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Unless, of course, a breeder tries to breed them specifically. There are three theories, however: It has always been there — Labradors were officially recognized as a breed by the AKC in so we have little record of this breed from before this point. The exact price of either color type can vary greatly from state to state and from country to country, of course. Whether you find that to be worth it or not is entirely up to you. After all, the main cost for owning a dog is still in the repeating food and vet bills not so much in the initial price. Are there any other differences, however, specifically in the health area? Yes and no. Strictly speaking, the only difference between Champagne Labs and yellow Labs is their coat color- nothing else. However, because Champagne Labs are rarer and pricier, they are also often subjected to inadequate breeding practices. There are a lot of disreputable dog breeders out there who happily turn their back on the recommended breeding practices just so they can breed as many puppies as possible. Unfortunately, the results of that can often be devastating for the puppy and many studies have detailed exactly why and how. The main issue is inbreeding which can lead to increased risk of:. Florida There is a genetic test for the Dilute gene that many breeders are now testing in order to ensure that they don't produce these dilute Labradors. The fact that the AKC has allowed registration of these as Chocolate is quite controversial as are the claims that some of those who breed them deliberately make against breeders who are testing to avoid breeding them. Perhaps the most controversial is the one in which they claim that these dilute Labs have always been around but that the breeders "culled" them read Killed Them in the past. The fact remains that there has apparently never been found a breeding journal in which these colors were noted. One dog genealogist traced the lines of these dogs back to a particular kennel known for breeding both Weim's and Labs and using cross breeding to produce Labs who "pointed". Since Weim's are universal carriers of the dilute gene, the prevalent belief is that the first dilute Labs were the progeny of either an accidental or deliberate mating of a Lab to Weim and that the dilute gene was then introduced into the Labrador. So far, this has not been supported by DNA testing, so the matter is far from settled. Since there are only three colors accepted by the Club, then those who are deliberately breeding dilute colors are deliberately producing dogs who would disqualified in a conformation competition - something that no breeder seeking to improve the breed should be doing. Having said all of that - they are Labs and they are beautiful so it is up to each buyer to decide whether they want to have a dilute Lab or not.Is a silver lab a purebred? They are bred from the traditional yellow Labs with a recessive gene that produces a lighter coat color. These dogs are medium-sized dogs. Their muscular build makes them perfect for outdoor hunting and swimming. The shade varies from pale ivory and deep champagne to light golden. This coloration results from a recessive gene that yellow labrador parents have passed down. Friendly and Social: Champagne puppies are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. It is a trait that they inherit from the yellow lab. They love being around people and make excellent family pets. They are also great with children and other dogs. Intelligent and Trainable: Yellow Labs , in general, are brilliant and trainable dogs. Champagne color Labradors are no exception. They are quick learners and excel in obedience training, agility, and other dog activities. Energetic and Active: These dogs have a lot of energy and require plenty of exercise and playtime. They are perfect for active families who love hiking, jogging, or swimming. Origin Of Champagne Labradors Or Yellow Lab The origin of this unique dog is not well documented, but it is believed that it first appeared in the United States in the s. They were likely the result of a genetic mutation that caused the coat dilution gene of the yellow lab coat color. These genes have the potential to override all other colors subtly. Pairing two little dd genes dilutes the coat colors of the resulting Lab. This gene controls the light champagne shade in a standard yellow lab. However, it results in striking Silver Labs in brown dogs, which has generated controversy among the Labrador fraternity. Genetic variation makes each dog unique. There could be three potential reasons behind the emergence of Champagne Labs. Champagne Labs are the Result of Mixed Breeds One theory is that many breeders created Champagne Lab puppies through cross-breeding with other breeds that carry the Dilute coat gene. Breeds like the Weimaraner , which have a similar coat color, may have been used to introduce the dilute yellow gene into the Yellow Labrador gene pool. This process is known as outcrossing, a standard method breeders use to introduce new traits into a breed. Champagne Labs are the Result of Hidden Genes Another possibility is that the dilute gene was always present in the Yellow Labrador breed but was hidden for a long. A dog can only exhibit dilute coloration if it inherits both copies of the Dilute gene from both parents, owing to its recessive characteristic. A Third Option It is possible that a combination of both theories contributed to the creation of a Champagne Lab. Crossbreeding with other breeds may have introduced the Dilute gene into the Labrador gene pool. Hidden carriers may have passed the gene down through generations until it became more prevalent. They excel in obedience training and are quick learners. These dogs are natural retrievers with a strong instinct to retrieve. It makes them perfect as hunting companions and shows dogs. Champagne Lab puppies require consistent and patient training, like all dogs. Positive reinforcement techniques work best with these dogs. You must avoid harsh methods. Temperament A Champagne Lab puppy is gentle and friendly, making them a great family pet. They are loyal and affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners. These dogs have a lot of energy and require mental stimulation. A Champagne Lab puppy is also excellent with children and other pets. They have the instinct to protect and care for others. Early socialization is crucial for good behavior and manners. It is a genetic condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally, resulting in pain and discomfort for the dog. Obesity Obesity is a growing concern in yellow labs, and Champagne Labrador Retrievers are no exception. These dogs love to eat and can quickly gain weight if they are not exercised enough. Monitor their food intake and make them exercise a lot. Eye Problems Champagne Labrador Retrievers are prone to eye problems, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and glaucoma. Ear Infections Regular cleaning of the ears and prompt treatment of any infections can prevent chronic issues. Visiting your veterinarian regularly can effectively detect any underlying health concerns at an early stage. Color Dilution Alopecia There is a belief that diluted dogs are not as healthy as those with standard pigment. However, this idea is incorrect and can be linked to a medical disorder called Color Dilution Alopecia. Nevertheless, most dogs do not experience any health issues related to this condition. Finding a reputable breeder is key. Avoid puppy mills at all costs. Coat color and type — Champagne Labradors can range from light cream to almost white with short or long coats. The coat is similar to a golden labrador. Pros and Cons of champagne color labrador Pros Unique Appearance: The unique coloring of this social dog stands out more from a yellow or black lab. Friendly and Loyal: These working dogs make excellent family pets and are great with children. Trainability: Labradors are highly intelligent and easily trainable, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Less Heat Retention: Because they have a lighter coat color, Champagne Labradors tend to retain less heat than their darker-colored counterparts, making them more comfortable in hotter climates. This can result in deafness, blindness, or joint problems. The lighter coat makes them more prone to hair loss, skin allergies, and sunburn. Dudley Labs have a light-colored coat with pinkish-brown tones on their nose. Conversely, champagne Labs have a pale yellow or almost white coat. Both breeds have a muscular build, with a height of around 22 to 25 inches. They are known for their outgoing personalities. Champagne and Dudley Labradors are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training. Both breeds are generally healthy, with a life expectancy of years. Champagne Labs have a light silver tone to their coat, while yellow Labs look much more blonde and golden. Moreover, Champagne Labs also have lighter noses than yellow Labradors. Are Champagne Labrador Retrievers healthy dogs? Champagne Labrador Characteristics Your champagne Lab will be the same build , height and weight as the average yellow Lab. Their size will vary depending upon whether they are from working or show lines , but they tend to be about 60lbs as adults. It actually also appears in both brown and black Labs, creating silver Labs and charcoal Labs. So, a champagne Labrador will have a lighter nose than a standard yellow Lab. There is quite a good deal of debate over the origins of the champagne coat color in Labradors. Many people believe that this color is naturally occurring in the Labrador breed, and that champagne Labs are still Labrador through and through. However, others believe that the dilute gene that causes this color was introduced by another breed. The most commonly accused culprit being the Weimaraner. Either way, champagne Labradors have started to show up increasingly throughout the last century. They have been most common in America. And, many of them have lineage histories going back several generations, showing they are purebred Labs. However, each of these colors has a spectrum of shades. Yellow Labs range from the palest white to dark red. The champagne Lab is a diluted or muted version of the yellow coat. To get a dilute version, the gene must be recessive d. A Closer Look Genes are made up of pairs of alleles. Your dog will receive an allele from each parent to form a gene. DD — A yellow Labrador Dd — A yellow Labrador or dd — A champagne Labrador So, as we can see, a puppy will only have a dilute coat if it inherits the recessive allele from both parents. This is because a dominant allele will always override a recessive one. How did the Dilute Gene get into Labradors? There are two main ways that the dilute gene could have found its way into the modern Labrador. These are: mixed breeding and hidden genes. And there is a slim chance that this gene could have been caused by spontaneous mutation. Champagne Labs are the Result of Mixed Breeds Many people believe that the dilute gene in Labradors is the result of mixed breeding. Some people have suggested the Labrador was bred with breeds like the Weimaraner to introduce the dilute gene. This is an especially popular theory for the silver Lab. Or, it could have had more innocent motives, just as a bit of fun or curiosity. However, genetic testing on silver Labs has failed to show a link to Weimaraner dogs. Champagne Labs are the Result of Hidden Genes The other side of the debate focuses on hidden genes that have always been present in Labradors. This has been seen in the inheritance of rare diseases, but is also possible with coat color. So, many breeders in the past would breed chocolate Labradors together to create brown puppies. Many people suggest this is also the case for dilute Labradors. That champagne Labradors only came about when the ever-present dilute gene had the chance to show itself. A Third Option A final option that we should take note of is the fact that this gene could have been introduced before the Labrador Retriever was officially recognised by the Kennel Club, or AKC. Labradors were first registered with the AKC in .This could have resulted in a dilute gene being inherited before Labrador pedigree registers were closed. Are Champagne Labradors Rare? Because a puppy needs to inherit two recessive alleles in order to have a dilute coat color, champagne color Labs are naturally less common than darker shades of yellow. But, any two Labs that have the recessive gene can produce a champagne Labrador puppy. So, this can cause champagne Lab puppies to seem more uncommon or rare. Like any other dog, the champagne Labrador does suffer from some health problems. They are generally healthy, but they may be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia , degenerative joint disease, bloat , over-eating , and cancer. Unfortunately, all Labs are at risk of these issues, no matter what their color. However, dilute Labradors, like the champagne Lab, are also at risk of some coat-related problems. Color Dilution Alopecia Labs who have inherited the dilute color gene are at risk of developing an issue called color dilution alopecia. This is a noninflammatory type of hair loss found in dogs with the dilute gene. Hair loss often begins between 4 and 18 months of age. Plus, skin can become scaly, or even develop bacterial infections. Unfortunately there is no cure for this problem. But, treatments can help to control scaly skin and prevent infection. So, if you notice hair loss in your champagne Labrador puppy, take them to the vet. They will want to make sure they are sending their puppies to good homes! Plus, avoid getting a puppy from puppy mills or pet stores. These places often put profits before the health of puppies and their adult dogs. Take a look at our full guide for more tips on finding a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder. Cons Purebred enthusiasts are critical that champagne Labs may be the result of cross breeding. Like any Lab, it will need lots of exercise and company Dilute coat colors are linked with color dilution alopecia, which has no cure It can be hard to find a champagne Labrador puppy Champagne Lab puppies are often very expensive Pros. Lankas Labs is one of the only pointing champagne lab puppy breeders in the area producing puppies for sale with this unique coloring. While displaying an interesting color variation, these dogs are so much more than their coats. Champagne Labrador puppies for sale at Lankas Labs are trained to point from a young age, so they are ready to become exceptional hunters and help you bag a great catch. These puppies are also socialized with other dogs and other humans, so in addition to being successful hunters, they will also be gentle, loving, affectionate family pets. This delivers dogs with a coat colored somewhere between the fox red and the standard yellow fur colors. Some lab owners prefer this shade because they simply like the color, while others like it because it is a relatively rare phenomenon in Labradors. Hunters may prefer this color because it mixes the advantages of the yellow and red lab, creating a unique shade that will blend into many different environments. If you hunt in the fall with your pointer gundog, you may prefer champagne colored puppies for sale to blend in with dried reeds or the fall foliage. As a pointing champagne lab puppy breeder, we take great care to ensure all pups receive age-appropriate socialization, as well, and we put a focus on selecting breeding dogs that offer our pups the best health traits possible. See the puppies for sale at Lankas Labs online and learn more about what we do as a unique pointing champagne lab puppy breeder. Give us a call at today or send us a message to learn more about us or any of our upcoming litters. Pointing Champagne Labs Gallery. While their coat may appear similar to a golden Labrador at first glance, champagne Labradors have a distinctively lighter coat color with a creamy, pale gold hue. They are truly stunning dogs, and their unique coloring is sure to turn heads wherever they go! Originating in the United States, the champagne Labrador is a relatively new color variation of the popular breed. While they are not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC , they are gaining in popularity and are sure to become a recognized color variation in the future. If you are looking for a beautiful, unique dog with a personality to match, then the champagne Labrador is the perfect breed for you! The champagne Labrador is the subject of much debate on the internet. Yellow Lab coats come in a variety of colors when a yellow Lab inheriting a coat dilution gene from both of its parents. There is no way to know whether this gene has always been inactive in Labradors or if the dilute coat is the result of a hybrid strain. Many Labrador enthusiasts have had a contentious debate about the Labrador coat color and gene. People believe that the dilute gene is the result of mixed breeding in Labradors. Because the yellow coat is diluted, it is also known as a champagne coat. Some people believe that the Labrador was bred with breeds such as the Weimaraner in order to introduce the dilute gene. The proceeds could have been used to purchase more rare colors for breeders. It could have been more of a prank or simply as a curiosity or amusement. It is critical to select a reputable breeder and the puppies they breed. They are generally healthy but may be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, osteoarthritis, bloat, over-eating, and cancer. A champagne Labrador, like any other dog, suffers from a variety of health issues. Make certain your home has enough room to allow you to devote a significant amount of time and effort to this social dog. Puppy mills and pet stores are not good places to get a puppy. More information on choosing a healthy puppy can be found in our full guide for puppy breeding tips. What Is The Rarest Labrador? There is no other color that is as rare as silver Labradors. The color of these dogs is light gray to blue, with silver speckles in the sunlight. Because of their silver coat, these Labradors are often mistaken for German shepherds. Despite the fact that Silver Labs are distinguished by many characteristics, they have the same genetics as all other types of Lab. A silver Labrador is a crossbreed of a Labrador and a Weimaraner. In terms of coat color, a Silver Lab is essentially the same as a regular Labrador, except it has a blueish-grayish coat. They are now used as service dogs and as police dogs that accompany officers. Silver Labrador retrievers have strange-looking grey and silver coats. Many countries allow the registration of a Silver Lab as a separate breed. Chocolate is the name given to these breeds by the American Kennel Club. In the United Kingdom, the breed is permitted to be recognized, but it is not certified. The silver lab is a friendly, affectionate pet that loves to play with humans and other animals. They thrive at dog-day care centers because they are so friendly and make fast friends. They have a wide skull, chest, and hindquarters, and are distinguished by a broad coat. Because they are extremely short, the females appear to be without obvious symptoms. Long-distance running is a great workout for humans and their Labradors. Swimming is a natural part of their diets, so it would be ideal if they could go swimming. A labrador is a friendly dog that can be taken aback by people, but you should keep an eye on their socialisation before allowing them to do so. Despite their small size, silver Labradors are gentle and never offended by anything. As a result, they must be treated with flea control and nail clipping once a month. If you have a backyard, where there are many people to play and cuddle with, a silver lab is an excellent pet. At the very least, a silver lab will cost around dollars. A Silver Labrador is an energetic and playful dog who will keep you coming back for more after a few days of living with them. There will be no jealousy or teasing from these loving companions, and you will not feel betrayed because they will be loyal to you. The most popular breed of dog is the Black Labrador. There are no other colors, markings, or spots on them; the exception is a small white patch on the chest that can be worn. Labs are characterized by a dominant color gene, which means that you will frequently see black Labs as a result of this. The Dudley Labs are uncommon, and many Labrador Retriever breeders will intentionally avoid breeding the dogs that will result in the lack of color in the Dudleys. His coloring is not only a pretty addition to any standard Labrador, but it also has a fascinating backstory. Many Labradors consider red foxes to be intelligent and cunning animals, making them an ideal pet for them. These animals are not only beautiful, with unique looks, but they are also friendly and loving. Credit: pupperbark. The American Labrador is the product of selective breeding by 19th century English immigrants in North America. English Labradors, on the other hand, are the result of generations of breeding by English nobility. Finally, the Canadian Labrador is a mix of the two previous types. The color of a Labrador is also determined by three different factors: black, brown, and yellow. Black labs are thought to be the most intelligent and quick learners. The general appearance of an English bred Lab differs from that of a standard dog bred in English. In shooting events and in trials, black is the dominant color. In the United States, the American breed standard requires height of between 21 and 25 inches. British Labs calm, quiet, and become less active, so they are calming, quiet, and less active than their American counterparts. Because of their thick coats, English Labs shed more weight. The Labrador retriever is regarded as one of the best therapy dog breeds in the world. Because of their hard work and intelligence, they are ideal candidates for training. The Labrador Retriever has reigned supreme as the most popular breed of dog in the United States for the past 26 years, according to the American Kennel Club. Yellow Labs are regarded as the sweetest and calmest of all dogs, whereas Chocolate Labs are regarded as rambunctious and rambunctious, and Black Labs are thought to be patient hunters. In both yellow and black Labradors, the color of the eye should be brown, while chocolate labs should be brown or hazel. Three types of Labradors are recognized by the American Kennel Club: black, yellow, and chocolate. It is not always yellow Lab; it can range in color from cream to red or strawberry. The physical characteristics of both the British and American Labrador retrievers differ. Labrador retrievers are medium-sized dogs with an impressive body that is strong, compact, and muscular. Males are more affectionate and enthusiastic as adults than females. It is not uncommon for American and English ancestries to be represented by three color variations: black, blonde, and brown. Black Labradors are well-known as firearms dogs, but they can also be wonderful pets, companions, and agility dogs. Silver Labradors are by far the rarest of all the colors of Labradors. In the shade of these trees, these dogs are clad in a light gray to blue color that appears silvery in the sunlight. Because of their silver coat, these Labradors are frequently mistaken for Weimaraners. Credit: dogypuppy. English Labs are calmer than American Labs, and they are also more relaxed. In some cases, people incorrectly believe that the color of a Labrador is calming. Regardless of the color coat they have, Labradors are known for being sweet and peaceful. A lab can be overtrained or underexercised, resulting in an error. The best training period for a puppy is between the ages of 8 and 16 weeks. Many dog owners prefer to crate their dog rather than put him in a bed, allowing both the owner and the puppy to enjoy the experience. After a few days in a crate, the dog will need to go through some energy. As a result, a calm myth may arise. If you had a neighbor who kept a black lab, you could always crate it during the day. Black dogs are bred by this hunter with a high drive. When selecting a litter, he will select one puppy with the highest desire to mate in the future. In other words, one who sees four or five of his dogs could make an incorrect decision based on what he sees. Black Labradors are a popular family pet because of their intelligence and quick learning ability. They are known to be adaptable and can work in a variety of settings. All Labradors Are Great Dogs According to the answer, it makes no difference whether the color is white or tan for the best temperament of a Labrador. The Labradors are a fantastic dog breed with a lot of personality. All of them are easy to train and adore, regardless of whether they are yellow, black, chocolate, or any other color. Credit: www. Over the last 50 years, there have been two distinct types of Labradors. The behavior of your Lab and how it appears may vary greatly depending on its origins. Learn about the differences between working American Labs and show bred English Labradors as part of this class. There are two types of Labradors: English and American. Before purchasing a puppy, you should first determine what type he or she is. Drakeshead is a famous dog breeding and competition facility in England that breeds and competes working type Labradors. In the United Kingdom, a large number of successful American and field-type Labrador breeders are found. If you want a pet that is not only a hunting companion but also a companion animal, an American Bulldog is the best dog for you. The ancestors of some Labradors from the last century may have inspired some breeders to breed them again for purposes other than hunting. Dog tails with a thick, medium-weight substance and medium-weight weight. Some of these breeds are known for their strong hunting and retrieving instincts, broad heads, and thick coats. Variable results can occur when the two lines are combined, so employing a mixing strategy is always a risky endeavor. Pippa Mattinson, best-selling author, is credited with creating The Labrador Handbook. It assists you in selecting the right puppy and accompanying you during your first encounter with your new Labrador. Check to see if your puppy has had any health issues, as well as meet the parents to ensure he or she is well-mannered. Here are some of the best outdoor activities to do. They are not particularly good at cold weather activities such as sledging or cross-country skiing. Champagne Labrador Breeders There are many champagne labrador breeders out there, but not all of them are created equal. You want to make sure that you find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy, happy puppy. A good breeder will be able to answer all of your questions and put your mind at ease. They will also be able to provide you with a contract that outlines the terms of the sale. This Labrador breed is thought to be one of the rarest, and it is almost always found in the yellow Labrador breed. Despite this, Black Labradors have roughly twice the rate of increase of the other two colors. Champagne Vs Yellow Labrador There are a few key differences between champagne and yellow labradors. For one, champagne is a type of sparkling wine, while yellow labradors are a type of dog breed. Champagne is typically made from a blend of white and red grapes, and is known for its bubbly, effervescent quality. Yellow labradors, on the other hand, are known for being friendly, intelligent and loyal companions. They are also typically bred as working dogs, and excel in activities such as retrieving and swimming. The yellow lab is seen all over the world on numerous occasions for a variety of reasons. There are some differences between Champagne Labs and yellow Labs, but there is no doubt that Champagne Labs are distinct breeds. A Champagne Lab and a yellow Labrador are the same breed on the outside. If you have these dogs as a child, the only difference is that they have a genetic mutation, which can be bred out. Despite the fact that Champagne Labs are extremely rare, they are the same breed of dog that you know and adore. Champagne Labs For Sale There are many breeders who offer champagne labs for sale. The price of these dogs can vary depending on the breeder, the lineage of the dog, and other factors. If you are interested in purchasing a champagne lab, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Controversial Coat Color Labradors Some people believe that coat color in Labradors is linked to health and temperament issues, while others believe that coat color is simply a matter of preference. Silver Labrador puppies were thought to be the result of a Norwegian Elkhound cross from the s. Puppies born to purebred, AKC-registered Labrador parents should be destroyed to prevent the breed from extinction. According to some, the silver Labrador is a cross-breeder rather than a Labrador. Tan points have been linked to puppies born with them see Dobermans, Rottweilers, etc. It is thought to have evolved from Gordon Setters interbreeding. From to , there was no record of silver labs or any similar color. These silver labs are litters of litters that have no common ancestors in the litters. At one time, yellow Labradors were almost nonexistent, appeared hound-like, and wore no undercoats. Crossbreeding of the Norwegian Elkhound and the German Shepherd resulted in a quick way to introduce the proper undercoat. At the moment, it is unknown how the silver coat of Labradors was produced. Silver dogs can look just as good as any other type of dog, and they can make excellent companions as well. The temperament and type of a dog will be determined by its bloodline, no matter which color it is. It is no surprise that even if breeders, such as those who have only begun, consider breeding silver for silver, they will find many doors closed to them in terms of selecting the best Labrador bloodlines. There is no other type of Labrador than a silver one. This dog is a light gray to blue color with a silverish appearance in the sun. In fact, because of the silver coat, these dogs are frequently mistaken for Weimaraners. Lancelot Encore, a Labrador Retriever puppy, is the most expensive puppy in the world, selling for , dollars. The price of Lancelot is an indication of his special qualities because he is so special. A champagne Lab puppy can be born from any two different Labradors with the same recessive gene, but it is less common than darker yellow shades. Champagne Labs are wonderful family pets because they are extremely loyal and loving. Why Are Silver Labs Controversial? They are upset by the fact that the origins of the color are currently under debate and that the possibility of Weimaraner genes has been raised. They would be justified in being angry if this is true because it goes against breed standards. However, breeders of the Silver Labrador argue that their dogs are pure bred. Weimaraners Vs. Silver Labradors Weimaraners are known for their dedication, loyalty, and hard work, which makes them ideal pets. These dogs require a lot of exercise, making them ideal family pets, but not for those living in apartments because they require a lot of time to exercise. A Silver Labrador, on the other hand, is a laid-back dog that is ideal for people who want a dog that can take long walks or trips with them. Color dilution alopecia is a condition that affects white and silver Labradors, as well as yellow and white Weimaraners, and is more common in dogs with the color dilution gene, such as Weimaraners. In most cases, this is a benign condition with little to no mortality, but it also does not always go away. Looking For A Loyal Friend? Adopt A Red Lab! These Labs are among the most endearing dogs on the planet. Their personalities are playful and affectionate, and they are ideal pets for families with children.

Prevalence: Common Boxers are stocky, muscular and powerful. Males grow to about 25 inches and weigh from about 65 to 80 pounds 30 to 36 kilograms ; females grow from about 21 to 25 inches and weigh from about 50 to 65 pounds 22 to 30 kilograms. Boxers have regal, distinctly shaped square heads. Their jaw is undershot and the muzzle blunt. They have a broad, deep chest and a relatively short, strong back. Boxer's ears fold over naturally, but traditionally, their ears have been cropped to stand erect. Their tails generally are docked and carried high. Their feet are compact and the toes are arched. The boxer's coat is short and sheds moderately. Some boxers are a rich, fawn color and others are brindle. Their face or mask is usually black, but many have white face markings and white on the chest and paws. Personality: Boxers are intelligent, high-energy, playful dogs that like to stay busy. Their temperament reflects their breeding. They prefer to be in the company of their owners and are loyal pets that will fiercely guard their family and home against strangers. Few boxers bark excessively. If a boxer barks, chances are there is a good reason. Many boxers are vocal, however, and make a growling noise that's really just the dog's way of talking. Living With: The boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. If these needs are not met, boxers can be destructive if left alone in the house. Boxers are ideal for people who want a canine companion with them most of the time or for larger busy families with homes that are often occupied by someone. They can do well on a country estate or in a city apartment as long as they have the opportunity to romp and expel energy. If you live in an urban area, regular walks are necessary. Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated. They also need protection from the cold since they are short-coated. Their coats, however, are very easy to care for and will be shiny and bright as long as they have a good diet, are bathed occasionally, and are given regular rub-downs with a grooming mitt or brushings with a rubber curry. Some boxers drool excessively, and some snort and snore. Like other larger dogs, boxers are not particularly long-lived. Their life expectancy ranges from about seven to 10 years. History: Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog and possibly Great Dane and even a terrier. They were developed in Germany in the 19th century, initially as bull baiting dogs and later as butcher's helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation. Other fanciers contend the name boxer comes from the characteristic way that they use their forepaws to play, sparring much like a human boxer. After the breed rose to become among the most popular in America. Boxers are considered working dogs. They were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog, and they have been used as seeing-eye dogs. But they are also bred to be companion and guard dogs, perhaps best known for being loyal family pets that are especially fond of children. Related Pet Care Articles. They have a great sense of humor and are quite cuddly, considering their stocky selves to be right at home on your lap—even when they reach up to 80 pounds! They love their people, they love to please, and are extremely intelligent and loyal," says breeder Marc Hatten, owner of Mountain Crest Boxers in Huson, Mont. Boxers have a short, glossy coat —usually a fawn, brindle, or white color —that's soft to the touch, often with flecks of white across the chest, face, and paws. His square head is a unique feature, lifted high above a strong back and tapered hindquarters. Most boxers have broad, black faces, also known as masks. Their ears create a floppy frame around their masks, although some dog owners have traditionally cropped the ears so they stand up. Though this is controversial; according to the American Veterinary Medical Association , cropping is almost always done for cosmetic reasons and has no proven health benefits. Don't let the downward frown of the jowls fool you—they're happy dogs! Because boxers weigh between 50—80 pounds and top off at nearly 2 feet high at the shoulder, they're considered medium- to large-sized dogs. Temperament While your boxer is a puppy, introduce him to as many adults, children, and other pets as you can so he develops strong connections and learns good manners. Boxers can be suspicious around new people and animals, so the earlier they interact with other pets and families at a dog park or in the neighborhood, the better. A boxer dog's temperament is naturally friendly and fun without being overly jumpy, barky, or excitable—once they graduate from their awkward puppy phase, that is! They reach full maturity in about three years, which is longer than other dog breeds. So positive reinforcement training is a must to help properly channel a young boxer's abundant energy. Fortunately, they're easy to train and eager to please, so they respond well to cues and leash training. Boxers dislike routine, so teaching them new tricks from time to time keeps their curious minds engaged. Hatten recommends two essential reasons for crate training boxer puppies : to curb undesirable habits caused by boredom and to provide a sense of security. This provides a safe retreat as he adjusts to new people and surroundings, also referred to as a "decompression period. Some experts recommend that the crate—with door open—be placed in an area where your new companion can easily see you and approach for reassurance whenever he needs to, reinforcing the new bond. Ask your veterinarian or a certified trainer for more tips to ease your boxer into the family. Living Needs Owning a boxer means you want a dog that can keep up with your lifestyle and be a true canine friend. They wouldn't be well-suited to an individual or family that couldn't provide these basic activities and socialization aspects. It's not unusual for boxers to need at least 30 minutes—or more—of exercise and dedicated play each day. Because of their dutiful personalities and intelligence, they've been trained to work in K9 units with police, as messengers during WWII, cattle wranglers, and guides for people with visual impairments. So with this type of energy and attention to detail, it's no wonder they thrive with people who are active in the great outdoors and enjoy running , hiking , camping , enjoying family outings in the park, working on farms, and exploring other environments that provide healthy engagement. American boxer dogs have lean, muscular bodies designed for movement and short, easy-care coats, so they're ready to go when you are. A mature boxer can also be a trusty and loyal companion for an apartment dweller or senior citizen who enjoys daily walks and has a fenced-in yard or accessible park area that allows for plenty of fetch time. Care Clean your boxer's teeth every day if possible to prevent tartar buildup. Fortunately, a specific doggie toothbrush and toothpaste makes this an easy task. Ask your veterinarian for tips. Sparkling teeth and healthy gums also help reduce drooling. Boxers don't drool as much as other breeds, but slobber can happen regularly depending on the size and shape of your dog's nose and jaw. Keep his coat sleek and shiny by brushing him a couple of times a week with a hound glove or rubber curry-brush. They don't shed a lot , but regular brushing helps control any fur that does fly. Because boxers are generally clean, they only need a bath about once a month, and that's a good time to trim their nails and clean their ears , too. Some boxer dogs have deeper facial folds than others, so you might need to wipe these clean with a damp washcloth, especially after a vigorous romp outside nosing through dirt. Health Because boxers have short coats, they often need sweaters or jackets to protect them in cold weather. They're also more sensitive to hot temperatures. They don't sweat , and their snub noses and fleshy mouths can't provide adequate cooling from panting like other dogs. So if it's warm out, time walks in the early morning or late evening when the sun isn't at its hottest. If you notice your boxer is a bit overheated , apply chilled water to his ears, belly, and genitals, where blood vessels are closer to the skin. Because they're so playful, they might also enjoy a quick cool down by frolicking in a small wading pool placed in a shady backyard spot. According to Upstate Veterinary Specialities , particular boxer health problems include cardiomyopathy—specifically, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy ARVC , which appears in some dogs 5—7 years old. This is a genetic disease that occurs in nearly 40 percent of boxers. The heart muscle is gradually replaced by fibrous, fatty tissue, and causes an irregular heartbeat. Symptoms of ARVC include fainting, shortness of breath, and difficulty exercising. Unfortunately, some dogs don't present any symptoms of ARVC at all, and may die suddenly because of it. According to the American Boxer Club ABC , other potential medical conditions include hip dysplasia , degenerative myelopathy—a progressive disease that affects the hindquarters and spinal cord— thyroid issues , and tumors. When you're looking for a boxer puppy, ask specific testing questions of your breeder. In the 19th century, German and Belgian breeders created bullenbeissers from other dogs of that line, including the mastiff and English bulldog , and used them as large game hunters and for cattle control. Further refinement of that breed revealed a sleeker type of dog—the boxer. Some canine historians believe the name boxer comes from a German reference for the bullenbeisser's role in slaughterhouses—boxl—while others say it describes how the dogs use their front paws in play. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the boxer breed in .A boxer named Sigurd was born in and sold to a California kennel when he was 5 years old, according to the ABC. He and his offspring were the first boxers in the U. Fun Facts American boxer dogs are known for their goofy personalities. They also have a special wiggle frequently referred to as a "kidney bean"—they curve into a semi-circle shape and spin around when really excited! Boxers are favorite companions of many famous folks. Actress Jennifer Aniston, who usually has at least two or three pooch pals, adopted a pit bull-boxer mix in named Sophie. Actress Jessica Biel, along with pop music sensation husband Justin Timberlake, have frequently been snapped by paparazzi while on walks with their boxers, Buckley and Brennan. Was this page helpful? Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Boxer Overview Boxers, large, muscular, square-headed dogs, appear imposing until their mischievous and joyful eyes reveal their true nature. Boxers reach full maturity at three years, boasting intelligence, alertness, and fearlessness, while remaining friendly. Their loyalty to the family is remarkable, though they can be headstrong when faced with harsh training. With minimal grooming needs, Boxers make excellent family companions, as long as they receive ample physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their origin traces back to Germany, and their short, shiny coats are usually fawn or brindle with white markings. Docked tails and cropped ears are common, but many owners now prefer leaving them natural. Boxers are renowned for their love and loyalty, often trying to be lapdogs. Their strength and courage make them suitable for military, police, and search-and-rescue work. Proper care includes indoor living due to their sensitivity to extreme temperatures. Boxer Highlights Here are some of the highlights of the Boxer breed: Affectionate: Boxers are very affectionate dogs and love to be around their people. They are known for their wagging tails and slobbery kisses. Playful: Boxers are also very playful dogs and love to have fun. They are always up for a game of fetch or a good belly rub. Intelligent: Boxers are very intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. They are often used as working dogs, such as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs. Trainable: Boxers are also very trainable dogs and can be taught a variety of tricks. They are eager to please their owners and love to learn new things. Loyal: Boxers are very loyal dogs and will always protect their family. They are known for their bravery and willingness to stand up to danger. The Bullenbeisser was used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer, tasked with catching and holding the prey until hunters arrived. Over time, Bullenbeissers lost their jobs on estates and began to be used by farmers and butchers to guard and drive cattle. The Boxer we know today was developed in the late 19th century when a Munich man named Georg Alt bred a brindle-colored female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown origin. Schecken was then bred to an English Bulldog named Tom to produce a dog named Flocki, who became the first Boxer to be entered in the German Stud Book after winning at a Munich show that had a special event for Boxers. One of her pups was a white female named Meta von der Passage, considered to be the mother of the Boxer breed, even though photographs of her show that she bore little resemblance to the modern Boxer. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white parti-color, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing bitch few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day. The breed became known in other parts of Europe in the late s. Around , the first Boxers were imported into the U. Lehman of New York. When Word War I broke out, Boxers were enlisted into the military, serving as messenger dogs, carrying packs and acting as attack and guard dogs. Boxers started becoming popular in the U. Through them, the breed was introduced to more people and soon became a favorite companion animal, show dog, and guard dog. In the early days, there was a lot of controversy within the club about the Boxer standard. In , the club finally approved a new standard. The latest revisions of the standard were in .Today, the Boxer ranks 7th among the breeds and varieties registered by the AKC. Boxer Size The height at the shoulder for males usually ranges from .Females typically stand 21 to .Strangers are met with wariness, but they respond politely to friendly people. They display aggression only in defense of their family and home. Temperament is influenced by factors like heredity, training , and socialization. Boxer puppies with good temperaments are curious, playful, and open to approaching and being held by people. Socialization, early exposure to diverse experiences, people, and places, is crucial to ensure they grow up as well-rounded, friendly dogs. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten classes and regular interactions with visitors, neighbors, and various environments help develop their social skills. Boxer Health Boxers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they have certain health conditions to be aware of. Here are some conditions to watch out for, along with precautions: Cancer : Boxers are prone to mast cell tumors, lymphoma, and brain tumors. White Boxers with excessive white markings can get sunburned and may develop skin cancer. Apply sunscreen to their ears, nose, and coat when they go outdoors. This condition can lead to fainting and sudden death. A veterinary cardiologist can diagnose it after detecting a heart murmur. Affected dogs should not be bred. Boxer cardiomyopathy BCM : An inherited condition causing an irregular heartbeat due to an electrical conduction disorder. It can result in weakness, collapse, or sudden death. Detection is challenging, leading to unexpected fatalities. Dogs showing signs of this condition should not be bred. While some dogs show signs of pain and lameness, others may not exhibit discomfort. X-ray screening helps detect hip dysplasia, and affected dogs should not be bred. Hypothyroidism : Caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, leading to infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. It can be managed with daily thyroid replacement pills. Corneal Dystrophy : Non-inflammatory eye diseases inherited in Boxers, affecting one or more corneal layers, causing opaque areas in the eyes. A weakened immune system can lead to demodectic mange, resulting in localized or generalized skin issues. Gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV , also called Bloat or Torsion : A life-threatening condition more common in deep-chested dogs like Boxers. Feeding habits and exercise patterns can contribute to GDV. Immediate medical attention is crucial. Allergies : Boxers are prone to both environmental and food-related allergies. Itchy, scaly skin should be examined by a vet. Responsible breeding is essential to reduce the risk of deafness. Boxer Care Boxers are indoor dogs due to their short noses and coats, making them unsuitable for outdoor living. However, they enjoy playing in a fenced yard. Engage them in play or walk them twice daily for at least half an hour to keep their muscles toned and their energy satisfied. Activities like fetch, long walks, or dog sports like agility and flyball are great options. Adequate exercise ensures good behavior—a tired Boxer is a well-behaved Boxer. Training is crucial for Boxers, as their size and strength can inadvertently harm people. Their temperament, being happy and excitable, requires early and consistent training using firm, fair methods with positive reinforcement through praise, play, and food rewards. Be consistent to avoid pushing boundaries. Settle them down before training class with a walk or play session for better focus. Housetraining requires patience; some Boxers are trained by four months, while others take longer. Regular potty breaks and praising them outdoors are essential. Crate training is recommended for their successful training. Boxer Feeding For an ideal Boxer diet , choose high-quality food suited for medium-sized breeds with high energy. Optimize their chances for a long, healthy life by providing proper nutrition. To prevent weight gain, adhere to a regular feeding schedule with two meals per day. Limit treats and avoid leaving food out all day. Consult your vet for personalized recommendations based on factors like weight, energy levels, and overall health. Boxer Coat Color And Grooming Boxers boast a sleek, short coat with tight skin, accentuating their athletic bodies. They come in fawn or brindle colors, occasionally with white markings. Fawn ranges from light tan to mahogany, while brindle displays striking black stripes on a fawn background. White markings should not cover more than one-third of the coat, and excessive white is discouraged due to potential health issues like skin cancer and deafness. They lack the gene for a solid black coat, so black Boxers are not seen. Bathing should be done as needed. Maintaining dental hygiene and nail care are essential. Regularly brushing their teeth prevents periodontal disease, and trimming nails every few weeks keeps their feet in good condition. Starting grooming routines early in puppyhood helps them become accustomed to the process, ensuring positive veterinary exams and handling as adults. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any potential health issues, such as sores, rashes, or signs of infection, promoting early detection and care. Boxer Children And Other Pets Boxers are fond of kids and make excellent playmates for active older children. However, their rambunctious nature may be too much for toddlers, possibly causing accidental knocks during play. Never leave a dog unsupervised with a child. With proper socialization, Boxers can also get along well with other dogs and cats, particularly if raised together. Boxer Rescue Groups Boxers are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Boxers in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Many can be found with a quick internet search. His ancestor is the now extinct Bullenbeisser, which was a large hunting dog in the Molosser group. Accepted by the AKC in , the Boxer was first extensively used as working dogs; most notably in the military. Today, the Boxer is one of the most popular breeds, ranking consistently in the top 10 in the US. He is also a favorite canine companion in many European countries. Found in fawn, brindle, and white registrable but not standard , the Boxer has a short shiny coat and a moderate brachycephalic profile. In the US, ears may be cropped and tail may be docked; however natural ears and tail are becoming more common. Friendly, great with kids and other dogs, smart, full of personality and high energy, the Boxer is an excellent canine family member. Become a free Member of the site When you join the AllBoxerInfo family, this allows you to stay up-to-date with what's going on. You'll receive a newsletter 1 to 2 times per month, for announcements and to let you know about new pages. You'll also be able to suggest a topic for us to write about. Each time we create a new article, we always look to Member suggestions, so your thoughts are valued. We also encourage new Members to send in photos of their awesome Boxer dog; we add these to the site as we create new sections. New Right Now: Boxer Dog Feeding Guidelines - Updated - Read the newest info regarding grain vs grain-free dog food vital for this breed in particular as well as newly updated recommendations. Snacks, Chews, and Training Treats for a Boxer - A helpful breakdown of the difference between these 3 things, how each should be used, and top recommendations for both puppies and adults. Also New: Boxer Dog Diarrhea - Though this is never a fun subject, it's important to know what can cause this, immediate steps you should take from home, and red flags that warrant a vet visit. How to prevent and heal dry noses. And, details about peeling, cracking, and crusting issues. Boxer Dog has Hiccups - Updated - Reasons why hiccups happen and how to stop an episode. How to Train a Boxer to Stop Jumping Up - Boxers are super expressive, rather exuberant dogs, so it's common that a greeting involves jumping up onto you or your guests. Read exactly how to train your Boxer to remain calm and say hello in a more polite manner. Boxer Dog Paw Care - Everything you need to know, and things you didn't even know you were supposed to know about your Boxer's paws. Popular Pages: From when you first get your new Boxer, through adulthood, and for his senior years, everything you need for optimal health, comfort, safety, and happiness. Check out what you should have, why, and top recommendations. He specializes in bite protection work. Grooming With a short and sleek coat, shedding is kept to a minimum. Grooming involves many aspects including baths, brushings, nail trimming and dental care ;which some owners underestimate as to how important it is to Boxer health. Keeping your Boxer clean helps to keep your Boxer healthy. Learn the proper grooming techniques for the Boxer dog. Further information: Bullenbeisser Friedrich Robert and his boxer, The Boxer is a hunting mastiff developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser , a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant , in northern Belgium. The Brabanter Bullenbeisser is generally accepted as being a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much since. During World War I , the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack carrier, attack dog , and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, the dog was introduced to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog. Boxer early genealogy chart Flocki, the first Boxer German citizen George Alt, a Munich resident, mated a brindle-colored female dog imported from France named Flora with a local dog of unknown ancestry, known simply as "Boxer", resulting in a fawn-and-white male, named Lechner's Box after its owner. This dog was mated with his own dam, Flora, and one of his offspring was a female called Alt's Schecken. George Alt mated Schecken with a Bulldog named Dr. Flocki was the first Boxer to enter the German Stud Book after winning the aforementioned show for St. Bernards in Munich , which was the first event to have a class specific for Boxers. Blanka von Angertor, Flocki's sister, was even more influential when mated with Piccolo von Angertor Lechner's Box grandson to produce the predominantly white particolored female dog Meta von der Passage, which, even bearing little resemblance with the modern Boxer standard early photographs depict her as too long, weak-backed, and down-faced , is considered the mother of the breed. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white particolor, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing female, few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day pedigrees. Combined with Wotan and Mirzl children, they made the Boxer. Breed name[ edit ] The name "Boxer" is supposedly derived from the breed's tendency to play by standing on its hind legs and " boxing " with its front paws. Brace's Pet Owner's Guide to the Boxer, this theory is the least plausible explanation. At that time, the spelling "baxer" equalled "boxer". Both the verb boxen [English "to box, to punch, to jab"] and the noun Boxer were common German words as early as the late 18th century. The term Boxl, also written Buxn or Buchsen in the Bavarian dialect, means "short leather trousers" or "underwear". The very similar-sounding term Boxerl, also from the Bavarian dialect, is an endearing term for Boxer. These dogs were the result from mixes of Bullenbeisser and other similar breeds. Bier beer probably refers to the Biergarten, the typical Munich beer garden, an open-air restaurant where people used to take their dogs along. The nickname "Deutscher Boxer" was derived from Bierboxer and Boxer could also be a corruption of the former or a contraction of the latter. This seems improbable. Any such action would likely result in a badly bitten if not broken leg. On the other hand, a German breeder of 40 years' experience states positively that the Boxer does not use his feet, except to try to extinguish a small flame such as a burning match. But a Boxer does box with his head. He will hit not bite a cat with his muzzle hard enough to knock it out and he will box a ball with his nose. Or perhaps, since the German dictionary translates Boxer as "prize-fighter", the name was bestowed in appreciation of the fighting qualities of the breed rather than its technique. Boxer is also the name of a dog owned by John Peerybingle, the main character in the best-selling book The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens , which is evidence that "Boxer" was commonly used as a dog name by the early 19th century, before the establishment of the breed by the end of that same century. A brindle Boxer with two white socks Brindle, fawn, and white Boxer puppies See also: Dog health A healthy Boxer puppy Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers , heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called " Boxer cardiomyopathy " , [35] hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. An emerging health concern among boxers is Boxer Juvenile Kidney Disease JKD , where the kidneys do not develop normally during gestation and leads to chronic renal failure. There is strong evidence to suggest JKD is an inherited condition in boxers with research being undertaken by the University of Ohio to determine the gene mutation, as well as other work separately by the UK Boxer Breeder Council. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. See also: Dog food Boxers need plenty of exercise, which means their diet should be high in quality calories. The main source of these calories should be lean animal protein, which include lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. They sometimes appear at dog agility or dog obedience trials and flyball events. These strong and intelligent animals have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. The versatility of Boxers was recognized early on by the military, which has used them as valuable messenger dogs, pack carriers, and attack and guard dogs in times of war. Notable Boxers[ edit ] Punch and Judy were awarded the Dickin Medal for conspicuous gallantry or devotion to duty while serving in a military conflict. With a distinct build and highly recognizable face, the breed is a hard one to forget. Even though many people fall in love with Boxers for their wrinkly faces and droopy jowls, their personalities make it nearly impossible not to be impressed by a Boxer dog. Playful and clever, Boxers are patient with children and protective of their loved ones, making them a popular choice for families. Breed History Bred for hunting and working, the Boxer is a distinct breed that originated in Germany in the late 19th century. These characteristics were most likely seen in the now extinct breed known as Bullenbeissers, which were used to bring down large game and to keep an eye on the livestock. The Boxer breed that we are most familiar with began with a man named George Alt. Living in Munich, Alt imported a Bullenbeisser from France. The breed name, Boxer, has two possible origins. While no definitive history of the name exists, the former, while not as fun, is more likely than the latter explanation. Attributes While the breed is barrel-chested and athletic looking, perhaps the most distinguishing feature is the shape of their head. With a snout about half the length of the skull, coupled with some wrinkly jowls, the head of the Boxer served them well when hunting — mainly to breathe while holding on to prey until their owners arrived. Boxers have a sturdy build and muscular body, weighing anywhere from pounds and standing inches tall, with the female members of the breed being significantly smaller than their male counterparts. Boxers come in several colors, including brindle, tan, black, and even white. However, like most white-coated animals, white Boxers do run a higher risk for deafness. There are no indications, other than the increased risk of deafness, that white Boxers are more prone to other types of health concerns or temperament issues. Giving a Boxer the exercise and energy outlets they need can go a long way toward having a well-behaved pooch. Conversely, a Boxer with high energy but no outlet can go from clownish to destructive. This, of course, can be avoided with plenty of stimulation and activity — which are also great ways to form a bond with these playful pups. Boxers, like most dogs, also need regular nail trims, teeth brushing , and an occasional ear cleaning. Your veterinarian can recommend an ear cleaning solution. And, remember: use a cotton ball to wipe the ear clean and never go down deeper than your first knuckle. Also, avoid using cotton swabs. They can actually push dirt and debris further down into the ear. And those wrinkles — make sure to clean them out with a damp towel to help avoid any possible infections. Have you been thinking about getting health coverage for your pet?

Knowing what to look out for will help you notice early symptoms; thus giving your Boxer dog a better chance at recovery. We will look at common yet frustrating Boxer dog eye problems including cherry eye, inflammation, dry eye, corneal dystrophy and progressive retinal atrophy. We'll also cover Boxer dog eye care tips and cleaning. There is a separate section on Eye Boogers. The 3rd eye lid is rarely seen under normal circumstances. A human would only notice this if lifting up a Boxer dog's main eyelid. However, certain canine health conditions can cause this membrane to move location, thus covering the eye either entirely or partially. Many Boxer dog owners will become concerned as they describe this as a "film" covering their dog's eye. Symptoms Red tissue will be seen on the Boxer dog's eyeball. Treatment Until recently, common veterinary practice would be to remove the 3rd canine eyelid. In current times, surgery can usually be performed to move the membrane back into place without having to remove it. There are some rare cases in which the membrane will need to be removed. If so, a Boxer dog will need daily eye drops indefinitely. This can happen when a foreign element comes into contact with or enters the Boxer dog's eye or can be a symptom of an underlying canine disease. Symptoms Large amounts of water discharge Sensitivity to bright lights both outside in the sun or inside Dulling of the iris or a bluish tint covering the dog's eye Redness Swelling Treatment The veterinarian will look at the Boxer dog's eye with a tool that allows him to see the interior of the eyeball. If the cause of the irritation is not clear, blood testing may be done. Quite often, medication is given to the dog. For swelling, anti-inflammatory medication will be given. For infection, antibiotics will be given. For pain, eye drops may be given. If an underlying disease is found such as Brucellosis or Lyme disease, those will be treated as well, of course. Very rarely and only in extreme cases will a Boxer dog's eye need to be surgically removed. There is a natural film that protects a Boxer dog's eyes. With this film, the dog's eye is not protected. The eye becomes very dry causing many health problems. This can happen because of many reasons including: an injury to the eye, a dog not receiving proper nutrition through a correct balance of food, malfunction of the thyroid, infection or side effects from medication. Symptoms This is also sometimes referred to as "Brown eye", as the eye may develop a brown tinted film Scar tissue may appear on the dog's eye A stinging pain that is usually constant, as the eye loses all lubrication Blood vessels may grow rapidly throughout the dog's eye Treatment The Boxer dog will be given eye drops to lubricate the eye, swelling and infection will be brought down with medicine and the dog will be given drops to help his body produce natural tears. Surgery may need to be performed by the veterinarian if a tear duct is severely damaged. This condition describes the clouding of the cornea. This is an inherited canine eye disease and will affect both eyes equally. Symptoms Gray or white crystal-like material will begin to develop on the Boxer dog's eyes. In almost every case, both eyes are affected in the same degree. Treatment As of now, there is no treatment for this canine eye disease. Fortunately, this condition is not painful. While it can affect how clearly a Boxer dog can see, it rarely completely blocks a Boxer dog's eyesight. Both eyes will be affected at the same time. The dog does not feel any pain. Unfortunately, all Boxer dogs with PRA will eventually become blind. Symptoms Symptoms do vary in Boxer dogs with this eye disease, however things to look out for are: Night blindness — you will know your dog has this if your Boxer dog does not see well at night — your dog may stumble into walls or furniture if the lights are kept low at night, etc. Diagnosis Once a Boxer owner notices any of the above symptoms, the dog should immediately have a full and complete eye exam by a board certified veterinary ophthalmologist. Treatment At this time, this is not treatable. Of course, studies are being done to someday cure this canine eye disease. It is suggested that one action may slow down the process: Antioxidant supplements for retinal health — there are some good signs that this type of supplement for dogs may slow down the disease. If your Boxer is having eye issues, you may want to speak to your vet about this. Typically, these are a blend of a large array of antioxidants, up to 10 or .The Boxer dog should have regular eye exams, even after losing all sight. While this disease does not cause pain; PDA cataracts can develop and those can be very painful. Because the blindness occurs very slowly, over a large span of time, the dog usually does not suffer from the shock of not being able to see. A Boxer will have time to slowly adjust to lessened sight. The dog is not in pain. A dog can still go for walks, play with you, and be a wonderful companion. In case your dog ever becomes lost, it is suggested to have a medical alert tag on your dog that relays that he or she is blind. Boxer Dog Eye Care - Preventing Injury When you have a breed like the Boxer with very big, prominent eyes, you'll want to take a few preventative steps to help keep the eyes from suffering scratches and irritations. Some of the things you can do include: Do not allow your Boxer to sniff under bushes or into any sort of thick landscaping. Do not allow your Boxer to fully stick his head out of the car window. If you have a cat and she tends to swat at your Boxer, consider cat nail tips, which are plastic nail coverings that will at least prevent deep, harmful scratches. If your Boxer appears to have something in his eye, use a canine saline rinse to flush it out. If this is allowed to build up and crust up, it can cause eye irritation. In addition, eating and drinking throughout the day can cause the hairs around the eyes to become wet. If those hair remain damp, yeast infection can set in. On dogs with light coats, this is often referred to as tear stains; however, this can happen to any breed of any color. You will want to have a good supply of canine grooming wipes on hand; choose a quality brand like Earthbath All Natural Grooming Wipes that are hypo-allergenic and fragrance free. Each day, preferably after each meal, but at least once per day, wipe down your Boxer's face, paying particular attention to the eyes. Swipe under each eye, and then start in the inner eye and wipe up and around the upper lid and brow. Daily maintenance of the eyes is just good hygiene; after a week or so it will become second nature. They are extremely lazy! Indolent corneal ulcers—also known as Boxer ulcers, recurrent epithelial erosions, or SCCED—are common in middle to older aged dogs of all breeds, but most commonly, as one might suspect, Boxers. They are believed to be associated with a defect in the layers of the corneas to adhere properly1. Generally there is no history of trauma and the majority of cases occur spontaneously. Dog looking up The signs of boxer keratitis include discharge, squinting , redness and excessive tearing. Additionally there may be a strange appearance to a normally clear cornea2. Diagnosis of eye ulcers The presence of a corneal ulceration can be confirmed using a fluorescent dye that adheres to damaged tissues. It is important to thoroughly examine the eye for problems that may have played a role in the ulcer or delay healing. Indolent ulcers will generally have evidence that layers of the cornea are peeling or not sticking to each other. This will require a veterinarian to carefully examine the cornea. Treatment of eye ulcers Therapy can be very challenging because of the underlying abnormality of the corneal tissue that will delay normal healing. Effective treatments may require a variety of measures. A number of treatments have been used for these ulcers. Routine antibiotic and atropine treatments are often not effective. More aggressive treatment recommendations have included: Corneal debridement Chemical cautery to disrupt the corneal basement membrane and stimulate vascular ingrowth Hyperosmotic agents e. Application of soft contact lenses or collagen shields Surgery including a third eyelid flap Punctate or grid keratotomy or superficial keratectomy Corneal debriement is a frequently used treatment. However even more aggressive treatment may be needed in Boxer keratitis. Treatment may require contact lenses or collagen patch bandages to protect the cornea. Prognosis of eye ulcers Because affected dogs are often affected by an underlying defect of the cornea, recurrance is a possibility. While there is no proven genetic basis, breed predilections suggest that there may be genetic influences. It is likely that there is a genetic predisposition to this defect in Boxers. Studies are being conducted to look at the condition and identify genetic markers. If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets. These will include genetic passed on from the parents and congenital present at birth conditions. For some, the problems are evident in early life. For others, they are only an issue in middle age or even in their senior years. As we know that Boxers are so predisposed to ocular issues, their eyes should be closely examined at every routine health check, such as during their annual vaccination exam. Vets should assess the eyes closely, checking for signs such as tear staining or corneal pigmentation. It is also advised that a Schirmer Tear Test is performed. More on this later. Some of the problems that vets will be looking out for include: 1. Corneal Ulcers Ulcers on the surface of the eye pose a real issue to Boxers, more so than most other breeds. Ulcers can cause signs including blepharospasm squinting of the eye , tearing, and pawing at the eye due to discomfort. They are diagnosed with a Fluorescein Tear Test. During this brief test, an orange dye is dripped onto the cornea. It is then cleaned away and the eye is examined under a slit lamp while the lights are off. Any stain uptake is consistent with an ulcer. The vet will assess and measure any ulcer that is present. Dogs will usually be treated with a combination of topical antibiotics, pain relief such as atropine drops and a buster collar to prevent rubbing. Most ulcers heal quickly, within a matter of days. It is important to re-stain the eye to ensure the ulcer has healed after a couple of days. If the eye appears to worsen at any time perhaps it becomes cloudy or there is a visible dip in the surface of the eye , an urgent vet visit is needed as ulcers can become infected or even rupture. A quick update on training your Boxer pup! Brain Training For Dogs might now be one of the best training methods suitable for Boxers. Owners are seeing improvement in obedience, behavior, and stubbornness quicker than ever before. Okay back to the post! These non-healing ulcers do not act like regular ulcers and persist despite routine treatment. The healing process and cells that are present are thought to be abnormal in those dogs that are affected. Vets will be suspicious of an indolent ulcer if your dog is an older Boxer with a non-healing ulcer. Oftentimes, we can perform a quick debridement with a cotton swab under local anesthesia to remove the abnormal cells. Frustratingly, this is not always effective and some dogs will require more aggressive treatment such as a Grid Keratotomy. Entropion Eyelids that turn inwards cause issues as they scrape the surface of the eye and are very uncomfortable. Normally, this disorder is diagnosed in young dogs. Entropion can be diagnosed by an experienced vet by looking at the eyes. Treatment usually consists of surgery to repair the deformity. The sooner this is done, the better the long-term prognosis. Uveitis The iris, ciliary body, and choroid all form the uvea of the eye. Inflammation of these structures is called uveitis. Causes can include infections, immune-mediated disease, or trauma. As this is a painful disease, your Boxer may squint their eye shut, rub at it and act subdued. Vets will monitor affected dogs for glaucoma, which can be a complication. Cherry Eye A prolapse of the nictitans gland causes a red swelling at the corner of the inner eye that is said to look like a small cherry. While one eye may be affected initially, it is not uncommon for the other eye to follow suit shortly after. Surgery under a general anesthetic is required to replace the gland. Previously, vets would trim away the gland but this is no longer recommended as it can lead to Dry Eye in later life. In a small number of patients, the cherry eye will recur after surgery and a further procedure will be required. Glaucoma Increased intraocular pressure is known as glaucoma. Signs can include severe pain, sudden vision loss, and obvious redness. It may occur secondary to other conditions such as uveitis. Measuring the eye pressure should be part of a routine eye exam and is usually done with a tonometer. A Schirmer Tear Test can quickly rule this condition in or out. This test is easily done in a conscious patient and only takes a couple of minutes. A small piece of paper is placed under the eyelid and the tears produced are measured. If the measurement of tears reads more than 15mm, we are happy that the eyes are producing enough tears. Dry Eyes require medicine including lubricants and topical Cyclosporin such as Optimmune. Affected Boxers will need ongoing monitoring. Popular article: Why do boxers have their ears cropped? Dogs may be irritated and itchy and there might be ocular discharge. Due to the rubbing, fur loss around the eye is not uncommon. Dogs may also develop small pimples or pustules. There are several causes for blepharitis including allergies, infections, and other inflammatory disorders. A Boxer who has had blepharitis in the past is more prone to getting it again in the future. Of course, there are other considerations for swelling in the ocular region including a tooth root abscess, insect sting, or local trauma. Due to this, an accurate veterinary diagnosis is a very important step in the treatment plan. How your Boxer dog is treated will depend on what exactly is going on, but many will need antibiotic eye drops, anti-inflammatories, and a buster collar to prevent rubbing and protect the peri-ocular skin. We would consider: Trauma, such as from a bang to the head A clotting disorder, perhaps caused by recent toxin ingestion or lungworm Severe conjunctivitis. When boxers pull hard on the leash, their intraocular pressure which is the blood pressure inside the eye can significantly increase. This can then lead to broken vessels and eventually bloodshot eyes that look red and irritated. The best solution is to work on basic work on basic discipline and practice walking with a loose leash. Of course, that takes time and your boxer still needs exercise in the meantime. You could work in more off-leash play at the dog park where your boxer can play with their favorite canine companion. You may have even discovered that, in the course of playing with your precious Boxer, you accidentally poked them in the eye! This by no means makes you a bad Boxer owner, as guilty as you may feel after the incident. Her parents chose their sweet Boxer girl because of the playful, family-friendly personality that often allows Boxers to get along so well with small children. This playfulness, though hilarious to watch sometimes, can get the Boxer breed into a bit of trouble when they accidentally get something lodged in their eyes when having fun. In the summertime, grass seed, in particular, can be problematic. Boxers are relatively high-energy dogs who need a healthy amount of exercise to keep that lean muscle mass in tip-top shape! And though your Boxer may not be a racing champion, you may discover that they actually love to join you for regular runs! If you still want to let your athletic Boxer burn off some of that energy outside without letting them roll around in the grass, you might consider taking them for a run. Check out this Boxer having a blast running around—until his legs get a little tripped up, that is! Your special pooch could be struggling with an allergy, inflammation in different parts of the eye, or even being bloodshot from swimming. These can include your typical cleaning sprays, carpet cleaner, air fresheners, and other such household items. Even some unexpected items like incense could cause eye irritation in some dogs. A red eye could also be an indication of one of these two different types of inflammation: uveitis and conjunctivitis. Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, or the middle layer of the eye wall tissue. Conjunctivitis, though, is what we would otherwise call pinkeye: an itchy inflammation of the conjunctiva, the tissue coating the eye. Your Boxer likely has their own special love language—or several! See if your Boxer adapts to this important health ritual as they possibly seek to fulfill longings for quality time or physical touch. Reason 5: Because Of Cherry Eye All boxers, and all dogs for that matter, have a third eyelid which is also called a nictating membrane. In some cases, this extra eyelid can prolapse and lead to a condition called cherry eye. Cherry eye can cause irritation of the eye, including a bloodshot look. This condition is very distinct and hard to miss. This rolling inward of the eyelid is called entropion. Boxers are well-loved for their cute, quirky faces and their adorable wrinkly folds, but these extra folds can contribute to your Boxer suffering from entropion if excess skin is pushing the eyelids and causing them to roll inward. Final Thoughts It can be scary when we think something is wrong with our dogs. After the redness has cleared itself up or after a vet visit, you can go back to enjoying all the attention-seeking playfulness of your Boxer! Growing up with a family full of pets and a lifelong passion for animals he pursued work in the veterinary industry. After 10 years, he started NotABully. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Additionally, NotABully.

There is no denying that they have a huge desire to please their owner. Golden retrievers are the second most popular dog in America behind the Lab. Golden retrievers love life and are very active dogs that love to work. Whether retrieving a ball or working on obedience training they are very smart and love to learn. Color: These puppies can be different shades of light gold, gold or fox red. Grooming your Golden Retriever: Most golden retrievers should be bathed every weeks. Grooming your golden on a regular basis actually helps them shed less. When groomed regularly you are constantly blowing out all the dead air. Goldens usually just require a bath and general trim. However, some people prefer to actually shave their golden retriever. Puppies go home when they are eight weeks of age. Golden Pups come with two sets of shots. Puppies will have been wormed twice. Upon buying your new pup he or she will be Microchipped. Mother and father of the puppies have had their hips X-rayed and eyes Cerfed. Your puppies hips and eyes are guaranteed for 24 months. His golden retrievers have competed in a variety of hunt tests and field trials. You are assured to be getting one of the smartest puppies you will ever see if you choose to get a dog from him. Rex is a Golden Retriever and in this picture he is competing in the Master Nationals. This is an AKC Registered event. Pictured is Rex the Golden Retriever at the family farm after a pheasant hunt. Rex throws some of the smartest puppies in the Chicagoland Area. If you are interested in buying a golden puppy fill out the form below and I will get back to you ASAP! What is a Red Golden Retriever? While Red Golden Retrievers can grow as big as a normal golden retriever, they are often smaller than most normal golden retrievers. Red Golden Retrievers are very similar to Golden Retrievers in many ways. The main difference besides their coat color is their energy levels. Red Retrievers were bred to aid in hunting birds and are known to be more athletic than standard Goldens. They need to be exercised more often to get all of their energy out. We stand by our pups, which is why we work alongside licensed veterinarians to ensure that our puppies are healthy and always up to date on their deworming and vaccination protocols. We also offer a 2-year genetic health guarantee on all of our puppies. That way, you can rest easy knowing your puppy is healthy and free from genetic defects and congenital diseases. Our mission is dedicated to connecting healthy, beautiful puppies with their forever families. Because their temperament is friendly, energetic, and patient. These pups are known for being loyal, intelligent, and devoted. Due to their higher energy levels they were bred to hunt after all , they do best with active families where they can get a lot of attention and are great with children. Luckily Red Retrievers and Goldens alike are known for their soft mouths since they were bred to hunt birds. The original Goldens came to be as a result of cross-breeding between various different breeds including: Water Spaniels, Yellow Retrievers, Irish Settlers, and Bloodhounds over several generations. In other words, all Golden Retriever subtypes including the English Cream Golden Retriever subtype , are members of the same family, or breed. Oftentimes, cheaper golden retriever puppies can ultimately cost you a LOT more money in the long run because they are more likely to have health issues. Are Red Goldens more expensive? Because of their elegant red coats and rarity, Red Goldens can be more expensive than certain other subtypes of Golden Retriever. Both are very similar in temperament, friendliness, socialness, health, and looks. They differ most in coat color, size, and energy. They are typically the smallest puppies of the litter and are more athletic meaning more energy to burn! How big is a full-grown Red Golden Retriever? The weight range for these sweet pups can be from pounds for full-grown males, and pounds for full-grown females. Additionally, these babies tend to stand at about inches tall, with males being on the taller end of the spectrum. Do Red Goldens shed? Yes, all types and variations of Golden Retrievers shed, and this is entirely normal for the breed. However, it is worth noting that because the Red Goldens often have a coat that is slightly shorter than typical Goldens, some owners claim they shed less overall. Problem solved! Are Red Golden Retrievers aggressive? The good news is— no, Red Golden Retrievers are not aggressive dogs by nature even with their higher energy levels. They still have the same sweet, calm, and lovable disposition which makes them a fantastic addition to any family to give plenty of attention to everyone including yours. Are Red Goldens more calm? Usually not, when compared to other subtypes of Golden Retrievers. While Red Golden Retrievers are much alike to Golden Retrievers with their high patience levels, they are known to have more energy. Are Red Golden Retrievers Rare? The gene manifests relatively rarely compared to other colors. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Life Span Did You Know? One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that there are a few distinct color coat variations. Fox Red Labradors are a rare-colored version of the Labrador Retriever. Despite this, they can be registered as purebred Yellow Labrador Retrievers , as the darker-colored coat is not considered to be a disqualifying factor. Due to their unique and certainly eye-catching color, the Fox Red Labrador continues to grow in popularity. Labrador Retrievers are known for being exceptionally sweet and are one of the most affectionate dog breeds. These dogs yearn to be a part of a family, and fit right in when joining one. In fact, Labs are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. Well-socialized Fox Red Labradors tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. After all, every person they meet is a potential friend that they can play with. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Despite their energy, Fox Red Labradors can adapt to most settings. As long as this dog breed has a chance to get in daily walks, go outside to run and play, and they get plenty of attention, they are content. They are not overly affected by cold weather, but they have a dense double coat. Fox Red Retrievers are also happiest when in the presence of people and they love to be with their families whenever possible. They also have a lot of energy and get bored easily. Potential health concerns to be aware of in Fox Red Labrador Retrievers can include hereditary myopathy, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, heart disease, and cataracts. There is also a condition with a genetic link that can occur in young adult Labradors called exercise-induced collapse EIC. Carriers can be identified by DNA tests. Good breeding practices can reduce the risk of potential health issues and make a big difference in the health of Fox Red Lab 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 and about any health tests or clearances. The national breed club recommends hip and elbow evaluations, an EIC DNA test, and an ophthalmologist evaluation at a minimum. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, the Fox Red Labrador Retriever is at a higher risk of bloat. Bloat in dogs can be dangerous and can become fatal if the stomach flips gastric torsion. Labrador Retrievers are one of the smartest dog breeds and are highly trainable. Although they can become stubborn at times, they are eager to please and pick up on training quickly overall. Their energy and intelligence mean they can lose focus in training and get bored easily. However, training that is kept clear, consistent, and focused on positive rewards usually keeps them focused and responding well. Any color variant of the Labrador Retriever is ideal for beginner dog owners. Fox Red Labrador Retrievers have a short, dense double coat that is water-resistant. They shed year-round and more heavily as the seasons change. Brushing their coat a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Because their coat tends to protect them from the cold and they are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water , your Fox Red Lab may try to go for a swim regardless of the season. If they are an avid swimmer or tend to get into a lot of things, you may need to bathe them more often. It is highly recommended to give them a bath or at least rinse them off thoroughly after going swimming with your dog. Their nails should be trimmed once or twice monthly. This will help prevent ear infections. Proper dental care for dogs is essential for preventing the tartar buildup that lends to dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is a good start. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with dental hygiene chews, a special dental care diet, and more. Like other Labs, Fox Red Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for this dog. However, they will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Often, they are just happy to be spending time with you. Labs tend to have an extended puppyhood until they are around years old. They will mellow out a little, but also tend to maintain a puppy-like exuberance even in their senior years. Once they are done growing and your vet has cleared them for more activities, you can try a lot of different things. Labs are athletic and versatile dogs. They are one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures and tend to enjoy a variety of activities. They tend to excel in swimming, running, obstacle courses, and several dog sports. Fully-grown Fox Red Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Fox Red Labs generally live for years on average. Contact Us Welcome to the Katian Kennel! This site was developed to share our love of Goldens. I hope you enjoy your visit, and come back often. For those of you who don't know: "Katian" pronounced "Kay-shun" is a play on Katie and Cajun my late husband's background - he used to say I'm leader of the Katian Nation - Yes, I know.We purchased almost 30 acres and are transforming our new golden retriever paradise. More about us.I recently lost my husband and am very thankful to have so many goldens who love me and occupy my time. When I do work on non-dog tasks, I work mostly from home so I can maximize my time with my canine crew. As the old adage goes, a tired dog is a happy dog.We purchased 30 beautiful acres…. Our new place is just outside of Lexington, Texas less than an hour east of Austin and just a few miles from Giddings, TX. I am truly blessed in that many of my puppies come back to me for training.I love seeing them grow and learn and am so grateful that my extended puppy family trusts us with the next stage in their puppy's life! Our dogs socialize with each other, mind their manners in the house most of the time , have free play in the fenced backyard and supervised free play throughout the rest of our property. They spend their time checking on the ducks in our aviary, the goats in our pasture and trailing all of the deer, rabbits, squirrels and other wildlife who call our property home. The golden crew confidently ride in our vehicles cars, trucks, 4wheelers, boats, kayaks, and our RV. In addition to being well-adjusted family companions, our dogs are duck hunters and competitive athletes. They compete in hunt tests, field trials, obedience and agility - needless to say, we are an active and busy family! My daughter, Katelyn, with one of the pups wooded front yard Angleton We are located on about 30 acres - golden paradise with rolling hills, woods and a beautiful pond! We do not raise our dogs in kennel runs. We have cameras set up so that we can keep a constant eye on our crew when we are tied up with non-dog duties. Security and safety of our furry family is of the utmost importance to us. Katelyn is my life-saver and helps out with the dogs whenever I need her. Between judging assignments and handling my own dogs at competitions most weekends, it is good to know that I have reliable help at home to take care of everything so I can enjoy the dogs off-property. In our pre-Harvey Angleton home, we had a perfect set-up. We are working on developing the perfect set-up at our new place in Lexington.The puppy nursery is almost done and in my home so that I can keep a constant eye on the pups.In Angleton, we had a small swim-by pond as well as a wooded green-tree reservoir for plenty of water training opportunities.Django, Grip, Nacho and Willow are our "launchers" and Gaga, Pebbles and Cica like to swiftly glide into the water - but all of them can't get enough of that wet stuff! Grip, Willow and Django will do laps together for hours if I let them! Whoever says golden retrievers don't like water, needs to stop by and visit! Availability of puppies and conditions of sale are at the sole discretion of the individual breeder. You are not obligated to purchase a puppy from the breeders whose names you obtain from GRCA puppy referral. Interested in more information? When you adopt a puppy from Horizon Puppies, you become part of our family. I picked up my gorgeous golden today. He was bathed and just perfect. No problems at all. Once home he quickly settled in. Just shows how much love and care went into raising them. Look around and then take a hard look at not only the quality of pups they raise but then at an affordable price. I know I made the right decision after a lengthy search. Thank you so much for a wonderful life companion and soon to be spoiled family member. Tim Galloway Amazing to work with. Highly Recommended. Great Puppies. Adam Steury May 26, We received Maggie May from Mark and his family and she is great she was raised very well and kept very safe and clean she was family raised we picked up up at eight weeks old within three days she was going potty outside by ringing the bell at the door she is very smart she will be four months old tomorrow she plays games and completes that with no problem already on stage III Christoph Incorvia November 19, Highly recommended Horizon Lab Puppies!!! From day 1 they have been so great! We got weekly updates to watch our puppy grow and they were very informative on everything the puppies were learning and doing. They made sure the puppies were apart of the family and you could see all the love they gave them. So happy with our purchase!!! Beverly Kreimeyer November 10, We brought home our beautiful puppy Luna today and she has been an absolute delight. We loved getting the weekly updates from Horizon and that we knew all of the puppies were well taken care of, and also part of the family. She had already started potty training and was well loved by a family and children included. I would highly recommend them and purchase from them again in the future. Working with Horizon has been a great first experience for us. The breeders truly care about these pups and their forever homes. We keep in regular contact with the breeder and send updates on our pup. Harvey has been a great puppy. He is a beautiful dog and has been a quicker learner. He has been so much fun for our family. We would definitely recommend Horizon to our family and friends. I am a college graduate with little background with dogs. The breeders were more than willing to answer all my questions and walked me through the caretaking process. I met the breeder personally and saw where the puppies are raised. The breeders truly care about their puppies and it shows. Beau has been healthy and an incredible dog. I would most definitely recommend this breeder to friends and family. Beau below at 6 months Matthew Harvey.

Up to this point I had never been allowed to have any pets! No hamster, rabbit, guinea pig or bird, as my parents never trusted me to take care of a pet. When was 13 years old my mother visited with a friend that had a litter of eight German Shepherd Mix puppies that had been an accident. My mother took one and brought it home…. .Here I was, with the history of never had been allowed to have a small pet- we had a Shepherd looking puppy eight weeks of age! I was super excited! Then, my dad came home from work! War broke out between my parents. Three weeks of war between them, me taking care of the dog before school, after school, feeding him walking him before bedtime. My care was flawless and super consistent. Dog training clubs in Germany, breed specific or not, are like pubs in London……there are a lot of them in close proximity! Every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, I would attend the training and learn how to make my dog do these things. What a fascinating world that was for me. A little over one year later, Buddy obtained his very first title, the BH or spelled out, Begleithund Pruefung. A test with similar requirements as the AKC Good Citizen Companionship title- but much more extensive in performance requirements. Unfortunately, Buddy was not a talent in the protection phase of things. I flunked Schutzhund 1 twice. I was 16 years old, crying like a baby every time. Yet, Buddy was an absolute tracking talent. So I went and concentrated on Tracking titles and was very successful doing something my dog was talented for, and had fun with it! But I felt that the real competition happens in a Schutzhund Title. This is where I wanted to compete. The triple crown of performance: Tracking — Obedience- Protection all in one event, what a thrill! A dog that had a natural drive for this kind of work. During all this time, the club I was working with, had recognized that I was a natural talent in dog training. They were concerned that I could lose interest, that one of the Club members, who was also a breeder, offered to give me a twelve months old female for free. My Dad once again declined! I did not speak to him for three weeks. She went to be my dual purpose trained Customs Service dog, patrol and narcotic detection. I qualified twice to represent my district at the Bundessieger Pruefung for Law Enforcement dogs, placing in the top ten of over dogs competing. In the private sector of dogs I had obtained another puppy from the same kennel she came from, Datscha vom Buckower Feld. Schutzhund 3 in no time. I competed successfully at the German National Championship again. Jenny was my first Breeding Female! Breeders like to either name their kennel by a well known location close to them or by their own last name. Once I moved to America- a new era was born! A German woman down the street from us breeding all American Champion Lines placed a business card size ad in the same magazine. We had to get a German Name. I looked at my book shelf filled with German books. By the time of discovery it was too late to change again. People talking about us just to face the challenge of saying our name correctly! Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page! Haus Amberg Shepherds is a family-based kennel that breeds for the love and preservation of the German shepherd dog GSD. We offer show and working dogs, as well as family pets and service dogs from high-quality German bloodlines. Patrick, a military veteran, and his wife Alishia have spent years learning the proper methods to compassionately breed, preserve and train German shepherds. They believe it is of the utmost importance to uphold this standard and have spent countless hours to achieve and maintain a quality breeding program. Haus Amberg emphasizes proper care and upbringing of each of our puppies to ensure the correct development of personality and socialization. As breeders, they are happy to help you find a perfect new addition to your family. The best lines of German shepherds are located in Germany, bred under the SV. Owning a quality German shepherd makes a world of difference. Haus Amberg Shepherds can help you find what exactly you are looking for as they work with many local breeders and kennels here in Germany. Whether a family pet or top of the line German shepherd show dog, Haus Amberg is able to match you with the perfect dog. One of their priorities is to be sure that the personality and temperament of the dog matches its owner and what they are looking for in their German shepherd.

Read the full disclosure here. One breed you will fall in love with right off the bat is a purebred golden retriever. Take time to find out whether the pup is truly purebred. I discuss it all and even answer some of the most pressing questions you may have about this dog. Shall we begin? They trace their roots back to Scotland, where Lord Tweedmouth bred them for hunting. He was a keen waterfowl hunter but he also wanted a dog that could be loyal, friendly, and even-tempered while at home. All this happened between to .Tweedmouth kept a breeding record that now shows what he was trying to achieve — a hunting dog that also had the traits of a family pet. Even though now extinct, Tweed water spaniels were ardent retrievers and in the home they were friendly, loyal, and calm. In the following years, the AKC changed the Golden Retriever breeding standards to suit the tastes and needs of Americans. Right now, goldens are a popular breed in the US, rivaling Labradors, German shepherds, and French bulldogs. How To Identify A Full Breed Golden Retriever Top on the list of ways to identify a pure golden retriever is to check whether it has the right paperwork and pedigree. Proper documentation is proof that the dog has been registered with a well-recognized kennel club or certified registry that keeps records for that specific breed. Meet the three types of golden retrievers. In North America, the American Kennel Club AKC is the largest and most popular kennel club but there are a few other legitimate registries as well such as: Canadian Kennel Club United Kennel Club Continental Kennel Club For a pup to qualify for documentation, its parents must have been listed with a certified registry. Once you obtain them, you only have to pay a small fee, fill up the registration documents and mail them to the relevant registry for processing. To be one hundred percent sure that your golden is purebred, check to see if it has the features that define such a breed. These are the unique characteristics purebred golden retriever puppies should have. Females, on the other hand, weigh between 55 and 65 pounds and are usually .Both genders reach full height after turning one-year-old and mature weight by the age of two. Structurally speaking, goldens have a symmetrical muscular build and look very athletic. Size-wise, they are classified in the medium to large category. Also, note that their hind limbs are strong and straight while the shoulders are well-built and rugged. Personality Goldens are defined by their sweet, soft, easy-going demeanor. They get along well with pretty much everyone, including kids, and are always eager to please the owner, but these and other great attributes will only be apparent if you train and raise them well. All goldens have a thick undercoat and a dense outer coat that is resistant to water and requires regular grooming with one of the best brushes for golden retrievers. Some have wavy coats, while others are straight. Their fur feathers on the chest, underbelly, along the tail, and on the back of their front limbs. Shedding is heavier in the fall and spring and moderates in the summer and winter. To keep their beautiful coats in top shape, clean, and free of fleas, use one of the best flea shampoos for dogs. Other special characteristics of purebred goldens to watch out for include: Short ears that can fold over Fairly or dark brown medium-large eyes with dark eye rims A thick tail that is muscular at the base and curved upwards at the end How Long Do Purebred Golden Retrievers Live? Based on statistics, golden retrievers have been found to live an average of years; however, if you go the extra mile in taking proper care of your golden, she can live longer than that. Augie, the oldest known Golden retriever , passed away at the age of .Just as a reminder, taking good care of a golden retriever involves the following: Proper diet. The Golden Retriever's kindly expression says it all. This is one of the finest family dogs in the world: cheerful, demonstrative, trustworthy with everyone, and forgiving of any mistakes made by inexperienced owners. Friendly with everyone strangers, children, dogs, cats, smaller pets , his bark is welcoming rather than protective. They don't mean any harm but things can go flying — including people who are not steady on their feet. If you have toddlers, or if you or anyone who lives with you is infirm, consider adopting an adult Golden Retriever from a rescue group. Adults have a wonderfully settled temperament and you can specifically look for a calm one. As with Labrador retrievers, the muzzle of the British type golden retriever is shorter and wider and it has a blockier build. The legs and tail of the British type are shorter and the chest is deeper than the American type golden retriever. British type goldens are generally heavier dogs and have rounder eyes as opposed to triangular-shaped eyes. He's a large, strong dog, though, and he can easily knock over a small child by mistake. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. Teach your child never to approach any dog while he's eating or sleeping or to try to take the dog's food away. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. The Golden's attitude toward other pets is the more the merrier. He enjoys the companionship of other dogs, and with proper introductions and training, can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. They are obedient, playful, intelligent, well-mannered, great with kids, and kindly to strangers. They are good watchdogs, but make lousy guard dogs as they love people far too much to be effective. Golden Retrievers are always at the top of their obedience classes and are often the champions of sporting competitions. Hunters find them to be reliable bird dogs, and their keen sense of smell and desire to work alongside people makes them sought-after narcotics sniffers. Golden Retrievers need people and are best suited for large, active families. The correct relationship of length of body to height is .The Golden Retriever is a dog without exaggeration. Another essential characteristic is proper temperament. A Golden Retriever is friendly, calm, compliant and compatible with people and other dogs. Goldens are particularly good with children. The Golden Retriever is a powerfully built dog, with a good nose for tracking, a soft mouth, and an eagerness to learn. When I got him as a puppy, I thought he'd help me pick up girls, but that never happened. Instead, he helped me learn something else. Really, Goldens are like little furry Buddhas. They are like a small drop of God's love made incarnate. My dog loved everybody. He just met you--he loved you like an old friend. He would lean on people and just stare up at them with his doleful eyes, looking to be petted. And when he did this, people began to relax and open up. Here I was, a teenage boy hoping to use my cute fluffball to meet girls when we went out for walks, and instead my dog became an impromptu therapy dog for people from all walks of life. People would tell me about their dogs who had passed. People would tell me about their worries about their kids. People would tell me about their problems, their struggles with addiction, their hopes of reuniting with family members--all stuff that was way too big and heavy for a seventeen-year-old kid to handle. My dog's simple, unconditional love for all revealed the broken world around me. He helped me want to do better, want to be better. Goldens are special. She was just trying to bring back a ball and didn't see me. She was moving very fast. Pumpkin was a good, good girl. Positive reviews. About inches at the shoulder, with males usually in the higher half of that range, and females usually in the lower half. Weight can be as low as 55 pounds, but is usually pounds. However, there are many oversized Goldens, with some individuals topping 90 pounds. Unfortunately, this heavier weight isn't good for their joints. Where does the Golden Retriever come from, and why was the breed developed? He was developed in England and Scotland as both a land hunter and a water retriever retrieving shot ducks from the water. What kind of temperament and personality does the Golden Retriever have? To get an idea of what a breed might be like, always look at what he was developed to do see the question above. Many of the Golden Retriever's characteristics -- his strong body, his energy level and enthusiasm, his love of swimming and retrieving, his strong desire to carry things around in his mouth -- are hardwired into his genes, because they were needed for a retriever to do his work. Can Golden Retrievers be any color other than golden? I've seen some reddish ones. Golden Retrievers come in only one color, but the shade of their coat ranges from reddish like an Irish Setter to medium gold to pale cream to nearly white. It's all the same breed, and no shade is more desirable than another. Golden Retrievers do tend to turn white around their muzzle at a fairly young age -- this is normal for the breed. During the winter, some Golden Retrievers will lose pigment on their nose, which turns pinkish. This is a harmless and temporary condition referred to as "snow nose. Their silky feathering needs to be kept combed to avoid mats and tangles, which can be quite painful, as they pull on your dog's skin whenever he moves. The worst places for mats and tangles are behind their ears, behind their front legs in their "armpits" , and on their chest, stomach, and groin. Their legs and paws also need to be kept combed, and their tail. The rest of their body can just be brushed. Several times a year, their feathering should be trimmed short to make it easier to comb. You can do this yourself, or have a professional groomer do it. During shedding season see the next question , you should brush your Golden Retriever every day to pull out the worst of the dead hair so less of it ends up on your floor and furniture. How much do Golden Retrievers shed? Golden Retrievers shed quite heavily. They shed some hairs here and there throughout the year, with the bulk of their shedding occurring twice a year, for three weeks in the spring as their winter coat switches over to a cooler summer coat, and three weeks in the fall as their summer coat switches over to a thicker winter coat. Do Golden Retrievers have a doggy odor? Yes, definitely, and it can be quite strong. Are there different builds in Golden Retrievers? My brother has a hunting Golden Retriever, which looks different than the Goldens on the Westminster Kennel Club dog show. Yes, breeders who show their dogs in the conformation ring produce Golden Retrievers who look quite different from the Golden Retrievers produced by breeders who specialize in hunting and field trials. Golden Retrievers from show lines are stockier and heavier-boned, with a large blocky head and dense coat. How long do Golden Retrievers live, and what health problems do they have? Typically years. Some reach years. Do crossbred or mixed breed Goldens make good pets? What about "Goldendoodles"? They do make good pets, yes, but first you need to know what a purebred dog really is -- and what crossbred and mixed breed dogs really are. Can you help me decide whether the Golden Retriever is the best breed for me? Yes, I offer personal consultations on choosing the best breed for your family and lifestyle. Learn more about my Dog Breed Consulting Service. Do male dogs or female dogs make better pets? Ah, let the debate begin! Honestly, male Golden Retrievers have pros and cons, and female Golden Retrievers have pros and cons. First you need to know what registration papers really mean -- and don't mean. There's an adorable Golden Retriever puppy at the pet shop. The store manager assures me they only buy from responsible breeders. Could this be true? There are no responsible Golden Retriever breeders who would ever place one of their Golden Retriever puppies in a pet shop for resale. How do I find a good Golden Retriever breeder? It's hard! The sad truth is that the vast majority of people offering Golden Retriever puppies for sale are unknowledgeable, irresponsible, completely clueless -- or all of the above. How do I pick the best Golden Retriever puppy from a litter? You can do puppy personality tests. I'm interested in adopting a dog rather than buying from a dog breeder. How do I find Golden Retriever dogs for adoption? You can find Golden Retrievers available for adoption from dog rescue groups or from the animal shelter. I just got a new Golden Retriever. Which pages should I read first? Golden Retriever Health , which includes my advice on feeding, vaccinations, and health care. These pages are very important, because if you start your Golden Retriever puppy off on the wrong foot, he will probably experience health problems later on. Training Golden Retrievers , which includes my advice on respect training, housebreaking, and socialization. Again, you must start your Golden Retriever puppy off on the right foot by teaching him what he needs to know and you must avoid doing the wrong things with him so that he doesn't develop bad habits that will be much harder to fix later on. What's a good training schedule for training Golden Retriever puppies? What things should I teach, and when? How do I housebreak my Golden Retriever? The key to housebreaking your Golden Retriever is confinement, confinement, confinement. My Golden Retriever has some behavior problems I'd like to solve. Respect training solves behavior problems much better than obedience training. What's the best dog food for Golden Retrievers? Homemade dog food. If you can't make your own homemade meals, a company called NomNomNow will make them and deliver them to your house. I have to take my Golden Retriever to the vet soon for shots. Which vaccinations does he really need? The schedule of vaccinations that dogs really need has changed dramatically -- but most vets are not telling you the truth about this! Don't let your vet give your Golden Retriever any more shots until you've read my article on Puppy Shots and Dog Vaccinations. What are the pros and cons of spaying and neutering my Golden Retriever, and when should it be done? Spaying and neutering are often recommended too early, which can lead to health problems later in life. My vet doesn't agree with some of the things you've written about health care. There are two competing veterinary organizations in the United States and they disagree on just about every aspect of canine health care. Visit Think Your Veterinarian's Good? Here's How To Tell. I have a question about Golden Retrievers that I don't see answered on your web site. It's probably answered in one of my books:. This is one of the finest family dogs in the world: cheerful, demonstrative, trustworthy with everyone, and forgiving of any mistakes made by inexperienced owners. Give this breed two brisk walks each day, play fetch games, and take him out for a good run once a week, and he is adaptable to almost any lifestyle. Friendly with everyone strangers, children, dogs, cats, smaller pets , his bark is welcoming rather than protective. You must control his tendency to chew on objects and to mouth your hands -- provide a box filled with toys so he can carry things around in his mouth. A Golden Retriever remains enthusiastically puppy-like for many years, so early obedience training is required to instill calmness and good manners. Eager to please and wonderfully responsive, he is nonetheless distracted by exciting sights and sounds, so you must be both patient and persistent. The mind and heart of a Golden is sweet and gentle, but his body is robust -- until he's taught not to pull on the leash, you'll need good biceps to walk him. If you want a dog who.Is large, athletic, and natural-looking Has a pretty feathered coat Has a cheerful, tail-wagging nature Is steady-tempered and dependable with everyone Is peaceful with other animals Is eager to please and very responsive to training A Golden Retriever may be right for you. If you don't want to deal with.Providing a goodly amount of exercise Exuberant jumping, especially when young Mouthiness -- chewing on things, carrying things around Regular brushing and combing to avoid mats and tangles Heavy shedding Concerns about a multitude of serious health problems A Golden Retriever may not be right for you. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Golden Retrievers have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Books by Michele Welton "Respect Training for Puppies" or "Respect Training for Adult Dogs" is a step by step guide to help you bring out the best in your pup so you can enjoy a calm and well-behaved dog, no matter what his age. Get your book today. A healthy dog is a happy dog, so buy your copy today. High energy when young. Young Golden Retrievers up to two or three years old romp and jump with vigor. They don't mean any harm but things can go flying — including people who are not steady on their feet. If you have toddlers, or if you or anyone who lives with you is infirm, consider adopting an adult Golden Retriever from a rescue group. Adults have a wonderfully settled temperament and you can specifically look for a calm one. Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. Golden Retrievers were developed to be hunting dogs, which mean they are athletic and smart dogs. They need regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. You can't just let them in and out of the back yard and think that qualifies! They will become bored — which they may express by becoming rambunctious and destructive. You can control your Golden Retriever's bounciness AND keep him mentally stimulated by enrolling him in ongoing agility classes an obstacle course for dogs. Also follow the training program in my book Teach Your Dog English Words , which includes lots of fun exercises for your Golden. Shedding and doggy odor. Golden Retrievers are heavy shedders — you need to be okay with this reality. You'll find a lot of hair on your clothing and furniture. Golden Retrievers also have a noticeable doggy odor and produce a lot of dander. Not the breed for anyone with any type of allergies! Some Golden Retrievers have a medium-length coat that's not difficult to groom, while others have a heavier coat with lots of feathering. These latter dogs need regular grooming to comb out tangles before they become painful mats. Goldens also need occasional clippering and scissoring, especially around their "bathroom parts" in order for those to remain sanitary. Serious health problems. Unfortunately, the Golden Retriever has lots and lots of potential health problems. Many Goldens do live to 12 or 13 years old, but they're not necessarily healthy during those years; chronic health issues can really take their toll. Many other Goldens are lost at age 6 or 7 or 8, to crippling joint and bone diseases, heart disease, epilepsy, or cancer. Golden Retrievers should not be fed a kibble diet, as this can cause or worsen skin disorders and allergies, which are all too common. I recommend feeding a homemade diet of real meat and vegetables and absolutely no grain. Read more about Golden Retriever Health. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy.

With a deep understanding of behavioral learning theories and a passion for the physical and psychological well-being of animals, Amanda specializes in using non-coercive, reinforcement-based approaches to generate desired behaviors. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 44, times. Is your new puppy chewing on and eating stones? Fortunately, it's possible to train your puppy to stop eating stones and start focusing all of their adorable puppy energy elsewhere. Keep reading to learn why puppies eat stones and how to stop it from happening. Steps Section 1 of 3: Why do puppies eat stones? All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Puppies are naturally curious and have a small attention span, which can be a tricky combination. They need to be entertained, or their curiosity can get them into trouble. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Small rocks and pebbles can look a lot like kibble to a puppy. If a puppy lacks any nutrients, they may resort to eating rocks. Pica is a disorder where dogs eat non-food items. Pica can be caused by a variety of things, like poor diet, anxiety, and more serious health conditions like gastrointestinal disease and liver disease. If your puppy starts vomiting or having trouble going to the bathroom, bring them to a vet as soon as possible. This command is especially important when training a puppy because it could be the difference between praise and a trip to the emergency clinic. Follow these steps to teach your pup this simple command: [5] X Research source Place a high-value treat in one hand and a basic treat in the other. Make a fist with the hand holding the basic treat and let your pup sniff your fist. Training your puppy to drop stones can save them from potential health risks. Go to source Offer your pup a high-value toy. Let them play for a few seconds. Place a high-value treat in front of them. Pick up the toy and hide it behind your back as they eat the treat. Keep repeating and then give the cue without showing treats. A game of fetch or tug-of-war or even taking them on a walk or hike will keep them occupied. Go to source Play fetch to tire your puppy out before they go outside. Fill a puzzle toy with treats or kibble to keep your puppy mentally stimulated. Find these toys online or try your hand at making your own. Kong and Nylabone toys are great distraction and active toys that give your pup something to chew and play with. Most packaging will suggest what age range the toy is best for. Their bodies are looking for more food, so they turn to what looks most like it—rocks! Go to source Chat with your vet to see what diet is best for your pup. Every dog and breed is different, and their diet depends on their genetics and day-to-day lives. Bitter tastes will keep a puppy away from just about anything. If your furry friend finds ways to sneak stones into their mouth, spritz the rocks or pebbles with anti-chewing spray. The bad taste will make them less likely to chew on and eat the stones. Buy an anti-chew spray or try making your own. To make your own spray, combine a ratio of water and distilled white vinegar. Add 20 drops of an organic citrus essential oil like lemon or bergamot. Puppies need a safe place they can roam without getting into trouble. Set up a playpen in an area of your yard, making sure to remove any stones inside the pen. Go to source Advertisement Section 3 of 3: Do puppies grow out of eating stones? Go to source Help your pup grow out of their stone-eating habit with basic training. Teaching basic commands and tricks can help them mature into the best and brightest non-stone-eating dog. Photo by Shane Guymon on Unsplash Why do puppies eat stones? Puppies eat stones to investigate their taste and texture, to chew on while teething, to strengthen their jaw muscles, due to a lack of calcium, nutritional or dietary deficiencies, boredom, or because they are a breed that likes to have something in their mouth, such as Spaniels and Retrievers. Puppies will often put everything in their mouths , including rolling stones no not Mick Jagger or holding pebbles in their mouth. Most will spit them out, but some will try to swallow them too, which is dangerous! How do I get my puppy to stop eating stones? To stop your puppy from eating stones, ensure that their nutritional needs are met, that they are not bored, that they have ways of expressing breed-specific behavior, teach them to leave it and drop, and stop any punishment-based techniques that you may have been tempted to use. Check out our puppy nutrition , raw feeding for puppies and home cooking for your dog guides. Prevent boredom by using enrichment toys Brain games and puzzle toys w ill all help to prevent boredom in your dog, and give them something better to do than entertain themselves with stones. Provide Breed Specific Outlets If you have a Gundog or retrieving mixed-breed, such as a Labrador , Cockapoo , Cocker or Springer Spaniel, then they are genetically engineered to find carrying things around in their mouth rewarding. The Zigzag app is specifically written to work with breed differences because retrievers gonna retrieve, German Shepherds want to work and Terriers gonna rag and tear! Teach them to leave it Teaching your dog to leave it if they start to go towards stones can be a really useful way to stop your dog from eating stones. They need to learn this one before you start using it on high-value things like pebbles and stones, so teach them to leave food and toys with the help of our article on leave it or the more detailed leave it lessons in the Zigzag app. Teach your dog to drop Teaching a dog to drop things on cue, is a good idea for lots of reasons, and not only to teach your dog not to eat stones. It will help prevent your dog from swallowing the stone and prevent you from having to go in and fish the stones out, which can lead to resource guarding if not handled correctly. Teach your pup with Zigzag today! Avoiding getting cross! Muzzle if necessary Muzzles can be a good management tool to prevent your dog from picking up and eating stones. Photo by Emy Nguyen on Unsplash What happens if my puppy swallows a stone? Stones can cause intestinal blockages; symptoms of this can include diarrhea , constipation and lack of appetite. When you take your puppy to the vet , they may suggest an X-ray in order to make an informed decision as to what to do next. In some cases, if the stone is large, your puppy may require surgery to have the stone removed. If you have a puppy who is a gravel grazer or a stone scoffer, there are things you can do to stop your puppy from eating stones. This can range from an increase in enrichment to dietary changes, and positive reinforcement training to teach them to leave the stones alone. Head on over to our leave it guide to stop the stone eating, or how about learning why does my puppy eat everything? It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. OCD obsessive-compulsive disorder Brain lesions Early intervention is very important to prevent pica from becoming a chronic disease. There are several training approaches that I explain further below to prevent any bad habits. Curiosity Young puppies are extremely curious and want to explore their environment all day. Chewing and mouthing things provide a puppy with plenty of information and increases the scent perception. Supervision will be mandatory to quickly intervene in case your dog accidentally swallows something. My dog used to be very mouth oriented as a puppy, so you had to be very alert during walks. After a few weeks, your puppy should grow out of that curiosity. Because pica and curiosity are not easy to differentiate, an appointment with the vet should be able to rule out any underlying medical issues that would need to be treated. Boredom A dog that is bored will get into all kinds of behavior habits like digging, excessive vocalization, or chewing. This mostly happens in dogs that are left outside in the yard alone for an extended period of time. With nothing to do, your dog will quickly get into digging up the grass or chewing on stones. To solve this problem, you can read my guide on 12 boredom busters that will keep your dog entertained in the yard. Make sure that your dog has plenty of physical exercise s as well as daily mental stimulation. Puppies love to get engaged with a tug -of-war and a few short walks will do the trick. Dietary Deficiencies Puppies need lots of calories and proteins for optimal growth. An unbalanced diet may have serious consequences. Your dog will try to get his nutrients from somewhere else, whatever that will be — stones or even feces. Dog food specifically formulated for puppies should provide him with everything he needs. The sharp edges of stones could break teeth and injure the digestive tract. The results of this would be diarrhea , vomiting, pain, and even internal bleeding. Your dog could suffocate if he chews on multiple stones at a time. The older your puppy becomes, the less he will be mouth orientated, and the more he will explore his environment by simply smelling. Typical chewing and eating behaviors may stop at around 6 months of age. But some dogs will never grow out of it, especially if it was reinforced in the past through negative attention. To keep your puppy safe until this age and to prevent the behavior from becoming chronic, training and prevention will be necessary. My Rottweiler picked up all kinds of nasty stuff as many puppies do and that includes stones. Fortunately, my dog never swallowed the rocks but carried them instead. Nevertheless, I had to discourage her from picking up things for a couple of months until the behavior slowly faded. How to Stop a Dog from Eating Rocks The first thing to help eliminate the problem would be to remove any stones from his environment including the house and yard. During walks, pay close attention to your puppy. Is he just smelling the roses or secretly picking up pebbles? You may want to look into a mesh muzzle like the Lepark Nylon Mesh Dog Muzzle that will prevent your dog from picking up any stones in the first play. Follow the steps in my muzzle training guide for a proper introduction. This will not only help with eating stones but will also get some structure into everyday play sessions. Follow the steps in the infographic below and your puppy will learn it so quickly: Do not engage with your dog in any play involving stones, rocks, or similar objects. Following these tips will eventually stop the behavior with the right prevention, supervision, and training. And always keep in mind to take your dog to the vet first. Pet Deterrent Spray for Stones Aversive conditioning can be very successful if the eating is targeted to a specific object. Rather than punishing the behavior, it will reduce the likelihood that the dog will perform it in the first place. If your puppy usually chews on stones, spraying something unpleasant on top of it is a form of prevention. It is important to choose a non-toxic and effective spray like this Bitter Lemon Spray for Dogs. You may have to try a variety of different sprays as some dogs weirdly like the taste. Pin This: Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Puppies are always exploring and picking up things in their mouths. More often than not it tends to be things that are rather dangerous if swallowed. There are things you can be doing to stop puppies eating stones. Chewing stones is a common problem, particularly with puppies. They usually grow out of this behaviour, but sometimes the habit continues into adulthood and often surgery is needed to remove them. You can see here a Labrador who ate 13 large stones! Why does my pup eat stones? We are not sure why stones are so attractive to chew or swallow, but it could be a throw back to their ancestry as wild coyotes and wolves are known to chew stones. However, vets do not advise you letting your dog eat them as they can break their teeth and get caught in their intestines and lead to serious health problems. Sometimes there is an underlying health problem that makes your dog eat pebbles. It could be ill or in pain or another possibility is that it could be deficient in phosphorus, calcium or iron. Or it could just be plain boredom and the dog needs more stimulation and exercise. Again a necessary trip to the vet! Training puppies to stop eating pebbles For puppies, the best training solution is distraction. Take a variety of toys and play with him so he learns there is an alternative to stones. Try not to tell him off as this can reinforce the behaviour. Begin practising with a toy that your puppy is showing interest in. Hold it in one closed hand and let him sniff it. Wait for him to turn away and then immediately praise and offer him a better reward from the other hand. Using this principle continue practising bringing in other toys that he finds more tempting. Try the technique with items on the floor as well. Fortunately, with time and patience and plenty of playful interaction with toys this behaviour can be stopped. If you require further help or advice on this topic please do not hesitate to contact us. Attention Seeking by Dirt Eating? Your dirt eating dog gets a lot of attention. I bet you want to stop me! Dog dirt eating can be completely resolved by giving them a bit more exercise or attention. Ignore any dirt eating behavior from your dog. Something Buried in the Soil Dog dirt eating can just be a result of a strongly flavored area of soil. Perhaps something tasty to your dog has been spilled there, or is buried in that patch of soil? It might help just to wait them out and see if they return with anything specific or interesting. This option is especially worth considering if your dog keeps digging and snacking in the same place. Why Do Puppies Eat Stones? Dirt eating in dogs is bad enough, but it can be the tip of the iceberg. Eating stones is a very common activity among puppies. In many cases, it probably starts with the puppy just exploring a pebble or two with his mouth. Puppies are similar to toddlers in that way; they use their mouths to explore new sensations. But of course, we worry that the puppy will choke or swallow the thing, and we try to get it off him. It helps to avoid the swallowing habit getting started. Puppies often grow out of eating rubbish. But, if your dog eating stones or rocks persists into adulthood it can be much more serious. Why Do Dogs Eat Sticks? Many dogs that appear to be eating sticks are actually just chewing them up. For Labs, this chewing is often born from their retriever instincts. Still, stress, boredom, and anxiety exacerbates these chewing tendencies. Most of the tiny bits that the stick breaks down into, are spat out. But if your dog is actually eating and swallowing wood, then you should be worried. Swapping the stick for something tasty makes it less likely that your dog will swallow what is in his mouth, or run off with it. However, for some dogs, eating everything and anything is a real psychological problem and health risk. These dogs often consume items of clothing such as socks , dishcloths and cleaning rags, toys, batteries , sticks and pretty much anything they find lying around. Why Do Dogs Eat Trash? Many dogs love a good trash rummage. There are a few reasons why your dog loves to snoop in the trash. Dogs also love weird smells. Still, trash-loving dogs have serious issues too. Either way, if you find it happening too often or your instincts tell you there might be more to it, see your vet. Eating organic waste such as rotting animals or animal waste products is natural behavior for your dog. Dead seagulls, horse manure and his own poop, are actually substances your Labrador can digest. At least, for the most part, with no ill effects — however disgusting we find his behavior. But, perhaps the most common source of anxiety for new owners, is the dog that eats poop, whether his or that of other dogs. Still, take comfort from the fact that unless your dog has developed a taste for poisonous mushrooms it happens , for the most part he will probably come to no harm from eating organic material. Unfortunately, this is not the case with dogs that consume inorganic objects. With a few dogs, however, regardless of how it started, eating everything becomes a dangerous habit resulting in repeated foreign body ingestion. Indeed, a few dogs do seem hellbent on getting themselves onto an operating table. These are dogs that eat stones, nails, plastic bags, and the contents of your washing line. We are not talking about the puppy who once swallowed a pebble that you tried to take out of his mouth. Or the dog who eats the rotten dead squirrel he finds on a walk. We are talking about regular, compulsive eating of inappropriate and inedible items. And if your Labrador falls into this category, it can be very upsetting and frustrating — not to mention expensive. I have known two dogs like this. One was a Labrador of my own who compulsively ate clothing. And another was a flat-coated retriever who ate dangerous quantities of vegetation. He eventually needed an operation to remove a large spiked piece of pyracanthus a prickly shrub from his stomach. Several dogs have had to undergo major surgery after eating a stomach full of pebbles on the beach, or swallowing cutlery or laundry. Use a trash can with a locking lid. See some of our favorite dog-proof trash cans here. This will keep your dog out of the trash at home, at least. Get your dog checked at the vet. If your dog keeps eating dirt ravenously, get them checked for anemia or any medical conditions that could cause pica. Distract your dog from dirt, stones, and other trash by swapping. You can see some of our favorites here. This may cause them to swallow it. Gently approach and try to swap the harmful object. Make sure your dog gets enough exercise everyday. This reduces boredom and the desire to dig. Provide lots of supervision. If all else fails, see a behaviorist. Do your best. If the dogs seems well and happy, the vet will usually advise a wait and watch policy to see if it emerges through the normal channels. Then, talk to your vet by phone if you are not sure whether to take the dog into his office. Make sure your dog is supervised in areas that they could get into mischief Puppies Teething puppies can chew items such as stones to relieve the discomfort of new teeth coming through teething. They can also be interested in stones as a play object or because they are bored. Just like human babies, puppies explore their environment with their mouths. Care must be taken to supervise puppies where they could ingest foreign material leading to a blockage in their intestines, a life-threatening condition. Anxiety can manifest in inappropriate, destructive behaviour, urinating or defaecating in the home or through pica. So the resultant behaviour is of an anxious reaction or one of frustration. Puzzle feeders and interactive toys can be useful in getting your dog used to being happy by themselves or self-soothing. Consider seeking help from a veterinary behaviourist your vet can direct you to a suitably qualified person if this type of intervention is needed. Medical reasons Some medical conditions lead to excessive hunger polyphagia and inability to use food as energy and so dogs will begin to see non-food items as edible. Some medications such as prednisolone can also lead to pica as a side effect. Parasites such as worms take away some of the nutrients your dog consumes and so leads to weight loss and polyphagia and sometimes pica. Not enough nutrition would also be a leading cause of pica. What to do if my dog eats stones? Firstly, schedule an exam with your veterinarian A physical exam potentially in combination with blood tests, urine and stool samples, can investigate any underlying issues with your dog that can be medically addressed. A complete diet formulated by veterinary nutritionists will be the easiest way to ensure your dog has the right ingredients for health for their life stage. Furthermore, have fun Make sure your dog is properly stimulated. Have lots to do in the office that day? Make sure your dog is supervised in areas that they could get into mischief Alternatively, remove them from their environment and introduce training methods early. Look into puzzle feeders to make mealtimes more interesting and take longer so your dog is distracted if you have specific tasks to get on with that day. It also can help them learn to relax on their own or enjoy time with yourself; leading to a well-rounded happy dog. Further Reading:.

Let me present to you how I think puppy chow should always look: Beautiful, chunky clusters. The puppy chow I grew up with was more like individual pieces of cereal that were completely coated with powdered sugar. It was served room temperature and you ate it one piece at a time. This stays true to the basics but just dials up everything good: the chocolate, the peanut butter, the butter. It gives just a little more excitement with the texture, the shape, the temperature. It makes for supremely satisfying grazing. It is one of the great Midwestern food contributions of the 80s and 90s my roots! Microwave works fine. This is the Midwest. We are not fancy. Melted chocolate goes in with the cereal. Toss with Powdered Sugar Once the cereal is coated, toss it with powdered sugar so each piece is coated and dry enough to touch. Midwestern kids of the 90s hello will agree with me that mixing the chocolate coated cereal in a paper grocery bag is the authentic and proper technique. I mean, is it really puppy chow without the paper bag? But in reality, any big bag ziplock, paper bag, even a big mixing bowl that you can toss very gently so as not to break the cereal will get the job done. I keep it in airtight containers like a lidded plastic food storage container, for example or just in a Ziplock bag. Yes, the fridge works, the counter will even work. Plus, it travels well and makes it last longer. I hope this helps you live a little more lightly in August. How long does this last? In the freezer, this can last for a few months. With this work with other nut butters? This also works well with Sun Butter. Is the paper bag necessary? Nutrition information With only six ingredients, puppy chow muddy buddies is extremely quick and easy to whip up, making it the perfect recipe for the busy holiday season. Puppy chow ingredients This sweet snack mix is made of six super simple ingredients! The best part? You probably have all of the ingredients on hand already. All of the ingredients are staple pantry and fridge items that all have a long shelf life. Rice chex cereal makes the base of this recipe and makes this snack mix super crunchy and addicting. Semi-sweet chocolate chips. Peanut butter gets melted together with the chocolate chips and creates an amazingly creamy mixture that coats the cereal. Use smooth peanut butter — instead of chunky — to ensure even melting. Unsalted butter. Vanilla extract. Powdered sugar. Set aside. Place chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter into a large microwave safe bowl or measuring cup. Melt until smooth, then stir in vanilla extract. Pour chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently stir together. Stir in the powdered sugar. Tips for making puppy chow muddy buddies There are SO many recipes for puppy chow, but I promise you, my recipe is the best, because of these tips and tricks. Use the whole box of cereal. Most recipes call for 9 cups of cereal, leaving 2 cups left in the box. What the heck are you supposed to do with 2 cups of chex?! Use the whole bag of chocolate chips. More is more in this recipe. Just throw the whole bag in. Use more powdered sugar than you think necessary. Chunks are the best part. Just trust me on this one. How to store puppy chow Puppy chow can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. It does not need to be refrigerated, but some people prefer it chilled. Puppy chow recipe substitutions If you can, I highly recommend making the recipe as is. It truly is the perfect combination of crunchy, sweet, chocolate-y, peanut buttery goodness. Do I have to use semi-sweet chocolate? You can use dark chocolate or even milk chocolate, but semi-sweet is really gives you that perfect sweet, but not too sweet balance. Processed peanut butter — think Jiff or Skippy — works best, but sunflower seed butter should work as well. Butter is essential, but try using a vegan buttery spread instead. Do I need to use vanilla extract? No, you can omit it, but you will loose some of that cozy depth of flavor. I grew up calling it puppy chow but plenty of people call it muddy buddies. It depends on where you live. Other names:. When we make something delicious we go big. Nope, we really go for it. Puppy chow is one of those recipes that you can find in a million places, with a million variations, but one thing always annoyed me. You are always left with a weird amount of cereal in the box when you were done. So I wanted to change that for me and for all of you. I wanted to give you a recipe that not only used up the whole box, but that would also be great if you were serving a crowd, sharing at a party, or making gifts for friends, teachers or family. So here we go.Get your big bowl and appetite ready! Sure you can, but do you really want to??? Can this recipe be made nut-free, dairy-free or gluten-free? Feel free to adapt in other ways as you feel necessary: Nut-free: swap the peanut butter for creamy sunbutter and you should be good to go. Dairy-free: you can easily substitute the butter for a dairy free plant based butter. Gluten-free: this one is super easy, just make sure you are using a gluten free version of the cereal. There are a few and any of them will work How do you make big batch puppy chow? The hardest part of making this big batch of deliciousness is finding large enough zip top bags to shake the whole thing up. I find using two and a half gallon size bags works well. Simply mix the cereal into the melty mixture with a big spoon until all the cereal is well covered. I like to put the powdered sugar into the bag before dumping the chocolaty cereal in, just cuts down on the mess hahaha , and I find that it is easier to cover the cereal more evenly. Then, spread out on a wax paper or parchment lined baking tray or two or four depending on how big they are until everything is set. If your house is warm, you may want to put in the fridge for a bit. Tips and Tricks: This recipe is great for a party. Save a few dollars since you are going to coat it in all the delicious things anyway! Looking for other easy kid friendly recipes? Check these out! Jump to Video Jump to Recipe This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy. Snack mixes are one of the best party foods. How to Make Puppy Chow You can break the process down into three easy steps. Measure your cereal into a large bowl and set aside. In 1 quart sauce pan, heat semisweet chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter over low heat stirring frequently with a spatula until melted. Remove from heat and stir in a teaspoon vanilla. Pour chocolate mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into two gallon resealable plastic bags. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag and shake until well coated. Spread over waxed or parchment paper to cool. You want each piece of chex to have an ample amount of chocolaty peanut butter sauce for the sugar to stick to. If you like your mix extra saucy try reducing the Chex amount to only cups. You can also customize it to whatever holiday candy is being sold at the time. This can also be made dairy free by using the right chocolate and a butter substitute like margarine. Sunbutter, soybutter, almond butter, and cashew Butter are great substitutes for peanut butter in this recipe. You can even use Nutella instead for extra chocolatey Puppy Chow. It can stay at room temperature for up to 10 days, or kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. However, at my house it never lasts that long! Allow it to thaw before eating. This will allow it to set and dry. These are great for parties, get-togethers, and more! This is also the best Muddy Buddy recipe you will ever have. Muddy Buddies or Puppy Chow is seriously one of the best treats ever! This recipe is so great because it uses an entire box of Chex mix! No need to measure. And no worries about sharing because there is plenty for everyone! Muddy Buddies are so good because they are chocolatey, peanut buttery, crunchy, tasty, and oh so delicious! Muddy Buddy Ingredients: The ingredients are simple but together they create magic! Semisweet Chocolate Chips- Semisweet is just the best! Not too sweet, not too bitter. Salt- This recipe is plenty sweet so adding just a pinch of salt really helps contrast the sweetness. Vanilla Extract- Vanilla makes everything better! It adds such a delicious taste. It gives Muddy Buddies a snowy look and delicious sweet taste. You can also vary the amount of powdered sugar that is added, depending on your preference. A lot of Muddy Buddy recipes I see are pure white from powdered sugar overload. Pure heaven! But you can store Muddy Buddies in an airtight container… -at room temperature for about 4 days. I know a lot of people who love to freeze Muddy Buddies and eat it straight from the freezer! It just depends on the texture you prefer.

We get asked which size collar would be best for a particular dog breed or types. So here we have compiled a list of dog breeds and their usual neck measurements - and recommended collars. Hindquarters dog collars are available in sizes from XS to Large. XS dog collars fit necks between 18 and 30cm or inches. Small collars fit cm or inches. Medium between cm. And Large dog collars are cm. Airedale: cm inches - we would recommend a comfy Hindquarters large size green or brown fabric cotton dog collar. Brighter colours, like a red dog collar , would work well too. Basset Hound: cm inches - we would recommend a Hindquarters large size brown or khaki soft cotton fabric dog collar. Beagle: cm inches - we would advise a medium sized dog collar in strong but soft and comfy cotton fabric weave, bright colours like red and purple work well. Bichon Frise: cm inches - a small size comfy dog collar would probably be best, perhaps red or blue. Or a small size adjustable harness. Border Collie: cm inches - an adjustable medium size comfy cotton collar would work well, perhaps black or grey. Border Terrier: cm inches - we advise a small size collar made from strong but soft cotton fabric weave, bright purple would work well or khaki for a muted look. Boston Terrier: cm inches - a Hindquarters small size comfy collar would work well, perhaps in red or black. Or a medium size collar would fit too, for a chunkier look. Boxer: cm inches - like lots of other breeds, there can be significant variation according to age and gender and genetics. A strapping Boxer would require a Hindquarters large size dog collar but for a younger slighter Boxer a medium size would work - a comfy khaki collar looks good. Bulldog American: cm inches - a strong but soft Hindquarters large size collar would work. Bulldog English: cm inches - a soft cotton fabric collar would be good, most colours work although red and cobalt blue both look great. Bulldog French: cm inches - either Hindquarters small or medium size collars would work. The medium size cotton dog collar is wider and so probably comfier unless wearing a harness. Bull Terrier: cm inches - a soft but strong Hindquarters medium size cotton collar would be good. Cairn Terrier: cm inches - a small size adjustable washable Hindquarters collar would suit, perhaps in green. Chihuahua: cm inches - a soft XS size dog collar would work. Chinese Crested - cm inches - a soft and comfy XS size dog collar would suit, perhaps in navy or orange. Chow Chow - cm inches - a Hindquarters large dog collar would be good, perhaps the mustard colour. Cocker Spaniel - cm inches - a soft and washable medium sized Hindquarters collar would work well, red always looks good. Collie - cm inches - a large size collar would be best, an adjustable dog collar ensures an exact and comfy fit. Corgi - cm inches - a soft but strong and washable medium sized dog collar works well, khaki and mustard both look good. Dachshund Standard - cm inches - a medium size Hindquarters collar would work best. Dachshund Mini - cm inches - there can be significant variation, most likely a Small or even XS dog collar would work best, soft but strong cotton weave with flex and give is good. Dalmatian - cm inches - an adjustable fabric dog collar in Medium or Large size, red or bright purple would be good. Deerhound - cm inches - a comfy dog collar, cobalt blue looks good. Doberman - cm inches - would require a strong large size collar, maybe black English Setter - cm inches - would require a large size collar. Fox Terrier - cm inches - a small size green fabric dog collar would be good. German Shepherd - cm inches - would require a large size soft but strong fabric dog collar. Golden Retriever - cm inches - a large size dog collar, red is classic. Great Dane - cm inches - a large size dog collar, soft but strong, black or a bright colour like orange works nicely. Greyhound - cm inches - we would recommend a wider soft dog collar, khaki always looks good. Greyhound Italian - cm inches - would require a soft XS collar, blue would suit well. Husky - cm inches - would require a soft but strong large size collar, maybe black or grey. Irish Setter - cm inches - would suit a large size dog collar, bright red would be good or perhaps mustard. Irish Terrier - cm 14 to 18 inches - a medium sized dog collar would work best, green suits well. Jack Russell - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar would work well, grey or red are good colours. Labrador - cm inches - a large sized dog collar would probably work best unless you have a small Lab. A black lab suits classic black but also red and orange , brown works well for a yellow lab. Labradoodle - cm inches - either a medium size or a large size would work, orange looks cute - and is comfy. Maltese - cm inches - a small size or XS collar would be best. Old English Sheepdog - cm inches - a large size soft fabric collar would be good, perhaps grey or red. Papillon - cm inches - an XS fabric dog collar would work well, maybe the red. Pekingese - cm inches - small dog collar size. Pointer - cm inches - a strong but soft large dog collar would work, a red dog collar stands out from the crowd. Pomeranian - cm inches - small or XS sizes. Poodle mini - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar, red always works well. Poodle Standard - cm inches - a small size fabric adjustable dog collar would be comfy, black or blue would suit most coats. Poodle Toy - 20 to 36cm or 8 to 14 inches - a Small or XS fabric dog collar Pug - cm inches - a small sized Hindquarters adjustable fabric dog collar for an exact and comfy fit, bright purple looks good. Schnauzer Standard - cm inches - a comfy adjustable dog collar in medium size, grey looks good. Schnauzer Mini - cm inches - a small size dog collar would be best, grey looks good and would be comfy. Scottish Terrier - cm inches - Medium sized dog collar. Shar Pei - cm inches - large dog collar size. Springer Spaniel - cm inches - an adjustable and washable Hindquarters dog collar in medium size, perhaps green or red. Staffordshire Bull Terrier - cm inches - depending on individual size, a medium or large adjustable fabric dog collar would work well. Vizsla - cm inches - a strong but soft medium size collar, green is a colour that suits well. Weimaraner - cm inches - a soft but strong large size Hindquarters cotton fabric dog collar would work well, both red or bright purple look particularly good and be comfy. West Highland Terrier - cm inches - a small adjustable fabric dog collar, perhaps in green. Yorkshire Terrier - cm inches - either a XS Hindquarters comfy dog collar or perhaps a small size. Please note there is often a wide variation in neck size within different breeds and types of dog, according to genetics, age and gender. So please take our dog breed neck size guide as a rough one. We recommend you measure your dog's neck before ordering a Hindquarters dog collar. How do you measure your dog's neck? It is best to measure the circumference of your dog's lower neck - allowing space for a couple of fingers - to ensure a comfy fit. Or measure your dog's existing collar when flat, between the two points where it fastens. If you have any questions, please get in touch. When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? Adding to their cuteness, they have friendly personalities to match and love playing or sitting with their owners for hours. While they can be active and playful, they are also great dogs for seniors, people with mobility issues, and ideal therapy dogs. While standard, miniature, and toy poodles are all the same breed with a similar appearance, their size is a big differentiating factor. At around 10 inches tall and a weight of approximately 5 pounds, toy poodles are the smallest. Although they have a reputation for being pets of the rich and famous, they were initially bred as hunting dogs. In the late 18th century, they were featured in artwork by famous German artists and became popular as pets with the French aristocracy. Poodles are among the top ten most popular dog breeds for a good reason: They are highly intelligent, trainable, and eager to please their pet parents. Toy poodles can easily get injured if something falls on them or they accidentally get stepped on. They are also more prone to suffer from knee and hip problems as well as blood clotting disorders. Despite their smaller size, the tiny pups have the same number of teeth as other poodle varieties. Their puppy teeth may sometimes stay intact after their adult teeth appear, making it necessary to pull the baby teeth if they cause trouble. Despite these health considerations, toy poodles live between 10 and 18 years, making them long-time companions. Depending on their size and age, toy poodles only need around to calories daily, and you should also ensure that they get enough exercise. Avoid carrying them around everywhere you go, as tempting as it may be, since they will start to expect this royal treatment and become a little lazy. For example, a six-pound pup can enjoy a diet of calories of protein daily in the form of 3 oz turkey breast, 6 oz chicken breast, or 3 oz salmon in addition to another calories in the form of carbs and healthy fats. Potatoes, rice, and oatmeal are generally safe options, while corn, wheat products, onions, macadamia nuts, avocados, and grapes should all be avoided as they are either toxic to dogs or are common causes of allergies. Meat, an especially salmon, already includes some healthy fats with essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. This diet recommendation should be adjusted if your pup shows signs of allergies or bloating. Allergies can manifest in the form of itchy ears, skin ailments, or a sick stomach. The small size of your toy pup means it can get lost or into trouble quite quickly. Too much pressure from collar-tugging or a front-clip harness can be harmful, causing protruding eyes, neck pain, and limited blood flow. The recommended type of harness for a small dog like a toy poodle is a V-neck, back-clip harness. This harness still gives you control and allows guidance without hurting or damaging its fragile constitution and bone structure. It also is less likely to get tangled during walks. If you want a name collar for your toy poodle, make sure it is lightweight and soft. Their small bodies feel extreme temperatures quickly, so it is vital that they have a safe, warm, and comfortable place to sleep indoors. If you need to get a crate for transport or travel, it is essential that there is enough airflow and that you get the correct size. To determine the size, measure your dog from the base of the tail to the tip of its nose and add four inches for the length. For the height, measure from the tallest point of the head to the ground and add four inches. Extra small dogs usually do well in crates between 18 and 22 inches, while small size dog crates are generally 24 inches. Soft crates are ideal for these small dogs from a comfort perspective. They are, however, difficult to clean and not as durable as plastic and metal crate types. If your pet is still a puppy, keep in mind that it will grow, so you may want to opt for a toy poodle adult-size crate to avoid needing to get another one as it grows. Some dogs instinctively curl up into a ball when they sleep to protect their organs and retain body heat. Donut-shaped beds make for a comfortable, inexpensive, and cozy option. They come in a range of different colors, sizes, and fabrics, are easy to move around and feel secure. Two other bed types suitable for older toy poodles or those with arthritis or other health problems are memory foam and orthopedic dog beds. Orthopedic beds are ideal for dogs with muscle, joint, or hip problems. Providing the right back and neck support can promote recovery at night, improve mobility, and alleviate pain. Always take into account how easy it is to clean the bed, whether the cover is removable, and if it is machine-washable. If you want one, consider the size and ensure it will provide protection and optimal temperature control. While your toy poodle is still a puppy, teething toys can help ease discomfort in its mouth as adult teeth start to appear. A teething toy will also be a beneficial distraction instead of having your furniture, or new shoes chomped. Small squeaky toys are engaging, fun, and durable. Some models allow you to fill a plastic ball with small treats, choose a difficulty level, and let your pup enjoy an interactive and engaging endeavor. Since toy poodles love having their pet parents around, leaving them home alone for hours can be distressing. A companion toy can ease anxiety as it provides your fur-baby comfort and a sense of security. Companion toys come in various designs, either as a pillow, teddy bear, or other soft toy shapes. The snuggly toy simulates the sound of a heartbeat and provides body warmth, providing your pup with a soothing companion at any time. Some designs allow you to turn either feature on or off individually and even to set a timer. This makes them great apartment pets and suitable for owners with allergies. It does mean that their coat will need a lot of brushing and grooming, however. Since poodle hair is naturally curly, it is prone to matting if not taken care of. Matting can cause skin infections which will require your furry pup to be shaved. To avoid skin issues, toy poodles should be brushed daily and need a shampoo and haircut every four to six weeks. Make sure the fur style is easy to maintain. Untended hair growth in the ear canal can result in trapped dirt and wax, which can lead to infections. Although you can just use any brush or feeding bowl, there are options designed to make life a little easier for you and more comfortable for your pup. Small-sized slicker brushes, for example, are ideal if you have a toy poodle since they make brushing out tangles easy and can be more beneficial to maintaining skin and coat health than using any old brush or comb. If you opt for a comb, pick stainless steel and antibacterial option with rounded tips for safety. If your dog is getting on in years and struggling to get up onto the couch or cannot get into the car, get a set of dog stairs or even a vehicle ramp to make it easier and safer. Even if toy poodles have joint troubles, they sometimes take the plunge off the couch or bed when they get excited—making it a little easier to get up and down can prevent further injury. If you and your furry best friend love going to the beach, going for walks, or even doing road trips together, a dog travel water bottle is a must. These water bottles have a foldable flap that allows the water to flow directly into a small bowl for your pup to drink easily while on the go — mess-free! Check out our breed hub page to learn more about small breeds like toy poodles. By Amber Dover Amber grew up having golden retrievers and will always have a special place in her heart for the breed. Her love for all things "dog" helped her become a general manager at a small kennel in Ohio for several years. Acquainting dogs and understanding both their needs and limitations have given her deep insights into the boarding process many dogs face in their lives. From consistent details to play time to food and bed time, Amber will always remember the small influences she was able to present to every pooch she cared for.