetic conditions being passed down to their offspring is much reduced. Miniature Doods are the ideal option for those looking for a more manageably-sized dog with all the spunk and personality of their often larger parent pups. Hopefully, the information included here has helped you narrow down your choices a little in your quest to find your new best friend. You Might Also Like. Are you a breeder? About this Breed Miniature and toy poodles are varieties of the poodle breed which originated in Germany in the 15th century. Small poodles are frequently used to create designer dogs like Schnoodles and Maltipoos with low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats. All poodles are highly intelligent and energetic, and need daily exercise and stimulation. Physical characteristics The Miniature Poodle is right in the middle of the Toy and Standard Poodle; the lifespan of these pups is around 15 years, their height is 11 to 14 inches, and their weight ranges from 12 to 20 pounds. The Toy Poodle has a similar coat to the Standard Poodle and normally stands at about 10 inches. Their weight can range between pounds. Grooming According to Vetstreet. These pups require grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Some Poodle owners learn to use clippers and do the job themselves, but most rely on professionals. Either way, this aspect of their grooming is essential. Without regular clipping, it could become matted and cause painful skin infections at the roots. Previous Slide. Although they are occasionally characterized as a finicky breed, miniature poodles are actually wonderful family dogs thanks to their smarts, their eager-to-please attitude, and their gentle demeanor with kids and other pets. They're an easy breed to train , low-allergen, and low-odor, so they fit in well with most homes and families. Though their low-shedding curly coats have the benefit of being nearly hypoallergenic , they do require lots of care and grooming. If you have the time and resources to dedicate to these peaceful pups, they make loving and loyal companions. Miniatures fall into the middle of the pack; standard poodles are the largest and toy poodles are the smallest. Some breed enthusiasts argue that there are actually five poodle classes, though the Klein or medium poodle and the teacup poodle have yet to be recognized by the AKC. Like their standard and toy-size cousins, miniature poodles have athletic, muscly bodies thanks to their origins as water retrieval dogs for duck hunters. Like their breed siblings, mini poodles have curly coats, lively faces, and dark eyes. While the elaborate continental hairdo, with its curling pom-poms carefully shaped and clipped around the joints and chest, is popular with show poodles, most miniature poodle owners prefer the low-key sporting clip, a short, one-length cut that looks a bit less like a topiary. No problem. The miniature poodle comes in an array of hues, including black, white, apricot, grey, silver, and brown. The breed tends to shed only minimally, so you won't need to stock up on lint rollers with a mini poodle around. And, while no dog is truly hypoallergenic , poodles of all sizes can be a good fit for people with allergies. Temperament When compared to their breed siblings, miniature poodles fall in the middle of the pack in terms of temperament, too. Tiny toy poodles tend to be a little more hyper, while the standard is the calmest of the three. All poodle types can be anxious and timid at times and do best in a peaceful living arrangement with lots of attention and care. Miniature poodles are smart, active, and playful. They love to romp and play nearly non-stop as puppies and young dogs. Their activity levels do change with maturity, but you can expect your miniature poodle to stay pretty active even as an adult dog. When they meet someone new, their reactions can range from friendly and polite to shy and timid. Their sensitive nature sometimes results in hypersensitivity and anxiety; help your mini out by socializing them early and providing them a stable, conflict-free living arrangement. That can actually be a reflection of a number of things, but the most prominent variable is socialization, either the implementation of it or lack thereof," Silverman says. Living Needs These little athletes love space to run and burn off their extra energy, so a big fenced-in yard or frequent trips to the dog park is a plus. Their small size means they can live well in an apartment as long as they get their exercise needs met, says Chyrle Bonk, DVM at Pet Keen. Miniature poodles are peaceful dogs who know how to play nice with children, Bonk says. And, with proper socialization, poodles can be friendly with other pets. But because they can be anxious, a poodle might not thrive if you have a revolving door of visitors or a noisy, chaotic living situation. Early socialization will keep your miniature poodle from being overly watchful and timid. Spending time with their owners is important to minis—they can become lonely or experience separation anxiety if left alone too often. As Bonk says, poodles "require a lot of attention and mental stimulation to fill their hours. They aren't going to like being left alone without something to do. But lack of shedding doesn't mean it's a no-maintenance coat. Bonk says your mini needs daily brushing to prevent matting. Even when they're given a simple one-length-all-over sporting clip, miniature poodles require regular grooming appointments—or an owner who is seriously skilled with clippers. Miniature poodles are active, athletic dogs who need plenty of daily exercise and long daily strolls. They're up for adventure and love to stay busy, so it won't be hard to keep them moving. Miniature poodles love to swim , and swimming can be an excellent workout for these curly cuties. Minis also love playing fetch and can burn off some of their abundant energy chasing after balls and sticks in the backyard. These tiny athletes also excel in obedience training and agility. Because of this, I would recommend starting by teaching them to jump up on something elevated, like a low chair, couch or bed," Silverman says. Bonk recommends keeping training upbeat, fun, and not repetitive. Encouraging your pup with lots of praise and consistency will get your eager-to-please mini in his zone. Thanks to their people-pleasing nature, miniature poodles are typically easy to potty train. Just make sure they have a healthy diet of high-quality dog food and plenty of fresh, clean water available. Your veterinarian should be able to recommend a food with the right nutrients for your dog's age and nutritional needs. Health Miniature poodles usually live long lives of 10—18 years and are generally healthy dogs. Reputable poodle breeders routinely test their dogs for health conditions miniature poodles are prone to, including hip dysplasia , eye problems , and orthopedic issues such as luxating patella. Miniature poodles are also prone to dental disease. Tartar build up can lead to more serious issues including infection, tooth loss, and organ damage, so regular teeth cleanings —either at home or through your veterinarian —are a must. Keeping regularly scheduled veterinary appointments will help you stay up-to-date on your individual miniature poodle's health and well-being. History Poodles originated in Germany as duck-hunting dogs—the name poodle coming from the word pudelin, a German-language reference to the breed's fondness for water, the AKC says. Their intelligence, swimming abilities, and protective coat made them ideal workers for water retrieval. While standard poodles were historically the dominant breed size used for hunting, many sporting clubs now use their smaller kin to assist with flushing fowl from brush. The intricate continental clip most people associate the poodle with is for more than just a style choice. The distinctive cut was originally designed to keep dogs being used for water retrieval comfortable and buoyant in icy waters. By cutting the hair short on the limbs, they gave the dogs the freedom of movement they needed to swim while protecting their organs and joints by leaving the hair longer in those areas, according to the AKC. The poodle's natural elegance and trainability made poodles of all sizes the stars of many European circus acts. It's believed that the standard poodle was the first of the breed and that miniature and toy varieties were developed later. The French are largely believed to have evolved the original continental cut into the style it is today, making the remaining hair more round and adding the distinctive tail pom. Miniature poodles appear in many movies including Jaws, Bingo! That is one of the biggest myths in dogdom. First, ignore the silly show-ring clips. Poodles can be clipped to look like normal dogs. Look at the Miniature Poodle in the photo. That's my girl, Buffy. It takes me 30 minutes every six weeks to bathe her and run over her coat with a handheld clipper 5 blade , turning her into a shorthaired, normal-looking dog. Second, Miniature Poodles are miniature athletes. They excel in advanced obedience competition, where retrieving and jumping skills are required. They excel in agility obstacle course competition, where they dash over and under and through the obstacles with a strength and grace that is breathtaking to watch. The correct build is "square", which means their legs are long enough that their height is approximately equal to their length. Buffy has this build. These Miniature Poodles are both elegant and athletic, moving with a light, springy gait. Other Miniature Poodles are built lower to the ground, with short legs and a long back. These dogs have inherited a physical deformity called chondrodysplasia. It means they don't have the same elegance or agility as a properly square Miniature Poodle. Worse still, it means they're more susceptible to disk disease though square poodles can develop this disease, too. But whatever the build, a good Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest and most trainable of all breeds. This is a "thinking" dog who pays rapt attention to you, learns quickly, and responds well to training. Indeed, Miniature Poodles NEED some sort of mental stimulation in order to be happy, even if it's just challenging games such as hide 'n seek, or fetching a variety of named toys. This intelligent breed should never be relegated to the backyard and ignored. Most Miniature Poodles make great watchdogs, which simply means they will bark when they hear someone at the door. Most individuals tend to be reserved though polite and non-aggressive with strangers. But there are also individuals — like my dog Buffy — "who never met a stranger. With other dogs and cats, Miniature Poodles are peaceful and accepting. Poodles also have the advantage of being the lightest-shedding, most hypoallergenic of all coated breeds. Hairless breeds have no hair at all to shed. So do Miniature Poodles sound like a dream dog? Well, no breed is perfect! Besides the frequent clipping, Poodles do need daily exercise and playtime, as they're typically lively dogs. And Poodles need a great deal of companionship throughout the day. This makes them a great choice for shut-ins or people who work from home. But if everyone is gone for many hours, a Poodle will be unhappy. They're dependent dogs, and if they get lonely, they may bark, or chew destructively. Poodles are also "pattern-oriented" dogs who prefer their routines to always be the same. They can get flustered and anxious if you change things too much. Poodles are soft-tempered, sensitive dogs, sometimes hypersensitive. If you touch them unexpectedly or startle them with a sudden loud sound, they tend to flinch. The most sensitive individuals are unhappy around small children. Similarly, Miniature Poodles can get emotionally upset if there's too much activity or conflict or roughhousing in your household. These gentle dogs prefer peace and harmony. You do have to watch your lines.But how a Poodle turns out also depends on socialization and training. When taken out to experience the world and treated like an intelligent and capable dog, a Miniature Poodle is likely to live up to those expectations. If you want a dog who.Is conveniently-sized — neither too small or too large Is graceful, yet also athletic Has a short curly coat that is virtually non-shedding the best coated breed for allergy sufferers Comes in a variety of colors Is lively and playful Is one of the brightest and most attentive of all breeds Is easy to train and housebreak Is usually polite with strangers and sociable with other animals A Miniature Poodle may be right for you. If you don't want to deal with.Clipping the curly coat every six weeks, without fail A careful search to avoid high-strung, neurotic lines Timidity when not socialized enough Emotional sensitivity to stress, tension, and loud voices Potential barking A Miniature Poodle may not be right for you. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Poodles have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Books by Michele Welton "Respect Training for Puppies" or "Respect Training for Adult Dogs" is a step by step guide to help you bring out the best in your pup so you can enjoy a calm and well-behaved dog, no matter what his age. Get your book today. A healthy dog is a happy dog, so buy your copy today. Avoiding neurotic temperaments. Whenever a breed is common, many people breed them just to make some money, without having enough knowledge of how to produce healthy, stable dogs. As a result, obedience instructors and behavioral consultants, like myself, see lots of Mini Poodles with neurotic behaviors, including hyperactivity, senseless barking, and hyperactivity. Obviously you want to avoid these dogs! A lot of people are attracted to Poodles because they're so light-shedding and hypoallergenic. But light shedding always comes with a trade-off. In the Poodle's case, it's the amount of clipping they require. To keep their curly coat short and free of mats, Miniature Poodles require clipping every 4 to 6 weeks. Without fail. Professional groomers will try to sculpture your poodle with a shaved face, a topknot on his head, and a pom pom on his tail. That's the frou-frou look that keeps so many people from choosing a poodle. Now, if you like that look, fine. But if you don't like it, take control of how the groomer clips your dog. Or learn how to do it yourself — it's really easy. See photos of my girl Buffy, at the top of the page, and just below. Short coat, whiskery face, short ears, nothing shaved, no topknot or pompoms. Many people are surprised to find out that she's a Poodle. Works for me! Emotional sensitivity. Be honest.Are people loud or emotional? Miniature Poodles are extremely sensitive to stress. They can end up literally sick to their stomachs, with digestive upsets and neurotic behaviors, if the people in their home are having family problems. Miniature Poodles are peaceful, sensitive dogs who need a peaceful, harmonious home. Providing enough socialization. Some Mini Poodles are quite friendly, but most are a little standoffish with strangers. To avoid timidity or suspiciousness, it's important to take your dog out into the world as a young puppy and indeed all through his life. Read more about socializing your Miniature Poodle. Poodles are very observant. Even Poodles who love everyone will bark when they see or hear something unusual. In fact, they're often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. You have to be equally quick to stop them. You can only do that if you have the right relationship with your dog, where you are the leader and he is the follower. In other words, your Miniature Poodle must respect you. Fortunately this is very easy to do with Poodles. Read more about Miniature Poodle Training. Health problems. Miniature Poodles can live to 15 or 16 years old, but they're not always healthy during all those years. Chronic problems in Poodles include allergies, heart or bronchial diseases, joint disorders, and eye diseases. Read more about Miniature Poodle Health. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. Your browser does not support the audio tag. It is approximately the same length as the height at the withers. The skull is moderately rounded with a slight but definite stop. It has a long, straight muzzle. The dark, oval-shaped eyes are set somewhat far apart and are black or brown. The ears hang close to the head and are long and flat. Both the front and back legs are in proportion with the size of the dog. The topline is level. The tail is set and carried high. It is sometimes docked to half its length or less to make the dog look more balanced. Note: Docking tails is illegal in most European countries. Dewclaws may be removed. The oval-shaped feet are rather small and the toes are arched. The coat is either curly or corded. While it does not make the written show standard, some breeders are breeding parti-colored Poodles. See grooming for different types of Poodle clips. Temperament The Miniature Poodle is an intelligent, joyful companion dog. It can be trained to a high degree and is very willing and happy to please its handler. Comical and clever, it is often used as a circus dog. The more intelligent a dog is, the more it needs its mind occupied. This breed cannot live outside in a kennel. It needs to be part of the family. It can be high-strung if not given the proper type and amount of exercise. Do not allow this dog to develop Small Dog Syndrome , where the dog is led to believe it is alpha over humans. It can cause the dog to become sensitive and nervous , and not very trustworthy with children and possibly strangers, along with many other behavior issues. Socialize your dog well. This is a very good watchdog for its size, seldom becoming aggressive. Dogs may start to bark a lot without proper human to canine communication , rules to follow and limits to what they are allowed to do. Poodles are friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets. Height, Weight Height: 11 - 15 inches 28 - 38 cm Weight: 15 - 17 pounds 7 - 8 kg The sizes of the official AKC-recognized Poodle breeds are determined by height, not by weight. The Miniature Poodle must be over 10 inches and 15 inches or less at the highest point of the shoulder. Any Poodle which is over 15 inches or is less than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulder cannot compete in the AKC show ring as a Miniature Poodle. Brown Poodles tend to become prematurely gray. Living Conditions The Miniature Poodle is good for apartment life. It will be calm indoors if it receives enough exercise. It will do okay without a yard. Exercise Miniature Poodles need a daily walk. While out on the walk make sure the dog heels beside or behind the person holding the lead, never in front, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. As with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. They adore water and love sessions of play. They are a very versatile breed with a hunting and retrieving beginning, although they excel in any performance event you offer them, including agility, obedience, rally and conformation showing, and often one will leave one ring and go directly to another to compete again. Since they love water they are great dock diving dogs and love water retrieving. Life Expectancy. Life Span Did You Know? The Poodle is one of the oldest dog breeds and was originally developed in Germany to hunt waterfowl. The Poodle may have originated in Germany, but they are much-loved by the French. So much so that the Poodle is the national dog of France. The Miniature Poodle is slightly more recent. This Mini version likely originated in France. The Mini Poodle has all of the same characteristics as a Standard Poodle; they just come in a smaller package. The Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds. On top of their intelligence, they are also known to have a cheerful disposition and a sensitive nature. They get along great with children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental falls that can happen with younger children. Because of this, they may be better suited to a home with older children. Younger children should be fine as long as they are taught how to properly interact with a small dog and interactions between young kids and puppies are closely supervised. Although they are considered part of the Non-Sporting Group, some facts about Miniature Poodles are that they are versatile and athletic dogs that are also quite playful. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with other dogs and tend to do well with strangers. They do tend to be protective of their home and can be suspicious of strangers coming up on the property. They are known to bark to alert you of strangers coming to the house. This makes them a good watchdog, but overall, they are more interested in making friends. This dog breed is highly adaptable. The Miniature Poodle does well in any type of home, including apartments, and fits in with just about any family type. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because Mini Poodles are people-oriented, they do not like being left alone and will not handle being left alone for long periods of time very well. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please, which makes them a good fit for owners of any experience level and one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are a people-oriented breed and are sensitive to moods and tones of voice. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or harsh tones as they take it personally, get their feelings hurt, and lose respect for you. A Mini Poodle tends to respond best to consistent training that is fun and focused on positive rewards. A Mini Poodle is one of the fluffiest dog breeds and will have a curly or corded coat that can come in just about any color. Although this dog breed has a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, their coat still needs a lot of grooming. They need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and matting. They should also be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy. Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise each day. Daily walks plus some playtime and other activities are usually enough for them. When puppies finish growing and developing, they often enjoy games of fetch and other activities like swimming, hiking, or jogging with their favorite human. Mini Poodles also tend to be great candidates for several dog sports, like agility, tracking, obedience, retriever hunt tests, and more. Just make sure to visit the vet and get your dog cleared for these activities before you jump in. Fully-grown Miniature Poodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Mini Poodles generally live for years on average. The Miniature Poodle was very popular among the French nobility. Featured Miniature Poodle Article. Coarse coat texture Chronic skin and ear infections Hypothyroidism is treated with lifelong oral medication, and dogs with this condition often live normally with proper treatment. Patellar Luxation A luxating patella is when a kneecap slips out of place. Patellar luxation is a common condition in small dogs, including Miniature Poodles. If you see your Miniature Poodle holding a leg up, limping, or having problems walking, they may be experiencing patellar luxation. Veterinarians can treat this condition by moving the patellar ligament to the correct location through surgery. In minor cases, this condition can be managed with anti-inflammatory and pain medications, but it will result in arthritis. Veterinarians may also suggest weight loss or joint supplements. Eye Problems Miniature Poodles can develop a few different eye conditions as they age. This condition is not curable and will lead to blindness. Cataracts are a hereditary condition that affects Miniature Poodles. Cloudy eyes are a telltale sign of cataracts, and you might notice your dog bumping into things and having issues navigating their environment, especially at night. But unlike PRA, cataracts can be corrected with surgery before your dog loses sight. Their food must be appropriate for their current life stage puppy, adult, or senior. Your veterinarian can recommend specific brands and help you make sure your Mini Poodle is getting the nutrients they need. How To Feed a Miniature Poodle Miniature Poodle puppies need to eat three or four times every day, adhering to a consistent schedule. Once they reach their first birthday, you can reduce their meals to twice a day. The best way to know how much to feed your dog is to talk to your veterinarian. You can also turn to your dog food packaging for guidance, as it will give you an amount to feed your pup based on their ideal weight. But because Miniature Poodles can have problems with their hips and knees, your veterinarian might prescribe supplements to improve joint health. Like all dogs, Miniature Poodles need obedience training and socialization, but they are fast learners and eager to please their people. Because of this, Miniature Poodles can do well in many types of homes. Miniature Poodle Personality and Temperament Miniature Poodles usually get along well with other pets. They need lots of exercise and playtime to burn off energy and keep their sharp brain engaged. Miniature Poodles can become anxious in new situations, however, so early socialization and training is important for having a confident pup. Miniature Poodle Behavior Miniature Poodles like to keep their little legs moving. Miniature Poodles also love swimming. Make time for play, and stimulate their mind with interactive toys and puzzle games. Once they have the basics down, you can teach your Miniature Poodle more complex tricks. Fun Activities for Miniature Poodles.