mini labradoodle puppies for sale in pennsylvania
One night he became quite agitated, and I attributed it to a bitch in season. By the next morning, his condition was too far gone to save him. Emergency surgery saved her life. I had a gastropexy done right then to ensure she would not have a repeat GDV episode. Frannie lived a healthy life, recently dying at age .The third most popular breed in the country based on registrations with the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd Dog may be the No. Traditionally, it has been thought that GDV occurs when the stomach fills like a balloon with gas, a process known as gastric dilatation. As bloat progresses, the gas-filled stomach twists degrees clockwise on its side, cutting off an escape for the gas through the esophagus or duodenum. This is gastric dilatation-volvulus. A profound distension of the stomach compresses vital blood vessels and organs in the abdomen and reduces oxygen to those organs causing a life-threatening condition as tissue death and toxins are released into the bloodstream. As the gastric pressure increases, critical blood supplies to both the stomach and the whole circulation are cut off sending a dog into shock. Rozanski says. Deep-chested large and giant breeds are vulnerable to bloat. As the gas builds in the stomach, a dog becomes increasingly uncomfortable. Owners may notice their dog pacing, panting, retching unsuccessfully, or standing stiffly with a hunched back. Clinical signs include a distended abdomen, pale gums, and a weak, rapid pulse. Emergency surgery to untwist the stomach and check for dead tissue provides the best outcome for dogs with GDV. Prior to surgery a veterinarian must stabilize a dog by relieving the pressure from the gas in the stomach and treating a dog for shock with intravenous fluids. As with Frannie, gastropexy is always performed during emergency surgery to prevent GDV from recurring. Gastropexy involves tacking the stomach to the right side of the abdominal wall to prevent future shifting or twisting of the stomach. A minimally invasive procedure, gastropexy is recommended to be done prophylactically at a young age, particularly in dogs having a parent, littermate or half-sibling that has bloated. At many clinics, a veterinarian performs a gastropexy laparoscopically using two to three incisions and cameras to help guide the procedure. When dogs die before GDV surgery can be performed, it is primarily due to shock and cardiovascular instability. Rozanski and Claire R. Their review, published in in Topics in Companion Animal Medicine , signaled decreased oxygen to tissues caused by cardiovascular dysfunction as setting in motion a systemic state known as multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Dysfunction can affect the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, coagulation, and renal systems. Additionally, Dr. Awareness of the potential for multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and aggressive supportive care are essential to maximize the chances for a successful outcome for dogs with GDV. While prophylactic gastropexy may decrease the prevalence of GDV in susceptible breeds, it does not eliminate the risk for mesenteric volvulus. Mesenteric volvulus occurs when the small intestine twists around the mesentery root that provides nutrients to the intestines. Although rare, mesenteric volvulus is almost always fatal. A study published in found an inverse relationship between decreased GDV cases due to prophylactic gastropexy surgery and increased incidence of mesenteric volvulus. The retrospective study looked at 54 mesenteric volvulus cases and controls to determine potential risk factors for the disorder in military working dogs treated at the Holland Military Working Dog Hospital at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. Predisposing risk factors included breed type, specifically German Shepherd Dog, increasing age, and history of gastrointestinal disease, gastropexy or other abdominal surgeries. Because GDV had been a longstanding cause of death or reason for euthanasia of military working dogs, in the U. Comparatively, there were cases of GDV from to before the policy went into effect, 95 cases from to , and 11 cases from to .During the same timeframe, six incidents of mesenteric volvulus were reported from to , 12 cases from to , and 48 cases from to .The link between gastropexy and mesenteric volvulus is unclear, the authors stressed. Thus, the benefit of gastropexy in preventing GDV likely outweighs the risk of the rare condition mesenteric volvulus, they said. It is considered a complex, multifactorial disorder with genetic and environmental influences. German Shepherd Dog enthusiasts suspect that bloat may occur more frequently in some bloodlines. An article of their findings about genetic susceptibility factors in large and giants breeds, which have a lifetime risk for bloat of 3. The genome-wide association study GWAS of dogs from 10 breeds included dogs that had experienced at least one GDV episode and healthy control dogs. Single nucleotide polymorphism SNP array genotyping followed by imputation of common genetic variation was performed on samples to identify GDV-associated SNPs and copy number variations. The 10 breeds represented were: Borzoi .Lead investigator Dr. We identified a potentially protective intergenic SNP, minor allele G, that appears across all breeds and that is particularly important in Collies, German Shorthaired Pointers and Great Danes. Sharp and Dr. Rozanski along with colleagues looked at the hospital records of dogs that bloated from September to April to understand why dogs die prior to surgery in an effort to account for preoperative nonsurvival. We found that financial reasons were a major risk factor in nonsurvival. Of the nonsurviving dogs, were euthanized and 30 died. Of those euthanized, were euthanized prior to surgery without the intent to treat. Given the rate of GDV nonsurvival due to nontreatment, efforts at disease prevention may be the best way to improve disease mortality. She had very tight ligamenture and abdominal muscles. She was happy, well-adjusted, and not a nervous or anxious dog. I look for lines with longevity and those free of GDV for one or two generations. Maybe all German Shepherd Dogs are somewhat genetically at risk. The German Shepherd has played many roles over the years including, among others: herding sheep, military field work, search and rescue, guide dog and police dog. This is a life threatening condition where the stomach rotates on its axis, cutting off the passage of food and water, and inhibiting circulation to the stomach and intestines. Bloat generally occurs in large, deep-chested dogs such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Weimaraners, Saint Bernards, and Newfoundlands but has been seen in small dogs on rare occasions. Patients typically present with non-productive retching, restlessness and abdominal discomfort. The first signs of bloat may include a distended stomach, retching, or dry heaving. If these symptoms are seen, immediate medical attention must be sought! The cause of the GDV is unknown, it is thought to have multiple contributing factors. That is the million-dollar question. No one knows the exact cause of why bloat happens; however large breed, deep chested dogs are more likely to bloat than other breeds. In some cases, eating or drinking large amounts and then being active is thought to cause bloat. There is also thought that eating out of elevated food dishes may increase chances of GDV as dogs may swallow more air when eating. Factors Suspected to Increase the Risk of Bloat Feeding one meal per day Breed of dog Feeding a dry diet Sex of dog: Male dogs seem to be at a higher risk Age: Older dogs, between the ages of years, seem to be at a higher risk Exercising immediately after a meal Factors Suspected to Decrease the Risk of Bloat Feeding canned dog food Feeding two or more meals per day No exercise for several hours after a meal What Does Bloat Look Like? Dogs with bloat can be restless and unable to get comfortable or lay down. They can have very distended abdomens that can be very painful. They may also have very fast heart rates and changes in breathing. In severe cases, they may collapse or be unable to stand. It is very important that if you see any of these signs that you have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian immediately. As veterinarians we understand that each dog can show different variations of these signs; if there is any concern an owner can always call a veterinary clinic and ask their opinion. Why is Bloat an Emergency? Bloat sets off a cascade of damaging events to the body. As the stomach fills with air it expands and starts to cut off blood returning to the heart. The expansion of the stomach then puts pressure on the diaphragm, making it difficult for the dog to breath. The stomach then starts to rotate cutting off the blood supply to the stomach. When the stomach rotates it can entrap the spleen and thus cause damage or cut off blood supply to the spleen and even rupture blood vessels. All of these changes lead to the dog going into shock. Blood pressure drops, arrhythmias and internal bleeding can occur as well as sepsis. Unfortunately, death can occur in a matter of hours if bloat goes undetected and untreated. All of these changes happen very quickly, which is why it is so important for an owner to recognize the signs of bloat and get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment Emergency veterinary medical attention must be sought for treatment of bloat. Unfortunately, there is nothing that an owner can do at home. Abdominal x-rays are the most reliable way to assess stomach position and diagnose bloat. Stabilization of the patient and diagnostics must be performed immediately. These dogs require pain medication and intravenous fluids. Surgical intervention is a necessary step in the treatment of bloat and should be done as soon as the patient is stable enough to undergo anesthesia and surgery. During a bloat circulation can be compromised and other abdominal organs, such as the spleen or intestines, may be affected, as a result the spleen may also need to be removed in some cases. Bloat, requires a multiple day stay in the hospital for post-operative care and recovery. If not treated by a veterinarian immediately, bloat can be fatal. Most dogs who are diagnosed and treated early in the development of bloat recover from surgery and can lead a normal life. The surgery consists of de-rotating the stomach back to its normal position and then tacking it to the body wall. This is called a gastropexy. If the spleen was involved in the twisting, then it may have to be removed as well. Even after the surgery is performed these dogs are not out of the woods. There are many complications that can still arise after surgery and it is very common for these dogs to be in the hospital for multiple days. Preventing Bloat Recommendations for preventing bloat are feeding several small meals a day, discouraging drinking large amounts of water at one time, allowing some time between eating and activity, and feeding on the floor. Hopefully knowing some of these preventative tips will decrease the chances of your furry family member bloating; however, if you see the signs listed above do not wait! Get your pet to an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Ideally call ahead so they know you are coming and can plan for your arrival. Time is of the essence. Shallow breathing Pale gums Puppies experiencing bloat will appear visibly uncomfortable and usually have a distended stomach. The pain may make your puppy act restless, pace, and whine and cry. Puppies may also wretch without producing vomit, as the blocked stomach entry will prevent regurgitation. The gums may appear pale, demonstrating a lack of oxygen, accompanied by shallow breathing and a rapid heartbeat. If your puppy is not treated, it will collapse and die. Causes of Bloat Several factors can contribute to your puppy experiencing bloat. Breed: Large and giant puppy breeds are three times more likely to experience bloat than mixed breeds. Large and giant breeds have wider, deeper stomachs that can hold more air, putting them at higher risk. The deep, narrow chest conformation of certain breeds creates a more acute angle where the esophagus connects with the stomach, making bloat more likely. Still, puppies of any size can develop bloat. Ingesting too much food or water quickly: When puppies eat food or drink too fast, they can inhale and trap large amounts of air in their stomachs and create bloat. The food or water itself can sometimes cause bloat, as a too-full stomach can press on other organs, no matter what is filling it. Exercising after eating: If a puppy partakes in strenuous exercise too soon after eating, its stomach can twist and swell, causing bloat. Anxiety: Irritable, anxious, and aggressive puppies are more prone to bloat. Weight: Dogs of any breed that weigh over pounds have a 20 percent risk of developing bloat at some point in their life. Diagnosing Bloat in Puppies To diagnose your puppy with bloat, your vet will examine clinical signs, medical history, and perform blood analysis and imaging tests like an ultrasound or X-ray. Imaging tests will reveal the extent of the bloat, and blood analysis will evaluate the level of oxygen loss. A speedy diagnosis is ideal, as an operation should happen as soon as possible. Treatment If you notice your puppy has symptoms of bloat, it needs to be taken to an animal hospital immediately. First, your vet will stabilize your puppy by administering IV fluids and oxygen. To treat bloat, your veterinarian decompresses your puppy's distended stomach by passing a tube down its throat to empty air from the stomach and allow the return of normal blood flow. When the stomach is twisted, your puppy will need surgery to properly reconfigure it. Sometimes, part of the stomach or the entirety of the spleen will need to be removed. If your puppy's surgery is successful, your surgeon may perform a gastropexy the suturing of the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent future twisting. Prognosis for Puppies With Bloat The prognosis for puppies with bloat varies based on how early treatment is received and the extent of the organ damage. After surgery, your vet will monitor your puppy in the hospital for several days. Some puppies treated can return to normal shortly after treatment, while others will die regardless. The mortality rate for puppies who have received treatment for bloat is 20 to 40 percent and rises with every organ injury sustained. How to Prevent Bloat Although you can't completely prevent bloat, there are measures you can take to reduce its likelihood of occurring. Gastropexy surgery may be recommended preventatively, particularly in Great Danes or other puppies predisposed to bloat. Gastropexy doesn't prevent air from being trapped in the stomach, but it does keep the stomach from twisting. You can take many at-home measures to minimize the risk of bloat. These include lowering your puppy's food bowl, feeding smaller quantities of food over multiple meals throughout the day, separating multiple dogs at feeding times, and waiting several hours after eating before exercising your puppy. Positive puppy socialization that reduces anxiety can also help prevent bloat as it ages. FAQ Why does eating too fast cause bloat? Often if your puppy eats too much or too fast, its belly can be overfilled with food and gas, press on other organs, and cause bloat. How common is puppy bloat in a small breed dogs? Bloat most frequently occurs in large and giant breed dogs, but all dogs are able to experience the condition. How fast does it take for bloat to set in? Bloat sets in within two to three hours after your puppy begins experiencing symptoms. If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet. Article Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. To treat bloat in German Shepherds, rush your dog to the vet or emergency animal hospital. The vet will then take over in stabilizing your dog by decompressing the stomach and giving pain relief and intravenous fluids. If the stomach remains twisted, surgery is required. Diagnosis may include taking an abdominal x-ray to determine the position of the stomach and the extent of the condition. To stabilize your German Shepherd, the vet will decompress the stomach to reduce the pressure caused by the gas build. Decompression involves passing a tube in the stomach or using a hypodermic needle on the side of the abdomen if passing a tube is impossible. Depending on the bloat stage, putting your dog on fluids and performing shock therapy may also make up part of the stabilization treatment. German Shepherd Stomach Flip Surgery If the stomach is still twisted after decompression, the dog will go into emergency surgery to correct the twist. Extreme damage to parts of the stomach wall and the spleen may mean that they have to be removed entirely. A German Shepherd that has survived bloat is susceptible to relapse. Surgery must conclude with gastropexy to prevent a further occurrence. This procedure attaches the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent it from twisting in the future. How to Prevent Bloat in German Shepherds To prevent bloat in German Shepherds, avoid large meals and feed a nutritious diet twice a day. If providing dry food, use cold-pressed or a mix of dry and wet. Avoid exercising your dog an hour before and after eating. Your vet can also perform laparoscopic gastropexy — a non-invasive surgery. Feed your dog two or three times a day. This is preferred rather than a single heavy meal. Avoid poor-quality recreation bones and chews. Opt for healthy dog treats. Check out this article for my recommendations of the best treats for German Shepherds. Ensure your dog eats a nutritious and balanced diet. Feed your dog fresh food. Avoid fermentable carbohydrates, genetically manipulated food, foods with preservatives, and citric acid. Train your dog to eat slowly and not gulp down his food. This one gets over 80, positive reviews! Dogs should not exercise before and after a meal. I like to give my German Shepherd at least an hour and a half. A few small drinks during the day are best. This will help identify any conditions that may predispose your dog to bloat. Keep an anti-gas medicine in your first-aid kit. Consult your vet on what type is best and when to use it. Prophylactic gastropexy. A non-invasive preventative procedure to stop stomach twisting. See below. Prophylactic Gastropexy Prophylactic gastropexy is also known as preventive gastropexy. This procedure ensures that even though your dog may experience bloating due to air build-up, the deadly complications caused by a twisted stomach are prevented. You can also opt for a non-invasive option known as laparoscopic gastropexy. The vet makes a small incision through the abdomen and uses a camera to direct the procedure with this method. It can be performed at the time of spay or neutering. German Shepherds are known to suffer from many sensitive stomach issues, of which bloat is just one cause. You can learn about other causes of a sensitive stomach in GSDs in this article. Yes, bloat can be fatal for German Shepherds. Bloat is a serious condition that can cause the stomach to twist and cut off blood flow to vital organs. This can lead to shock, organ damage, and even death if not treated promptly. German Shepherds are particularly vulnerable to bloat due to their deep chests and large size. German Shepherds are more prone to bloat than other breeds due to their deep chests and large size. This anatomy makes it easier for their stomachs to fill with air and twist, leading to bloat. Final Thoughts Regrettably, German Shepherds are prone to bloat. Watch out for the signs and symptoms and familiarize yourself with the preventative measures mentioned in this article. The only correct way to treat GDV is to get your dog to the vet or emergency animal hospital as soon as possible. Related Posts You May Like:. It's A Matter of Life or Death. Updated: Oct 26, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV , also known as Gastric Torsion or Bloat, is a life-threatening condition that can happen to any dog breed of any age, but it typically occurs in deep-chested, larger breeds, such as German Shepherds. Bloat GDV occurs when the stomach fills with air and possibly food dilates rapidly and twists, cutting off the blood supply to the intestines and preventing blood from returning to the heart. This results in tissue death quickly if not treated immediately by emergency surgery. More often seen in German Shepherds, particularly older male German Shepherds 7 to 12 years of age, bloat has become more common in dogs as they've been bred for an increasingly slimmer physique. We here at Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary have encountered bloat several times over the years, with more incidents happening in males than females. In this blog post, we will discuss what bloat is, how to prevent it from happening, and what you do if your senior German Shepherd bloats Senior German Shepherds are at risk of bloating because their deep chests allow for large amounts of food and water consumption without difficulty; this puts them at a higher risk than other breeds that have shorter digestive tracts, like a toy poodle who has a limited capacity for larger intakes of food and water. That being said, we have done everything right in the past and still have had it happen to us twice without immediately being able to determine why. It was later determined that cancer was the underlying cause, particularly stomach cancer. So please, don't beat yourself up if you do everything by the book and your senior German Shepherd still bloats because sometimes, it's out of our hands. More about that below Treatment for bloat. Time is of the essence here, folks. I can't stress that enough. It is imperative to get your senior German Shepherd immediate medical attention if you suspect that he is bloating because it is quite literally a race against the clock. If you suspect bloat, call your veterinarian immediately and tell them what is happening. They will have you come in right away and may even be waiting for you outside with a gurney upon arrival.Once your senior German Shepherd is under medical care, they will put an IV in him and begin to decompress his stomach while providing pain medication. After that, they will do blood work and X-rays to determine if it is bloat. When bloat is confirmed, they will perform surgery. Armed with that information, we opted not to have surgery and decided to humanly euthanize instead. Side note. Sometimes, the spleen gets caught up in the twisting and may also need to be removed. When Woody bloated, that happened to him, and he did relatively fine with having a splenectomy. Another side note. If you opt to have the surgery, that's a good time to ensure a Gastropexy is performed so twisting can't happen in the future. Gastropexy is when the veterinarian tacks the dog's stomach down to prevent it from twisting in the future. This is essential because once your senior German Shepherd bloats, they are predisposed to it happening again in the future. Note: Gastropexy can be performed at any time, so you don't have to wait until it's an emergency. Once your senior German Shepherd is home from surgery, he will be wiped out, so be sure to give him the time he needs to recover without pushing him to do more than he can. When Woody bloated at 11 years of age, he made it through the surgery, but it took him almost a month to recover. Sadly, shortly after that, his Degenerative Myelopathy reared its ugly head, which I swear was accelerated by the whole bloat ordeal. It's essential to keep your dog calm while recovering. And while he is recovering, try to reevaluate what could have caused him bloat in the first place. If you can pinpoint what lead to the unpleasant event, make any necessary adjustments to prevent it from happening again. Woody bloated because we had just moved that day to our new home, which happened to be during a scary thunderstorm, and he was petrified of thunderstorms. In addition, someone was giving him treats he normally didn't have, unbeknownst to me, so I could pretty much figure out what caused his bloat. In conclusion, bloat is a life-treating matter that requires immediate medical attention. Do not wait to call your veterinarian if you suspect bloat. To those who know what to look for, bloat can be obvious, but it can also be challenging to determine the cause of bloat. It can be as simple as overeating or something more serious like stomach cancer. If you notice any changes that look like bloat in your senior German Shepherd, stay calm and seek medical help. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. This post may contain links to products that I may receive compensation for at no additional cost to you. View my affiliate disclosure here. What makes German Shepherds prone to this condition? It is their deep chest and large size, which is why GDV bloat can also occur in other dogs with the same characteristics. In addition to that trait, GDV is seen more commonly in males than in females. This particular condition requires immediate surgery for your dog as soon as you begin to spot any signs and symptoms. Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus is more than just an upset stomach or simple bloat - instead, it is life-threatening and will prove to become fatal if not urgently treated. GDV is characterized by the stomach filling with gas and becoming immensely bloated or swollen, later twisting degrees clockwise, shutting off both the entrance and exit. If you have a puppy that has diarrhea and is vomiting, rest assure he likely does not have GDV. Read our article here to learn the causes and how to help your puppy with his diarrhea and vomiting. Encouraging your German Shepherd to participate in physical activity after eating or drinking a large amount of water. This disorder is most prone to occur two or three hours after your dog has had a meal and then exercised. Genetics may be a possible cause, as a dog who has had parents, grandparents, or any other relatives with this condition may have acquired it from them genetically. An anxious, stressed, or frantic dog often likes to act hyperactive, fearful, or restless. Calmer dogs are at a much lower risk of ever developing this disorder. Decreased intestinal motion due to certain illnesses, which may subsequently lead to stomach dilation and volvulus. Being a male or an older dog, especially one beyond the age of 7. Curious what other health conditions are susceptible in German Shepherds? Read about 11 of the most common GSD health conditions here. The factors responsible for these breeds being prone to this disorder are their naturally large body size and their deep chests. Nonetheless, bloat can occur in all other dogs, including those of medium or small sizes. Other Facts About Gastric Dilatation Volvulus Gastric dilatation, which is the regular, non-life-threatening variant of dog bloat, can occur in elderly dogs of any size, including those of either medium or smaller sizes. However, large dogs, especially males and elderly dogs weighing pounds or over, have a 20 percent chance. The stomach full of pressure will push both on the posterior rib cage and the diaphragm, resulting in not only shortness of breath but also immense visible swelling and bloating of the abdomen. Systematic shock results since your dog's blood circulation is severely decreased, preventing blood and oxygen from getting to the vital tissues. Your dog will collapse, and you will notice his swollen abdomen, especially apparent on the left side. There are no symptoms of signs which differentiate Gastric Dilatation Volvulus from typical bloat, known just as Gastric Dilation. This is why vet intervention is necessary after spotting the symptoms of both conditions before things get entirely out of control and turn for the worse. Here are some ways you can help prevent Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus from occurring in your German Shepherd: Feed your German Shepherd two or three meals a day instead of only one large, hefty meal, which can also result in typical bloat. Don't feed your dog when he is acting hyperactive or restless. Always wait until he has calmed down and become more relaxed before giving him his food. This can be achieved by exercising your dog prior to feeding time. Curious why your dog is running around the house like crazy? He may have a case of the zoomies. Read our article to see the cause of this behavior and whether or not you should be concerned. Never allow running or any form of exercise, in particular one that is vigorous, after a meal, especially a large one. The very same goes for when your dog has drunk a large quantity of water. If your dog is prone to gulping or chowing down his food very quickly, it can make him much more predisposed to bloat. Therefore, if you see your dog finishing his food at an alarmingly fast pace, invest in a slow-feeding bowl that will slow down the rate he eats. Ensure your dog is at a healthy weight appropriate for his breed because being overly skinny could increase the chances of GDV. The weight of a male German Shepherd should range anywhere from 66 to 88 pounds, whereas a female should weigh anywhere from 49 to 71 pounds. Use canned food in your dog's diet from time to time, which allows for easier and more effective digestion. Don't give your dog food that contains a high amount of citric acid, as this can also play a huge factor when it comes to bloat. Avoid elevating your dog's food bowl unless he has joint problems or any other medical condition that requires for it. Feed your dog kibble, which is low in grain which is often the big culprit behind any kind of bloating in dogs, even regular bloating. Feed your dog kibble, which contains a lot of calcium and little fat. Add water to your pet's food to allow for easier digestion and may prevent him from chowing down the food too fast. If your German Shepherd has experienced gastric dilatation and volvulus, there is a very high chance that it may happen again. One surgical procedure that is highly efficient at preventing this is called Gastropexy, which involves attaching the stomach to the body to avoid its twisting when bloat occurs. Having Gastropexy done in your dog prevents GDV by as much as 75 percent. It's not as expensive as you may think and it can literally be a life saver in a health crisis such as this. Read our article here to help you chose the best pet health insurance for you. If your German Shepherd is experiencing GDV, his inflated, swollen stomach will press against abdominal veins and thus restrict the blood circulating through his body, preventing both blood and the oxygen in the blood from getting to the vital tissues. Improper circulation to the stomach wall will follow next because of the pressure of gas build-up in the dog's stomach. As a result, systematic shock will occur, impacting even more severely by the toxins now accumulated due to the process of digestion being unable to carry on. First of all, a tube is inserted down the dog's throat, or, if this option isn't possible in the case of a stomach twist volvulus , then a needle will be placed into your dog's stomach through his skin to be able to get rid of the build-up pressure. Alternatively, a catheter may also be used. This is followed by a shock treatment involving emergency measures such as intravenous fluids and other necessary medication. Afterward, your dog will go through surgery to untwist the stomach and ensure it is restored to how it was before. In addition, your dog will have his dying or dead stomach tissues removed. At this time, he can have Gastropexy done as well to prevent this dreadful disorder from happening again. Your German Shepherd may also have Pyloroplasty, which will allow the stomach contents to pass on through into the small intestine. There is a 15 to 20 percent mortality rate when it comes to Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, which can only be higher in the case of heart arrhythmias, severe tissue damage, or removal of the spleen.
Lifespan Sociability Ahh, the Golden Akita. Where do we start? Not only do they look different, but their personalities are worlds apart. Because the majority of Golden Akita pups are first-generation, there is no guarantee that he will be an equal blend of his parents. His Golden Retriever parent is part of the sporting group because of his gundog heritage. The Akita is part of the working group because he was traditionally bred in packs to hunt deer, wild boar, and bears. Both of his parents are very energetic and intelligent, which means they need a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. The Golden Akita, despite his robust appearance and character, craves human companionship and hates to be alone. So much so that he suffers from separation anxiety — a mixture of missing you and feeling that he is unable to protect you. For this reason, he needs to live with a family that can spend most of their day with him. This is one of its distinct features that separate him from the canine crowd. The Golden Akita is not always Golden He can inherit any color of his parents. Although the golden color is the most desirable, he can inherit black, white, silver, brindle, fawn or red, or a combination of them. He can also inherit the black facial mask of his Akita parent too. The Golden Akita is Rare This guy is relatively rare, so you need to be prepared to travel to find a reputable breeder, and expect to be placed on a waiting list. He will likely be a first-generation pooch, also known as an F1 , which means there is a lot of appearance and personality variation in pups. To learn just how faithful he can be, read up on the story of Hachiko , the most famous Akita in the world. Extremely loyal dogs usually carry the guard dog gene, and you can be sure that this gene will shine through in the Golden Akita. The Golden Retriever is one of the most intelligent dog breeds on the planet, which is why he is one of the most common assistance dogs. His Akita parent is also quite a smart pup, but only if he is in the mood for training. This dog is also seriously loving and affectionate. This is great news considering how fluffy and cuddly he is. Nothing will keep you warmer than a Golden Akita on a cold winters eve. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Not only does his well-balanced personality make him a delight to be around, but his robust body can handle excitable children. He is very patient and knows how to be gentle with them. Just be sure to supervise them considering how big he is. He needs a family that can spend most of their time with him. This guy will not get along well with a family who is out all day working and socializing. He also needs a family who has not only time for his intense exercise needs, but also interactive playtime throughout the day. His intelligent brain needs a lot of stimulation and enrichment to keep him happy and chilled. It is more than likely that edible treats will drive this guy, so be sure to include these in games and think of plenty of brain games to entertain him with. He also needs an experienced dog-owning family who is aware of what the family dynamics should be. A firm pack leader who will not allow the Golden Akita to get away with unruly behavior is needed. His Akita parent is known to be overly protective and can display fear aggression with other dogs. He might chase the local cats or visiting squirrels in your yard, but this is purely for his entertainment more than anything else. Image Credit: Lollga, Shutterstock Things to Know When Owning a Golden Akita Retriever: In addition to his personality and what kind of family he needs, here are a few other things that you need to know about his training and day-to-day needs. Being a large boy, you should always buy him kibble specially designed for large breed dogs. This is particularly important for his puppy life-stage. Feeding him a large breed kibble will help to control his rapid bone growth and help to lower the chances of him developing orthopedic disease. A high-quality dried kibble will provide him with vitamins and minerals, omega fatty acids, carbohydrates, and fiber. Anything more is just a bonus. Being a food-obsessed pooch, you should utilize treats in his training regime. If you notice that your Golden Akita is turning into a porky pooch, switch him to a weight management kibble and lower his treat intake. Being a big dog, this guy is prone to a condition called bloat. So make sure you do not feed him immediately before or after exercise. His stomach will twist, and it is a life-threatening condition , so make sure you are aware of the symptoms. You need to set aside 60 to 90 minutes of exercise every day. It needs to be intense and challenging for his body and mind to reap the benefits. A long leisurely walk around the block will not do. The Golden Akita is much happier in a home where there is room to roam and play all day long. Be sure to mix up his routine to keep him interested and to give his nose new surroundings to sniff. A great exercise activity for this guy is the local doggy park, and this will also keep his socialization skills and doggy etiquette up to scratch. They will need to invest a lot of time and effort into his puppy training schedule. Enrolling this guy into a puppy obedience class will set you up for a lifetime of well-behaved characteristics. It is essential to understand that his training is a lifelong commitment. He will need to be continually reminded of his doggy manners for him to remain polite. This is always the case with dogs that have the potential to be overprotective and challenging. But as long as you can commit to this, you will find that you have an adorable and lovely pooch. He needs early socialization to ensure that he becomes accustomed to and confident around other dogs, animals, humans, and unfamiliar situations. An unconfident or poorly socialized dog of his size can be a dangerous mix, and a handful to control. Considering how anxious he can become when left alone for too long, we suggest that you crate train him from an early age. Although many dog owners are put off by locking their dog in a cage, it is known to be useful in making him calmer and happier. His coat could take after either parent, but each has its demands. Be sure to wash him once every 8 to 12 weeks, depending on how dirty he gets on his adventures in the local doggy park. Do not clean him any more than this because you risk damaging his natural skin oils. You should purchase a concentrated but gentle shampoo to penetrate his thick coat. His large ears will need cleaning because they are bound to catch a lot of dirt. A build-up of dirt will lead to bacterial infections, so you should do this once or twice a week. He is a relatively healthy dog who will enjoy a lifespan of 10 to 13 years on average. Minor Conditions. The Akita Golden is a mix between the Akita and the Golden Retriever, so they often inherit the best of both worlds. While the Golden Retriever is a calm dog, the Akita is known as an aggressive breed. Despite having different temperaments, both are devoted to their families. But there are a few things you need to know about this mixed breed before bringing them home because they are not a good fit for everyone or every family. Read on to find out! Their History The Akita originated in the northern Japanese mountains for hunting and guarding work. Compared to many breeds, the history of the Golden Retriever is relatively new. They originated in the Scottish Highlands and were mainly used as hunting dogs. They are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. The Akita joined the working group in , while the Golden Retriever had already joined the sporting group in .Males are 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh about 75 to pounds. Females are about 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh about 65 to 90 pounds. They have round, compact feet and their legs are often longer than the Golden Retriever. They can have a dense double coat like the Akita. However, if their coat resembles the Golden Retriever, it will be longer, flat, or wavy. The Akita mix Golden Retriever can inherit the curly tail of the Akita. When they are joyful, their tail will spin like a Catherine wheel. This is a distinct feature that separates them from the canine crowd. They can inherit any coat color from their parents. The most desirable color is golden, but it can also be white, black, silver, brindle, fawn, red, or a mix of those colors. Based on the health conditions of their parents, the Akita Golden is more likely to suffer from bloat, dermatitis, hip dysplasia, and certain forms of cancer. Related post: Average Akita Lifespan? As a result, you will have an intelligent, affectionate companion. The Akita mix Golden Retriever is also a good watchdog. You can expect them to bark at strangers and show bravery in defense. But they can become overprotective, so they require socialization to control their temperament. A local dog park is a terrific place for this pup to get some exercise. This will also help improve their etiquette and socialization skills. The Akita Golden is happier in a home with space to run around and play all day, so they are not suitable for living in an apartment or a small house without a yard. You will need to invest a lot of time and effort into this task. So enrolling your little puppy in an obedience class will set you up for a lifetime of joy, happiness, and peace of mind. Besides, these dogs need early socialization to help them get comfortable with people and other animals. The best results come from consistent training mixed with praise and rewards for a job well done. You should bathe them once every 8 to 12 weeks, depending on how dirty they get from their adventures in the local dog park. But do not overbathe them since it will damage their natural skin oils and lead to skin problems. Being a large breed, you should always feed them food specially designed for large breed dogs. Feeding them the right food will help control their rapid bone growth and reduce the risk of orthopedic diseases. However, this breed may not be suitable for living with young kids. Always teach your children how to approach and interact politely with dogs. The Akita Golden mix gets along well with other pets as long as they are socialized early. The Akita side can make them more aggressive towards other animals. Thankfully, their friendly Retriever genes make them much more mellow. Therefore, you will need to search far and wide to find a reputable breeder and expect to be added to a waiting list. Conclusion The Akita Golden Retriever mix is undoubtedly a big dog to handle, but as long as you can provide all they need, they will return the favor tenfold and become devoted and happy friends. For a list of all the supplies you need for your new puppies, check out our Minimal Puppy Checklist to get all the right things to ensure a successful adoption process. Readers Also Liked:. Can tolerate seasonal changes. Is easy to maintain dog breed. A Golden Retriever Akita Mix is suitable for families with kids. Will make a great companionship to its owner. Tends to shed a lot. Expect to brush your Akita Golden Retriever mix at least a few times a week to remove loose fur and prevent tangles. During shedding seasons, which can be quite heavy, daily brushing may be necessary. Regular maintenance of their ears, eyes, and nails is essential, as with any dog breed. Additionally, be prepared for seasonal shedding, especially with the Golden Retriever genes, which can result in more fur around the house during certain times of the year. Akita Golden Retriever Mix Dietary Requirements The dietary requirements of an Akita Golden Retriever mix, like any dog, depend on their age, size, activity level, and overall health. However, there are some general guidelines to consider when feeding this mixed breed. Quality Dog Food: Choose a high-quality commercial dog food that is appropriate for their age and size. Look for brands that list a protein source like meat or fish as the first ingredient. Many dog owners opt for brands that do not contain artificial additives or fillers. Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to prevent overfeeding, as both Akita and Golden Retrievers can be prone to obesity. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the right portion size for your specific dog. Protein and Fat: A balanced diet for this mix should have a moderate protein content to support their muscle development and maintenance. Healthy fats are also essential for skin and coat health. Fruits and Vegetables: Some fresh fruits and vegetables can be added as occasional treats or supplements. However, avoid feeding your dog foods that are toxic to dogs, such as grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic. Avoid Overfeeding: Golden Retrievers, in particular, have a reputation for being enthusiastic eaters. Be cautious not to overindulge them with treats or table scraps, as this can lead to weight gain and related health issues. Water: Ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times. They can provide guidance on portion sizes, dietary restrictions, and any health concerns. Puppies, adult dogs, and seniors all have different dietary requirements, so be sure to adapt their food accordingly. Additionally, if your dog has any allergies or sensitivities, your vet can recommend specialized diets to accommodate their needs. Basic obedience training is essential to establish boundaries and control, as Akitas can be strong-willed, and Golden Retrievers can be exuberant. Positive reinforcement techniques, using treats and praise, work well with this mix, as harsh or punitive methods can be counterproductive. Regular exercise is also vital to burn off their energy, as both breeds are active. Overall, consistent training and plenty of positive interactions will help your Akita Golden Retriever mix become a well-behaved and happy companion. Consider enrolling in puppy training classes or working with a professional dog trainer for more advanced training needs. Early socialization and consistent obedience training are key to ensuring a harmonious relationship between the dog and children. With the right upbringing and environment, this mixed breed can be a loving and dependable family pet, known for its loyalty and devotion to its human pack. Akita Golden Retriever Mix Compatibility With Other Animals The compatibility of an Akita Golden Retriever mix with other pets in the house largely depends on their individual temperament and early socialization. Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly disposition and tend to get along well with other pets, including dogs and cats. Proper socialization from an early age and supervision during initial interactions are essential to ensure a harmonious coexistence. Firstly, this mix tends to be a medium to large-sized dog, which can be challenging in smaller living spaces. Secondly, both the Akita and Golden Retriever breeds have moderate to high energy levels, and they need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Limited space in an apartment may make it difficult to provide them with the necessary physical activity they require. Akitas can be territorial and may not always adapt well to the close quarters and frequent encounters with neighbors and their pets that come with apartment living. They have a protective nature and may become wary of strangers or other dogs in shared spaces. Akita Golden Retriever mixes are better suited to homes with a yard or access to open spaces where they can expend their energy and maintain their mental and physical well-being. If a Golden Retriever Akita Mix has thick skin, they will not keep their body cool in the hot climate or weather. Akita Golden Retriever Mix Adaptability To Cold Weather An Akita Golden Retriever Mix adapts well to cold weather because it tends to have a double-layer coat on its body, protecting it from outer elements and helping it regulate its body temperature. Golden Retriever x Akita tends to be more active in cold weather compared to hot weather. Plus, Golden Retriever Akita Mix moods tend to be more positive in cold climates compared to other environments. Golden Retriever Akita Mix is a beautiful mix of two extremely loyal dogs. Check out the article below to get to know this breed more thoroughly. Akita Golden Retriever mix. Moreover, The Akita is often referred to as an aggressive dog and a calm dog. The Golden Retriever is mellow. Despite their distinct temperaments, both parents are affectionate and loyal to their families and loving towards children. Golden Akitas generally resemble Akita in appearance and appear larger than the Golden Retriever. However, the coat and certain characteristics may reach that of a Golden Retriever. The purpose of crossing the parents is to create an Akita-like hybrid. Akita also has features similar to that of the Golden Retriever. Information on the parent breed. Golden Retriever. Goldens are strong, athletic, and can carry the heavy game across water and land with a large, powerful head, an impressive neck, and well-developed fore and hindquarters. Goldens are slightly larger than tall and feature a smooth, powerful ground-covering gait and a thick, straight, or wavy exterior waterproof coat. The breed was appreciated because of its hunting capabilities; it was able to be produced through the precise blend of foundation stock, and then only later did it become sought-after as an animal. You may like: Dachshund golden retriever mix. The Akita breed is a strong add large dog breed with a powerful look with a powerful and noble appearance. They were initially used to guard the nobility and royalty within feudal Japan. They also hunted and tracked Black bears, wild boar, and occasionally deer. It is believed that the Akita is a large, strong dog with an impressive appearance. An enormous head, small triangular eyes, and a tough, confident posture. The mere fact of having a strong Akita can be an alarm to those people who might cause trouble. However, the divide remains broad and an issue of worry to Akita enthusiasts from both camps. Golden Retriever Akita mix breed appearance. The Akita Golden Retriever mix can look like any parent breeds based on the predominant appearance. It is a big hybrid dog, weighing between and 66 pounds, with a strong, muscular build. The ideal look is from the Akita with a big round head and an erect triangular ear. Also, the muzzle is large but proportional to the head. The bite is a scissor. The eyes of the Golden Akita are soft, expressive, and oval-shaped, with round to oval shapes with brown shades in every shade. The legs are more significant than the Golden Retriever, and this hybrid comes with competition, small feet. The tail typically resembles the Akita and can be curled at the back, but it could be straight when you choose. Golden Akita resembles the Golden Retriever. The coat also resembles the Akita with its double and dense. If the coat is similar to that of the Golden Retriever, it will also be longer but double and often wavy or flat. You may like: Border collie golden retriever mix. Akitas are incredibly loyal. Golden Akita is one of the most loyal breeds of mixed breed around. To find out how loyal to him, you can take a look at the tale of Hachiko Hachiko, the most well-known Akita around the globe. The most loyal dogs typically carry this guard dog gene, and you can rest assured that this trait will be evident with the Golden Akita. The Golden Akita will be suspicious of anyone who comes into the house and sits at a distance and watch on his children. The dog is also extremely loved and affectionate. This is a great thing because of how soft and cuddly the dog is. Grooming and coat. The Golden Akita requires regular brushing due to his huge fluffy jacket. His coat can be patterned in the form of either parent; however, each one has its requirements. Make sure you wash him at least every weeks, based on how filthy he gets during his excursions in the doggy park in the neighborhood. Do not wash him longer than this, as you could damage the natural oils of his skin. It is recommended to purchase a concentrated yet gentle shampoo that can go through the thick coat. You may like: Golden retriever husky mix. Are these dogs good for families? Without a doubt, the Golden Akita makes a wonderful family pet. His balanced personality makes him an absolute pleasure being around, but his sturdy body can take on agitated children. Make sure you keep an eye on them, given how big the guy is. He will need a family who can spend the majority of time with them. This person will not have a great time with a family in the office all day and not socializing. Does this breed get with other pets? The Akita parent is well-known for being overly cautious and exhibits fear and aggression towards other dogs. He may chase local squirrels or cats in your backyard, but this is for his enjoyment more than anything else. You may like: St bernard golden retriever mix. A Golden Akita will need around 3 cups of high-quality dry food that provides the dog with a balanced diet. As a big dog, You should purchase kibble specifically made for dogs of large breeds. This is especially important during his stage of puppyhood. Feeding him a large breed of kibble will help control his rapid bone growth and help to lower the chance of developing an orthopedic condition. Activity and exercise. It is a breed that has a high energy level. Golden Akita will need plenty of exercises and extremely high intensity. A yard and outdoor space are better suited to this Golden Akita. The Golden Akita is a fan of temperate conditions, and although it can tolerate cold and hot environments, it will not perform well in extreme conditions. You may like: Bulldog golden retriever mix. Life and health. Akita is a mixed breed. Golden Akita is a mixed dog that is likely to inherit a mix of health problems. The Golden Akita is a fairly healthy dog with a lifespan of 10 to 13 years, on average. Elbow dysplasia. Terms-Of-Service Golden Retriever Akita Mix Golden Akita Retriever -Cost, Lifespan and Temperament Imagine one of the most popular breeds of dogs being mixed with one of the most powerful breeds of dogs…well you no longer have to wonder, because this situation is already alive and barking! The mix between a Golden Retriever and an Akita is an interesting mash-up. Between their individual characteristics, and clashing demeanors, a Golden Akita Retriever turns out to be a strong and favored dog. Its size, skills, personality traits, and domestication tends to make it a well-balanced dog, and a potentially useful one as well. But what else is there to know about the Golden Akita Retriever…keep reading. Males tend to be 24 to 26 inches tall, with a weight of between 75 and pounds. Their female counterparts are a bit smaller, coming in with height of 23 to 25 inches, and a weight range of 65 to 90 pounds. Most of the dogs in this special breed tend to have brown eyes, with a fur color of either white, red, tan, brown, or black. This mix has a decent coat too; they are covered with medium length straight hair, which has the capacity to be a bit dense, but soft enough to get a brush through. Lifespan There are many influences that dictate the life expectancy of a Golden Akita Retriever; diet, exercise, level of health, and domestication are just a few of those factors. But, if everything goes well within the life of Golden Akita Retriever, it has the capacity to live for at least 10 years, with max of 12; or 13 with ultimate care and health. This may not seem like a long time, but with the activity level of the Golden Akita Retriever, it could feel like a lifetime. Simply take precautions to its physical personality, and be sure to care for it well. This type of connection also has the power to elongate the life of this special beed. Grooming Needs To help bring awareness, the Akita breed of dog is not a hypoallergenic one; and when mixed with a retriever, the Golden Akita Retriever does not make the cut as hypoallergenic either. Therefore, routine maintenance is needed for proper living with this breed of animal. The grooming needs of the Golden Akita Retriever include clipping their nails, and brushing their fur out on a routine basis. Their straight hair shed often, so using a pin brush or slicker brush is a must if you want to properly groom this dog. Brushing this breed should happen at least once a week too, which will help to distribute their skin oil, which could reduce dermatitis and pet dander. Temperament A Golden Akita Retriever has an even-tone temperament, and it uses its emotions, or calmness, during the right moment. They are usually a calm group of dogs, and quiet while in the house or taking a walk. For this reason, this breed would also make for an excellent guard or watch dog. They do well within the social setting as well. They can be highly energetic dogs — thanks to the Golden Retriever in them — which makes them fun while at the park, but may be a bit much for small children; which is why the dogs must be trained properly to control their impulsive urges. In essence, the Golden Akita Retriever has well-balanced demeanor, and can be trained effectively, and socialize with little-to-no harm or foul. Exercise Needs With the mix of energy from the Golden Retriever, and the solid build of the Akita, you can expect the Golden Akita Retriever to be an energetic dog; so exercise is a big deal. This breed of dog will require, on average, 1 to 2 hours of play per day. They enjoy running and chasing fun objects around, like a ball or frisbee, and a lot of room is needed for them to make this happen. If you are capable of keeping up with this type of movement, then a Golden Akita Retriever could be a good pick for you. They are no stranger to hard work, and their size allows them to handle being around dense land and heavy objects; while their strength grants them the power to help out with lifting sizable sticks, or guarding you as you do the heavy lifting. Their keen sense of sight, hearing, and smell are what makes them a great hunting partner. They use these sensitive senses to sniff out and locate various types of animals, including birds, hogs, rabbits, and small rodents. Health Risks Although cute, cuddly, and composed, there are health risks that are associated with the Golden Akita Retriever dog breed, and they should be taken into consideration when learning about this happy-go-lucky breed. Major health risks for this brand of dog include hip dysplasia, bloat and aortic stenosis, which is a heart condition. Other diagnosis that may come into play during their life is cataracts, glaucoma, skin allergies, hypothyroidism, or even sebaceous adenitis, which has a negative effect on the skin of the dog. There is also the threat of elbow dysplasia too, considering that most of these dogs are playful and moving for most of their lives. Because of these significant potential impairments, routine radiographs and physical examination should be enacted about once to twice a year to help keep this breed healthy and intact. They consume about 3 full cups of dry food per day; and when tallied up, that comes out to be a monthly food stipend of about 50 dollars, just to feed your dog. No matter the cost, they are to be fed nutritious food that keeps their muscles and bones healthy. These foods can include whole foods like potatoes, carrots, peas, or beans. Other proteins sources, like chicken or fish, may be a decent choice for your Golden Akita Retriever as well, considering that they are quite carnivorous. Are Golden Akita Retrievers Protective? As a matter of fact, yes, Golden Akita Retrievers are protective animals. They are naturally keen to notice small or big items that move pretty fast, which is an automatic self-defense mechanism of this breed. When this happens, they become adrenaline-pumped, and will begin to bark, and if allowed, even chase the threat that dares to approach its family. Caretakers are very happy about this feature because it grants them more of a feel of safety within their family dynamic, thanks to the assertiveness of the Akita, and the intelligence and forthright of the Golden Retriever. When trained properly, this special mix of breed can be very good watch dogs during camping or hunting trips, or even a domesticated guard dog within the home. Either way it goes, the Golden Akita Retriever will protect their companions without hesitation. The Golden Akita Retriever is a hot commodity in the dog world, and can become in high demand when the supply is ready. For this reason, you can expect to spend about to dollars for a Golden Akita Retriever. The price is rarely beneath , and has the ability to reach as high as 2, dollars, if the Retriever is in tip-top shape. Puppies and Akita Retrievers in their prime tend to range a bit higher on the price scale simply because of their optimal level of health. However, if a Golden Akita has any of the aforementioned health risk present within them, then the price could be negotiated down. Another way to get a better deal on a Golden Akita Retriever is to adopt one! Are you an outdoor type of person? Are you willing to move around for about an hour a day? Are you looking for a companion that could be a good friend and a useful entity? If you answered yes, then a Golden Akita Retriever could be right for you. The mix of the Golden Retriever makes them active and loyal dogs that will stick by your side in both the sun and rain; while the Akita side makes them useful during tips, while still transparent and connected to their owner. The dogs of this breed can be a good fit into most families, and are willing to be a functional part, with the proper care and domestication. Their Golden Retriever side enjoys the tropical temperatures that land between 73 and 82 degrees; while the Akita mix is quite fond of cooler temperatures between 69 and 75 degrees. Because of this blend, the Golden Akita Retriever does very well in the optimal tropical range of 72 to 80 degrees fahrenheit. Their coats are a top reason for why they prefer such even-tone weather. They tend to have straight hair, with an undercoat and overcoat layer. Although straight, the hair tends to still be quite thick, which is why they still feel like the fluffiness of the Akita. The Attention That A Golden Akita Retriever Needs Golden Akita Retrievers can come off with the demeanor of a friendly cat; they love to play with you and interact with their toys, or the outside world; but when they want to be alone, they are prone to going off into their own space and staying that way for a while. With that being said, Golden Akita Retrievers require an adequate amount of attention. They are pretty active dogs, and love to move about and have fun while being engaged; and it will be up to you to help them achieve this goal on a daily basis. The good thing about it is that when the adventure is complete, they tend to go off on their own and be alone for a while. This allows them to cool off their bodies properly, while giving you a break to regain your energy that you spent while giving some loving attention to the Golden Akita. Compatibility With Kids Golden Akita Retrievers can be some of the most loving dogs that you can ever come across. They tend to be honest dogs that express their emotions towards those that trigger them; and that stands true with children as well. Golden Akitas do well with children. They are keen to their senses, and have the capacity to become quite protective over the ones that take care of them and show them love and affection. However, Golden Akita Retrievers are a high-energy dog, and have a tendency to not be fully aware of their size in comparison to younger children. So, toddlers would probably have a more challenging time handling a full-size Golden Retriever, but overall, they do well with children, and can be labeled as fairly compatible with them. Compatibility With Other Animals Golden Akita Retrievers can be pretty easy dogs to socialize, if they start the process as a pup. If this is the case, they tend to do well with other animals, and have a cordial level of compatibility with both cats, dogs, and even birds. The Akita parent is known to show aggression towards other animals, which makes the Golden Akita initially skeptical of other animals. But the Golden Retriever parent has more of a docile demeanor; thus, making it easy for the Golden Akita to give friendship with another species a shot. I hope you found it helpful as you raise your pet. For dogs, flea and tick infestation is deadly and may cause severe diseases if not treated regularly. Free Shipping on all orders at discounted prices. Click here to join risk-free. Low cost plans, risk free guarantee. You Might Also Like:.
His main purpose is for hunting large game. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. It is said that he got his name due to using his front paws for just about anything. Boxer dogs look intimidating with their stern-looking faces and powerful bodies. But they are actually very loving family dogs that get along with children and other animals. They love being with their families, and being separated from them can lead them to develop separation anxiety. Since this working dog is highly intelligent but stubborn in nature, he is better suited for experienced owners. The average lifespan of the breed is 9—10 years. Look for a boxer puppies for sale Warwick Rhode Island? Here is a brief background of this protective dog with a good sense of humour. History of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser a fighting dog with Mastiff ancestry and the Old English Bulldog. He was developed in Germany in the 19th century as hunters of deer, wild boar, and bear. Later on, he was used to guard and drive cattle. The man responsible for the creation of the Boxer breed was Georg Alt, who was from Munich. He crossed a brindle-coloured female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown breed. In , the first German Boxer dog named Flocki joined a dog show in Munich. After winning the dog show, he was the first-ever Boxer dog to be listed down in the German Studbook. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. Boxer puppies for sale in Warwick RI The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The American Boxer Club was established in .In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack dogs, and messenger dogs. The British Boxer Dog Club was then formed in .The Boxer breed was recognised by the Kennel Club shortly thereafter and classified under the Working Group. Versatile and hard-working, these dogs are capable of carrying out different canine work. Boxers are good choices for protection dogs, police dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs for the blind. Temperament and Intelligence of the Boxer puppies Warwick for sale Extremely patient and gentle, the Boxer breed is good with children. But he is recommended for families with older children as he may accidentally knock over toddlers. Befriending other pets is possible if the Boxer dog is properly socialised at a young age. It will keep him from viewing small animals as prey and reduce his tendency to dominate same-sex dogs. Is a Boxer a good family dog? Yes, the Boxer breed is a good family dog. He may look noble and intimidating, but he is actually considered the Joker of the Dog World. Boxer dogs are playful and fun-loving. They love to be part of family activities and be the centre of attention. Are Boxer dogs dangerous? Boxer dogs may be tough-looking, but they are not generally aggressive. But they will stand guard and defend their families if necessary. Boxer dogs are initially wary of strangers, but they eventually warm up to them if no danger is detected. Their protective and loyal nature makes them good guard dogs as well as watchdogs. Are Boxers easy to train? Yes, Boxer dogs are easy to train if you are already experienced in handling the breed. They are intelligent but tend to be independent and stubborn. Due to this, they are not suited for first-time owners. Boxer dogs respond better to people that are firm and consistent. However, firm does not mean harsh. Instead of strict training methods, positive reinforcements are more effective in teaching this breed basic dog manners and tricks. Boxer Breed Highlights The Boxer dog breed is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. Boxer dogs are comical companions despite their intimidating appearance. The Boxer breed has low-maintenance grooming needs. As an energetic working dog, he has high exercise needs. Boxer dogs tend to be destructive when they are left alone or unable to let off steam. Are there miniature boxers? Yes, but they are rare. Miniature boxers are either a product of mating purebred runts or cross-breeding small dogs that have similar characteristics to boxers, such as Boston terriers, pugs, rat terriers, and fox terriers. While some of these minis may closely resemble their larger counterparts, they may not act similarly. Are boxers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, boxers are not hypoallergenic. What problems do Boxers have? Boxer dogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces. This trait narrows their airway and causes breathing problems. As a result, Boxers should not be out in the sun for a long time as it can lead to heatstroke. Overexercising them must be avoided too to avoid triggering breathing difficulties. How long do Boxer dogs live? The Boxer dog breed has a short lifespan compared to other dogs. He can only live up to 9—10 years, and this is due to the prevalence of health issues in the breed. When buying a Boxer puppy, look for a reputable breeder whose breeding stock and litters are health-screened. This will help you determine how likely is your chosen Boxer puppy going to develop certain health conditions. It was decimated during King Philip's War —76 and was the site of the Gaspee Affair, the first act of armed resistance against the British, preceding even the Boston Tea Party, and a significant prelude to the American Revolution. Greene, a hero of the Battle of Gettysburg. Today, it is home to Rhode Island's main airport, T. Green Airport, which serves the Providence area and also functions as a reliever for Logan International Airport in Boston, Massachusetts. Wiki Warwick Drop us a line! We will not send you unnecessary notices in the future. My name is Tetyana and I am glad to welcome you on the site of the breed nursery. Angel was dumped as a small puppy in a rural Mississippi town, and left to fend for herself on the streets. A kind woman found her and brought her home, and reached out to rescue for help. Angel went into a wonderful foster home, where she was taught how to give and receive love, and how to interact with other dogs, cats, and children. She has done wonderful at learning how to be a family dog. Angel lives in the house with several foster siblings and several cats, and she gets along with everyone. She is house trained, crate trained, and leash trained. Her favorite activity is playing outside with her siblings, chasing a ball, and cuddling with her foster mom on the couch. Angel will do best in a very active home. She has tons of energy, and would love a fenced back yard to run and play. She would also love a home with other dogs with this same energy. Older children will do great with her, but she will need supervision with small children, just due to her energy and excitement. Angel is patiently awaiting her forever home so that she can start her new life and settle in with her very own family. We can provide a list of low costs SN clinics to adopters when requested. Adoption fee also includes transport fee. This requirement is for the benefit of you and your puppy so if you experience behavior issues you have a point of contact. PLEASE - Think long and hard before adopting a puppy - consider the lifestyle change this puppy will come with - he cannot be crated for more than hours at a time until he's older, puppy proofing your home will be necessary, puppies scratch and nip so if you have small children, can they handle this?? Training will be so important in this puppy's life, do you have the time?? Please consider purchasing this book before adopting. Donations for our young, healthy puppies and dogs support their fellow canines of advanced age or suffering from injuries and abuse whose donations are reduced but whose veterinary costs are typically much higher. We appreciate your understanding that your newly adopted dog will help others in need.
Breeds The link has been copied! French Bulldogs are an adorable and popular breed of dog known for their distinctive bat-like ears. These cute canines have captured the hearts of people all around the world, but many potential owners wonder when their furry friends' ears will stand up. The good news is that French Bulldog ears typically do stand up eventually, but the process can vary from dog to dog. In this article, we'll explore the fascinating world of French Bulldog ears and learn when you can expect them to stand up. So get ready to fall even more in love with these lovable pups! Typically, French Bulldog puppies' ears will start to stand up between weeks of age. However, some puppies may take longer to develop, and their ears may not stand up until they are 6 months old or even longer. The reason for this variation is that each dog's genetics play a significant role in the shape and development of their ears. While you're waiting for your puppy French Bulldog's ears to stand up, it's also a good time to work on potty training. Starting early and using positive reinforcement techniques can help establish good habits and prevent accidents in the house. With patience and consistency, you can successfully potty train your Frenchie while also enjoying their adorable and unique appearance. It is also important to note that some French Bulldogs' ears may never stand up fully, which is completely normal and doesn't affect their health or happiness. So, whether your Frenchie's ears stand up quickly or take their time, they will still be adorable and loved. French Bulldogs are famous for their cute and distinctive bat-like ears, and owners often wonder when their puppy's ears will stand up. Typically, French Bulldog puppies' ears will begin to stand up between weeks of age. However, it's not unusual for some puppies to take longer to develop, and their ears may not stand up until they are several months old. It's essential to note that the ear development process can be different for each puppy. Some may have both ears standing up at the same time, while others may have one ear up and the other down for a while. This variation is normal and not necessarily a cause for concern. As your French Bulldog's ears start to stand up, you may notice some changes in their behavior. They may become more attentive and start to respond to sounds and noises around them. Their ears will also become more sensitive, and they may start to tilt their heads to listen to sounds better. If your French Bulldog's ears are not standing up by the time they reach six months of age, it's worth speaking to your veterinarian. Still, it's important to note that some French Bulldogs' ears may never stand up fully, and this is completely normal and doesn't affect their health or happiness. If your French Bulldog's ears are still down even after they are six months old, there could be a few reasons why. Firstly, it's worth noting that every dog is unique, and some may take longer to develop than others. While most French Bulldog puppies' ears start to stand up between weeks of age, it's not unusual for some puppies to take a bit longer. However, if your French Bulldog's ears are still down past the six-month mark, it's worth speaking to your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. Sometimes, ear infections or other medical conditions can affect the development of your dog's ears. Another reason why your French Bulldog's ears may be down is genetics. It's possible that your dog inherited genes from their parents that affect the shape and position of their ears, resulting in ears that may not stand up fully. Finally, it's essential to remember that not all French Bulldogs' ears will stand up fully, and this is completely normal. Your furry friend will still be adorable and loved, regardless of whether their ears stand up or not. Yes, it is entirely possible for French Bulldog ears to stay down. While many French Bulldog puppies' ears will start to stand up between weeks of age, there is always variation in the development of individual dogs, and some may have ears that do not stand up fully. Additionally, genetics can play a significant role in the shape and development of French Bulldog ears. Some French Bulldogs may inherit genes from their parents that result in ears that do not stand up fully. It's worth noting that a French Bulldog's ear position does not affect their health or happiness. Whether their ears are up or down, your furry friend will still be a beloved member of your family. If you're concerned about your French Bulldog's ears, it's always best to speak to your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. However, if your dog is healthy and happy, don't worry too much about their ears. They will still be adorable and loved just the way they are! The exotic coloring of a French Bulldog, such as lilac , merle , fluffy , platinum , or red fawn , is determined by genetics and is not related to the dog's ear position. The color of a French Bulldog's coat is determined by the interaction between different genes, and the resulting coat color is usually evident from birth. The ear position of a French Bulldog can change as the dog grows and develops, but this is not related to changes in coat color or pattern. It is worth noting that some French Bulldogs may experience changes in their coat color or pattern over time, but this is typically due to factors such as exposure to sunlight, diet, or hormonal changes. Additionally, while a Frenchie's ears may change in position as they grow, it is unlikely to have any impact on the dog's coat color or pattern. It is important to note that the term " Micro French Bulldog " is not a recognized or standardized term by reputable breed organizations, and is often used to describe French Bulldogs that have been bred for a smaller size through breeding practices. In general, the time it takes for a French Bulldog's ears to stand up can vary from dog to dog, and is not necessarily related to the dog's size or breeding. Here are two easy ways to help your French Bulldog's ears stand up: Add Calcium-Rich Foods to Their Diet One way to help your French Bulldog's ears stand up is to make sure they are getting enough calcium in their diet. Calcium is a crucial nutrient that supports bone development and growth, including the cartilage in your dog's ears. You can increase your French Bulldog's calcium intake by adding calcium-rich foods to their diet. Foods like yogurt, cheese, and bone broth are excellent sources of calcium and can help support the development of your dog's ears. Consult Your Vet About Calcium Injections or Supplements If you're concerned about your French Bulldog's ear development or think they may need additional calcium, speak to your veterinarian about the best course of action. Your veterinarian can advise you on the appropriate dosage and form of calcium to give your dog, as well as monitor their health to ensure they are not experiencing any negative side effects. In addition to discussing calcium supplementation with your veterinarian, they can also rule out any underlying health issues that may be affecting your French Bulldog's ear development. If there are any health concerns, your veterinarian can provide treatment or recommend lifestyle changes that can help support your dog's overall health and wellbeing. What Taping Method Is the Best? While there are several methods of taping French Bulldog ears, there is no one "best" method that works for all dogs. Each dog is unique, and their ear development can vary, so what works for one dog may not work for another. However, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind when taping French Bulldog ears. First, it's important to start taping as early as possible, ideally between weeks of age when the ears are still soft and pliable. This can help encourage the ears to stand up and prevent them from flopping over. When taping, use a soft, non-irritating tape, such as a surgical or athletic tape, and avoid using anything too sticky that can pull or damage the skin. It's also important to wrap the tape gently but securely around the base of the ear, creating a slight fold in the ear to help encourage it to stand up. Taping Their Ears Step-By-Step Guide It's essential to follow proper techniques and guidelines to avoid causing any discomfort or injury to your dog. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to tape your French Bulldog's ears: Clean the ears: Before taping your French Bulldog's ears, make sure they are clean and dry. Use a gentle, pet-friendly ear cleaner to clean the inside of their ears, being careful not to insert the cleaner too far into the ear canal. Prepare the tape: Use a soft, non-irritating tape, such as a surgical or athletic tape, and cut it into strips that are about inches long. Apply the tape: Starting at the base of your French Bulldog's ear, gently fold the ear over and wrap the tape around the base of the ear, creating a slight fold in the ear to help encourage it to stand up. Be sure to wrap the tape gently but securely, avoiding any gaps or wrinkles. Continue wrapping: Continue wrapping the tape around the ear, overlapping each strip of tape slightly, until you reach the tip of the ear. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight, as this can cause discomfort or injury to your dog. Monitor your dog: Check your French Bulldog's ears regularly to make sure they are not becoming irritated or uncomfortable. If you notice any signs of discomfort or injury, remove the tape immediately and speak to your veterinarian. Remove the tape: After a few days or a week, remove the tape and let your French Bulldog's ears rest for a few days before taping them again. It's important to give your dog's ears time to rest between taping to avoid irritation or injury. It's essential to remember that taping should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian or experienced breeder to ensure that it is done correctly and safely. While taping can be helpful in encouraging ear development, it's not a guarantee that your French Bulldog's ears will stand up. Some dogs may still have ears that do not stand up fully, even with taping. If you have to bandage your French Bulldog's ears, it's important to change the bandage regularly to ensure that it remains clean and dry, and to prevent any irritation or discomfort to your dog's ears. The frequency of bandage changes will depend on your dog's individual needs and the severity of the issue being treated. In general, most veterinarians will recommend changing the bandage at least once a day, and possibly more frequently if the bandage becomes soiled or wet. It's important to monitor your French Bulldog's ears closely while they are bandaged to ensure that the bandage is not too tight or causing any irritation or discomfort. If you notice any signs of irritation or if your dog seems uncomfortable, it's important to remove the bandage immediately and speak to your veterinarian. In addition to changing the bandage regularly, it's important to keep the ears clean and dry, as excess moisture can lead to infection or other issues. Use a gentle ear cleaner to clean the inside of your dog's ears, being careful not to insert the cleaner too far into the ear canal. If you have any concerns about your French Bulldog's ear health or need guidance on how often to change a bandage, it's always best to speak to your veterinarian for advice. Taping French Bulldog ears is generally safe and can be an effective way to encourage ear development and encourage them to stand up. However, improper taping techniques or leaving the tape on for too long can increase the risk of ear infections or other ear-related issues. When taping French Bulldog ears, it's essential to use a soft, non-irritating tape and to wrap the tape gently but securely around the base of the ear. If the tape is too tight or the ears are taped for too long, it can create a warm and moist environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria and yeast, leading to ear infections or other issues. It's also important to monitor your French Bulldog's ears closely while they are taped, checking for any signs of discomfort or irritation. If your dog seems uncomfortable or if you notice any redness or discharge, it's important to remove the tape immediately and speak to your veterinarian. If your French Bulldog already has an ear infection or is prone to ear-related issues, it may be best to avoid taping their ears or to discuss other options with your veterinarian. Taping French Bulldog ears can cause damage if it's not done correctly or if the tape is left on for too long. Taping too tightly can cut off circulation to the ears, leading to discomfort, pain, and even tissue damage. Similarly, leaving the tape on for too long can cause irritation, rubbing, or even open wounds. It's important to note that taping French Bulldog ears should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian or experienced breeder to ensure that it is done correctly and safely. The taping should be done with a soft, non-irritating tape and be wrapped gently but securely around the base of the ear. The length of time that taping French Bulldog ears should continue varies from dog to dog and depends on the individual dog's ear development. In general, taping should be done consistently for several weeks, typically between weeks, and should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian or experienced breeder. If you're concerned about your French Bulldog's ear development or think they may need additional support, it's best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog. One benefit of floppy ears is that they can help protect your dog's ear canal. When a dog's ears stand up, the ear canal is more exposed, making it more susceptible to debris and dirt. Floppy ears, on the other hand, provide a natural barrier, helping to keep your dog's ears clean and free from irritants. Additionally, floppy ears can give French Bulldogs a more laid-back, relaxed appearance, which many people find endearing. Floppy ears can also make your dog more approachable to other dogs and people, as they may appear less intimidating with soft, floppy ears. Finally, it's important to remember that a French Bulldog's ear position does not affect their health or happiness. Your French Bulldog can lead a happy and full life no matter how their ears stand. Conclusion French Bulldog ears can be a unique and distinctive feature of this lovable breed, and many owners want to ensure that their dog's ears stand up as they grow. While taping the ears can be helpful in encouraging ear development, it's important to do so under the guidance of a veterinarian or experienced breeder to ensure that it is done correctly and safely. It's also important to note that not all French Bulldogs' ears will stand up fully, and this is completely normal. Whether your French Bulldog's ears stand up or not, they will still be a beloved member of your family, and it's important to prioritize their health and wellbeing above all else. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Give them some treats or cuddles to help them relax. Be careful not to insert the applicator tip too deeply. Massage the base of the ear for 20—30 seconds— gently massage the base of the ear for about seconds. This will help the solution break up any dirt, wax or debris in the ear. This is normal and will help remove any loosened debris. Wipe away any excess debris or ear cleaning solution— use a cotton ball or pad to gently wipe away any excess debris or ear cleaning solution from the ear. Repeat for the other ear— repeat the process for the other ear, using a new cotton ball or pad and fresh cleaning solution. French Bulldog Ear Timeline weeks— French Bulldog puppies are born with their ears closed and flat against their heads. Bat Ears These are the typical Frenchie ears that we all know and love. The AKC says they have to be set up high on the head, but not too close together. The AKC states… Known as the bat ear, broad at the base, elongated, with round top, set high on the head but not too close together, and carried erect with the orifice to the front. The leather of the ear fine and soft. Other than bat ears is a disqualification. Close share Copy link The French Bulldog is a lively, fun-loving, and intelligent breed, unlike the rest. In a way, you can refer to this cute little pet as a distant cousin of the English Bulldog. But the intriguing thing about the French Bulldogs ears is that they all don't look the same; while some may appear floppy, others may be pointing up. Curiously, this distinction or variation in the appearance of French Bulldog ears provides a source of concern for some Frenchie owners, especially those with floppy ears. Frenchie Shop interacted with some French Bulldog owners and gathered some of their points of concern and questions, most common among them, in order to provide some answers that may be soothing. Almost all French Bulldogs have floppy ears at birth. So, if you noticed that your French Bulldog puppy's ears are floppy you need not worry you wanted your cutie's ears to be pointing up like a bat's because it is not peculiar to you, that's how Frenchie's are born. There's no straight-jacket answer to this question. It may take a couple of weeks, and sometimes, you may start seeing the signs of it springing up within days. It would depend on the level and speed of development of each Frenchie. But ideally, your Frenchie's Ear should start standing at 7 weeks old. There's nothing wrong. When eventually your French Bulldog's ears start standing up, it is not all the time and all Frenchies that both ears rise up at the same time and at the same pace. You might notice that one ear is up and one is down. It could also happen that the following day, the one ear that was down the previous day could be standing up and the one standing up the previous day could go floppy. Sometimes both ears may start going up and in a day or two, both ears or one of them might go down. Also, one ear may be up weeks before the other even starts to show any sign of rising up. The French Bulldog ears do all sorts of wonky things. As a matter of fact, you should see the tricky rise and fall as an entertaining and interesting process. It is actually entertaining and interesting, and not worrisome. There's no cause for alarm. One thing you must know is that each puppy is on his or her own time table, even puppies from the same litter. Some puppy's ear may be perfectly erect at their 4th week while some may take up to 10 weeks. Like I said earlier, at the 7th week, your puppy's ears should already have started showing signs of rising up. If you noticed this, it is better to let the ears stand on their own. But, if at that time you haven't noticed any such sign, there are ways you can help your Puppy's ears to stand up. Use the following techniques: 1. Tape each ear individually with 1. Make sure the ear is kept flat while taping to avoid a wrinkled-looking ear base. Orient ears to the top where they would normally stand erect. Once in the erect position of 11 and 1 O'Clock, tape a connecting bridge from one ear to the other. Leave tape in place for between four to five days, then make a small cut at the base of the tape and gently peel off to remove the tape. We hope these few answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about French Bulldog ears are helpful to you and will help you achieve the perfect ear shape that you want for your French Bulldog. You are most welcome to share with us your experience while your Frenchie's ears were beginning to stand, or what challenges you are facing at the moment with them. Owning a French bulldog is pretty similar to owning a child. When everybody has their own opinions they might make you worry about your Frenchie even if he or she is perfectly healthy. Everywhere you look, you see a Frenchie with erect ears. Their ears make them look unique and just dandy. Then you look at your Frenchie puppy and his or her ears are down. You shouldn't worry about whether or not his or her ears are down, here's why. It important for you to know that all French bulldogs are born with floppy ears, this is absolutely normal. As they grow, their ears gradually become erect, there really is no exact time for this growth to occur. French bulldogs can get their erect ears anytime from 6 weeks to 18 months. There is no hurry. When the Frenchie puppy is still young, their body uses up all of the calcium for growing teeth. During this period, his or her ears may go up, may go up and down, may go droopy, may go up one a time or may not go up at all. Here are some answers to questions you may have. As it has been mentioned, there is no exact time, each puppy is an individual and will develop differently. Some French bulldogs get their erect ears before they are separated from their mother but that is not always the case. Sometimes the ears are erect but droopy at the top. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Their ears being upward or droopy does not in any way affect their personality. As long you clean them regularly and thoroughly, droopy ears have no health-related issues. However, if you really want to give them a little help, there are a few things you can do. But if I happened to own a French bulldog puppy with droopy ears, I would never tape them up so taping a French Bulldog ears is not a recommended method by anyone here at the Frenchiestore. Droopy or floppy ears can give the French bulldog dog a bit of character, a super-cute look and the amusement they bring doubles. It is recommended that you hold on and let nature take its course. The other method would be trying to even or up the calcium levels in your Frenchie. There are a number of ways to figure out whether or not your French Bulldog is a pure breed. They can be easily distinguished from other dogs if you know what to look for. Body Structure French bulldogs are relatively small. Their height is about 10 — 13 inches and they usually weigh under 28 pounds. French bulldogs are known for erect ears with wide bases and rounded tips. A purebred French bulldog will almost certainly have bat ears. This is not to say that they might not be delays in the ears becoming erect. French bulldogs usually have dark brown, almost black eyes. Although in some cases, a French bulldog could have light brown eyes or even green in some of the rare colors Frenchies. French bulldogs also have a short tail that can either be straight or screwed and they hang low below their backs. French bulldogs have a fairly muscular build. With their short, well-rounded bodies, they are usually seen walking actively and unrestrained. Coat The coat of a French bulldog is usually short and smooth. They have soft, loose skin which may form wrinkles around the head and shoulders of the Frenchie. French bulldogs usually have light color bases that come in white, fawn, cream or any combination of these colors. French bulldogs can also have other colors in patterned forms. Some of them include brindle, piebald, black masks, black shading and white markings. The most common of these patterns is the brindle. The brindle pattern could either be sparse or heavily concentrated so that the base color is almost completely hidden. Temperament French bulldogs are incredibly affectionate, they give a lot of love and this makes them great family pets. French bulldogs are alert and attentive, well, they hear you, obeying is another matter. But their energy levels range from low to average. French bulldogs exercise some enviable levels of patience unlike many dog breeds. Even as puppies, they are calmer than most other dogs. French bulldogs are social and usually welcoming towards strangers. They react well to new things and are fairly adaptable. French bulldogs seem to be laid back and easy going. Lookalikes There are a number of dog breeds that have similar appearances to a French bulldog. Sometimes you may even have to do a double take, but if you know what to look for, it is easier to know a French bulldog French Bulldog and English Bulldog: Although the French bulldog and the English bulldog are both bulldogs and naturally have a lot of similarities, there are differences. The English bulldog is bigger and they do not have bat ears. French Bulldog and Boston Terrier: The Boston Terrier bears a striking resemblance to the French bulldog and are commonly confused for one another. But there are a few differences. The Boston Terrier is taller than the French bulldog with about 2 to 4 inches. And though they share similar coat colors and texture, the Boston Terrier can also be seen in seal or black. French bulldogs weigh more. They also have tipped ears instead of a rounder shape than the Frenchie dog. Pugs are smaller than Frenchies, being 10 — 14 inches tall and they have floppy ears rather than erect ears. They have curly tails unlike the short tails of the Frenchie. French Bulldog and Pitbull: American pit bulls have some things in common with a Frenchie but these pit bulls are larger, weighing up to 78 pounds. Both breeds have similar coats though pit bulls can be seen in blue, gray, white, tan, brown, red, yellow or black. However, bull terriers are larger than Frenchies, they weigh as much as 45 pounds — 80 pounds. Bull terriers usually have smooth and dense coats that come in brown white, brindle, black or tricolor. They also have longer muzzle. To find out whether or not your French bulldog is a pure breed, you should consult your vet with any questions or suspicions you may have. To prevent this, always get your Frenchie from reputable breeders. Erect or floppy ears should not determine the amount of love you give to your Frenchie. Be rest assured, nothing is wrong, they deserve all your love and care. Leave a comment. Frenchies win our hearts with their wrinkled little faces and large, bat-like ears. To a French Bulldog, down-turned ears are perfectly natural. Frenchies are born with floppy ears. As the puppies teeth, their little ears begin to perk up. However, there is no precise timetable for this. Sometimes ears will spring up in a matter of days. But it usually takes closer to ten weeks. On occasion, one ear will pop up before the other, creating an adorably lopsided appearance. And sometimes they stick out on either side like bicycle handles. None of this is cause for concern. Each puppy develops differently, even if they come from the same litter. How do I fix it? First, make sure you give your French Bulldog time to grow at his or her own pace. Get some masking tape that is about 1. Gently wrap one strip of tape around each individual ear and ensure that the ear is flat when you do this. Use a longer strip of tape to connect the ears and hold them erect. Leave the tape on like this for four or five days and countless hilarious photos. You may have to repeat this process several times over the course of a few months to see results. Some websites suggest feeding your Frenchie calcium supplements to assist their ears in rising during the teething process. But this method is unproven, particularly because ears are made of cartilage, not bone. Your pup has a unique body that will grow and change in time. That way, whenever they reach full perkiness, those trademark bat ears will be healthy and ready to listen to your commands. Or at least, to hear them. They will be soft and floppy when born. In fact, many breeders will say you should even be worried about floppy ear development until the 8-month mark 32 weeks , as puppies all develop at different rates. But what is the reason for all of this, and what can you do about a Frenchie with floppy ears? Frenchies have very big ears when they are puppies. They look completely out of proportion as you can see in this photo of our dog Claude when he was younger compared to being an adult — he was 7 months old in this shot on the left, and 3 years on the right, and had no issue with his ear development. Our Frenchie never had floppy ears. As you can imagine, with ears this big and heavy, it takes a lot of strong ear cartilage to make them stand up and not flop down. So why do some French Bulldogs have floppy ears, and other not? This is the barometer that Frenchie experts use with regards to floppy ears. As the puppy progresses through the teething stage, the cartilage grows strong enough to keep the ears standing up versus their current floppy appearance. Handy Hint: To find out more about teething and how long it takes, read the guide to Frenchie teething that I previously published. They can even go up and down The floppy ears can go up and come back down again during the teething period. Just wait until your Frenchie has stopped teething — and this can be as old as 7 to 8 months — before you make any judgements. Their ears could be floppy, erect, and floppy again at during this time. The first thing I would do is ask the breeder if floppy ears is a hereditary thing. When should you be worried? If you fall into that category, when it the time to panic and take action? Not necessarily, but it might be wise to start the fix before this date… and here are some ways you can do so — most people will start the fixes at around 5 to 6 months. The ideas below are all ones that I have been found via social media and blog posts. All of the methods below should be used before you consider taping. You can start doing this from the age your puppy comes home to live with you from 8 weeks and on: 1. Consult with you vet first Assuming you have spoken to the breeder and ruled out any hereditary ear floppiness, you should talk with your vet first… before you even taking the online advice from a blog, even like mine! Get the vet to do a health check-up to see if there are any development issues. These can include bone spurts, arthritis and joint problems in a growing Frenchie puppy. Instead, give your puppy small amounts of foods such as cottage cheese or yogurt. These are said to encourage calcium growth in their ears. I have heard that this could be a myth though, so ask your vet. Add a cartilage encouraging supplement to their diet Some owners swear by a supplement called glucosamine. You can buy these tablets on Amazon , which are the number 1 supplement according to vets. Give them chew toys Chewing not only helps your Frenchie with teething but the physical act can also strengthen muscle essential for ear development. Dogs have a temporalis muscle at the top of their jaw and under their ear. Strong temporalis muscle helps ear to stand up… therefore, lots of chewing means a reduction in floppy ears. Handy Hint: Find out what chew toys I recommend for Frenchies with this selection of the best chewing toys on the market. I personally think Frenchies with floppy ears look cute, but, each to their own… people who have done this successfully have done so around the 5 to 6-month age. Other reasons for floppy ears Whilst most French Bulldog ears will become erect after the teething phases, there will be some cases where floppy ears, either as a pair or just one, will remain floppy after this point and will never fix. Your vet will be able to diagnose and explain more, but here are the reasons other than teething I found for floppy Frenchie ears: Genetics and breeding: There is a small market for Frenchies with floppy ears. Also known as French Bulldogs with rose ears, breeders will try to engineer puppies with ears that never stand up. This is what it means if you see Frenchies with rose ears for sale. Injury: Frenchie puppies are extremely energetic and can get themselves into various scrapes, some of which could be traumatic to the ears. An ear could get cut, squeezed, or suffer some form of trauma — this can often result in a French Bulldog with one floppy ear only. Frenchie puppies are born deaf with sealed shut ears. After 3 weeks, their ears will start to open. Frenchie ears will stand up between the ages of 5 to 15 weeks. Frenchies will stop teething at around 7 to 8 months. During this period ears can be floppy, up, down, and in varying orders! Frenchie ears should, in most cases, all stand up after 8 months at the latest. After a couple of weeks went back up and never done again. They are a living creature, not a show piece. Leave their ears alone and if one is a bit floppy, just embrace the difference as it will be part of their character! They were up and down as a puppy but eventually never went up again. We think he looks amazing though and love him to bits. She had her dog DNA tested and he had a slight bit of pug in him! They go back up with time. Like ourselves, dogs are not designed to be perfect, how saddening this topic is. A common fear and concern for new Frenchie owners is wondering if their Frenchie is destined to have floppy ears or only one ear that is erect. Their ears do all kinds of wonky things in the teething stage. For example, one ear might be up and one might be down, then the next day opposite ears will stand and lay down. One or two ears might start going up, and then the next day they both might be down. One ear may be up weeks before the other ear stands up. Also, when they do start standing up they are often not completely erect they look more like airplane wings. Each puppy is on his or her own time table, even puppies from the same litter. We have had several puppies with perfectly erect ears at 4 weeks old and other puppies which have taken 10 weeks or longer for their ears to stand up perfectly straight. Usually, if the ears are going to go up on their own without help, you will see signs that they are starting to go up by about 7 weeks. In these cases, it is normally best to just let them go up on their own. In these cases, it is necessary to train the ears for 3 to 5 days by taping them as explained below. Occasionally, with particularly stubborn ears, it will be necessary to tape them up a couple of times, or possibly even more. As mentioned, the majority of the time they are up on their own between 4 — 10 weeks, but if they are showing no signs of going up on their own at 8 weeks, it is time to consider giving them a little help. The best way we have found to tape the ears is to start by taping each ear individually with 1. Start by tearing off a small piece of tape just long enough to loosely wrap around the ear one time front and back towards the base of the ear. Make sure that the ear is kept flat when wrapped or when you take the tape off you will see the folds where the ear was bent and crinkled. Do the exact same thing on the other ear. The pictures below show only one wrap of tape on the lower ear, but we have found from experience that it is better to put at least two wraps of tape on each ear so that they are taped from the extreme base to the extreme tip to provide the best support. Then tape a bridge from one ear to the other. Do so by tearing off a piece of tape that is just long enough to reach from the outer side of one ear to the outer side of the other. Do this on the front and back sides to provide more support and so that the sticky sides of the tape are stuck together. Hopefully the pictures will help give you a better idea. Leave the tape in place for several days generally no more than 5 and then gently remove it we usually use scissors to cut the tape on the underside of the ear and then gently peal it off. If the ears were close to being ready to stand up on their own they should stay up indefinitely. Occasionally, they will need to be re-taped a day or two later, and very rarely a third time. But, with patience and perseverance, you will be rewarded with beautiful, erect Frenchie ears.
Thank you! If you are looking to add to your fur family, consider adopting a dog. You will save the life of that dog and allow another to come into the shelter to be saved. Golden retrievers are well-mannered, loyal companions that love to play. They love meeting new people, and their enthusiasm is contagious. Goldens make great family dogs and hiking partners. Check out all 25 golden retrievers looking for their forever homes and share with a friend. Bruce Wayne Bruce is a 7-year-old sweetheart who is looking for a forever home. He loves to go for car rides and is completely housebroken. This perfect gentleman knows basic commands and just wants a loving home where he can cuddle next to his family at night. The rescue said his transition into a new home would be easier if he was the only dog but he is learning that other dogs mean him no harm. Bruce loves everyone he meets but will bark to alert his family someone is there. If this faithful pup sounds like the perfect match for you, you can find out more by clicking here. The playful girl will need a home with a fenced in yard to play fetch and run around. Does Layla sound like the perfect dog for you? Adopt her. He has the biggest heart and just wants to find a family who will love him the way he is. He gets around just fine thanks to a custom wheelchair. If you are ready to experience unconditional love — adopt him! The six-year-old loves attention and looking at herself in the mirror. She would do best in a home with another dog as she is unsure of loud noises and new things. A patient family with a fenced in yard would be perfect for Peaches. They arrived with three other siblings but these two would love to find a home together. They are incredibly smart, eager to learn, and ready for a forever home. If you are able to open your heart and home to two adorable puppies click here. The seven-year-old gentle giant loves children and people. He does not do well with other male dogs but could live in a home with a female dog. If this handsome boy caught your eye, you can adopt him here. While he still has bursts of energy, he prefers attention over play and has not shown any interest in playing fetch. Adopt him here. He can be a bit bossy so a home with older children or no children would be best. Rocko is too interested in cats to live with them but can live with another dog, after a meet-and-greet. Looking for an adventure buddy? Marley Mae is your girl and she loves car rides. Daily walks will be required but fresh air and exercise is good for everyone. Oliver is a love bug and just wants a family of his own. If you are willing to spoil him with attention and cuddles, apply to adopt him here. Boyd is currently in Texas looking for a loving forever home. Adopt him! The gorgeous pup will shed and is still learning to walk on a leash. He needs a family who will teach him basic commands and house train him. If you are ready for a lifetime of fun and learning, apply to adopt Asher here. Missy is a friendly gal rescue estimates she is 18! She prefers a home without children. Let her show you how to enjoy the little things in life, like a relaxing care ride. If she is the dog you have been looking for, adopt her here. Colin is 7 years young and a total sweetheart. He enjoys walks and meeting new people but also loves cuddling. The affectionate boy does have separation anxiety so he would do best with a homebody. She is 5-years-old and gets along well with other dogs. This loving girl is looking for a forever home. Adopt her! He needs a family that will take the time to teach him how to be a good boy. He is a year-old boy who loves other dogs, cats, and children. He is looking to enjoy his golden years with a loving family. Bring him home! He is missing hair due to a skin infection that is being treated by a vet. This good boy is ready for his forever home. She just wants a family of her own to go on walks and cuddle with. Anyone ready to give her a life of luxury and love her unconditionally can adopt her here. The young boy loves to play with a ball and will do so for hours. He loves people and would do best with a family that prefers to stay in or take him along on adventures. He loves treats and is a quick learner. An active family would be the best fit for Samson as he needs to go on a couple mile walk every day. He gets along well with other dogs and just wants a home of his own. Does he sound like the perfect dog for you? He loves going for walks and to the beach. As soon as he sees his leash his tail starts to wag. While he is always up for adventure, the big fella also loves to relax and cuddle. If you are looking for a best friend who will never leave your side, then look no further. Adopt Harlow here! The golden mix boy is inquisitive and energetic. He needs a patient family who will teach him how to be a good boy and watch him grow into his huge paws. She walks well on a leash and is as sweet as can be. She enjoys playing with other dogs but can be a bit bossy. The sweet dog is looking for a calm and quiet home to enjoy his golden years. He enjoys cuddling and going for short walks. FAQ about golden retrievers and how to start the process of adoption. What is the lifespan of a golden retriever? Golden retrievers are active dogs with a life span of years. How much exercise does a golden retriever need? The breed is part of the sporting group and was originally bred to retrieve ducks and fowls for hunters. They need daily exercise consisting of a walk, a game of fetch, or a trip to the beach. Ideally, they should have 60 minutes of intense exercise a day and a great way to achieve that is through hiking. How to adopt a golden retriever? If you think a golden retriever is the right dog for you, contact your local shelter. Be sure that your lifestyle is a fit for a golden and consider adopting an older dog. No matter what type of companion you are looking for, you can find a perfect fit in a rescue pet. Puppy pads Create a Schedule Golden Retriever pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. It can even grow louder as they age. Moderate Training Golden Retrievers responds well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. Available Goldens Available Retrievers Featured below are just some of the wonderful golden retrievers, unique golden retriever blends and retriever cousins we have available for adoption. Each week we accept additional dogs into our program. They receive veterinary checkups and are moved to foster homes for evaluation. They also complete any required medical treatments needed prior to adoption while they are in foster care. With your support, you will see many of these dogs appear on this page someday available for adoption! Please help these special pups and sign up today! In addition to our Healing Hearts dogs in rescue, we have new arrivals who have just started their mandatory observation period in foster care. Click here for our important how to adopt information and application. Inquiries can be forwarded to info grrmf. If you have never considered adopting a golden retriever blend, please consider this option. These sweet dogs are each so unique because another breed is blended with a golden retriever. They typically are smaller than a golden which may work better for your home environment or lifestyle. They truly are one-of-a-kind furry companions that can give you a lifetime of love and devotion! The adoption time frame for any of our dogs will vary based on the qualities you desire in your furry friend, the needs of your family, the amount of dogs available and the characteristics of the dogs we get into our program. Our volunteers work very hard to individually match each dog to the family who can meet their important needs. Thank you for wanting to add a rescue to your family! Be sure to click on the photos below for a close up view — please check back often for updates. Oh where oh where did that doggie I saw here go? Likely they are now adopted and click here to see their happy face!
Your dog may have simply received a face full of pollen or dust, and the increased tear production is working to solve the problem. But if their eyes continue to be watery or your dog develops red, painful eyes or other types of eye discharge, make an appointment with your veterinarian. Reddish-Brown Tear Stains Light-colored dogs often develop a reddish-brown discoloration to the fur near the inner corner of their eyes. This occurs because tears contain a pigment called porphyrin that turns reddish-brown with prolonged exposure to air. In the absence of other problems, tear staining in this area is normal and is just a cosmetic concern. With fewer tears, the body tries to compensate by making more mucus to lubricate the eyes. Left untreated, KCS can result in severe discomfort and blindness. Yellow or Green Eye Discharge A dog whose eyes produce yellow or green discharge often has an eye infection, particularly if eye redness and discomfort are also evident. Sometimes what looks to be an eye infection is actually a sign that a dog has a systemic illness or a problem affecting the respiratory tract, nervous system, or other part of the body. Any dog who looks like they might have an eye infection should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Featured Image: iStock. Jennifer Coates is an accomplished veterinarian, writer, editor, and consultant with years of experience in the fields of veterinary.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Rubbing their eyes Why does my Goldendoodle have goopy eyes? Your Goldendoodle could have goopy eyes due to allergies, infections, injury, dry eye, tear duct problems, inflammation, conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, epiphora, glaucoma, or even tumors, you noticed any other signs, you should take them to the vet for a check-up. After wiping every dirt or debris, use makeup remover pads to keep their eyes dry, you can do it twice a day to make sure that there is nothing making them uncomfortable. Is it normal for Goldendoodles to have eye boogers? Yes, it can be normal for Goldendoodles to have eye boogers especially if their eyelashes are covering their eye it can cause eye boogers. They can also have eye boogers if there is a wind on their face or debris or dust in their eyes. However, you can check the signs above and compare them to what your dog is displaying. If you liked this article, you can share it with your friends and family, and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. Related Questions Do Goldendoodles have eye problems? Why does my Goldendoodle have boogers all the time? Will dog conjunctivitis go away by itself? No, conjunctivitis will not go away by itself because it can cause permanent damage to the cornea and medical treatment must be done because if you leave it can eventually lead to vision loss, so as soon as you notice the signs of conjunctivitis, take them to the vet. Check out the best and healthiest foods for golden retrievers at every age here — Dry, Wet, Homemade Recipes, and Treats! Taking a walk? These are the best leashes, collars, and harnesses for the buck that you can find. By Jennifer Nelson The longer your Goldendoodle is a part of your family , the more likely it is that you will notice little health problems or other concerns that will show up. Some of these are serious and others, like the eye boogers that sometimes form at the edges of the eyes, are not as big of a deal. But you may be curious as to why your Goldendoodle does get eye boogers in the first place. These may be because of allergies, irritants, dryness, or an infection. Usually, simply wiping them clean is sufficient maintenance but if they persist or get worse, you should take your Goldendoodle to the vet to make sure their eye boogers are not a symptom of something more serious. Dogs are going to get eye discharge because of a variety of different reasons. Some will get them from allergies. When the seasons start to change, your dog can get irritated in the eyes, just like a lot of humans do. If this becomes a big issue, you may want to see if there are some allergy options out there for the dog with your vet. Your Goldendoodle can also get eye discharge because their eyes are dry. This is often a temporary solution and one that is going to clear up all on its own. If the dog is sick, then your vet may prescribe some eye drops to help and keep the eyes moisturized before they get injured from being dry. In some cases, if dry eyes seem to be a more common problem, then you can see if a permanent prescription is the right option for you. Irritation from the environment could cause the eyes to dry out and this eye discharge to happen. If you have changed up some of the cleaning supplies you use around the home, have candles lit, or the outside weather is different, then this can all affect your Goldendoodle as well. Always pay attention to the environment that is around your dog. Some dog breeds tend to be more prone to this kind of issue compared to others. And even individual dogs can run into more problems than others. Sometimes the eye discharge is going to come from the natural fluids in the body of the dog and it is just something you will need to deal with. Frequent cleaning of the eyes will make a big difference on this one. When your dog gets sick and catches an infection, you are more likely to see eye boogers show up around the eyes. These will need to be cleaned out often to make sure that the infection does not get worse. Be diligent with this to help keep your dog safe. One of the most common causes for eye discharge and these eye boogers is an overactive tear duct. When the tear duct is overactive, it is naturally going to have a lot of discharge. Keeping the area clean can be the best way to help the eyes and make sure that it does not develop into an infection. If your Goldendoodle has eye discharge, it is important to make sure the area around the eyes is as clean as possible. Cleaning this area will help make sure that an infection is not going to happen and that the eyes can stay healthy. There are a few different methods that you can use to do this, but the important part is to do it frequently enough to prevent infections and to keep the eyes clean. One method is to use some warm water on a cotton ball either with some soap or not , and wipe it away gently. If your dog is sensitive to having something near their eyes, you can use the end of a Q-tip dipped into some cleaning solution and do the same thing. A dog-friendly eye wipe can be a good option as well. Be careful how you remove this eye booger! It is common for many pet owners to wait for the eye booger to dry and then they will use their nails to help tease it away from the hair. This can cause some harm to the dog and it has the tendency to knot into the hair and make it discolored along the way. This can increase the risk of bacteria lurking behind and giving your dog an infection. Steps to Help Clean Out the Eye Boogers The sooner you are able to clean out the eyes for your dog, the easier it is to get the mess removed without causing damage to the eyes or having to worry about your dog getting an eye infection. Some of the simple steps that you can use to help clean out the eye gunk for your dog include: Take a cloth and add warm water to it. You can use just the plain water if you are in a hurry or go with a soap or shampoo that is pet friendly to help clean the area. If you do use a dog formula eye wash soap, it is likely to help break down some of the other debris and dirt near the eye. This can keep the eyes cleaner and will reduce the smell and the staining. When ready, slowly wipe away anything that is near the area of the eye for the dog to help get it out of the fur. While you do not want to press down so hard that it harms the dog, try to get all the booger that is down in the fur. You can also use a cotton ball to get a bit closer to the eye if the eye booger seems to be stuck close to it. Rinse out whatever was used on the face often. This helps to make sure that the gunk and the bacteria are not getting put back into the eyes. You will want to rinse out the shampoo or the soap later to help protect your dog as well. Gently dry off all the area around the eye, give your Goldendoodle a big hug, and let them go and play. This is a process that needs to be done every week or so, or anytime that you notice there is an eye booger that is running to the eye. Make sure that you do not use paper towels or tissue to clean out the eyes for your dog. These are going to be too rough on the eyes or they will disintegrate into the fur and can cause more issues than before. For the most part, these dog eye boogers are not going to be a big deal. Your dog is going to get them on occasion and that is not a big deal for them or for you. However, if they show up often and cleaning does not seem to matter all that much, this is a sign that you may need to take a look with your vet to see if there is anything there that is aggravating the eyes or not. If you notice that your dog seems to be in pain or discomfort while handling the eye boogers, this could be a sign that there is an infection and you need to take care of the issue as soon as possible. If the discharge looks like a strange color too, then this is a sign that you will need to visit the vet with your dog. They can be set in the eye from a small irritation and after a quick cleaning of the eyes, your dog will be better and will stop with the problem. Sometimes the issue is caused by an infection or dry eyes, but your vet will be able to work with you to help come up with the right method to handle these and within a few weeks, the eyes will be as good as new. With a little bit of cleaning of the eyes and being careful when you see the eye boogers , you are sure to find the perfect way to keep those eyes clean and help your Goldendoodle be as happy as possible. Tear stains are unsightly, but more importantly, dog eye discharge might indicate a problem that requires vet attention. Clear dog eye discharge might look brown and slightly crusty when it dries. If your dog has colored green eye discharge, yellow eye discharge or another colored eye discharge, schedule a vet appointment immediately. Other signs of a potential problem include squinting, a red-looking eye, or if your dog is rubbing or pawing at his eye. Abnormal eye leakage might signal a dog eye infection or other issues. Kimmitt says. Common causes of dog eye discharge include ulcers, entropion, keratoconjunctivitis sicca and conjunctivitis allergic or bacterial. Entropion is a condition in which the eyelid rolls inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the cornea. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca called dry eye is dryness of the conjunctiva, which is membrane that covers the white part of the eye. Conjunctivitis sometimes called pink eye is inflammation of the eye. Certain breeds are prone to dog eye discharge. Brachycephalic dog breeds like Pugs and Boxers might have slightly more eye leakage than other breeds due to the combination of a short nose and large, round eyes. Poodles and Cocker Spaniels are more prone to blocked tear ducts, too. You can help minimize dog tear stains by wiping the under-eye area frequently and keeping it as dry as possible. You can also try one of the whitening products sold specifically to help with tear stains. Kimmitt advises. Conclusion Causes of Eye Boogers in Dogs Goldendoodles can experience eye boogers for a variety of reasons, from allergies and irritants to dryness and infections. Allergies and irritants can cause a dog's eyes to become itchy, watery, and irritated. This can lead to the formation of eye boogers as the eyes produce more tears than normal in an attempt to flush out the irritant. Dryness can also cause eye boogers as the eyes produce more tears than usual in order to lubricate them. Infections such as conjunctivitis or pink eye can also cause eye boogers, as well as overactive tear ducts or excessive tearing due to corneal ulcers or a visible third eyelid. Foreign bodies such as dust particles or dirt may also get stuck in a dog's eyes, leading to irritation and the formation of eye boogers. In order to treat your Goldendoodles's eye boogers, it is important to first identify the underlying cause. If allergies are suspected, antihistamines may be prescribed by your veterinarian. For dryness, artificial tears or other lubricating drops may be recommended. If infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed. In some cases, surgery may be necessary if there is an underlying issue such as blocked tear ducts or corneal ulcers that need to be addressed. If you notice that your dog has excessive amounts of eye discharge or if it appears yellow-green or pus-like in color, it is important that you take your pet to see a veterinarian immediately for further evaluation and treatment. It is also important to keep an eye on your pet's eyes for any changes in appearance or behavior that could indicate an underlying problem such as infection or injury. By taking these steps you will help ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy for years to come! They can range from mild to severe, and can be caused by a variety of factors. Symptoms of eye boogers in dogs include watery eyes and excessive tearing, yellow or green discharge and pus-like eye discharge, cloudy eyes and tear stained fur around the dog's head, inner eyelids that roll outwards, and prominent eyes. If your dog has any of these severe symptoms, it is important to take them to the vet for a checkup. Your vet may prescribe eye drops or ointments to help clear up the infection. If there is a foreign body in the eye, your vet may recommend gently wiping it away with a cotton ball soaked in warm water. If the issue is more serious, such as corneal ulcers or blocked tear ducts, your vet may recommend surgery or other treatments. Prevention and Treatment of Eye Boogers in Goldendoodles It's normal for dogs to have eye boogers, but if you notice an excessive amount of discharge or a change in color, it could be a sign of something more serious. To prevent and treat eye boogers in dogs, regular eye checkups and cleaning are essential. You can also gently wipe away the discharge with a warm washcloth and use eye drops to lubricate the eyes. It's important to identify and remove any foreign bodies that may be present, as well as treating any underlying infections or blocked tear ducts. In some cases, surgery may be necessary for cherry eye or serious infections that have been left untreated. Pet owners should always consult their veterinarian if they notice any changes in their dog's eyes, such as excessive tearing, yellow or green discharge, cloudy eyes, tear-stained fur around the eyes, bulging eyes, squinted eyes, or other signs of discomfort. Trimming long hair around the eyes can help prevent foreign bodies from entering the eye's surface and causing injury or infection. Flat-faced dog breeds such as pugs and bulldogs require extra caution due to their prominent eyes which can cause excessive pressure on the eyeball if not monitored carefully. If you notice any signs of eye discharge in your dog, gently wipe away any gunk with a wet washcloth or cotton ball. If the discharge is yellow-green or pus-like it could be indicative of an infection that requires medical attention. If there is excess discharge present for more than 24 hours it is recommended that you take your dog to the vet for further examination. When to Seek Medical Attention If you notice any signs of eye discharge in your dog, always seek medical attention right away. Signs of serious eye issues in dogs include yellow-green or pus-like discharge, bulging eyes, squinting or excessive tearing. These symptoms can indicate a variety of injuries and diseases that require prompt treatment. Your vet may recommend antibiotics to treat an infection, or surgery to address certain eye issues such as cherry eye. Pet parents should always be aware of any changes in their pet's eyes and seek medical attention immediately if they suspect something is wrong. Conclusion Eye boogers in Goldendoodles can be a sign of an infection or foreign body, and pet owners should always seek medical attention if they notice any changes in their dog's eyes. Regular eye checkups and cleaning are essential for prevention, as well as identifying and removing any foreign bodies that may be present. With regular visits to the vet, you can help ensure your Goldendoodle stays healthy for years to come! One of the reasons many are so charmed by Goldendoodles is their unique appearance: This curly-coated breed pulls people in with their sweet faces and long eyelashes that accentuate their sparkling, soulful eyes. However, many Goldendoodle owners must be aware that the very traits that first attracted them to their loyal companion may also be linked to potential Goldendoodle health issues. Goldendoodles may experience higher instances of eye-related problems due to their long eyelashes and facial fur, which can attract bacteria or cause irritation. Keep An Eye Out for Potential Issues Despite all your best efforts to pamper and protect your Goldendoodle, eye issues are common and something that your pup is likely to endure. Early detection is always the best prevention. Note: Many of the symptoms exhibited by eye conditions affecting Goldendoodles are very much alike. To avoid more serious health problems and ensure a proper diagnosis, it may be best to take your Goldendoodle to see your veterinarian if they exhibit any of these symptoms. Infections may also be caused by their own long hair that can get trapped in their eyes or tear ducts, leading to infection if not removed. The long strands around their face have the tendency to attract allergens like pollen, mold, and dust, which can irritate those soulful puppy eyes. If your Goldendoodle is experiencing allergies, their eyes may become:3 Red. Our pets are our best friends. Like us, our pets need us to care for them and provide comfort for what ails them. One would want to do a close inspection from nose to tail. The presence of eye discharge can be very disconcerting. However many times it there are simple solutions. Eye discharge is a common symptom and varies from normal to excessive. This could indicate an underlying health condition such as allergies or even a cold. If other symptoms are present such as a runny, crusty nose, or even an excessively dry nose it may be a reason for concern. Itchy skin and paws are other symptoms of allergies. If the eye discharge is minimal it may be normal and is a sign your Golden Doodle has encountered dust or other irritants such as freshly mown lawn. It could be due to a cleaning solution that is commonly used around the house. If your dog has come into contact with a certain fragrance or aerosol it could be enough to cause eye discharge and the problem could cease once the irritant is removed from the environment. Something as simple as fabric spray for deodorizing could be the culprit as well as carpet fresheners. You can take a soft tissue such as unscented kleenex or even a fragrance-free baby wipe and gently wipe the eye discharge if the discharge is soft. If your sweet Golden Doodle has dry and hard eye discharge it is better to use a clean cloth along with warm, not hot water to gently remove the buildup from the eye area. This may require you to rest the warm moist cloth over the discharge for a moment to help break down the buildup so that it is not painful. Sometimes if eye discharge has been an ongoing problem, the tender membranes around the eye area can become sensitive even raw. If this has occurred it might be reasonable to buy an eye cleaning solution designed for dogs. Choose a solution that is gentle and as natural as possible. Consider if your Golden Doodle is causing the irritation themselves. If they have itchy eyes you may notice that the dog rubs the eye area with the paws. This could also be a sign of an environmental or physiological issue. Be sure to take into account the surrounding circumstances in attempting to solve this common issue. If you believe it is becoming painful for the dog or is otherwise affecting their quality of life seek the advice of a veterinarian.
Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Deer Creek Comfort Dogs Shaping future companions for families and those in need of comfort Our family has been raising puppies for over 20 years. Our children have always had a passion for dogs which began our journey and now our grandchildren enjoy growing up with our wonderful dogs by their side. Deer Creek provides emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, service and therapy prospects, canine good citizen dogs as well as family pets. Deer Creek assists our families with puppy selection to help ensure the families get the puppy that will work well with their needs. Someone once said, "Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative" and we hope you choose one of ours. If you are interested in finding your new family member, fill out our puppy application and we will be thrilled to work with you. We recognize that our dogs have the capability of changing peoples' lives on a therapeutic level. Many of our Doodles have become therapy dogs at funeral homes, children's advocacy centers, hospitals and nursing homes, and others have found homes as anxiety, PTSD and emotional support dogs. Learn more about our nonprofit organization Deer Creek Paw Prints at www. Learn More Molly, Rhys, and Beau! View fullsize Both our chocolate Labradoodle and our Poodle are beautiful dogs with excellent temperaments. They are our family pets. Because we begin with a Labradoodle and a Poodle, rather than a Lab and a Poodle, our puppies are much more likely to have the non-shedding Poodle coat. A F1b Labradoodle has been back-crossed to a poodle in an effort to insure a non-shedding coat. Even though most f1b Labradoodles shed very little or not all, it is impossible to guarantee that any dog even doodles or purebred poodles will not shed at all. Hypo- means less hypothermia is having a lower than normal body temperature. No dog can be said to be completely non-allergenic. Studies have shown that doodles are less likely to cause allergies, particularly f1b doodles. The ideal is to keep as much of the Lab head shape and super-friendly personality as possible while getting the non-shedding Poodle coat as well as the dignified, less vocal characteristics of the Poodle. Our Labradoodle methodology is quite simple. First, we get quality dogs. This is why we wanted to have pick of the litter for our Labradoodle and our Poodle and why we only obtained puppies from reputable breeders that we knew we could trust. Second, we try to treat our dogs Labradoodle and Poodle well. We feed our Labradoodle and Poodle high quality food with plenty of protein, and give them wonderful socialization and opportunities for exercise. We have 12 acres along the Enoree River with trails, additional property next to a Greenville state park, and property on Lake Hartwell giving us the opportunity to take the dogs kayaking. We recognize the importance of socializing young Labradoodle puppies so they will not be fearful as they mature. Our Labradoodle puppies have lots of opportunities to play with our children, and water games are definitely on top of the list. Labradoodles love the water and so do my kids, as you can see below. Third, we try to find appropriate families for our Chocolate Labradoodle puppies. To learn more about our process, check out this resource that gives a step-by-step guide between the application to receiving your puppy! A Chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle is not for everyone, and a puppy is not for everyone. If your family is not prepared for a Labradoodle puppy financially, time investment, etc. When can you get your puppy? Because we have only one Labradoodle mother and a couple guardian homes , puppies are available only occasionally. Contact us nathan crockettdoodles. We have a flexible waiting list and offer your deposit back if we do not have the ideal Labradoodle puppy for you within a certain window of time. Sometimes with mini Labradoodles we prefer to wait until they are a little older than 8 weeks because accidents tend to happen more easily with really small puppies. We will take several pictures of you with your Labradoodle puppy. We will send you the pictures for free place them on a USB thumb drive for you , and you will have full copyright privileges to all of the pictures to use at your discretion. You have the option of whether or not the photos appear here on the ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Although we never ship puppies, we will sometimes personally deliver puppies for a reasonable fee. Why should you consider getting a Chocolate Labradoodle from us? If a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy is right for your family, and if you are within driving distance of Greenville, SC, you may want to consider getting a chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle from us. If you read our Labradoodle puppy methodology and like what you read, you should consider adopting one of our puppies. We have a three-year health guarantee on each of our puppies if the forever home continues to feed TLC one year health guarantee on all others. How can you get a Chocolate Labradoodle or Labradoodle mini from us? If you think your family would be a good match for one of our Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppies, then start the conversation by emailing us at nathan crockettdoodles. You will have full access to all pictures and hold the copyright to make as many pictures as you desire. You keep all the pictures. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality collar. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality leash. We give you a bag of high quality dog food. We believe that you should give your new Labradoodle puppy or mini Labradoodle puppy the best food. Instructional materials about crate training and house training. Our goal is to do everything we can to assist in the house training and crate training process. A Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy or any puppy cannot be completely reliable in the house until the puppy is about 6 months old. The simple point is that no matter what some breeders tell you you will be partially involved in the house training process unless you buy an older Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle , but we want to help you with that process. A one-year health guarantee; extended to three years for all who continue to feed TLC. We are concerned with finding really good homes for our Labradoodle and mini Labradoodle puppies. Labradoodle Color To see a list of available colors, check out this page. At ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Ultimately we cannot completely control the color of puppies. Even though chocolate is the most desirable color, we sometimes have puppies of other colors even occasional merles. These puppies, will of course, also make excellent pets. These non-chocolate Labradoodle puppies are also available to great families, but we know that Chocolate Labradoodles are the most desirable. The Labrador Retriever has a short coat that sheds. By breeding the F1 Labradoodle back to an unrelated Poodle, the chances of getting the highly desirable non-shedding Poodle coat increase exponentially. Some F1B Labradoodles are bred back another time to a Poodle in an effort to guarantee a Poodle coat. If high quality dogs are chosen to breed that have the head shape of a Labrador Retriever it is possible to get a puppy that is very similar in many ways to a Labrador, but has the beautiful non-shedding Poodle coat. Both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, helping Labradoodles excel in smarts, train-ability, and a general desire to always please their owner. If you desire a family-friendly, kid loving, medium energy dog that is comfortable inside or outside, that loves the water and the land, you should definitely consider a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle. For more info about Labradoodle puppies or mini Labradoodle puppies, please email nathan crockettdoodles. Check out our sister site miniLabradoodlePuppies. We specialize in Chocolate Labradoodles and mini Labradoodles, but often we have other colors as well. Occasionally someone travels from Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh-Durham or Knoxville, but our proximity to North Carolina and the popularity of Labradoodles in North Carolina make Charlotte and Asheville our most serviced locations. We also have some who are interested from distant states, but we primarily serve the Southeast U. Typically a Black Poodle is bred with a Black Lab, but since black is a dominant color, sometimes another color of poodle red, chocolate, etc , can still have black puppies. Black Labradoodles have become wildly popular for their sweet, lovable nature, familiar black color, low-shedding and hypoallergenic coat characteristics. Labradoodles come in other colors, such as chocolate, yellow, cream, parti-colors, and occasionally red, but some people love the sweet nature of a Black Labradoodle. Many first generation Black Labradoodles f1 will shed. We recommend getting an F1b Black Labradoodle if you're worried about shedding or have dog allergies. Friendly Black Labradoodles One of the most desirable characteristics of the Black Labradoodle is their deep love of people. A Black Labradoodle is the happiest when they are surrounded by people that they love. They are highly intelligent and trainable, Black Labradoodles enjoy the stimulation of training and are eager to please their loved ones so they pick up on the cues very quickly. Some Black Labradoodle puppies receive many of the Poodle characteristics of being reserved, having a coat that is very fine and needs regular trimming. While other Black Labradoodles receive the excitable and almost immature nature of the Labrador Retrievers. As the Black Labradoodle becomes more common and breeders are crossing them with more consistency the discrepancies are becoming less of an issue and the breed is becoming more consistent. It is important to realize that the AKC does not yet recognize Black Labradoodles as an official breed, though most other registrations recognize them. The AKC actually does not yet recognize any of the doodles. Most families that want a wonderful dog, and are not concerned about show events do not care that the AKC does not officially recognize the Black Labradoodle currently. Black Labradoodle Best Breeders The best way to avoid the inconsistencies of the Black Labradoodle breed is to adopt from a reputable breeder. Avoid puppy mills at all cost and make sure that the breeder you buy from is caring for the health and wellness of your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy from before conception until you take your Black Labradoodle home with you. A Black Labradoodle should have a sleek, black coat with no sprinklings of any other color and have a black nose. Talk to your breeder about silver and blue Labradoodles as they often appear black as puppies. Some people prefer the looks of a silver or blue Labradoodle to a Black Labradoodle. A Blue Labradoodle, for instance, will start out looking like a Black Labradoodle, but as it grows its coat will come in a beautiful "blue" color. Although the color is called "blue" in the dog world it is almost a gun metal gray. Silver Labradoodles are a lighter silver color than a Blue Labradoodle. With 17 years of experience in breeding Australian Labradoodles, we pride ourselves on selecting only the best dogs for our breeding program, which in turn ensures that we are producing the best puppies imaginable. We work closely with our licensed vet to perform health testing, including hip and elbow testing; eyes, heart, skin, and patella testing; and a series of genetic tests, on all of our breeding dogs. We provide a temperature controlled, in home my master bedroom environment, with sound therapy to expose your puppy to lifes sounds from an early age. This helps desensitize your puppy to the sounds of life traffic, fireworks, outdoor machinery, crying baby, misc appliances, automobiles, etc. We start crate training at 5 weeks with a soothing heartbeat snuggle puppy to comfort them as they transition to sleeping alone and all the puppies love it and sleep better with minimal crying. We add nutrients and special additives for puppies to their drinking water. We add probiotics to their food for a healthy GI tract and immune system. We make special liver water, gruel, with puppy supplements, dog milk formula to their nutritionally dense food to support eyes, ear, bone, joint, coat and heart health. We expose your puppy to sunlight daily on the deck right outside the puppy nursery area. There is always a plush bedding for their cozy comfort in their play areas for those impromptu naps puppies love. Our puppies are held and played with while being bathed and exposed to water, in our walk-in shower, which builds a positive experience, with water, for their lifetime. Bath time is with a human sitting in this large shower allowing plenty of space for your puppy too roam around and enjoy water in a nurturing experience. The puppies love it instead of being in a sink with a dry human just washing them. Water is actual playtime while they get clean and build positive experiences with being wet. Instead we utilize Puppy Culture, Badass Breeder protocols and tons of love from humans that are passionate and dedicated to what they do. Please feel free to contact us with any questions. We look forward to providing you with your fury best friend! When full grown, these health tested, Australian Labradoodle puppies will be approximately pounds with wavy fleece coats, curly fleece coats or the occasional straighter hair fleece coats. Our puppies can go home as early as 8 weeks old. We can also hold back a puppy if you are interested in training services. Sugar Pine Doodles on Facebook. Would you like to be a guardian for one of our breeding doodles? Please click for our Guardian Home Program to learn more. Find the Next Member of Your Family. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. Life Span Did You Know? A Labradoodle is a popular designer dog breed. It is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. This designer dog breed originated in Australia around .The main goal of the Labradoodle was to create a hypoallergenic guide dog for people living with disabilities who were also allergic to dog fur and dander. Now, they are still a popular choice for service, guide, and therapy dogs and are also a popular companion dog. Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are both friendly, gentle, intelligent, and affectionate dog breeds. The Labradoodle tends to be similar. They are open and friendly and crave human attention and affection. They are happiest when they are with people. Labradoodles also tend to have an energetic and playful personality. They get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and strangers. They are alert enough to bark or let you know when someone is at the door, but they are not generally good watchdogs or guard dogs as they are more interested in making friends. A Labradoodle is a highly adaptable dog breed. They do very well in homes with space to run and they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They also do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat and cold. Because they enjoy being around people, they do not generally like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can also become bored if not given enough attention, exercise, or mental stimulation, which can result in destructive behavior. This dog breed is generally healthy, but they do have the chance of inheriting common health conditions from both of the parent breeds. Some health conditions to be aware of include elbow and hip dysplasia, ear infections, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy. Good breeding practices can reduce the likelihood of passing on many of these health issues. Be sure to talk with the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and ask to see any health clearances; this can help allay potential health concerns. A Labradoodle tends to be eager to please and highly intelligent, which makes them highly trainable. They are a good fit for dog owners of any experience level. As with most dog breeds, Labradoodles respond best to training that is consistent and uses positive reinforcement. There are some grooming tasks that are common to every dog breed. When it comes to coat care, it can vary with a Labradoodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat that is also high maintenance in terms of brushing, trimming, and professional grooming. Labs tend to have a higher shedding coat that needs minimal brushing and grooming. For the most part, a Labradoodle will have a low or non-shedding coat that will need to be brushed a few times a week. But, they can have a higher shedding coat should they take after their Labrador parent. You may also need a few professional grooming sessions throughout the year. Nail trimming once a month is usually enough to keep movement comfortable and prevent longer nails from snagging on things. Proper dental care for your dog will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Drop-down ears are more prone to infection because floppy ears are more likely to trap moisture, dirt, and debris. This will make grooming throughout their life a much more enjoyable process for both you and your dog. It can even become a bonding time for you both as well. Labradoodles tend to be high-energy dogs. They require a few daily walks plus some time to run and play in order to stay happy and healthy. They certainly love to play and you may tire out before they do sometimes. They may calm down a little as they get to be a couple of years old, but they tend to be quite energetic as puppies. Going swimming with your dog , taking a hike with them, going on a trip to the dog park, playing a game of fetch, and more are all great supplemental activities to ensure your Labradoodle gets plenty of exercise. You can even train them to compete in dog sports like dock diving, flyball, agility, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Labradoodle will usually stand between 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 50 and 65 pounds. Labradoodles generally live 12 — 14 years. However, it did not become popular until when the mix was specifically bred to create hypoallergenic guide dogs. Featured Labradoodle Article.
Breeding Labradoodles takes more than just mating two dogs and hoping for the best. It requires lots of research, time, and money to raise the healthiest litters possible. Unfortunately, the soaring demand for Doodles has also attracted Doodle scammers and puppy mills. The Humane Society conducts an extensive review of problematic breeders and puppy mills each year. Likewise, look for breeders who offer at least a two-year health guarantee for all their puppies. Typically, health warranties cover most or all genetic diseases that the parents have been tested for. For more on issues that can plague Labradoodles take a look at our article Doodle Health Issues and Diseases. Additionally, many reputable breeders are also recommended by Gooddog. To become a certified breeder by any of these organizations, the breeder must follow strict health and genetic testing standards, and follow ethical breeding protocols. All puppies are handled from the day they are born. The pups are exposed to children, everyday sounds, sights, and household experiences. What Makes This Breeder Unique? With 17 years of experience in breeding Australian Labradoodles, we pride ourselves on selecting only the best dogs for our breeding program, which in turn ensures that we are producing the best puppies imaginable. We work closely with our licensed vet to perform health testing, including hip and elbow testing; eyes, heart, skin, and patella testing; and a series of genetic tests, on all of our breeding dogs. We provide a temperature controlled, in home my master bedroom environment, with sound therapy to expose your puppy to lifes sounds from an early age. This helps desensitize your puppy to the sounds of life traffic, fireworks, outdoor machinery, crying baby, misc appliances, automobiles, etc. We start crate training at 5 weeks with a soothing heartbeat snuggle puppy to comfort them as they transition to sleeping alone and all the puppies love it and sleep better with minimal crying. We add nutrients and special additives for puppies to their drinking water. We add probiotics to their food for a healthy GI tract and immune system. We make special liver water, gruel, with puppy supplements, dog milk formula to their nutritionally dense food to support eyes, ear, bone, joint, coat and heart health. We expose your puppy to sunlight daily on the deck right outside the puppy nursery area. There is always a plush bedding for their cozy comfort in their play areas for those impromptu naps puppies love. Our puppies are held and played with while being bathed and exposed to water, in our walk-in shower, which builds a positive experience, with water, for their lifetime. Bath time is with a human sitting in this large shower allowing plenty of space for your puppy too roam around and enjoy water in a nurturing experience. The puppies love it instead of being in a sink with a dry human just washing them. Water is actual playtime while they get clean and build positive experiences with being wet. Instead we utilize Puppy Culture, Badass Breeder protocols and tons of love from humans that are passionate and dedicated to what they do. Please feel free to contact us with any questions. We look forward to providing you with your fury best friend! When full grown, these health tested, Australian Labradoodle puppies will be approximately pounds with wavy fleece coats, curly fleece coats or the occasional straighter hair fleece coats. Our puppies can go home as early as 8 weeks old. We can also hold back a puppy if you are interested in training services. Sugar Pine Doodles on Facebook. Would you like to be a guardian for one of our breeding doodles? Please click for our Guardian Home Program to learn more. Find the Next Member of Your Family. In July , Kiah, my Australian Shepherd, was killed and the opportunity to adopt a miniature Labradoodle named Daphne came along. Needless to say, I fell in love with the little bundle of joy that helped me get through the loss of my best friend Kiah. My family had always planned on breeding Australian Shepherds, but after bonding with Daphne and meeting other Labradoodles, I was quickly hooked and Ocean View Labradoodles was born. In , I went back to school for a degree in teaching and needed help if Ocean View was to continue. My parents took an interest in labradoodles as well and Ocean View Labradoodles became a family business. My mom, Sheri, is the main contact person for our puppy families now, especially during the school year! The whelping area is in my bedroom, the playpen when they get older is in the living room, and when the pups are old enough to venture outdoors, an outdoor run area is made available to them during the day. They are introduced to a litter box early on, which will get them started on potty training before they leave Ocean View for their new homes. They will also be socialized with our other dogs, our cat, and children of all ages to provide them with as many experiences as possible to lessen their stress when they leave our home. They have been groomed at least twice by the time they join your family. We feed both our parent dogs and our puppies a holistic dry dog food. Lets Bark About It. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near North Auburn California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. If you have more questions please contact us! Soft, Cuddly, Cute Sure, all dogs are adorable—but Labradoodles are on a whole different level. Friendliest Dispositions Aussie Labradoodles are world-famous for being outgoing and fun. The Uptown Family This might sound cheesy, but we feel like everyone who takes home an Uptown Puppy becomes a member of our family. We offer the best food, supplements and training materials because we want life with your Doodle to be as long-lasting and fun as possible! Perfect Family Pet Do you have kids or other pets? Is your life laid-back or active and on-the-go at all times? The best part about Doodles is that they fit right in with nearly any family. Labradoodles love whatever you love! And you get to pick! Our dogs and customers seem to be pretty happy about that! Highest Northern California Labradoodle Breeder Standards Our breeders follow the highest standards, including litter limitations and retirement ages for our mommy Labradoodles, making sure our mommy Doodles live in loving guardian homes, and ensuring our pups live in the best conditions possible. California Labradoodle Breeder Locations.
Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article. This practice ended in with the Cruelty to Animals Act, but the name has since stuck. The Bulldog eventually made its way over to France with Normandy lace-workers who fled England after being displaced by the industrial revolution. Here in France, the Bulldog was crossed with local French ratters. Ratters were small in size and had large erect ears similar to a bat. Over the years, the size of the companion Bulldog was reduced to a mere 16 — 25 lbs. As the new, smaller French Bulldogs gained popularity in France, they became highly sought after by creatives, such as artists, writers, and fashion designers as well as society ladies and Parisian prostitutes alike! The Frenchie is a compact, muscular dog with a smooth coat, wrinkly face, and pushed in nose. The French Bulldog is a cheerful, fairly low-maintenance companion dog. They are pleasant, affectionate, sweet, and they have a propensity to be very clownish. They are alert, curious, and even-tempered. This breed usually forms a strong bond with one person. While French Bulldogs are generally accepting of strangers and other animals, some males may be aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex. The French Bulldog needs human companionship and attention. If left ignored or unattended for long periods of time, they can become mischievous and depressed. Although somewhat willful at times, they can be trained relatively easily by a patient owner. The French Bulldog is not a loud or hyper breed, but they are very enthusiastic and persistent. As a flat faced breed, the French Bulldog cannot survive outdoors. Its compromised breathing system makes it impossible to regulate its body temperature efficiently, so the French Bulldog has trouble cooling off in hot weather and can easily suffer from heatstroke. Most French Bulldogs are born through cesarean section, as they have very broad heads — even as puppies! Today, the French Bulldog is ranked the 6th most popular of all the dog breeds in the United States. The French Bulldog is in such high demand, in fact, that many of our French Bulldog puppies are reserved for customers who had previously placed special orders for them in advance. To place a special order for a beautiful French Bulldog puppy, call today! August 4,
mini labradoodle puppies for sale in pennsylvania - Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Final Thoughts It is important to know that a 4 month old German Shepherd differs from a puppy of an earlier age. Here, we want to tell you about these differences, about the changes in diet, exercise, and interaction with people and other animals. These doggies are very cute but they do not look like young puppies anymore. They are pretty massive animals that overgrow one foot of height. It is about pounds kg for males and pounds .It means that a puppy gained another 10 pounds during the last month. The puppy grows rapidly. Your boy can be inches cm and the girl inches cm at the shoulder. The coat has changed. They start shedding a lot like an adult dog, too. So, it is very important to brush them regularly — everyday brushing is necessary during this period. The skin is rather sensitive, so loose hair can cause allergies when it contacts the skin and the air. Teething continues. Adult teeth are replacing the milk ones. That is the process lasting for more months. The ears start perking up. Though, they are not stably erect at this age. The ears also can perk up and then fall and lay flat. It is a norm. Puppies at this age do not have strong cartilage. It will strengthen at the age of 5- 6 months. However, if your puppy lives in an environment with very loud sounds, its ears can flatten out because the noise does not allow them to perk up. You should do obedience training, a lot of walking and jogging, playing in the backyard, and other activities. Your puppy already knows that it should be protective of the members of your family. However, it can bark a lot because it is time to develop its vocal cords. Teach it not to do this so much. It is very easy to train a 16 week old German Shepherd puppy because it has a strong desire to please you. Remember that you need strict discipline because your pet can display signs of disobedience at this age as any teenager does. Your 4 month old GSD sleeps about 18 hours per day. Though, the number of hours can depend on the environment because it does not sleep so much if it has many things around to explore. Nevertheless, some puppies prefer short naps in the daytime too. In any case, let your pet have a good rest. Discuss these changes with your veterinarian to pick out the most appropriate daily schedule for better rest. Your puppy can walk effortlessly for about a mile 1. It is always ready to go outside and accompany you wherever you may go. Though, do not overload it with walking. Several walks during the day are a better option. It should get about 2 hours of active playing every day. The puppy learns a lot during its first four months. Everything seems an adventure to it. It is an exciting experience for both your doggy and you. Though, its behavior can be a bit unpredictable at times. So, you need to control it. In general, your 4 month old GSD puppy is entirely healthy, and it continues growing quickly. You need to weigh and measure your pet every time you come to the vet, or you can do it yourself at home. You may also need to get a DNA test to know what health issues to expect from your doggy when it is over 5 years old. This age is the proper time for having the third set of vaccines because they have had the first two already. The third set includes DHPP and rabies. Even if your puppy is healthy and active, you need to continuously watch out for possible disorders. You need to show your puppy to the vet, if you notice such things as changes in behavioral and sleeping patterns, sneezing and coughing, runny eyes or nose, losing weight, decrease in appetite, and other digestion issues, such as diarrhea or vomiting, red and swollen gums, heavy breathing, and excessive urination. Keep your doggy clean and protected. You do not need to bathe it very often — it can be harmful to the production of the natural oils that protect the skin. Brush your puppy every day now because of its excessive shedding. This is connected with the change of the coat from the puppy to an adult one. Grooming and brushing are very important parts of the care. You may also need the help of special grooming salons. Feeding Your 4 month old GSD is a good eater because it grows a lot. It should be fed not fewer than 3 times a day. It should take cups of kibble of natural food per meal. At the end of the fourth month, you can start the transition to two feedings per day. Do not rush to switch your pet to adult food. You can do it only when it is 6-month-old when its growth slows down a bit. You can also offer your GS puppy some treats. Never give your puppy human food or human treats — the latter is rather dangerous and can cause severe health issues. Avoid overfeeding, too. Your dog should not suffer from obesity when it is an adult because there are bad health conditions caused by it. If you decide to feed your puppy a natural raw diet, be careful about its nutritious value and high quality. It can consist of meats, vegetables, and fruits, but nothing fatty and toxic like junk food. Training There are several behavioral problems that you need to handle. The first of them is, of course, potty accidents in the home. Unfortunately, such accidents are pretty common at this age. You need to train your pet to do all its business outdoors. Since German Shepherds are very clever, it will understand very soon what you want from it. You need to be patient and persistent, though. Never show irritation or anger when an accident happens. You need to be encouraging if your puppy does everything correctly during its potty walks, but never punish it if something has gone wrong. One more unpleasant thing at this age is biting and nipping your hands or feet. You need to control it while playing to prevent the formation of a biting habit. Never scream or shout at your pet when it bites you. Your little one can be frightened, and the problem may become worse over months. It will let your puppy know that it is doing something wrong. Chewing furniture or things around can also be frustrating. Your puppy is teething, so it is a common thing now. Chewing helps it remove the milk teeth easily. Keep most things in your house out of its reach. Buy some chew toys, for example, a rubber bone or ball to discourage chewing things. A 4 month old German Shepherd puppy can bark excessively at all unknown or suspicious objects. Barking all the time can become a serious issue for you and your pet over time. Teach your doggy not to bark at something unfamiliar. It only means that your pet needs more training and socialization. Your Shepherd dog at this age does not look like that cute fluffy toy-like cub you once saw and liked. It begins to shape as an adult dog. Now, it continues to grow rapidly. So, the males can be inches cm and the females grow as tall as inches cm at the shoulder. How much should a 4 month old German Shepherd weight? Follow the weight of your pet by measuring it regularly. The puppies at this age grow very fast, so they tend to overeat. You should give your pet so much food to let it grow healthily and free from obesity. You can see that your doggy has gained about 10 pounds since the previous month. How much should a 4 month old German Shepherd eat? Your puppy should eat cups of kibble per one meal three times per day. It grows very fast, so it needs a lot of nutrients and minerals for its ears, teeth, and coat. If you feed it natural food, you can add some supplements for puppies to its meals. How far can a 4 month old German Shepherd walk? However, it does not mean that you need to walk it for such a distance every time. Consider two walks of half an hour per day if you want your puppy to grow healthy and strong, and develop all its perfect physical characteristics. Final Thoughts You can see that raising a 4 month old German Shepherd puppy and taking care of it is a responsible and complicated task. You need to know all the peculiarities of this age, so we hope that this article will help you. You should be very patient and persistent to train your dog, do a lot of exercises with your pet, socialize it, and make friends with it. In a while, you will obtain the most loyal, intelligent, and protective friend for your family and yourself. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Female German Shepherds may be slightly smaller, averaging 10 to 12 inches in height and 31 to 35 pounds in weight. However, there is some variation between individual dogs, so these numbers should be used as a general guide, not a hard-and-fast rule. German Shepherds are a large breed of dog, and they continue to grow and fill out until they reach maturity and become adult German Shepherds at around the month mark. During this time, they may gain an additional inch or two in height and 20 to 30 pounds. After they reach adulthood, their size will remain relatively stable. It means they have high energy needs and require a diet rich in protein and calories. The amount of food will vary depending on the age and activity level of the dog. Feed your puppies three times daily and adult dogs twice daily. For example, a highly active German Shepherd may need up to 2, calories daily, while a less active dog may only need 1, calories daily. A rule of thumb is that for each pound the dog weighs, this requires about calories daily. Regardless of the caloric intake, all German Shepherds should have a diet rich in protein and low in fat. Physical and Behavioral Changes At four months old, German Shepherds are just beginning to enter their teenage years. Here are some physical and behavioral changes you may see in your four-month-old German Shepherd. First, their energy levels will start to increase. Ensure you provide plenty of opportunities for exercise, such as walks, runs, and interactive games. Second, their coats will begin to change. German Shepherds have two coats — a dense undercoat and a softer outer coat. This process can take several months, so be patient while your pup grows into its new look. German Shepherds are known for being loyal and obedient dogs, but they may start testing boundaries at four months old. Finally, their behavior may become more independent. Be consistent with puppy training and rewards; your pup will quickly learn what you expect from them. Positive Reward-Based Obedience Training Reward-based training is an effective way to teach your dog obedience commands. It is especially well suited for puppies, who are often motivated by food. For a 4-month-old German Shepherd puppy, you can start by teaching basic commands such as sit, down, and stay. Once your puppy has mastered these commands, you can begin to add more advanced tricks to their repertoire. As your puppy learns new tricks, be sure to offer them plenty of rewards in the form of treats, praise, or both. Your puppy will soon respond to your commands with patience and consistent practice like a pro. Fur Care One of the most distinctive features of a German Shepherd is its lush, thick fur. Fluffy fur is cute but requires special care to ensure that it stays healthy and looks its best. For example, German Shepherds should be brushed frequently, at least once weekly. It helps to remove tangles and knots and can also help to distribute natural oils throughout the coat. However, avoid over-bathing, as this can strip away protective oils and leave the coat dull and dry. Nail Care Another essential part of grooming is nail care. German Shepherds have relatively quick-growing nails, so trim them regularly. If left untrimmed, the nails can become overgrown and uncomfortable for your pup. In extreme cases, they may even start to curl under and grow into the pads of the feet. You can do this at home using a dog nail trimmer or take them to a professional groomer. Either way, avoid cutting the nails too short, as this can be painful for your pup. Dental Care Another important aspect of grooming is dental care. German Shepherds are prone to dental problems, such as plaque buildup and gum disease. In addition, you can give them special dog treats designed to clean their teeth and promote oral health. It can be done at home using a dog ear cleaner and cotton balls. Apply the cleaner to the inside of the ear, and then use the cotton ball to wipe away any dirt or debris. If you notice any of these symptoms, take them to the vet for further treatment. Chew Toys for Your 4-Month-Old German Shepherd At four months old, a German Shepherd is still in the teething stage and will need to chew toys to help relieve the pain and discomfort of growing new teeth. The best chew toys for 4-month-old German Shepherds are those made of durable material that can withstand a lot of chewing. Nylon and rubber are two good options. You should also look for chew toys specifically designed for teething puppies. These toys often have ridges or nubs that help to massage the gums and promote healthy teeth growth. In addition to helping with teething pain, chew toys can also help prevent boredom and destructive chewing behavior. Be sure to provide your pup with plenty of chew toys to keep them happy and healthy. For example, a German Shepherd is susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia , which can cause joint pain and mobility issues. They are also at risk for bloat, a severe condition that can occur when the stomach twists or fills with gas. German Shepherds are also susceptible to skin allergies and ear infections. Luckily, there are ways that owners can take to help prevent these health problems. For example, feeding your German Shepherd a high-quality diet and providing plenty of exercises can help reduce the risk of hip and elbow dysplasia. Keeping their stomachs empty before vigorous exercise can help prevent bloat. And regular grooming can help reduce the risk of skin allergies and ear infections. They will be able to provide you with more information and answer any questions you may have. Most of this sleep will be during the day, with short naps between play periods. It is usual for puppies as they are growing rapidly and their bodies need lots of rest. At night, four-month-old German Shepherds will typically sleep for several hours. If your puppy is sleeping more or less than this, it is best to consult with your local veterinarian to rule out any health problems. Puppies need short bursts of energetic play several times daily, while adults can handle more prolonged periods of moderate activity. Your German Shepherd should be getting at least 30 minutes of exercise per day at four months old. It can be through walks, runs, or interactive games. If possible, try to break up their training into two or three shorter sessions throughout the day. As they get older and more confident, you can gradually increase the amount and intensity of their exercise. Just make sure not to overdo it, as this can lead to joint problems later in life. Also read:. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. Post navigation. Well, at the 4-month age mark, the German Shepherd puppy should be expected to have fully developed their traits and various personalities, as they should be a lot more mature. This is why training should also be easier as you should be able to fully distinguish their various traits and personalities to map out a proper training program for them. Again, proper training and socializing is needed at this stage. Exercises are also highly recommended for the German Shepherd at the week mark. This should include physical exercises to keep them fast, agile, and strong while also increasing endurance. Mental exercises should also be included at this stage to keep your puppy sharper than always. Exercises are also needed to keep the 4-month-old German Shepherd puppy from being very destructive, especially in smaller environments or households and apartments. At this age, your German Shepherd puppy should feel a lot more protective of its owners than usual, and this can lead to some flashes of violent energy and vigilance. In terms of curiosity and learning, by 4 months of age, your German Shepherd puppy should be pretty keen on soaking up new experiences and knowledge, as such you would most times find them searching for various opportunities to run off exploring the environment. This should make the processes of socialization further easy for each German Shepherd puppy owner. While in their protective phase, It is natural for the 4 month German Shepherd puppy to attempt to bite you. As stated earlier, this is a natural and normal process that happens during the teething stage for the German Shepherd puppy. This should help keep them healthy and strong. In this set of vaccinations, they should receive rabies shots and DHPP. German Shepherds are known to be heavy shedders, and at this stage, they should be shedding pretty heavily, this is because they should be going through a change from puppy hair and fur to more adult hair and fur. This is why you would need to regularly groom them, comb out all loose hair and keep them looking good. A steel comb is perfect for combing through the German Shepherd puppy fur. Always make sure they take proper baths with proper shampoos at this stage in their lives. This is why you would need to be a lot more focused and persistent with your training program. Generally, the German Shepherd should be a lot more attentive to training sessions at this point so it should be a little easier if you make use of a proper training method. It has always been advised to use the positive reinforcement method of training for German Shepherds. Patience is also a highly required skill when training your German Shepherd puppy at this stage. And for socialization, as stated earlier, your puppy should be a lot more curious than before so provide them with a safe and controlled environment for them to explore. New environments, textures, sounds, and faces can help your German Shepherd puppy become a lot more confident. A 4-month-Old German Shepherd puppy should look a lot less like a puppy but a lot more like a young adult. This does not mean they any longer retain that puppy-like cuteness, that they had at 2 months and earlier. The weight of the German Shepherd puppy should be a lot higher as it is expected to be at least half the weight of a mature German Shepherd puppy so anywhere between 30 to 40 pounds for males. Female German shepherds should be slightly smaller at 28 to 35 pounds in weight. The height of the male German Shepherd should be between 12 to 15 inches. And for the female, it can range from 11 to 14 inches in height. Also, the breeding purpose does have an influence on the overall height or size of the German Shepherd puppy as puppies from working lines are often slightly smaller than the Show line German shepherd puppy. Your German Shepherd puppy should be a large dog at this point, sitting at a possible 30 to 40 pounds of weight and over 12 inches of possible height. With that being said, their appetite should also be high. This is why the feeding schedule can be slightly changed to include an extra feeding session a day, to make it three sessions in all. If your German Shepherd puppy is a lot active during the day, then the calorie count should be between and a day. And if it is less active, the calorie count should be between to each day. The feeding kibble should be quite healthy and contain the appropriate nutrients. This should be a good start, as the puppy gets a little older you can make the transition to 2 cups per meal. Ensure you do not feed your German Shepherd puppy junk food. At 4 months of age, the German Shepherd puppy does require a lot of sleep to stay functional. They should be going through a lot of changes both physically and mentally at this stage, which can lead to exhaustion pretty fast. As such, it is expected that you provide each German Shepherd puppy at 4 months of age between 17 hours to 20 full hours of sleep each day. This can be carefully integrated into the puppy schedule by allowing them to take small or short naps in between play time or walkouts. Sleep at night is quite crucial for the 4-month German Shepherds, this is why they do need to take longer night sleep than usual. They should be allowed to sleep early and you can influence this by allowing them to take their dinner early. No late-night feeding. As we have already specified, exercising your German Shepherd is a sure way to tire them out and help get rid of that excess pent-up energy that might be quite destructive if not released properly. So, exercises are pretty important for German Shepherd puppies. Exercises for the 4-month-old German Shepherd puppy can come in less organized forms or short bursts of play, this can be done for several hours in the day to keep the German Shepherd quite entertained and happy. You can also set aside 30 minutes to 45 minutes each day to fully exercise the 4 month German Shepherd. You can do this with light walks each day. This can be broken down into two separate sessions. As the German Shepherd puppy gets older, this exercise duration and intensity can change a little to make them a lot more fit and healthy. In addition to physical exercises, the German Shepherd is an intelligent canine that can handle good mental exercises. A puppy puzzle can be used on a German Shepherd of 4 months old. Just make it clear that there is a reward for solving the puzzle to keep the German Shepherd puppy interested throughout the process. With that being said, it is essential that you are patient when dealing with your German Shepherd puppy. German Shepherds are known to bite, especially during the teething stage, they can also proceed to chew furniture and other household equipment if left unchecked and untrained. To stop all these and many more, you would need to employ a much more effective training method to help keep them in check. The positive reinforcement method is quite good. It involves patience and the use of reward systems to keep the puppy in check. Be careful not to overdo it when rewarding your German Shepherd puppy at this stage in their life as they can get pretty spoiled pretty fast. German Shepherds are very intelligent dog breeds, so training using this method should do a lot of wonders. At 4 months of age, your German Shepherd puppy should be closely monitored for any changes as this is about the time frame for any possible defects to start showing signs. If you are updated on your medical records and vaccination records, then congratulations on a job well done. You can do DNA testing on your German Shepherds to be able to monitor whatever possible defects might be with your puppy. If you obtained your puppy from a proper and reputable breeder , this should not be a problem, however, it is still recommended that you carry out the necessary health testing.
Similar services:
mini labradoodle puppies for sale in pennsylvania - Thus, it will do good for both you and your pet. First, however, you must pick your future pet to adopt from a good rescue. Rescue should have active and preventative programs to reduce animal killing. The Rescue or Shelter must have an aggressive public education about overpopulation. Further, they should exert efforts to apply differential licensing. Thus, a good rescue should comply by neutering all animals before going to their new homes. All these should always direct towards the well-being of the animals. A clean and comfortable place means the animals are also well-cared. Further, it echoes a skilled, compassionate, and good hygiene and healthcare program. How do I pick a good rescue Golden Retriever? Thus, you may want to do the following in choosing a good Golden Retriever. Observe the dog Most shelters have an observation room for you to do this. If it has none, just do your best to find some quiet place. As soon as the dog gets comfortable, you may start observing. The Golden Retriever should be friendly. It should come at you with no hesitation, sniff you, or even jump for attention. If you see it exhibits exciting behavior, like tail wagging, it means it wants you to pet him. Thus, you need to give it different tones and noise, especially with your voice. Touch the dog with caution Shelter or rescue dogs are usually under stress. Thus, you always need to be cautious when touching it. You may also see how it reacts when you touch it. A Golden Retriever likes getting touched or petted. Thus, if you cautiously touch it and begs for more, it can be a good sign for you. Other things you can note would be tail-wagging and endless sniffing and licking. Play with the dog Since Golden Retrievers are playful by nature, you should also play with the dog. Moreover, you need to take note of how well it interacts as it plays. Golden Retrievers are born to play. Thus, it should get excited upon seeing a ball or any other toys. At other times, excitement means circling and moving enthusiastically. Walk with the dog Golden Retrievers like to walk, so you may want to test that out as well. Observe how it reacts when on a leash or when it sees other dogs, people, or anything on the road. A good Golden Retriever does well with walking. So anything it sees around, like cars, bikes, or even other people and animals, would draw its attention. Let the dog interact with other dogs or animals. It may or may not be possible, but you may ask to observe how the dog interacts with other animals. It will also be necessary if you have other pets at home. Golden Retrievers play and interact well with other pets. Thus, if you have a pet at home, it would be great to take it to the shelter and allow it to play with the dog. Summary If you live in New York, you will have numerous alternatives to explore, owing to a large number of Golden Retriever shelters in the area. As a result, if you contemplate adoption, you will not have a difficult time finding your pet. As always, if you want to adopt a pet, you will need to put in a lot of time and work. Other States. They focus on dogs who have the temperament and character of a friendly family dog. They spend their time seeking out the perfect adoption homes for these Goldens through their volunteer network, applications, social media, and events. They do this to ensure that whichever home the dog ends up in, the owners will be well educated in caring for this specific breed. This organization is amazing because they take many different steps to ensure that their dogs go to a great, loving home with a family that will take care of them. This rescue is amazing because they focus on dogs who are close to being euthanized or dogs that have the possibility of being less likely adopted. Address: P. This club is to give recognition to this amazing breed of dog. This rescue is trustworthy because they are a part of the Golden Retriever Club of America and therefore they are American Kennel Club registered. This club is a great organization for anyone who owns Golden Retrievers because they consistently host events and have many different projects to work on as a team. They also spend their time finding reputable breeders of Golden Retrievers so they can ensure that those looking for Goldens can get the puppies from a trusted source. People love this club because they have a ton of information on their Goldens, puppies, finding a breeder, and more. They host events and they have a community where people can get together to celebrate Golden Retrievers. This ensures that they are a trustworthy and educated club for Golden Retrievers. This club provides education and training for those who own a Golden Retriever or those who are looking to own a Golden Retriever in the future. People are loving this club in specific because they dedicate their time to Golden Retrievers and the education behind them. They even are looking into research to find answers to medical questions that have been a concern for Golden retriever breeds for years. They are consistently contributing to the community by building friendships, providing education, research, and training as well to all the owners and Goldens of central New York. This is the perfect Golden Retriever club because they even have veterinarians and professionals who give educational lectures about the breed. This club is great for those that are looking to get their Golden Retrievers involved in shows, field trials, and obedience trials. This club is also American Kennel Club certified so you know they are trustworthy and ethical. People love this club in particular because they stay busy with events, organizations, and fundraisers. They are accepting new members regularly and they ensure that anyone that joins their club is involved in their organization a lot by having a ton of events to attend. This club is a devised club where even non-members can attend their events, just without their furry friends. This is a great idea if you just want to scope out the club before actually joining and bringing your Golden Retriever. People love joining this club because they focus on a lot of different training and tricks. They involve their Golden Retrievers in competitions, assisted therapy, conformation, obedience, rally obedience, and tracking. This is a really great reason to choose this club because it gives your Golden Retriever a lot of different opportunities to be a part of. Not only that, but this club is also a part of a lot of events that bring their community together in order to celebrate Golden Retrievers. Anyone with a Golden Retriever can join this club in order to bring out the best qualities whether that be in obedience, training, agility, tracking, competitions, or field events. Not only is this a club for Golden Retrievers, but they also have rescue, puppy referral, and referenced clinics. They work with a lot of people to bring Golden retrievers the best care before adoption, after adoption, and as puppies. Golden Retriever owners love being a part of this club because they have a lot of educational opportunities and they teach the dogs a lot about their natural abilities. Final Thoughts Finding the perfect Golden Retriever rescue center or club can be tricky, especially with so many options around New York. We hope to have narrowed down the search a little bit for you by providing you with some of the best and most trustworthy rescues. Rescues that are ethical, registered, and overall show true compassion for their animals are the ones to go with. Not all rescues have the same agenda, so making sure that you go through one that does what they are supposed to do is important. These rescues are the perfect palace to start and a lot of them have a ton of information on their website about their organization. You should be able to find everything you need using the information in this article. We wish you all of the luck trying to find your perfect Golden Retriever for your family! Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for New York Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in New York? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in New York? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Read the full disclosure here. Originally bred to retrieve shot waterfowl and serve as gun dogs, golden retrievers are one of the most popular family dogs. Despite their huge popularity and purebred status, you can still adopt purebred goldens from golden retriever rescues in New York state. Before you start researching different golden retriever breeders in New York state, consider adopting or fostering a rescue dog. While it might not seem like it at first, rescued dogs come with certain benefits! If you decide to purchase a puppy from a breeder, be prepared to spend a lot of time on obedience training and house training. On the other hand, most rescued golden retrievers are already fully potty trained and know basic commands. Keep one reading to find out how to adopt a golden retriever in need! Best Golden Retriever Rescues In New York State Highly trainable, friendly, and active, golden retrievers make awesome pets to people of all ages and families with children. Medium to large in size, these athletic and energetic dogs need a lot of exercise to stay healthy and in good shape. Whether you are interested in adopting or fostering a golden retriever, you are probably wondering what are the best golden retriever rescues in New York state. Furthermore, most of these rescues are always looking for helping hands and you can always sign up to be a volunteer and help find homes for goldens in need. Without further ado, here are some golden retriever rescues in New Your state you have to check out! Their goal is to find new homes for purebred golden retrievers and their mixes who have been abandoned, mistreated, or lost by their previous owners. This rescue also takes in goldens whose owners are no longer able to continue caring for them. Like most other reputable rescue organizations, GRROWLS is strongly committed to helping prospective owners understand the golden retriever breed. They are also there to help new owners get prepared for bringing a new puppy home and to know what to expect from the first couple of weeks. This rescue has a fairly straightforward adoption process. If you are interested in adopting a golden retriever through this rescue, you will have to fill out an adoption application first. Before matching you with a particular dog, the rescue will arrange a home visit so they can understand your environment and lifestyle. The Sunshine Golden Retriever Rescue takes in dogs from different backgrounds. Some of these dogs are well-behaved and cared for pets whose owners have passed away, while some goldens come with a history of abuse or neglect. A thing worth noting about Sunshine Golden Retriever Rescue is that most of their dogs come from kill shelters in the South and are placed as direct adoptions. This means that approved applicants will meet a dog through pictures, email, and adoption coordinator. Operated solely by volunteers, this organization is dedicated to improving the lives of golden retrievers that were neglected, abandoned, or abused by their owners. The Long Island Golden Retriever Rescue provides veterinary care and loving forever homes to all golden retrievers, from puppies to seniors. The best thing about this rescue is that they have been involved in several international rescue operations. This organization has a list of available adoptable dogs on their site and you just need to fill out an adoption application if you are interested in adoption. Once the staff reviews your application, they will contact you to set up a home visit. Like all other non-profit rescue organizations, the New York State Retriever Rescue has set adoption fees. All golden retrievers that come in New York State Retriever Rescue are evaluated and taken to their vets for a complete health exam. Before leaving for their forever home, all dogs receive the necessary shots and have fecal and heartworm tests. And if for whatever reason you can suddenly no longer care for your adopted golden, this rescue will take the dog back and try to find it another home. Bear in mind, since they are located in Long Island, this organization generally only adopts their dogs in a mile radius. Since , the volunteers of SGRR have rescued Golden Retrievers, Golden mixes, and Golden-hearted dogs who have been abandoned, abused, or relinquished by their owners. We are dedicated to finding the best possible homes for these dogs in need. September is National Preparedness Month! The peak of Atlantic hurricane season is here which is why it's important to take some time to reflect on disaster preparedness. As unlikely as it may seem, a disaster can strike at any moment. Whether it's a fire, tornado, hurricane, flood, or blizzard, it's critical to be prepared and have a plan in place. Unfortunately, pets are sometimes unintentionally left out of their owners' disaster preparedness plans which makes it difficult to know what to do with them during an emergency. Luckily, you can plan ahead for your pets using these tips: Listen to your veterinarian Make sure your pet wears a collar with up to date information on it, get them microchipped, and have them vaccinated. These recommendations will come in handy during a disaster and help you avoid any potential pitfalls, such as being unable to get into a shelter with an unvaccinated pet or losing them during an evacuation. If possible, take your pet's medical records with you and attach their rabies tag to their collar. Find out which shelters allow pets Do some research into where you can safely evacuate with your pet during a state of emergency before a disaster occurs. Your local police department can typically give you this information. If not, they'll likely be able to point you in the direction of someone who can. Though unfortunate, it is not true that hotels must accept pets during evacuations, so please keep that in mind while planning ahead. Prepare a pet disaster kit In a suitcase or other easily movable storage container, pack food and water bowls, a manual can opener, two weeks' worth of canned food and bottled water per pet, plastic poop bags for dogs , litter and a small litter box for cats , and two weeks' worth of any medications your pet may need. You should also pack cleaning items, sturdy leashes and harnesses, toys, and a copy of your pet's medical records. For small animals and cats, have a carrier ready. Use this checklist to prepare. Create handouts Create an identification handout and a boarding instruction handout. Have both ready to go at a moment's notice. They should contain important information, such as your pet's name, age, sex, markings, microchip number, allergies, and vaccination status. If you get separated from your pet, make sure you're safe before you begin your search. If you're in a shelter that houses pets, inform a caretaker and provide them with the identification handout. Once you've been given the OK to leave the shelter and return home, contact animal control and call the microchip company to make sure all information about you and your pet is current. Stay safe out there! Some dogs become comfort or therapy dogs, while others are champion security systems. Dudley's adopters, however, found he is quit the poet!! Kind of melts your heart, doesn't it? We hope you will be too! Looking for a good gift for yourself or someone else and make an impact at the same time? Go over and see our friends at Golden Retriever Coffee Company! Not only do they have amazing products, but they're big supporters of SGRR! Also, shipping is always free in the U. This all-natural craft bakery offers delicious treats for your furbabies such as pumpkin hearts, peanut and blueberry chews, turkey and sweet potato duckies and more pup-alicious flavors. Everything in the dog bakery is made with natural, healthful, nutritious ingredients, blueberries, duck, cheese, turkey, rolled oats, whole dried eggs, and more. Sunshine also will share a percentage of the bakery profits with other golden rescue organizations. Our Goldens and Golden-hearted dogs make wonderful pets. We want our applicants to also know that rescued dogs come from a variety of backgrounds. Some dogs are older dogs, including well-behaved and cared for pets whose owners have become ill or died. A patient and loving owner can make all the difference. The joys of seeing these dogs become the devoted and contented pets they were meant to be is remarkable. New to SGRR? Want to Learn More About Us? We at Sunshine Golden Retriever Rescue take the job of finding the best possible forever homes for our dogs very seriously. The adoption process is thorough so that we can learn as much as possible about those to whom we entrust our precious pups. Once a dog is placed with an approved adopter, they are welcomed into the SGRR family and given the tools and support to make the adoption successful. We have gathered comments from some of our adopters who are happy to tell you how they feel about us! You can read more comments on our Get to Know Us! To make a very long story short, she went on to become the saving grace of my life and a certified therapy dog who was with me for 13 years. After she crossed over that rainbow bridge, I did a lot of research with adoption agencies and came across SGRR. After filling out the application and being interviewed I was offered a dog by the name of Daisy, a beautiful red Golden Retriever. I thought I would never feel about another dog the way I felt about my Julie but it was not long before I fell in love with that sweet, sweet girl who was also with me for 13 years. Everyone loved Daisy, she would go up to people and do that lean into thing, a Golden thing, and they would just laugh and pet her. That is when I realized what an amazing organization, so full of caring and wonderful people who often go above and beyond for these wonderful animals. When my Daisy girl crossed over after a few months went by I thought it time to bring another friend home. Golden Retrievers had become hard to find so I decided to take a mixed breed home which was a big deal for me being the Golden Retriever lover that I am. I never had a male or a mixed breed before so I did not know what to expect. Finnie settled right in and is a wonderful companion and friend to furry sibling Gracie. Finnie took some training but I knew in time he would be a great dog and he is a great dog. He is very different than the other dogs in my life but he is so much fun to have with us. He loves people and gets very excited with everyone and will jump up in the air like an acrobat we are working on that , but a great dog. I would encourage everyone to think about a mixed breed. With time, love and patience you get a great dog and companion. We are excited and proud to share it with all of you. Click the button below and enjoy! The soft light and subtle fragrance will be a sweet reminder of the love you have shared. Please check out their website to learn more about J. Lilienne Custom Candles Pet Collection. SGRR is designated as a c 3 organization which means your donations are tax-deductible. You can make a donation to our general fund or designate your donation for a specific purpose such as a memorial or a tribute. Single Payment Use for a single donation or to pay an adoption fee. Recurring Donation Sponsor a Dog If you would like to provide for the care of a particular dog's needs, you may sponsor that dog. We will then note you as a sponsor on the dog's dedicated bio page. We thank you in advance for your generous support!