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This is why it is crucial that you understand how much to feed an English Bulldog puppy for proper health and longevity. These puppies need the same attention, particularly when it comes to eating, which is essential for good growth and development. If you have an English Bulldog puppy or are thinking about obtaining one, you will find our English Bulldog feeding chart invaluable. Puppies of all breeds, including the English Bulldog, need a diet tailored to their specific needs as they grow. Puppies under 3 months of age need more frequent feedings three to four per day , whereas pups aged 3 to 6 months only need three meals per day. They should be fed twice a day once they reach 6 months of age. You should also provide clean water for your dog at all times. They should be fed a high-quality puppy chow that has been moistened with water if they have begun eating solid food. An English Bulldog puppy of 6 weeks old should be energetic and sociable. Kids may start to act independently and exhibit their own unique identities. Take care not to leave any little things lying about that they may accidentally ingest. Give them a lot of things to chew on since teething may be uncomfortable for them. An English Bulldog puppy of 8 weeks old will likely be full of life and activity. They might be resistant, therefore your training efforts will need some time. Keep an eye out for symptoms of separation anxiety and work on establishing a routine. An English Bulldog puppy of 10 weeks will likely still be a lot of fun. Control their food consumption based on their weight. This may be given to the dog in two or three smaller meals. By the time they are 16 weeks old, English Bulldog puppies usually have a lot of excess energy and need to spend a lot of time playing and being active. Although signs of increased autonomy are encouraging, further training is still essential. Keep an eye on their eating habits and make any necessary adjustments to curb obesity. In some cases, you can feed them 4 cups but this is only if they are highly active. To avoid obesity, it is crucial to keep an eye on their weight and make dietary adjustments as required. Avoid overfeeding your English Bulldog since doing so might lead to obesity and health issues. It would be necessary to increase this till maturity. Puppies need a variety of vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients in addition to the macronutrients protein, fat, and carbs they consume. There should be a healthy equilibrium between calcium and phosphorus to avoid orthopedic issues, since both are crucial for bone formation. Avoiding obesity and its associated health risks requires careful nutrition and weight monitoring. To meet their energy demands and encourage healthy development, English Bulldog pups should be given many short meals throughout the day. Puppies should be fed three to four times a day until they are six months old, however, this may vary according to their age. They may reduce their intake to twice a day after six months. Overfeeding and free-feeding may cause obesity and other health issues. Kibble is practical since it can be stored easily and because it aids in the maintenance of healthy teeth. Wet food is a better alternative for fussy eaters or dogs with digestive concerns since it is often more appealing and may be simpler to digest. It has a shorter shelf life and may be more costly than kibble. The best option is ultimately determined by the specific requirements and preferences of each dog. Between 12 and 18 months of age, most experts advise making the transition to regular table fare. If you want to save your English Bulldog any stomach trouble, make the transfer to a new meal slowly over the course of a week to ten days. The best way to introduce a new meal to a pet is to incorporate it into their regular diet slowly at first. Selecting a premium adult dog food that is tailored to the specific dietary requirements of English Bulldogs is essential. Talk to your vet about when and what kind of food is best for your dog. Puppies have distinct nutritional demands that need feeding them at certain times and in precise quantities of food. Maintaining a healthy weight in your puppy may be achieved by regular feeding on a schedule and careful monitoring of food consumption. The Bulldog-shaped kibble is simple to pick up and chew, and the high-quality proteins and prebiotics support good digestion and stool quality. Conclusion English Bulldogs are greedy little creatures who will eat everything put in their way - which can make it hard as a dog owner to know how much you should feed your bulldog. An adult English Bulldog should be fed twice per day, once in the morning for their breakfast and then one again in the evening for their dinner. Their meals should consist of around 2 cups of quality kibble. If your bulldog is more sedentary, then you should consider feeding it less to ensure it doesn't become overweight. How much should an English Bulldog puppy eat? The main thing to worry about when feeing your English Bulldog puppy is overfeeding. Bulldogs will continue to eat whatever is put in front of them so we certainly don't recommend free feeding your pup. Over feeding a bulldog puppy will result in the puppy becoming overweight that can will be susceptible to joint, muscle and bone problems - which English Bulldogs are already prone too. Portions that are smaller and more often are the best. Feeding your puppy twice per day will ensure that it stays full for the full day and doesn't start crying for food later in the evening. It will also ensure that their stomach doesn't become overwhelmed, and should help avoid any problems with breathing. Why is my English Bulldog always hungry? Does your English Bulldog wolf down any food put in front of it? Does it sob and stare as you eat your meal, even after its just been fed? You might be thinking, why is my English Bulldog always hungry? In the wild, a dog would not know where their next meal would come from, and their mentality would always be to eat as much food as possible whenever possible. This trait has been passed down throughout generations of dogs, which is why your English Bulldog will always seem hungry. As long as you are feeding your English Bulldog their required amount of food every day, then don't fall for their cute little puppy eyes when they are begging for more food. Overfeeding your English Bulldog will lead to several health issues and complications, and with English Bulldogs not being the most active dog breed, overfeeding will lead to your bulldog becoming obese fairly quickly. If you often cave into feeding your English Bulldog when it cries, it will become more prone to doing so, knowing that it can get food on demand. An English Bulldog with an endless amount of food will simply eat until it cannot eat anymore. How to switch your bulldog puppy to an adult diet To switch your bulldog puppy to an adult diet, you should do so slowly over a period of a week - 10 days. At the same time decreasing the amount of puppy food in the bowl so by the end of the week your dog should only be eating adult food. Gradually introducing food to your pup helps prevent any gastrointestinal issues and will result in a happier pooch. Growing puppies have higher energy needs than adult dogs but once they have reached maturity their metabolic rate slows. The calorie-dense puppy food will have filled them up much quicker and fulfilled their energy demands when they have reached maturity. Conclusion Don't become fooled by an English Bulldog that is constantly begging for food. Stick to their deal meal requirements and don't overfeed your bulldog as it'll only lead to further complications. Given that they are experts in the field of animal health and welfare, they will know the best meal schedule for your dog. This is one of the simplest methods to keep your Bulldog happy and healthy. Therefore, by choosing the best food for your beloved buddy to eat, you could extend its life span! Some examples of dry dog food are dog biscuits, kibble, and flaked cereals. Before serving dry dog foods to Bulldogs, warm water or broth is frequently added to this to improve the texture and enhance the flavor. Canned Wet Food: Canned wet food is sometimes preferable to dry food because it has a lot more moisture and thus will keep your dog hydrated. Moreover, wet dog food is also more likely to be appreciated by your English Bulldog puppy because it is usually more flavorful. However, wet food may increase the likelihood of dental issues. Homemade Diet: Homemade diets can help you save money. This diet also allows you to have more control over the macronutrients your dog consumes. As a result, with a homemade diet, you can rest assured that your dog is only consuming the best ingredients. Raw Diet: Raw dog food can be purchased as a frozen log, or it can simply be prepared at home. However, keep in mind that it should be prepared using quality meat and healthy fats. When it comes to choosing the right food for a Bulldog puppy, you need to be sure that it has high-quality protein to allow its body to function properly. If you accidentally drop something on the floor, these canines will gobble it up. However, some foods are incredibly toxic and dangerous for English Bulldogs to consume, even in small amounts. Here are some foods that you should avoid feeding your Bulldogs: Chocolate: This delectable human food includes theobromine , a poison that impairs the kidney, heart, and other important organ functions of a Bulldog puppy. If consumed in large amounts, xylitol can cause severe liver damage to your Bulldog. Raw Bread Dough: This is extremely poisonous. Milk and Other Dairy Products: Providing milk and other dairy products could lead to puppy diarrhea and other digestive system problems. These human foods may also set off food allergies, which may result in crusty scabs around the mouth of your dog. Grapes and Raisins: These may be enticing to dogs as treats or snacks, but they could also contain mold and fungus, which can result in gastrointestinal discomfort, seizures , lethargy, or kidney failure. Tomatoes: These contain tomatine , a poisonous alkaloid that can cause muscle weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures. Avocado: This tasty human food contains persin, which takes dogs some time to digest. It may cause severe stomach pain, breathing problems, and a buildup of fluid in the chest. Mushrooms: If your English Bulldog puppy consumes wild mushrooms, you should treat it as an emergency because it can result in neurological symptoms, kidney and liver failure, and even death. Macadamia Nuts and Walnuts: These delicious Hawaiian treats rank among the most hazardous human foods for dogs. These nuts can cause hind legs to become paralyzed for anywhere between 12 and 24 hours after consumption. Aside from the listed foods, there are other foods that your Bulldog puppy should stay away from. Therefore, when your dog transitions from a puppy to an adult dog and also when they get closer to seniority, it makes sense to switch to a different diet. It could take some trial and error to find the best food for them. You can use the following transition chart as a guide for your English Bulldog puppy: Day. Plenty of dog lovers go to great lengths to discover the optimal dog food for their Bulldog puppies. Should Bulldog puppies be fed a raw food diet or wet and dry food? How can I optimize English Bulldog puppy feeding to promote a healthy immune system for my pup? Is commercial food bad for my Bulldog puppy? If you have ever owned an English Bulldog puppy, you have surely sought the answers to these questions. Some sources promote dry and wet foods, while others advocate for feeding an English Bulldog puppy raw food for high-quality protein. So, is one choice better than another? What sort of puppy food is best for your English Bulldog puppy? Before you seek answers to these questions online, consider that no one knows your English Bulldog puppy better than you do. Do you really want to take English Bulldog feeding advice from random individuals online? Have confidence in your abilities to choose a puppy food that is best for your pooch. You can try feeding them wet dog food, commercial dog food, dry dog food, or a raw food diet. There is no option that is inherently better than another. If it seems like your dog enjoys what they eat, then be consistent and routinely offer them the food that they enjoy. Healthy eating habits can easily be established from a young age for your tiny pooch. English Bulldog puppies can be brought to their forever home when they are around 2 months old. As a dog owner, there is no time more exciting than bringing your new English Bulldog puppy home. Why is my English Bulldog puppy neglecting to eat its food? Luckily, it is perfectly normal for young English Bulldogs to lack an appetite during their first day or two in their forever home. Why, you ask? Well, this is because the process of a puppy being uprooted from its dog family to go live with its human family can be frightening initially. An English Bulldog puppy may scarcely know its new owners when it gets adopted and brought home, and the new environment in which it is living can be unfamiliar and unsettling. This means that your English Bulldog puppy may—understandably—lack an appetite during its first couple of days at home. After a day or two, your puppy should begin eating like normal and beginning its rapid transformation into becoming an adult. These dogs will be plenty tiny at this point, but they will grow into sizable adult Bulldogs before you know it. To support the growth of your petite pup, how much food should they receive every day? English Bulldog puppies that are around two months of food should be offered 2 cups of food every day during their first week or two at home. As your pup gets used to living in its new home, its appetite may begin to increase. Young English Bulldog pups need to eat a sufficient amount of food. Feeding A Three-Month-Old Bulldog Now that your English Bulldog puppy is undoubtedly larger than it was when you first brought it home, you will need to increase the amount of food that you give to your precious pooch. By the time your English Bulldog is three months old, it should be consuming at least 2. English Bulldog puppies on the large end of the spectrum can eat anywhere from 2. This may seem like a lot of food for a puppy, but remember that these dogs grow rapidly. Therefore, though eating 3 cups of food every day would be a lot for puppies of most other breeds, it is a good amount of food for a three-month-old Bulldog. A typical four-month-old English Bulldog puppy should eat at least 3 cups of food every day. As they age, they will be able to eat closer to 3. Five-month-old Bulldog pups should consume more than 3 cups of food daily. In fact, this is about the time that English Bulldogs consume their peak daily quantities of food. As an English Bulldog puppy grows older than five months old, the amount of food that it requires every day will begin to trend downward. Proper English Bulldog puppy feeding is crucial during this pivotal time of growth. Five-month-old Bulldog pups can eat up to 3. A six-month-old English Bulldog can still eat a bit of food, so plan on feeding these dogs around 3. If you notice that your pooch is developing a bigger belly than expected, try to cut back on the amount of food that you give your dog. As your English Bulldog puppy reaches seven months old and beyond, you can begin to offer it less food since it will be finished with the teenage stage in its life. Seven to eight-month-old Bulldogs should be consuming about 3. Owners should pay attention to the weight and body size of their pooches during this time. Dogs on the heavy or lightweight ends of the spectrum should have their diets adjusted. By the time an English Bulldog puppy is nine months old, its food should again be decreased. Feed nine-month-old Bulldog puppies around 2. Feeding A Ten To Twelve-Month-Old Bulldog Around 10 to 12 months old is the time in which many puppies eat the most food during their lifetimes, but this is not the case for English Bulldogs. Ten to twelve-month-old English Bullies hardly look like the puppy that you brought home when they were 2 months old. Now, your precious pooch will look like an adult dog. This means that they should be eating like adults. Feed your ten-month-old English Bulldog pup around 2. As they approach twelve months old, continue to decrease their food. Twelve-month-old Bullies should eat around 2. This may be hard for you to believe that your furry friend is all grown up, but you can now consider your canine companion to be an adult. So, what does adult dog food have that puppy food does not? The two foods tend to have similar ingredients, but adult food usually has more protein and fats while possessing fewer calories. These ingredients are better suited to look after the nutritional needs of an adult dog. Adult food may be dry dog food, wet food, or other types of food. Again, you can feel confident with feeding your dog wet food, dry food, or raw food. Each type of dog food has pros and cons, and none are inherently better than the other options. Given that adult dogs are no longer growing, they do not need to consume nearly as much food as puppies. However, adult English Bulldogs still consume a considerable amount of food. Plan to feed an adult English Bulldog anywhere from 2 to 2. The exact amount of food that you should feed your English Bully will depend on its size, sex, and activity levels. Small adult Bulldogs will only need to eat 2 cups of food every day, while large adults should be eating closer to 2. Since adult Bulldogs are no longer growing, they may be prone to gaining weight. Though 2 to 2. Pregnant or Lactating Bulldogs Pregnant or lactating English Bulldog mothers need to consume an enormous amount of calories every day to ensure that they and their puppies are getting enough nourishment. The energy required to simply move around while carrying their developing pups is immense. Pregnant or lactating Bulldog mothers should eat well over 3 cups of food every day. Around 3. If it seems as though your mother Bulldog is still hungry after eating her daily food quota, be sure that you offer additional food to her. This is a time in which owners should not be concerned with the amount of food that their English Bulldog eats. Especially Active Bulldogs Pet lovers who own especially active Bulldogs will need to offer these dogs more food than a typical adult English Bulldog would consume. Bulldogs are not known as an activity or athletic breed of dog, so plenty of active dogs will need to be offered enough food to meet their energy requirements. Providing anywhere from 2. There are plenty of dry dog food options for senior dogs that are available in pet stores, but you may instead prefer to feed your dog wet food that is easier for them to chew than dry food. Ultimately, senior English Bulldogs will be perfectly content with wet food, dry food, or another option. No matter what food you select, it will be slightly different than adult dog foods in that it will prioritize healthy fats and proteins to maintain immune system health. Moreover, a senior dog food will have less of an emphasis on caloric intake. Being fed an amount of food over two cups every day would probably be too much food for your senior pooch. Instead, owners should aim to provide their seniors with anywhere between 1. If you are unsure of how many calories your senior dog needs or what type of food to provide your Bulldog, you can consult with your veterinarian. Many Bulldog owners wish to know if they can use free feeding to ensure that their Bulldog receives enough food. Unsurprisingly, having an unlimited amount of food at its disposal can lead to unhealthy weight gain for your furry friend. Owners searching for a simple way to go about English Bulldog feeding will find this method attractive, but free feeding makes it difficult for a Bulldog to maintain a healthy weight. Now that you know how much an English Bulldog should be eating based on its age, you are doubtlessly wondering about how many meals your Bulldog should consume every day. The amount of times a Bulldog will need to eat every day is directly correlated to the age of a dog, with young dogs requiring more food than adults. Bulldogs aged two to five months should eat high-protein puppy food at least three times every day, with some puppies consuming four daily meals. You may find that feeding a morning, late-morning, mid-afternoon, and evening meal is a great feeding schedule for you and your English Bulldog puppy. Bulldogs that are six to twelve months old do not need to eat quite as frequently as they did when they were younger since their metabolisms have slowed since that age. Still, Bulldogs at this age should be eating at least two meals every day. Some English Bulldogs at this age may prefer to eat three meals daily. Adult Bulldogs need to eat even less frequently than puppies since they are finished growing. Some dogs may continue eating two meals every day, while others will be content with a single meal. Senior Bulldogs should be on a feeding schedule similar to that of adults. Being fed high-quality protein food once or twice a day will be ideal for these dogs. So, how many cups of food should an overweight English Bulldog be eating every day? First, be sure that you are not overfeeding your dog. Refer to our recommendations in this article to discover the perfect amount of food for your Bulldog. If your dog is eating more food than recommended, reduce how many cups of food it is fed every day. If you are feeding your Bulldog a good amount of dog food, consider the other foods that it ingests. It is certainly not wise to feed English Bulldogs human foods like raw bread dough and most other human foods, as this can lead to health issues. If your Bulldog is eating a good amount and not consuming too many treats, perhaps they simply need to receive more exercise. Dog obesity is a serious issue. Food aggression is a behavior in which a dog becomes hostile while in the presence of food. This behavior is dangerous for both a Bulldog and a human. If your dog seems aggressive while presented with food, you should work to correct the behavior. Consult A Veterinarian Talking to a trusted veterinarian will reveal a wealth of information about English Bulldog puppy feeding for new pet owners. A vet may have recommendations about dry food options or food alternatives for your dog, and they will also describe how many calories your Bully should consume based on its size. You can always search for answers online, but a vet is able to physically evaluate your pooch to determine the perfect amount of food for English Bulldog puppies and adult English Bulldogs alike. English Bulldogs eat an assortment of different food amounts based on age, but an English Bulldog feeding chart will provide accurate estimates of the amount of food that would be optimal for your pooch. A Bulldog puppy feeding chart or adult feeding chart may also feature a certain take on the best dog foods for a Bulldog. An English Bulldog feeding chart may also assess the pros and cons of dry food, wet food, or other kinds of dog food. An adult or puppy feeding chart is an easily-accessible way to quickly find the information that you seek. The potential benefits of raw Swapping Puppy Food Brands When you first bring your Bulldog puppy home you should feed him the same food that he was getting from the breeder or shelter for about three to four weeks. This will give him time to acclimate to his new surroundings and get used to being separated from his mom and siblings. Mix about three-quarters of the puppy food he eats now with one-quarter of the new food for the first two to three days. For the next two or three days give him equal portions of the old and new food. Finally, give him three-quarters of the new food and one-quarter of the old food for two to three days. Bulldog Puppy Diets The sheer number of different puppy foods to choose from can be overwhelming. Your breeder may be able to give you some guidance. Puppies need plenty of protein to promote strong bone, muscle, and joint growth. Guidelines on labels will give you an idea of the amount to feed your puppy, but ultimately each dog is an individual. Their body size, not what the label says, is a better indicator of a proper portion. A serving size can also vary depending on the type of food or brand as well. Special Requirements Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. Chewing and swallowing can also be a problem. This is because the palate, teeth, tongue, and tissue are the same size as that of a dog with a much longer muzzle. Many Bulldogs also suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome which causes serious breathing issues that can also make eating difficult. You might also find combining dry food with a good quality wet food is easier for them to consume. From three to six months, you can reduce it to three times a day. At six to 12 months old, you can feed him twice a day. Bulldogs are highly at risk for hip dysplasia. In fact, this study of 20 English Bulldogs found that none of the hips showed normal development and .Feeding a Bulldog Puppy Kibble Dry kibble is probably the most popular all-round puppy food choice. Make sure you choose a dry formula designed specifically for puppies. However, not all brands are created equal. Stay away from ingredients like corn.

Brush Frequently Brushing their coat at least 3 times a week is an absolute must. Longer hair tends to tangle, and curly hair can mat easily. If you leave it too long between brushes, the problems will build, and knots will be that much harder to remove. See Also: Click the image 2. Not only can water tighten knots making them impossible to remove, but matting tends to hold onto both water and shampoo. This can leave skin itchy, flaky, and sore. Use a pin brush or long-tooth comb and pay special attention to areas such as behind the ears and around the tail. This is where tangles tend to accumulate. This can dry their skin and counteract the moisturizing effect of shampoos and conditioners. Instead, give their coat a good rub with a towel and leave it to air dry. Keep Them Groomed Trimming or clipping your Labradoodle can keep them cool in hot weather and make brushing them easier. You will also need to cut any long hair around their eyes to prevent their vision from becoming obstructed. See Also: Click the image 5. Feed Them The Best Hair and skin health begins on the inside. This is as true of dogs as it is of people. Protein is a crucial part of the canine diet, but dogs also need a range of other nutrients and regular access to fresh water. There is no single answer to this question as no two Labradoodles are the same. However, there are a few good rules of thumb. For instance, high-quality, botanical ingredients are less likely to cause irritation than chemicals often found in bottom-of-the-market shampoos. We have chosen Cowboy Magic Rosewater Shampoo as the best overall shampoo because of its versatility. Unless your Doodle has any particular coat care needs, this should suit them nicely. How Often Should a Labradoodle be Bathed? Most Labradoodle experts say that you should only bathe them every six to eight weeks as over-bathing can harm the quality of their coat. That being said, if your pooch has been out rolling in something nasty, you should give them a good clean before they tramp the smell through your house. How often you bathe your Doodle will also depend on the type of shampoo you have. However, products that target specific issues are likely to contain stronger chemical ingredients and should be used more sparingly. However, be extremely careful about using human shampoo on canines as they are made to suit different skin types. Humans have about twice as many layers of skin compared to our four-legged friends. Plus, human skin sits around 5. That being said, baby shampoos tend to be more pH-balanced and are perfectly fine for dogs. Are Labradoodles High Maintenance? Labradoodles might be considered a high maintenance breed. Of course, coats vary, and some can be a little more challenging than others. However, if you find a shampoo that suits your pet and stick to a regular grooming routine, you will likely have very few issues. One area that needs a little more attention with these dogs is their fun, floppy ears. They can easily trap both dirt and moisture, making them the perfect breeding ground for infection-causing bacteria. You want something that will keep them looking and smelling great while helping to maintain the health of their skin and coat. What is your go-to shampoo for your Doodle? Let us know by leaving a comment below! Learn How to Upkeep Your Doodle! Enroll Now The information on this page is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional groomer advice. Always seek the advice of your groomer, veterinarian, or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like. Scent can be overwhelming Verdict The Pet Oatmeal Anti-Itchy Shampoo is the best 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner for dogs with itchy skin. This shampoo smells amazing, relieves itchy skin, and improves the coat condition. It is a perfect shampoo for Labradoodles. To bathe your Labradoodle properly, it is best to only do so when it is dirty or smells bad. Make sure to brush your dog before taking it for its bath. It will help to remove all the tangles and make the bathing session easier. Use the gentlest dog shampoo and lukewarm water. Always start by washing the head of the dog, working your way down to the tail. You must also make sure that the water is not too hot or too cold. Check the water temperature before using it on your doodle. To wash a Labradoodle, you can use two to five large towels. If you have a bathing tub or a sink, use a higher absorbency towel. This breed is prone to mats, which can be a problem when wet. Once the dog is clean, remove them from the bathtub and bring them to a cleanroom. Why Is Bathing Important for Labradoodles? Bathing your Labradoodles is important for several reasons. First, it helps them stay healthy and clean. Secondly, it prevents bad odor from their coat. Regular bathing is an important part of grooming. It can also prevent the development of skin problems. And finally, regular bathing can save your dog from a lot of discomforts. Labradoodles should always be bathed as often as they need to be. Unlike short-haired dogs, Labradoodles have thick curly hair that can be more difficult to clean. You can also save money by bathing your labradoodle at home. All you need to do is invest in the right dog shampoo. You can even bathe your Labradoodle at the groomer. The long ears of a Labradoodle can cause ear infections. Bathing helps to clean all the dirt and debris from their ears, thereby keeping them healthy. This is why your Labradoodle needs to be bathed every so often. How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Labradoodles? The right shampoo can make all the difference when it comes to the health and appearance of your Labradoodle. Here are some factors you need to consider to choose the best shampoo. Ingredients: The first thing to consider when buying a shampoo for your Labradoodle is the type of ingredients. Shampoo Type: Choosing the right shampoo for your Labradoodle is not difficult. There are several different types of shampoo for Labradoodles. A good one is pH-balanced to be gentle on the skin while also being tough on dirt. One of the best ways to get the cleanest coat possible for your Labradoodle is to use a gentle, natural dog shampoo. If your dog is prone to allergies, try a hypoallergenic, pH-balanced shampoo. Coat Type: Before choosing a shampoo for your Labradoodle, you should consider the coat type. Each variety of coats requires different cleaning techniques. For example, some Labradoodles have a curly, coarse coat, while others have a finer, thinner, straighter coat. Safety: One of the most important things to remember when choosing a shampoo for your Labradoodle is safety. It is important to keep the pH level in a healthy range. When buying a shampoo for your Labradoodle, you should look for one that is suitable for sensitive skin. It is important to choose a product that will not irritate the sensitive skin of your dog. If your dog has any medical condition like allergies, dry skin, dandruff, or sensitive skin, choose an antifungal or antibacterial medicated shampoo. You can also opt for shedding control shampoo. Age of Dog: The age of your labradoodle should be taken into consideration when choosing a shampoo. If you have a puppy, make sure you use a shampoo that is specially developed for puppies. The shampoo should be tear-free as well. If you are thinking of getting a Labradoodle, you may be wondering how often you should bathe it. This breed is known for its large ears, which can easily become infected. Normally you need to bathe them after every 4 to 6 weeks. Most people take their Labradoodles to professional groomers for bathing. However, you can bathe them at home as well. If your dog has a long coat and tends to get dirty, you need to bathe them every month. Can I use human shampoo for bathing my Labradoodle? There are certain precautions you need to take when bathing your dog. If the dog is allergic, you need to use a special dog shampoo. While you can use an all-natural shampoo, it is highly recommended that you use a dog shampoo for bathing your doodle. Instead of using shampoo, you need to use a washcloth and clean their face. However, if the face is really dirty, you can use a tear-free shampoo for bathing. Apply a small amount to the dirty area and use a toothbrush to make lather. After that, you can wipe it with a washcloth and then rinse it with water. However, you still need to bathe them from time to time to prevent bad odor and keep their coat free from dander. You can invest in a shampoo and bathe them on your own. To help you make the right buying decision, we have reviewed the best shampoo for Labradoodles. Our team has taken important factors into consideration like coat type, medical conditions, skin type, safety, and ingredients to select the best product. We plan to update this page regularly as better products are launched. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Just the other day, after giving my Labradoodle a bath with this shampoo, I could see and feel the improvement in their coat. The colloidal oat flour and honey formula did wonders for soothing and moisturizing their dry, itchy skin. When washing my Labradoodle, I noticed the shampoo lathered lightly and required a bit more product than usual. This shampoo will leave your furry friend feeling refreshed, and its natural ingredients are gentle on their skin. Ingredients First and foremost, pay attention to the ingredients. Look for a shampoo that is free of harsh chemicals, parabens, and sulfates. Instead, opt for a product with gentle, natural ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and oatmeal. Hypoallergenic If your labradoodle has allergies or sensitive skin, a hypoallergenic shampoo will be your best bet. These products are formulated without common allergens and irritants, reducing the risk of reactions. Look for ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, or almond oil, which will help nourish and detangle their fur. Scent While it might be tempting to choose a shampoo with a strong, perfumed scent, remember that your labradoodle will be the one wearing it. Happy shopping! I love the super soft coat our our Labradoodle Max. Keeping that coat healthy and puppy-soft as he get older and plays in the mud and beach has been tricky. We have tested so many types of shampoo to come up with our four favourites. We only elect natural and healthy shampoos that are low allergy. Choosing natural ingredients is so important for both the puppy skin AND the human doing the washing. Keep the ingredient list natural to avoid any type of skin reactions or allergies. The second element we looked for is the smell! We all want a nice smelling dog — but the odor must not be too perfume-y or fake. We want a clean smelling dog — not a perfume fluff ball that turns up noses! All four of our top choices of Labradoodle shampoo have a delightful smell that is not too strong. Finding the middle ground can be tough! A miniature Labradoodle after a shower. Good boy Max! Tips to Make Shampooing a Labradoodle easier Labradoodles typically have a low or non-shedding coat that is easy to maintain. Brushing every other day with a quality comb or slicker brush will keep the coat in good order. Shampoo and wash only when needed. Even with the quality shampoos there is a risk of over washing. The biggest obstacle to shampooing or washing a Labradoodle is… the Labradoodle. Not every dog likes to have its coat cleaned! Tips to make the Labradoodle shampooing experience easier include Consider switching it up between a bath and a shower. Both can work to wash a Labradoodle. One might be easier than the other depending on temperament and size of the Labradoodle Use warm water instead. Avoid hot or cold water. Most dogs like water that is a bit warmer than room temperature. Pick good quality dog foods to keep the coat healthy look for Omega-3 in particular. These are found in almost every dry food on the market Dogs that frequent the beach or lake need extra washing but consider using less shampoo. A quick rinse immediately after leaving the ocean or lake will remove the debris and sand. Doing this immediately also prevents matting or hair twisting that can make the grooming difficult. Completely dry Labradoodle hair is much easier to manage and groom. Get this step sorted before the bath. When you do shampoo your Labradoodle the fastest and easiest way is to Set the water to warm We the dog ALL over first Use a SMALL amount of shampoo to begin with Pat it onto the hair and gently massage Use more if needed Try not to cause matting with the clean — the quality shampoos will help keep the hair stands separate Keep the shampoo and water OUT of the ears of the Labradoodle Cleaning Labradoodle ears is a separate but important task. You will need to trim the ears, remove extra hairs plucking! You need simple and budget friendly tools to perform this easy DIY task. We wrote a simple guide to at home Labradoodle ear grooming. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. This is an awesome product from one of the most respected brands in the industry, they produce quality shampoos, from cosmetic grade ingredients, and sell them at a very reasonable price point. The bulk of the cleaning power comes from the coconut extract base that combines with natural essential oils and other deodorizing compounds. The high-quality nature of the ingredients in this product ensures that it creates a thick luxurious lather despite the lack of soap — which is something other lower quality products struggle with. We really liked the scented infusions in this product that make it one of the best soothing shampoos on the market. This product honestly does everything a good Labradoodle shampoo should do, and more. Unless you have some very specific reason to try something else, this should be at the very top of your shortlist. Like the product above, this is an all natural product that contains no soap, alcohol, or chemicals in its formula whatsoever. The amount of effort 4-Legger put into its natural company ethos is quite honestly impressive. We absolutely love the cleaning power that this product provides. The zesty fresh material is antibacterial and antifungal — which means the stench causing bacteria the currently live on your pooch are going to have a very, very bad time. As an added bonus, lemongrass has a small yet significant amount of pest repellent capability inherently inside of it. This is probably a better product than our overall recommendation slightly , but there is one small issue, the price. The lather it generates is luxurious and the light fresh scent it leaves behind is pleasant too. Similarly, the delicate skin of your young Labradoodle will be nourished and protected by the various high-quality compounds inside the shampoo. The real reason we like this product is the tearless nature of the formula. This will make bath time an even more unpleasant experience for them than it usually already is — which is obviously less than ideal. The aloe vera infusion in the conditioner is generous and will leave your pooch with healthy, well-protected skin. Earthbath is a reputable brand and has a reputation for creating organic quality on the same level as 4-Legger that we chose as our runner up in the section above. However, the cleaning power it provides is more than acceptable with oat flour in its ingredient list, and the conditioner is surprisingly effective too thanks to the honey extract in the formula. The tangling and matting that is a fact of life for Labradoodles becomes much harder to remove after it has been in contact with water. Removing the tangling by grooming before bathing eliminates this issue, and it makes the post bathing grooming session quicker and easier too. Lather Them Well The thick curly hair of your Labradoodle is very dense compared to some other breeds. Run The Bath Before Calling Them In Labradoodles often get anxious around bath time, and anything that you can do to make the experience a little less stressful for them will be appreciated by your pooch. One of the worst parts about bathing for a dog is sitting around waiting for the process to start. The best way to do this is to run the bath before you call them in and make sure you have everything nearby that you need to complete the bathing session. Then you simply call them, pick them up, and put them in the tub to get on with the job. How a reasonably small dog like the this can shed so much hair in the tub while remaining cuddly and fluffy is almost magic. As you already know, hair is one of the worst things in the world for plumbing blockages, so you need to catch as much of it as you can before it makes it down the drain. Get a piece of steel wool and place it in the plug hole before you start bathing your dog. The steel wool will trap any hair it comes into contact with easily, which leaves your plumbing fully protected from your pooch. Follow the hints and tips above, and you and your pooch are going to enjoy grooming and bathing a whole lot more. We put a huge amount of effort into the product recommendations we made earlier, and we honestly think that they represent the best Labradoodle shampoos on the market in .Any of them are more than worthy of your consideration, they beat off some stiff competition to be mentioned here today and they are all winners in our eyes. Sean Green Pet. Reviews was founded by Sean Green, a devoted pet owner and champion of quality pet products. Sean is supported by a knowledgeable team of pet-loving writers who work together to provide you with a wealth of information about training and caring for your dog. Post navigation. How to wash your Labradoodle One of the most popular traits of the Labradoodle breed is their coat! Labradoodles have soft, curly, and low shedding coats. Such as, after a muddy walk! So, choosing the right shampoo for your Labradoodle is important to keep their coat looking its best. All of these products were carefully and independently selected by The Labradoodle Site team. If you decide to make a purchase from one of the links marked by an asterisk, we may earn a small commission on that sale. This is at no extra cost to you. There are three major factors to consider. Firstly, what coat type does your Labradoodle have? Hair coat types are the straightest and usually the highest shedding. Wool coats have tight curls and can tangle easily. And fleece coats fall somewhere in between. Secondly, you must consider the age of your Labradoodle. Puppy coats are very different to adult dog coats! And so, their needs will usually be different too. Puppies often need a shampoo that is very gentle on their skin, and will need to be introduced to bathing slowly with positive reinforcement. Finally, you must also consider any particular skin problems or special care needs that your Labradoodle has. For instance, sensitive skin shampoos can contain ingredients known to soothe the symptoms of problems like atopic dermatitis or skin infections. Best Shampoo for Labradoodle Dogs The best shampoo for your Labradoodle will consider their specific skin needs, their age, and their coat type. You should choose a shampoo with dog-safe ingredients. Most shampoos for dogs will have minimal perfume, if any. Here are some options that could be just right for your adult Labradoodle. It comes in a 16 ounce bottle. And, if this product suits your Labradoodle well, they might also benefit from the other many grooming products the Healthy Breeds brand has. Including an ear cleanser, and tear stain wipes. This shampoo is designed to get deep into tightly coiled curls to remove any dirt and grime and wash away easily. Tropiclean 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner Cleans and conditions coat in one wash Papaya and coconut scent to mask bad smells Spill resistant packaging Comes in a huge range of sizes The Tropiclean 2 in 1 option is both a shampoo and a conditioner. And, if you love the Tropiclean shampoo, you can purchase bottles as large as 2. This shampoo and conditioner duo contains ingredients like oatmeal and neem oil to soothe itchiness in dogs with skin problems. This shampoo also comes in a variety of sizes, so if you love it, you can buy it in larger quantities. So, if your Labradoodle loves to roll in stinky things, or loves to get into messy predicaments on your walks, this could be the best option for you. The standard bottle contains 32 ounces of product. Best Puppy Shampoo for Labradoodles Not all shampoos will suit puppies as well as adult dogs. Over the first year of their life, this coat will shed away to reveal their adult coat. Puppies often have more sensitive skin than adult dogs. Some ingredients found in shampoos for adult dogs will be too harsh for puppies. But, bathing your puppy is still important, as it socializes them to the process. If you never wash your puppy, bath time can be a stressful, overwhelming experience as an adult dog. Here are some of our favorite options. It cleanses fur and gets deep into knots and tangles to make untangling easier. This shampoo also has a mild coconut scent, to leave your Labradoodle puppy smelling fresh but not overwhelming. This shampoo comes in a variety of bottle sizes. But, it recommends waiting until 12 weeks of age before using it on your puppy. This shampoo has a high concentration so you can get more baths from your product. Isle of Dogs Everyday Puppy Shampoo. Labradoodles have a beautiful coat of hair on them and this makes them one of the most sought after breeds. If you want a dog that is easy to maintain but still has a beautiful coat a labradoodle is an ideal pick. The coat on a labradoodle is easy to clean and maintain so you will not need to bath them often, but when you do make sure you use a great shampoo. The type of shampoo that you choose to use depends on the way that your dog responds to each type of shampoo. For instance, if your dog has itchy or sensitive skin you may want to invest in a hypoallergenic shampoo. If your dog has dry skin you will likely want to get a shampoo and conditioner mix to help moisturize the skin. Finding the perfect shampoo for your dog can be a challenge but this list of best shampoos is here to help make your job easier and your labradoodle bath more fun and healthy. Popular Types Of Labradoodle Shampoos There are many popular brands of labradoodle shampoos on the market. Each shampoo is designed a little differently even if there are many popular brands on the market. They all have different scents and benefits that you may want for your dog. Remember to research each brand throughout before just picking one out. Giving your dog a bath should be a fun experience for you both. It allows you both time to bond together and plays in the water. Often, the shampoos that are sold for dogs are full of perfumes and irritants that make the experience a hassle, rather than a fun time. Finding the best shampoos for Labradoodle can make the entire experience of getting a bath something that you will want to do repeatedly. The most popular brands of dog shampoo often come with hypoallergenic ingredients and a simple, yet calming smell that you and your dog will both love. Once you find the best shampoos for labradoodle it will be almost impossible to get you to try something else. These brands of shampoo and conditioners are amazing and the results that they produce are almost impossible to achieve. It can help relieve dry and itchy skin because it is made with aloe vera, baking soda, and oatmeal. This product is great for sensitive skin. It is a professional grade shampoo that will make your labradoodle look and feel its best. This product includes baking soda that helps provide your dog with antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It gives off a fresh apple scent that is not too strong. The shampoo has a very light scent, lathers great, does not leave a residue. I will continue buying this product and use it on both of my dogs. Very happy with this purchase. Mighty Petz 2-in-1 Oatmeal Dog Shampoo And Conditione r Features The mighty Petz is an all-natural ingredient shampoo with oatmeal, aloe Vera, and lavender suitable for moisturizing the skin and keeping it shiny. It soothes the skin perfectly since it has no alcohol ingredient or parabens. The shampoo is biodegradable for sustainable development and keeping your home clean from pollutants. Has no paraben or alcohol ingredient It is all-natural with quality natural ingredients. Has a balanced pH for multiple uses Cons Ensure you have rinsed your dog thoroughly after a bath You may need a lot of water for proper conditioning. It also has no chemicals that can be harmful to your pet. Get your product delivered efficiently by buying from Amazon today. Click here to view the product and make your purchase. It is made with chlorhexidine and ketoconazole ingredients, suitable for treating and eliminating yeast and bacterial infections from the skin. It can also prevent more skin infections such as fungus, ringworm, and pyoderma. Pros Suitable for skin infected with fungi and bacteria Cleanses and moisturizes the skin effectively. Stops all irritations and itching of the skin Cons Not everyone may be impressed by its scent. It also eliminates all discomfort giving you quality time with your Labradoodle. Check out the Smiling Paws dog shampoo on Amazon and buy it here for reliable and convenient delivery. They are formulated, and some serve different special functions such as moisturizing the skin, soothing itchy skin, keeping skin healthy and shiny, and several incredible benefits. If you are a first-time pet parent, choosing the best shampoo for Labradoodles can be tricky and overwhelming. Already we have shown you the top 10 best dog shampoos that you can get from Amazon today and start using. When they occur, they cause discomfort due to dry skin, sores, rashes, hair loss, hot spots, and making them scratch and bite their bodies. These symptoms show that your dog may have a skin problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. It would be best to treat these conditions immediately since they can lead to severe health issues. However, Labradoodles have thick coats, and it may not be easy to see any rash or hot spots quickly. You need to regularly check under the skin for these symptoms and promptly give them the best medical care they need by using the best shampoo for relieving such infections. Also, look for fleas and ticks that may be trapped on the skin and not visible. Some dogs may feel agitated when you touch the affected area and be keen to see how they react when you touch their skin. You need to scrutinize the area and see what makes them feel pain. If you continue without stopping, they may react according to the degree of pain they are feeling. It will help you seek help from a veterinarian if you find unusual swelling or blood on the skin. Some topical treatments and shampoos can make your dog better immediately after you start using them. There are several options on the list provided above. Combining healthy and natural ingredients in dog shampoos are imperative to soothe irritation and treat these skin ailments fast. The best shampoo for Labradoodles with skin ailments is always labeled for sensitive skin; consider that when you go shopping on Amazon, they are all specified on the product description. Best Shampoo For Labradoodle Puppies If you have a puppy Labradoodle, then you will need to be keener on the dog shampoo you choose to use on them. Their skin is very delicate and gentle, making it prone to irritation when using the wrong shampoo in grooming. It would help to use dog shampoos with no harsh chemicals that can cause irritations and itching to the skin for grooming your puppy. The most commonly used natural ingredients for dog shampoos are coconut oil and aloe vera. The top list has several products with such ingredients, and some are purely organic. They help your puppy get a moisturized skin, free from irritations and itching with high-quality components. Also, note that the puppy dog shampoo should be gentle on the nose, eyes, and mouth without causing any itch. Look for the best shampoo by reading its descriptions and finding all the ingredients included in making it. However, when they are affected by fleas or ticks, they may start shedding excessively and make their coats looks untidy and disorganized. Attack by fleas on the skin may also lead to thyroid or hormonal disorder in your dog. Some dogs also shed more in the spring seasons just after the winter to allow for more calm air to reach their skin. It is best to purchase the best dog shampoo to reduce excess shedding. The shampoo should also prevent attack by fleas or any other tropical infections. When you groom your Labradoodle, brush them well to cut down excess fur that may fall on the house and seats. There are several quality products above with natural ingredients that will help prevent fleas and ticks from attacking your Labradoodle skin. Sometimes the dog may feel tired and lack appetite due to an attack by a parasite. You will need to visit a vet in case of severe lethargy and loss of appetite in your dog. However, if it is just dandruff, there are several dog shampoos you can use. Several products on the top list can help you avoid dry skin and dandruff from attacking your dog. Best Shampoo For Labradoodle Deodorizing Labradoodles are allergy-friendly and smell better than any other dog breed. But sometimes, while they play, they may roll on messy substances that make them stink. Several products remove stinking and replace it with naturally occurring scents such as lavender or honey sage. Consider choosing the scent that you and your family like before you purchase the product. Some products have a very intense scent that may not be suitable for allergic people. These different coat textures need other shampoos since they are groomed differently. Labradoodles with fleece coats have wavy fur, with long and flowing hair. The fur is very soft and silky, which rarely sheds. Grooming is painless and does not have to be often. Some have wool coats that are tightly curled together and feel like real wool. They do not often shed, and you need to use the best dog shampoo to keep their skin moisturized. The first Labradoodles have hair coats with no fur that may be straight or wavy depending on their parents. They usually shed, and you need to acquire nonshedding dog shampoos to help in grooming them. Brushing is also crucial to prevent excessive shedding. Your shampoo should also be non-irritating to help your dog enjoy the grooming session. They look charming and memorable to hold and spend quality time with them in the house or outside in the park. However, they need to be well-groomed and smell friendly always to be a good company. Here are some top tips to help you maintain the coat of your Labradoodle. The coat will tend to thicken and mat naturally as the puppy grows older. It is best not to shave the puppy Labradoodle but wait till they grow older. Ensure to clean the coat often instead of considering a cut. It would help to let the puppy dry or use air drying. It is essential for a shinier, silkier, and softer looking skin, which will prevent any case of matting. The top list has the best dog shampoos you can check to get the best to apply to your Labradoodle. Ensure you get a shampoo with natural ingredients and convenient to solve all the issues your dog has. Good nutrition helps to keep the internal health and the external appearance glow. Give your dog food with no fillers to make the coat look silky and soft. Avoid excess sugar that may affect how water is regulated in the bloodstream. Just like human beings, the skin depends on the number of sugars we take in. Consider talking to your veterinarian for a proper plan to feed your dog. If you bathe them too often, their skin will also dry out and look dull. However, there are situations such as muddy weather that can require you to bathe them often. If you have to, look for the gentle on the skin and have the best conditioning in the top list. Also, consider talking to the breeder or the veterinarian about how you can take good skincare through grooming. Different coats have different grooming strategies. Frequently Asked Questions Here are some common questions people ask about the best shampoo for Labradoodles and how to bathe them. Find out the answers below. The situation will depend on several factors such as weather and your labradoodle coating. The best time to bathe your dog is after every three to five weeks. If this is not possible and you need to clean them often, look for a gentle shampoo to use. Although some human shampoos are convenient for sensitive skin, dog shampoos are optimized for their coating and delicate skin. Here is a step-by-step guide to washing your Labradoodle: Brush the coat of your Labradoodle well before it gets wet. It helps to cut knots and tangles on the fur. Test the water temperature if suitable by letting your dog in a little sample. Labradoodles love water, but it has to be balanced for them to enjoy the session. Place a non-slip surface on the bath-tub such as a rug or towel. It helps your dog remain stable, and they will not slip as you bathe them. Rinse your dog effectively with enough water and make sure all the shampoo is drained. Leave your dog without going to any dusty surfaces. To ensure the skin gets its smooth texture and silky look. It is impressive and purely organic for the perfect grooming and sensitive skin. It has the best scent lemongrass scent to keep your dog smelling nice all day, every day. The 4-legger also lathers quickly for the best and reliable grooming session. Hope you enjoyed this post about the best shampoo for Labradoodles. Drop any questions in the comment section below. If you enjoyed this post, then you will love these posts:. Polyethylene Glycol PEG Lanolin You should also be aware of any allergies your dog has and try to avoid them in all of your grooming products. You can find the ingredients of store-bought products on their labels or in the product description of their online listings. Other factors You may also want to consider buying from well-known, trusted brands and buying products with ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients and materials if that is important to you. You may also want to look out for those that have been tested by official bodies or made in approved facilities in the US or Europe, and products that are approved or recommended by vets. How often should I bathe my Labradoodle? How often you should bathe a dog depends on their coat type. Labradoodles typically need bathing approximately once a month, or whenever they are dirty. In fact, many dogs can get away with a few baths a year, but not the Doodle! Ask somebody you trust to keep them still and comfort them while you wet their fur using some warm water. Gently massage it into their skin and let it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, rinse it away with more warm water and repeat if necessary. Towel dry the excess water from their coat and let them air dry, or use a hairdryer on a cool setting if they are okay with it. If you have a rescue Doodle, focus on building your trust with them before you attempt a bath. Should you bathe a Doodle puppy? You can start bathing your Labradoodle pup when they are around three months old. When bathing your puppy for the first time, introduce the concept gradually. Get the water ready and make it fun by splashing around or playing in it with a toy, and then bathe a paw or two to show them how it works. What if my Doodle hates baths? If your Labradoodle hates being bathed or does not like water, consider using a waterless shampoo instead, or at least incorporating it into your routine to increase the time between baths. Try to make them a positive experience by going very slowly. Shampoo and rinse each section of their coat separately and reward them as you go. Make it fun by splashing the water around and turning it into a fun game. Are Labradoodles allergic to shampoo? Any dog can have an allergy, but Labradoodles are especially prone to suffering from allergies. Symptoms of a reaction may include swollen eyes, runny eyes and nose, red skin, and skin irritation. If your dog reacts to any grooming product in this way, stop using it immediately and make a note of the ingredients to avoid them in the future. Should I use conditioner on my Labradoodle? Matting can cause pain, discomfort, and even infection. They can also conceal other skin problems. Can I use human shampoo on my Doodle? So, using your shampoo on your Doodle, especially on a regular basis, could completely disrupt their pH levels, make their fur dry and brittle, and irritate their skin. Can you bathe your Doodle too much? You can over-bathe your Doodle. Although they need regular grooming, bathing them more than what is recommended can strip the coat of its natural oils and damage the coat and skin, leaving it dry, irritated, and brittle.

Boxer Pregnancy Signs of Pregnancy Whether you are purposely and carefully breeding your female Boxer or you think your Boxer may be pregnant due to an unplanned tie, it is important to notice the subtle signs as soon as possible. It will only take 9 weeks 63 days, on average for your Boxer to go from conceiving to having her puppies; it is vital to give her special care as soon as you know she is expecting. The signs of Boxer pregnancy are not glaringly obvious immediately. However, you'll know, just by the physical changes, within the first two to three weeks. You'll take a step back and wonder, "Does her stomach look a bit rounded out? She may begin to show dominance around the home; to other pets and even try to show this to her owners She may be moody; wanting to be left alone and rest as opposed to her normal wanting to play, etc. Possible decreased appetite at first, then a heartier appetite by week 3. Confirming if a Boxer Dog is Pregnant Typically, there are no outward signs during the first two weeks. A female may start to show signs by week 3. And it will not be until week 3 that a pregnancy can be confirmed by the veterinarian. There are several different types of tests that can be done. Blood test: This is the test that will let you know as early as possible; it is accurate starting on day .Ultrasound: This is accurate starting on day 28 and is not usually performed if a blood test was conclusive unless the veterinarian suspects possible issues. Palpation: This refers to a vet manually feeling the abdomen. An experienced vet should be able to tell by day .X-rays: These will not be conclusive until day 42, because until this time bones of the fetuses have not calcified enough. These are often taken a week or so before the expected due date to confirm how many puppies to expect. Special Care During the Pregnancy From the time that you learn your Boxer is pregnant to several weeks after the birthing of the pups, your dog will need special care. Her increased appetite after week 3 will be the most obvious sign and the one that you will need to tend to. A Boxer in this state will normally eat about 3 times the amount she normally does. Although she will be eating more in the last 3 weeks, be sure to spread out meals 3 to 5 times per day so that bloat does not occur. Do not give her additional calcium. This has been linked to eclampsia a sometimes fatal drop in blood calcium levels that occurs in nursing dams , difficult deliveries, soft tissue calcium deposits in the puppies, and certain joint abnormalities in the pups. Too much of these can cause birth defects in the puppies. Look for any discharge and report even a small amount to the vet. It can be a sign of a very serious infection including pyometra, which an be deadly if not treated. Do not be surprised if your Boxer's stomach does not appear to be too big. A large Boxer carrying a small litter will not have that much of a drooping stomach. Keep her exercising with daily walks; it is important to keep her in good shape. This can be curtailed for the last week, as she should be inside and resting. Knowing it is Time Your Boxer's veterinarian can tell you exactly how far along your dog is via an ultra sound or x-ray. Knowing that the day is approaching, beginning on day 55 you can take your dog's temperature. This is done rectally. A dog's normal temperature is .When her temperature goes down to 98 F .Setting up a Whelping Box A whelping box is the area that you will prepare for your dog to give birth. It must be a confined area that: Is placed in a quiet area; once she gives birth, she will nest here to nurse her puppies. Has at least 15 layers of sheets on the floor of the box. As she goes through the delivery process, you can roll up and put each layer into a large, strong trash bag. This will create new, fresh sheets throughout the delivery. Crumbled up or shredded newspaper can be placed on top of the sheets and in between the layers. You may also put some blankets. Expect this to be a very messy area. Keep the room warm. Additional heat must be supplied to keep the newborn puppies warm. Many owners use heating pads, placed under a blanket. The optimal temperature is 85 F .Tips for Whelping What you should do when your dog gives birth? While this is a natural process of life, an owner should never make an attempt to go this alone. You must prepare yourself: Trim your nails very short, file them so that they are smooth Take all rings off of your fingers Put on clothes that you have no problem with throwing away afterwards Your Boxer will not want to eat right before she is ready. Do not try to force feed her. Keep all other pets, especially a male dog, out of the room. Allow her to lay down in the whelping box. Contractions will begin. Do not panic if your Boxer cries while giving birth; this is natural although a bit heartbreaking. Keep in mind that it is temporary. Do not attempt to give her any medication. As each puppy begins to crown, be ready in case you need to help pull them out. If you do, your grasp but be firm yet gentle. If a part of the puppy is showing, hold on to it so that it is not pulled back in. Allow nature to work, but if a pup is truly stuck you will then need to step in and help. Each of the Boxer puppies will have a thin sac surrounding them and will be attached by the umbilical cord. Normally, the dam will tear away the sac, bite the cord and lick the puppy. If she does not do this, it is time to step in. Carefully remove the sac, using sterilized thread cut the cord by tying the thread around it and pulling on each end. Rub the puppy to stimulate blood flow and breathing. If the puppy has difficulty making it to the dam, help him or her reach her to suckle. Your Boxer's veterinarian should have been able to tell you how many puppies were due. However, to make sure, after what you believe is the last puppy to come out, feel your Boxer's stomach. You should be able to feel if there is another pup inside. Once the last puppy has been born, remove the mess. Take away the sheets until you have a clean area. Lay down more blankets. Allow both dam and puppies to be left alone. Do not try to cuddle a newborn puppy. His or her place must be with the dam. The dam will be producing colostrum during the first few days. This is a highly nutritional fluid that supplies the puppies with antibodies to fight against infection and disease. Keep an eye out for any puppy who does not seem to be getting this nutrition. Your Boxer may not want to eat right after giving birth. Allow her a day or 2 to get back into an eating schedule. She should have a rather big appetite during the time that the pups are suckling. When to Call the Vet - Emergency Situations While we all hope that the birth of puppies happens without complications, one must be prepared in the case of emergency. Your Boxer's veterinarian should be called when your dog is about to deliver. It is so much better to be safe than sorry. Black Boxers - There are certainly Boxer dogs that appear to be black. However, bloodlines suggest that this color cannot exist in the breed. Photos and information. Boxers have large heads, even before birth. In addition, some bitches give birth early. Recognizing the signs of impending birth are key to a healthy birth for the bitch and the pups. Take your dog to the veterinarian. Your vet is your best ally in a healthy birth. You should take the dog after mating to ensure that it is pregnant. Around 40 or 50 days after mating, your vet should order an x-ray of the developing pups. The vet will help you count the number of heads so that you know how many pups are in the litter. As the puppy develops, it lays calcium in the bones. The more calcium in each bone, the clearer it shows up in the x-ray. According to Phi Vestavia, a U. If enough calcium is present in the legs to see the tibia, then the puppies may be born in 48 hours. These times are not hard and fast rules. The health of the bitch and puppies can alter the time frame. Measure the dogs food after eating. According to Belire Boxers, a U. Prior to going into labor, the boxer will become restless. It may go to the prepared whelping box, tear the paper or bedding material, and form a nest for the birth. The dog may shiver or pant as its body prepares for labor Tips Look at the x-ray with your vet. It is very difficult to determine individual bones when the dog is pregnant with several puppies. The vet will also look for any stillborn or stunted pups that may pose a birth risk for the mother or puppies. Warnings Call the vet if the dog seems to be in distress, goes through all the signs of labor with no result or you have any questions. Tips Look at the x-ray with your vet. Items You Will Need. Step 1 Develop a timeline for whelping. Dogs typically gestate for 63 days, but larger breeds such as boxers may whelp a day or two early. Step 2 Schedule your female for a pre-whelping exam at least 10 days prior to the whelping date. Your vet will examine your dog to make sure she is healthy and will tell you how many puppies to expect. Step 3 Prepare the whelping area the week before your dog is due. Select a quiet room, such as an extra bedroom or guest bathroom. The pool makes an excellent whelping box, since it allows the female to climb in and out but keeps the puppies inside. Erect a heat lamp over one side of the pool to keep the newborn litter warm when the mother gets up to eat or take a potty break. Step 4 Observe your boxer carefully for the first stage of labor. Your dog may pace, dig and circle around in the whelping box to prepare a safe nest for the impending puppies. Boxers tend to be a little nervous during labor, so clear the room of any other pets and people. Step 5 Watch your dog for signs that labor is advancing. The dog may lay down and get up repeatedly, pant, pace or lick her vulva as she starts having contractions. You may be able to see her abdomen tighten and relax in increasingly frequent waves as the contractions increase. Step 6 Stand clear of the whelping box as your boxer starts to deliver. The first puppy will appear with the thin placental membrane still covering its body. The female should break the sac and lick the puppy clean to stimulate breathing. Tear it gently with clean hands and rub the puppy with a dry towel. Step 7 Wait for your boxer to bite the umbilical cord before moving the puppy under the heat lamp. Snip the cord with a pair of sharp scissors and dab a little iodine over the cord to prevent infection. Step 8 Monitor the remainder of the birthing process. The female may rest slightly between puppies but should not take more than 60 minutes to deliver the next puppy. Boxers have very angular pelvises, and puppies may get stuck in the birth canal. If your dog appears to be straining with no evidence of another puppy coming, or in any distress, call your veterinarian immediately. More Articles. Abstract Background Dystocia occurs more commonly in some breeds of dogs than others. The Boxer breed is one of the highrisk breeds for whelping problems. The aim of this study was to document some reproductive parameters and the frequency of dystocia in Boxers. Methods Two questionnaires were sent to the breeders of Boxers in Sweden during to .Data from whelpings and pups was received, which constitutes .Data was analysed using Chi-square test, and Fischer's exact test. Caesarian section was performed in .The dystocia was of maternal origin in .Dystocia increased with increasing age of the bitch from four years of age. Average litter size was 6. Stillbirths accounted for 6. Cryptorchidism was observed in 9. Conclusion The Boxer suffers a high frequency of dystocia, mainly due to uterine inertia, but also fetal malpresentation. Breeders should be adviced to include easy whelpings in their breeding program. Background Dystocia is defined as difficult birth or the inability to expel the fetus through the birth canal without assistance. Traditionally, dystocia is classified as being of either maternal or fetal origin, or a combination of both. The overall incidence of dystocia in the bitch is probably below 5 per cent, but it may amount to almost per cent in some breeds of dogs, especially those of the achondroplastic type and those selected for large heads [ 1 , 3 - 7 ]. Gill [ 5 ], studying 15 breeds of dogs found dystocia to vary in frequency from 9. Eneroth et al. Uterine inertia is by far the most common cause of dystocia in dogs. It is classified into primary and secondary inertia. Primary complete uterine inertia is the failure of the uterus to begin labor at full term. Primary partial uterine inertia occurs when there is enough uterine activity to initiate parturition but it is insufficient to complete a normal birth of all fetuses, in the absence of an obstruction. Primary inertia can also be due to that the uterus fails to respond to the fetal signals because there are only one or two pups and thus insufficient stimulation to initiate labor the single-pup syndrome or because of overstretching of the myometrium by large litters, excessive fetal fluids, or oversized fetuses. Other causes of primary inertia may be an inherited predisposition, nutritional imbalance, fatty infiltration of the myometrium, age-related changes, deficiency of neuro-endocrine regulation, or systemic disease in the bitch. Secondary uterine inertia implies that some fetuses have been delivered while the remaining ones are left in utero due to exhaustion of the uterine myometrium caused by obstruction of the birth canal; this condition should be clearly distinguished from primary inertia [see [ 6 ]]. The Boxer breed is known to have a high risk for dystocia [ 5 , 8 ]. The Swedish Boxer Club, therefore, sent a questionnaire [See Additional file 1 ] to all the Swedish Boxer breeders registering a litter of pups in and , asking for details about the bitch's oestrous cycle, the mating and the whelping and about the development of the pups until the time of delivery to the new owners at 8 weeks of age. An unexpectedly high frequency of Caesarean sections was discovered and this prompted a follow-up survey [See Additional file 2 ] for the years and , with more detailed questions about the parturitions and the pups. The Club then turned to the Division of Reproduction at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Uppsala for help to investigate the nature and cause of the whelping problems of the Boxer breed in order to improve their breeding program and reduce the risk for dystocia in this breed. Methods The questionnaires The two questionnaires were sent to all the breeders that registered a litter of Boxer pups with the Swedish Kennel Club between and .Breeders of litters registered in and received a version [See Additional file 1 ] wich contained questions about the oestrous cycle of the bitch and the mating, the course of the parturition, and about the pups during the period from birth to delivery to the new owners. Breeders that registered litters during and received another version [See Additional file 2 ] in which the questions were more concentrated around the whelping as such. The questionnaires were distributed to the breeders in June , and in July , respectively. In 22 cases the breeders were also contacted over the telephone by the authors for further clarifications. The oestrous cycle of the bitch Questions about the oestrous cycles of the bitches were included in the first questionnaire and have been compiled without further analysis. The age of the bitch at the time of whelping The age of the bitch at the time of whelping was calculated based on the year of registration of the bitch with the Swedish Kennel Club and the year of whelping. If the bitch's kennel prefix indicated that it was imported and, thus, registered with the Swedish Kennel Club as an adult, the year of birth was checked and used for the calculation of the bitch's age at whelping. Definition of dystocia Bitches considered by their owners to be in need of veterinary treatment during whelping were, in this study, defined as suffering from dystocia. Duration of the whelping In this study the duration of the whelping has been defined as the time from the birth of the first pup until the birth of the last pup. Classification of uterine inertia Based on the breeders' information, bitches which had not produced any pup and for which no information was given to indicate that the first water bag had burst at the time of admission to the veterinary clinic, were classified as suffering from primary total uterine inertia. Bitches that had given birth to at least one pup before needing veterinary assistance, as well as those in which the first water bag had burst but no pup had been produced, were classified as suffering from primary incomplete uterine inertia. The litters Information about the number of litters, registered pups and the sex distribution was obtained from the Kennel Club registry from the years to .As the two questionnaires differed slightly for instance regarding the sex distribution among the pups which was only included in the second questionnaire and because not all breeders answered all the questions, the calculations have been based on those litters for which all the necessary information was available. Cryptorchidism Cryptorchidism is a common defect in the Boxer breed and was therefore included in the surveys. Breeders tend to believe that cryptorchidism is more common in litters containing many male pups, and consequently we also wanted to study whether the number of pups and the sex distribution had any influence on the incidence of cryptorchidism in the litters. Statistical methods Chi-square test was used to analyse relations between the discrete variables. When the values in the cells were too low for this test to be applicable, Fischer's exact test was used. A Chi-square trend analysis was used to look at the relation between a discrete variable and another discrete ordinal variable. To analyse pup death rates for parturitions of different durations we used a hypothesis test that compared two proportions. Results Out of a total of Boxer litters registered by the Kennel Club during the years of the study, .The recorded whelpings were out of individual bitches, mated to different males. For of the bitches there is only information about one litter each, whereas 47 bitches gave birth to two litters and six bitches to three litters each during the period of study. The study includes pups born and that were registrered with the Kennel Club. You see our two legged children are all grown, or mostly grown, and we are pretty much empty-nesters. Our dogs have become much like our kids and they have actually given us grand-puppies, unlike our adult offspring. She is a four year old AKC registered Boxer and not only did people comment on how pretty she is, and what a nice confirmation she has, but total strangers come up to us and remark on how gentle and calm she is for a Boxer. Nope, not Leah. People in our town would randomly come up to use when we took her for a walk and ask us if you ever breed her we would be very interested in a puppy. Choosing a Stud Dog The first thing we did was bring her to the vet had have a health exam, make sure she was current on all her shots, and get x-rays for hip dysplasia. I wanted a match for her that complimented her coloring, body style and most of all her personality. We were looking for a gentle male and a breeder family that had the same goals of matching pups to families who would appreciate the Boxer breed and personality. Theo and Leah We found Theo online yes doggie computer dating and in January, before Leah went into heat, we visited his home and introduced the dogs. It was a doggie match made in heaven. The Surghoe family lives on an acreage in central Nebraska and have two young boys who are VERY involved in caring for the dogs and have the main job of socializing puppies. We compared papers, which in our case was really important because Leah was born about 40 miles away, and found no relation. We also inspected each others health records. One particular person who had shown and bred champion Boxers even felt the need to message me privately and complement me on Leah and her head confirmation and was very impressed with Theo as well. They too had fallen in love with her. She has her bed on the floor by my head. Supplies For Birthing Puppies.

This may vary depending on availability, payment method, location and other factors beyond our control. Close Additional shipping costs may apply. Product description Dry food for adult German Shepherd dogs and Belgian Shepherd dogs, with a breed-specific recipe enriched with L-carnitine, glucosamine and chondroitin to support joints, muscles and overall health. The German Shepherd is one of the world's best-known dog breeds and is popular as a working dog or service dog as well as making a loyal family companion. This Eukanuba German Shepherd Adult is a great choice for a complete dry food, tailored to the unique nutritional needs of the breed. This dry food is intended as daily complete nutrition from the age of 1 year old and is also suitable for Belgian Shepherd dogs. Eukanuba German Shepherd Adult provides your pet with all the essential nutrients it needs for good health, such as plenty of animal protein to help build and maintain strong muscles. This kibble is also enriched with prebiotics and beet pulp to ensure good digestive function, and contains beneficial ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin and L-carnitine. Additives per kg: Nutritional physiological additives: Vitamin A 44, IU , vitamin C 56mg , vitamin D3 IU , vitamin E mg , beta carotene 5mg , L-carnitine 50mg , copper sulfate pentahydrate 14mg , potassium iodide 2. Flavourings: Organic rosemary extract 17mg , tea extract 8. Contents contained at the time of manufacture. Analytical constituents. German Shepherd Information. The German Shepherd Dog is well proportioned and very strong. The GSD has a sturdy, muscular, slightly elongated body with a light, solid bone structure. The head should be in proportion to its body, and the forehead a little rounded. The nose is most often black, however, blue or liver still do sometimes occur, but are considered a fault and cannot be shown. The teeth meet in a strong scissors bite. The dark eyes are almond-shaped, and never protruding. The ears are wide at the base, pointed, upright and turned forward. The ears of puppies under six months may droop slightly. The bushy tail reaches below the hocks and hangs down when the dog is at rest. The front legs and shoulders are muscular and the thighs are thick and sturdy. The round feet have very hard soles. There are three varieties of the German Shepherd: double coat, plush coat and longhaired coat. The coat most often comes in black with tan, sable or all black, but also can come in white, blue and liver, but those colors are considered a fault according to most standards. A piebald color has also occurred in a single GSD bloodline that is now being called a Panda Shepherd. Additional Information.

Stick to softer surfaces, like grass and dirt paths, while your pup is young and their bones are not fully fused. Most GSD owners simply want to take train their puppy to walk on a leash in the neighborhood and park without getting pulled down the street. There are three basic ways to communicate how you want your German Shepherd puppy to walk on a leash with you: the stopping method, the turning method, and the luring method. The Stopping Method Open the door, but only open the door if your dog is sitting. This step could take some time and practice. Once you both are out the door, have your dog sit again. You need to lock the door and your dog needs to sit for this. During your walk, have your dog sit for you at various times. When he does offer a tasty, high value, quick-to-eat treat. Now immediately start walking again and give the release cue. Stand still and wait until he sits. This could take a while. This is important, especially because one day your little pup will be large enough to injure you if they pull you along on the walk wildly! This will take lots of time and patience. But setting a strong and obedient walk foundation allows you to enjoy your walks more and maintain control over your large breed dog as they mature and grow stronger. The Turning Method Use the same steps as above to get outside your house and begin your walk, except instead of stopping and waiting on your dog, turn in the opposite direction and begin walking the other way. Quietly turn around and guide them along when they get a few steps ahead of you. You may also tire of turning. But stick with it. Either of these techniques takes plenty of patience and a strong mental character. But your dog loves to learn. Their mind is like a sponge at this young age, but they also lack obedience skills and an attention span. Use treats and toys to get your dog to follow you. The Treat Luring Method: Hold the treat at their eye level in front of them so they can see and smell the treat. Take one or two steps forward, having them follow the treat with their nose and eyes. They will probably keep following the treat. She loves them! Take a couple of steps forward while squeaking the toy. As they follow, keep stepping forward and squeaking the toy. After a few successful steps forward, let them play with the toy as their reward. Keep up this game to motivate them to follow you. Eventually, your dog gains confidence in their new surroundings and with your help and will walk on their own. Never allow your dog to run loose near traffic. Never unleash your dog in a new area. Never allow your dog to eat objects found on the ground. They could be poisonous! Never think a person running or someone on a bicycle sees your little pup. Puppies are quick moving and can dart in front of a moving person causing them to trip and fall. This can also injure your dog as they may fall on top of them or kick or step on them. Pup is distracted Remember that being outside with your dog is equivalent to you going to Disney Land! Give them a chance to develop their attention skills, or use the high value treats to make them pay attention to you. If you are limited in the places you can go, choose different routes so your dog gets to experience new smells and sights. The dog looks stressed or afraid Find quieter areas to walk in or use the lure and reward method to help them overcome their walking fears. Carry them home and end your walk. Next time, go a shorter distance and take less time. Use positive training and rewards to communicate. The best walking setup for a puppy is a no-pull harness that connects at two different points in the front and back. No-pull harnesses are great for introducing your puppy to structured walks while keeping them safe and happy. Need More Manners Training? Your GSD needs to learn more than just walking nicely. He also needs to learn all the basics of obedience. Use this free training guide to get started today! This activity is usually one of the longest and hardest to teach since you are competing with the sights and smells of the great outdoors! Stay patient, positive, and stick to your training. Your doggie will love you for it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. I will mention two of the main ones below. If it knows or if it thinks that you might be walking it to the park then it will want to get there more quickly and this can lead it to pulling on the leash. To correct this behavior it will be necessary to do lots of the stopping and redirecting training methods described in the section below. If it notices that there is a squirrel out in front or another dog then it will cause it to pull on the leash. How to get your German Shepherd to stop pulling on the leash There are a number of things that you can do to get your German Shepherd to stop pulling on the leash that I will mention below. Change direction An effective way to get your German Shepherd to stop pulling on the leash that has worked for many people is to change direction whenever it is about to pull on the leash. By doing this you will be able to get it to put its focus onto you and it will teach it that pulling on the leash will not get it where it is going more quickly. When you change direction, do so by walking up next to it and turn around with your German Shepherd by your inside leg. You can also change direction randomly to get it to pay attention to you. By doing this you will teach it that you are the one that decides where you are going and at what speed. Stop moving Instead of changing direction when it starts pulling, you can simply stop moving when it starts pulling. To do this simply stop moving as soon as it begins to pull and get its attention on to you. To get it to focus on you try telling it to sit and stay and then reward it for doing so. You can watch the video below to see how this method is done. By doing this you will be able to positively reinforce the behavior. By doing this you will be able to minimize distractions and to keep its focus on you. This is why many dog trainers prefer to do the redirect or the stopping methods. To prevent this pulling you can try teaching it to sit and stay while being distracted. Start indoors then do it outside. I have written about this more in depth in the past here. Instead, you should make sure to continue to train your German Shepherd over the long term once you start. Related Questions How to train a German Shepherd to walk on a leash beside you? Get your German Shepherd to walk next to you on the side of the pavement that is furthest away from cars. Then when it starts pulling change direction by getting beside your German Shepherd and turning while keeping your Shepher next to your inside leg. Doing this will get it to keep its attention on you and not to pull ahead. If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link. While this is the primary reason why your German Shepherd pulls on the lead, there are other specific causes that can make your dog pull on the leash. So, if your GSD was never trained to stop this behavior and walk on a loose lead, pulling on the lead can seem the most natural thing for your dog when he needs to get where he wants. After all, no one told him it was not ok to pull on his leash! Your German Shepherd Takes the Lead in Walks If your German Shepherd has assumed the lead role by walking ahead of you during your daily walkies, it is highly likely that he will pull on the leash when he wants to go faster or change direction towards something that interests him. Just by walking ahead of you and regularly pulling on the lead, the leash-pulling behavior is rewarded and reinforced. Your German Shepherd will learn this as acceptable behavior. Your German Shepherd is Excited About a Destination If your German Shepherd knows where you are going and is excited about getting there, he may pull on the lead to make you hurry up. It could be a visit to his preferred dog park, where he meets and interacts with other dogs, or a dog amusement park. This is why your German Shepherd might anticipate your destination by referring to past times and actions before a walk and get excited about heading to the place. There Are Distractions in the Surroundings German Shepherds are originally herding dogs with a strong prey drive. If you are taking your daily walk and your German Shepherd notices a squirrel or other small animals crossing your path, his natural instinct to pursue the prey can be ignited, causing your dog to start pulling on the leash. Distractions that could cause your German Shepherd to pull on the lead could also come from the presence of people, other dogs, or an enticing sound or smell. If you are taking a walk and moving at a chameleon pace, your German Shepherd will find it hard to walk at this pace and may decide to pull on the leash to tell you that you are too slow for him. This is especially true if your dog does not have alternative exercises to spend his energy on. Considering the above leash-pulling causes, your next question is likely how to stop a German Shepherd from pulling on the leash. Choosing the right leash and collar for your German Shepherd is an important step in preventing them from pulling on the leash during walks. Additionally, using the wrong type of collar or leash can cause discomfort or even injury to your dog, which can make them more resistant to leash training in the future. To choose the right leash and collar for your German Shepherd, start by considering their size, strength, and behavior. A strong, active dog may require a sturdier leash and collar than a smaller, less active dog. For dogs that tend to pull on the leash, a no-pull harness or head collar may be a better option than a traditional collar or leash. When selecting a leash, consider the length and material. A shorter leash may provide more control over your dog, while a longer leash may allow them more freedom to explore. Nylon leashes are a popular choice for their durability and affordability, but leather leashes may be more comfortable for your hands and provide a more classic look. Train your German Shepherd in reliable recall. Keep your German Shepherd engaged while walking. Exercise your German Shepherd before the walk. Do relaxation training before the walk. Perpetuate loose leash walking with rewards. Once learned, you should reinforce this behavior consistently. Puppy training should start as soon as you get your new pup, usually around 8 weeks. There are various methods of loose leash walking training you can choose from. Here, I discuss the lure and reward as a method you could consider to retrain your German Shepherd in loose leash walking. Lure and Reward Loose Leash Walking Training As the name suggests, the idea with the lure and reward method is to lure your German Shepherd into stopping lead pulling and instead walk on a loose leash by offering a reward each time he does it. Follow these steps to train your German Shepherd in loose leash walking using the lure and reward method: Have your German Shepherd stand next to you on your left side. Use a familiar word cue to direct your GSD to start walking with you. As your dog walks next to you, give him a treat every few minutes and praise him for walking close to you. As soon as your German Shepherd pulls on the leash, stop walking and stand firm in your position. Your dog will then come closer, and the leash will be slack. If he does not come back to you, call him back. Reward your pup for walking next to you every few steps so he begins to associate loose leash walking with rewards. Repeat the drill daily and increase the distance walked each day until your dog is no longer pulling on the leash. With time, your doggo should walk on a loose leash without any luring. However, sustain the habit of giving a treat now and then while you walk to firm the behavior. Watch this video to give you an idea of how powerful the lure and reward method can be in making your German Shepherd focus on you and stay close to you. Training your German Shepherd to reliable recall is especially beneficial when leash pulling is caused by distractions in the surroundings or by prey chasing. Follow these steps: Take your German Shepherd for a walk and stay keen to notice your dog being distracted by noises, smells, or small animals. This makes your GSD associate coming to you with good things. You can vary the situations from walks to park visits and other places where people or other dogs can serve as sources of distractions and make your GSD pull on the lead. Whether you have a puppy or an older GSD you are most likely going to have to train your German Shepherd not to pull on leash. Leash pulling with German Shepherds is often a result of their curious nature compounded with their high energy. This is especially true in new environments where they tend to get over-stimulated wanting to sniff and survey everything around them. I know from experience that the more excited your dog is to walk the more pulling is going to occur. When Allie was a puppy the beginning of walks were like a pulling festival. However, once we got toward the middle of the walk and she was less excited she walked next to me naturally without any hassle. Their size makes a difference because this task gets more and more difficult the heavier they get. The most ideal time to engage in leash training is after exercise or active play. This is when your GSD has already expended excess energy and is going to better listen and focus. As per my example in the beginning of the article, if I had tried to leash train puppy Allie before her walk when she was all excited and worked up, both she and I would have gotten frustrated. But after her walk she was much calmer because her energy had been expended so it was easier to get the desired behavior from her. Home is a familiar environment that is less likely to get your GSD as excited as another new location. The key is that you want to minimize new things that will distract and over-stimulate your German Shepherd during training. A flat collar would be most comfortable for your German Shepherd. I prefer a belt-type flat collar because a clip-type collar might break under substantial tension. However, there are many other types of collars to consider depending on your needs. For your leash, select a sturdy one that feels comfortable in your hand and is comfortable to grip tightly. The ideal length of an everyday walking leash is 4 to 6 feet for most people. Get them over that excitement before starting your training sessions. Allie walks on my left side. The side closest to your dog will be your treat hand and the other would be your leash hand. Capture their interest by getting them to sniff the treat and then slowly walk a few steps to see if they will follow. If they do, give them the treat and praise them for doing a good job! Do this a few times and let them realize that yummy treats come when they walk with you. Another tip is whenever your dog starts to pull, change directions. For example, if you are walking to the left and your dog starts to pull turn and walk to the right. This tactic shifts their attention and refocuses your GSD on walking with you. Gradually increase the steps after the heel command as you dog gets the idea. Once your dog can heel for steps, increase it to steps, and so on. You can test this by holding a treat in your leash hand and then no treat in what used to be your treat hand. If the pup walks nicely beside you, treat them using your leash hand. Continue practicing this and gradually build up distance. Whenever your GSD attempts to pull, stop walking completely, and repeat the command. Set longer and longer distances and praise them for each milestone. Final Thoughts Teaching your German Shepherd to walk nicely on a leash is by no means a quick and easy task. Just be patient and enjoy the process. Once you perfect the walking behavior, you can safely and enjoyably engage in many other activities with your dog. Here are a couple of good videos that demonstrate how to train your dog not to pull on a leash:. When choosing equipment for your German Shepherd puppy, it is best to start simple. Fit your pup for a nylon or leather collar that you can adjust as she grows. The exception is a harness with a strap across the front of the chest. Another option is a head collar that fits a dog similar to a horse halter. Head halters are best left to professional trainers as dogs may have difficulty adjusting , and improper use can cause great discomfort for your pet. Approach your dog to connect a leash rather than call her to you. Be prepared with plenty of treats or favorite toys because leash training requires constant reinforcement. Some trainers do not believe in food treats, but you need some kind of powerful incentive. According to most sources, including a blog by Petmeds. Adjust the collar if possible, so it does not feel tight across your fingertips. Similar to the collar, the leash should also be simple. Unless your puppy chews excessively on his leash, you can use one of leather, nylon, rope, or plastic. For heavy chewers who you cannot deter, you can use a chain lead. Keep in mind a lightweight material will be less distracting for a small puppy. The most effective length for your first leash is about six feet. You will eventually need a short lead also of about three feet. Begin leash training in a controlled environment You can start leash training your Shepherd as soon as she arrives home at eight to twelve weeks. Most of your initial work should focus on making your pup comfortable with a collar or harness and leash. Indoors There are a few reasons you should initiate leash training indoors. Your house is a safe area with well-established, clear boundaries As a training venue, your home will have the fewest distractions. Allow your pup to drag the leash When you initiate leash training, your primary goal for young puppies should be to help them get used to have something attached to their collars. Once you snap on the leash, allow your pup to walk around or even play. You can allow your pup leash time for 10 to 15 minutes at a time two or three times a day. Your pup can have some of his leash sessions in an enclosed yard as well. We recommend you only attach the leash for no more than 10 minutes at a time in the beginning and never leave your pup unsupervised. Your pup could destroy the leash by chewing, or worse, entangle himself in it or wrap it around furniture or some other object. Finally, leash work is mentally challenging for pups. Take advantage of skills your puppy learns in fun activities like fetch or remedial bite work and use them in your leash training. The first few lessons, especially, are exercises in persistence, each session marked by gradual improvement. Eventually, your pup should accept the leash as an extension of her collar. Walk your German Shepherd pup around the house Your puppy can learn a lot about walking on a leash in the safety of your home. After you have allowed your puppy to drag the leash for a few days, she may throw a tantrum when you pick up the end and try to lead her. If your puppy resists the restriction picking up her leash causes, simply remain still until she stops fighting. Reward her immediately when she relaxes. You may need to repeat the process numerous times as she may balk at any tension you put on the leash. Avoid jerking on the leash, pulling against your dog, or applying constant and unyielding tension. Pulling on your dog will only make her jerk against you with greater force. You may have found out the hard way that you rarely win a pulling contest against your dog even if you can drag her several feet across the floor. When your pup seems ready, walk him for short periods around the house just as you would outside. At first, do not worry about obedience to the leash. Reward your pup any time he allows the leash to go slack or whenever he looks toward you for direction. Also, reward him for walking at your side. Give your dog direction and purpose by tossing treats in various locations throughout the home, allowing your puppy to sniff them out and eat them on your walk. Random treats will keep your puppy in a good frame of mind, relaxed about the leash, and interested in the task at hand. It is time to go out in the yard With consistent and positive leash work, your puppy will be ready to expand her range beyond your home in a relatively short time. Your next stepping stone for leash training should be an enclosed outdoor area. Despite the fact you are working in a fenced-in space, you should teach your puppy that every training session is like a normal walk. Once your puppy is as comfortable with the leash outdoors as he was in the house, start incorporating more obedience and additional structure into your exercises. Your yard or other designated areas will provide security for your puppy, but there will be more distractions than there were inside. Again, persistence and positive reinforcement will keep your puppy on track to becoming a pleasant walking companion. There are a few times when it is beneficial to walk your dog on your fenced-in property as opposed to in public. Young puppies — Puppies have an underdeveloped immune system, leaving them susceptible to viruses prevalent in the environment like Parvo. They do not typically complete their vaccination series until the age of 12 to 16 weeks, and initial boosters do not completely protect them. You should isolate a very young puppy from potential exposure to viruses. Uneducated dog — You do not want to walk a dog without leash knowledge outside of an enclosure. German Shepherds who do not walk well on a leash can injure your arm by pulling or yanking, get away from you, or injure themselves. Social skills on a leash make your pet safer. Aggression — Leash training in an enclosed area will help you avoid confrontations with people and other dogs if your pet is aggressive. While muzzling your dog in public is an option, it does not prevent any underlying aggression and associated stress. What are a few proven methods for leash training German Shepherd puppy? What are the basic leash skills? Your German Shepherd puppy should learn a few basic skills before you attempt to leash walk her in public. When you initially go outside your yard, choose familiar routes, If you know the path you are taking, it increases the security for your dog. As your puppy continues to master leash walking, you can eventually start venturing on new routes, increasing the novelty. It is also about this time that we recommend moving to a short, stiff leash to begin training heel. A short lead keeps your puppy near you, and a lack of flexibility in the material gives you better control. No lunging at people or other animals. Walk by your side — Teach your puppy not to switch from side to side as this is a serious problem that can cause you to trip and fall. Calm and confident demeanor without pulling your arm — A large, powerful dog like a German Shepherd who pulls relentlessly can cause serious injury to your shoulder and make you lose your balance. How do you eliminate your dog pulling on his leash? When you begin leash training in earnest, you should get a leash that is short but does not pull your puppy too tightly. Your puppy should always work from the left traditional or right side for consistency. One of the most effective ways to train your dog not to pull on her leash is to abruptly stop walking when she tugs on you. You do not need to pull or yank your dog towards you. Your pup will soon notice that you have stopped moving and she cannot go anywhere. When your GSD puppy notices you have stopped and looks in your direction, reward her with a treat. Resuming the walk is also a reward. Halting every time your puppy pulls on you at the end of her leash requires consistency and patience. Many puppies get into the bad habit of switching sides during a walk, often crossing right in front of you. You can address random changes in direction by making an about-face and reversing your path. Every time your puppy heads in a direction counter to your chosen line of travel, abruptly head opposite to where she wants to go. Your ultimate goal is to reward your dog when she allows the lead to go slack and make her work harder when she applies tension by going against you. Another method of training your puppy to walk politely by your side during walks is to use a type of carrot and stick maneuver. Hold a treat just in front of your dog while walking, and if she can maintain her position by your side for 10 feet, she gets the reward. You may have to shorten the distance in the beginning. What about advanced leash training? Although not suitable activities for puppies in their advanced stages, you can begin herding and agility training of your German Shepherd puppy with the aid of a long leash. We mainly aim to illustrate how effective leash training of a Shepherd as a puppy is the backbone to more advanced skills. Long Line Long-lining can be a nice addition to your leash training. The following two videos are examples of effective GSD leash training This video illustrates the use of a short leash and why German Shepherds make efficient police dogs. The most notable features are frequent praise, consistency, and persistence. Also, notice the trainer is using play as an incentive. In this case, the leash is only a backup because the puppy is so well-trained and engaged. Final thoughts The Causes of Leash Pulling Curiosity: Because it is by nature an energetic and inquisitive dog, your GSD will have a natural curiosity about everything around it think squirrels, birds, other dogs, people. Simple curiosity is a primary cause of constant leash pulling. Motion sensitivity: GSDs are herding dogs, and because of this, they are sensitive to motion. They instinctively direct their focus on anything that moves, as this is integral to moving and protecting herds of animals. This may cause them to pull on the leash just out of confusion and fear. Aggression: Some GSDs will not think twice about lunging at other dogs or people because their aggression has not been addressed through proper obedience training. Prior experience: In the event that you have adopted an adult GSD, they may pull on the leash to pursue something that may remind them of a past event in their lives. When should you begin leash training? Challenges may also arise because older dogs tend to be set in their ways. Old habits can be broken, but often take a considerable amount of effort. So it is ideal to begin leash training your GSD when it is a puppy, because when you train it at a young age it will take what it learns and apply it as it grows up. You should already have a plan to introduce leash training before you take your GSD puppy home. Avoid using collars that may harm or irritate your dog such as choke collars, metal chin collars, electronic collars, plastic collars, or pinch and prong collars. If you begin training your GSD as a puppy then it is not necessary to use these collars. These types of collars only become necessary if you are training an adult that has preexisting ingrained habits. Instead, for a puppy, simply use a standard inexpensive collar made from nylon or leather. This will be comfortable for your GSD and will not distract it from listening to you. Knowing that your GSD is a high energy dog, you should make sure to give it some exercise and some active playtime before you both go out for a walk. The more excited your GSD is to walk the more likely leash pulling will happen. Before taking a walk you should spend around 10 minutes of leash training in the house to remind your dog of the rules. Leash Training Methods Before you begin to leash train your dog, it is important that you plan to approach the training in an organized manner. Come up with a plan on regarding where you want to take your dog out for a walk. You want an open space that allows minimally for distractions. It is important to establish that you are the one in control of the walk, and not your GSD. Plan to stay calm while you train, and always expect some kind of setback when you first start training your GSD. Do not underestimate the importance of this. Here are some leash training methods that you can choose from. Remember that all dogs will react differently to each leash training method. Lure and Reward Method You will need a lot of treats for this method, so choose small ones, or break up larger treats. Offering your dog a treat is the easiest way to get its attention. The first step to take in the Lure and Reward method is to make sure your dog is standing at your side. It is up to you which side you want your dog to be positioned. Next, get out a treat and show it to your dog. Begin walking, and every 5 steps, if you see your dog walking at your pace, feed it a treat and tell your dog how good it is. If your dog starts pulling ahead then immediately stop walking. After your dog obeys resume walking again. Repeat the first three steps again. Slowly increase the number of steps you take in between the times you reward your dog. Reverse Direction Method Begin your walk outside with your dog like you normally would. When your dog starts pulling on the leash, turn away from your dog and change your direction. When your dog follows you in the new direction reward it with a treat and continue your walk in your original direction. When your dog pulls on the leash again, repeat the first two steps. The main point here is to teach your dog the difference between good and bad behaviors. When your dog completely understands that walking calmly by your side is good behavior reward it with a treat. Clicker Method If your dog is having trouble understanding your verbal cues in the beginning, then use a clicker to help. You can purchase a clicker at your local pet store. After your dog obeys a command, press the button on the clicker once. You only use the clicker to reinforce acceptable behavior. Calmly hold the clicker by your side. After your dog shows good behavior, reward it with a treat. It may take some extra time and persistence on your part, but you will still be able to use a clicker as an effective tool to leash train your dog. You may want to consider taking your dog to a class for clicker training. There you will receive support from other dog owners and your dog will witness other dogs responding correctly as well. This can work to give both you and your dog more confidence and to shorten the learning curve. Teach basic commands while your dog is leashed Keep the training of your GSD simple. When you give your dog verbal cues, keep them to a single word. With practice, your dog will recognize and obey your commands. Again, when training your GSD, keep everything simple. Always make sure the commands you give your dog are positive reinforcements. Be positive. Verbal Cues When you praise your German Shepherd for obeying your verbal cues, you should sound happy and reassuring. As time goes on and your dog gets comfortable with the basic commands, you can start introducing more advanced verbal cues. Tell your dog to sit and help them plant their bottom to the ground. Instead, you should take a step toward your dog and slightly lean over it. As you lean over your dog make sure it keeps eye contact with you. Begin by having your dog sit. Start walking away from your dog, but maintain eye contact with it while giving this cue. If your dog gets up at any point to follow you, go back to the beginning and have your dog sit again. Then repeat steps 1 and 2. Come This is a basic command that can be hard to teach if your dog is easily distracted. Start by letting your dog go wherever it wants. Give your dog a treat if it needs motivation in the beginning. When you tell your dog to come, gently tug on the leash. The tug is to get your dog to understand what this verbal cue means. As your dog returns to you have a treat prepared for it at the end of the leash. Give your dog time to understand how to come to you. Once your dog is comfortable with this command you can start removing the leash. Heel Having your dog heel means for it to walk right alongside you. Make sure that your dog stands close to your side, and that you both are facing the same direction. Once they make eye contact with you, take a couple of steps forward and then stop. If your dog moves with you and then stops when you stop, give it a treat. Your dog has successfully performed the heel. Final thoughts The mindset of a German Shepherd can be instilled or even changed as long as you have the proper mindset for leash training. It is up to you to balance the system for rewarding and punishing your dog. Once your dog is confident and comfortable listening to you, your walks together will be a joy. With patience and time you will see your hard work come to fruition.

Search Close this search box. It's always tempting to pick up your cuddly Frenchie and most of the time, they don't mind it. But since they have fragile bodies, you should know how to pick them up the right way. Table of Contents Does your Frenchie love to cuddle? Chances are, they do. And for you to do this, sometimes you need to lift them. But there are many carrying habits you need to unlearn. Carrying Frenchies by the scruff, for example, is bad for them. Many of these habits cause them a lot of pain. How to Pick Up a French Bulldog It may be tempting to pick up your Frenchie whenever you want since they are very cuddly. But there are dangers to carrying them the wrong way. To make sure you are not hurting them, here is how you should pick them up. This way, they will not squirm around and risk hurting themselves. Doing this often will also help them learn what the verbal cue means. So next time, they get to prepare themselves before you pick them up. Your hand should be between his front legs and on his chest. With your free hand, scoop your Frenchie underneath again. This time, you should lift their hind legs. Make sure you tuck your arm under their legs and rear end. After that, you can slowly lift them. Stay calm during the whole process since they tend to mirror your mood. Your Frenchie will get used to this the more you pick them up. As long as you make this a positive experience for them, this should be a breeze! The method above is great for lighter dogs who are 25 lbs 11 kg and below. Some Frenchies are heavier than this and there is another way you can carry them. Secure Their Arms Using both your arms, grab their forelegs and hind legs from their front and back. This will look like you are hugging them from the side. Then with your hand, clutch the legs that are facing away from you to secure your Frenchie. Hold Them Close This method does not feel very secure, so you need to keep your Frenchie close to your chest. If they are wriggling in this position, they may not like this. So you need to put them down before they break free and fall. Lift Them Up If your Frenchie stays calm, you can lift them gently. Not all Frenchies will like this method because it does not feel the best. So if your Frenchie is one of these, you may need to go back to the first method. Since puppies are lighter, another method works best for them. First, verbally let your Frenchie know that you are going to pick them up. Now, try to put your Frenchie pup into a carrying position. Use your dominant hand to go under them, placing it on their chest and between their front legs. Do the same with your other hand, but grab their hind legs this time. After this, you can lift your Frenchie puppy. Use your arm as a shelf that they can sit on. And hold them near your chest to secure them. Holding them close is crucial since they might fight their way out and accidentally fall. Frenchies are fragile, even more so when they are puppies. So a fall from this height could injure their paws. Using these will help you to stabilize their spines so that they will not get hurt. Carrying them by hand alone will not give them much support. Lifting a dog with back problems has a lot of things to consider. Sometimes, they will not let you get near them because they are in pain. So if your Frenchie has back problems , below is how you can make lifting them easier. Getting Ready Approach your Frenchie from the side with a calm voice to comfort them. Do not go near their mouth as they may try to bite you. Unfortunately, sometimes they do not understand that you are trying to help them. If your Frenchie is a bit aggressive due to the pain, you can use a muzzle to avoid nipping. Be sure to have their first aid kid ready in case this all goes south. This can be anything as long as it is big enough for its size. An ironing board, a cutting board, or whatever flat-surfaced item you may have at home. Place a few long strips of cloth under the board. Or you can also use a rope that is not very abrasive. Do not place the cloth or rope on the area of the board where their head will lie. Make sure your Frenchie is lying down on their side first. Then take them by placing one hand under their chest and another hand under his behind. Gently lift them and transfer them onto the board. Using the strips of cloth or rope, tie your Frenchie to the board. Make sure it is firm enough so they do not shuffle around. But it should not be tight enough to cause any discomfort. Now you can take your Frenchie to your car and go to the vet. Lay the blanket down on a flat surface first. With your Frenchie lying down on their side, put your hand underneath their chest. With your other hand, place it underneath their behind. Then lift them with care onto the blanket. Lift the blanket by grabbing the longer ends. This should be the ends by their head and their hind. Your Frenchie will look like they are on a hammock. But that is one of the many incorrect ways to carry them. Carrying them the wrong way is not only painful, but it can also cause your Frenchie injuries. So to prevent these from happening, here is how you should not handle your Frenchie. Not by the Collar Collars on Frenchies are not good in the first place. If you are walking your Frenchie on a collar and they tug on it a lot, it hurts their neck. You are doing the same thing by grabbing them by the collar. Remember that Frenchies have sensitive spines and necks. Any significant pressure that is constantly put on these can lead to IVDD. Not by the Legs Some dog owners like to grab their dogs by the leg. But never do this to your Frenchie. Not only is it very painful, but it can also damage their bone joints or disfigure them. Not by the Tail Frenchies may not have the height, but they may have the weight. Picking them up by their small tail is never a good thing. Doing this will put them in so much pain and can lead to serious issues. Not by the Scruff Holding puppies by the scruff is a common thing many people do. But this is a bad way of picking up Frenchies, no matter what their age is. This is another painful and irresponsible way of picking them up. Not only that, there is a risk of them slipping from your hand. If they fall, this can lead to injuring different parts of their body. Picking up your Frenchie is not bad as long as you do it properly. They may even love it since they are a very cuddly and affectionate breed. But part of loving your Frenchie back is to make sure that you are not causing them pain. So when picking them up, always remember that you should support their spine and neck. And never handle them by the collar, legs, tail, and scruff. If you do it the wrong way, it can lead to many serious issues. Dislocations, choking, injuries, and even IVDD. So while it is tempting to pick them up in a silly way, have their best interest always in mind. When your Frenchie yelps when you carry them, it is because they are either excited or are in pain. Unfortunately, most of the time it is the latter. The fact that you are reading this means that you are a responsible Frenchie owner. And being one means that you have to figure out what is causing their yelping. To give you a headstart, below are reasons why they yelp when picked up. They Are Showing Excitement Frenchies are one of the cuddliest dog breeds out there. They love it when they get your attention , and sometimes, they get too excited. So when you pick them up, they may yelp in joy. But it is crucial that you know when they are happy or are in pain. Cuddle away! They Got Scared If you have a Frenchie puppy, this is the more likely reason for their yelping. They are not used to getting picked up yet, so they will react in fear. That is why you need to have a verbal cue before picking them up. To lessen their agitation, make sure to approach them from their side so that they see you coming. Puppies will learn not to fear this after a while. In the meantime, practice picking them up and make these sessions short. An incorrect method can cause them great pain. This includes picking them up by the nail, scruff, legs, and collar. They Have Cramps With overexertion, your Frenchie can get muscle spasms and cramps. The good news is that this is temporary. Until then, your Frenchie will not enjoy getting lifted. This can make their backs and necks hurt, which makes it hard to pick them up. Anything from a slipped disc, ruptured disc, or a pinched nerve is an issue with their spine. If you suspect that your Frenchie has this, watch out for the following: Reluctance to Jump Their Head Hangs Low Slow Movements The best way to resolve this is to take your Frenchie to the vet as soon as possible. They Have an Infection Any skin infection or unusual growths is painful to the touch. If these are in areas where you touch your Frenchie when picking them up, they may yelp out of pain. They Have Musculoskeletal Problems If your Frenchie is older, their joints may weaken as a result of the aging process. Arthritis makes them sensitive to any movement, even when you pick them up. Frenchies can also develop certain health issues. They have a genetic predisposition to many health issues. Especially ones related to their skeleton. This includes hip dysplasia, a condition where the socket and ball of the joint do not align right. This is a painful health issue that hurts their quality of life. This condition occurs when their intervertebral disc ruptures, bulges, or slips. IVDD can cause mild to severe pain, and in extreme cases, paralysis. For a standard-sized adult Frenchie, a medium crate is ideal for them. Their crate should be 30 inches in length, 19 inches in width, and 21 inches in height mm x mm x mm. You will know that their crate is too small if their hind and nose touch the ends of the crate at the same time. Their crate should be big enough for them to sit, stand up, lie down, and stretch out without problems. But too big of a crate is also not a good idea as they will not treat it as one anymore. It will become their toilet area or their playpen, which defeats the purpose. So if your Frenchie is a nonstandard size, you need to measure them before buying a crate. Frenchies are a medium to small breed, so a medium-sized crate that is about 30 inches mm is best. But this is for standard Frenchies, and not all Frenchies are. There are mini or micro ones, or Frenchies that are larger than normal. So if your Frenchie is one of these, a medium crate may not work. You need to measure your Frenchie to find the perfect crate size for them. Below is how you can do this. Measure Your Frenchie Take your tape measure and make sure to measure your Frenchie in inches. You need two measurements, height, and width. Measure from the top of their head to the ground, this is their height. Find the Right Crate You need to add a few inches to these measurements for allowance. Add 4 inches mm to the height and add 6 inches mm to the width. So you may need to weigh your Frenchie as well in case you will need it. The first step in crate training Frenchies is to help them like it. A positive association with the crate is important to make the process smoother. To know how you can do this, keep on reading. It should be somewhere that does not disturb them, without much house traffic. But it should also not be somewhere that isolates them from the rest of the family. The best place would be a place where you spend a lot of time in. It can be in the living room, but you can put the crate in a corner. But do not worry, you can help them get comfortable with it by adding some finishing touches. One way is by placing their favorite toys or blanket inside the crate. You can also add in some treats to push them to go inside and explore their crate. Have Them Explore Their Crate For about 1 to 4 days, you should allow your Frenchie to explore their crate on their terms. Do not force them to go inside, have them do this on their own when they are curious. Also, you should leave the door open all the time for them to do this. Sometimes, they may make a fuss and bark at the crate. This is normal since they are still getting used to it being in your home. Leave them alone when they do and they should stop within a few minutes. Try to Close the Door After they get used to going inside the crate, close the doors behind them. Do this for a few moments and make sure they see it. Then open the door again right away. Do this for a few days, about 3 days. It may take you more time, but see how your Frenchie reacts. In those few days, gradually increase the time you shut the doors. Close the Door and Leave the Room If your Frenchie already got used to having the doors shut, try leaving the room this time. Stay out of their sight for a few minutes then come back. Increase the time that you leave them alone also. It takes about 10 days to crate train your Frenchie with success. Some Frenchies will need less than this, but some will take more time. Remember to make this a positive experience for them to be successful in crate training them. Adults can stay longer, but do not keep them in for more than 7 hours. This is how long they can hold their bladders. So if you leave them longer than that, expect an unpleasant surprise when you come back. May 5, French Bulldogs are cuddly and love to bond with their owners like any other dog breed. Unfortunately, most people think that Frenchies are too bulky and heavy to carry. However, that is not the case. If held right, your Bulldog will be comfortable, and so will you. As a first-time Frenchie parent, it may feel awkward to pick up and hold your Bulldog. This is normal and is an experience a lot of owners go through. The perfect recipe for holding your bulldog right is to make them comfortable and hold them properly. How to Properly Pick Up a French Bulldog French bulldogs love the attention you give them when you cuddle and spend time with them. Do French Bulldogs like to be picked up? Most French Bulldogs absolutely do like to be picked up as they love attention and affection. However, it is important to read the cues your Frenchie is giving you. Be sure to follow the instructions below to pick them up in the safest manner possible. However, you need to do this right to provide a comfortable environment for them. Here are a few pointers to help you pick up your Frenchie correctly. Therefore train your Frenchie to expect lifts by saying something each time before you pick them up. Keep your verbal cue simple and stick to one phrase each time to make it easier for your Bulldog to associate it with being picked up. Place Your Dominant Hand Under the Front Legs After your verbal cue, place your dominant and stronger hand under the front paws and ensure that your hand rests on the chest. Most people associate this with picking up a baby since it is pretty similar. Ensure that you do this right and secure your Bulldog to avoid chances of them falling off. Lift Them Gently Once you have securely held your Bulldog, you need to lift them gently to get you both comfortable with the process. After lifting your Bulldog, cradle them the same way you would a child to get them comfortable and relaxed. Once your Bulldog is comfortable in your arms, lift them slowly upwards with confidence and composure. When you successfully pick up your Frenchie, they will be more receptive and inclined to enjoy you picking them up. Remember, you need to be confident, relaxed, and follow the steps to ensure that you pick up your Frenchie right and build trust. Holding your Frenchie will help you do this and let it get more comfortable with you. The goal of picking up your Bulldog is to hold it comfortably for a while and give it the snuggly attention it requires. When holding your Bulldog, you can leave it in your arms or place it on your lap. However, remember that switching positions requires you to be gentle and support your Bulldog to avoid accidents. Going slow with your dog will help it ease into different holding positions. How to Pick Up and Hold an Aggressive French Bulldog When dealing with an aggressive Bulldog, accidents may be more prevalent since they will not be cooperative with your approach. However, if you are yet to train it, avoid picking and holding it all together and just play with your Frenchie. Doing this will help you avoid an incident where your Bulldog slips from your arms because of its restlessness. A great way to pick and hold an aggressive French Bulldog when needed is to ensure their feet are secure. Your priority should be to trap the legs in your laps to help avoid sudden movements. Doing this is a great strategy, especially when you need to take your Frenchie for Vet appointments. However, you should aim to avoid picking up an aggressive Bulldog until you successfully train it. Therefore, you should always aim to pick up your Frenchie correctly and avoid some mistakes that may seem harmless. The most common ways not to pick up your Frenchie include; By Their Scruffs Dogs tend to pick up their puppies by their scruffs and move with them with ease. When most people see this, it seems like something right, and they follow suit. However, picking up a Frenchie by its scruff can be painful. However, you can get away with picking up a puppy by its scruffs but not an adult Frenchie. Avoiding this practice will help you ensure that your French Bulldog experiences what is comfortable and relaxing. Using a Collar French Bulldogs are pretty sensitive in their necks and backs, so most people forego using collars. This is because if your Bulldog constantly tugs on the collar, it puts pressure on its neck and back and could result in some health conditions. Therefore, picking up your Frenchie using their collar should not be a viable option. It is dangerous since it cuts off the air supply and strangles your dog. By Their Tails Picking up a dog by its tail is something children would not find wrong and may do it often. Thankfully, most Frenchie have very short tails so it is less of a concern but you should still teach your children not to pull on their tail. Therefore, you need to teach your kids how to pick up and hold a bulldog correctly. Picking up a Frenchie by its tail can lead to dislocation and pain due to tampering with the muscle and nerves. The pain and dislocation may lead to difficulties in movement and the ability to relieve itself. By Their Legs or Underarms Lifting a French Bulldog by its legs or underarms can lead to dislocation , muscle problems, and mess with its ligaments. Therefore, you need to avoid picking up your Frenchie by their legs, which is common when dealing with other dogs. First, provide a safe space by picking up your Frenchie correctly each time to help it get comfortable and start looking forward to such moments. Then ensure that you gently switch holding positions to find what feels comfortable for you. Share on facebook. Pin 0 Shares This week we published a new video on the French Bulldog Owner YouTube channel subscribe for weekly updates which showed you how to pick up a Frenchie. You can see that video below which also comes in handy if you want to know the best way to hold a French Bulldog. How do you pick up a French Bulldog? Watch the video below to see how I do it. Give your Frenchie a verbal cue By using a verbal cue every time, you can get your Frenchie used to being held and picked up. Thread your stronger arm under the Frenchie and between the front two legs. Use your other arm under the back legs and backside Now with your remaining arm, go under the Frenchies lifting the back legs up and tucking your arm under the legs and backside. Hold your Frenchie properly with your other arm supporting the back legs and under the backside. The method outlined above is perfect for dogs that weigh 25 pounds and under. Do French Bulldogs like to be picked up? French Bulldogs love attention and cuddles, so most will not mind being picked up. However, each dog is different and the best way to make them comfortable with being held is practice and giving them a verbal cue before the lift. This and pulling up by the legs can also be very painful for a dog. It can lead to dislocations, strains, and ligament damage. Keep an eye on your children and teach them how to hold a French Bulldog properly when you first get a puppy. Being picked up by the tail can lead to intense pain due to muscle and nerve damage. Tail dislocations and injuries can even lead to a loss of movement and inability to go the toilet. Not only can it temporarily cut off the air supply and strangle the dog, it could also lead to damage to their trachea. Conclusion Holding your Frenchie incorrectly can be potentially risky. Approaching your French Bulldog calmly means taking things slow and steady. Making sudden movements or grabbing them suddenly can startle or stress them out, making it harder to pick them up in the future. Instead, approach your dog slowly and confidently, using a soothing tone of voice to reassure them. When it comes to lifting your French Bulldog, supporting their entire body weight is crucial. Using one hand to support their chest and front legs while using the other hand to support their hindquarters will keep them comfortable and safe. Avoid picking them up by the scruff of their neck or legs, as this can cause discomfort or even injury. Keeping one hand supporting their chest and front legs while using the other hand to support their hindquarters will distribute their weight evenly and prevent unnecessary strain on their joints. If they seem uncomfortable or agitated, it may be time to put them down or adjust your grip. Dogs are sensitive creatures that can pick up on our emotions quickly. Approaching with fear or anxiety can make them nervous or defensive. Getting down to their level, avoiding direct eye contact, and speaking in a soft and reassuring tone can help make the interaction more comfortable for both of you. If your French Bulldog seems nervous or uncomfortable, remember to give them some space and try again later. Forcing an interaction can lead to negative associations and make the process of picking them up more challenging in the future. Approaching your French Bulldog calmly is essential for building trust and ensuring a safe pick-up experience. Supporting Their Entire Body Weight One crucial aspect of this is learning how to carry them correctly, while supporting their entire body weight. To start, approach your French Bulldog calmly and confidently, making them feel secure in your arms. Lift them gently, keeping them close to your body to avoid any sudden movements that could cause them to panic. Bending or twisting their body can cause damage to their spine and lead to back problems. If you plan on carrying your French Bulldog for an extended period, consider using a supportive carrier or sling. This will distribute their weight evenly and prevent any strain on your arms or back. This will also help prevent any injuries or discomfort caused by improper handling. Proper handling of your French Bulldog is crucial for their overall well-being. As we mentioned before, make sure to cradle them calmly and confidently, supporting their entire body weight with one hand under their chest and the other under their hind legs while keeping their spine straight to prevent any damage. Once you have lifted your Frenchie, be sure to hold them in a way that keeps them secure and comfortable. Begin by providing support for their back and hind legs. Placing one hand under their chest and the other under their hindquarters will help distribute their weight evenly and provide support. Keeping your French Bulldog close to your body is also important as it provides them with a sense of security. Hold them against your chest or stomach to prevent them from squirming or falling out of your arms. Most importantly, avoid holding your Frenchie by their front legs or neck as this can cause discomfort or even injury. Instead, focus on supporting their body and letting them feel secure in your arms. If they seem uncomfortable or are struggling to get free, put them down gently and let them move around on their own. This ensures that they feel happy and can move freely. Before picking up your French Bulldog, observe their behavior for signs of stress such as panting, shaking, or growling. This will ensure that your furry friend feels safe and secure while being held. When approaching your French Bulldog, crouch down to their level and offer a treat or use a gentle tone of voice to reassure them. This will help build trust and make them feel more comfortable with you. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that may startle your dog; instead, take it slow and steady. When lifting your French Bulldog, always support their entire body weight. Place one hand under their chest and another hand under their hindquarters. Lift them slowly and smoothly while keeping them close to your body. Avoid lifting your dog by their legs or tail as this can cause injury. While holding your French Bulldog, continue to pay attention to their body language. If they start to squirm or wiggle, this may be a sign that they want to be put down. Similarly, if they become stiff or tense, they may be uncomfortable or scared. If you notice any of these behaviors, put them down gently and give them some space. Avoiding Injury and Discomfort French Bulldogs are some of the most beloved and charming pets around, but picking them up and holding them requires some extra care. This can cause unnecessary strain and discomfort, leading to potential injuries. Instead, you should always pick up your dog by supporting their chest and hindquarters with both hands. This technique distributes their weight evenly, preventing any undue stress on their limbs. As a brachycephalic breed, French Bulldogs have a shorter snout and narrower airways than other dogs. This can make it more difficult for them to breathe, especially when being held in certain positions. Some dogs may feel anxious or scared when lifted off the ground, particularly if they are not used to it. To help alleviate any stress or anxiety, you should approach your dog calmly and gently. Use positive reinforcement such as treats or praise to help them feel comfortable and secure in your arms. Here are some tips to make sure you do it right. Approach your Frenchie with confidence and calmness. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them. When picking up your Frenchie, use both hands to support their weight evenly. Place one hand under their chest and front legs while using the other hand to support their hindquarters. This will help prevent any strain or injury to their joints. Avoid lifting your Frenchie by their legs or tail as this can cause discomfort or even injury. Instead, focus on lifting them from their chest or under their front legs. Once you have lifted your Frenchie, hold them securely but gently. Use a firm grip that supports their whole body without squeezing too tightly. If they seem uncomfortable or restless, it may be time to put them down or adjust your grip. Avoid holding your Frenchie for too long as this can cause them discomfort or restlessness. Be mindful of their needs and give them breaks when necessary. Their distinct personalities capture our hearts and make us fall in love with them. Knowing how to pick them up properly and hold them safely is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind. Remember always to approach them calmly and confidently, support their entire body weight when lifting or carrying them, hold them securely but gently in a way that keeps them comfortable and safe while paying attention to their body language. You may also like:.

Breeds The link has been copied! Platinum French Bulldogs are a recent addition to the popular French Bulldog breed. They have grown in popularity recently because of their distinct color and eye-catching look. These dogs have a silvery shine to their coats that distinguishes them from other Frenchie breeds. In this post, we will look into what distinguishes Platinum French Bulldogs from other breeds, such as their DNA makeup , physical traits, potential health issues, and where you can locate healthy puppies for sale if you want to bring one of these exceptional pups into your house. What is a Platinum French Bulldog? They are distinguished by a gene mutation known as the Blue Dilution Gene, which causes their coat color to be lighter than regular Frenchies. This gene also causes an iridescent silver-blue shine on the puppies' fur, giving them a distinct appearance. Platinum French Bulldogs are essentially the same as any other Frenchie. They possess the same genetic markers and qualities that identify this breed, including its signature "bat ears," short muzzle, and robust body type. They share the same genetic markers and characteristics that define this breed, such as its signature "bat ears," short muzzle, and sturdy body type. However, what distinguishes them is a gene mutation known as the Blue Dilution Gene , which causes their coat color to be lighter than traditional Frenchies. The Blue Dilution Gene is associated with melanism, a recessive condition that requires two alleles to be present for an animal to display evidence of platinum coloring. While some dogs have only one allele, those with two alleles have the most prominent silvery blue coloration. Breeders must guarantee that both parents carry this unique gene mutation in order to avoid producing off-colored offspring or diluting their bright coats later in the breeding process. As a result, before purchasing your puppy, respectable dog vendors should always give proof that both parent dogs contain this gene. Are Platinum French Bulldogs rare? While they are not considered rare in the traditional sense, potential purchasers should conduct an extensive study before bringing one home because significant health issues are linked with this specific gene mutation. Yes, the answer is yes. This means that to be formally registered , they must comply with all of the same criteria and laws as this regulatory body. This includes having two purebred parents of the same breed, breeding according to AKC criteria, and passing specific health tests before registering. Furthermore, while some may feel Platinum Frenchies are rare owing to their unique coloration, they are very common given how popular these pups have been in recent years. This distinctive color is due to a gene mutation known as the Blue Dilution Gene, which results in an iridescent sheen on its fur, distinguishing it from other dogs. Platinum Frenchies, in addition to this eye-catching feature, have all the defining characteristics that make up this beloved breed, such as their short muzzles and "bat ears," as well as sturdy bodies and muscular legs - though they may be slightly smaller than traditional varietals due to their lighter coats! Aside from their platinum coloring, these exceptional puppies have other distinguishing physical characteristics that set them apart from other Frenchie kinds. Platinum French Bulldogs, for example, have more delicate facial traits, such as softer eyes and snouts, according to several owners. Another noticeable difference between Platinums and Standard Frenchies is their size; not only do they tend to be slightly smaller, but they also carry less weight around their midsections, giving them a leaner body type. Platinum French Bulldog common health issues Before bringing one home, potential buyers should be aware of the health problems linked with this gene mutation. The Blue Dilution Gene, which provides their pale coat color, can also cause health issues like Brachycephalic Syndrome , entropion or ectropion, hip dysplasia, or luxating patellas. As a result, owners of these particular pups must provide plenty of mental stimulation as well as physical exercise, or they may become bored rapidly. If left untreated, this syndrome leads people to have difficulty breathing via their nose or mouth and can lead to various health concerns such as snoring, gagging, coughing, wheezing, and fainting. Cleft Palate A cleft palate is a congenital birth disorder in which the roof of the mouth is affected, resulting in an incomplete or improperly formed palate. This disorder can arise alone or in combination with other facial defects, such as cleft lip and palate. While this defect does not always manifest itself immediately after birth, it is crucial to be aware of it. Newborns born with cleft palates are more prone to health concerns such as ear infections and difficulty eating due to their inability to effectively digest milk. Cherry Eye Cherry eye is a prevalent medical disease that affects puppies of certain breeds, such as French Bulldogs, even though other kinds may also be affected. This condition develops when the gland of the third eyelid enlarges and protrudes from behind the lower lid, like a cherry or lump on the eyeball. Skin Allergies Skin allergies are a prevalent problem in dogs of many breeds, including French Bulldogs. Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to an allergen in the environment or food, causing inflammation and skin irritation. Deafness Deafness is a disorder that can affect any dog breed, including French Bulldogs. Symptoms include failure to respond when called, refusal to arise from sleep, and even utter silence when previously vocalizing regularly, making it critical for owners to learn how to recognize deafness in its early stages. Heat Stroke Heat stroke is a serious medical issue affecting all breeds of dogs, including French Bulldogs. The latter are the most deadly because they can lead to organ failure if left untreated for too long. Platinum Frenchie lifespan A Platinum Frenchie has an average lifespan of years, while some can live even longer with adequate care and attention. These dogs are noted for being energetic and agile, making them excellent companions for active people who enjoy spending time outside. However, because of their smaller size, they may be more prone to certain medical difficulties than larger breeds. Therefore additional care should always be made to ensure the pup has the best possible care throughout its life. Potty training a Platinum French Bulldog is not necessarily more difficult than potty training a regular French Bulldog, as the process of potty training largely depends on the individual dog's personality and training history, rather than their coat color. It's important to keep in mind that all dogs, regardless of breed or coat color, require consistency and patience when it comes to potty training. The key to successful potty training is establishing a regular routine, providing plenty of opportunities for your dog to go outside, and using positive reinforcement techniques to reward good behavior. Finding a healthy Platinum French Bulldog for sale When looking for a healthy Platinum French Bulldog, it is critical to do your homework and confirm that the puppy you are interested in has been carefully bred. This includes examining the breeder's website or, if possible, visiting their premises in person and asking questions about the puppy's parents and any health testing they have done. It's also a good idea to talk to other owners of this breed to see what characteristics they have noticed in their dogs, such as energy level, temperament, and overall well-being. Other Exotic French Bulldog Colors In addition to Platinum-colored French Bulldogs, there are several other exotic coloring options available in the breed. Lilac Frenchies have a unique coat color that is a light shade of grayish-purple, while Merle Frenchies have a distinctive pattern that is characterized by random blotches of color on a base coat. Red Fawn Frenchies have a rich red hue to their coat, while Fluffy Frenchies have a longer and more wavy coat than a traditional Frenchie. While exotic coloring can make a French Bulldog stand out in a crowd, it's important to remember that breeding for specific coat colors or patterns can compromise the health and well-being of the breed. Responsible breeders prioritize the health and temperament of the breed over appearance, and carefully select breeding pairs based on factors such as health, temperament, and genetic diversity. Final Thoughts Overall, when it comes to Platinum French Bulldogs, the key to selecting a healthy pup is to do your research and buy from a reliable supplier. By asking questions of breeders, owners, and vets, you will be able to discover any possible concerns before they develop, ensuring that you and your furry pet have many happy years together. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Hair loss that progressively gets worse— it starts out as patches of hair loss Color Dilution Alopecia cannot be tested for Unfortunately, it is not currently possible to test for color dilution alopecia as the gene directly responsible is still unknown. Allergies : French Bulldogs can develop allergies to environmental factors such as pollen, dust, and certain types of food. Common symptoms of allergies in dogs include itching, skin irritation, and digestive issues. Breathing issues : Due to their short snouts and flat faces, French Bulldogs can experience breathing problems. Stenotic nares narrowed nostrils , elongated soft palate a condition where the soft palate obstructs the airway , and tracheal collapse when the trachea collapses or flattens are all common respiratory problems in Frenchies. Joint problems : Joint problems are among the most common health issues in French Bulldogs. Hip dysplasia , elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation knee joint dislocation , and arthritis are all conditions that can affect Frenchies and cause pain and mobility issues. Spinal issues: French Bulldogs can also be prone to spinal problems such as hemivertebrae a spinal deformity , intervertebral disc disease a condition where the discs between the vertebrae in the spine degenerate or rupture , and degenerative myelopathy a progressive disease that affects the spinal cord. Eye problems : Cherry eye a condition where the tear gland in the eye protrudes from its normal position , cataracts cloudiness in the lens of the eye , entropion a condition where the eyelid rolls inward , and distichiasis an abnormal eyelash growing from the wrong location are all eye problems that can affect Frenchies. Frenchie Health Guide An in-depth guide on nearly every health problem affecting Frenchies. How much is a Lilac French Bulldog? Are Lilac French Bulldogs Expensive? They have the same body structure, including their signature bat-like ears, and are known for their friendly, loyal, and playful nature. Size: Both variations typically weigh between pounds and stand around inches tall at the shoulder. Health Concerns: As both colors are linked to dilution genes, they can be associated with certain genetic health conditions, such as color dilution alopecia a condition that can cause hair thinning or loss. Differences: Color: The most obvious difference lies in their coat color. Blue French Bulldogs have a unique blue-gray coat, while Lilac French Bulldogs have a coat that can be described as silvery lilac or lavender. Eye Color: Blue French Bulldogs often have blue or grey eyes, while Lilac French Bulldogs can have light-colored eyes that are blue, green, or amber. Rarity: Lilac French Bulldogs are more rare than Blue French Bulldogs due to the specific combination of dilution genes required to produce the lilac color. Is a Frenchie right for me? Are you trying to decide whether or not a French Bulldog is the right breed for you? Menu Menu Platinum French bulldog One to two litters per year will have a small number of beautiful and stunning Platinum French bulldog puppies for sale. Our Platinum Frenchie puppies for sale mostly are lilac platinum or Isabella platinum when available. Considered rare these Frenchie puppies for sale near me are some of the coolest of the bunch. Platinum Frenchie puppies for sale If you are searching for one of the most rare French bulldog colors, look no further than Platinum French bulldog puppies. Platinum Frenchies for sale are going to be anywhere from k or more depending on type of registration pet or breeding rights. Owning a platinum French bulldog puppy is just like any other type besides it being a really cool color! Here is a 2 day old platinum Frenchie puppy feeding on mom here at DFB. As experienced French bulldog breeders we offer 1 platinum on average for every litter of pups we produce. Check out our Amazing Stud and sire to most of our amazing litters! He is absolutely stunning, well mannered and one of the best structured studs carrying testable chocolate, cream and makes amazing platinum french bulldog puppies, and fluffy currently working within the USA! These pups are stunning in every aspect. There is just something about a Frenchie Puppy with white fur and blue eyes! Reserve an Elon pup today and experience one of his amazing offspring! Elon can make Blues, blues and tans, Isabella, Isabella and tan, New Shade isabella, Lilac, Lilac and tan, fluffies, creams, basically everything under the rainbow with AMAZING compact structure, big heads, with both intelligence and temperament to boot! We breed for shorter bodies and legs, not long legged giraffes. We are proud that all of our Frenchie puppies for sale are raised in our home with our children, under foot. Every single French Bulldog puppy are well socialized and you can expect a playful, smart, inquisitive and loving professional Snuggle Bug. Available Puppies Notification List. This is because their genetic makeup, comprising multiple pairs of recessive genes, allows them to breed with other exotic variations for a rare color. So breeding a Blue Frenchie with a Platinum can give you Blue puppies. You can read our articles on Lilac and Isabella Frenchies , where we differentiate the two. In recent years, there has been some controversy surrounding the breeding of Platinum French Bulldogs, as some breeders have been accused of breeding for color rather than health and temperament. Potential owners need to do their research and only purchase a Platinum French Bulldog from a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs above all else, including color. Platinum French Bulldogs have all the same physical characteristics as other French Bulldogs, including their signature bat ears and the very short muzzles that look strategically punched in. They have a stocky, muscular build, compact body, and broad chest. The eyes of Platinum French Bulldogs are the most distinct feature after their coats. Due to their genetics, Platinums possess light-colored eyes ranging from blue to green. Their paws and noses are also light with a bright pink color. Size and Weight Platinum French Bulldogs are small, typically weighing between 16 to 28 pounds 7 to 13 kg and standing 11 to 13 inches 28 to 33 cm tall at the shoulder. They have a pale silver or platinum coat that is often described as having a metallic sheen. The coat is short, smooth, and shiny, with a soft texture. There are different Platinum Frenchie colors as follows: Isabella Platinum On top of the cream base color, these dogs have a distinct brownish undertone with hints of lavender or gray. Lilac Platinum These have a pretty pronounced grayish or lavender undertone with hints of a red or soft chocolate tinge in addition to the cream. Newshade Platinum These dogs may look like lilac or Isabella Platinums, with genes as the only notable difference. Merle Platinum They have spots of a darker color on a background of the same shade Blue Platinum The blue dilution gene is more prominent, causing a more pronounced blue shade in the coat. Fawn Platinum The cream gene is more pronounced in these dogs, and they have a pale yellow hue. Piebald Platinum Dogs with this color have random white spots on the body Chocolate Platinum Here, the chocolate tinge is more defined due to the prominence of the brown gene. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Platinum French Bulldog vs. Although both coats look cream, Platinums have a very slight grayish-blue shiny, metallic sheen that makes them stand out from other French Bulldogs. In contrast, Cream French Bulldogs have a pure cream coat that is soft and velvety to the touch. However, practically, telling this coat difference may be challenging, which is where the eyes come in. Platinum Frenchies always have light eyes, paws, and noses, while Cream Frenchies have dark eyes and noses. Can you get a miniature or micro platinum French Bulldog? Miniature or micro platinum French Bulldogs are being advertised and can be registered with clubs like the Designer Kennel Club. However, the American Kennel club does not recognize any teacup, miniature, pocket, or micro Frenchies. So, breeders who do breed smaller Frenchies should be heavily vetted to make sure their breeding practices are ethical. The video below is of a platinum micro Frenchie. While they share some similarities, there are also some key differences between them. Color The most obvious difference between these three variations is their color. Platinum French Bulldogs have a cream coat with a blueish-gray undertone. White Frenchie Platinum Frenchies have an off-white, cream coat, while white Frenchies have an all-white coat. Platinum Frenchies are also more resilient to the sun since they have more pigment than White Frenchies. They are loyal, playful, and love to be around people. They are also great with children and make excellent family pets. These dogs are moderately intelligent and easy to train because of their desire to please, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Platinum French Bulldogs are not naturally aggressive, but they can protect their owners and territory. They may bark at strangers but are not known to be excessive barkers. These dogs are also known for their adaptability. They can do well in various living situations, from apartments to larger homes with yards. However, they require daily exercise and playtime to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. In addition to quality dog food, it is also recommended to supplement their diet with fresh vegetables and fruits. Exercise Needs Platinum French Bulldogs are a small breed and do not require a lot of exercise, only needing 30 to 45 minutes of walking. However, regular exercise is essential to keep them healthy and prevent obesity. Daily walks and playtime in the backyard or park are enough to meet their exercise needs. It is important to note that Platinum French Bulldogs are sensitive to extreme temperatures, so it is best to avoid exercising them during extreme heat or cold. Regular brushing is recommended to keep their coat shiny and healthy. Use a soft-bristled brush to prevent any skin irritation. Their wrinkles and facial folds require special attention to prevent any infections. Clean their wrinkles and facial folds regularly with a damp cloth to prevent any buildup of dirt and debris, and dry with highly absorbent towels. In addition to grooming, it is also essential to maintain their dental hygiene. Brush their teeth twice with a soft-bristled toothbrush and alternate with a canine mouth rinse. They only need monthly baths or as needed with a quality canine shampoo. Clean their ears bi-weekly with dog ear wipes and trim their nails with canine clippers every 3 to 4 weeks. These dogs are moderately intelligent, eager to please, and highly trainable. Your platinum French Bulldog can become a well-behaved, obedient, and loyal companion with proper training. One of the most important aspects of training your platinum French Bulldog is socialization, basic commands, and crate training. Consistency is key when training your platinum French Bulldog. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and playtime to reward good behavior. Avoid using punishment or harsh training methods, as this can lead to fear and aggression in your dog. How to Choose a Platinum French Bulldog Breeder When looking for a platinum French Bulldog breeder, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you find a reputable and responsible breeder. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision: Research the Breeder Before choosing a breeder, do your research. These organizations have strict guidelines that breeders must follow to ensure their dogs are healthy and well-cared for. You can also check online reviews and forums to see what other people have to say about the breeder you are considering. Visit the Breeder Once you have found a breeder you are interested in, make an appointment to visit their facility. This will allow you to see the conditions the dogs are kept in and meet the breeder in person. During your visit, ask the breeder questions about their breeding program, the health of their dogs, and any genetic testing they may have done. A responsible breeder will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with any information that you need. Health Guarantee A reputable breeder will provide a health guarantee for their puppies. This means that if your puppy develops any genetic health problems, the breeder will take responsibility for the cost of treatment. Ensure you read the health guarantee carefully and understand what it covers. A good breeder will also provide you with a contract outlining the sale terms and any other important information. Following these tips, you can find a reputable and responsible platinum French Bulldog breeder who will provide you with a healthy and happy puppy. However, some breeders may charge even more for a puppy with exceptional coloring or bloodlines. It is important to note that the high cost of a Platinum French Bulldog is not just due to their color but also the breeding process involved in producing this rare color. The price range for a platinum French Bulldog can vary depending on several factors, such as the breeder, location, and bloodline. How long does the platinum Frenchie live? The lifespan of a platinum French Bulldog is typically between 10 to 12 years. However, they can live longer with proper care and a healthy lifestyle. Do platinum French Bulldogs shed? Yes, platinum French Bulldogs do shed, but their short and fine coat makes shedding less noticeable than other breeds. What is the difference between a Platinum and a Lilac French Bulldog? The main difference between a Platinum and a Lilac French Bulldog is their coat color. Platinum French Bulldogs have a lighter coat with a silver sheen, while lilac French Bulldogs have a diluted grayish coat with a soft chocolate hue. How do I know if my French Bulldog is a platinum color? Platinum French Bulldogs have a light-colored coat with a silver sheen. They also have light eyes, noses, and paw pads. What is the rarest color for French Bulldogs? Recessive genes cause these colors and are not very common in the breed. Is the Platinum Frenchie hypoallergenic? No, platinum French Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic. They do shed, which can trigger allergies in some people. Final Thoughts Platinum French Bulldogs are a unique and rare breed gaining popularity among dog enthusiasts. They are known for their beautiful and distinctive coat color, a light cream shade with a hint of grayish blue. While they may be more expensive than other French Bulldogs, they are worth the investment for those who appreciate their unique appearance and personality. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Me What makes Platinum Frenchies so special and high-value? Platinum French Bulldogs are a relatively new and rare color variation of the French Bulldog breed. As such, they are highly sought after by dog enthusiasts and breeders alike, and their value can be significantly higher than other French Bulldog colors. One of the main factors that contribute to the high value of Platinum Frenchies is their unique coat color. The platinum color in Frenchies is optically similar to albino but retains some luster in their coat as opposed to the pure white seen in albino. It is also similar to a light cream color but it is off-white or sort of silver-looking. What makes platinum Frenchies special and highly valuable for breeding purposes is that they carry the most colors in French bulldogs: whichever color a platinum Frenchie is mixed with, the puppies will be of that color. They are certainly very rare and unique dogs. Moreover, Platinum French Bulldogs are also known for their friendly and affectionate personalities. They are highly adaptable dogs that thrive in a variety of living situations, making them a popular choice for city dwellers and families alike. Platinum Frenchies are also known for their compact and sturdy build, which makes them ideal companions for those who are looking for a small but sturdy dog that is easy to care for. While the initial cost of a Platinum Frenchie may be high, they can bring years of love and companionship into your life, making them well worth the investment for many dog lovers. Here are some things to keep in mind: Socialization During the first few months of their lives, Platinum Frenchie puppies need to be socialized to a variety of people, places, and other animals. This will help them develop into well-adjusted, friendly dogs later in life. Training Basic obedience training should begin as early as possible. Consistent and positive reinforcement training will help your puppy learn good manners and develop good habits. Feeding Platinum Frenchie puppies have specific dietary needs that should be met to ensure they grow up healthy and strong. Be sure to feed your puppy a high-quality, nutritious diet that meets their specific needs. Exercise While Platinum Frenchies are a small breed, they still require daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Make sure to provide your puppy with plenty of opportunities to play and exercise, but be mindful not to over-exercise them. Grooming Platinum Frenchie puppies have short coats that require minimal grooming. Overall, the first few months with your Platinum Frenchie puppy will require patience, love, and dedication. With proper care, socialization, and training, your puppy will grow up to be a loyal and loving companion. Here are some things to look for when choosing a breeder: Health certifications Reputable breeders will provide health certifications for their breeding dogs, which will help to ensure that the puppies they produce are healthy and free of genetic health issues. We also do several tests on all of our puppies before shipping them to their new homes. Socialization Good breeders will ensure that their puppies are well-socialized and exposed to a variety of people and experiences during their early weeks of life. Our puppies grow up in a kennel-free environment to ensure healthy muscle growth. Feel free to ask your questions to our Frenchie experts! References A reputable breeder should be able to provide references from previous clients who have purchased puppies from them. We have a closed Facebook group with Tomkings owners and prospective owners. Feel free to join our group and meet the others! Support A good breeder will provide ongoing support to their clients, including advice on training and care, as well as being available to answer any questions or concerns that may arise. What is a Platinum French Bulldog? What is Platinum French Bulldog? A Platinum French Bulldog is a white to cream-colored French Bulldog with color dilution around the eyes, lips, nose, and paw pads. What makes a Platinum French Bulldog? Platinum Frenchie A French Bulldog is considered Platinum if he possesses in his genetic makeup three 3 recessive genes of which two are always present. Outwardly, they look almost similar to the Cream French Bulldog, but their eye color is lighter, and their paws, lips, and nose has a pinkish hue. Yes, Platinum French Bulldogs are rare because of their unique genetic makeup. No, Platinum Frenchies are not recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC because their color is considered exotic and the health issues involved as a result of their recessive genes do not conform to the standards. Platinum French Bulldogs physical appearance Like all French Bulldogs, Platinum French Bulldog is small to medium-sized dog that has a compact, heavy-boned, and muscular body. They have a brachycephalic head with a pushed-in nose. The ears are bat-shaped with a broad base and rounded top and eye color could be light-colored or Platinum French Bulldog Blue Eyes. French Bulldog coat is short and smooth that is single-coated. Some brindled French Bulldogs are double-coated and some also exhibit longer hairs around the head if they carry a recessive gene. Platinum fluffy French Bulldog Fluffy Platinum French Bulldog exhibits long and wavy hairs around the head and a shorter coat towards the back. Fluffy French Bulldog Platinum has the recessive L4 genes which both of its parents should carry. Save Big On Dog Essentials! Welcome to our pack! A Platinum Lilac French Bulldog has a light off-white coat with a slight bluish-gray tinge. Because of the dilution gene, lilac and Platinum French Bulldog will also have light-colored eyes. French Bulldog Lilac Platinum exhibits a light pink nose and pink paw pads. Lilac Platinum French Bulldog puppy can be a product of a lilac or blue Frenchies that carries the recessive genes. French Bulldog Platinum lilac is typically short-haired, but if they have the additional L4 recessive gene, then it would be a Lilac Platinum fluffy French Bulldog which has longer, wavy hairs around the neck, head, and ears. Platinum Lilac and Tan French Bulldog will have light-colored eyes and pink noses. Platinum lilac merle French Bulldog Lilac Platinum merle French Bulldog has mottled patches of light bluish gray on a light-colored body coat. Platinum Merle Frenchie can have light blue eyes. Blue Platinum merle French Bulldog will have mottled patches of light gray coat on its light brown body. Platinum vs cream French Bulldog The main difference between cream and Platinum French Bulldog is that cream French Bulldog has black-rimmed eyes, black nose, lips, and paw pads while Platinum French Bulldog will show color dilution in those areas. Platinum fawn French Bulldog Platinum fawn French Bulldog has a light tan colored coat with a pink nose and paw pads. Platinum blue Platinum French Bulldog also exhibits dilution on the nose, eye color, and paw pads. Blue and tan Platinum French Bulldog Blue and tan Platinum French Bulldog has light bluish gray coat that can have tan points on the eyebrows, chest, or legs. Chocolate Platinum French Bulldog Chocolate Platinum French Bulldog has a light chocolate color with dilution in the eyes, nose, and paw pads. Platinum pied French Bulldog Platinum pied French Bulldog has a white coat with patches of light brown coat. Platinum white French Bulldog White Platinum French Bulldog has a white coat with light-colored eyes, pink nose and paw pads. Platinum and tan French Bulldog Platinum tan French Bulldog has light cream or white coats with tan points in the eyebrows, chest, and legs. Their weight can vary from 17 to 28 pounds with the Platinum male French Bulldog being heavier, but not necessarily taller.

Is the Boston Terrier and Pug mix the right dog for you? What is a Boston Terrier and Pug mix? But this hybrid also inherited negative traits such as its tendency to be stubborn and territorial. It does not like being left alone or separated from its family. We will be talking more about these traits later in the article. Buggs are affectionate. Buggs have short, small legs, and a short tail. But, good thing for this hybrid, its parent breeds have some similar facial features. Some endearing facial features the Bugg inherited from both parent breeds are their expressive round, bulging eyes and short flat muzzles. Common coat colors for the Boston Terrier Pug mix include shades of black, white, brindle, and fawn. Once-a-week brushing should suffice in keeping their coats looking healthy. Although its coat is non-hypoallergenic, the Boston Terrier Pug mix sheds moderately. This crossbreed may still be ideal for pet owners who have mild allergies. Your Bugg is energetic and loves playtime, but these dogs do not require much exercise. Taking them on a short minute walk or a brisk walk around the block daily is enough to keep this pup happy and healthy. Just like any dog, Boston Terrier Pug mixes need to have their teeth brushed everyday to ensure they maintain excellent dental health. Their ears need to be checked and cleaned at least once a week to avoid infection. While a Boston Terrier and Pug cross may not require too much exercise, it is not comfortable being left alone for too long. Your presence in its day-to-day life is a must for this breed. Boston Terrier Pug Mix Health Problems They are prone to some health conditions that are common in their parent breeds as listed below. Obesity — it is a known fact in the doggie world that a Pug has the tendency to overeat. The Bug dog may inherit that from its parent. Brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome BAOS — This condition causes a dog with a short nose to have difficulties in breathing. You might find your Boston Terrier-Pug hybrid trying to catch its breath when they run or during any rigorous play. Snoring is also a symptom of this issue. Dermatitis — This is a skin condition that Boston Terrier-Pug crosses may inherit due to the folds on their faces and their twisted tail. You should take them to the vet if you see signs of skin irritation. Clicker training works well for them. A lot of positive praise and treats during your training sessions will be appreciated by this breed. While a Boston Terrier Pug mix might inherit positive traits from its parent breeds, it can also inherit negative tendencies that can become serious behavioral issues if not addressed early on. Here are some negative traits a Bugg can inherit from its parents, along with some tips on what you can do about these: Stubbornness — Sometimes a Pug and Boston Terrier mix just chooses not to do what you say. Obedience training while the Bugg is still a puppy can help fix this. Jealousy and territorial behavior — Early socialization with humans and other pets at home is the key to keeping a Bug dog from being territorial. Make sure to leave your dog with some toys and treats to distract it from your absence. This all sounds great! Where can I get a Boston Terrier Pug mix? You may also opt for Bugg pups who are for adoption from shelters and rescue organizations. It may be challenging to find breeders of Boston Terrier and Pug mix puppies, but you can check breeders of its parent breeds:. Bugg Highlights Buggs are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Boston Terrier or Pug parents. The main colors of Buggs are brown, black, and white. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. Still, their short coats do shed a bit, so they are not completely hypoallergenic. Buggs are prone to weight gain. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions mixed in. The Bugg is a notoriously friendly and playful dog, which makes them a wonderful pet for children. Still, the Bugg is a small mixed breed dog, and they can be easily injured by overly excited children. Buggs like to be the center of attention, and they may prefer to be the only pet in the house. They can handle small bouts of being alone, but they do best in a household where someone is home for a majority of the time. Bugg History The Bugg dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Boston Terriers and Pugs in the late s , likely in North America. Both the Boston Terrier and the Pug are known as affectionate, easy-going breeds, so breeders likely wanted to mix the two parent breeds to maximize these desirable traits. They continued to breed Buggs as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Bugg breed got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide the Boston Terrier Pug mix is the right breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Bugg rescues, or check with breed specific Boston Terrier or Pug rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Bugg Size As the Bugg is a somewhat new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. However, as a mix between two compact breeds, the Boston Terrier and the Pug, you can expect them to be on the smaller side. Most weigh in between ten and 25 pounds, and they range in height from 14 to 18 inches from the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Bugg Personality Just like their parents, Buggs can be incredible companions. The mixed breed tends to be outgoing and friendly, even with children. They also tend to pick a favorite human and stick by their side, which makes them ideal pets for one-person homes as well as families. The Bugg can also get territorial if not properly socialized and trained. As a small dog, the Bugg is prone to resource guarding and could get vocal or snippy with other animals or pets competing for your attention. Many Bugg enthusiasts describe the mixed breed as nothing short of goofy. They are always happy to indulge in a quick play session or to burrow into you as you watch TV from the couch. This hammy mixed breed loves being in the spotlight, which also means that they are prone to separation anxiety. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few ailments, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine to keep your Bugg healthy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. The Bugg is a brachycephalic breed, AKA the adorable, smushed face. Talk to your vet about a plan of action to prevent brachycephalic syndrome , a potentially fatal condition. You should brush their teeth daily, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Bugg Feeding An ideal Bugg diet should be formulated for a small breed with high energy. Still, they are more than happy to laze about if given the chance, and they have a tendency to gain weight if overfed. While treats are an amazing incentive for training your Bugg, try to limit the amount. Because they tend to have shorter coats—along with flat faces—Buggs are not suited for extreme weather. Bugg Children And Other Pets The Bugg is a notoriously friendly and playful dog, which makes them a wonderful pet for children. This pup can make an amazing, active companion for kids who learn how to properly approach and play with a small dog. When it comes to other pets, Buggs can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. If not, your Bugg might show off their Boston Terrier-inherited territorial streak and become aggressive with other animals, especially other dogs. Still, many Buggs get along just fine with other dogs and cats, so it really comes down to training, socialization, and the luck of the draw. Bugg Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Buggs because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Boston Terrier or Pug breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. The designer dogs are comical at times but are genuinely affectionate, solely consecrated to their owners. They would love spending maximum time with their masters, sleeping with them or cuddling on their laps. They also have an equally tender feeling towards children, satisfying their playful instincts by spending fun moments with them. Some Buggs might inherit the territorial instinct of the Boston, thus making it difficult for them to get along with other pets. Care Exercise Your Bugg is full of energy and a strong willingness to play. Schedule for short, brisk walks, swimming which they enjoy , or mild activities once or twice a day. Indulge it in playing without a leash, making sure, its playground has a secure enclosure. Grooming The Buggs have a short coat and do not shed much. No trimming or stripping is needed. But do brush them at least once a week. Keep their facial skin folds clean to avoid allergies. Also take care that their protruding eyes do not catch debris and cause vision problems. Training Dealing with stubbornness in a Bugg is not difficult. All you have to do is give it the right signal. For instance, when you are taking your dog out of the front gate for an evening walk, keep your clicker and treats ready. Hold the leash and wait for it to look back at you, without addressing it. Once it does, click and give it the goodie. Follow a few more steps, stop again — let it look at you, and it gets one more clicking treat. Keep clicking and treating it, as and when you see the leash becomes tight. Your Bugg will get the message that looking at you before contriving to stubborn would help it get it treats. Right from puppyhood, teach your Bugg not to lose temper in situations related to territoriality, especially if you get the slightest hint. Train your puppy not to run boundaries when you keep them outside. Rather, treat your dog every time it accepts your approaching guests or other pets, and stay relaxed. If you are also a cat or bird lover, give your puppy socialization training to help with grow with fellow pets in a hassle free manner. Take extra care that this does not happen, or else it might end in obesity issues. Keep it limited to 0. He is my baby, He has to be in sight of me or on my lap, laying on me or next to me at all times. I could not ask for a better boy, most of the time. I know better. Besides this gross habit however I have never had a pet like him. And will rgun over and chase him away from the food dish if he believes he has had more than his share. Which sometimes can be 1 mouthful of food. But all in all he gets along with him. They are best buds and are always close to one another. He has an underbite, many fatty tumors on him and has mid stage cataracts as well as heart issues. I know he is getting to the end but as my vet says his quality of life is still extremely well considering his age. He likes to go for rides, loves attention but is very protective of me when people are visiting only barks at them nothing more if they move he is very funny about when he gets into the garbage. By then I already know. He now helps me pick it up. But cuddles always make it better. My point is regardless of his quirks I love him so much and am so grateful he is part of my family. He speaks with his eyes and expressions, loves ear rubs and massages. Nope he is not spoiled at all! My only regret is that I wish I would have been able to have him from puppyhood. Lifespan Sociability With an average height of just 16 inches, these are very compact dogs that will never outgrow your lap. Bugg dogs are lovers at heart, perfect for families and individuals alike. But they can become quite territorial over their owners, an issue that needs to be addressed quickly. Though they get along great with family members and other people, Buggs are attention hogs, preferring to always be center stage. Both parents have similar eyes that seem to pop out of their heads, but ironically, those eyes could literally pop right out of their heads! It may seem crazy, but it has happened. This means they have flat faces, short snouts, and shallow eye sockets. Both Pugs and Boston Terriers are brachycephalic as well, which is why this issue is rampant in the Bugg breed. Because of the shallow eye sockets, their eyes can pop out of their sockets due to a condition called proptosis. It happens most often when the dog is playing or fighting with other dogs. Boston Terriers are known to be territorial of their owners and environment, and the Bugg dog can often display the same behavior. If they do, it will be very hard to break them of it later. In all of these organizations, this breed is known as Bugg. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They need a lot of attention that a family can easily provide. If you let a Bugg grow older without proper socialization, they can be very territorial and may be aggressive towards other animals in their home. A short walk each day should provide plenty of exercise on top of regular playing and their own general silliness. It may require a lot of patience and determination. To keep their coat free of dead hair, simply brush or comb them once a week or so. This means they have flat faces with protruding eyes. While this look is very popular and these dogs have been bred to continue the trait, it can also result in health complications such as breathing difficulties and eye problems. Brachycephalic dogs have shortened bones in their faces. When this causes abnormalities in the upper airways, the condition is known as brachycephalic airway syndrome. There are several conditions that get grouped under this name, including stenotic nares, extended nasopharyngeal turbinates, a hypoplastic trachea, and several others. All of these conditions can make it very difficult for your dog to breathe. Most dogs affected by this syndrome will breathe through their mouths more easily than their noses. They may have very loud breathing and will often snore when sleeping and snort when excited. This syndrome can develop into secondary problems and even put an increased strain on the heart from the increased effort required for breathing. Brachycephalic ocular syndrome is also another big health issue to look out for in your Bugg. This syndrome is also a collection of conditions that can include medial canthal entropion, epiphora and tear staining, trichiasis, and more. This condition is marked by the protruding eyes commonly seen on these breeds. It can prevent the dog from blinking and may be very uncomfortable. It can also result in decreased vision. Brachycephalic dogs like Buggs may also experience an eye proptosis. Because they have shallow eye sockets and protruding eyes, their eye may actually come out of the socket. On a lighter note — no pun intended — Buggs love to eat and are known to overeat if given the opportunity. While all animals are susceptible to obesity with prolonged overfeeding, Buggs are more likely to develop this condition than most. Minor Conditions. If you have misfortune finding a trustworthy breeder for this hybrid, you can either ask a local veterinarian if they have anyone which they can refer to you or ask breeders of both parent breeds, instead: Our Brindle Bostons OK Weywood Showdogs PA Celestial Pugs CA A legitimate breeder should let you have a visit to their facility or kennels to meet the puppy before finalizing the purchase. This way, you can observe the living conditions of their animals. A visitation would also help make certain that your puppy is a good match for you. It is naturally glossy and can repel most of the dirt or water. You would only need to brush them once or twice every week to make sure that their shedding is kept to a minimum. Brushing using a slicker brush or comb will also help in maintaining the fur healthy and free of dirt or loose hair. This mixed breed does not have a doggy odor, so you can reduce their regular bathing to once a month or only when it is needed. Aside from that, you will also need to clip their nails every few weeks mainly because they will not break off naturally as they mostly stay indoors. You should also regularly clean their ears and check their eyes for any signs of infection. Boston Terrier Mixed with Pug Health Problems Pug Boston Terriers are known to live a long healthy life of 10 to 15 years, with proper care and a healthy diet. Like any other breed, they can also be prone to some health issues that are quite common in their parent breeds. It is important to remember to be cautious as their round bulging eyes are susceptible to injuries and debris could easily get in them. Obesity — Like their Pug parent, these dogs are also voracious eaters. The problem is, they are prone to obesity which can have adverse effects on their health and may even shorten their lifespan. It is very common in old age as their physical activities decrease or become lethargic. Owners should pay close attention to their diet as well as limit the number of treats. Fold Dermatitis — This occurs due to the moisture and heat that builds up in the folds of their skin. These areas become a breeding ground for fungi, yeast, and bacteria. It is much common during summer or hot weather. Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome — Also known as congenital obstructive airway disease, it is a common condition among flat-faced dogs. They can suffer from abnormalities like narrowed nostrils, an enlarged tongue, elongated soft palate, Hypoplastic Trachea, and Everted Laryngeal Saccules. Watch out for symptoms like snoring or if they often seem to try to catch their breath. These upper respiratory obstructions cause the dog to work harder to get some air through their airways resulting in distress, over-heating, and exacerbate obstructions. Abnormal Eyelid — This is a genetic condition where the eyelid folds inward. It causes the eyelash or hair to scratch and irritates the eye, which can lead to corneal perforation or ulceration. It is non-preventable and can only be corrected through surgery, especially in severe cases. They love to eat, and they would keep eating as much as they can. The first step in preventing this malicious disease is staying away from the worst dry dog food and limit their food intake to 0. Their diet should consist of high-quality dry dog food with a formula that is best suited for small dog breeds like themselves. The Boston Terrier combined with Pug will thrive on one of these best dry dog food for small dogs. Bigger dogs have different dietary needs and are better off with best large breed dry dog food For your convenience, we singled out these two premium dog foods: Wellness Core Dog Food — This brand is formulated with a high level of animal protein and has a product made specifically for small breeds like the Boston Terrier mixed with Pug. It contains ingredients that have balanced protein, fats, and calories designed to promote a healthy weight. Dog For Dog Food — Chicken meal, brown rice, leafy vegetables, eggs, and fruits are all found in this kibble. These carefully mixed ingredients support the health of the skin and coat while providing the dog with enough energy for the day. From an early age, you should give your furry pal only food that is age-appropriate. For whelps, this means best puppy food brands are the way to go. Wise, old doggos, on the other hand, need the combination of nutrients found in the best senior dry dog food to help maintain their health throughout the senior age. Dietary supplements such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can contribute to replenishing essential foodstuffs in the body and promoting the health of coat, skin, or teeth, as well as heart, brain, and other vital organs. Boston Terrier Pugs Exercise Requirements The Pug Boston Terrier mix is not the most energetic breed, but it is still very important to keep them active and healthy. Keeping your dog in good shape helps with their health and temperament. Give them at least a total of 40 minutes of activities daily. If you have yard space, you can teach them how to play fetch or let them play on their own with interactive toys. They have a few sizes available, but small would suit them best. You can choose from either chicken, bacon, or peanut butter flavors which also helps in keeping them interested. Zogoflex Tux is another toy that doubles as a fetch toy and a chew toy. You can stuff it with treats and kibbles. It will surely keep them engaged for long periods, perfect when you have to leave your dog alone. It comes in a dinosaur, hedgehog, or lion. It has multiple layers to make sure they are soft, durable, and non-toxic. It can withstand daily chewing and is very easy to carry. Pug Boston Terriers Training Dogs of this mixed breed are smart and very eager to please, which makes them fairly easy to train. They respond well to praises and treats. It is important to start them on their training at an early age to help instill discipline and discourage their negative tendencies. The Boston Terrier mixed with Pug may inherit some traits that can become behavioral issues if not addressed early on. You have to be firm, but remember that these are very sensitive dogs, so you also need to be careful not to hurt their feelings. Using gentle corrections and offering incentives seems to be the best way to train this pup. Here are a few other tips for effective training: How to Deal with Stubbornness — All you will need is a clicker, a few treats, and their leash. Best time to do this is before you take them on a walk. Before leaving the house, take time to hold the leash and wait for your dog to look back at you without calling their attention. Once they do, just click and hand them a treat. Take a few steps forward, stop, and repeat. This method sends a message to your dog that by looking at you, they would get a treat. It is a great stepping stone to teaching them other tricks in the future. Keep in mind that you have to remain patient, consistent, and committed in their training. Teaching Your Dog to Stay Calm — These dogs can quickly lose their temper when they feel territorial — socializing them while still young helps them get used to the presence of strangers including other animals. You also can train your dog to stay calm and relaxed around other people or pets by giving them treats when they do. They are known to be goofy dogs and gets into mischief quite often. Funny and affectionate, this crossbreed loves playing, receiving attention and cuddling with their owners. They are the perfect companion, family dog, and watchdog. These small dogs are amazingly gentle around children. Their size also makes them easy to manage for new pet owners. They would do well in an apartment. Like most other dogs, they inherit traits that are very common in their parent breeds. In this case, they can have few health and behavioral issues, which are easily remedied with proper care and training. Life Span Did You Know? A Bugg is a cross between a Boston Terrier and Pug. These dogs tend to be small and are known for their adorable faces and gentle, fun, and comedic personalities. As a designer breed, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are recognized by other notable dog organizations. Buggs are a great fit for single owners as well as families. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They tend to be sweet, affectionate, and love to cuddle. They also tend to have an upbeat, fun-loving, and sometimes clownish personality. If left untrained or not socialized properly, barking can become a nuisance behavior and they can also become territorial. Although they are very sensitive to heat, the Bugg is a highly adaptable dog. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes with yards. They also do well in most climates, aside from heat. But, they have a short coat, so they may need some winter dog products to stay warm in colder temperatures. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time because they are devoted to their families. Potential health conditions to be aware of in the Bugg breed include luxating patella , cataracts, deafness, hip dysplasia, and encephalitis. As a brachycephalic dog breed, they will be prone to breathing problems, allergies, and will be very sensitive to heat. Their protruding eyes can also become irritated in the cold and you need to be careful to keep them clear of debris. As a small dog breed, they are also more prone to developing dental disease. So, practicing good dental care for dogs is also important. Buggs are intelligent dogs that are eager to please even though they can be stubborn at times. This tends to make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a good idea as they strengthen the bond you have with your puppy and also offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. As a small dog breed, house training can be a challenge. But, with consistency, some house training tips , and a lot of patience, you can get through it. Bugg puppies are also quite curious and energetic. They also tend to be prone to jumping up and climbing over people and furniture. The Bugg has a short coat that will shed a little year-round and potentially a little more as the seasons change. Monthly nail trimming can be enough to keep nails from growing too long. Floppy ears are more prone to ear infections than ears that stick straight up all the time, but all ears need to be checked regularly. Many dog owners overlook dental care, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. But, gum disease in dogs is serious and can lead to many other health issues. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. The Bugg tends to have a moderate activity level. Daily walks plus some playtime or other activity are usually enough for this dog. Although they may have bursts of energy, they are small dogs and can wear themselves out quickly. They love being around you, so they will likely be up for more activity if you are. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they are not overdoing it. As a brachycephalic dog, they are more sensitive to heat and can easily become overheated. But, there are safe ways to exercise brachycephalic dogs to help your Bugg get the movement they need to stay healthy. A fully-grown Bugg usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Bugg generally lives for years. Bugg Puppies for Sale Thanks for visiting our Bugg page! Currently, we do not have any Bugg puppies available, but we can alert you when new Bugg puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. This is especially true with dogs like German Shepherds because they have a strong prey drive, but this nipping and biting can also quickly get out of hand. This often comes out as biting and nipping, but puppies will also bite when they are teething and to taste the world around them. This can, of course, quickly get out of hand if not taken care of swiftly. In this article, we look at the reasons behind German Shepherd puppies biting and seven steps to help stop the behavior. Training The first and most important step in stopping your puppy from biting is early and focused training. Beginning training at an early age is vital for powerful dogs like GSDs, as without it, they can easily develop problematic behaviors and even become aggressive. An important part of training is socialization, and getting your GSD to interact with other dogs will help teach them boundaries, as any biting too hard will have instant consequences for them. Image Credit: AnjaGh, Pixabay 2. Toys Toys are ideal for your GSD puppy to exercise their teething. There is a massive variety of suitable chew toys available, and whenever you notice your pooch getting the urge to chew, you can gently offer them a chew toy instead. Commands Basic and simple commands should be taught to your GSD from a young age. Whenever they get overexcited and bite down too hard, you can then simply issue a verbal command that catches their attention. After you issue the commands, leave your puppy alone for a few minutes so they learn that this behavior is unacceptable. Image Credit: Jim Sluder, Pixabay 4. Redirection Redirection is a useful tool in training and can work well with biting too. This method is simple and works by keeping your pup from unwanted behavior and offering them appropriate behavior instead. Whenever your pooch bites or nips, try to offer them a chew toy of some kind instead, and this will gradually lead them to chew toys as opposed to your hands. Squeak toys are great for this type of redirection, as the noise is enticing to most puppies and dogs. Reward good behavior Positive reinforcement training methods are best for leading your puppy toward desired behaviors and away from unwanted ones. These methods involve no scolding or harsh treatment, so they are ideal for cementing the bond between you and your pup. When you offer your dog a chew toy instead of biting and they take it or you issue a command that they instantly follow, you simply reward that behavior with either a treat or praise. You ignore any bad behavior. They will swiftly associate treats with good behavior and stop the bad behavior that gets them no attention. Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock 6. Games Since GSDs are such powerful and athletic animals, they need to be mentally and physically stimulated through games and interactive play. Games are also the best time to engage and enforce training techniques and get your GSD accustomed to them before biting gets out of hand. Stick to simple games like fetch or frisbee, where you can train your pooch to give the ball back when you tell them to. Harsh treatments like hitting or shouting are highly unlikely to solve the problem and will probably just make it worse, as your dog will simply become nervous and wary of you. With a powerful dog like German Shepherds, trust is vital. They are highly intelligent and aware animals, and the smallest of sounds or movements are enough to set them off. There are several reasons for this, including: GSD puppies will begin teething as early as 2 weeks old, and this can be uncomfortable and even painful for them. This behavior can go on until your puppy is 6 months old, and they will chew on almost anything that they can find — including your hand — in an attempt to try and soothe their discomfort. Separated too young. The first 2 months of your GSDs life is vital to their socialization and learning, and if they are taken away from their mother and litter too young, this may cause a lack of understanding of boundaries. Puppies will play and learn with the rest of their littermates, where they learn to control the force of their bite. GSDs should be at least 8 weeks old before they are re-homed. Fear or overstimulation. Fear, anxiety, and overstimulation are common reasons for puppies to lose control of their bite because this can cause them to become irritable or defensive and lead them into the habit of biting. Conclusion Since German Shepherds are such powerful dogs, proper training is vital, and bite inhibition is an essential part of that training. Proper training is the vital first step and will set the tone for all other methods. With time, consistency, patience, and gentle leadership, your German Shepherd puppy should kick the biting habit in no time. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! However, whilst German Shepherds tend to have good temperaments, as puppies they use their mouths to learn and will bite anything in sight. In this guide I will explain how you can overcome German Shepherd puppy biting problems, despite the challenges involved. He has never been an aggressive biter, but he would nip a lot as a puppy. Unfortunately, a lot of the biting was down to me, as I would do rough play with him and almost encourage the nipping. But, as my puppy got older, those playful nips started to hurt. Please do take all my tips in, as I believe it to be the most detailed solution you will find for stopping a German Shepherd biting that you see anywhere on the Internet. But first, why do German Shepherds puppies bite you? Most will let you know they are scared with a little bark, letting you know to keep away. If you continue to advance and upset them, the growl can then become a snap and possible bite. But, with an older and more aggressive German Shepherd, that bite could be very painful, particularly to young children. Do German Shepherds bite a lot? When German Shepherd are puppies, they do tend to do a lot of biting. Why German Shepherd puppies bite? The teething phase is when you will notice your German Shepherd puppy biting the most. Some German Shepherds will also bite a bit too enthusiastically when they are playing with you. This is a hangover from their days with their siblings where mouth play would have been used. You can stop a German Shepherd biting you when they teethe by giving them things to chew on. Image licensed via Storyblocks. You need to draw the line between biting and playing. As mentioned earlier, I would play with my own puppy and he would go for my hands with his teeth. I turned this into a game, which then became an issue as I had to train him out of it as he got older. German Shepherd puppies can also bite as a way of showing their dominance over you. Whatever the reason is for your German Shepherd puppy biting, it needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. If not, you will have problems with your adult German Shepherd thinking that biting is acceptable. Also, if your German Shepherd suddenly starts biting for no obvious reason please go to the vet immediately — it could be the sign of a new illness or injury. How to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting Here are different ways that really work if you need to know how you can stop a German Shepherd from biting as a puppy. Squeal like a puppy bite inhibition When you see puppies playing together in their litter, they will let out a tiny squealing sound when bitten by sibling. The puppy that bit will hear the squeal and then tends to back off. As German Shepherd owners we can imitate this behavior! If your German Shepherd puppy bites you and gives you a nip, make a high-pitched squeal sound. You might find your puppy seeks re-assurance and comfort, but the key is to not give it. Instead, ignore them for a few moments, for example; turn your back to them. This might sound mean but if you want your German Shepherd to stop biting it can work very well. The quicker you begin using this technique the sooner your German Shepherd will biting you and your family. All it will do is make your dog scared and could lead to more biting out of fear. I made this mistake with my own puppy, as would push him away playfully, but that just encouraged the biting more. They will want more of the play, so will bite back again. But you are training them into thinking your hands are fair game. Instead you should use chew toys for this type of play. If you can focus their attention onto a toy and not your hands, they will learn that fingers and hands are not there to be bitten. You can also see the prices by clicking the photo below. Puppies will often eat things they should not do, so you will need to hook stuff out of their mouth. You will also need to check the health of their teeth and gums. One of the best ways you can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite your fingers in their mouth is to use a treat or snack. Let them see it, and then use your fingers to pop it into their mouth and out again. Over time, they should get comfortable letting you put fingers in their mouth without biting back. Train your German Shepherd puppy to not bite over food One of the most common times a German Shepherd puppy will bite is when food is in the equation. Puppies tend to be very overprotective of food, which they learned when in the litter as they had to fight for nutrition. Unfortunately, it will be behavior that can extend to occur over their food bowl. If your German Shepherd is showing food aggression, then you need to train the puppy to learn you are in charge and can pick their bowl up and put it back down at any time — with no aggression from the dog. Handy Hint: Here are some ways you can teach your dog to not steal from the table or start begging you for food. What you do is put a bowl in front of your German Shepherd then quickly remove it again. Dog trainers tell you to do the loud squeal when the German Shepherd puppy bites you then quickly place your thumb in their mouth, pressing it underneath their tongue. You can then put a finger under the chin. Hold this position for 10 seconds if you can, but not hard enough to hurt the puppy. The German Shepherd will not like it, and it could mean they stop biting you and will learn for next time. Let your German Shepherd know you are in charge Older German Shepherds that bite will often do it to try to exert dominance over their owner. They can also bite due to jealousy, or when you tell them to do something like get off your chair or bed. You need to train your German Shepherd to realize you are the pack leader and the dominant one. Alphas like us owners, should not be bitten by pack members lower down the chain. Being assertive will help, but often simply rewarding good behavior is enough to get a dog to bend to your will. Socialise your German Shepherd puppy with other dogs Puppies will learn from each other and older dogs. We often look after puppies for our friends. Our friends will often say what a positive impact they see in their young pups after spending a day in the company of our now older dog. And that can include not as much biting. The sooner they can get used to things like this, the sooner they should learn not to bite out of fear. Keep your German Shepherd on a leash when exposing them to new things and noises. Always supervise your puppy when young children are present A German Shepherd that bites a child is a massive problem. There are also specialist animal behaviourists who can help with biting and fear aggression in German Shepherds. Something to consider though is how long your German Shepherd could be teething for. It can last up until they are 8 months of age, so biting and chewing things is to be expected during this phase. The dangers of a dog bite Adult German Shepherds that start biting can be dangerous. Whilst they are a small breed, people can get ill from infections. For example, around half of all dog bites will infect the person with bacteria, possibly leading to illness. The result is an open, jagged wound. If the wound becomes infected, it is often severe. The No. You may need hospitalization and require intravenous antibiotics. What do so when bitten by a German Shepherd If you get bitten by a German Shepherd and it leaves a bleeding wound rather than just an abrasion, take the following steps: Press down on the bite wound. This might mean that blood comes out, but that is good as it might help bacteria to come away from the wound. Use clean water and a mild soup to clean the bite wound. Use a clean cloth to press down on the bite wound again as this will help to slow and stop any bleeding. If you have it, apply antibiotic cream to the dog bite wound and then dress it with a new or sterile bandage. If serious, contact a health professional for advice. Conclusion To conclude, some of the quickest ways you can stop a German Shepherd from biting is to make sure you use positive and negative affirmations. In other words, you praise the good, and discourage the bad. Whichever method you try to use, and can be a combination, just make sure that you are consistent when training your German Shepherd puppy to not bite. Tell your friends and family to use the same methods too if they have contact with the puppy. Ultimately, unless you a clear and obvious to your German Shepherd, the puppy will not understand that his biting behavior is a bad thing. You need to take the role of the pack leader. You might also like…. An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation.