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Height: 18 - 24 inches at the shoulder Weight: 45 - 70 lb. They can be an inquisitive little fella so keep on the lookout for that behavior! All dogs need attention and don't want to be left alone. That's why you have a pet, right? Plan on putting forth effort to socialize her as this will reap dividends in the long run. Please use always use positive reinforcement even though they can have a mind of their own. Enjoy being with your new mixed breed and love the relationship you will have with them. Catahoula Leopard Dog Poodle Standard Mix Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. We obviously recommend that you look for a reputable animal rescue in your area to find your new mixed breed. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Catahoula Leopard Dog mixed with the Poodle Standard might be prone to hip dysplasia, deafness, eye problems, among others. Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. Even if you know the breed, sometimes it is hard to tell if it will be a heavy shedder or a light shedder. Either way, Get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This mix will more than likely have a high energy level. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog is a good dog though. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the training requirements? This is an intelligent dog that will be a little bit challenging to train. They are going to want to take the alpha position and need someone with a firm, strong, hand that can let them know their place. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. It might have a prey drive and be disposed to running for and chasing small prey, but if handled properly this can be managed. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. I good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. Activity level Growth The Catahoula and Aussie are highly active breeds, so a diet rich in high-quality animal protein and above-average fat content is ideal. High protein foods typically have a high caloric content, so be careful to not overfeed your pup. Generally, you can expect to feed a puppy 1, calories per day and an active adult dog 1, calories. You will need to make adjustments as your dog ages. Remember, these are only estimates. Talking to your veterinarian to discuss the best weight and caloric intake is the best course of action. The Catahoula Aussie mix requires at least 1 hour of vigorous exercise each day. Having a backyard is ideal because the Catahoula and Aussie love going outside. A proper amount of exercise will help avoid weight gain and behavior issues. Otherwise, your Catahoula Aussie will find other ways to occupy its time without an outlet to burn energy. Get your furry companion outside to warrant a stress-free home life as much as possible. Any kind of exercise like running, hiking, and swimming is great. Just be sure the exercise is rigorous and 1—2 hours long. The best training starts when your puppy is around eight weeks old. It is better late than never with training. Early socialization is a key factor in early training. This helps your dog feel comfortable around other dogs and humans. Catahoula Leopard Dogs tend to be more reserved and can be wary of strangers. Early socialization with this breed is crucial. If your dog has more Catahoula genes than Aussie genes, this is particularly important. Australian Shepherds have a thick double-layer coat and are heavy shedders. In any case, neither breed is hypoallergenic. But grooming goes further than brushing and bathing. The Catahoula Aussie Mix is likely to inherit some of these concerns, depending on which genetics dominate the dog. Deafness can be a hereditary issue, or it can result from trauma or illness. Cataracts : Australian Shepherds have several problems with their eyes, but cataracts are the most common issue. Cataracts impair vision and cause total blindness in some cases. Serious Conditions Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures. Australian Shepherds are prone to epilepsy. Instead of sliding smoothly, they rub against each other causing discomfort and pain. Catahoula Leopard Dogs are prone to this, but any dog breed can experience hip and elbow dysplasia. Male vs. Most of the time, these mixes are about the same size as an Australian Shepherd. Generally, the males are larger than the females and are more active. Neutering your dog will help calm these behaviors. This breed could be a good fit if you like unpredictability in a highly active dog. The best place to look is in Louisiana since the Catahoula Leopard Dog is the state dog. Or you can contact breeders for the Catahoula or Aussie and see if they do hybrids. See Also:. As we mentioned above, the Catahoula Leopard dog is a dog with a rich history. What we do know for certain is that the Catahoula Leopard dog is a beautiful, intelligent, and work-oriented dog worth learning about. What might you get if you invest in a Catahoula Leopard dog or a Catahoula Mix? Bred originally to hunt in the harsh swamplands and forests of Louisiana, the Catahoula Leopard dog has since become a Jack of all trades. This hard-working canine also worked as a ranch dog, a cattle droving dog, a guard dog, and simply a canine companion. Catahoulas are incredibly intelligent, but as work-oriented breeds, they are certainly not for the faint of heart. This is a purebred dog that can be especially energetic, which means he can be prone to some serious behavioral issues if he is not kept mentally stimulated and routinely exercised. For this reason, we would not recommend the Catahoula Leopard Dog for first-time dog owners or owners looking for a more laid-back family pet. With that said, if you live an active lifestyle and you have children or other pets, the Catahoula Leopard or a Catahoula Mix could be an excellent addition to your home! These dogs are known to be gentle with children and social with other dogs. Keep in mind they do have strong hunting instincts, and they could be prone to trying to herd younger children and smaller pets around the home. These traits can be worked with and become manageable if you use positive reinforcement training, treats, praise and patience. But while knowing all of this information is great if you plan on investing in a purebred Catahoula Leopard dog, there are a few more things you should consider when it comes to a crossbreed Catahoula mix. Designer dogs, crossbreed dogs, mixed breeds, or hybrids are all terms used to describe a dog that is the offspring of two different purebred parents. For the Catahoula mix dogs case, this could mean your Catahoula mix is a cross between the purebred Catahoula and the purebred Golden Retriever, or the purebred Husky, or the purebred Poodle, etc. The difference between mixed breeds and mutts is that crossbreed dogs are specifically bred to combine the traits of their two parent breeds. Mutts, on the other hand, are generally born by chance and we often are unaware of their lineage without doing a DNA test. Although the practice of crossbreeding has been going on for centuries, its recent uptick in popularity has led to some debate amongst enthusiasts and experts. For some, crossbreeding is a way to reduce potentially deadly genetic health issues in purebred dogs, which have arguably been overbred for generations in an effort to maintain their breed standard. Hybrid vigor, the idea that crossbreeds could be healthier than purebreds, is a promising theory. However, there are those that point out that genetics are genetics, and crossbreed dogs may be just as prone to suffering from genetic health issues as their purebred parent breeds. In fact, many point out that crossbreed dogs could also have a longer list of health issues to deal with as they have two different lineages in their DNA. Another controversy surrounding crossbreed dogs like the Catahoula mix revolves around the predictability of designer dogs. Many crossbreed dogs are often bred and sold for as much or even more than their purebred counterparts, without all of the benefits. Because the Catahoula Leopard dog mix is a newer crossbreed to the scene, he is less likely to be predictable when it comes to traits like temperament, health, and appearance. Furthermore, since a Catahoula mix dog is not purebred, he will not be recognized by most major breed clubs and will therefore not be eligible for show. While many hybrid dogs are bred and sold for top dollar in spite of not being purebred dogs, the Catahoula mix dog is still relatively rare and not very well known. This could play to your favor if you are looking to invest in one of these stunning crossbreeds. This price could be even less if you go through a reputable shelter and find a Catahoula mix dog that is available for adoption. So, are you ready to take the plunge and learn about 12 Catahoula mix dogs worth falling for? Then keep reading! The Catahoula Leopard dog is already a stunning looking purebred. He is capable of having different colored eyes, unique spotting along his coat, and he can grow to be up to 90 pounds. However, we also know that the Catahoula Leopard dog is a very high-energy dog. This dog is also a shedding breed that may not be ideal for some dog owners who suffer from allergies. In fact, Goldens are often some of the top choices for therapy dogs and working breeds throughout the United States and even the world. Mixed with a Catahoula Leopard Dog, the Catahoula Golden will likely be an intelligent, family-oriented, and fun-loving canine companion. This is a mixed breed that will do well with children and other pets when well trained and socialized, although the Catahoula Golden could also be quite energetic. The ideal owner for a Catahoula Golden Retriever Mix is going to be an owner with plenty of time to dedicate to their dog when it comes to exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. This dog will also do best in a home with a large, securely fenced yard where he can run and play. Height: .This is likely attributed to his winning disposition, gentle nature with children and other pets, and eagerness to please his family. The Catahoula Leopard dog also has many of these winning qualities, which could make a Catahoula mix crossed with a Labrador Retriever an excellent addition to the right home or family. Of course, like many of the Catahoula mix dogs on this list, the Catahoula Labrador cross is going to be an energetic dog that is going to need plenty of time dedicated to exercise and mental stimulation. Without the proper exercise and mental stimulation, a Catahoula Labrador mix dog could become bored and destructive. He could develop unwanted behaviors like chewing, marking or barking, and he could even become depressed and anxious. The best home type for a Catahoula Leopard dog will be one with a large, securely fenced yard and a committed owner or family who will spend plenty of time with their canine family member. A working dog through and through, the Catahoula German Shepherd mix is going to be happiest in a home where he has a job to do. He is energetic and needs plenty of exercises, and will be best suited for owners who have an understanding of dogs with a working history. This Catahoula mix is a companion you can count on when he is properly raised, trained, and socialized. However, in the wrong hands, he could become difficult and destructive. Because the Catahoula and the Jack Russell Terrier vary so greatly in size, you could wind up with a dog that is either smaller than most Catahoula mix dogs on our list, or a dog that is just as large as his purebred Catahoula parent breed. Remember, it is difficult to predict genetics and the role they will play in an earlier generation crossbred dog. The Catahoula Jack Russell mix is a crosst that combines brains, beauty, and a hilarious personality. Jack Russell Terriers in particular are feisty little things, and their terrier temperament is not one to be ignored. Catahoula Leopard Dog x Poodle The Poodle and Catahoula mix means you could have a potentially hypoallergenic dog perfect for those who struggle with allergies. Like most doodle hybrids, the Catahoula Doodle is friendly, outgoing, intelligent, and athletic. However, it could be difficult to predict if he will certainly have a hypoallergenic coat. This is a crossbreed that could inherit any number of traits from his different parents, especially if he is an earlier generation crossbreed. If you are someone who is looking for a Catahoula mix crossed with a Poodle due to allergies, we recommend going through a breeder with a history of breeding these types of dogs, and a breeder who can provide you with a later generation crossbreed with a more distinguished coat. On the other hand, if you prefer to rescue your Catahoula Doodle dog, we suggest looking for a dog that is over two years of age, as this dog will likely have its coat already established. The Catahoula Poodle mix is an athletic, intelligent dog that requires an owner who is going to be devoted, active, and committed to spending time with training and exercise. However, the pattern types and the color variations of the Catahoula make for a wide variety of options when it comes to what your Catahoula Dalmatian mix might look like. While we can predict that your Dalmatian Catahoula mix will be spotted and that he will also be a lightly shedding dog, we cannot predict much else. The Dalmatian in particular is an intelligent dog built for athleticism and work. A Catahoula Dal mix is going to be energetic and needs at least an hour or more of exercise devoted to him a day. Like most Catahoula mix dogs on our list, the Catahoula Dal mix is also going to require early training and socialization , and he will thrive in a home with a large, securely fenced yard where he can run and play. While many may think that the smarter a dog is the less maintenance it will be, the opposite actually tends to be true. In fact, the Australian Cattle dog is a herding dog , just like his Catahoula counterpart. As such, the Catahoula Cattle Dog mix is going to have a strong desire to work and will likely not be pleased if he is left without a job to do. With a deep need to feel purpose, the ideal owner for a Catahoula Australian Cattle Dog Mix is going to be an owner with an understanding of working breeds. This is also a dog that would thrive in homes with plenty of land, or with owners who are able to ensure they are providing their dog with routine exercise each and every day. Along with exercise, this Catahoula Mix is also going to need daily mental stimulation, training, and socialization. Catahoula Leopard Dog x Australian Shepherd The Aussie is one of the smartest dogs in the world, and mixed with the Catahoula this hybrid is incredibly brainy. In spite of his name, the Aussie is a dog that is actually considered an American breed. He often worked alongside cowboys, helping to wrangle cattle, sheep, and other livestock. Since the Catahoula Leopard Dog is also a bred herding and working dog, you can expect your Catahoula Aussie to be a work-oriented do g that requires at least an hour or more of daily exercise, consistent training and socialization, and plenty of time and devotion. Like the Catahoula mix crossed with the Cattle Dog above, the Catahoula Aussie is a dog that is best suited for active dog owners with a flexible schedule and owners who live on a large piece of land where their dog can run and play freely. This is a purebred dog who does well with children and other pets, and his comedic personality provides for countless hours of entertainment. When you cross a Catahoula with a Boxer, you get a unique Catahoula mix that could have a variety of traits and physical qualities all his own. If this should occur, you should know that the Catahoula Boxer mix could be prone to some unique health issues as a result of brachycephalic airway syndrome. This is a genetic health issue that is caused by the shape of the skull in flatter-faced breeds. It can lead to respiratory issues and heat intolerance, so your Catahoula Boxer mix should be monitored during very warm weather. Outside of potential health risks, the Catahoula Boxer dog is a great family companion for active owners. He prefers a yard to play in and will make a fun and hardy playmate for youngsters. A dog of the nomadic Chukchi people of Siberia, the Siberian Husky was not just a sled pulling dog, but he served as a guard dog, hunting dog, and infallible canine companion. All this energy has made the Catahoula Husky mix somewhat high maintenance, and he will do his best in homes with dedicated owners who live an active lifestyle and are able to bring their Catahoula Husky mix with them often on adventures. If you have othe r pets or children in the home, the Catahoula Husky mix could fit right in. He will love having energetic little ones to romp within the yard and he is a social mix, so he will get along well with other dogs when well trained and socialized. We should note here that the Catahoula Husky mix is going to be a heavily shedding dog, so he may not be the ideal dog for those with allergies. This is also perhaps one of the largest of the Catahoula mix dogs we have on our list. The Catahoula Akita dog should be well trained and socialized at an early age to help reduce the chances of behavioral issues, and owners should note that these dogs may be naturally wary of strangers. This is a hybrid you may not find easily, but if you do you are sure to fall head over heels. Like the Catahoula, the Corgi is a herding dog at heart. Though smaller, the Corgi is an energetic and intelligent purebred that has won the hearts of many, including the queen of England herself! When crossed with the Catahoula, the Catahoula Corgi mix is an intelligent, affectionate, curious, and work-oriented companion. Deciding whether or not one of the Catahoula Mix dogs on our list is right for you can be tricky. Picking the right dog for you can be tricky, regardless of if it is a Catahoula mix or any other kind of purebred, mutt, or hybrid. For the most part, a Catahoula mix dog is an energetic, affectionate dog that can do well with active families. If you are planning on looking for a Catahoula mix dog, we recommend looking into trusted shelters or reaching out to reputable breeders who have a history of breeding this unique mix. We hope this has been a helpful guide on the Catahoula mix! Did you find the dog of your dreams on our list above? Tell us which Catahoula mix stole your heart in the comment section below. Jen Jones Jen Jones is a professional dog trainer and behavior specialist with more than 25 years of experience. Well known for her intuitive and compassionate approach, Jen adopts scientifically-proven, reward-based methods, encouraging positive reinforcement over punishment. Jen specializes in obedience training, behavior modification, and puppy socialization. Her innovative methods, particularly in addressing anxiety and aggression issues, have been widely recognized. They are decently inexpensive, especially compared to other working dogs of a similar size such as English Shepherds. They are a newer breed that was bred in the USA for hunting purposes. Many hunters still breed and use them, which is why they are less expensive than other breeds. Of course, you also have to consider the average cost of expenses. Table of Contents How much is a Catahoula Leopard dog? The price of these dogs will depend primarily on where you get them from. Breeders are the most expensive option, but there is a reason for this. They put a lot of time and money into their puppies, which typically means that they are more expensive. Rescues and animal shelters commonly have these dogs, though adults are more common than puppies. Rescuing a dog is less expensive than adopting one and typically only costs a few hundred dollars. Sometimes, you may notice that these dogs are available on Craigslist or a similar marketplace. While they may be less expensive from these sources, there is typically a reason for this. Getting a puppy from Craigslist Craigslist is often full of puppy listings. In some areas, Catahoula Leopard Dog litters are often advertised at a low price. However, these dogs are often cheap for a reason. Most of these litters are from puppy mills or backyard breeders. Therefore, they may be prone to both health and behavioral problems. Puppy mills are known for producing as many puppies as possible as cheaply as possible. This leads to lower levels of well-being for the dogs. Many of these dogs are separated from their mother when they are too young, leading to behavioral and health problems. Getting a puppy from a rescue These dogs are prevalent where hunting is popular. They are commonly lost during hunting, which means that many may show up at your local animal shelter. While dogs from rescues have an unknown passed, they get proper vet care while at the rescue. If they have any underlying condition, they are often treated at the animal shelter. Therefore, you can be reasonably sure that the dogs at the shelter are healthy — at least for now. Getting a puppy from a breeder Many breeders specialize in these canines. Some of them breed dogs for show, while others breed them for hunting. Either way, these puppies are usually more expensive because breeders put quite a bit of time into them. These puppies often get plenty of vet care and socialization. Therefore, they are more likely to adapt well to a new home, resulting in a more well-behaved puppy. Furthermore, they are usually less prone to health problems and have received some basic preventative care. This is extremely inexpensive compared to other breeds out there. Costs of health test Dogs from breeders are so much more expensive because their parents usually undergo health testing. This helps ensure that only the healthiest dogs are bred, which leads to healthier puppies. However, this can be pretty expensive. Usually, these dogs are tested for elbow and hip dysplasia at the very least. These conditions are a widespread problem among many dog breeds. This testing is done through x-rays so that it can be pretty expensive. Sedation may cost extra. Testing for hearing loss may be done on adult breeding pairs and puppies. This can be done at a very young age, so many breeders will test puppies before they put them out for adoption. Puppies will also need more medical care in the first year. This covers preventative care and similar issues, but not medical problems that your puppy may need to be treated for later. Some clinics will do it for much cheaper. However, these typically have waiting lists of some sort. While they only need one appointment, more things need to be done at this appointment. This also covers flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. While puppy food may be more expensive, the size of the Catahoula Leopard offsets this. Training costs Professional training is not required for most dogs of this breed. However, getting them into some group classes is recommended for socialization purposes. This typically covers a few group sessions. Dogs with better pedigrees are typically going to perform better in the show ring and while hunting. Therefore, they are more valuable. But breeders and hunters will typically pay more for them, which drives the price up. Some breeders charge extra for dogs with perfect coloring. Similar to Dalmatians , some types of spotting are more desirable than others in this breed. Any medical care the dog has received will also raise the price. If the puppies have had their hearing tested, they will usually cost more. However, this may save you money down the line. Most breeders give their puppies their first shots, which will also lower your first-year vet bills. If the dog has received any training, then it will likely be more expensive. While all puppies receive some sort of socialization, extensive socialization may lead to the puppy costing more. Price considerations Be sure that you can budget for your dog before adopting them. These dogs may not be very expensive to adopt upfront. However, they will cost you a few thousand a years to take care of. They may cost even more if they have a health problem. Some health problems can cost thousands of dollars to treat effectively. The bottom line These dogs are very inexpensive to adopt. They are commonly at animal shelters and rescues, where they are often very inexpensive. Even adopting a puppy from a breeder is inexpensive. This is mostly because they are so common, which means that their supply and demand ratio is in a good place for buyers. It typically pushes the prices down. However, these dogs are just as expensive to take care of like other dogs. They will cost you thousands of dollars a year after accounting for all the necessary expenses. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.
Both are also made from TPE material which is a safe, eco-friendly alternative to a rubber ball. Plus, they come in the perfect size for a small dog. Interactive toys like this are also great if your little Frenchie suffers from separation anxiety. The treat dispenser on each is designed to challenge your Frenchie with his own little dog puzzle toy. This interactive dog puzzle toy is great for bored pups who need a rewarding brain teaser or to encourage slower eating habits in fast eaters. Cleaning is simple and fast. The treat spot located in the center of these dog chew toys is great for stuffing with treats to max out the fun of interactive or solo play. These toys are durable and long-lasting. The Squawkers durable rubber dog toys offer different, funny chicken characters with the irresistible squeakers your Frenchie loves. These are particularly fun for a Frenchie puppy. The high-quality materials are all safe and natural, and the paint used to decorate them is lead-free so you can have a safe, fun experience. The Invincible Snakes are another great toy for your Frenchie. Made from natural latex rubber and lead-free paint these hilarious dog toys are perfect for playing fetch and other games with your dog! The irresistible squawking squeaker will keep them engaged and mentally stimulated as they chomp and play. These two options fit the bill perfectly. It will undoubtedly become one of his favorite toys. The blend of natural wood fiber and safe synthetic materials is a safe alternative to real wood. Real wood can splinter which can lead to oral and intestinal damage, particularly in aggressive chewers. These multi-sensory durable dog toys provide various textures and sounds including 3 internal squeakers. Its K9 Tuff Guard technology includes reinforced non-rip seams, durable fused backing, and double-stitched seams that all add up to longevity and durability in this tug toy. This is a fetch toy, tug of war toy, and chew toy all in one. It has handles for you to grab easily, and you can play toss and catch with it too. It can also work well as a teething toy for your Frenchie puppy. Made with naturally shed antler material, Deerhorn has a natural taste and smell your dog will love. Made in the U. With a variety of scents like the smell of real wood or a Mesquite BBQ, Dogwood combines real wood with synthetic strength, making it a tough and durable chew toy. Constructed with soft plush, corduroy, and twisted rope material for a cozy yet tough dog toy that can last through multiple play sessions. Stuffed with crinkle paper and three squeakers that will keep your pup engaged for hours! That anatomy puts them at a higher risk for certain health problems that can affect their ability to play. Here are some of the common problems this particular dog breed has: Upper Respiratory Infections — URT Because of that squashed face, French bulldogs are at higher risk for upper respiratory infections. In fact, most Frenchies will have at least one upper respiratory infection in their lifetime, particularly if they spend time around other dogs. The symptoms of this are similar to a cold and include coughing, nasal congestion, and lethargy. If you think your Frenchie has a URT, you want to see your vet right away. That short snout and squashed face can cause trouble breathing, problems sleeping, and heat intolerance. For Frenchies, this problem typically occurs when they are exercising, particularly in warmer temperatures. You might consider limiting his playtime to prevent this from happening. Mobility Problems for French Bulldogs There are a number of health problems French bulldogs can develop. These include conditions like hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and spinal disc problems. Intervertebral disc disease IVDD is one example that can actually result in paralysis. These conditions are something to be aware of as you play with your Frenchie best friend. French Bulldog Toys: Final Thoughts French bulldogs are one of the cutest and smartest small dogs around. They love to play and have plenty of energy so get ready to move. Interactive toys that challenge their mind, chew toys, tug toys, kong toys, and squeaky toys are all great choices for your Frenchie. Also, watch out for upper respiratory infections that can slow them down. So, why do Frenchies need toys in the first place? So, what are some of the biggest reasons that toys are important for French Bulldogs? Toys Provide Mental Stimulation Frenchies are smart and curious, and they need to exercise their brains regularly. Entertaining dog toys, especially puzzles, are a great way to prevent boredom, depression, and destructive habits, as well as encourage them to learn problem-solving skills. Toys allow them to exercise their natural chewing instincts, saving them from pent-up energy and anxiety. Mentally and physically engaging toys are the best way to prevent this, allowing them to relieve any pent-up stress and energy. Aside from your standard dog toys, it also helps to have a few toys that allow you and your pup to play together. These play sessions will help you and your dog to grow closer while also getting in some physical activity. You should try to get in at least minutes of exercise or active play every day, but go for a bit more if you have the time. This time can include anything from walks to playing tug-of-war as long as your pup is getting up and getting moving. We think your pup will love each of these toys, so feel free to try them out! BarkBox delivers new toys and treats every month, so with a customized bundle, your pup will never be bored again! All you have to do is hide the extra toys in their cubbies and let your Frenchie start searching! Squeakers in each toy will keep your pup engaged, encouraging them to solve the puzzle. March 25, 0 If you are a new owner of a French Bulldog, it is normal and good to ask: What kind of toys do French bulldogs like? Or, what are French bulldogs' favorite toys? With French bulldogs taking over America, many owners have shared what toys make their Frenchies happy, including squeaky toys, stuffed toys, chew toys, Kong toys, tug toys and interactive toys that challenge their minds. French bulldogs are very playful and love all kinds of toys. But according to many Frenchie owners, their dogs like some toys more than others. That said, here are the top Frenchie-approved toys on the market today! Best Interactive Toys for French Bulldogs 1. By encouraging healthy play, which is important for French Bulldogs' physical and mental development, this treat-dispensing puzzle toy helps solve behavioral issues such as digging and barking, boredom, separation anxiety, chewing and teething. The KONG Classic, which is the most recommended by vets and trainers worldwide, is even more fun when filled with kibble. Key Features and Specification:. They also come in a variety of shapes and flavors. Some of the best French Bulldog toys can be made right in your home with materials you likely already have on hand. This is one of the easiest toys you can make for your dog with an old T-Shirt and scissors. Simply cut two long, thin strips of the shirt and layer them on top of each other. Plastic Bottle Toy Being environmentally-friendly is always a plus and you can do just this by reusing a plastic bottle and old fabric. Wrap and tie old fabric around an empty plastic bottle and watch your dog be thrilled to tug and toss their new toy. The sound of the plastic bottle can provide extra interest and stimulation. Pupsicles Your dog will be entertained and full of joy with a tasty frozen treat. Mix 1 part pureed apples with 1 part non-fat, sugar-free Greek yogurt. Tie the end of a long sock, soak it in water, then freeze. Your Frenchie will enjoy this unique-feeling chew toy. Enjoy Playtime! You and your French Bulldog will never get bored and will definitely live and happy, healthy life with all of these funtastic toys! Check out this full guide for all the tips and tricks to playing with your French Bulldog. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. Pin35 35 Shares Frenchies never grow up. They want to play all of the time. But keeping a Frenchie entertained all day can be hard work. Before I go on though, let me be clear. All the favorite toy suggestions here are based on toys we have found Claude the Frenchie likes to play with — on this page you can see photos of him and his friends actually using some of them. In this list of the best French Bulldog toys on the market you will see favorites to suit puppies that are chewing and teething, plus some stuffed toys. I am going to start off with the ones that Claude has loved the most, that have kept him entertained the longest. What are the best toys for French bulldogs? You will need toys that last, period. Almost all the toys I recommend below pass that destruction test. With some of these, Frenchies will play with by themselves, others with us when we want to get involved. I believe these are the best toys for French Bulldogs, puppies and adults alike. It comes with a handle on it so you can throw it, squeaks, and is tough enough to withstand all the punishment a teething or adult Frenchie can dish out. Our cat even joins in with this game. These laser pen toys see Amazon prices will also need some batteries too. Claude loves chasing the laser across the floor, and even does it with our cat at the same time. Frenchie Chew Toy A Nylabone will become one of the best investments you make and is the perfect French Bulldog teething toy. French bulldog chew toys are essential no matter what age your Frenchie is. They start to teeth around 12 weeks of age, with the teething phase typically lasting up to 24 weeks. During this phase they will want to chew everything; furniture, shoes, you name it. Frenchie chew toys can offer a distraction and suitable alternative to having your prized possessions chewed up and destroyed. You can find a similar one to the photo on Amazon. Kong Chew Toy Dogs the world over love to play with Kong toys. You can put treats in them to set a mental challenge for your hungry Frenchie. The Kong helps to keep your Frenchie busy. It will not only take cunning and flexibility to get the nice tasting secrets out but will also take them a while too. These are one of the most popular dog toys in the world as you can see from the thousands of Amazon reviews. Frenchies love to play tug of war. It lets them get rid of any excess energy and possible aggression — and it keeps the owner fit too! This one is brilliant though and despite the pulling, tugging, and tearing at it, has never degraded, frayed, or ripped apart. They are designed for aggressive chewers. You can find a similar tug of war toy on Amazon. There are loads of different styles to choose from. Stuffed Toy Plush toys can prove to be a comfort to a puppy and give them something else to chew on. French Bulldogs love stuffed toys too. The best ones for Frenchies will come with a squeaky noise when bitten. It comes a pack of 12 so your dog should never get bored again. Rope Ball Toy Claude likes the rope toy, his friend was perfectly happy with a flowerpot! A great toy for keeping your Frenchie entertained outdoors would be a rope ball. You can throw it, dangle it, or kick it. Have a look at the Amazon prices. Squeaky Bone Toy This is Claude and his puppy friend having a chew toy battle. Frenchie love toys that squeak. As you can see from my photo, Claude and his buddies will often playfight to see who can win the bone battle. You can buy this toy in red, yellow, or green depending on your style. As with the other Frenchie toys, this is also available on Amazon. Frenchie puppies need to be constantly entertained and will want to play for every single second they are awake. Below you can see some of the toys best suited to a French Bulldog puppy. This puppy toy also comes with a squeaky button inside of it so expect your puppy to be cuddling into it one minute and trying to destroy it the next. See the Orangutan on Amazon. Chuckit Throwing Balls Frenchie puppies love to chase balls but need something a little bit smaller than the Bomber Ball I recommended earlier. You can buy a pack of 2 on Amazon. Best French Bulldog chew toys Frenchies of all ages like and need to chew, but even more so during the teething phase. You can even get French Bulldog chew toys that go in the freezer first, to help soothe sore gums. You can either fill it with snacks or pop it in the freezer before play time. See the latest prices on Amazon. Dog Toothbrush Stick Dental hygiene is a must so why not combine a favorite toy with functionality? Go take a look at the Amazon prices. Best French Bulldog stuffed toys .Hide-a-Squirrel Toy Claude loves chasing squirrels. I was surprised at how highly rated it was, but it certainly seems to work as you can see from the Amazon reviews. But sometimes the simplest toys are the best for a French Bulldog. Hours of fun could be had with this, and once your dog is tired, he can cuddle up to it. The people who already own this say it stands up to a lot of rough play. These mind-stimulating toys are how you keep a French bulldog entertained and mentally active. It has a small maze inside within which you can place small kibble biscuits. As your dog pushes the ball around, the treat will hopefully find its way through the maze. This sounds like absolute torture to me, but by all accounts, it can keep your dog entertained for hours — and importantly, keep their mind active. Go check it out on Amazon. Interactive Dog Puzzle Toy Another great idea here with this interactive puzzle that can help to teach your Frenchie how to learn sequential steps to get a reward. It has 6 different compartments that pull out to reveal a tasty treat. See what people are saying on the Amazon reviews for this awesome toy. Here are a few household items that Frenchies love to play with too. Claude loved playing with footballs when he was a puppy. He would go mad in our garden pushing it around at high speed with his nose and it kept him entertained for hours at a time. Part of the game was him trying to get the ball into his mouth. Once Claude got to about 10 months his jaw was a lot bigger and he was able to chew the football up — we were getting through a couple of football toys each week. Balloons The simple things in life are sometimes the best as this balloon game shows. Sometimes the simplest things can provide the best entertainment for a Frenchie. He will try to get the balloon, and actually end up heading it back. The top section are all ones that we know for sure are the kind of toys French Bulldogs like to play with. But sometimes, anything will work as a toy. How do you keep a French bulldog entertained? We walk Claude twice a day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, but also play with him and his favorite toys as much as we can in the house. How to keep Frenchies safe when playing? Frenchies will be very boisterous, and puppies will never know when to stop. Because of this, in hot weather particularly, they can overheat easily. I wrote a guide on how to keep Frenchies cool when playing. How do French Bulldogs like to play? French Bulldogs have lots of different ways they like to play aside from with their favorite toys. They like to playfight, the like to play rough, and they love to play fetch. You can see a video below which shows some great examples of Claude playing. For more information on how Frenchie play, read this guide. We release videos every week so please subscribe. How to stop chewing and destructive behavior Toys are one of the best ways you can help to prevent chewing. Without toys, mental stimulation, and exercise you might have a lot of destructive behavior to deal with. If you do want to stop that, read this guide to stopping chewing. How to stop a Frenchie biting when playing Once you have a collection of toys for your Frenchie you should also play with them. They can play by themselves happily but love it most when they have a playmate to share the fun with. However, puppies in particular find it hard not to bite, and this can become problematic if not trained out of them at a young age. To find out how to stop biting, read these notes. Importance of toys for French Bulldogs: French Bulldogs are adorable and playful companions that bring joy to our lives. As responsible pet owners, it is crucial to understand the importance of providing them with suitable toys. They not only entertain our furry friends but also play a vital role in their overall well-being. Preventing boredom and destructive behavior French Bulldogs are intelligent creatures with a mischievous streak. Without adequate stimulation, they can become bored easily, leading to destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture or excessive barking. Toys serve as a great outlet for their energy and help prevent these undesirable habits. Interactive options, such as puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing balls, challenge their problem-solving skills while keeping them engaged. These stimulate their minds and provide a healthy outlet for their natural curiosity. Promoting physical exercise and mental stimulation Just like humans, French Bulldogs need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Engaging them in active playtime sessions with appropriate toys helps burn off excess energy, preventing obesity and related health issues. Tug ropes, plush squeaky toys, or balls encourage physical activity while promoting bonding between you and your Frenchie. Incorporating interactive games like hide-and-seek or fetch will not only keep them physically active but also mentally stimulated. Aiding in teething, dental care, and overall oral health French Bulldog puppies go through the teething phase just like any other breed. During this time, they experience discomfort due to emerging teeth. Providing them with suitable chew toys can alleviate this discomfort by redirecting their urge to chew onto something safe. Chewing on appropriate objects helps promote dental hygiene by reducing plaque buildup and massaging the gums. Look for specially designed dental chews that aid in cleaning teeth while providing entertainment. These typically involve hiding treats or small plush toys within compartments that your furry friend must figure out how to access. The process of finding the hidden treasure requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Hide-and-Seek: These puzzle toys have multiple compartments where you can hide treats or small toys. Your French Bulldog will have a blast sniffing out the hidden goodies and using their paws or nose to open each compartment. Treat Dispenser Balls: These balls have openings where you can place treats inside. As your Frenchie rolls the ball around, it dispenses treats intermittently, encouraging them to keep playing and figuring out how to get more. Slow Feeders: Slow feeder bowls or lick mats require your French Bulldog to work a bit harder for their food by making them eat more slowly. This not only aids digestion but also provides stimulation as they figure out how to access each kibble piece from the various compartments. As they move the pieces around, they are rewarded with tasty morsels, making mealtime more exciting and engaging. Elsa Enjoying Her Puzzle. Take the Quiz 1. Chew Toys Got a furry little chew-monster at home? Chew toys are the paw-fect solution for teething Frenchies. They come in various durable materials to withstand even the toughest nibblers. These toys will also help maintain dental health and provide hours of entertainment for your Frenchie. Say goodbye to furniture gnawing and hello to a satisfied pup! They fight over them. Plush toys are the ultimate snuggle buddies for your French Bulldog. Hiding Toys Hiding toys are the sneakiest fun your Frenchie will ever have. We have soooo many of these!! Hours of fun await your pup as they conquer these brain-busters! She was afraid of that at first but as soon as she got the idea she solves to open the puzzles quickly. In a day or two she was an expert. Tug-of-War Toys Tug-of-war toys offer a fantastic way to bond with your Frenchie while helping them release their energy and giving their muscles a good workout. Warning: Be prepared to lose sometimes, because their cuteness is just too persuasive! Treat-Dispensing Toys Treat-dispensing toys are like a surprise party for your Frenchie. They keep those curious noses and clever paws busy, rewarding them with yummy treats for their hard work. The dogs then go crazy trying to get it out of the hole. Kong Toys The legendary toy that stands the test of time! Hours of entertainment guaranteed! He brings it to bed most nights, he just loves playing with it. Squeaky Toys Squeaky toys are a favorite among Frenchies, adding an extra dose of excitement to playtime. Rubber Toys Rubber toys are the ultimate all-rounders. This rubber chicken dog toy will surely be a hit with your Frenchie! Crinkle Toys Pups just wanna have fun…and make noise! Crinkle toys provide sensory stimulation for your curious Frenchie, keeping them entertained with exciting textures and sounds. Balls The timeless joy of chasing and catching! Prepare for boundless energy and endless giggles! She plays soccer and carries it. Flirt Poles Flirt poles let you engage your pup in a playful chase, providing exercise and entertainment for both of you. Guaranteed full-body workout for your Frenchie and great entertainment for you! She loves chasing this thing. Laser Pointer Unleash the feline frenzy in your pup! Laser pointers are the magical wands of playtime. The elusive red dot is an endless source of fascination, giving your Frenchie a chance to engage their hunting skills. Doggie Pool A paddling pool is one of the best ways to keep your Frenchie cool in hot temperatures. Not only does it keep them refreshed, but it also provides a stimulating environment and hours of playtime for your baby. Perfect for those water-loving Frenchies who enjoy splashing around! Plastic Bottles Who knew recycling could be so much fun? Plastic bottles are the unsung heroes of DIY dog toys. Frenchies absolutely love it: their crinkly texture and exciting sounds are enough to make any pup go bananas! Just be sure to remove the cap and any small parts to keep playtime safe and enjoyable. We also got her a toy off Amazon that you insert a 20oz plastic bottle into that she loves. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article.
Check out our other picks for best quality and value wire dog crates. Wire dog crates are possibly the most used, the most commonly seen and generally speaking what people think of when you mention a dog crate. They come with a single door as standard, but some models have multiple doors side and roof for greater access. Advantages of Wire Crates: Very easy to keep clean. Allows the greatest airflow of all crate styles which is particularly nice in hotter climates. Many models fold flat for portability. Can come with divider panels for adjusting the crate size to suit a growing puppy. Most models have a slide out tray for ease of cleaning. Disadvantages of Wire Crates For some dogs, instead of comforting them being able to look around and see the family, the visibility can cause whining and stress. Some dogs are best covered over…but you can of course cover a wire crate. Can feel exposed, offering little shelter in colder climates. They may be collapsible for portability, but they can also be quite heavy! The noisiest of crates when dogs move around a lot. The easiest of crates to escape from for determined and intelligent dogs. Plastic Dog Crates Check out our picks of the best plastic travel crates. Plastic dog crates are the most often used for travel, particularly air travel. Advantages of Plastic Crates Lighter and hence more portable than wire, metal ones. Bottom of crate can sometimes be used as an open dog bed if the crate is no longer wanted. More sheltered, offering better insulation in colder climates Better for those that whine and cry if they can see activity and want to be a part of it. Less visibility better for easily distracted dogs and a greater feeling of security for a dog. More difficult than most wire crates for escape artists to get out of. Disadvantages of Plastic Crates Enclosed nature can stress some dogs who prefer visibility of their surroundings cure this with crate training! Harder to clean and therefore harder to keep fresh, and plastic can hold odors over time that become hard to eliminate. Cannot fold flat so need more storage space than wire crates. Reduced ventilation can cause overheating in places with a hot climate. Not very attractive, although people have different tastes. Way more practical for travelling types too, as can be folded flat and and weigh next to nothing, making them a highly portable option. Advantages of Soft-Sided Crates Extremely light and portable, most coming with a carry bag. Extremely easy to store when not being used and folded. Soft and flexible, they are more comfortable for the dog inside compared to most crates Great to use when out camping due to being extremely easy to put up and take down. Disadvantages of Soft-Sided Crates Not the most durable and long-lasting. Destructive dogs can literally claw and chew their way out, destroying the crate in the process. Some dogs can learn how to unzip and open the doors. Stylish Dog Crates Check out our list of of high quality, stylish, wooden furniture style crates. There are many styles of crate to suit those people who simply cannot stand the look of a wire or plastic one in their home, or are looking for something a little more stylish. There are crates made from rattan or a variety of finished wood crates available. Advantages of Wooden Crates Can more easily fit into the look of a home and its decor. Can double up as a shelf or end table to offer a usable surface. Huge number of styles available. Disadvantages of Wooden Crates Not good for destructive dogs who can really damage wooden crates. Not good for the house training process as any accidents will leave stains, possibly hard to remove odors and be hard to clean thoroughly. Expensive when compared to the others! In my opinion, until your dog is house trained and completely over their destructive chewing stage, the most practical crate is without doubt a collapsible wire type dog crate. You can see our pick of the best collapsible wire crates available by clicking here. Compared to other styles, a wire crate is by far the easiest to clean if there are any accidents, are highly durable and is the only one that cannot be damaged by the scratching and chewing of a destructive dog…and many Labradors love to scratch and chew! Recommended Crates By Us! With so many crates available to choose from, making the right choice is no easy task. These are the most popular crates with the highest feedback and most satisfied customers you can find. Quality and value proven by the feedback from many, many previous buyers: My Top Recommendation For US Readers: Midwest Life Stages Dog Crate This is — in my opinion — the best value for money crate available and with extremely good customer feedback to be found all over the web, many would agree. With a divider included free of charge, this single crate bought for a new puppy can be resized to provide increasing room and still fit them as an adult. This is one crate you should definitely shortlist and compare to any others you may be considering. They have a huge amount of extremely good customer feedback and receive high ratings from previous buyers everywhere they are for sale on the web. It would be extremely hard to better value in the UK for the money, so is definitely one to consider! But if you have a puppy, buy a crate for the size of adult dog they will grow to become and use a divider to reduce the size of this larger crate to suit them. For Labrador Retrievers this will be a 36 or inch crate. A stainless steel wire crate is the most practical and best value choice for a number of reasons as detailed above. But for transporting in a car or by air, a plastic crate would be the best choice. If you can afford to, I would suggest a permanent metal wire one for the home and a plastic one for travel. For those that would like to preserve an overall look to their house there are many stylish finished wood crates available and I think these can really look good in some houses. More information: This was part 4 in an 8-part series that details everything you need to know about the use of a crate and crate training your puppy. The information applies equally well to dogs of all breeds and not just Labradors. The Entire series is linked to here:. From potty training to behavioral training , a new dog owner has a ton of responsibilities—sometimes more than they can keep up with. Crate training benefits both you and your dog in significant ways. There are more dog crates for sale than you can count, and they come in all different shapes and sizes. Here are some of the top benefits of crate training your lab: Benefit 1. Dog Crates are Cozy and Relaxing Labs love their crate because they offer a safe place to rest, relax, and sleep. Image Source Some labs feel so attached to their crates, they may choose to eat their food inside or halfway in and out. For you, this can also reduce the stress of dealing with anxious dogs. Benefit 2. So here is one of the best training tips: crate your lab puppies to help them become house trained. A crate can help a puppy remain within a smaller area. Benefit 3. Essentially, having labs feel comfortable in their crate gives you options when it comes to transportation, house training, calming a stressed dog, and so much more. Buy an Adult Crate and Section It Off Crate size is really important because adult labs need to be able to get into the crate and turn around. There should be enough space for them to do this, but no more. This is also why a divider can give labs the right fit and adapt to their growth. Besides these tips, all you need to figure out is the size of your lab. Your lab might be taller when sitting upright than he is standing on all fours, so have your dog sit on its behind and look up towards you. Four Types of the Best Dog Crates In addition to different dog crate sizes, you can choose different builds that might suit your lab depending on their age and rambunctious nature. Image Source Type 1. Wire Crate Wire dog crates are the most popular type of dog crate and their construction makes them quite durable. The wire design allows for air to circulate around your pet, which can help cut down on odors. They also allow for handy slide-bolt latches that let you quickly open and close the crate while keeping it secured. Wire dog crates are best for a puppy that is extremely active. The wire construction allows your dog to look out of the crate and see what is going on around him. This is best for dogs that like to be able to see what is going on. Type 2. Plastic Crate The main advantage of plastic dog crates is the fact that they are lighter than metal wire ones. This makes them very portable and easy to move around. You can move them from one part of the house to another depending on where you want the dog to sleep. Plastic crates are often made of high-quality polyurethane, which makes them easy to clean and sanitize. This usually means buying plastic products with a carry handle. Many plastic dog crates have a divider panel, which can be taken out to enlarge the crate and create more room for a growing pup or adult dog. One of the advantages of using plastic dog crates is that they can be used for several different purposes. For example, the bottom of the crate can be used as an open dog bed if the crate is no longer wanted. Type 3. Type 4. Wooden Dog Crate Wooden crates are a great way to get the functionality of a metal crate, but with the luxury appeal of nice wooden furniture. Of course, this is also a much more eco-friendly material than metal. Wood is porous and absorbs urine which means that if your dog has an accident while in the crate, the pee will soak into the wood and leave a stain. You also need to factor in the amount of space in your home and how well you can travel with your crate. Each type of crate comes with its pros and cons. Buying the right size crate is only one of many steps in responsible labrador ownership , so make sure to check out our other training tips for raising a labrador puppy to give your new best friend a long, healthy, content, and happy life. Share on. Measure from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail. From these measurements, you can determine whether your pup will be able to lie down and stretch out fully in his crate. You need to be sure that your pup has enough room to sit and stand comfortably in his crate. Add two to four extra inches to your final figures to find the ideal crate length and height. Instead, buy a kennel that will fit an adult-size Labrador. He will probably make a bed at one end and use the other end as his toilet. An adult purebred Labrador will need a crate that is a maximum of 42 inches long. Most modern dog crates are fitted with two doors. Metal crates tend to be the most popular material. They fold flat for easy transportation and storage. The crate has a single door and comes in inch, inch, inch and inch sizes to accommodate the largest of Labs. The crate comes with a divider included, has a sturdy plastic tray, roller feet to protect wooden floors and also has a carrying handle. The door of the crate has two heavy-duty slide bolt latches to keep the door securely fastened with your dog safe inside. This crate comes in a range of sizes up to 42 inches. It is designed to accommodate dogs up to 70 pounds, making this a perfect dog crate size for a Labrador. This fabric dog crate is perfect for indoor and outdoor use. The collapsible crate can be set up in seconds. The crate is designed for indoor use only and doubles as an end or side table. The crate comes with a plastic tray that slides out for easy cleaning. The crate is suitable for large dogs up to 88 pounds and comes in brown or dark brown. The cover is made from high-quality, durable D mesh fabric, creating a strong, stylish, lightweight crate. The crate can be folded flat for easy transport in the free carrying bag. A convenient handle and hand-carry strap are also included. The crate comes with a cozy fleece lining included. There are three mesh doors for convenience and to allow breathability. Two accessory pockets are incorporated into the design. The whole thing, including the bedding material, is fully washable. If you wanted a Labrador crate to blend with your home, stylish wooden crates that look like smart pieces of furniture are also available. The robust, plastic crate comes in four funky pearlescent colors too. I can personally vouch for the superior quality of this kennel, as I have one myself. The other door is sited at the front of the crate. It fastens with a secure, simple-to-operate, squeeze-together mechanism that can be operated with just one hand. The kennel has ventilation openings on all sides. This US made crate is air travel approved and meets airline cargo specifications. Separate air travel kits are available if required. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Dogs love having a small den to sleep in, and once trained, will find comfort in tucking themselves away in a crate. But Labs come in many different shapes and sizes, and grow quickly as a pup. Benefits of Crating a Dog There are many benefits to using a crate for a new puppy or dog. Safe Sleep and Relaxation Space A crate offers a safe space for your dog to relax and rest in. This is the most important use of a crate and should be your first priority when crate training. House training your puppy will be significantly easier if they are confined to a small space. Puppies innately know not to eliminate in their sleeping area. Using this innate knowledge to your advantage can mean only a few days of accidents in the house. This avoids them chewing on furniture or getting into kitchen cupboards. Labs are an intelligent breed who love to chew. They will quickly work out how to open kitchen cupboards and help themselves to your food. This space is only safe if you have correctly and fully trained your Lab to be relaxed and calm in the crate. Ensure you read over our crate training guide before you attempt to secure your Lab inside the crate. Preparing for Future Travel If you plan on traveling with your dog in the future, then it is wise to crate train them while they are young. This will minimize the stress they feel when they are inside a crate. If they are familiar with sleeping in a crate, they will be able to relax. Dogs will be put into crates at the vets if they ever need surgery or an overnight stay. Again, you can minimize their stress by crate training from day one. Untrained or nervous dogs are a danger to themselves inside a crate. Crating can cause a welfare issue if the dog is stressed inside it. However, most puppies and dogs will get used to and even enjoy the crate once they are trained. What Size Crate for a Lab? As a general rule, your Lab should be able to stand up fully, turn around and lay outstretched in the crate, without too much spare room. Depending upon the individual Lab, they can vary in height and weigh between lbs. Males will be on the larger side and dogs from the showing line will be bigger than working Labs. Measuring Up Since your Lab needs enough room to move around, you can measure them to see exactly what size crate they need. Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail while they are standing. Add 4 inches to this measurement. Also, measure from the floor to the top of their head while sitting. Add 2 inches to this measurement. This will give them enough room to move around, but not too much room to do themselves any harm. It is easy to set up and comes with roller feet to protect your flooring. The plastic tub style base will contain any accidents and is easily washable. Depending on the size of your Lab, purchase a inch crate or inch crate with the divider. A divider is good for puppies, as you can make the crate space as big or as small as you need to. We recommend the extra-large size to contain an adult Labrador. This would not be suited to young Labs that still chew. What Size Car Crate for a Labrador? Your Lab will need the same sized car crate. They should be able to move around in the crate comfortably, without extra space. If you plan on having the crate in the trunk of your car, you will likely require an SUV or truck as crates take up a lot of space. Crates vs Playpens for Lab Puppies I always use a full sized adult crate with a divider for my puppies. It saves a lot of time and hassle. If you need to confine your puppy or dog to an area for extended periods of time, then it is best to use a playpen instead of a crate. A Lab will require a inch playpen to keep them contained. Playpens can be used indoors and outdoors to keep your dog contained. If you want an even larger contained space, purchase 2 or 3 playpens of the same brand and size and join them together. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Last Updated on September 28, by Marco C. What dog crate size for lab do you need — how big and what type should it be? They are an amazing tool for training and looking after your lab, as well as keeping it safe in new environments. So, exactly what dog crate size for lab should you get and how should you use it? The ideal size of crate for any dog will be one that allows the dog to sit and to lie down properly. So, first, we should figure out what size kennel for lab is right by measuring your dog. The exact height and weight will vary depending on the model. If your home is spacious enough, you may feel the urge to get your lab a giant crate so that the dog can have lots of extra space. Dogs are den animals and they love to sleep in small dens and holes in the wild. Such dens are naturally small and cozy — they are meant to protect your dog and to make it feel safe. So, the crate must be just large enough for your dog to fit comfortably but small enough for it to be cozy. Besides — most of the time the crate will be kept open so that the dog can go in and out freely. Instead, the smarter way to go about it is to buy a large crate straight away. Many models come with such separators or you can fashion one yourself. Labradors are large and powerful dogs that can have destructive tendencies when they get bored. Metal mesh kennels are the way to in almost every situation. As for its other characteristics, the most popular crate shape is the rectangular one. Two-door models are increasingly popular as they can open from either the short or long side and are quite convenient. The right size for a dog crate is similar to the right bed size for a human bedroom. It should be large enough for the canine to sleep and sit in it comfortably but not more than that. What Size Crate for Labrador? The inch crate is the ideal crate size for a full-grown adult Labrador. Most adult male Labs weigh between pounds. They need an extra-large crate of 42 inches x height, inches x width inches. An adult female Labrador weighing pounds needs a large dog crate of size 36 inches x height inches x width inches. Measure your Labrador to ensure that you get the perfect dog crate size. Take a measuring tape. Make your dog stand on all fours. Make your dog sit on his behind. Measuring the height while your Lab is seated is important because most dogs are taller while sitting than standing. You have the right size crate if the length and height are correct. Find the best Labrador dog crates here! But you must keep upgrading to a large dog crate while your Lab puppy grows. A simple money-saving tip, Buy a 42 inches extra large crate or 36 inches large crate. Some crates come with a divider. As a Labrador owner, you may think you are doing a favor by putting your dog in a crate too large for him. But NO. A crate is meant to be snuggly and cozy. Moreover, your new puppy will use one end as the bed and the other as the toilet if it has a lot of extra space. Four Common Types of Crates While shopping for a crate, there are four typical types you can choose from. Metal Wire Crates A Metal crate is durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean. These heavy-duty crates are easy to transport and store as they fold flat. Some wire dog crates come with a leak-proof plastic tray and roller feet to protect your wooden floors. Wire crate gives plenty of ventilation. Metal crates are the best Labrador crates for lab puppies. Wooden Crates A wooden crate looks stylish and blends with your furniture, but it is expensive compared to other crate types. Soft-Sided Crates Very easy to set up, fold down and carry. These crates are ideal for outdoor trips due to their lightweight nature. Plastic Crates A plastic crate is the type of dog crate ideal for traveling. Petmate is one of the plastic dog crates which meets airline cargo specifications. They can be used as an open dog bed if the crate is no longer required. Avoid getting tempted to choose a large or a smaller crate. A crate with a small space will make your Lab feel uncomfortable. Consider the weight while choosing a crate. An adult male Labrador usually weighs between pounds. A 42 inches crate can accommodate this weight. An adult female Labrador weighs pounds, and a 36 incheslong crate can accommodate this weight. If your Labrador weighs between pounds, a 30 incheslong crate is suitable. Area of the Home Where the Crate is Kept Measure the area where you plan to keep the crate to ensure it fits the space. Consider a multiple-door crate for flexibility. You can buy a collapsible crate for easier storage. Material of the Crate Ensure the material used is durable, long-lasting, and suits your purpose. Is a Crate Essential for a Labrador Retriever? Crates are not an absolute necessity for your Labrador. But veterinarians, dog trainers, and most Labrador parents recommend using a crate as it has many benefits. House training is easier when your puppy is confined to a small space. Crating helps them become house-trained quickly. Labrador puppies chew anything that lays on the floor until they are over a year old. Crating will keep them safe from being poisoned or choked. Crating reduces the likelihood of destructive behavior while you are home away and keeps your possessions safe. Aids during an emergency or standard veterinary care. Crate training at home makes crate training in a car much smoother. Downsides of Using a Dog Crate If your dog is kept in a crate for extended hours, it can cause separation anxiety, fearfulness, depression, cage rage, and other behavioral problems. Crating is dangerous if your dog is wearing a collar or leash. The collar or leash can get stuck on the crate bar and lead to strangulation. Add a warm blanket during winter. Leave room for ventilation. Leave your dog in a crate as little as you can. When crates are used as punishment, your dog will associate the crate with negativity leading to behavioral issues. Teach Your Dog to Enjoy the Crate. Throw some treats into the crate and allow your dog to go into the crate at his own pace. Your dog will associate the crate with positivity when you do this repeatedly. A collar or leash can get caught in the crate bar leading to a strangulation hazard. It depends on the size of the Lab. Some Labradors may need a crate of 48 inches due to their larger size. How Long to Crate a Labrador? The maximum length of time to leave a Labrador in a crate is hours, regardless of the age of the dog. For Lab puppies weeks old, they should not be left in a crate for more than 3 hours. Lab puppies weeks old can be left in a crate up to 4 hours. Should My Lab Sleep in a Crate? Measure your Labrador to get the perfect-sized crate. Dividers can be used if the crate is too large for your Labrador. While buying a crate, consider the size of your Lab, the weight of your Lab, the crate material, and the size of the space where you will put up the crate. Using a crate for your Labrador has its pros and cons. You can eliminate the cons by acting responsibly and not leaving your Lab in the crate for extended hours. With all that said, for a hassle-free purchasing experience, I recommend you check out our detailed guide on the best dog crate for Labs. Was this article helpful? More Information Introduction Labrador Retrievers consistently rank as the most popular dog breeds in the United States and it is not hard to see why. Sweet, friendly, and fun, Labs are the all-American dog, paws down! They are also very well-loved in Canada, the United Kingdom, in many other countries around the world. Due to their loving personalities and intelligence, they are frequently used as therapy dogs to help people who are diagnosed with autism or as a guide dog for the blind. They also can assist in detection and screen work with law enforcement agencies as well as making an excellent search and rescue dog. To round it out, they are also a favorite breed for waterfowl and sport hunting. Its expressive character, good temperament, friendliness, and intelligence makes Labradors one of the most popular family companions ever. Breed This breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in .They are classified in the Sporting Dog Group. They are high energy and are a medium-large breed in size. Labs are classified as retriever-gun dogs which is one of the three types retrievers, pointing breeds, and flushing spaniels. As the name implies, Retrievers.They are meticulously trained to do so without damage to the bird or animal. They are also bred to be obedient and eager to please. This trait that has been bred into this breed makes him coveted as a family member, best friend, hunting, and service dog. As far as the early heritage of the Labrador Retriever goes, their roots go back to the St. There were several events that led to the slow demise of this breed in Canada which was a policy for sheep protection in Newfoundland and a rabies quarantine in the United States. By the s, three noblemen collaborated together and created the breed we now know as the Labradors which was the official origination of the Labrador Retrievers we know today. Interestingly, some Labs today sport the markings of the St. Labs are often described as friendly, outgoing and active. Their lifespan is usually between 12 and 14 years. Appearance Labs have a dense weather-resistant coat that keeps him from getting cold when he gets in water during the wintertime which is a very feature for a waterdog to have. Because it is interwoven, his coat is conducive for swimming. It is short in length, straight but not wiry, and tends to be a little dry yet oily. White labs may range to even having a slight red tint to them. Silver Labs are not accepted by the AKC but they are in some other major dog organizations around the world. The hair on his head is clean cut with a broad back skull and a medium length muzzle. Jaws hang in a graceful manner and curves back just a bit. His eyebrows are slightly accentuated and his eye coloring is hazel or brown. His eyes are expressive and are lined in black, or should be. Lab ears are set just above his eyes and his ears hang close to his head. The tail of a Labrador is fairly broad yet quite strong which is useful to propel him when swimming. These dogs are bred for swimming right down to their toes. Their toes are webbed which makes them even faster in the water and also acts like a snowshoe of sorts, a big help to keep snow from painfully balling between their toes. Labradors are powerful - strongly physically built with an athletic look about them. Males usually weigh in around pounds and females run around .They are equal in distance from tail to withers and from the ground to withers. Specialized breeding has brought about two Lab bloodlines. Show dogs are heavier with bodies that are a little shorter and their tails and coats tend to be slightly thicker. They are also calmer in nature, as a rule. Working Labs from America are higher energy and rightly so for they are field dogs whereas versions from England are bred for their coloration and other characteristics for showing. Labs from America are a little taller and thinner with longer legs and lithe bodies, hence making them more agile. Their heads are narrower and their muzzles, longer. Both English Labradors and those from America are excellent with people although the calmer of the two may be more fit to be around young children. Their differences mostly lay in their physical appearance and in their energy levels for the most part. There is also controversy among breeders. Some classify them in their specializing field type, though not all as others adamantly do not agree with this classification. Despite the differences in the two varieties, Labs are easily recognizable, especially with their sweet faces and kind eyes. They are also prime candidates to be designer crossbreed dogs since they have such a good nature. Nutrition It is recommended to provide feed formulated to medium-sized breeds that is appropriate for the energy level of your Lab. Lab puppies are usually bounding with energy. Your vet may recommend several small meals per day initially. Labs can be sensitive to some foods so be sure to mention any itching, swelling, or vomiting. Your vet will most likely advise a good, high-quality food that will provide enough and other nutrients he needs as well. Labs can be little pigs. They burn off a lot of calories romping about and playing as pups and later, working or playing as adults, and they certainly have been known to become obese, especially when their daily exercise needs are not being met. Labs should boast a trim hour-glass shape. One more note is if your Lab has itchy, flaky skin, you may want to talk to his vet about the possibility of adding fish oil to his diet. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available. Grooming Labs typically only shed about twice a year, in the spring and fall. Some, however, shed the whole year round. Much of the rate and frequency of their shedding depends upon the climate where they live. Those who live in very warm areas tend to shed continually. Doing so will also help keep shedding to a minimum. An occasion bath is a must as well. Once a week or more is ideal. Use a doggie toothpaste and either a dog toothbrush or your finger. If you get a nice canine-friendly toothpaste flavor, this sweet dog will probably help you brush them. Labrador Retrievers have fast nail growth and as such need regular trims using a nail clipper or grinder. Overgrowth of nails can cause splitting and cracking. Their ears can build up wax and other matter. To avoid infection, it is recommended to regularly check and clean around the opening but not inside their ears. This can be done with a large ball of cotton wool moistened with veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner or warm, previously boiled water. Be sure to keep their ears dry as Labs are naturally prone to have ear issues. Exercise It is important for Labrador Retrievers to get a lot of exercise. Despite their sometimes laid-back nature, they require plenty of exercise to stay healthy. Remember, Labs were initially bred for the physically demanding and arduous task of retrieving for game hunters. Exercise helps their hearts and muscles stay strong and fit and keeps their minds alert too. Although it depends on the nature and age of your Lab, it is generally recommended to give adults between 45 minutes to 90 minutes of active exercise each day. If your dog still has a lot of energy left over, bump the routine up a bit. Some Labs are more naturally high strung than others. Examples include swimming, jogging, playing fetch and similar activities that provide more intensity than a light walking speed. For puppies approximately 5 minutes per month of age until fully grown is sufficient. For aging Labradors, it is important to monitor their health more closely for signs of sore joints and other health problems. Collapse during exercise is a real threat as is often caused by a medical condition that is not uncommon with Labs. Consult his vet immediately if such a thing happens. Regularly vet check-ups will help determine the appropriate levels of exercise. The lack of sufficient exercise can lead to disobedient behaviors, excessive barking, and other destructive behaviors. It can also lead to weight problems, hip and elbow damage, heart disease, higher blood pressure and a higher incidence of diabetes. This dog loves to hunt so hide-and-go-fetch games are awesome to play with him. He was bred to swim and it will give him both physical exercise and mental stimulation, fulfilling his purpose. Especially when he is young and inexperienced, keep a watchful eye on him in the water. He is such a swimmer, he very well may venture out across the lake or into the ocean. Brain games are also vital for Labs. They are very intelligent and need the challenge. Most models also come with a divider that allows puppies to grow into space. Labrador retrievers are very social active animals. A dog crate will help you keep your dog away from mischief when you are not around to monitor its activities. Click here to learn about the best dog crates for Labradors. Have some toys in the crate for it to chew on to prevent it from chewing on the crate. When you are around, play with it and encourage it to have fun. Be sure to keep an eye on it as they are known to play themselves to exhaustion. More Information Stature Adult male Labrador Retrievers stand between twenty-two and twenty-five inches and they weigh an average of sixty to eighty pounds. Female adults, on the other hand, weigh between fifty and seventy pounds, standing at a height of twenty to twenty-four inches at shoulder height. Personality Known as some of the sweetest breeds of dogs that the world has to offer, these dogs are very loveable and they aim to please. This nature coupled with their high levels of intelligence makes them quite easy to train. Training your Labrador retriever puppy is of the essence as they are filled with high amounts of energy which can be used in destructive behavior where your dog is not well trained. As a result of this energy, these dogs do well in surroundings filled with activity. Labradors make such good companion dogs, you might be tempted to think they were bred for that reason alone. Labs are very versatile and can fit into life on the farm with ease but can also be in small spaces as long as they have plenty of exercise because they are active dogs. Still, recalling the things for which this dog was bred for will help you make sure you give him the ultimate care and understanding. Hunting, fetching, and swimming is what makes Labs tick. They love to roam and need ample exercise. They are also used to problem-solving because that was a skill that was required. They thrive on learning new things and recalling the information they already have. Labs tend to be quite proud of themselves when it comes to using their intelligence. Another thing Labs treasure is pleasing those they love. This made them good hunter and retrievers and make them excellent companions, family dogs, and service dogs too. Labs are awesome with kids. The English, show-type dogs, with the larger heads and bushier tails, are somewhat favored as being great fits with small children. Both types of Labs usually do well with other household pets, even cats though they might try to give chase until trained differently. One tendency they often have, mainly as pups, is that they love to chew. They also do it when pent-up or when they are not getting their energy out. Labs also can be a little much when young as far as their activity level goes. They are considered to be medium-high in activity levels and some, especially the working variety from America, can teeter on the very active side. Labs seem to linger in their adolescence stage. They act like puppies for longer than most dogs. It is adorable, though some behaviors can be unwanted like them tearing up or chewing things. Many suffer from separation anxiety. This dog breed is best with a family where someone is home much of the time. During the hours that no one can be with him, crating may be the best solution. Health Compared to most breeds, these dogs are quite healthy and if you take good care of them, chances are that they will not develop most health conditions that other dogs suffer from. Examples of diseases that your Labrador Retriever could suffer from include but are not limited to cataracts, epilepsy, cold tail, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Getting your dog from a good breeder lessens the chances of such diseases if they are hereditary. Labs are generally healthy dogs with a fairly long lifespan. One of the most prevalent is Patellar Luxation, a condition that is much like a dislocated kneecap. The condition can be quite painful and can cause limping and inability to walk altogether. If your Lab is showing signs of having this problem, see his vet immediately. Canine Hip Dysplasia is another problem of the joint Labs are apt to get. It can be present at birth as a deformity of the joints or can come about through environmental issues like jumping too much. It can also develop through excessive wear and tear. If your dog is favoring one leg or is limping or unable to walk, have him checked by his vet. Shoulder Dysplasia is also a common condition among Labs. Again, have your dog checked if he exhibits signs of this condition. Having hot spots is not uncommon with Labs. Also known as a Pyotramatic or Moist Dermatitis, this condition is one that involves a certain area of skin that is inflamed and infected. It is moist and may ooze and is often reddish and painful. Allergies are on the list to watch for in this breed. He is prone to have skin irritations like allergies to soaps his bedding is washed in or to shampoo or soap used in his bath. He may also be sensitive to rolling or laying in grass. There are a multitude of skin allergies a Lab may have and they may also be allergic to food so be careful if you change up his diet in any way. Osteochondritis Dissecans OCD is caused by the cartridge grows abnormally in a dog. It can occur in any joint within his body where two bones come together and there is movement allowed between them. This condition can be due to an abnormality at birth or one that is developed or can be caused by damaged incurred. Diabetes is a medical woe that Labs can be afflicted by. If your dog is acting differently such as becoming tired and lethargic in between meals or is excessively thirsty, it would be a good idea to have him screened. Hypothyroidism is a very real problem seen in Labs. Gaining weight without eating more or exercising less is a sign as is becoming very lethargic and not wanting to exercise. See his vet at the first sign of this problem. A change in diet and possible medication may be recommended. Muscular Dystrophy in Labs is, sadly, a possibility. It is an inherited muscle disease that is progressive and is a non-inflammatory degenerative muscular issue where there is a deficiency in dystophyin which is a membrane protein of the muscle. It is most noted in newborn pups or in dogs that are not yet one year old. Another eye-related condition is called progressive retinal atrophy. Although the list of Lab-related medical issues to watch for may seem excessive and overwhelming, they do tend to be a healthy breed. But, if one of the conditions should arise, being aware and getting prompt help is always the best measure so he can get fixed up and back to being his awesome self again. Proper Care Recreation Labradors are generally very active and social animals. Their social nature makes them ideal for the indoors because if you leave them in the yard alone, they will get bored and they will find ways to keep busy that are destructive, such as digging up your flower beds. Though activity levels vary depending on the type of retriever you have, it is important to keep them active. Exercising your dog on a daily basis helps it manage its stress levels and improves on its overall well being. Take it for a walk or a jog for at least half an hour on a daily basis. This kind of exposure not only helps it release some of its energy but it will also expose it to different people and surroundings, making it more sociable. Do not take puppies out for walks until they are at least a year old. Instead of walks, get your puppy a few toys to keep it busy indoors. When it comes of age, you can go out on long walks. Labs are workaholics and as such, it is important that you put an end to their games to prevent them from exhausting all their energy during play. Labrador retrievers are like any other retrievers and they are happy to have something to carry around in their mouths. Get your dog a toy which it can carry around and chew on when they get bored. They chew a lot and having toys near them prevents situations where they might chew on your clothes or furniture. Having a dog crate enables you to contain your retriever when you are not around to monitor their chewing behaviors. Training Due to their sweet nature, you might think that it is not necessary to train them. Do not make that mistake. These dogs are full of energy and without the right training, that energy will be put into negative uses. They are easy to train and have been known to excel in obedience contests. To start off the obedience training, you can enroll your puppy in a kindergarten where it will be taught how to interact with other animals. You can opt to train your dog on your own and as you do this, use methods that use positive reinforcement for work well done as opposed to punishing your dog for getting a command wrong. In this way, your dog will learn faster and the two of you will get to bond during the process. Have an identification tag on your retriever as they are known to take off in the event when they sense something exciting nearby, such as food. This will help you find your dog easily. Labrador Retrievers are one of the easiest breeds to train. They are smart, eager to please, and are naturally inclined to listen and obey for that stems back to their breeding. Not only were they taught to fetch a fallen fowl or small animal but to bring it back without damaging the bird or animal. Potty training should be fairly easy with a Lab puppy but getting his attention is the trick. Lab pups are busy, busy, busy. It may take a few tries and some patience but he will no doubt master it in due time. Socializing at an early age is a must. This breed is a lover and usually takes quite well to humans but there are exceptions, mostly with those who were never socially trained. Even friendly Labs -can be a nuisance if not properly trained. They need to be taught not to jump up on people and not to wear their welcome out by being pests. Expose him to various animals and different kind of people. Basic obedience will be a key training. Learning when enough is enough during playtime, when to sit, how to behave, etc. He already has the ability, you as his alpha pack leader must bring it out though just as his hunting owners did in the days of old. Labs on a leash can be a little hairy. Positive reinforcement is always in order for Labs. He aims to please so just letting him gently know he missed the mark is sufficient correction. By plenty of praise and a few treats now and then, Labradors will be doing all they can to achieve all you have laid out for them.Advance training is definitely on the agenda if you have a Lab that you want to help reach his full potential in life. Dogs sports, agility training, and even service training are all areas he excels in when challenged. If you are not a natural born trainer or do have the time, patience, or desire to learn to advance your training skills, you might do well to consider hiring a trainer for him. Cleanliness Bathing your lab depends on how clean your dog is. For dogs that prefer to stay indoors, a bath every two months should do the trick. However, if your dog loves to play in the mud, it goes without saying that the baths will be more frequent. When bathing your dog, be on the lookout for sore ears and eyes, a change in the coloring of the fur and any other symptoms that may be indicative of sickness. Labrador Retrievers shed a lot of fur and you should brush it daily to prevent it from shedding all over the house. The more nutritious the food you give your dog, the less amount of food it will need to get full. Measure out the amount of food to give your dog and feed it twice a day. When feeding a puppy, you should consider foods with low-calorie content. This prevents your puppy from growing at a rate that could be damaging to its bones. Labradors love to eat and you will catch them trying to get food from garbage. Ensure that you do not leave food lying about as they will eat it. They grow obese very fast if they are allowed to eat at will and this can bring about some serious health complications. Is a Lab Right for Me? Who could pass up the precious smile of a fuzzy little Lab? But, is a Labrador Retriever a good match for you and your family? They are for many people but.Labs can be high strung, especially those from America, working dog, variety. They can be a handful. They are certainly trainable but.If so and if you are getting a Lab puppy, you might want to put them away. One of the few naughty habits this breed has is excessive chewing. Of course, you will train him NOT to chew or to chew only his toys and treat bones, but.Exercise is a must for this kind of dog. He was brought into existence for the purpose of retrieving as well as a hunting dog. He simply must have his exercise and his mental stimulation as well. Are you willing to train this dog? A good dog is a terrible thing to waste. He is so highly trainable, it would be a sin just to stick him in the backyard. If you are willing to train him or have him trained, however, the stars are the limit. Do you have children? If so, yay! This dog loves children and has been proven to be great with them. If you have considered all the things having a Labrador Retriever entails and are still sure this breed is good for you, congratulations. There are few dogs that can even come close in comparison for being all-around awesome dogs. Post category: Dog Kennel Tips When fully grown, Labrador retrievers are large dogs that need a generously proportioned kennel. The average adult female Labrador retriever usually weighs between 55 and 71 pounds. This size of dog needs a large crate at least 36 inches long, 23 to 24 inches wide, and 25 to 27 inches high. An adult male Labrador retriever usually weighs between 64 and 79 pounds. A dog of this weight class needs an extra-large kennel that is about 42 inches long, 28 inches wide, and 30 to 31 inches high. You can use a smaller crate to safely house a puppy. For instance, when the dog is between 35 and 40 pounds, a kennel about 24 to 30 inches long is ideal. Actually, putting a young puppy into a kennel that is too large for him or her may make the animal feel unsafe. Direct Animal offers multiple sizes and types of kennels for your convenience It can be tricky to figure out the needs of the different dogs under your care. Fortunately, Direct Animal makes it easy and affordable to customize your professional kennel configurations. If you operate a doggy daycare facility, luxury boarding company, or other veterinary-related business, you can turn to the experts at Direct Animal to provide guidance on selecting appropriately sized kennels. Our durable, competitively priced products are designed to protect the health and safety of animals, while allowing for convenience and ease of cleaning for the workers. Made from durable stainless steel and Starlite, our raised kennels , double-stack kennels, and extreme kennels are built to last for the life of your practice. Call us today to request more information about your ideal kennel configurations. You Might Also Like.
The puppies are picked up at 8 weeks old and go to their forever family to be trained and live with you for life. Once puppies are weaned the female is then returned to their Guardian family. We feel this will allow for the best care of the girls as they will be one on one with their forever families right from the get go instead of being replaced once they are retired from breeding. A Free puppy adopted through our breeder program is just that, a free lab retriever. In addition, there is compensation for travel to us to return her along with us paying for spaying after she has had her litters. On occasion we run into someone objecting to this program and they recommend that people visit their local shelter to adopt a puppy for free. These puppies need rehoming and we would want to get them into a home as much as the next person. The need for breeding however is still there because not all free shelter dogs have the intelligence to act as a service dog. Something as simple as a shelter dog not being screened for a genetic heart or eye issue may result in a lot of wasted training. If a dog lives for 10 to 12 years, and the shelter dog is 5 years old , training takes a year at least for suitable candidates, then the service can only work until about 8 to 10 years old until they begin to slow down. So, instead of the dog helping their handler for 8 or 9 years, all that training is put in to the dog for just a couple years. Normally this is a cost most people will not incur for such a short time. Read more on this here. You must live within an hour and a half or so or be willing to make the drive to participate in this program. People from Essex county and Windsor, Chatham Kent, Sarnia, London and Elgin county are the best candidates to partner with us and adopt a puppy for free, but living in one of those locations is not mandatory. If you are interested in our free puppy adoption program please specify so when applying as outlined on our contact us page and we will interview you for more information. Space in this program is very limited but also very rewarding as you will be helping us place a Lab puppy into the hands of a veteran or first responder to help them with their daily duties. Ownership is retained by Lucky Labs until the dog is finished breeding even though she will live with her guardian family. Around the age of three-four the mother is retired from breeding and we will pay to have the ownership transferred along with paying an agreed upon amount for the dog to be spayed. We make the first pick of a litter choosing the smartest female to mate in the future. Sometimes there may be two puppies that are equally intelligent, if so you can pick from the two. Either way you get the pick of the litter. You take your puppy home, administer veterinarian care as you would normally getting your Lab vaccinations at the proper times. You keep us informed of vaccinations and if your female comes into heat. Once she is old enough to breed we facilitate that. She is home with you for most of the year only being away to mate with our male for a few days, and to have her puppies. After the first mating we will evaluate the quality of the puppies she made. If they do not meet or are not above our standards to be trained as a service dog we may decide to spay her and sign her over to you. We may also try her with a different male if we feel the characteristics of the different male might make the puppies of a higher quality. In short, if her puppies are exceptional she may have up to 4 litters so we are able to donate the highest quality puppies available to our veterans and first responders. If her puppies are not we may instruct you to spay her and cover the cost. If you feel you can provide an excellent home for one of our best girl puppies, and you would like to contribute to our veterans, police officers, nurses, fire fighters and medics while caring for one of the best breeds of dogs going, then please apply below. People looking for a puppy to adopt can get the highest quality Lab puppy available in Ontario. We appreciate your help and dedication to helping out. Think you would be an Amazing Guardian of one of our dogs? Born July 25th 3 females left!! They have had 3 sets of vaccines and deworming. They have been also been microchipped. These guys will.Very playful, good with kids looking for loving families. Born April 30 Have had their first shots and dewormer. Send me a message with any questions! Each pup has its first shots and are ready to go!! They are now 6 weeks old. Have had their vet visit and shots. These gorgeous pups may bring you just that! We have these 2 boys available We welcomed the sweetest puppies into our family on July 3rd. The puppies have.They will be ready to go September 1, Great family dogs, raised on an acreage and have been.They are very well handled and played with by the kids daily around other dogs.We are also able to keep them longer if needed. These labs, like their parents, will have outstanding temperaments and remarkable.Please Contact Dogs for rehoming Edmonton 2 Female dogs for rehoming. Both about 1. Great Pyrenees, Australian Shepherd. Great Pyrenees, Lab Wonderful with kids and other dogs. Cats unknown. This is Buddy. He was born March .He has had 3 sets of.These adorable pups are ready to go to their new homes, there are 3 black and 1 chocolate available, contact us ASAP to inquire: email.These adorable pups are ready to go to their new homes, there are only 2 left contact us ASAP! To inquire about these puppies, contact us at: email.Unfortunately our older male has started to become agressive towards this sweet boy. Browse other categories in Pets in Edmonton.
The amount that they howl depends on the individual dog. Likewise, you can teach them to start as well. So why do German Shepherds howl so much? There are a few reasons why they are getting in touch with their inner wolf. Take a quick glance at some of the most common causes of howling to figure out what has brought on this vocal performance. Howling is a Part of Who They Are Every dog on the planet is descended from wolves, and we all know that wolves how. Making noise is something that comes naturally to them. Image Credit: nori jaafer, Pixabay 2. German Shepherd Boredom Dogs bark and cry, so why do we become so concerned when they start to howl? The German Shepherd breed is usually extremely active. Howling from boredom could also be combined with other naughty behavior like chewing on things. Wolves also do this in the wild for their pack mates to help them find their way back into their territory. Signaling a Warning As herding dogs, this breed made lots of noise to scare off predators and criminals that came onto their land. Demanding Attention Is there a better way to get your attention than making a bunch of noise? If you respond to howling, the dog quickly learns to get your attention this way. This is a behavior that is normally picked up when they are small puppies. Howling from pain is usually easy to distinguish between howling from happiness. Dogs in pain will howl because they need our assistance. Image Credit: GoranH, Pixabay 8. German Shepherd Happiness Some dogs howl just because they are happy. Take comfort in knowing your pup is expressing their joy in such a vocal way. Sirens sound very similar to a dog howling, and your German Shepherd is simply replying to the outside noise. It may not sound similar to you, but dogs are capable of picking up much higher frequencies than we are. German Shepherds are usually on guard at this time, and if they are howling, it is probably because they are trying to signal that something is going on outside. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to stop this behavior. Instead of scolding them, ignore them completely and remain persistent. Doing so lets them know that remaining quiet is the best way to get affection. Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock 2. Spend More Time with Them If your dog is demanding attention, it might help to be more genuine about your one-on-one time. Go outside and spend an hour playing with them. Give them lots of pats, hugs, and kisses. Counterconditioning Counterconditioning is a practice that tricks your dog into changing the way that they feel while they behave a certain way. For example, dogs that howl whenever someone walks by the house can be counter conditioned by giving them a treat as soon as they spot a person and before they start howling. The dog starts to associate a person walking by with a good feeling, which then makes them less likely to howl. Some breeds are more likely to howl than others. If it truly bothers you, you might think about getting a dog that is less likely to make a lot of noise. However, if you already have a noisy dog, there are ways that you can train them to stop. Some believed on superstitions about howling of dogs and others are so worried why they howl. But German Shepherd howling can be explained by understanding its causes and nature. You can also learn how to stop their howling properly. This article will give you a background about the German Shepherd howling behavior. This ancestral connection is one of the common reasons why do German Shepherds howl. This implies therefore, that German Shepherd howling is not at all negative because it is just a part of its hereditary traits. Emotional Reason Dogs like German Shepherds have emotional feelings. Like humans, they can also express some emotional needs. Since German Shepherd Dogs are known to be energetic and loyal, they have the tendency to feel bored and anxious. These emotions are actually expressed when they are howling. Boredom German Shepherd Dogs are trained to be active dogs. Exercises and regular activities are one their basic needs. Lack of these things can result to their boredom. When they get bored, German Shepherd howling can be expected. Separation Anxiety Another reason why do German Shepherds howl is separation anxiety. Once they are left, German Shepherds may express their anxiousness through howling. This howl signifies that they are somehow hoping for the return of their owner and seeking attention. Physical Reason Like human beings who are crying when get hurt, German Shepherd can express their painful feelings through howling when they have some physical illness and injuries. Environmental and Communicational Reasons German Shepherd Dogs can react when some environmental noise occurs especially those sounds that are like sirens. Through howling, German Shepherd Dogs signals their presence in a certain place or gives warning to communicate that there is an approaching danger or to prevent intruders from entering a territory. Sirens are actually sounding with high pitch that can strongly attract German Shepherd Dogs. Since, German Shepherd Dogs are hereditarily related with wolves, it is natural for them like wolves to respond with sirens as a way of communication of their point of location as if they are telling it to other packs. What is amazing with German Shepherd Dog is that they have the advanced recognition of sounds because they have higher frequency of sound waves than humans. No doubt why German Shepherd Dogs could hear the sirens of ambulance in a distance before we can hear it approaching. German Shepherd Howling at Night Naturally, German Shepherd howling at night are doing such due to some various reasons. First, because they are not really used or comfortable in their crate. Secondly, they are not feeling well maybe because of hunger or thirst as well as illness or injuries. Lastly, they are seeking the attention of their owners when they are experiencing separation anxiety. You need to understand that German Shepherd Dogs needs attention and companionship. They can also howl at night in response to other howling dogs. German Shepherd Howling with Wolves Some of the German Shepherd owners were surprised when they witnessed their German Shepherd howling with wolves in the scene of the movie, Zootopia. This reaction will not surprise you if you are already knowledgeable about the causes of German Shepherd howling. Their howling might be a result of their natural instinct as an animal in wolf lineage so they will try to howl as if they are calling the attention of other packs of wolves. Consistent exposure with these commands along proper training procedures will help you control the howling of your German Shepherd Dog. You can also use counter-conditioning by replacing their usual reactions with noises or situation into the desired behavior. You can do it by replacing the howling respond from a noise by consistently rewarding a commanded howl rather than a noise-triggered howl. If you want to learn more about this topic, it will be specifically discussed in other future articles about training German Shepherd Dogs. Give them Attention and Activities As mentioned in the topic about the causes of German Shepherd howling, this kind of dog is prone to separation anxiety so if they felt so, howling is its primary reaction. It is therefore, advisable for owners who wants to stop them howling, basically, to give them attention. However, this attention must be given carefully by giving them right lesson such as rewarding good behavior rather than commending naughtiness so that they will not be spoiled. See also German Shepherd Facts You also need to check their condition when they are in crate if they are not feeling well or if they have sufficient food and water. It is also necessary for them to have lots of activities regularly. Remember that howling might be a result of their boredom so you need to solve it by providing exercises such as walking them outside, household tasks obedience and agility training. Medical Treatment Finally, is consulting a professional expert about dogs or preferably with the behavior of German Shepherd breeds. They can really help you to understand German Shepherd howling because they have scientific knowledge which our mere knowledge cannot easily comprehend. Breeders and owners should study the reasons why they howl so that they will know how to deal with this behavior properly. German Shepherd howling should not be understood with superstitions but rather with a more practical consideration and scientific approach. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Most people have heard a German Shepherd bark. But, not many know that this breed is also known for its long, wolf-like howl. All German Shepherds can howl. However, not all of them want to. This is entirely up to the dog and his personality. Some people love teaching their dogs to howl as they want to experience the sound. Most German Shepherd owners, however, just want them to stop. A German Shepherd howling sounds a lot like a wolf howling. This is just the primitive part of his brain expressing himself by doing something instinctive, such as howling. Northern breeds, such as Malamutes and Siberian Huskies, are also known howlers. The same goes for hound breeds, such as Dachshunds and Beagles. If your GSD is a howler, try thinking back to all the times he made this loud sound. You may notice some consistencies. Maybe, there was a police car siren outside, or you were watching some wildlife-related posts and video clips. It almost always comes down to these nine things: 1. Territory One of the reasons behind a German Shepherd howling is that he is trying to define his territory. This is yet another remnant from his wolf days. This is something that a wolf pack would do if they sense another wolf pack approaching them. Howling will let other animals know to stay away. In some dogs, this is also a defense mechanism. Communication Dogs produce all sorts of sounds to communicate with other canines. Howling is one of them. It is a way they let other animals know where they are. A wolf pack would howl to help their lost member find its way home. While chances are slim that your pet has lost a pack member, he might still be howling to reach others. Howling is usually a better method of communication than barking, as the sound can get delivered much faster than any other sound a GSD might produce. Why would they, when they can simply howl? If your GSD only howls when you are at work, then chances are he is experiencing separation anxiety. Separation anxiety causes dogs to develop some problematic behaviors. This includes digging, chewing on things, and excessive howling. He is just howling to let you know to return home. However, this behavior should be stopped. They are trying to communicate with you about something. This might be a certain physical need they want help with, such as hunger or thirst, but most of the time, they just want you to pay attention to them. This can be a double-edged sword. If you regularly give your pup attention after he has been howling for a while, he might stop howling as his need for attention will be satisfied. Some dogs, however, might understand this as getting what they want once they howl; therefore, this will only make them howl more. He Is Lonely Dogs are pack animals. This is especially true for German Shepherd dogs, as they are very close to their wolf relatives. If they are lonely, this can make them exhibit all sorts of behavior. Once again, howling is one of them. A dog that is left isolated in the back yard or in a crate might howl to let you know that he is feeling terrible. Chained or neglected dogs will also commonly howl. Many people who have witnessed a German Shepherd howling, for this reason, have stated the sound itself is much sadder than a regular dog howl. This is similar to babies crying when they are in discomfort. Look closely for signs of distress in your pup. If you suspect he is, take him to the vet immediately. The most common ones are police or fire truck sirens. Other sounds can trigger your pet as well. You may have noticed that some dogs howl back if you howl at them. This is a natural response, as they think you are trying to tell them something. Most of them will have a specific instrument they prefer. A crying baby can also make your German Shepherd howl as well as many other common sounds, such as car horns, a squeaky chair, or doorbells. Most of the sound triggers are high-pitched and ongoing. A dog will rarely react to short, sharp sounds. Also, not every dog will react to the same sounds, so figuring out what might trigger your dog in advance can be challenging. Excitement Not all common reasons behind a German Shepherd howling are bad or are a natural response to other sounds. Sometimes, a GSD might howl because he succeeded in something and he wants to let you know that you need to acknowledge this. Dogs see you as the pack leader and they want your approval and praise. Take a careful look at your pup when he is howling. Does he look excited? Hunting dogs, such as a GSD, might start to howl if they sense that prey is nearby, or when they have found the right trail. This is also a reason why Northern dog breeds howl. This is why Huskies howl so much. Maybe, he has located his favorite toy or he has climbed onto your favorite chair. Irritation A dog might also howl because something is irritating him. This is usually a sound, such as a certain musical instrument, an alarm clock, a microwave beeping, or kitchen pots falling on the floor. Your GSD is using howling as a way of expressing his annoyance. German Shepherd Puppy Howling If you heard your German Shepherd puppy howl for the first time, then chances are you were quite surprised. Young GSDs can howl for the same reasons as adult dogs howl. This is their way of communication. In fact, most will use whining and howling instead of barking until they are a few months old. Others might learn to howl when they are adults. A few might never howl at all. This is entirely up to the individual dog. In fact, this is the most common reason why many dogs howl. The reason behind this is pure science. Sirens are one of those high-pitched sounds that strongly attract this dog breed. German Shepherds are better at recognizing sounds, even if they are far away. This is because their brain can catch higher sound frequencies. This allows them to hear ambulance sirens from far away! Also, in nature, such sounds only exist when animals are communicating with each other. The first thing you should do is watch your pooch and determine the reason behind the howling. Then, with just a bit of proper dog training, you should tackle this problem. This can only be helpful short-term. Tell him to leave the room as coldly as you can, and point your finger to where he should go. Close the door and wait quietly until the howling stops. Once he has been quiet for several minutes, allow him to come back. Give him a treat or cuddle with him. This includes howling. Spend a lot of time with your German Shepherd whenever you can. Give him lots of love and cuddles. Sometimes, the reason behind a German Shepherd howling is that they want to spend more time with you, and they have every right to feel this way. If you give them plenty of attention throughout the day, you might notice that the howling has stopped after a while. My German Shepherd rarely howls. How do I know this? She never ever howls when we are in the same room. She only howls when she is trying to communicate with me from far away, so a howl or a bark is really her only option. Separation anxiety German Shepherds are known to be very attached to their humans, and some can even have separation anxiety. If you think your GSD may have this issue check out my full article of German Shepherd separation anxiety. Boredom Another reason your German Shepherd may be howling is from being bored. Preventing you from leaving A common reason German Shepherds howl is to prevent you from leaving the house. Dogs quickly learn our routine, so if they know you always put them in the crate or a certain room before leaving the house, you may find they howl once placed in that location. If the howling is too incessant, it could be a sign of separation anxiety as discussed above. In response to another external sound Another time I have noticed my German Shepherd howling, is when there is another dog barking or howling outside. Before dogs were domesticated, they used howling in the wild to communicate with one another. Accordingly, when your dog hears another dog outside barking or howling, sometimes they will howl or bark in response. Dogs are also known to howl in response to sounds like sirens. Imitation Dogs not only respond in response to other dogs howling, but they will also respond to your noises. You may find that if you make a sound similar to a howling noise your dog will start to howl as well. Sometimes, dogs mimic the sounds they hear. Your GSD is in pain or injured Similar to above, dogs used howling in the wild to let their pack know they were injured and needed help. Excitement Just like dogs can whine because of excitement, they can also howl from excitement. Sometimes, your GSD will be so worked up with excitement that they need to release that energy. My dog is more prone to whining or barking when this happens, but some dogs also howl. To communicate Lastly, the main reason dogs howl is to communicate. All of the reasons above express howling as a way of communicating to others their wants or needs in a certain situation. Why does my German Shepherd howl at night? Nighttime is usually a calm time where everyone is in bed and all is quiet. Your German Shepherd may want attention at this time so they howl to gain your attention. They could also be bored or be presenting signs of separation anxiety especially if you are sleeping in another room from your GSD. Try giving your dog a short walk or having a fun play session before bed and see if they howl less or not at all. Chances are if you tire your dog out before bedtime the howling will decrease. Final Thoughts Hopefully this article gives you some insight on German Shepherd howling. German Shepherds or any dog can howl for a number of reasons. If you want to drill down as to why your German Shepherd is howling, look at the situations where your dog howls and then look to see if they fit into any one of the reasons listed above. Chances are if you can identify the reason why your dog is howling, you can determine that it is either nothing to worry about or find ways of reducing the howling if it is bothersome. Does your German Shepherd howl a lot? Let me know in the comments! Final thoughts Do German Shepherds howl? Every German Shepherd has the ability to howl, but not all of them do it. Whether they howl or not very much depends on the dog itself. Also, it is as possible to teach a GSD how to howl, as it is to teach them to stop howling. Why do German Shepherds howl? Finding out what is causing your German Shepherd to howl is the first stage of stopping it. First off, you should be aware of the various reasons why your German Shepherd is howling. Here are a few: 1. Defining its territory One reason why German Shepherds howl is to warn other dogs that they are moving into its territory. It is used to serve as an advanced warning, with the underlying threat of aggression if the Intruders continue on their course. GSD Ancestry Everyone is aware of wolves howling, and they do this to identify each other across the wilderness. Their howling could be something that has been retained in their genes as the species evolved. If your German Shepherd is not comfortable being left on its own, it may resort to howling. This type of howling is a sign of your dog calling you to come home. Howling because of separation anxiety may be accompanied by other signs of distress like pacing back and forth, or destroying household items. Howling to communicate with other dogs Communication with other dogs is the most common reason for your German Shepherd to howl. Dogs are pack animals and, as such, they are incredibly friendly. Anyone living in a neighbourhood with lots of dogs will be familiar with the sound of one dog answering the howls of another, and this spreading throughout the whole community of dogs. Just as we sometimes cry due to pain, so too do dogs. Your dog howling unusually could be a sign that it is some sort of distress, particularly if the howling is accompanied by uncharacteristic behaviour. In such a situation, you should consult your vet. As a breed, the German Shepherd is an incredibly active dog that needs plenty of stimulation. If it fails to get stimulated enough, your German Shepherd might howl simply to relieve its boredom. How to make my german shepherd howl On the other hand, maybe your GSD does not howl, and you want to teach it. The first thing you should determine is what type of sounds your dog responds to best. Typical sounds that get a reaction from a dog are alarms, sirens, or the howls of other dogs. Showing your German Shepherd a video of dogs howling could be an excellent technique to teach similar behaviour. Another method is to use a high-pitched whistle. It is all down to trial and error, as every dog is different. Here are 5 ways you can make your dog howl: Howling or singing yourself so your dog follows. Playing high-pitched instruments such as harmonicas. Whistling to your dog Playing recordings of alarms or sirens. Watching videos of other dogs howling. Once you discovered the best method to get a howling response, you can then reinforce that method with more of the same. You can also promote behaviour by rewarding your dog with treats and plenty of attention when they respond well. But, be careful to understand the reasons why they are howling, so you do not miss some potentially harmful cause. Their howling can be for pleasure, and it can also be the result of pain or discomfort. As its owner and carer, it is your responsibility to make sure that you know which one of these it is. Dogs and wolves are closely related and share many of the same characteristics. Howling is one of the things they have in common. If he howls in response to the presence of other dogs, he could well be trying to warn them to stay away from his space. This is a typical response of a wolf pack if they become aware of another pack encroaching on their territory. Some dogs do this as a defense mechanism. Communication Your German Shepherd may also use howling as a way of communicating with others as a way to let them know where she is. Wolves do this to bring a lost pack member home. Your dog may not have a lost pack member, but, according to CertaPet , might still howl to reach out to others. When dogs want to communicate, a howl is a better choice because the sound carries much farther than does any other sound he might make. This includes barks, growls , and whines. Adult wolves know this instinctively and do not bark. Instead, they howl to communicate among themselves. Separation Anxiety If you leave your pet for any length of time, say, to go to work, she may howl almost continuously once you are gone. This is her way of her communicating with you, the missing member of her pack, to get you to return home. Dogs who howl in your absence due to separation anxiety often have other problem behaviors as well, such as chewing and digging. Cesar Millan also suggests that your anxious dog may pace or even relieve himself in your house until you return. This type of howling can be stopped, but it takes a lot of time and effort. Looking for Attention Some dogs howl to get some attention from their owners. They may be trying to communicate a physical need, such as hunger or thirst, but frequently it is just to get your attention. The PetHelpful website suggests that this is a natural way for your dog to reach out to you. If your dog is resorting to howling because of a need for attention, try responding positively to that need. Instead of scolding him for making noise, find a way to spend some extra time with him to give him the attention he craves. Do it regularly and you may find that his howling decreases. Anxiety at Being Isolated Similar to your dog howling if he is seeking attention from you, an isolated dog, too, may howl to get someone to relieve his loneliness. Dogs are pack animals, so they normally live with others. A dog that is left alone in your home or backyard may resort to howling to let you know that the situation is terrible for him. The Veterinary Network video on reasons dogs howls suggests that this is not uncommon behavior if a dog is left chained in the yard or is otherwise neglected or ignored. The video also points out that this type of howling is as sad as you might think upon hearing it. Sick or Injured If your German Shepherd is howling because he is ill, or because he has been hurt, he should be taken to the vet immediately. When your dog howls, look closely for signs that he is in serious distress. He may be standing or lying awkwardly, or he may be hunched over or otherwise look unnatural. His howling is a cue for you to take a closer look, and get him to a vet immediately if you think he is in pain. Noise Triggers You may have noticed that your German Shepherd howls in response to various noise triggers. Sirens are one common trigger, but your dog may howl in response to other sounds as well. Other things can set him off as well. Again, a very natural response. A crying baby can stimulate your dog to howl, and a variety of other noises, including doorbells, car horns, or even a squeaky chair. Scientists think that dogs howl in response to certain types of noise, usually high-pitched and ongoing, rather than short, sharp sounds. Studying the causes is made even more difficult by the fact that not all dogs respond the same to various sounds. Excitement and Success Not all howls are due to bad things, nor are they necessarily the result of other sounds. Is he excited? Hunting dogs on the trail of something may start to howl when they find the right trail or sense that they are close to their prey. Sled dogs, too, are known to howl with the pure excitement of being hitched to a sled. Often the source of irritation is noise, such as a musical instrument played by a child, an alarm clock, or the persistent beeping of a microwave. Your German shepherd is expressing his feelings of annoyance if he howls at these things. Listen carefully for any sounds that might be causing him to howl. Look carefully at all of the triggers listed above. That myth seems to come from the fact that dogs and wolves tip their heads back when they howl, so it seems like their howling at the moon. According to scientific studies, they are not. You can read the following article if you want to know Why German Shepherds Cry , and would like understand this behavior.
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 French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. The early months are critical. The timing is vital. Some apply to all dogs, such as distemper and rabies. If your French Bulldog is in contact with other pups, you should get him a kennel cough vaccine. Likewise, if you take him on the trail with you, consider getting him a Lyme disease vaccine. They are starting to learn social skills and how they fit in the hierarchy with their littermates. They are becoming more independent and starting to show signs of their unique personalities that will define them as adults. Socialization is critical at this age as it will determine how well he gets along with other people and pets. Anything is fair game for this pup. You can transition him to a dog food for pups at this life stage. A French Bulldog reaches his adult size at 12 months. Unfortunately, this pup has a relatively high tendency to gain weight. That puts him at risk for many chronic health conditions that can complicate the ones associate with him being a brachycephalic breed. That brings a host of other health issues that advisable to avoid. While breeding also can have adverse effects, keeping your pet intact may offer a viable option. More likely, stunted growth is the outcome. Growing up takes a lot of energy. The danger of stunted growth also extends toward so-called teacup varieties. These pups are at a greater risk for health problems because of their size. We recommend buying puppies from reputable breeders who understand the particular needs of the French Bulldog. The best way to gauge the weight of your French Bulldog is to look down at his body shape from above him. He should have a well-defined waist. You should also be able to feel his ribs. The feeding guidelines on the back of the package or can are not written in stone. Base his feeding schedule on his current weight and state of health. An online calorie calculator can help you plan his mealtimes correctly. Conclusion The cuteness of the French Bulldog makes it easy to overfeed him. His cute face begs for a treat. It will reduce his risk of chronic health conditions and improve his quality of life. After all, you want him to hang around as long as possible as your BFF. See also:. Call Vic Kasser or Email! A French Bulldog is considered a small to medium breed dog depending on the Sire and Dam size and weight. One of the first questions anyone asks when considering purchasing a dog or puppy is how big will it get? This is a very relevant and important question considering your need to ensure your puppy is cared for appropriately in your home. Double Up: Generally, an adult dog will weigh about twice as much as he did when he was 4 months of age; giant breeds will double what they weighed at 5 months. Four Fold: The weight of your puppy at 8 weeks is a quarter of his adult weight. You can also obtain the weight of the sire father and dam mother of purebred puppies. Female puppies will weigh about what their dam weighs. Male puppies will weigh about what their sire weighs. Try Puppyweights. Factors Affecting Growth While much of a French Bulldog's growth is determined by genetic factors, early environmental factors also affect growth. Puppies who nurse frequently in the first weeks of life get better nutrition and are more likely to grow quickly. A healthy diet after your puppy is weaned can also affect her growth rate. Puppies who don't get enough food or who get low-quality food may end up smaller. Overfeeding can cause your dog to become obese. Medical conditions may also affect growth. French Bulldogs who are sick in the first few weeks of life tend to be smaller. Estimating Adult Size You can estimate your puppy's adult size by weighing her at eight weeks. Be sure to get the weight in ounces, since French Bulldogs don't grow very large and a few ounces can make a difference. Double this number and then double it again. For example, if your French Bulldog is 88 ounces at six weeks, double it to get ounces, then double the number again to get ounces. Divide this number by 16 to get your dog's weight in pounds. The ounce puppy will be about 22 pounds as an adult. Growth Rate On average, French Bulldogs tend to grow to their full size height at the withers and length from the base of their neck to their rear-end between the ages of 9 months to a year, and then they tend to "fill in" and bulk-up during their second year, fully maturing by the time they're around 2. During their growth stages, puppies can certainly grow to be heavy, and then they start getting leaner and more toned in their second year, so it's not unusual for a puppy to be heavier when they're under a year, and then drop a couple of pounds in their second year. Small-breed dogs, such as Chihuahuas, do not have room in their bodies for large litters, therefore they tend to produce only two to four puppies per pregnancy. Large-breed dogs, such as Great Danes, usually have larger litters, 10 to 12 puppies being common. Breed type also impacts the size of the newborns. Small-breed puppies are typically several inches smaller than large-breed puppies, regardless of the number of dogs in the litter. Small Puppies the Mother's Health Unusually small puppies are not a result of large litters. Instead, their size can usually be traced back to the health and nutrition of the mother dog before and during her pregnancy. Because the unborn puppies share the nutrition she takes in from her food, she needs an ample diet to properly nourish the puppies. Without sufficient food, the puppies will not reach appropriate size and may suffer health problems. According to veterinarian Kathleen Hefner, writing for the American Kennel Club, most puppies who die soon after birth were probably born from malnourished mothers. Litter Size Problems Even though litter size does not impact puppy size, large litters can cause problems for the mother dog and her new babies. If the mother's uterus attempts to carry more puppies than she can physically handle, her life and the puppies lives can be threatened. Also, large litters tend to produce more stillborn puppies and runts. With so many neonatal puppies vying for nutrition, those in the center of the womb often do not get sufficient nourishment, which can cause them to be born small or to die. Great Pyrenees breeder Catherine de la Cruz warns that large litters can trigger earlier-than-expected whelping, which can be a problem for the puppies unprepared human grandparents. Predicting Litter Size While accurately predicting the size of an expectant mom's litter is difficult, some other factors do contribute. Research shows older mother dogs have smaller litters than younger canine moms. Also, dogs who had their first litter at an older age will have smaller litters. The mother's weight can be a factor. Obese female dogs tend to have smaller litters than healthy-weight dogs. However, any pregnant mom can experience a large litter relative to normal within her breed. Dog litter sizes vary from one puppy to more than a dozen newborns. The recorded largest litter had .While litter size can impact many aspects of whelping and raising puppies, it does not actually impact the size of the individual puppies. The parents genes, the puppys breed, and the mother's health and nutrition determine the puppies size at birth. This is just a tool to be used along with observations of mom and dad weight, bone structure, previous puppy mature weights and more! However, we'll still link The file. Excellent nutrition is important in order to have a healthy and happy dog. There are many varieties of food out there; wet, dry, freeze dried, raw, or cooked. Regardless of what food you decide on, they do need to be on a high-quality and nutritionally balanced dog food. What are the signs of high-quality dog food? The food should contain lean meat-based protein sources such as chicken , turkey , pork and beef. Feeding Your French Bulldog at Different Life Stages Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress on adult dog food. As young puppies, they have a huge requirement for calories and high-quality ingredients to promote puppy growth. Puppies grow rapidly during the first six months of their life and they continue growing more after this period. Without proper nutrition, they might be stunted and underweight. Check out our other article to learn how to switch puppy to two meals per day! Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress to adult dog food. This food will provide the nutrients and calories required to maintain an adult weight. Very active dogs will need more calories while sedentary dogs will need less. Dogs that have been neutered will have slightly different nutritional requirements than other adult dogs. They generally need fewer calories to prevent weight gain which can happen in the months after neutering surgery. This can be achieved by feeding a diet with relatively low carbohydrates and high-quality lean protein. Senior dogs require highly digestible foods and a good source of omega fatty acids for potentially stiff joints. They might require varying levels of protein depending on their kidney function and body condition. Good quality nutrition will keep your dog at optimal body condition and health. Feeding stage-of-life specific recipes allows your dog to have the optimal nutrients for the life stage they are in. However, regardless of small differences, most dogs will loosely follow the growth chart below. Age of French Bulldog.
You will find that our warm, caring, family-style approach combined with seventeen years of professional English Labrador breeding experience result in excellence whether you are searching for a puppy for show, field or couch. Our English lab puppies enjoy the good life - surrounded by the best of God's creation and nurtured by a loving family. Our labradors revel in it and we hope that you will too! All of our puppies are carefully bred in a family environment for temperament, conformation and health. A comprehensive two year health guarantee, Puppy Aptitude Testing, vaccinations and dewormings, microchip, ongoing breeder support and AKC limited registration are included. For the 25th consecutive year, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular purebred dog in America, according to registration figures released by the American Kennel Club AKC. As a breeder, these statistics make me aware of my responsibility to provide the healthy, loving, beautiful labradors America is looking for. If responsible breeders don't take this responsibility seriously, future dog owners will search for their puppies in all the wrong places - most likely in pet stores that acquire their "stock" from inhumane puppy mills or in the yards of breeders who are solely interested in a profit having little knowledge or desire to better the breed. We currently have dams and sires and puppies that live with friends whom we call our T. These families chose to adopt dogs of superior health, temperament, and conformation and partner with us in our breeding program. Our T. They own the best picks of the litter and provide a nurturing environment for our dogs along with excellent nutrition and veterinarian care. If the females meet our breeding criteria, they are bred and come back to Creekside for the whelping and nurturing of the litter. Creekside gives each dam and puppy the very best in reproductive knowledge and care. In addition, because females are living apart from each other, the timing of their heat cycles is spread out meaning that our litters aren't being whelped simultaneously. Our males are used as studs as the need arises. We are proud of our T. The partnering between Creekside and loving families gives each Creekside lab the very best - no kennels, no runs, no overcrowding. We have found it an ideal way to combine expert breeding with the heart of a loving home. We hope that you will find it obvious that we are passionate about what we do. You are invited to enter our world. Best way to reach us is by text at .Hi-Point Kennels. The Labrador Retriever is also the most popular purebred dog in America for the 21st straight year. More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: The ten reasons that I am giving for children to have a dog are not listed in order of importance. All of us have different characteristics which we find more important than others. Every reason I list, however, is important to the childhood of your son or daughter. Dogs are great stress relievers for children. Imagine the effects on family life when the stress levels of parents go down. Children who have a dog feel more secure about home safety and going to sleep in the dark. One of the greatest stresses on children is night fears. To have this overcome, or lessened, is a great benefit to relieving stress. For children who are having any sort of difficulties at school, but especially thoughts and concerns over being liked or accepted, having a dog as a companion that loves you unconditionally is positive and brings with it a good feeling and alleviates symptoms of depression. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Did you know… Cleveland had its beginnings in when Moses Cleaveland, a surveyor, picked his townsite on the shore of Lake Erie. Only three members of his group agreed to stay since most were ill with Malaria. The Ohio and Erie Canal was completed in .The name of Cleaveland was shortened to Cleveland when the local newspaper, The Cleveland Gazette and Commercial Register, had to shorten its masthead by one letter to make it fit. During the Civil War times, Cleveland was an important part of the underground railroad. The port on Lake Erie was important for those slaves seeking to go into Canada for freedom. Many large industrialists settled into the area, such as: Jephtha Wade with the telegraph company which later became Western Union, John D. The distance from Cleveland to Washington DC is miles. The distance to the Ohio state capital is miles. Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client!
This pack includes a variety of toys specifically designed for puppies, to help promote healthy chewing habits, prevent destructive behaviours, promote self settling. Treats appropriate for the toy and great for training new behaviours Toy 2 - A lick mat designed for wet foods and treats, to encourage calm and settled behaviours, great for alone time training. Long lasting chew items - a must for puppies to encourage appropriate chewing and saving your table legs. Tug - Play is important for bonding with your puppy and keeping them active. Tug ropes are also a great diversion when your puppy attacks your shoe laces. Our trainers tips for using all the toys, including a bonus enrichment idea. As your puppy grows and develops, it's important to continue providing them with new and challenging toys to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Our Puppy Starter Pack is the perfect way to get started and set your puppy up for a happy and healthy life. Order yours today and watch your new puppy's tail wag with delight! Are you welcoming a puppy into your life or know someone who is? Our puppy box is the perfect gift, packed full of goodies sure to make any puppy tail wag. While the box will bring lots of fun, it has been curated to meet the behaviour needs of your puppy as they learn to live with you. Easy to customize for pets with allergies or special preferences Cons Can be difficult for pets with sensitive stomachs used to kibble For the pup with a discerning palate and the pet parent that is very particular about what they feed their pooch , Real Dog Box's fresh, air-dried treats will have your pup begging for more. Pick from a variety of box styles like treats only, chews only, a mix of the two and even a super chew box to customize the right fit for your furry friend. We spoke to two pet parents who love how fresh and healthy these treats are, that they have the opportunity to support a small business when they purchase the Real Dog Box and that each treat is a single ingredient and air-dried so you know exactly what's going into your pup's mouth. They also appreciate that the brand provides a lot of information on dog nutrition. This is particularly great for pets with allergies or special preferences. To create this guide, our experts searched through dozens of top-rated dog subscription boxes, considering their 5-star reviews, our knowledge of the brands as a whole and more. We look at each box's offerings, price, customer service, ease of personalization and more when choosing our favorite picks. We also considered boxes for different situations, from getting healthy pet food to providing cute toys for your furry friend. These picks are made up of our product pros' and reviewers' favorites and popular brands with rave reviews from real pet parents. What to consider when shopping for dog subscription boxes Dog size and breed: It's important to provide toys and treats that are the right size for your pet depending on their breed and size to ensure their safety. Toys and treats that are too small or big for your pet can be a choking hazard. Materials: If you've got a heavy chewer on your hands, plush toys just won't cut it. When it comes to picking the right subscription box consider what toys and treats your pet currently likes and what might be dangerous for them to play with or eat. Products: Are you in the market for pet treats, food, toys or something else? There's a subscription box for all your needs no matter what you're interested in. For decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been providing expert reviews and advice on everything a pet parent needs, including dog subscription boxes. As Senior Editor, Lizz Schumer covers everything from pets to entertainment and vetted a majority of the picks above. She brings years of journalism experience to the Institute, having reviewed products from cooling dog beds to dog carriers. A journalist for almost two decades, she is the author of Biography of a Body and Buffalo Steel. Prior to starting at GH in , she worked at BuzzFeed and People, covering a combination of product reviews and lifestyle content. Watch Next.
Pin on Pinterest Royal Canin knows what makes your Bulldog puppy magnificent is in the details. With their funny, squishy faces, wrinkled skin, and short, stocky bodies, Bulldog puppies bring a lot of love—and smells—to your home. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, bone and joint health, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Bulldog dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed Bulldog puppy. Whether you call yours an English Bulldog or British Bulldog, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Bulldog puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune systems and keeps their body growing strong. High-quality proteins and prebiotics help promote optimal stool quality. And for healthy growth, this calcium- and phosphorus-fortified diet helps your Bulldog pup develop strong bones and healthy joints. Once your Bulldog puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Bulldog Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Not satisfied? Then neither are we. Just contact us for more details. Ingredients Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, chicken fat, wheat gluten, oat groats, pork meal, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, pea fiber, fish oil, vegetable oil, sodium silico aluminate, potassium chloride, monocalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , salt, DL-methionine, choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Guaranteed Analysis. Ingredients Tailor-made food for Bulldog puppies from 2 to 12 months. Encourages a good balance of intestinal flora and ensures optimal digestive tolerance thanks to an exclusive combination of prebiotics and L. P proteins of very high digestibility. Natural Defences This formula helps support the Bulldog puppy? Bone and Joint Health Contributes to supporting the Bulldog puppy? This exclusive formula also helps maintain ideal weight. Exclusive Kibble: Special Brachycephalic Jaw A kibble exclusively designed to make it easier for the Bulldog puppy to pick up and to encourage him to chew. Most orders take working days to deliver and are dependent on where we are delivering to. Outlying areas can take longer than city centres. Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery. For more information about how delivery works please read our delivery terms and fees page. If you need to return a purchase you can do so by completing our Return Request Form. Got a question about this product? Just fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Alternatively you can call us on .Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.
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red haired golden retriever puppies for sale - Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. As long as they are socialised well as a puppy, Golden Retrievers can happily fit into family life. They are gentle but need to be treated with respect by all members of the family, including young children, as like any dog their patience will eventually run out. Common health problems in Golden Retrievers Like any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers may encounter some breed-related health problems throughout their lives. Often, Breed Clubs will also be able to provide advice on what tests your breed may need and where to get these done. Make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by these upsetting conditions. For Golden Retrievers, this is because they can have short legs in proportion to their body and a tendency to become overweight. Eye problems — screening tests are available and dogs should be screened on a yearly basis, especially if intended for breeding. Multifocal retinal dysplasia - abnormal development and growth of the back of the eye retina which can lead to blindness. Generalised progressive retinal atrophy GPRA — slowly leads to progressive blindness over months or years. Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy RPED, or central progressive retinal atrophy — a genetic problem which causes issues in the back of the eye retina and loss of vision. Glaucoma — high pressure within the eye causing pain and loss of vision. Ichthyosis — a skin disease that causes thickening of the footpads and makes other areas of skin rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. Caring for your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are usually real big softies and can make a great addition to a home. How much noise they make will be down to the individual dog. Training and socialisation Golden Retrievers thrive off training and are very intelligent dogs. They love nothing more than to be given tasks to do to keep them occupied and have fairly good problem-solving skills — for a dog! As long as your Retriever is properly socialised from a young age , they should be confident around new people and situations. Retrievers also like their chill out time but will be more than happy to show you plenty of affection on their own terms. Exercise Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need plenty of opportunities to exercise , play and get rid of excess energy. Your Golden Retriever will need a minimum of two hours of good exercise per day. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together. Because they are intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers can get bored easily so make sure you keep their brains active as well as their bodies. As their name suggests, retrieving is what they were bred for, so nearly all Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch! Grooming Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats and generally do shed a lot. They are not a dog to take on if you hate hoovering! Ideally, they should be brushed or combed three times a week at a minimum. Where necessary you can trim their coat with the right tools, but seek advice from a professional dog groomer or vet first. You may also find that your Retriever loves water including any and all muddy puddles and swimming. Make sure they stay safe around the water and if they get mucky, use a dog safe shampoo. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate Golden Retrievers and children If you have a young family then Golden Retrievers can be fantastic with children. If socialised properly from a young age, Retrievers can be quite calm and tolerant. Always supervise children and vulnerable adults with your Golden Retriever and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Golden Retrievers and other pets Well-socialised Golden Retrievers are very easy-going, which usually means they can be great around other dogs and pets, too. Any introductions should be done carefully and following the right advice for your other pet, too. Always supervise your dog with other pets, even if they have known them for a long time. Obesity can cause other health problems for your Golden Retriever, so keeping them in shape is extra important. Make sure to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any sneaky snacking. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. Use healthy treats in moderation instead. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap before exercising and after eating. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. If you want to buy a pedigree puppy, we recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they have to do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts As they were bred to fetch game, they have a naturally gentle grip, called a 'soft mouth', so they don't damage the birds they carry back in their mouths. Golden Retrievers have an amazing sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs in other parts of the world. They absolutely love water well, most of them do. Most Retrievers will take any opportunity to have a swim. Luckily, their coats are thick to keep out water and keep them warm. Golden Retrievers make really good assistance dogs and are often a top choice for training to be Guide Dogs for the Blind. Make sure you have the knowledge and dedication to give to these sweet natured dogs to keep them happy and the time and space to exercise them. While they make great family pets, make sure you are absolutely ready to take on the commitment of getting a dog first. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Golden Retriever. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Golden Retrievers are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if the Golden Retriever is the right pet for you? Golden Retrievers were first bred in the early s in Scotland as hunting dogs. Although they are still used for hunting, Goldens also excel at many other activities, including search and rescue jobs and guide work. They require ample exercise—swimming in particular is a great outlet for their endless energy, and most Goldens love it! Their beautiful coats require brushing and in some climates a summer trim may be in order. Goldens are intelligent, understanding, and eager to please their families. The Golden Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Golden. By knowing about health concerns specific to Golden Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Golden Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Golden Retrievers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Golden looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Golden is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Golden Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Golden Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Golden is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Golden Retrievers Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your Golden will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Golden Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Golden Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Golden Retrievers than other breeds. The sooner these tumors are surgically removed, the better. Unfortunately, mast cell tumors often look very similar to other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, many of which are not harmful. Therefore, all suspicious lumps should be tested and surgically removed as soon as possible. Many cancers are cured by surgical removal , so early detection is critical. Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Golden is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Golden Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Goldens. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. Glaucoma, an eye condition that affects Golden Retrievers and people too, is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea the clear front part of the eye , and redness in the whites of the eyes. Pain is rarely noticed by pet owners though it is frequently there and can be severe. People who have certain types of glaucoma often report it feels like being stabbed in the eye with an ice pick! Glaucoma is a medical emergency. Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your Golden is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. If untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Allergies, swimming, overgrowth of hair in the ear canals, and accumulation of earwax can all predispose your dog to ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Goldens are very often afflicted by allergies, which can cause itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. The earlier we diagnose and treat these ailments, the less discomfort and pain your pet will suffer. Be sure to call us if you notice him scratching or shaking his head, a foul odor from the ears, or if his ears seem painful to the touch. By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, we also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness. Most ear infections tend to recur until we work together to control the underlying cause. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Golden Retrievers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some Golden Retrievers inherit a heart condition known as aortic stenosis. This disease causes a partial obstruction to the blood flow leaving the heart, which means the heart must work harder to pump enough blood to the body. If the condition is severe, your dog may faint or seem to run out of energy during exercise. He may also have difficulty breathing, cough frequently, or have stunted growth. Golden Retrievers are also especially prone to a life-threatening heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in which the heart becomes so large, thin, and weak that it can no longer effectively pump blood to the body. As this problem advances, your pet may act weak or tired, faint or collapse, breathe in a labored way, or cough. If indicated, treatment includes medication and dietary supplementation. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Goldens have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Bleeding Disorders Your Golden Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test as we may not otherwise know whether your pet has hemophilia until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, and other behavioral changes. Treatment is usually as simple as replacement hormones given in the form of a pill. Taking Care of Your Golden Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Golden live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. Golden Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She excels at dog sports like flyball, agility, dock diving, and obedience events. She has a passion for water, and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Golden Retriever needs help. January 24, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? What does it take to be considered ideal for a family dog? How do you know if the Golden Retriever is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Golden Retrievers! Bred in the highlands of Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth in the mid to late s, Goldens are a cross between a Yellow Retriever and an extinct dog breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel. Lord Tweedmouth wanted the ideal gundog to accompany him during fowl hunting and be able to withstand the rugged terrain and rainy conditions. Aside from being able to retrieve fowl, Lord Tweedmouth wanted an even-tempered dog to have at home when not hunting. And so, the Golden Retriever was born. Later in the s, they soon became a popular breed amongst American families when President Gerald Ford had a Golden named Liberty as his family dog. Golden Retrievers, like their name states, are golden! Their luxurious coats come in a variety of light to dark shades, ranging from light like the white Golden Retriever or English Cream to dark golden colors, even close to chocolate. Their coats feature feathering down their backs, chest, belly, hindquarters, and tails. Goldens have soft expressions combined with floppy expressive ears that give them a puppy-like appearance even as adults. Another thing to note of the Golden Retriever is that those fluffy coats are actually what are known as double coats. A strong water repellant coat on top coupled with a dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This all means these pups can be heavy shedders! What are Golden Retrievers Personalities like? There is something to be said about being named a perfect family dog. The Golden Retriever breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and gentle. If brought into a home with children, your Golden Retriever puppy will be a great addition for help introducing your new Golden Retriever pup to your kids and how to play together, check out our blog! But being a great family dog doesn't mean they are easy! Goldens have lots of energy which can come out in more jumping and being more mouthy, especially as puppies. Check our training tips for raising a well-mannered Golden at the end of this blog! Two to three daily walks are a must, and throw in fun activities like hiking or going for a swim, your pup will stay golden! Golden Retrievers are eager to please type of breed. They generally have happy go lucky demeanors which lends itself to affection and friendliness, including toward strangers. If you wanted a pup that could eventually become a service dog, a Golden Retriever is a great choice and make for excellent working pups! As a high-energy breed, Golden Retrievers do best in a home that will provide them ample access to romp around. Homes with fenced in yards or access to a park or field on a daily basis where they can run and fetch to their hearts content are the best environment for Goldens! These pups, with consistent early socialization, can adapt and thrive to living in a home with other dogs, or pets, and children! They love to play and make great playmates. That being said, their social nature can lead to dependencies on their owners and family. Golden Retrievers may develop separation anxiety if left alone and not properly trained from an early age. Golden Retrievers may also contract heart disease called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS that with early diagnosis and treatment can allow for a regular life-span. When you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you are working with a reputable breeder that cares for the health quality of the dogs they breed. Take advantage of that natural drive and eagerness to please by setting foundations at home. Start your puppy a regular daily puppy schedule to create structured routines in the home. Include consistent feeding, nap, play and obedience training times throughout the day to help your Golden pup learn what to expect and build confidence at home. During their puppy training focus on their obedience commands to help your puppy learn to look to you for guidance, build their communication with you, and solidify a trusting relationship! Since Golden Retrievers love to work, positive reinforcement and food rewards will be valuable motivators to get your puppy focused and listening. In-person and online puppy training programs will walk you through how to teach the commands, exercises to help your puppy learn them, and troubleshoot when your puppy needs it! Teach Your Golden Retriever How to Greet New People and Dogs While their open friendly disposition will help your puppy make new friends where ever they go, make sure to teach your puppy the right way to do so! Some overly energetic and friendly pups can get excitable around new people and dogs. That can result in some unwanted whining, lunging, and jumping. When done correctly, socialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on those common over-excited behaviors when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer or join an online puppy training school to help set you up for the best success! Do Calming Obedience Exercises With all their high-energy and high-drive, teaching your Golden how to be calm in everyday scenarios will help tame that wild side! Great calming exercises include having your puppy learn to wait for their food bowl and in thresholds each time you enter or leave a space. This also extends to activities like fetch. Goldens are a natal for this! This can be done simply by having your pup drop the toy when they return and pausing for a few moments giving them a chance to settle before throwing it again for them to retrieve. Teach Them to Walk Nicely on Leash Many high-energy pups have a tendency to lunge toward exciting new things! Couple that with a social nature, and you may encounter that your Golden Retriever puppy will start to pull on leash. Focus on teaching them proper leash manners including how to walk in Heel position and how to pass other people and pups without lunging, jumping and excited whining, barking or nipping at them! That can greatly help possible bad encounters with strangers and other dogs while teaching them great habits! Did you recently bring home a Golden Retriever puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! My husband and I are bringing home our first puppy in September a goldendoodle and this was super helpful! Emily June 29, , am Thank you so much for this, Jen! I look forward to the post on favorite dog toys! We just got a puppy and, while its only been a week, we are definitely having some issues getting puppy to embrace his crate. He is doing really well with potty training, and has yet to have an accident in his crate, but soon after he enters his crate the howling begins. This way he associates it with a positive place. Also, leave treats in there. Some dogs do better with their crates covered so like drape a blanket over the sides so it feels more like a cave. You might also try placing a t-shirt or something that smells like you in there. Also, leave the door open all the time and praise him if he goes in on his own. Good luck! OH, what a difference! Long after they no longer needed their crates, we kept them and always left the door opened. They would go into them when they were tired, knowing they were in a safe place; their place. Friends always said to us that they would have a dog if it behaved like our dogs. Be consistent. Fun for all of you. I can definitely see how teaching while a puppy can make a huge difference. Looking forward to your next dog related posts :. Reply Link Megan June 29, , pm Ahh thank you for this post! My husband and I are looking into getting a pug puppy soon and these tips are so helpful. Looking forward to reading more posts on this, especially the crate training. Love the tips, we are still trying to stay the course with the UD group classes! Golden are the best! It has been such an eye-opening month with our new puppy. Our other dog is 8 so everything feels brand new. I actually wrote about it in my post for tomorrow, but a puppy is like a baby. My boyfriend and I are getting a golden pup in the fall and while I grew up with the breed I have never trained a pup on my own. We made the choice to get a puppy mostly to instil good habits and behaviour long term. So long story short, I would never put a puppy or young dog or any age in airplane cargo! Reply Link Megan June 30, , pm Good tips! Socializing him right away and crate training him were so key to having an awesome, well-adjusted dog! Reply Link Josi August 20, , pm Hello! Just wondering where you got your goldens? This really helped me figure out what to do when she gets here. Jen May 3, , pm YAY! Our 3rd Golden in about 33 years and know he has some big paws to fill Taegan was wonderful for 14 years. We are so excited!! I have a new English Cream Golden. I feel like I need to work for his affection. Great otherwise! Not super energetic. Bursts of energy followed up by lots of naps but never really interested in walks. First timer here. Your pup could really benefit from basic positive obedience! I would recommend seeking out an experienced trainer in your area to help you as your pup grows! Having a puppy in the home can be fantastic, but you also need to make sure that you can offer it the best as well. She has been really easy to house break. We are excited to bring her home. Thank you for the helpful tips. That is a good idea to make sure that we are committed to doing the work to train this dog. We do really want him to be well trained. Thanks for the tips! Thank you so much for this super informative post! Reply Link Jen January 22, , pm I always made sure she went before we got to the gym and walked her frequently. Meghan January 29, , am Thank you so much for the reply!! We kept each of our puppies on a leash in the house, never out of our sight except when they were in the crate for 4 months before we gradually gave them independence. We always messed with them and held them. They had accidents as you would expect until fully house trained at about 4 months, but never any destructive or aggressive behavior. We gave them plenty of tough chew toys. Also training classes. They were never nervous or skittish. They love to lay on us and never have had any trouble with grooming, food guarding, loud noises, children or other animals. Goldens are great dogs but like any dog, they can only know what you teach them. Great article!! Kathrinne May 5, , am Hi Jen, how old are your puppies when you let them go out? Jen May 5, , am What do you mean? Reply Link Carly September 8, , pm Thank you so much for your article! What would your input be? Do you think they would focus on each other more than their humans? Would 2 puppies be so much more difficult than 1? Any advice is greatly appreciated!! Love the name Zoey!! Any tips to Prevent that?? Reply Link Christine November 1, , am About to get golden 3. Learning all over about everything. Reply Link Jen November 1, , pm It is like starting over again but you will figure it out! Every pup is different but be patient and consistent! This is my first large dog breed so a little nervous. I read your post and you give wonderful tips that I will follow. Please let me know if it is safe to put a flea collar on the puppy. Thank you. Reply Link Jen January 29, , pm I would consult with your vet to see what they recommend for flea prevention and treatment. Also, about the scratching. It could be due to something else like an allergen outside. I have not had a dog in 3 years because I lost my last one in a painful way for me and I am afraid to get another one. I am now ready to get one and this page has helped me prepare for my new puppy. I am a 74 yr old male in pretty good shape no health issues, and retired so I should be around a while to look after a dog. My wife passed about four months ago so I guess I am looking to fill a void. I live in a single family home and have plenty of time to spare. Thanks Reply Link marion duffield April 14, , am I am picking my pup up in 2 weeks! This is the best AND most realistic article I have read about training…. My pup Tank will be 4 months when we get him. He is absolutely adorable. Have only seen photos. He lives with his breeder in Missouri and we live in Canada…. I am so excited for you!!!! Puppies are intense but so much fun. And wow, that is going to be an adventure! Reply Link Theresa April 30, , am Do you have suggestions about golden retriever puppy biting? We got ours at 7 weeks. She is now .How do we stop her from snapping and biting? She is smart and loving. The biting has been rough though. Can you help? But I love dogs soooo much. This info is everything to me. I love this post Soo much. Thanks a ton. You left puppy in car? Or what? Reply Link Madeline October 31, , pm I am picking up my 7 week old golden in 2 days! I am so excited! How did you go out taking him places before he had his full shots? I want to socialize him, and of course potty train him immediately, but obviously there are risks. Whats your take on this? So the whole crate training thing is not going so well. She hates it. Emily Camalo April 2, , pm Hi! Really appreciate you sharing all of this advice! It was super valuable. Reply Link Julie April 11, , am Loved your comments. I have a 9 week double doodle. I have crate trained since day 1 and she has been really good, day 1 upset for a couple of minutes. Day 2 no problem at all. Now just the occasional cry when I leave her but that is over with in a very short space of time. I also leave a low radio on for her. She uses the garden most of the time for toileting, but occasionally she will come into the house and do another wee. The problem I have at the moment is trying to stop her biting. I have tried the gentle command which she listens to some of the time. And I have tried standing and turning my back on her so she realises I am not playing when she bites, but she will then go for trousers or feet, which I try my best to ignore, or she will just go off and do something else like chew a mat or something which is a no no. Any ideas? Regards Reply Link Stephanie January 25, , am Really great info, thank you for your article. Our puppy arrives in 5 days and we have been preparing for months. Your advice is. Very helpful. Blessings to you. Read the full disclosure here. They rely on you for everything and their health and well-being is well and truly in your hands. In order for your Golden to live as long and as healthy and fit a life as possible, you need to first educate yourself on how to care for them properly and build this knowledge into actions and routines. A balanced and nutritious diet, regular exercise , grooming and regular veterinary health checks are all essential parts of maintaining good health and quality of life. All of these are under your control. By taking steps to do the best for your Goldens health and monitoring their well-being regularly, you can prevent illnesses happening, avoiding pain and discomfort for your Golden and vets bills and heartache for you. At first, being a caring and responsible owner can seem a daunting and herculean task, but breaking it down into little manageable routines really does make it easy. Health Care Routines For Your Golden Retriever You should keep a diary and set up daily, weekly, quarterly and yearly routines to make sure every need is met and your Golden is well looked after. Example routines would be: Daily: Provision of nutritious food and clean water, regular and sufficient exercise, general health check via bodily inspections. Weekly: Inspection of ears, eyes and oral health and hygiene. Comprehensive grooming and nail care. Quarterly: Bath your Golden. In the past, any more often than this was bad for their coat quality and skin. Scheduled visits to a veterinarian and canine dentist, perhaps alternating every 3 months so two visits to each per year. Yearly: Vaccination top-ups. Following is a brief discussion of areas you need to pay attention to in order to care for your Golden well. Particularly during their puppy years they can get themselves into all sorts of trouble around your home and garden so you have to undertake a certain amount of puppy-proofing your home : Fence off swimming pools or ponds in your yard as they will get in there but being so small they may not be able to swim well and could find it impossible to get out unaided. Research the plants and flowers you have in your home and garden as there are in excess of one hundred plants known to be toxic to dogs and Goldens love a good chew! Remove or make safe any sharp items in your home that your Golden may play with, rub against or walk over in their playing. Hide away any electrical cables because a dogs sharp teeth and electricity are a particularly dangerous combination. Goldens can learn to open simple storage units and household chemicals therein are extremely dangerous to your dog. For now, just pretend you are an inquisitive dog, tour your home and garden and imagine just how they could get themselves into trouble in any of the areas they have access to. Then take steps to make those areas safe. Diet, Nutrition and Water Intake Dogs in the wild would hunt and scavenge, eating a wide variety of different foods, taking care of their own diet and ensuring they get all the nutrients they need. Modern dogs no longer hunt and scavenge and instead rely on their owners to provide them everything they need. You need to research, find and provide a good scientifically formulated diet to match their very particular nutritional requirements. You should note that a puppy has different nutritional requirements to an active adult dog, that is again different to a very senior dog who may have somewhat slowed down. There are dog foods balanced to meet a dogs different needs for each stage of their lives and activity levels. One thing you really need to watch out for with Golden Retrievers is over-feeding. And a Golden will never say no, they just love to eat! So please be mindful of their food intake and monitor their weight. No dog should be overweight. It can lead to joint problems, which leads to mobility problems, as well as diseases of their internal organs which can really shorten their lives. As well as good food, your Golden needs access to a good, clean and fresh supply of water every day. Dehydration is a real problem, as is over-hydrating in some dogs. And any drastic changes in their intake usually signifies an underlying health problem and you should seek the advice of your vet. Exercise Golden Retrievers are a sporting breed, bred for working and hence considered a high energy breed. To keep them fit and healthy and to occupy their minds you will need to provide them with lots of opportunity for structured exercise. Notice I said structured exercise! This means you cannot simply let them out into your yard and hope they take care of exercise themselves. They will walk around a bit and mostly just spend their time begging to be let back in with you. You have to plan structured exercise such as running, playing fetch or swimming. You have to take them out for a minimum of 45 minutes of exercise per day on top of their normal walks, and preferably with a good 2 hour bout of longer exercise at least once per week. The five minute rule is that a puppy needs no more than 5 minutes structured exercise per day for every month they have been alive. So a 4 month old puppy needs just 20 minutes, a 5 month old puppy 25 minutes etc. So take it easy with a puppy. Training Just how important training is for your Goldens quality of life cannot be overstated. A dog that listens to and responds to just a few well-trained commands can be kept infinitely safer than an untrained dog. So you should provide your Golden with a decent firm yet soft bed and a nice comfortable lining for their crate if you use one. If you have a yard and your Golden will be expected to spend any length of time outside you should provide a form of shelter so they can keep off the cold wet floor in winter and get out of the sun in summer. There are many options for suitable kennels and many of them are reasonably priced. If you fail to keep up a regular schedule of brushing, their coats very quickly become knotted and then matted and these are all but impossible to remove without the help of a pair of scissors. Regular brushing also helps to keep your Goldens coat clean and removes dead hair. When it comes to bathing, Golden Retrievers have a double coat and natural oils that help waterproof them so bathing too often is actually bad for their coats…at least it always used to be. Just be sure if you do wish to bathe them often that you research the shampoo used and pick one suited to regular bathing for Goldens. Human shampoo will never do as it will strip their oils and is too acidic for their skin and will irritate them. And cheap dog shampoos will strip the oils too. You kinda get what you pay for. To keep their coat healthy and prevent irritation you need to remove all the soap. Note: Click here for a selection of the best dog brushes suitable for your golden Nail Care Depending on how often your golden walks on hard abrasive surfaces, they will probably need their nails trimmed every 10 or 12 weeks. But if your golden is constantly walking pavements and roads, they may never need a trim due to concrete and tarmacs abrasive, nail-file like effect. Anyway, you should regularly check your dogs paws. This can be very uncomfortable for your dog and if it gets out of control even painful. You can quite easily trim your dogs nails at home , or you can take them to the vet where they will do the procedure for you. If you do wish to do it at home, I recommend taking your dog to the vet first and asking for advice on how to do it, being shown and learning from the pros rather than risking it alone from a book. Better safe than sorry! Look inside to make sure they are a healthy looking color, not bright red and inflamed. Also check for lots of small little grainy looking brown dots. These are the droppings of ear mites and a sign of a parasitic infection which should be treated ASAP. Dental Care Dental hygiene is an often overlooked area of dog care by many people but is very important. Much like us, dogs can suffer with tooth decay, cracked teeth, gum disease and a build up of plaque and tartar. Not only does this detract from the overall good looks of your dog, it can be quiet uncomfortable, sometimes painful and can lead to more severe problems if left untreated. So you should regularly check their teeth and gums yourself, make use of available chews that help to clean their teeth and take your dog to a canine dentist every 6 to 12 months. Try to treat your dogs teeth as good as you would treat your own. Parasitic problems Fleas, ticks and other parasites can be a real problem for dogs, leading to many problems ranging from mild skin irritation, to extreme sores and infections, and in the most extreme cases dramatic weight loss, tape worms and Lyme disease. So you should regularly check for parasites in your Golden which is very easy to do if you are sticking to a regular schedule of brushing their coats. Simply spend an extra minute to inspect closer to their skin looking for ticks, fleas or small dots droppings in their fur which would indicate the presence of parasites. Treatment for fleas and ticks can be administered at home as there are many treatments for this available over the counter. Try to make it every 6 months, but once per year as a minimum. This will allow your vet to become familiar with your dog which makes spotting changes easier for them. And it gives them a chance to spot problems early that you without an untrained eye may not pick up on. As always, prevention is better than cure and if there is ever a problem then catching it as early as possible is vital for more effective treatment and minimal pain and discomfort for your pet. Regular visits to the vet allow this early discovery. You will also need to see your vet to have your puppy vaccinated. There are many diseases, some fatal, that can be prevented easily with a course of vaccinations. Distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis as well as the infamous rabies can all be kept at bay with vaccines. A puppy will require shots starting at 6 weeks with a course of various shots taking them up to 18 weeks or so. The rabies shot is administered at about 6 months of age and after this your Golden will require just a yearly top up to maintain protection. Highly Recommended Training Course For a detailed program to follow in the form of a video library, including a step-by-step roadmap for raising a puppy from 8 weeks old all the way to a confident, well-trained and happy adult dog, you could do a lot worse than checking out The Online Dog Trainer. This program contains over follow along videos of an NZ SPCA endorsed professional dog trainer, covering all aspects of dog training, solving behavior problems in real life scenarios, explaining the theory, giving practical advice and more. You can see him getting real results in real-life consultations with his clients, so if you ever have a behavior problem you need to solve, you can follow along for almost guaranteed results. Of course, we are developing a fantastic training resource here at TotallyGoldens. Click here to learn more at TheOnlineDogTrainer. Caring For Your Golden Retriever Final Thoughts Regular grooming will keep your Golden retriever not only looking at their absolute best, but also with your help and intervention it keeps them healthy and disease free too. You May Also Like. If you also have brought a newborn golden retriever puppy to your home, you need to be extra careful in handling him. It is significant to note that newborn golden retrievers should not be handled like human babies. In this article, I will suggest you 10 tips that will definitely help you to take care of a newborn golden retriever effectively. Before owning golden retriever, it is necessary to know about his temperament— Know everything about golden retriever temperament Ideally, it is better to allow the mother of golden retriever puppy to take its care and responsibility. The puppy must be allowed to stay with his mother and the litter for the first few days. The puppy owner must take care of the puppy as well as its mother and ensure that they are totally comfortable and at ease. Mother as well as the puppy must be fed properly and their nutritional demands must be met properly. A newborn golden retriever puppy may have a lot of needs and its mother can take better care of its growing needs. Since, initially, the puppy is non-explorative, it requires more attention as far its safety is concerned. Mother as well as the dog owner must take care of the highly vulnerable puppy. Proper diet and clean water must be provided to the mother, especially if she is nursing her baby. It is important to ensure that high quality ingredients are available in the food being provided to the mother and the kid so that their nutritional requirements are met in the most effective manner. I have listed some good commercial foods that are must have for the mother of new born puppy:. Grooming Gear like Shampoo, Brush, and Nail Clippers Fun Toys You may hear or read about certain items that people find ever so important to their time with a puppy. However, how you raise your puppy is completely up to you. What are some of the top suggested items you might consider? Car harness Poop bags and sanitary equipment Walking Harness Items such as a walking harness, car harness, and a crate can help you during the training process. These allow you to have better control over your golden retriever puppy during situations such as travel, times away, and even socialization. If you do not have a backyard area for your puppy to play and go potty in, there are many different sanitary objects you might consider picking up. Apartments, parks, and public areas will require you to pick up after your little buddy when they use the restroom, so having these handy will make things easier on you! Puppy Proof Your Home Having a puppy is exactly like having a new baby in your home. Puppies love to chew on things, get into trouble, and all around be mess makers. They baby-proof it! In areas, they are allowed to roam in, try to investigate any unsecured cupboards, trash bins, or cabinets they may be able to get into. You can either clear the space or get baby-proof locks to keep the puppy out. Take the time to also secure any loose wiring they can nibble on! Pick a Vet You Trust The puppy stages are when the most crucial health checkups and vaccinations occur. Take the time to research vets in your area who have good ratings and are available on your schedule. Then, call them! Finding a vet you can trust and who is happy to help can be a huge relief to you and your puppy. Puppies are hard work! There are certain steps you should take to make training and care of your puppy as easy as possible for the early learning stages and future situations. Let Your Puppy Acclimate When you go to a new place, it is all at once exciting, overwhelming, and a little upsetting. People get homesick and need time to acclimate to a new place, so is it any surprise the same is true for your new puppy? This may be their first time away from their mom and siblings. Let them investigate their forever home, find all the new smells, and get their legs. Make a Plan and Stick to It Before your golden retriever puppy arrives, build a routine and make a game plan for how you will handle situations. Puppies need a lot of care as they are learning, and knowing how you expect to handle accidents or missteps, such as accidental potty indoors, can help you remain strict but loving as you train your puppy. On top of that, keeping a routine such as set food times, walk times, and play times can help your puppy get the ropes more quickly. They will learn approximately when it is time to do certain things and allow you to get work done as they make naps fit your schedule. Socializing and Training Golden retrievers are smart, but just like any dog, working on socialization and training early can help you and your puppy build a stronger relationship. Potty training and obedience training are big hits, of course, but also keep in mind distance training and manners. Training your dog to understand when you are away that you are coming back can prevent them from having anxiety issues or dealing with damaged belongings. Manners training and socialization nearly go hand in hand. Having them meet new people and animals ensures they will be able to handle newcomers to your home or in public. Take the time to make every socialization a thorough learning experience where you train them not to jump or pull. Give Them Love Not every session with your dog should be training non-stop. Golden retriever puppies need love and cuddle time too! Be sure to play with your puppy and snuggle him as much as possible. You can even take him or her on adventures to let them have new experiences! Be sure to also offer them some alone time. It may sound silly, but letting them go around on their own allows them to explore the home and learn it is theirs. They can also process lessons they learned during the day! Share this:.