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Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our home-based, family-owned Australian Labradoodle breeding program is located about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. We are committed to breeding authentic, multigenerational Australian Labradoodles with bloodlines originating from the two breeding research centers in Australia, Rutland Manor and Teagan Park. Multigen Australian Labradoodles are consistently non-shedding, allergy and asthma friendly, loving, calm, intuitive and at times quite comical. All of these qualities make them wonderful family companions as well as excellent therapy and service dogs. Raising puppies is a lot of fun but it is also a lot of work!! As a breeder, it is our responsibility to make the most of our puppy's critical growth periods and introduce them to as many new sights, sounds, smells and situations as possible. At birth, days 3 to 16 with Bio Sensor Stimulation, and right through to the day you take your new fur baby home we are handling and socializing our puppies. Ultimately, it is our goal is to provide you with a healthy, well socialized, intelligent, lovable, easily trained doodle that will be a joyful addition to your family for many years to come. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Mahomet Illinois and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Contact Ericas doodles is committed to helping our families bring a new family member into their lives. We have decided because families are struggling to stretch their dollars but still want to bring joy into their families we are reducing our prices effectively immediately. We have been professionally breeding Doodles over 20 years. We know this doodle breed inside and out. We are also state-licensed we are not a backyard breeder we stand behind our dogs. We are 45 minutes southwest of downtown Chicago. We are a family of 6 that loves the doodle breeds. My husband, myself and my 4 children are all involved in the daily care of our beautiful dogs. We have researched and selected the best quality dogs for our breeding program. Our dogs get lots of free time with our children to run free on our ten beautiful acres. Our puppies are raised in our home underfoot and get handled from the day they are born. We truly believe that our children are very instrumental in helping with the daily socializing of our babies. Socialization is the key for puppies developing into the lifelong companions that families can be proud to own. Our goal is to breed the most beautiful and healthy puppies that will bring happiness and joy in any family. I went to meet Mike to talk about an upcoming litter and Bailey was sitting by herself. I pretty much changed my mind and wanted her immediately. She was introduced to a 6 year old cocker spaniel with and IVDD condition and they became best friends. Great Temperament, Incredibly smart and absolutely beautiful addition to my family. Mike has been following up since I got her checking to see if I had any issues. His training packet was detailed and if you follow the crate training and feeding regiment you will have no problems. Angelica I brought home an F2 labradoodle from here. My pups has already learned several commands within a few weeks of having him. The breeder has plenty of space for the pups and you can tell that there is a lot of care put into the environment. My dog has a great temperament and deals with people well. Upon the first meeting my pups was excited to greet people you can tell he had been socialized well. Mike does well with communication and answers any questions. Highly recommended! Javier Sanchez Got my black lab from Mike trained. He is very good and is comfortable with a crate, walking and great temperament. Overall an awesome dog from a great breeder! Maura Eaton My 12 year old son did all the research on Mike and his company. He had 5 star reviews across the board. Once we saw the picture of Zoey, a Chocolate Labradoodle, we knew we had to meet her. Mike's business is clean, the dogs are all loved by him and well trained. Zoey was Stage 1 trained. This is my first dog as an adult and Mike was excellent in providing advice and recommendations. After we adopted Zoey, Mike would periodically check-in on how Zoey was adjusting to her new family and home. As you can see in the pictures, she is very happy. Mike knew her personality well - smart, sweet and social. A perfect fit and addition to our family. He worked on training with the puppy before we brought him home, which was a big help in the adjustment! I would recommend Mike to anyone looking for a labradoodle puppy. Our puppy has been the best addition to our family and we have enjoyed working with Mike. John Schmadeke We were looking for a labradoodle puppy from a reputable and experienced breeder. Mike was super helpful, and we really appreciated that he cared so much about things like genetics and DNA testing for the dogs. Mike has always been available to answer our questions and to give advice. Tom Riniker We found Mike to be very professional, knowledgeable, and helpful when we purchased a puppy from him. His kennels are clean and organized, and his puppies are well cared for. He really loves his career and it shows! He has followed up with us on numerous occasions regarding the health and well-being of our puppy, and I always know I can reach him if I have questions. Thanks for everything, Mike! Yunhua Chen I have bought a stage 2 F1 labradoodle from Mike. His name is Zen, and just like his name, he is a well-behaved and well-trained little man. He only cried about 15 - 30 minutes during the first few nights and later he was sound asleep. I highly recommend Mike as a breeder because not only he deeply cares about the dogs, but also he has the expertise to make the dog the perfect match for you. Michelle Balchunas Mike was absolutely wonderful to deal with and very helpful with adding a new puppy to our family. If you are looking for a lab to add to your family we would highly recommend working with Mike. Charles Arnold Mike was a great help with our new puppy, Archie. Great experience… and a great dog. Junie is gentle, kind and very loving. She's also extremely athletic and smart. Working with Mike was a very smooth process and his "dog siting" service has proved helpful as I do travel on occasion. Having someone I could trust to care for Junie is super helpful. Mike James I recently had the fortunate privilege of working with Mike to find my next pup. For multiple reasons, the breed is perfect for me - the temperament, lifestyle often on the water , and hypoallergenic fits a tough lifestyle. I without hesitation recommend you work with Mike if you are looking for an amazing pup and great support network. Charlie is so gentle. He was just outside getting petted by his fan club, the neighbors. He licks. I got him the week of July 4th he was outside during that noise. He looks at noise. One of his other puppies was the same way, gentle. Day one he knew the trail through the woods back to our house. Charlie is a beautiful Chocolate lab with the softest hair. I got him at 16 weeks. You have no idea how helpful that is. Of course you want a healthy dog. Took the shots like a champ. The Vet remarked how firm his joints were. Yes he lets you brush his teeth! He goes to the door when he has to go. Another reason I wanted a 16 week pup. Peanut butter to continue gentle licks on my fingers. He always gets small chicken or liver for COME. You should see him come. Is Charlie gentle because some hunting dogs have a gentle mouth or is he gentle because Mike treated him right? Oh do exactly as Mike says on the take home instructions, he knows his dogs! Highly recommend! We brought our pup home with all the documentation of his superior genetics. Mike also sends several handouts which help prepare you for puppy ownership and ensure a smooth transition for your pup to his new home! In addition to his exceptional breeding he is exceptionally well-trained. We opted for a stage 2 puppy and not only does he sit, lay down, stay, he has an incredibly calm demeanor and his additional exposure to other dogs was also incredible. He is so well-tempered and well-behaved due to his additional training. We are so happy and in love with our sweet boy! Brent Viditz-Ward We were looking for a chocolate lab puppy for a long time from a reputable breeder and our experience with Mike was wonderful. He took time to get to know us and make sure that the dog was going to a good home and is always available to answer questions, give advice, etc. I highly recommend Mike and his puppies! M Fowkes Mike is a fantastic breeder. We got an F1 puppy from Mike. She is a sweet beautiful girl. Before she was born Mike knew what the puppies would look like generally, and was really easy to communicate with. He is very responsive when I had a lot of questions. He is like that even now that my puppy is 4 months old…available to answer questions and be supportive. Josie Palma-Aurelio We stumbled on this website when we were looking for our next fur baby. All the reviews speak truthful about Mike. He calls us to check on Nala for updates and gives us pointers on how to take care of her. Nala is such a lovable puppy and we are so happy to have her. We highly recommend! Juan Tellez Mike was a great helping my family and puppy get adjusted to our home. You can tell Mike has a lot of dedication and love towards his dogs. Snoop has been a great addition to our family! We are first time pet owners and Mike handheld us through the entire adoption process. His reference material, responsiveness and his genuine care for the puppies has helped us navigate the critical period of 12 weeks smoothly. The puppy is super smart outwitted me in a game of hide n seek when he was 10 weeks old! He is a bundle of joy! We are first time pet owners and had a lot of questions! He is always enthusiastic in answering any questions we have and supporting us before and after getting the pup! He cares about his dogs and pups and it shows in the research he has done and the knowledge he has about them! He has a lot of information on his website about the breed, food, toys and snacks! He also gives a couple of handouts when we book a pup with him and some when we take them home! Those helped a lot in the preparation for our pup! When you take them home, he also gives you details about the breed, vaccination records, and DNA testing done for the litter! Our girl, Shuri, is very energetic and curious! She does really well when we train her and has already learnt so much! For anyone looking for a labradoodle, Mike is the best! Jocelyn I highly recommend Mike. We are first time dog owners and he made the process so easy for us. Our labradoodle has made an excellent addition to our family!

During this stage a pug puppy is experiencing everything for the first time. He's also learning what it means to be a dog -- lessons that will stick with him for the rest of his life. The First Two Weeks During the first two weeks of your pug puppy's life, he'll be pretty focused on doing two things: eating and sleeping. Newborn pups spend the day nestled with their mother and siblings, suckling and napping and occasionally readjusting to get comfortable. Their eyes are still closed, and they can't see or hear, but they can feel the warmth of their mother and litter mates around them. Keep in mind that it's normal for pug puppies to breathe rapidly when they're sleeping because of their snubbed noses. But, if a puppy is wheezing, you should contact your vet right away. Age Two to Three Weeks In the two to three week stage, your pug puppy will begin to emerge from his constant slumber. Once his eyes are open, he'll build his ability to respond to light, movement and sound. He may try to crawl around his whelping box, until he wears himself out and needs another nap. Since he's more aware of his surroundings, he'll begin to recognize his mom, brothers, sisters and you. Now that your baby pug has all his senses, you can begin handling him gently for short periods of time. Always respect the pup's mother when handling her babies -- if she seems uncomfortable, return the puppy to the nest. Age Three to Four Weeks Your little pug will really perk up when he hits three to four weeks old. By now his eyes, ears, and nose are fully functioning. He'll see you coming and know that good things are headed his way. At this point your puppy is an adorable little sponge, constantly absorbing information about his surroundings. Because pug pups are so susceptible at this stage, it's important to keep their experiences positive. This is also the time when he starts to learn what typical pug behavior is really all about. Now that your pug pup's eyes are fully functional, check them for any sign of disease. Many eye diseases afflict pugs in particular because their eyes are so prominent. Check your pups for common pug eye diseases like Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca chronic dry eye and Pigmentary Karatitus spots on the cornea. If you suspect that any of the pups have an eye disease you should talk to your vet immediately. Age Four to Six Weeks And so the training begins. At four weeks old, your little pug is playing with his litter mates, who are all learning what to do and not to do as far as proper pup interaction goes. This is also a critical time in your puppy's life because it's when his mother begins to wean him. Pug puppies can start eating regular dog food at four weeks old, in combination with mother's milk, until they're fully weaned. Even though he's learning to make it on his own, it's still crucial for your baby pug to stay with his family. Experts consider weeks three to sixteen to be the most important time for learning appropriate dog behavior. During this window your pup will learn how to play with other dogs appropriately, how to respect their pack leader their mom , and where it is and is not OK to go potty. At six weeks old, your baby pug isn't ready to leave his mama's side, but soon he will be. When he reaches seven to eight weeks of age, as long as he's well-adjusted and happy, he should be ready to leave the nest and begin his life with his forever family. More Articles. Overview When you have a dog from the age of a young pup, this gives you a wonderful opportunity. It offers you a chance to bond with your dog from the very beginning. This also gives you an advantage because you will be able to train and teach your pup what they need to know before they learn any bad behavior from elsewhere. This section will discuss how to care for a Pug puppy, starting at 8 weeks old and up until he or she is an adult, at the age of 1 year. Transition to a New Home Things will run much smoother if you plan ahead and have most, if not all, of your puppy care items already in your home. Here are the most important items to have: A crate — One with an adjustable size is best to fit the needs of a growing Pug puppy. Crating is a good night time method to use until a pup is housebroken. Gates or a playpen — Choosing an area to gate off or using a canine playpen are good options for when you must leave your Pug puppy home alone or for when you cannot be right at his side. This keeps the pup in a controlled space which helps in regard to bathroom needs and keeping a puppy in one area when he or she has strong chewing urges. Puppy food — This should be obtained before the puppy is brought home. Owners will not always agree with the food that a puppy has been being fed, however any change should be done gradually. Have the food that the Pug has been used to eating on hand, as well as your new choice. Details regarding making this change can be found here: Feeding a Pug. You'll also want them to be sized appropriately and at floor level. Honey — Puppies are prone to the condition of hypoglycemia, which is a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Stress, among other things, can bring this on and while going to a new home is a happy event, it can also be stressful for a little pup that is leaving all that he knew and no longer has the companionship and friendship of his litter-mates. Treatment can be provided at home as plans are being made to bring the puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinarian. A small dab of honey is rubbed onto the gums and then the puppy should receive professional treatment, sometimes an IV to restore sugar levels back to normal. Leash, collar and harness — Pugs are prone to conditions that involve breathing problems. The body structure of this breed confines breathing passages into a small space and Pugs can have smaller than normal nasal passages and openings stenotic nares. For this reason, using a harness can help a Pug breathe easier when on leash. A short 6 foot leash works best for both potty training and heeling. Read more : Choosing the Best Collar and Harness for a Pug Grooming supplies — The thick coat of a Pug sheds heavily and brushing it well and offering baths on a regular basis can help control shedding. Starting dental care at a young age can help a puppy become used to this grooming element and set up a foundation for a life time of good dental hygiene practices. Keeping the wrinkles, eyes and ears clean are important part of caring for a Pug puppy. Read more: Shedding - Expect your Pug to shed a lot and be prepared by having the right tools. Dental care - Taking care of your Pug's teeth should be high on your priority list. Ears - Expected shapes and proper care. Wrinkles - Keeping the wrinkles dry and clean. Sleeping supplies - Some owners prefer to have their puppy sleep in the bed with them and while this is not always a bad thing, an owner should think about how that will play out as the pup matures into a much larger adult dog. Having a pup get used to his own canine bed from the beginning, set up in a quiet corner of a room, may work out best. Do keep in mind that Pugs crave human companionship and do not like to feel isolated. Setting up the bed in a quiet corner of a well-used room allows a Pug to have a nice area to retreat to for rest and sleep while allowing him to be close to his human family. It will be normal for a little one to sleep anywhere from 16 to 18 hours a day.This included both night time sleep and naps that will be taken throughout the day. Chew Toys — Teething will begin around the age of 3 or 4 months old and can last up until a Pug puppy is 8 months old. Having a good supply of toys on hand for a puppy to chew on is important. Puppy Proofing Before bringing a puppy home and on a regular basis at least weekly owners are encouraged to go over all floors to remove any small objects that could be accidentally swallowed. All items that could be chewed on such as pocket books and shoes should be placed up high until the Pug has matured. Whining It is normal for very young puppies to cry when first brought to a new home, this usually only lasts for a week or so as the pup becomes used to his new family and environment. This can also be a sign of needing to go to the bathroom, so following house training guidelines, be sure to take your Pug puppy outside on a regular basis. Vaccinations for the Pug Puppy An important part of caring for your puppy will be to make sure he or she is up-to-date for all needed vaccinations. An 8-week-old should already have received his shots, as well as a de-worming. Veterinarians will have varying schedules, however this is a general guideline: 5 weeks Parvovirus: For puppies at high risk of exposure to parvo, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating at 5 weeks. Dogs at high risk are those that live in areas where wild life raccoon, skunk, deer, etc. The inclusion of either canine adenovirus-1 or adenovirus-2 in a vaccine will protect against both adenovirus cough and hepatitis; adenovirus-2 is highly preferred. You will want to talk to your veterinarian about this. Reactions to Vaccines Immunizations are intended to stimulate the immune system to then protect a dog against a specific infectious disease. It is very important to have your Pug receive all needed vaccinations. Your Pug may react to immunizations in ways that range from soreness at the site of injection to mild fever to allergic reactions. The allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Mild- Mild reactions include fever, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. Mild reactions usually resolve without any treatment needed. This is called Urticaria. This happens when there is a reaction of the skin and shows as hives or bumps. It is usually extremely itchy. Urticaria may progress to anaphylaxis, which is considered life-threatening. However, Urticaria is the most common reaction in dogs if a reaction is to happen. Severe - The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This is a very fast, sudden, severe allergic response that causes breathing difficulties, collapse and possible death. This is very rare. Urticaria the moderate and most common reaction, if one is to occur happens soon after vaccination, often even before the puppy is brought home. It can happen in the car while you are driving back to your house. Your veterinarian will recommend immediate return to the hospital for treatment. Urticaria is usually treated successfully with injectable corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone. Antihistamines do little to help with acute allergic reactions but may be given by injection to help prevent recurrence of symptoms after steroids wear off. Mild vaccination reactions usually require no treatment. However, if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. Growth Rate A Pug puppy grows quickly and this can happen gradually or with spurts and stops. Many Pug puppies have a growth spurt near the 3 to 5 month mark. As the pup nears the 1 year mark, growth will slow down. Once a Pug reaches his or her full height, there may still be some growth in the width of the Pug, as the chest widens and fills out. How a Pug ages and his growth is rapid, yet can be staggered during the first year. Getting Your Puppy Comfortable One of the most important parts of bringing a puppy home is allowing him or her to become used to their new surroundings. Allow your pup to roam around and check out his new environment. Be sure to keep a puppy's water in one designed spot so that the pup can know that it can always be found. The drinking and feeding area should be in a quite corner of a room, without much foot traffic or noise, since small puppies can feel vulnerable while eating. The absolute longest that a 2 month old pup can hold their needs is 2 hours. The bladder and bowel muscles are not yet fully developed. As they grow older, this time will increase as they have more control over their body. Usually it will increase by 1 hour for each month that goes by. Therefore, a 3 month old can hold on for about 3 hours, a 4 month old for about 4 hours and so on.With 8 hours being the maximum time for any age. Informational Note: When your 2 month old needs to go outside at least every 2 hours, be sure to not get stuck into that habit.It is important to slowly increase the time intervals. Your 3 month old can wait about 3 hours, but only if you allow the pup to use his bowel and bladder muscles to work and grow stronger. If an owner always brought their Pug outside every 2 hours, the dog would never learn to hold their needs for a longer period of time. Keep reading about the best way to house train a Pug puppy. All puppy vaccinations should be given before you take him or her out to the park, to pet supply stores or any other area in which there may have been or could be other animals. Many new owners already have another dog in the household. As your puppy grows older and is receiving the needed vaccinations, you can slowly begin introducing your new puppy to other dogs and allow normal socialization to begin. The Necessities of Care To have a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into a happy and healthy adult dog, make sure to always provide the essentials: A proper diet. You will need to decide if you want to offer manufacture food, home cooked food or a combination of both. Pugs are very sensitive to their human's emotions. A hug goes a long way! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. As newborns they are deaf, bind, and largely immobile. They rely on their mom, or their breeder for food, warmth, and care. A Pug is Born! Unfortunately, the birthing process of Pugs is a difficult one. Flat-faced breeds, such as the Pug, are more likely to experience complications when giving birth. The Pug is also more likely to experience Dystocia, which is simply a term that means difficult or abnormal birth. Such situations put both the mother and her pups at risk. More often than not, the mother will require her pups to be delivered by a C-section. This is due to the fact that unborn Pugs have large and broad heads, whilst their mom has a very narrow pelvis. This awkward combination makes natural birth difficult. If the birth is successful, Pugs commonly have litters containing puppies, with 4 pups being the average. If your baby Pug is born naturally, their mother will next turn to chewing off the umbilical cord and cleaning them up. This is an important part of the bonding experience for mother dogs. The newborn Pugs will often nurse from their mother. When they are not nursing, they will spend the majority of their time sleeping. Newborn Pugs Pug pups begin their life fully reliant on their mother. They are born blind, deaf, and without teeth. A coat should be present, with the color being commonly either fawn or black. Fawn pups may experience their coat color lightening or darkening in shade as they mature. Their eyes and ears will be closed at birth and will remain this way for a while yet. Unable to support their own body weight, they will crawl on their stomach to get around. Baby Pugs are also not able to regulate their temperature, meaning that it is very important to stay warm. They will commonly clump together in piles, sharing body heat. Finally, the mother will also have to help her pups urinate and defecate as they are unable to do so by themselves. She does this by licking the anal and genital areas. One Week Old Baby Pug During the first week of life, baby Pug pups will either be nursing off their mother or sleeping. As they are still blind and deaf at this stage, they will not bother exploring or moving around more than necessary, spending most of their time lying close to their littermates and mother. Their weight should steadily increase every day. At the end of their first week of life, they should have doubled their birth weight, or at least come close. The owners of the pups will need to keep an eye on their breathing as brachycephalic breeds, such as the Pug, commonly have breathing issues. Two Week Old Baby Pug As we hit two weeks of age, we see a key development in the puppies growth; their eyes will open for the very first time! To begin with, their eye color will be blue, but will likely transition into a dark brown as they mature. Owners need to check over their eyes to ensure there are no issues, as this breed can be susceptible to ocular problems. At this stage, they may be a little more curious about their surroundings due to their newfound eyesight. However, they will still primarily be focused on sleeping and nursing. Their weight should continue to rise steadily over the coming weeks. By this time, the ears of the baby Pug pups will have opened. They will be able to hear for the first time and will begin reacting to more sounds. Their eyesight will also have developed significantly, with them being able to recognize their mother, littermates, and objects placed in their den. Along with their newfound perception of the world, they should now be able to support their own body weight and stand up. They may be able to walk, albeit with an unsteady gait. With all the interesting sights and sounds around them, they will likely be a lot more inquisitive of their surroundings. They may explore the den as much as their wobbly legs will carry them. The Pug puppies will also start teething, with their baby teeth coming through for the first time. This may start a passing interest in solid food. Gaining Independence On top of all this, they should now be able to urinate and defecate on their own, without any stimulation from their mother. We can also expect to see the start of the early socialization period. The puppies will begin developing behaviors and social skills for the first time, taking part in play with their littermates. Owners of the puppies should take advantage of this period to help them get used to human touch and presence. They will be establishing relationships with their mother, den mates, and people. Training can begin at this early stage. Despite the fact that their brains still have a lot of developing to do, a start can still be made on teaching them basic crate and potty training. They will also likely be much more mobile on their feet. Little adventures will be common and the puppies will play together often. Soft, easy to eat puppy food can be given. They will continue to rise in weight and keep learning social skills, with more complex behaviors being shown. While they seem a lot more independent at this stage, they will still require plenty of time with their mother and den mates before they are ready to be moved to a new home. Six Week Old Baby Pug At six weeks old, the Pug puppies are fast approaching the age where they reach full independence. By now, they should be fully weaned off their mother and placed onto solid food only. This is a big step. There is still much to learn. Up until now, the Pug puppies have been very curious and interested in completely new things. But they have always been safe under the watchful eye of their mom, too. Now, as they finally gain independence, the puppies learn to be cautious and careful; traits that keep them alive in the wild. Eight Week Old Baby Pug At eight weeks old, the Pug pups are developed enough to be able to leave their mother and littermates behind. They can be sold and moved into a new loving home. They should weigh around pounds. Training and Raising a Pug Resources Keep in mind that they still have a lot of developing to do; both physically and mentally! Remember, they are still within their fear period! Things learned here will make a big impact. Still, Thinking of Buying a Pug? The birthing process Sadly, baby pug births are renowned for their complications. Like many other brachycephalic dogs, pugs are prone to difficult births. This is often referred to as Dystocia. Natural birth is difficult. For this reason, the number of newborn baby pugs born by cesarean section is greater than average. Make sure mum is eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercises Visit your veterinarian for a six-week ultrasound, pelvic exam, and blood sugar testing Put together a cosey whelping box in a quiet and comfortable location. A cardboard box with a thick layer of newspaper will suffice Be ready with everything you need for the birth- clean towels, scissors, rubbing alcohol, and heating pads are a great start As the birth approaches, mamma pug will start acting a bit differently. Look out for nesting behaviors and change in appetite. Heavy panting, straining, and whimpering are signs that birth is imminent. If your dog shows any of these signs you will require professional assistance and must call your vet immediately. Most litters consist of between one and eight puppies in total. Puppies come out head-first in the amniotic sac. This is a natural and healthy behavior. You can cut the cord with a sterilized thread or apply some rubbing alcohol to a pair of scissors. When the puppies start to cry this is a great sign. Clean them off gently with a soft towel and encourage them to start nursing from their mamma. Newborn pups will need a lot of sleep. So be patient. Newborn Pugs: The Early Days Image source: Pinterest Remember that newborn baby pugs are born deaf, blind, toothless, and relatively immobile. These tiny creatures are entirely dependent on others during their early life. Mum will help them go to the bathroom and they will need help staying warm and well-nourished. This will take some time. Your puppies will crawl at first. This is completely normal. Newborn pugs cannot support their body weight yet. With time their mobility will improve. Something to consider- pugs are prone to respiratory difficulties, so look out for breathing problems early on. Even after a week, newborn pug puppies are blind and deaf. With their limited mobility, they are most likely to stay close to the litter. Things to monitor include weight and breathing. You should expect to notice a gradual increase in weight. Most baby pug puppies will double their birth weight after one week. Remember to keep checking their breathing, even as they start to mature. This is always a special moment. Step by step, your pups will gradually start exploring. There will still be a lot of sleeping involved. This is normal. Pug puppies start their lives with blue eyes but as they get older their eye coloration changes. Once maturity is reached, most pups will have dark brown eyes. They can now support their weight and move around. This means your bundles of joy will start to come into their own. Your puppies can now hear, urinate, and defecate independently. As they grow in confidence, they will become fascinated by their new senses and surroundings. Look out for their reactions as they discover the world for the first time. At three weeks, eyesight is developing quickly. Three-week-old baby pug puppies can recognize their mother, siblings, and immediate surroundings. This is a social time and the perfect opportunity to get your pups used to human touch. But always be gentle and go slowly. Your pups will start to develop social skills and become more playful. Enjoy watching them interact with their littermates and get up to lots of mischiefs. The three-week mark is also teething time. This is when your puppies will be learning about their world. Enjoy watching your litter play and tumble. Prioritize socializing at this time and begin some basic training exercises. Glorious Food. Expect Hungry Pups by Week 5 Week five is for progress. Weaning is a slow and steady process. Let your pup experiment with solid foods and gradually reduce their milk consumption. This is a delicate developmental milestone for young dogs. They will need to stay with their litter a while longer before looking for a forever home. Nearly There. Pug Pups at 6 Weeks By 6 weeks, it can seem that your pups are seasoned professionals at, well, being a dog. Give them time to find their feet. Baby Pugs: Expect a Confidence Wobble in Week 7 After seven weeks, your pups will have gotten used to being more independent. At this stage, you must be cautious with even the most confident of puppies. Pushing a young pup too far, too soon is a recipe for disaster. If your pup seems to have lost some confidence, try using counter-conditioning to get them back on track. Here are my 5 top tips for healthy, happy pups: 1. Your pups will need vaccinations and health check-ups throughout their life. Start training early but gradually for happy pups and happy owners. Portion food according to food type and age. Remember that pugs are prone to obesity so resist those wide-eyed looks and keep treats to a minimum. FAQs 1. Where can I get a baby pug? You can source your baby pug pup from one of several locations. One option is to visit a certified breeder. Make sure that they are reputable and ensure you take a visit before picking up your pup, to check out the breeding conditions. Another way to source your pup is through a pet shop. Buying a puppy from a pet shop. Ask lots of questions and make the most of their expertise. With so many dogs out there needing homes, rehoming an abandoned or homeless animal, pug or not, is a truly amazing thing to do. How much does it cost to get a baby pug? Depending on where you live and how you choose to source your puppy, prices will vary. Take a look at this pricing roundup for clearer international price points. Pugs can make healthy, happy, friendly companions. Check out the video below for Pug puppies from the first day to day 33!

An empty outlined icon indicating the option to save an item Save Article play icon The triangle icon that indicates to play Any dog lover can agree that when it comes to deciding on which cuddly cutie you want to take home as your own , the options can be a bit overwhelming. There are so many different types of bulldogs — American, French, Victorian, the list goes on! You could choose to invest your time and love into one of the larger breeds see: Bullmastiff , which is likely to serve as the ultimate guard dog. Regardless of the type of bulldog you pick, know that overall, they are sociable, friendly and gentle pups that make great family pets. Get to know the different bulldogs a little more: 1 American bulldog KJG Photography, Kim Guisti These loyal and self-confident cuties have traditionally been known as work dogs. After coming to America in the s, they aided farmers and ranchers as guard dogs and catch dogs. Today you can expect these athletic and agile mid-sized dogs to get along well with children and other dogs. They are also easily trainable. Most American bulldogs weigh pounds and have a year life expectancy, according to the American Kennel Club. They are super affectionate towards children, and can grow between 77 and 83 pounds. It keeps the same loyalty as the English breed, but can be a bit taller and suffer from less breathing issues. When properly socialized and trained, they can also learn to channel their energy into work. But beware, the lovable cuties do tend to slobber. The Victorian bulldog has many of the same calm, friendly and playful characteristics as the English bulldog, but can live years longer. It also is known to get along well with children. Experts say that proper training and multiple walks a day are essential to committing to the care of a Catahoula bulldog. Though their size may be intimidating, they are actually gentle giants that are great with children and highly trainable, according to the AKC. Bullmastiffs typically weigh between and pounds. It's known to be a loyal dog that gets along great with other pups as well as children. They can weigh up to pounds, and grow to about 26 inches in height. Their ability to sense danger and weariness of strangers makes them adaptable guard dogs when they have the right training. They are great for apartment living and are super affectionate. They typically weigh between 45 and 66 pound s. Because of its gentle and loving nature, it is usually touted as a wonderful family pet, according to UKC. These adorable pups are extremely loyal and love their families. They are also the perfect small breed, weighing just about 20 to 45 pounds and standing between 12 and 16 inches tall. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping. They have a specific look, personality, and temperament that may not be for every new or previous dog owner. But if you follow a bunch of French or American bulldog accounts for their utter cuteness, then adopting a pup from one of the dozens of bulldog breeds out there is probably a dog match made in Heaven. Still, it can be a long and emotional decision process that requires time and thought, which is why we've rounded up some of the most adorable, loving , loyal, and kid-friendly types of bulldogs to help you find the best bulldog for your home. Regardless of breed, all bulldogs have that standout muscular build with a pushed in nose, small ears, and rolling gait. They have a short and smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors. Some types can even be classified as large dogs while other breeds are more of a tiny dog. Although bulldogs love curling up in your lap, they are not strictly lazy dogs and enjoy moderate exercise. That said, many can live happily in a city apartment or a countryside home with a backyard. What's important is that you give these pups the care and attention they need so they are fed a proper diet and are trained well from a young age. They should also stay in air-conditioned rooms in hot or humid weather as their short snout makes breathing difficult. Bulldogs are a popular choice for many families across the U. They may act powerful and confident, but all bulldogs still need lots of love and care. If you are considering adopting a bulldog, familiarize yourself with the following types of bulldogs before heading over to a trusted adoption site to welcome your newest cuddle buddy to the family. They have a short and soft coat in various colors. Although American Bulldogs may appear intimidating with a large head and height of 20 to 28 inches, they are actually extremely gentle and affectionate. According to Pet MD, they're known to be a "big lap dog" that loves children. They are also brave dogs; in fact, there are countless stories across the internet of American Bulldogs saving their owners from fires or other serious accidents. They have a bulldog's personality in a small dog's body — which means they are playful, alert, and totally irresistible watchdogs. They're known for their bat ears , according to the American Kennel Club. Their adorable wrinkles roll around their short nose, adding to their charming personality. Frenchies are also super adaptable which makes them a great choice for single dog owners, couples, or families. They also don't require a lot of exercise so you won't necessarily have to get up early for that morning walk and they get along great with other animals if you already have a furry family at home. They're very affectionate dogs who want to be around their humans constantly, and they're especially big fans of kids. English Bulldogs weigh around 50 pounds depending on whether they are male or female, and require moderate exercise about 20 to 40 minutes per day. It's important to note that English Bulldogs are particularly at risk for breathing problems , heart problems, and other health issues due to how they've been bred. So if you adopt an English Bulldog, make sure you stay on top of their vet visits. Like all other bulldogs, they love being part of a family and won't leave your side. They are affectionate, loyal, and intelligent dogs who weigh between 50 and 78 pounds. These bulldogs were bred to adapt to the Australian environment as their breed name suggests , which means they may be more active than their cousins but aren't the most active dog out there. They have a similar build to other bulldogs, but they're athletic and have a bit more stamina. Their ears can be perky or hanging and they have thick, powerful necks and stocky legs. They have a short coarse coat that can come in solid colors ranging from fawn to black and white. Olde English Bulldogges are loyal, protective, and docile, making them great for families but also athletic dog owners. These bulldogs also have a longer lifespan than other breeds, living up to as many as 12 yaers. That said, they are taller than English Bulldogs at about 17 to 19 inches and have a larger snout plus fewer wrinkles. This means their face isn't so squished that it inhibits their breathing. They have similar personality traits to other bulldogs such as being super loyal and protective, but very gentle and affectionate. Victorian Bulldogs demand lots of attention as they can suffer from separation anxiety, but they aren't overly active dogs — so just curling up with them at night is enough comfort. Unlike some other bulldog breeds, they are incredibly energetic and athletic, meaning they'll need quite a bit of exercise. These bulldogs are very intelligent, loyal, and protective, making them stellar watchdogs. DogTime notes that you can often find them in shelters and breed-specific rescues, and recommends generally trying to adopt a bulldog breed before shopping for one. Before the s, the English then brought over their bulldogs and mastiffs. Ca de Bous are quiet, playful, and friendly family dogs, but they won't let you down as a watchdog either thanks to their loyal, courageous, and protective traits. They do, however, need socialization and training from an early age since they were originally bred to be fighting dogs. They have a short coat and can weigh between 66 to 88 pounds. Ca de Bous also have a longer lifespan of up to 12 years. Alapaha Blue-Bloods are protective and possessive, but they are also playful and devoted dogs. With the proper training and socialization, they enjoy playing with children and love attention. Vet Street notes that they are best suited to more experienced dog owners who can train them well from a young age. These bulldogs can also be a bit indifferent towards strangers and don't necessarily get along great with other dogs so they may thrive best if they are your only household pup. Mastiffs and Bulldogs were breeded together to develop a stealthy and fast dog that could help gamekeepers stop poachers from stealing. These impressive and cunning canines protected the lives of gamekeepers and poachers. They are larger bulldogs, clocking in at to pounds and reaching 24 to 27 inches in height, but they aren't aggressive towards other dogs and can behave well around their furry friends with proper care. But don't be deceived by the breed's history, these bulldogs are huge cuddle buddies who just want to be in the same room as their owner. Since they are a larger breed, they are more susceptible to bloat which requires emergency surgery and can be fatal. They have a shorter life span, as well, at 7 to 9 years. Indeed, they are discerning and confident dogs who can be aggressive towards other dogs and animals if not trained from an early age. While they are gentle towards children, it is recommended that they receive proper training from an early age so they are more welcoming towards strangers. Red-Tiger Bulldogs thrive best with a daily long walk but can do just as well living in an apartment as at a home with a yard. Typically, they have a "mantle" coat design with at least 70 percent color and no more than 30 percent white fur. They weigh between 75 and pounds and can live up to 16 years, making them one of bulldog breeds with the longest life expectancy. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B. They have looks to swoon and sloppy kisses to give. The 13 Types of Bulldog Breeds 1. Their famous wrinkly face and stocky body have left an impression on dog lovers everywhere. These beefy canines are short but stable, weighing an average of pounds. While they may be slightly intimidating-looking because of their structure, they are quite docile and affectionate. Most are laid back and lackadaisical, making them patient and loving toward children. They serve as great companions who are highly sociable and gregarious. They get along great with other pets when properly socialized. However, they may show territorial aggression toward unfamiliar dogs. Because of their watchdog nature, they will also alert you if they sense a potential threat. The lifespan of this breed ranges between 8 and 10 years. As a result of generations of poor breeding, they suffer multiple health issues like cancer, heart failure, allergies, skinfold infections, and breathing obstructions. When full-grown, these brutes weigh between 60 and pounds. While they are friendly, they are on guard, defensive, and protective of their owners. They are alpha-minded , so it is important to show them you are boss from an early age to set the hierarchy of the household. Unlike their sluggish cousins, they are equipped with stamina, strength, and athletic abilities. They will require moderate exercise. Because they are more active, toys can ease boredom and deflect destructiveness. The lifespan of this breed ranges between 9 and 14 years. Contrary to other bull breeds , health issues remain low risk. The most commonly noted problem is hip dysplasia. French Bulldog Image Credit: Patryk Kosmider, Shutterstock These little guys have an adorably distinct look, making them instantly recognizable to most. They are one of the tiniest bull breeds with oversized pointed ears and a smooshed snout. These dogs are compact, weighing only 20—28 pounds as adults. These stout little cuties are excellent companion animals. They exhibit traits like playfulness, curiosity, and an eagerness to please. While they may not require extensive exercise, they do love to romp. They are very excitable, mouthy, and humorous. While sweet, they may be a little selfish with attention, which can cause jealous inclinations toward other pets. The lifespan of this breed ranges from 10—14 years. They are susceptible to health issues like allergies, breathing problems, and ear infections. While they carry facial similarities, such as the shorter nose and face wrinkles, they have thinner and longer frames. An adult American Bulldog weighs an average of 60— pounds. They are known to be big, goofy lapdogs who live to love you. American Bulldogs are also incredibly brave and ready to defend. They are very doting toward children and tend to get along well with other animals. They are cautious of newcomers but generally stranger-friendly. Muscular and athletically built, they are agile and high-energy. They will need appropriate exercise to accommodate their dynamic personalities. If they do not have a proper outlet, they may develop destructive tendencies. They can suffer from health conditions like cherry eye, hip dysplasia, ACL tears, and thyroid issues. It is highly intelligent, physically capable, and easily trainable. They are a well-statured dog weighing between 55 and 88 pounds. While very lovable, loyal, and nurturing towards their masters and children, they rarely share the sentiment for outsiders. They have a dominant disposition, so they must have adequate and assertive training. They were initially purposed as work dogs and should get plenty of physical activity. Because of their hardiness and adaptability to weather, many thrive as outdoor pets. The lifespan of this breed ranges from 11—14 years. They are incredibly resistant to illness or disorders. While they can suffer from many generalized problems any dog could have, they are very healthful. They maintain a closely similar look, making them nearly indistinguishable from their English cousins. Full-grown, they weigh between 50 and 75 pounds. This dog has the same happy-go-lucky personality, calm disposition, and squishy rolls of the English Bulldog. They are also just as vastly affectionate and emotionally intuitive. The lifespan of this breed is 12—14 years. Because of selective breeding, problems for them are much rarer. The only remaining concern is skin-related conditions, such as allergies and infections. They are known for their coat of many colors, intensively vivid eyes, and pleasant attitudes. The mixture produces a beautiful companion dog. They are incredibly loyal, situationally protective, and brilliant. Not only do they make fantastic family pets, but they also serve as efficient work and guard dogs. The lifespan of this breed is 13—15 years. They are prone to blindness, deafness, and hip dysplasia. They are typically very good-natured but may be a challenge for inexperienced dog owners. They are quite large, weighing 55—99 pounds. It is best to socialize them from adolescence. These animals are very loving to their owners. However, because they are so muscular, they can be hard to manage. Training them to be obedient and well-mannered is a necessity. This breed serves as an excellent watchdog. The lifespan of this breed is 12—13 years. They have the classic ailments of many bull breeds, including hip dysplasia, eye issues, deafness, and skin problems. This thick, sturdy powerhouse is known for its massive, blocky head. They are in the medium-size range and weigh up to 84 pounds. They are incredibly devoted to their families and fondly patient with children. However, because of their enormous size and keen intelligence, establishing a hierarchy in the relationship is essential. They need to respect owners and know you are the alpha. They have a very high defensiveness alert. If trained to channel this instinct properly, they are excellent watchdogs. The lifespan of this breed is 10—12 years. They are a stocky build with ears cropped inward, making them look somewhat intimidating. Full-grown, they weigh between 70 and pounds. They are lovely family pets, as they are gentle and loyal. They have an aversion toward strangers and will be suspicious of new people. They also have a very high prey drive, making them potentially dangerous to smaller animals. The lifespan of this breed is 12—16 years. While they thrive, puppies must get adequate nutrition. Mammut Bulldog Image Credit: Connie Sinteur, Shutterstock These beautiful creatures are the combined product of only bulldog bloodlines. Because of their longer snouts, they have less breathing trouble. They are also leaner and more agile than some bull breeds. These dogs are medium-sized, weighing up to 60 pounds as adults. They are kind and loving towards all people in their tight-knit families. Strangers and other animals can be a different story. They can be reserved, shy, or even aggressive toward outsiders. Due to their athleticism and breeding, they can be activity-intense in a variety of temperatures. They may be stubborn and hard to handle if not raised with discipline. The lifespan of this breed is 9—11 years. While not notably unhealthy, they can struggle with breathing and skin issues. They are quite a popular bull breed and are known for their loveable personalities. They are hefty, weighing up to pounds. They make incredible additions to families with children and other pets. Bullmastiffs are warm-hearted, devoted, and shielding. They are not inherently aggressive without proper provocation, but they do make excellent watchdogs. Because of their large size, they will need proper care to develop appropriate manners. That is manageable with proper rearing. Sadly, the lifespan of the Bullmastiff is only 7—9 years, which is not uncommon for a dog of this size. They have risks for hip dysplasia, thyroid complications, skin ailments, and bloat. Not only are their looks on par, but they also share similar personality traits. These husky canines are short in stature and weigh an average of 50—78 pounds. They are highly adaptable to many environments, making them suitable for both small and spacious living. While they may have issues with dominance, they tend to get along quite well with humans and creatures alike. They are exceedingly intelligent , charmingly spirited, and fiercely loyal. Because of their breeding, they have a reduced number of ailments. However, they are prone to heat-related issues and skin infections. Each has an exceptional array of personality, purpose, and appeal. Bull breeds will continue to develop , adding even more quality to existing bloodlines. They are everything on the spectrum from large to small, stoical to silly, and lazy to ambitious. You are sure to find one that stands out above the rest. One thing is for sure—there is no shortage of diversity here. She currently works as a relief veterinarian for various emergency and specialty hospitals. Washington recognizes the importance of education and also works as a freelance veterinary writer. Although the bulldog is the most popular bulldog type breed, several other breeds fall into the bulldog family. Most bulldog breeds are wonderful for families, including families with kids. That means no pulling on ears or tails, no attempts to ride the dog, and giving the dog personal space when it needs it. Additionally, an adult should always supervise all interactions between kids and dogs of any breed. Breed Characteristics Bulldog-type breeds vary in size, from the smallest the French bulldog to the largest the Dogue de Bordeaux with several bulldog breeds falling somewhere in between. Bulldog breeds also differ somewhat in personality, though most bulldogs tend to be a little bullheaded i. Some bulldog breeds are moderately energetic and others are couch potatoes. Bulldogs are brachycephalic , which means they have flattened faces with short muzzles. Brachycephalic breeds more easily become overheated, especially in very warm weather, so they must be kept cool and not exercised in hot temperatures. Many bulldog breeds also have droopy jowls, and underbites, which can lead to drooling. For hundreds of years the bulldog was used in England for bullbaiting, a gruesome sport that was outlawed in early s. Back then the bulldog larger and more ferocious than the mellow couch potato we know and love today. The transformation came about when breeders sought to remake the bulldog into a sweet family pet rather than a fierce fighter. The breed is a popular school mascot and family dog. They are famous for their friendships with children, making the bulldog an excellent companion for families. In the mids, some toy-sized bulldogs were being bred in England, and they were brought to France with their emigrating owners. In France, these small bulldogs were bred with other breeds, possibly pugs and small terriers, and transformed to the French bulldog we know today, a small bulldog with large bat ears and a huge personality. French bulldogs, or Frenchies as they are affectionately known, are exceptional companions, particularly with children. They are adaptable, active and playful with very steady temperaments. Back then bulldogs were much larger and taller than the short, stocky bulldogs we know today. In the New World, farmers and ranchers put these bulldogs to use as working dogs, where they were especially good at guarding the homestead, herding, catching livestock and hunting feral pigs. American Bulldogs are loyal, affectionate and known for being great with kids. The olde English bulldogge should mirror the looks of the bull baiting bulldogs of the early s. The Olde English bulldogge possesses the drive, temperament and agility to perform for sport or working purposes, but is confident, friendly and alert—never vicious. They are excellent companions for both adults and children. After the French Revolution, the dogue de Bordeaux saw yet another career change—this time being used to drive livestock. Though they may be standoffish with strangers, the dogue de Bordeaux is very affectionate with its beloved family. Most bulldog breeds are considered good with children, but this is provided the dog is well bred and well socialized and trained as a puppy and beyond. Some large, assertive breeds that resemble bulldogs are not the best choices for families with kids, including the cane Corso and dogo Argentino. The bullmastiff , which was created by breeding mastiffs with bulldogs, can be good with kids if well socialized to them, but their massive size can be intimidating for small children. They have so many different characteristics throughout the different variations of this wonderful breed. Bulldogs are well-known and loved for their iconic wrinkles, expressive faces, and cuddly stocky build. Bulldogs come in all different breeds and variations, but they all have the same distinctive muscular frame, pushed-in nose, tiny ears, and rolling gait. Below, we have listed the top 16 most popular bulldog breeds. As you will see, the variety in the breed is vast. They come in many different colors and hues, with some classified as tiny dogs and some as giant dogs. These little dogs are absolutely adorable, with their square heads and big ears. In addition to being cute , Frenchies are also known for their funny snorting noises. They can be quite a stubborn breed, especially when training them as a pup, but overall they are great companion dogs, and will quickly become a well loved member of your family. The English bulldog, so-called for its role in the bloodsport of bull baiting, appears to have been originated in the British Isles before the 13th century. The Olde English Bulldogge is a medium-sized, powerful dog with strong muscles and fluid, swift movement. They appear capable of performing without any breathing difficulties in hot or cold conditions since they are balanced and proportionate. Serious flaws in the breed include excessive wrinkles and a lack of colour around the mouth, nose, and eyes. They have a friendly temperament with a high level of alertness. They are confident, loving, courageous and strong. They are descended from the Old English Bulldog, which is supposed to have been brought to America by working-class immigrants from England as early as the 17th century. American Bulldogs are frequently exuberant, confident, outgoing, and comfortable around their families. They form close bonds with their owners and are happiest when they can receive lots of time and attention from them. This included making them both taller and with fewer health issues than the English Bulldog, yet they still have the short, round, wrinkly features that makes them a traditional Bulldog! These pups are low maintenance and make excellent family companions due to their love for people, especially children. The English Bulldog was first used for bull and bear baiting in England as far back as the s. Back then, the English Bulldog was a taller and heavier dog than it is today. Luckily, a few breeders wanted to save the English Bulldog and kept breeding and the first Bulldog breed club was formed in .It has at various points served as a military dog, a bullfighting dog, a cattle manager, a hunting dog, and a guard dog. The Alano has been employed as a military dog since the Middle Ages. Since then, like many other bulldog breeds, it has been used as a guard dog, for boar and deer hunting, and for managing cattle in pastures and slaughterhouses. With its loved ones and acquaintances, this breed is incredibly loving. It is also excellent with kids and very patient. They rarely bark and are dependable, stable, and very submissive. The Alano, however, will monitor outsiders suspiciously and will attack with very little warning when it feels threatened. These puppies, who were agile, active, and devoted, have some of the greatest traits from both of their parents. American Mastahoulas is another name for Catahoula Bulldogs. The Catahoula Bulldog has short, sleek hair and skin that is tight. While the Catahoula Bulldog is known for its placid demeanour, this breed can also show its alert side when called upon. They are very trainable, faithful, and devoted to their families. This breed is eager to please its master and responds well to consistent, early training. They are great with kids. The Catahoula Bulldog has a very expressive way of communicating through its ears. Useful as a guard or watch dog. There are times when they are employed for hunting or trapping. They are a well-balanced dog, that will think things through carefully before acting upon their instincts. Both their bark and their piercing look serve as warnings to the visitor, giving him the opportunity to flee if they so chooses. They are gentle with their masters and loves children. Strong and muscular, with a massive skull and short muzzle. They were bred in the American South to herd livestock and trap strays. Alapahas have a reputation for being attentive, sociable, and assured. They are reserved with newcomers and avoid dogs they are unfamiliar with. They make great family pets for those with the proper training and environment. It possesses a bold personality, along with the assurance and intelligence to match. It makes a good working dog, from agility to protection training and beyond. This dog is great for families and makes a wonderful pet. The breed gets along well with young ones. It is very resistant to pain. The best way for owners to handle their pets is with calm determination, consistency, and love. The dog will act stubbornly if he thinks you lack the mental fortitude to be the pack leader. As long as their owner is confident and authoritative, they make great pets. The Australian bulldog is a well-mannered dog that is also smart, affectionate, and loyal. This is a laid-back breed that gets along well with kids and enjoys playing. It is playful and aquatic, and will enjoy playing with a ball or Frisbee. Although its presence may discourage potential intruders, the dog is best used as a watchdog rather than a guard dog. This newish breed of bulldog has eyes that are set into the top of its cushioned muzzle. Nostrils are huge and well-shaded, and the nose itself is quite large. Thicker than average neck and well-developed muscles complement small ears that hang close to the head. The chests of these dogs are extremely large. Its tail is broad and thick. Tiny but sturdy legs. In general, this dog appears to be quite athletic. The Amitola is bred to have moderate wrinkling, a lot of muscle, and agility sufficient for routine sports like swimming and weight pulling as well as for withstanding the intense heat of the South and other parts of the country. Despite their devoted nature, they were not created to act as guard dogs. Multitalented, upbeat, perceptive, sociable, and devoted. They bark about as much as the normal dog and will watch out for their family instinctively, without any training. Threats will be immediately apparent to them. Kind and compassionate toward other individuals. When with his loved ones, he is extremely affectionate, but he can be hesitant to trust new people. Pleasant, funny, and devoted to its family. It came from bulldog breeds brought to Brazil by European immigrants. This breed was formerly mostly employed in slaughterhouses where it could drag pigs by the ears and tame animals. This is a far cry from what they are used for nowadays, which is as loving pets. The Serrano bulldog has a balanced temperament, who is not aggressive to people or other dogs. They do however attack and defend themselves or owner when ordered to or when provoked. They are completely loyal and submissive to its owner. The Conti is a medium-sized bulldog-type dog with a silky coat, an almost square appearance, an athletic physique, and has lot of stamina. They weigh between 20 and 30 kg and has a smaller head than other Bulldog breeds. Temperament of a Conti is attentive, confident and friendly. They are neither aggressive nor shy. General health problems Bulldogs, especially the popular English and French Bulldogs, are endearing and adorable, but are they the right choice for everyone? They are popular lapdogs and apartment pets despite their often larger size. And even steal the hearts of kids, other dogs and strangers alike. But they do come with some health problems too. Bulldog Breeds Not all Bulldog breeds are officially recognized by dog breed organizations like the American Kennel Club. Some are recognized by alternative dog breed groups and some are mixed breed Bulldog crosses. The modern English Bulldog combines that iconic physical appearance with a famously friendly, docile, and loyal temperament. The old-style English Bulldog was brought to the American colonies in the 17th century. It has retained its original appearance, living and working alongside farmers, ranchers, and hunters in the rural South. The Bully is heavier and stockier than the Standard. The head shape of the Bully is large and round, with an undershot jaw. Potential owners concerned about the health effects of brachycephaly should consider the Scott type American Bulldog, with its longer muzzle. Like many other dog breeds, the American Bulldog can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, so be sure to choose a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs. The breed made its way from England to France, where it was crossed with other small dogs like the Pug. It became a popular companion animal for city dwellers in France, and eventually in the U. The physical structure of the Frenchie makes natural reproduction and birth difficult. A large number are artificially inseminated and delivered via Cesarean section. The French Bulldog is a brachycephalic breed prone to respiratory problems and is also prone to the spinal deformity called hemivertebrae. Additionally, because the Frenchie is also a dwarf chondrodystrophic toy breed, it can suffer from health problems related to its short, curved legs and back. While adorable, the Frenchie can require a significant amount of costly veterinary care because of the many health problems associated with the breed. Potential owners are urged to resist purchasing them on impulse and to thoroughly understand the special needs of this breed before deciding on a Frenchie. Boxer Dog Breed The Boxer is descended from an ancient type of dog known as the Bullenbeisser, which was crossed with the older style English Bulldog to create the Boxer dog breed. The Boxer is a good option for potential owners seeking a Bulldog-type dog that has a lower risk for health problems associated with brachycephaly. The Boxer is classified as a brachycephalic dog, so potential owners should be aware that there is some risk for breathing difficulties, even though the head shape is less extreme than other brachycephalic breeds. In addition to BOAS, Boxers can be prone to other health problems like heart disease, cancer, and hip dysplasia. Fans of big Bulldog breeds will appreciate this majestic dog, as it has been called the largest Bulldog breed. This breed is a native Spanish Molosser-type dog. This all-American mixed breed is not recognized by the major dog breed organizations but can be a great option for Bulldog lovers seeking a healthy and less brachycephalic Bulldog-type pet. They have been used for herding, hog catching, and hunting. It is known as a working cross breed, created for utilitarian purposes rather than fashion. As a mixed breed, it may be less prone to issues related to brachycephaly, depending on the physical characteristics inherited from its Bulldog ancestors. The History of the Bulldog The Bulldog is a type of dog that was originally bred for a blood sport of the Elizabethan era called bull baiting. A similar sport called bear baiting was also very popular. A bull or a bear would be chained to a stake in a pit and then set upon by a group of large dogs. The battles between the animals would continue, often until the deaths of some of the dogs. Needless to say, this was an extremely gruesome spectacle. By then, the Bulldog and Mastiff breeds developed for these baiting sports were already long established. Bulldogs were bred for their strong, stocky bodies and large heads and mouths. They were also bred for aggression before bull and bear baiting were banned. Their temperament became milder in the years after blood sports were outlawed, and the breed was used to work with livestock or as a guardian dog. The English Bulldog always had a stocky build and flat muzzle, but over the years its appearance has gotten much more extreme. The breed has evolved over time, and has also branched off into other types of Bulldogs like the Boxer and the American Bulldog. The term for short head is brachycephaly. Brachycephalic dogs have restricted airways. However, this is not just a problem in the shortened nose. It also causes trouble in the mouth and throat because soft tissues like the tongue and palate remain large even when the skull is flattened. Many different dog breeds can show symptoms of BOAS. Albeit breeds with the shortest muzzles and widest necks experience the most severe problems. This means that the different bulldog breeds are prime candidates for these problems. Dental Problems The craniofacial structure of dogs with brachycephaly also causes them to suffer from a wide range of dental problems. Because the upper jaw is shorter than the lower jaw in English Bulldogs and other brachycephalic breeds, the upper teeth rub against the lower teeth and bottom of the mouth. Curly Tails Hemivertebrae is a spinal abnormality seen in dog breeds with flat faces and screw tails. This condition is especially common in the French Bulldog. Dogs with hemivertebrae have malformed spinal bones, which can cause spinal deformity, pain, loss of function in the hind legs, and incontinence. Dogs that inherit a coiled tail also inherit the spinal deformities that go along with it. Serious cases require major spinal surgery, which is not always successful, and affected dogs can become permanently paralyzed. Because puppies are born with this condition, the symptoms can appear early, often as young as 7 months of age. Symptoms can appear suddenly, often in just a few hours. Eye Issues Dogs with large eyes and brachycephaly can be prone to corneal ulcers. Veterinary experts report that brachycephalic facial and eyelid structure can lead to eye trauma, ulcers, and possibly blindness. Risk factors for corneal ulcers include prominent eyes, visible white of the eye, and folds of skin over the nose. All these physical features combine to make eye injury and ulcers more likely in Bulldogs and other breeds such as Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Pekingese.

Feel free to contact me at alisprngfld aol. An "ethical breeder" can be described as someone who breeds dogs with the intention of bettering their own stock, and the breed as a whole! To "better the breed" means to breed dogs which adhere to the conformation standard the blueprint that defines how a dog of a certain breed should look , in the quest to produce the best dogs possible! All of our french bulldogs are "hand raised" in our home so that they receive the personal attention, socialization and exceptional care they deserve and need. In addition, we limit the number of litters from each french bulldog to guarantee both the mother and puppies are strong and well taken care of. We pride ourselves on Quality and not Quantity. All of our beautiful French Bulldogs come from Championship bloodlines, are fully AKC registered and are exceptional in every way, which is why we have become one of the premier breeders of French bulldogs in the country. Please feel free to browse our site, look through our gallery of photos of both past and present frenchies. Feel free to send us a email or call to request additional information or to make an inquiry on a specific french bulldog. We are always available to answer you questions, and if you are serious about owning the "Best of the Best", please contact us! Best regards, We are located in beautiful Missouri State and have owned Frenchies for many years. We just cannot get enough of them and enjoy the love, entertainment, and companionship that they bring. As a family we breed and raise superior quality puppies and strive for perfection, health, confirmation and as a bonus rare, luxurious colors such as the Blue, Blue Tan, and Black Tan. All our puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club and are raised as part of the family, with unconditional love and care. They are introduced to small children, and household pets in the process, and are started on potty training before they leave our home. We have spent many years studying and researching the amazing breed, in order to welcome top quality, hand selected Frenchies into our breeding program. We have families who come back to us more than once because the quality of our puppies speaks for itself. We have so much passion for this breed as they complete what we call home. Although we are located in Missouri, we are able to ship puppies across the United States. Contact us for more information about shipping options. The exceptional quality of our French Bulldogs speaks for itself. Browse through our site, and you will see! Contact us today to learn more about Luxurious French Bulldogs and to schedule a visit to meet our Frenchies.

Click here to call Graham Our German Sheperd puppies are born and raised in our home with continuous human bonding and socializing. Although I am NOT a human in a dog suit, neither am I an unfeeling robot who can instantly obey your every whim. I truly DO want to please you, and be a part of your family, and your life. You got me I hope because you want a loving partner and companion, so do not relegate me to the backyard when I get bigger, do not judge me harshly but instead mold me with gentleness and guidelines and training into the kind of family member you want me to be. Puppies, young dogs with Class 1. We only offer dogs with sound personality and temperament; health and strong character. We are by choice a small select breeder in the south of England with 30 years Experience. We breed occasionally for quality and not quantity, and are very particular as to where our puppies go. We very seldom show our dogs. Good German Shepherd breeding starts with good females of good families. A Good family is determined by the quality of siblings more so than the fame of parents and grand parents. It is far better to breed with a mother who has excellent structure, health and character and whose siblings display similar qualities, than to another who is a top ranking show dog with a superb pedigree but whose siblings were rejects. We recommend Skinners dog food for your dog. Click here for more details on their range of pet foods. We are a German Shepherd breeder that specializes in quality, intelligent dogs with proven superior genetics. We sell German Shepherd puppies that are the perfect choice for professionals and families. We focus on producing a stable, protective line of German Shepherds that you can trust with your children. Sweet tempered companions that will protect your family and property Our German Shepherds have incredible pedigrees and we carefully choose only the best genetics to constantly improve upon the German Shepherd bloodline. We have German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas, but arrangements can be made to sell a puppy to any state within the 48 contiguous states. We are always happy to talk or visit with you and would love to show you our beautiful German Shepherds. Our German Shepherd Dogs can be used for search and rescue, tracking, guarding, guide dogs for the blind or physically disabled, police work, show and of course a family pet. Our dogs are well socialized with children and other pets. Our puppies are AKC Registered and come with a health guarantee. Our high quality puppies are excellent with children and very easy to train. We have carefully selected world class German Shepherds with proven superior genetics. Our puppies have the potential to become champions in the show ring and your family hero. The West German bloodlines are bred to have great personalities and superb temperaments. They go through extensive training and rigorous testing to earn their titles. The West German Shepherd bloodlines are not just tested on their beauty and showmanship, but also on their ability to perform difficult tasks that require a high level of intelligence, motivation and desire to please their master. As a German Shepherd Breeder, it is our desire to provide you with an exceptional puppy that can bring you the same joy that ours have brought to our family. Our German Shepherds are the perfect choice for personal protection and are great companions for all ages. Testimonials: "Hi. He blended right into our family and we don't remember life before him. His temperament and intelligence are above average. At the vet I heard the vet and techs in the back gushing over how behaved he was and they sent me home with extra goodies for him hehe. He's already house trained. I've already been able to teach him two commands "here" and "place". He's also the best snuggler and is sooo very patient and forgiving with my tornado of a two year old son. He is the best dog I've had in my entire life and love him to the moon. I can't wait until he's old enough to start going on adventures with us. Thank ya'll for a wonderful dog! We get soooo much attention with her! We've had people literally pull off the road just to comment on her! Lots of people asking if we are going to breed her! We are meeting with someone on Friday to evaluate her for protection training. She's my girl and she knows her job well! Btw, people always ask me where I got her.I tell them all about you guys! Here are pictures of Liberty sunbathing with her sister, Queen Bitsy! She loves her boy! June 26, German Shepherd dogs are a very popular dog breed, owing to their many qualities. While German Shepherds were bred specifically for their herding and intelligence, they are also known for their strength, trainability, and obedience. These traits make them excellent disability assistance dogs, police dogs, and watch dogs as well as excellent pets. They are also considered easily identifiable due to their distinct tan and black or red and black markings. Many other colour varieties do exist including black masks, sable, pure black, and pure white varieties to mention a few. This is an obviously handsome, eager to learn, and curious dog breed that is very self-assured despite the curiosity in its nature. They are loving and attentive dogs with their family members but are not inclined to make friends easily with strangers, making them quite intimidating at times. Once getting past the initial introduction, these dogs are very friendly and energetic with children as well adults. Much is known about German Shepherds and some of their common medical ailments by pet owners and dog breeders alike. This includes hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency to name a few conditions the dog breed is prone to. Good breeding practices can help limit these problems in the breed. As German Shepherd dogs can also be prone to a large range of skin related problems, these can also be limited with responsible breeding practices, although some of the skin conditions are difficult to completely eradicate as individual variations do exist. As the range of most common breed-specific dog skin problems in German Shepherds is quite vast, we will discuss these conditions over a 3-part blog series. Here are some of the common pet allergy related problems that are seen in German Shepherd dogs: Environmental Allergy Canine atopic dermatitis An environmental allergy can occur in the predisposed individual to natural environmental substances such as grass and tree pollen, house dust, house dust mites, human dander, and environmental fungus in wet grass or close to water bodies. Indoor allergens, outdoors allergens, or a combination of them may cause dog allergy symptoms. A shepherd dog with any lifestyle can be affected by environmental allergies. Environmental allergies can cause seasonal or round the year dog allergy symptoms at a young age including itchiness, skin infection, hair loss, ear infection, skin rashes and redness. Often, the infections are resolved with treatment but recur until allergy is identified and managed. As an environmental allergy is a life long problem, and usually progresses with age, early intra-dermal allergy testing to identify offending allergens is encouraged. This helps to start allergy immunotherapy for better allergy control. Allergy desensitization will generally help German Shepherd avoid long term bacterial skin infections, that they are also quite prone to. Contact Hypersensitivity German Shepherd dogs are also affected by contact allergies, which can be triggered by compounds coming in contact with skin. This is especially true and evident for less haired areas that are more in contact with the environment. Most signs are noted at the paws, underbelly, armpits and tail based, perianal regions for this reason. Over time, skin redness and irritation signs may progress further along additional areas of the skin. Secondary skin infections may also develop, leading to further skin problems. Contact allergens for dogs may be substances found indoors or outdoors. Household cleaning agents, various plants, toys, carpet fibers, and even some skin products when applied for treatment are examples of agents that can cause contact allergy dermatitis. To help minimize this skin problem, identification of the contact irritant or allergen and its avoidance is critical. Thorough patient history review and in some cases, patch testing can be performed at our pet dermatology clinic to help control this problem. Flea Bite Hypersensitivity also called Flea Bite Allergy Flea bite allergies can cause pruritic dermatitis anywhere on the body, but especially on the back of German Shepherds. All it takes is one flea bite to cause a severe reaction! The vast majority of symptoms of this allergy, especially itching, disappear within a few days of adequate flea control. Interestingly, it can be quite difficult to find fleas and their evidence on flea allergic patients, due to their intense itchiness on the back end, where fleas can generally be found. Excellent flea control and flea treatment products are available these days, of which the most suitable and effective for your Shepherd can help control this problem well. Remember, in the Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver areas of the lower mainland, our weather is mild round the year and harsh winters are not seen. Thus, flea infestations and flea allergy can be seen in pets round the year. Insect Bite Hypersensitivity As German Shepherds possess an immune system that can be quite reactive, they can also be affected by insect bite allergies including a condition called Eosinophilic furunculosis of face. In regions with biting flies being common in warmer months, fly bite dermatitis of ear tips is also seen in this breed. Being active dogs that like to train and spend time outdoors, they are definitely more exposed to insects in the environment. Food Hypersensitivity also Food Allergy, or Cutaneous Adverse Food Reaction Food allergies also affect German Shepherd dogs, in keeping with the dog breed being prone to developing allergies. While food allergy is less common compared to flea allergy as well as environmental allergy due to pollen, grass and dust mites, it is important to consider any pet with skin problems and signs of intestinal upset, to be a possible for allergic dog. If food allergy does affect a dog, controlling exposure to one or more allergens will help prevent ongoing concerns. Food allergy may also be seen in combination with other allergies, making identification of the problem more challenging. A fair amount of testing options are available for assessing food allergy in dogs. Not all these options are entirely reliable as blood tests and saliva tests have been proven to be of minimal benefit in benefiting the patient. If food allergy is suspected but control over the problem has not been achieved, a vet dermatologist consultation is encouraged to help confirm and eventually control the problem and related symptoms. Combination Allergies and Their Secondary Effects All dogs affected by allergies, irrespective of breed and including the German Shepherd, can be affected by more than one allergen. In fact, having allergies to more than one allergen is more common than being allergic to just one thing. Being allergic to a range of things polysensitization makes allergy in pets a complicated condition. This may mean an allergy to multiple grasses, tree pollen, foods, insects, etc. Some pets may be affected by a large range of food allergens without having additional allergy triggers. In dogs affected by multiple allergies, identification of the most important allergen is always the key. Ideally, most or all of the offending allergens need to be identified to help ensure good patient comfort. This in turn, will help limit secondary skin infections in a breed like German Shepherds, that is quite prone to skin infections as we will find in the next blog discussing skin infection related conditions of German Shepherds. Early and definitive identification of allergy signs is always helpful in stopping progression of allergies and their impact in any dog, but is especially true for German Shepherds. If your German Shepherd shows allergic symptoms of itchiness, redness of skin, hair loss, or changes in skin quality, it may be time to consult with a vet dermatology clinic so that your pet dermatologist can help identify the true problem. He is also the dermatology feature editor for Canadian Veterinary Journal.

Check them out on Amazon here. To learn more about what to feed your golden retriever puppy, check out this article here. Brush Golden retrievers are obviously very fluffy and need to be brushed often. Check this brush out on Amazon here. Check it out on Amazon here. Chew Toy Check it out on Chewy here he had the size small. Plush Toy This is a plush, squeaky toy that will keep your puppy busy for hours. Interactive Toy Interactive toys allow you to play and bond with your puppy, and are great for teaching or reinforcing commands like drop it, sit and stay. Bonus Items The above list is for the bare necessities of what your puppy will need to get started. Below are some extra things that, although are not necessary, have come in pretty handy. Food Storage Container This is great for keeping food fresh and in a convenient place. Since we get the pound bag of food, we get this container that holds 42 pounds of food. Note that this container does not come with a scooper, so we recommend one like this that has measurements on it. Check out the storage container on Amazon here. Exercise Pen Exercise pens are great for confining your puppy to a smaller area while giving them more space to run around in than a crate. Using a combination of baby gates, exercise pens, and the crate will help you keep them safe while also keeping them from chewing up the house. Get this baby gate from Amazon here. Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook Getting everything you need will help you physically prepare for your puppy, but you also need to mentally prepare for your puppy. This book will help you know exactly what to do before you bring your puppy home, how to handle the first month which is the toughest month! Get the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook here. That means get their crate set up, have their food and water bowls in their designated places, and have a few welcome home toys set out to help your new pup have a great experience in your home right away. Find a veterinarian. Locate the nearest emergency animal hospital. Find both the nearest hospital, and the nearest 24 hour hospital. Find a puppy kindergarten class. If you ask any trainer, breeder, or veterinarian how to have a well-behaved pup, nearly all of them will recommend joining a puppy kindergarten class. The socialization aspect alone is worth it. Puppy-proof your house and yard. Get down on your hands and knees to see what your puppy will be seeing remember this: whatever can be chewed will be chewed , and make sure there are no puppy-sized holes that they could escape through in your backyard. For more tips on how to raise your new golden retriever puppy, check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Life With Your Golden Retriever Puppy Although this might seem like a pretty big list, if you have it all when you bring your puppy home with you, it will make the transition time that much easier. Take lots of pictures and videos! Have a question about any of these items? Let us know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is getting a puppy and needs to see this list, please share this with them! Related articles:. Food bowl There are endless options of food and water bowls. In addition, the bowl can prevent gagging, choking, vomiting, indigestion, bloat, GDV, and malabsorption. If you already have a dog bowl, you can simply add a slow feeder insert. Water bowl Ellie has an 8-cup YETI water bow l to keep her water cold for more extended periods and a 4-cup bowl for food. YETI allows you to customize each bowl with a name, initials, or image. Great as a gift! They help prevent your puppy from getting tangled up in the leash and provide better control. Make sure you check out their sizing guide for the appropriate fit. We added a crate pad for noise reduction and comfort. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. It is essential that the dog crate is never used as punishment — the crate must always be regarded as a safe and special retreat. Gates Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. Use a gate to limit access to certain areas of your home and reduce unwanted chewing or house soiling. Introduce your dog to small sections of the house at a time. We prefer the walk-through gate for easy mobility through the house. Toys and Chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with various items to see what interests your puppy most. However, the last inch of a bully stick can be a choking hazard if swallowed. This safety device allows your pup to enjoy the benefits of long-term chews while reducing the risks of choking. I typically give it to her for 20 minutes, rinse it off, and store it in the refrigerator until the next day, which prevents bacteria growth. Note you probably want to keep it separate from your food. However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped! Read the full disclosure here. This comprehensive list covers all the essentials, plus some added extras. Food: Every dog needs food! See our puppy food guide for recommendations. Bowls: Your puppy is going to need something to eat that food from. Something to think about. Bedding: Your pup will need a comfortable bed to call their own. You can decide whether to choose a puppy-sized one or one that they can grown into. To avoid buying more than one crate, you can get one big enough to fit your adult golden and make it puppy-sized using dividers. Brushes: Get your puppy some brushes suitable for a longer-coated dog. The sooner you get pup used to being brushed, the easier it will be in the future. Toothbrush and toothpaste: These are daily essentials in your grooming routine. Be sure to choose a dog-specific toothpaste as the human stuff can be dangerous to canines. Treats: Essential for training. Pick high-value treats for when you really want to motivate your pup. Chew toys are essential to help direct chewing away from your belongings. Tug toys, balls to play fetch and treat-dispensing toys are also nice to have. Travel harness or dog guard: To keep your dog safe in the car. These are the main things you need to think about when puppy proofing your home. Put them up high or away in their proper place. Not only will it leave you out of pocket if your pup chews something expensive, many such items are also choking hazards. Be careful of plants: Make sure you remove any plants that are poisonous to dogs , both in your house and your garden. Common offenders include foxglove, wisteria and yew. Secure medicines and cleaning products: Both medicines and cleaning products can be highly toxic to dogs if ingested. Hide electrical cords: If a puppy sinks their teeth into an electrical cord, it can prove fatal. Try not to have electrical cords running across the room or out in the open where your puppy can get to them. If needs be, you can get cord concealers, cord wraps or even pvc pipes to secure them. Planning Appropriate Puppy Socialization Socialization, with both humans and other dogs plus other animals, if your new puppy is going to be around them , is one of the most important things to think about with your new puppy. A well-socialized puppy should turn into an adult dog who interacts well with all dogs and people, which makes your life so much easier as a dog-owner. It might sound a bit over the top, but it will stop your pup from getting confused or overstimulated and it sets some ground rules for the humans involved, too. Pick out regular meal times for your puppy and try to stick to them as closely as possible. Also take your puppy out into the garden on a schedule, as this will really help with toilet training. You can also schedule in training sessions, play sessions and, when your puppy is old enough, their daily walks. Learning How To Train Your Puppy You might think that training your new dog will be intuitive when you get them home, but dog training is a skill you learn, not one you just pick up as you go along. Once your puppy is old enough, group puppy training classes are an excellent idea. Not only will you learn more about training your pup, your dog will also get to socialize with other young canines. The ideal option is to have the puppy in the back seat in a car harness and have a passenger sit next to them, who can hold, pet and comfort them on the journey home. Some people forgo the harness altogether and have a passenger simply hold the puppy, wrapped in a blanket or towel. However, before you even get your puppy into the car, you should try to get them to relieve themself first , to avoid any toilet-based accidents on the journey home. Once you get your precious pup home, all that effort and preparation will have been worth it to give your new four-legged friend the best start in life. You May Also Like. We use the 8mm size for our dogs. Alvalley is a high quality brand for all lengths. For an adult dog, use an 8 mm or larger. For a young puppy, an 8 mm leash works fine, but I prefer the smaller 6 mm Alvalley Snap Lead one for ease of use when working at home. This size fits easily into the outside pocket of a treat bag. If going for a walk, use a more substantial leash such as the 8 mm Alvalley leash. For at-home use, a 6 mm collar is fine. I like to attach a snap lead permanently to a martingale collar for ease of use. The collar and leash can easily be slipped off and on as needed. Puppies and even some dogs like to chew the plastic ones. At 10 weeks of age, we are using very small bowls for ease of use during training. Golden Retrievers tend to act like they are starving and eat too fast, even at their correct weight. These bowls slow them down so that they will come closer to chewing their food than inhaling it. I like to use buckets instead of bowls for water. Puppies love to dig in their water which makes a mess out of it. Hang the bucket on the outside of the crate by the handle that is on the bucket. Then attach the clip for security by using only one side of the clip to attach the handle to the crate. Leave the other end of the clip just hanging. Never put water inside a crate with a dog. I recommend the 2-quart size for one or two big dogs. This size is also a good size for a puppy. I use two snaps to stabilize the bucket. Though wire crates usually have a divider so that you can size the crate down, we recommend that you go ahead and purchase a 24 inch wire crate along with the correct size for your dog when he is grown. Most puppies can use the 24 inch crates for about 2 months after they are weeks of age. It is also helpful to have a smaller crate when traveling. If you want this option with a Summer Brook puppy, you can have a small icrate shipped to our home address for you to pick up when you get here. The best size crate for adult girls is a 36X24X27 inch wire crate. For an adult boy, use either a 42X28X30 or 36X24X27 inch wire crate. We prefer wire crates in most cases because they give more ventilation and Golden Retrievers like it to be cool. Midwest Life Stages : These are heavy duty and come in both double or single door options. I prefer the crate with the double door because you will have the opportunity to use it turned sideways with the entrance on the side as well as the end. The Icrates are also two inches shorter and two inches narrower than the Life Stages crate. They are larger at the bottom than the top so they fit better in the back of an SUV or van. They are crash tested and have excellent safety records. These crates are a bit difficult to set up and take down so we only recommend them for those that want a crate that stays in a vehicle most of the time. They are perfect for families that take their dogs with them a lot and want a somewhat permanent fixture in their vehicle. This crate is very lightweight and sets up and folds down quickly and easily. We love these crates for motels and dog shows. Wood Crate Denhaus Townhaus : I recommend this crate if looks are important to you. This crate looks just like a nice end table. Though it was expensive, mine has held up well for several years. Crate Pad Primo Pads: These are my favorite crate pads. They are made of a heavy-duty vinyl and I have yet to have a dog chew one up. The vinyl is cool so that my dogs like them even in the summer. They come in a big variety of sizes so that they will fit your crate like a glove. These pads are not sold anywhere except from the manufacturer. Order your Primo Pads here. This is a raised cot-like bed that is cool and comfortable. There is a new Kuranda Bed that we have not tried ourselves but it looks amazing. It is a raised cot like the aluminum bed that we have loved for years but it is sized to fit perfectly into a crate! We have purchased both the aluminum as well as the less-expensive PVC Kuranda beds. Our aluminum beds still look brand new but our PVC beds are starting to warp a little after a few years. We like the Ballistic Nylon fabric which has held up for us for several years. The large is the correct size for both boy and girl Goldens. We have two of them and they are as comfortable as many human beds. We have the extra-large size but a large would be plenty big enough for a girl. At first, your puppy will have to be watched almost every minute when they are out of the crate or pen in order to establish good potty habits and also to teach them not to chew. Until you teach them otherwise, some puppies will try to chew everything, including the furniture and even the woodwork on the walls so I have found the pen to be a huge help. If you get a pen, you need to begin training your puppy not to jump on the sides right away. Never pet your puppy or let him out while he is jumping. Reward him for sitting. They open and close easily and in both directions. The Richell Pens look really super nice. They also can be set up as room dividers. We own at least a dozen sets of these pens and have used them in a large number of configurations. However, like most exercise pens, many puppies will eventually learn to climb or jump out of them. Families must be on top of training their puppy not to jump on the sides. Unlike the Richell pen, most, if not all pens have doors that open in only one direction. If you get one of these pens, set your pen up so that the door opens to the outside. If you are getting your puppy from a breeder other than Summer Brook, plastic pens are a good option for a 7 to 10 week old puppy. It is easier to house train if you start off not allowing your puppy in too large of an area. It also has the added convenience of being able to be easily removed by simply pushing a button that locks it in place. However, this gate must be mounted to the wall. Baby Gates that are Mobile Regalo Extra WideSpan Walkthrough Safety Gate : This gate can span a space inches For a pressure-mounted gate, the Regalo gates do very well and are a good simple solution if you only want a gate for a few months until your puppy is house-trained and can be given the full run of the house. However, understand that many puppies cannot be totally trusted in large areas until they are over 6 months of age. It takes some until they are close to a year. Doggy Door Why to Use a Doggy Door If you are able to put a doggy door in, this is by far the easiest way to house-train a puppy. Also, it provides an ideal way to leave a dog when they have to be alone. I teach our puppies to use a doggy door before they go home. In the last days before they go home, I section off a small area inside next to our kitchen with free access to a doggy door that leads to our side yard. When I keep a puppy past 8 weeks, I gradually increase the size area of the indoor area as they show dependability. I reserve the times when they are free in the house to the 30 minutes right after they have pottied. We highly recommend it. If you have a particularly aggressive chewer then I would buy the Extreme Kong but if your dog is average then I would use a Classic Kong. Bob-a-lot : You can fill this toy with a lot of food; the dog has to work at getting the food out by pushing it around. JW Pet has other great toys too. If you have a particularly aggressive chewer then I would buy the Extreme Kong but if your dog is an average chewer then I would use a Classic Kong. Puppies love them and they keep our puppies happy in their crates. Toys for Month Old Puppies.

They are thought to be distantly related to the Pug ancestor of the Pugapoo and brought to Europe from Asia nearly 2, years ago. Impressed with their large size, Romans used the Mastiff to fight in arenas for entertainment. More recently, in the s and s, they were used for hunting bulls, bears, and lion baiting. They were also a common watchdog during this time. By the time the s rolled around, they were mainly used for guardians and as companion dogs. Commonly found in the homes of nobles, these dogs were known for being gentle and mild tempered. After this battle was won by the British, it was estimated that only 14 Mastiffs had survived in the entire country. The Mastiff population was rebuilt mainly by the U. Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. Eventually, Poodles made their way from the lake to the life of luxury as they were the breed of choice by French nobles, and eventually royalty across all of Europe. To this day, the Poodle is still the national dog of France. The Toy Poodle started in the United States in the early 20th century to be a city-dwelling companion dog. After the Poodle gained popularity in the 60s and Poodle mixed breeds started gaining traction in the 80s, more and more breeding options became available. The Mastiff was just one of many to be bred with the Poodle in the late s. Mastidoodles tower over most other doodle breeds. With two big parents, that is to be expected. On average, the male Mastiff is between inches in height and the females, which are generally slightly larger, are between inches in height. Poodles are regarded as needing a lot of maintenance—more than most breeds. They generally need brushing almost daily. On the other hand, Mastiffs need to be brushed a few times a week. The amount of grooming that an individual dog needs depends on the dog itself. If the Mastidoodle puppy inherits more of a Poodle-like coat, it will need grooming more often. You can expect to have a Mastidoodle groomed every months, but in warmer climates it should be done closer to weeks to keep them cool. Are Mastidoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Mastidoodles Shed? No, Mastidoodles are usually not completely hypoallergenic. Because one parents is hypoallergenic and the other is not, there is no way to guarantee that the offspring will be hypoallergenic. Mastiffs shed rather heavily, while Poodles are hypoallergenic and shed minimally. Mastidoodle puppies will most likely shed less than a purebred Mastiff because it is mixed with the lower shedding breed of the Poodle. On average, they tend to live anywhere from years. However, all breeds have the possibility to develop some health problems. Some major concerns with the Poodle Mastiff Mix include entropion, elbow dysplasia, and canine hip dysplasia. Due to the cost of treating these common health concerns, we highly encourage all dog owners invest in pet insurance. We recommend getting a free online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. That being said, sometimes they forget how big they are, so ensure supervision around small children and elderly adults. These dogs love their families and are very loyal. This makes them good watch dogs. They will be quick to give a warning bark to any approaching danger and their size alone is intimidating. The Poodle is an especially smart dog breed, so frequent mental stimulation is important. Mastidoodle Dog Breed Activity Requirements: The Poodle requires a lot of physical activity, but the Mastiff only requires a moderate amount of activity. Expect to spend around an hour a day engaging your Mastidoodle in physical activity. This can include walks, jogs, a good game of fetch, or time to run around with friends in the dog park! Alternative Breeds to the Mastiff Poodle Mix. Lifespan Sociability Of all the mixed doodle breeds, this guy is certainly one of the rarest. This means that you need to be prepared for the long and hard search that is ahead. If you are impatient and are desperate for a dog to join your family in the next few months, this will not happen with the Mastidoodle. He is rare, but this is definitely a huge part of his appeal. It also goes without saying that the Mastidoodle is a huge dog. And do you know what giant dogs need? Lots and lots of space. He might not be as big as his Mastiff parent, but you can be sure that he is much bigger than his Poodle parent. The Mastidoodle can be an obnoxious dog if you allow him to be. For this reason, we suggest that that only an experienced dog owner takes him on. He will inherit a degree of stubbornness from his Mastiff parent, who is a strong-willed pooch. Thankfully, his smart Poodle genes should alleviate this, but do not expect a fully obedient dog in this guy. He can also become overprotective, too, if he is not trained and socialized adequately as a pup. He is courageous and takes his role as family protector very seriously. Thankfully, his Poodle genes will make him more accepting of strangers. The Mastidoodle needs more exercise than most giant dogs, and that is because of his Poodle parentage. Poodles are livewires who were traditional duck hunting dogs, and so they have a lot of working energy that they need to expel. If they become bored, they will leave a trail of destruction behind them. So, you need to be able to commit to time exercising him. He also needs more grooming compared to other dog breeds too. Again, you can blame the Poodle for this. His long and wavy curls need daily grooming to keep him looking his best and prevent any tangling. And with his big body, you can expect that it will take longer to brush him compared to a Chihuahua. The Mastidoodle may shed less than other dogs. His Poodle parent is a hypoallergenic dog, which means that he sheds less than most dog breeds. The Mastidoodle may or may not drool. To drool or not drool? That is the Mastidoodle question! And it is one that you will find out after welcoming him into your home. This means that you need to be prepared for a little doggy drool in your life. The Mastidoodle is genetically unpredictable. He is a mixed dog, and as such, he can take after either parent. As a rare hybrid breed, he will likely be a first-generation pup. This means that there is no breed standard and no expectations about which parent he may turn out like. Just like most giant dogs, the Mastidoodle is a sweet and gentle giant. He is one of the soppiest sweethearts in the canine kingdom, so you need to be prepared for the onslaught of puppy kisses! This is also great news for the younger ones in the house. When he ventures outside, he is lots of fun too. His well-balanced temperament means that he is suited to most families. The Mastidoodle is a very intelligent dog thanks to his Poodle parent, who is ranked as the second most intelligent dog on the planet. This means if you are after a fully obedient dog, you might want to stick to the purebred standard-sized Poodle. Thankfully, he will do as he is told most of the time. Are These Dogs Good for Families? As we have already mentioned, you just need to make sure that you have the right environment for him to do well. A large home with access to a large yard is one of his most essential requirements. But he also needs a family that can spend most of their time with him. As well as stimulate him throughout the day to prevent him from becoming bored and problematic. Because of his large size, you will need to supervise him just in case of accidental bumps with his big derriere. His protective Mastiff genes might make him wary of other animals, which is why his training is necessary. The only pet that he will not be able to live with is ducks and other birds. This is because of his Poodle parentage. His Poodle parent is a traditional German duck hunter, so you will need to keep him well away from ducks and other winged creatures. Things to Know When Owning a Mastidoodle: Now you know more about the Mastidoodle in all of his giant teddy bear glory, here is a list of his day-to-day needs. He will consume between four and five cups of food every day, depending on his age, size, and activity levels. Like his Mastiff parent, he is likely to be a greedy pup, and he will eat anything and everything in sight. If it fits in his mouth, he is going to swallow it. You should feed him a diet that is specifically designed for large breed puppies. This is particularly important during puppyhood. This is because they contain the optimum nutrients that large and giant dogs need, and they help to control his rapid bone growth. In turn, this could decrease his chances of developing bone diseases such as hip dysplasia. You need to set aside at least an hour every day for his exercise routine. But a long and brisk walk around your local park or neighborhood will suffice for most of the week. Because he is an intelligent and active dog, you should mix up his activities to keep him interested. A simple change of scenery or a frequent visit to a local doggy park to meet new friends will benefit him. And it will top up his socialization skills too. Being a doodle mix, he will be fond of the water, so you should try to include this in his exercise routine. He will love you for it, trust us. As you already know, his Mastiff genes might make him a little overprotective, but his Poodle influence should calm this down. Mix him with as many other dogs and animals as you possibly can when he is young, and this will teach him that most dogs are friends and not foe. Also, mix him with unfamiliar humans, as well as new sights and sounds, and this will increase his confidence too. He can be a stubborn dog, and so you need to be persistent with your training. Keep training sessions fun and engaging. And with a treat in your hand , he will do as you say, most of the time. He will usually inherit the Poodle curls, but he will have shorter hair like the Mastiff dog. You should invest in a comb or pin brush to keep matting at bay, and also a slicker brush to pick up all of his dead hair and any dirt. You should bathe him every six to eight weeks to keep him looking and smelling his best. Mastiffs are well known for their drooling potential, and many owners comment that they have a strong doggy odor. The Mastidoodle may or may not drool and smell more than most, but with frequent and thorough grooming, this should keep the smells at bay. When it comes to the drooling, a packet of tissues will do the job. This might seem short, but for a giant dog breed, this is slightly better than average. Keep this guy happy and healthy with regular exercise and the right nutrition, and you could keep him with you for longer. And be sure to keep up to date with trips to the vets. Minor Conditions. Mastidoodle breeders and puppies What is a Mastidoodle? A Mastidoodle is a Mastiff Standard Poodle mix. They are large, lean dogs with floppy ears and strong personalities. This cross breed is both recent and rare, with fans travelling long distances to find a puppy from these very different doggy lines. Purebreds vs Designer Dogs The Mastidoodle is classified as a designer breed. This means it is bred from two purebred dogs, in this case a Mastiff and a Poodle. The first part of making an informed decision is to be broadly aware of the perceived strengths and weaknesses of designer breeds in comparison to purebred dogs. The flip side is that purebred dogs can suffer from a range of health and physiological problems resulting from inbreeding. This research into pedigree dog preventative care provides an interesting insight into the breeding efforts to address purebred health challenges. Where Do Mastidoodles Come From? Mastidoodle were first developed as little as twenty years ago in the US. The main part of their history and heritage comes from their parent breeds. The Poodle is believed to have originated from Germany over years ago. This breed was developed to be a water hunting dog. When the Romans invaded Britain in 55 BC they encountered a huge and courageous dog which easily trounced Roman breeds. Unsurprisingly, the warlike Romans took some home with them and used them for fighting wild animals in the Coliseum. Over the centuries they became popular as guard dogs. How Big Are Mastidoodle Dogs? The Mastidoodle could weigh 55 to pounds and measure 15 to 30 inches tall. Its features will vary significantly depending on which of the parent breeds has greater influence. Standard Poodles stand around fifteen inches tall and weighs between fifty and seventy pounds. They have a well-proportioned, squarely built frame which gives the breed its proud, almost haughty stance. The Mastiff is a much larger dog. Its height typically reaches around 25 inches and its weight ranges between 55 and 75 pounds. This is an athletic dog with a strong musculature and an alert, agile bearing. Mastidoodle Appearance and Characteristics The Mastidoodle will typically have a domed forehead, drooping ears, and almond shaped eyes that are equal parts soulful and intelligent. Colors can be black, brindle or cream. The Mastidoodle is likely to be a large and solidly built dog, with a striking physical presence derived from both its muscular Mastiff and its proudly upright Poodle pedigrees. If your Mastidoodle puppy has inherited its coat from the Poodle side, its coat will be more wavy. You will need to groom at least every other day to deal with matting, burrs, and debris. Maybe the coat of your Mastiff Poodle mix comes more from the Mastiff side. Then its coat will be shorter, less wavy, and considerably easier to maintain. Are Mastidoodles Hypoallergenic? If they are at the curlier end of the spectrum they can be low shedding and therefore hypothetically a good match for owners with mild dog allergies. Mastidoodles Temperament Traits The Mastidoodle is intelligent, adaptable and forms strong bonds with their families. They are wary or aloof with strangers, and therefore benefit from plenty of socialization as puppies. People are often surprised at how patient and nurturing they are, given their imposing size. They love any kind of exercise and will happily run, swim, and retrieve. This mix can make great watchdogs, if not guard dogs too. Are Mastidoodles Aggressive? More vigilant than aggressive, they make great guard dogs and generally have a home-loving streak. The Mastiff x Poodle is intended to blend those traits. This results in an extremely affectionate and intelligent dog who develops a strong attachment with its family. Mastidoodle Training and Obedience Both Mastiffs and Poodles respond very well to positive reinforcement training. Given the likelihood that your Mastidoodle puppy will be an extremely bright and perceptive animal especially if its Poodle pedigree is dominant , you may also need to be creative in finding fresh challenges and approaches throughout the training process. Health Issues and Special Needs Beginning the process of looking for a Mastidoodle puppy and speaking with Mastiff Poodle cross breeders? Issues to consider with Mastidoodle dogs are: Elbow and hip dysplasia. What is a Bullmastidoodle? A Bullmastidoodle is a mix between a Bullmastiff and a standard Poodle. They typically weigh between to pounds and measure 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. Poodles are a highly-recognizable dog breed. They typically stand at or above 15 inches tall. History of the Parent Breeds Understanding the Bullmastidoodle means diving into the history of the parent breeds: the Bullmastiff and the Standard Poodle. Bullmastiff Bullmastiff The most defining characteristic of a Bullmastiff is its large size. The Bullmastiff has an intriguing history that dates back to the s. It was first bred in the s as a guard dog to protect the properties of gamekeepers. At the time, gamekeepers struggled to fight off human poachers. Bullmastiff standing outside. They responded well to commands and were strong and intelligent enough to hold a poacher down without mauling them. They were indeed large and muscular enough to scare a poacher half to death. The American Kennel Club did the same in .Poodle Poodle The standard Poodle is a highly recognizable breed. Poodles are excellent swimmers and were bred for waterfowl hunting. Their unique haircuts helped insulate them while swimming in ice-cold water. They are one of the oldest breeds globally and are believed to have been a crossbreed of water dogs from European countries, including Portugal, Hungary, Russia, and Spain, and Asian herding dogs. Many people associated Poodles with France. However, these wonderful dogs originated in Germany. Many Europeans, especially the French, took a liking to Poodles and the breed began to spread across the continent. In France, the Poodle was a great attraction as circus performers. The breed was selectively bred down in size to produce the Miniature Poodle. Miniature Poodle Outside circus and hunting activities, the Poodle became extremely popular as a much-loved companion. Poodles are loyal, intelligent, and good-natured. Appearance Bullmastiffs and Poodles are both beautiful dogs. It is safe to assume that the Bullmastidoodle would follow suit! The Bullmastiff is a large-sized breed while the standard Poodle is medium to large. Most Bullmastidoodles are much larger than more common Doodle breeds. The way a Mastidoodle looks depends on which genes it inherits from the parent dogs. Some appear more Poodle-like with long limbs and slender bodies, while others have the muscles and size of their mastiff side. Coat Type The coat type a Bullmastidoodle possesses also depends on the genes it inherits. However, the breed generally has a wavy, long, and dense coat that requires quite a bit of maintenance. A Mastidoodle with curlier, Poodle-like hair will require daily brushing, while one with a Mastiff-like coat needs brushing a few times a week. A breeder cannot claim a Bullmastidoodle is entirely hypoallergenic because only one of the parents is. Mastiffs are heavy shedders, so Bullmastidoodles tend to shed even with their Poodle genes. Grooming A Bullmastidoodle living in a cool climate will likely need grooming every one to three months. Consistent grooming will keep your dog more comfortable and your floors free of hair! Coat Colors Bullmastidoodles can come in a variety of coat colors. Mastiffs are a variety of shades of red or brindle, while Poodles can be black, white, silver, blue, cream, red, apricot, and any shade of brown. A Bullmastidoodle may also have brindle fur, which appears as inconsistent stripes of dark and light fur. A Bullmastidoodle can be any of the colors listed below or a mixture of several colors.

Legacy pugs offer high-quality pug puppies that are extremely socialized and spoiled to families all over the east coast. Most of our clients reside in North Carolina and South Carolina. Our pugs, with their comical face and deep wrinkles, will make you smile. If you are looking for a pug in North Carolina or South Carolina call or text us at .Legacy Pugs in South Carolina raises our dogs in a healthy, family environment. Legacy pug puppies in North Carolina and South Carolina are typically fawn with black masks. Occasionally, we will produce a solid black puppy. Legacy Pugs is not just my chosen career path but my passion. When you get a dog from us, you are not just getting any dog; you are getting a superior pug puppy with a spirited personality and all the traits that the world loves about pugs. You are not purchasing a dog, you are gaining a family member who will be there through thick and thin, love you unconditionally, and yes probably make you laugh a time or two with their adorable snorts. Our customers from North and South Carolina find our Pugs outstanding pets because of their adorable, goofy personalities. No matter what your lifestyle may be, these little guys will be up for any new adventure. Bred to be your best friend, their favorite place is right by your side. Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. Carolina Pugs Welcome to Carolina Pugs! Our intentions are pretty straight forward. We offer Pug puppies for sale across the East Coast with a special emphasis inside our region, the Carolina's. North and South Carolina is home to the majority of clientele who purchase our Pug puppies. However, we will sell to anyone looking for a phenomenal Pug. Only producing a few litters annually, our Pug puppies have some of the most sought after markings and personality. Also, most pedigrees within our Pug family have a proven track record of up to 75 years of show quality. Great health is important and is certainly throughout their ancestry. Our Pug puppies are sold to interested families who have a passion for the breed. We do not give or sell breeding rights to anyone who purchases a Carolina Pug. This money is to hold your new Carolina Pug puppy until 8 - 10 weeks of age. We do not let our Pug pups leave before the eight week period for good reason. It ensures the pups are given enough time to learn stability and self reliance. Also, the possibility of emotional distress increases when being away too early from litter-mates. We try to give you the greatest possible experience when buying a Pug puppy from Carolina Pugs. We accept deposits to reserve a puppy after the litter is born. At pickup the remaining balance is due. Our pups colors can vary depending on genetics, but are typically fawn with black masks. Sometimes we do have silver fawns, blacks, and apricots as well. It's important we only sell our pups to people that can provide a loving environment. Carolina Pug's main objective is to help families find a top notch Pug. Quality Pug Puppies are hard to find. It's why we became Pug breeders in the first place. First and foremost; We absolutely love Pugs! There's not a breed in the world that comes close. They are little, wrinkly, comical, snorting, loyal, short faced balls of energy with a touch of laziness. Pug puppies are somewhat hard to find of good quality. We offer exactly that to anybody who wants some of the better bloodlines and genes a Pug can naturally possess. Our Pug puppies for sale started as a hobby. A small wish for my first Pug is where it began. We feel fortunate to be able to help others fulfill that same wish! We are highly against puppy mills or people that breed too close of lines; as that can present health risks. We are natives of Charleston, South Carolina. Coming from somewhat of a city life style, we know a small breed dog can be a better option. Pugs are small yet somewhat energetic. They "love to eat", but feeding them is financially manageable. Just don't give them too much, they would most definitely overindulge! Pugs are great around children! We have two boys and they are good with them and with friends, neighbors and other animals. Pugs have a keen sense of what makes you happy and are constantly trying to get you to laugh. They also love to be congratulated with treats. Pugs are a breed that enjoys being the center of attention, but also know when it's time to be lazy. Generally Pugs are a healthy breed. When they come from a trusted background of quality, good demeanor and traceable genetics you can't go wrong. Sometimes Pugs are loving, charming and mischievous all at the same time! Our family fell in love with the breed immediately after we bought our first Pug years ago. Owning your first Pug truly is a special feeling we would like to share with you too!

Located in beautiful Southern California, we strive to breed superior quality family dogs that will not only make great companions and protectors for your family but that also represent the German Shepherd breed well with the exceptional temperament the breed is known and loved for worldwide. We breed only top German V and VA bloodlines that possess superior health and temperament through generations of hip and elbow certified and temperament tested dogs. Additionally all of our dogs are tested for Degenerative Myelopathy to be sure we are producing puppies safe from this disease. Additionally all of our dogs are DNA tested Clear for the MDR1 gene that can cause mild to severe reactions to a variety of medications. Please visit our testimonials page to read review from many of our clients through the years. Also be sure to visit our Dogs For Sale page to see retired females and males we currently have available to the right homes. Check back often as we are always updating photos of our available puppies. With keeping a small number of dogs we have time to give plenty of love and individual attention to them and the puppies when we have them. Our dogs are not kept in kennels, they live with us as part of our family, with room to roam outside on our one acre property and a warm spot inside to sleep. All puppies are raised inside our home in a clean and healthy environment. All whelpings are supervised by us and assisted as needed to ensure the best start and to protect the health of the mother and her puppies. All puppies are well socialized with small children, cats and our other dogs. Temperament is very important to us, our breeding dogs have wonderful temperaments that they pass on to their puppies. Puppies are temperament tested so that we can help you to find the perfect fit for your family and your needs. We actively show our dogs on the local, national and international level thereby striving to breed dogs of quality bloodlines and structure that adhere to the German SV standard for the German Shepherd dog. We make every effort to continue to learn and to improve our bloodlines by importing dogs of superior quality with top German VA bloodlines to bring you the highest and best quality puppy for you and your family to enjoy. Our hope as breeders is that we can provide the best quality German Shepherd puppy with an outstanding temperament that will in turn make a lasting impression on you and your family like they have in ours. I have so many customers that have been lifelong fans of the German Shepherd, that have grown up with German Shepherds and long for that companionship again with the dog of their childhood. I look forward to providing the dog of your dreams to you and your family! Call today to begin your future with a great German Shepherd Dog of your own. Call or email for an appointment to visit us and to meet our dogs and puppies. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Ask almost anyone what color a German Shepherd is and they'll describe a saddle back GSD with a black mask in some combination of black and tan or black and red. While there are a number of German shepherd coat colors this is the combination that is most often considered the "classic" look of the German Shepherd. Most German Shepherds fall somewhere in between these extremes of coat colors and coat patterns - black and tan or black and red. Pale washed out colors, shades of blues and livers are considered serious faults in the GSD breed. The amount of tan interpreted as any shade of brown, from fawn, chestnut or silver to deep darker hues or red light red to mahogany markings can also vary quite a bit from black and tan German Shepherd to black and tan or black and red German Shepherd. Some GSD's may have very few markings with a lot of dark color as in the case of a bi-color saddle back German Shepherd consider a "blanket" as opposed to a "saddle" while other GSD's may display the more traditional saddle back coloration with a lot of tan, red or silver and much less black on the body with a dark mask. When born, a saddleback black and tan or red GSD puppy is much darker than they will be at adulthood. Oftentimes they may even be so dark as to appear to be solid black at birth - but this is not the case. When the German Shepherd puppy later dries off it's real marking colors will really be evident - especially around its anus and on the hairs on the puppies feet. Below find a few pictures representative of the traditional saddleback German Shepherd Dog and their coat colors and markings - of the black and tan GSD, black and red GSD and bi-color saddle back German Shepherds. My name is Mitzi Michelle Brooks. I have had dogs all my life and German Shepherds most of that time. I have tried different breeds, but always come back to what I know and love. The German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for me. I breed large, old-fashioned, straight-backed, German Shepherds with a special focus on health and temperament. I am a very small breeder, all my dogs live with me, in the house. They are first, and foremost, my beloved pets. In my litters, I concentrate on the things that matter most to me: Health and Temperament. My dogs are all larger than the breed standard but with no compromise to their health. All my dogs are medium to low energy, making them easy to train and ideally suited for families. I do not breed: dogs that are hyper, dogs that show any signs of aggression, working dogs, high drive dogs, or dogs with excessive angulation. Puppies are born and raised in my home! That means your puppy goes home with you already socialized with other dogs, with cats, and familiar with all the sights and sounds of a normal home. All puppies are also current on vaccinations and on a set deworming schedule. The puppies bred here are sold as companions and pets. Just as working dogs are bred to work, my puppies are bred to live in and be a part of a family. With their low to low-medium drive, my pups are very easy for their new parents to train and still possess that famous German Shepherd instinct to protect their home and their family. These soft temperaments mean that my dogs are happy to go out and play, but just as happy to come in, lay at your feet, and interact with their family. Our mission is to improve the breed standard, produce stable, clear headed puppies and prepare them for bonding with their new humans. Come and see the difference. Whatever task you may have - a canine from West German Shepherds. Welcome to West German Shepherds. Our mission: to improve the breed standard, to produce stable, clear headed puppies and prepare them for bonding with their new humans. Committed to producing exceptional canines with 14 years of hard-earned expertise and insight; here, you will glean insider information on selecting a German Shepherd pup and why West German Shepherds. She passed away in my arms on Monday September 16th at AM. Brownie was our reigning queen, an alpha female who earned her stripes the hard way; as a result she never flaunted her position but rather ruled with a strong bark and gentle paw. Great with families, working bloodlines, very protective. When the AKC American Kennel Club or CKC either of the 2 following entities Canadian Kennel Club or the Continental Kennel Club registers a new puppy, it does so sight unseen - without ever having evaluated the appearance, health or quality of the parents of the litter. In fact only a minuscule fraction of the tens of thousands of breeding dogs all across America have ever been evaluated. While registration is a great place to start, there is more to consider than whether the dog is registered. Sadly, the marketplace is chock full of puppies with bad genetics and these are from officially registered canine parents. A puppy born with a slight genetic abnormality might come from purebred parents, and can still be registered. An inexperienced or unscrupulous breeder may not recognize the uneven hips on a puppy and sell it to someone who will later breed the puppy. The final outcome will be a new line of registered dogs that are genetically inferior. None of these statements are made to be derogatory of the AKC or CKC, these registration organizations do many wonderful things to improve the health, welfare, training and advocacy of ALL canines. Yes, AKC registration is an important factor that should not be overlooked, but there is much more to contemplate. The pedigree of both parents should be considered as part of your quest for a puppy, the pedigree will list all of the ancestors historically for 3 or 4 generations back up the family tree. All of the canines listed in the pedigree impact the genetics and thereby the health of the offspring. The pedigree itself does nothing to convey the health of a puppy, but it tells the dogs lineage, their titles and country of origin. By searching, you can find a breeder offering puppies from parents with exceptional pedigrees, that have correct body structure, a superior visual appearance, plus the temperament to match your expectations. What is an exceptional pedigree? The more champions in a pedigree, the better. Here is a quick run down of German Shepherd championship titles. The German Sieger beats hundreds of other Champions to be selected this coveted title. The only higher title accomplishment attainable is the World Sieger. It is the same as the Sieger - but is for the female winner of the German National Championship Conformation show. Not many people are familiar with the word Sieger but even less are familiar with the word Siegerin outside of German Shepherd professionals. The Sieger show is held annually in Germany. VA-2 is the Vice- Sieger, etc. The best genetics possible are found in Sieger show winning adult German Shepherds. The puppies born from these bloodlines will be the absolute best in quality and appearance when compared to the average German Shepherd you see on the street. An analogy would be like comparing a shiny Ferrari against a rusted out Ford Pinto. The top bloodlines are found in the VA titled dogs and filtered down into their offspring, but be prepared to pay a significantly premium price for that level of parenthood and prestige. You will hear of dogs described as being from show lines, herding lines or working lines. Show lines refers to canines that are used to compete in conformation shows, herding lines means canines used to herd sheep, working lines denotes canines used to work in protection, Schutzhund or other disciplines. Primarily there are 3 main types of German Shepherd Dogs. Czech Shepherds are longer and leaner in body frame, more narrow across the chest and have taller rear hindquarters. Typical coat colors are black and tan, black and creme, black and silver, brown sable, silver sable and brindled. The coat patterns of a Czech Shepherd run from blanket-back to saddleback and brindled but most are blanket backed. We do not produce Czech Shepherd pups. Yes, Dutch Shepherds still fall under the umbrella of German Shepherds. Dutch Shepherds originated in the Netherlands and are very similar to Czech Shepherds in body form however they are typically more solid, weighty and sturdy than Czech Shepherds. Dutch Shepherds are not very commonly found outside of police or military use. They also present as a harder dog meaning they require an experienced trainer, handler or owner. Obviously there are exceptions to these generalized statements. Dutch Shepherds are brindled in coat color, brindled simply means a mottled and multi-colored un-patterned coat appearance. We do not produce Dutch Shepherd pups. West German Shepherds come from the democratic capitalist state of West Germany. West German Shepherds have shorter more compact torsos, thicker across the chest and have the squatted or lowered hindquarters. It is not that the dogs are stacked or posed for pictures, their rear bone structure is genetically encoded to be positioned more angular than that of a Czech Shepherd. The coat colors of a West German Shepherd are black and red set in a saddleback pattern. While interesting, we do not own or breed for these types, nor am I going to invest any time delving into them further. Over the past 25 years I have owned and bred different types of German Shepherd dogs. I keep track of the litters being sold in our geographic region. The West German type German Shepherd dog is the most sought after type. This is the number one variety of German Shepherd dog that previous GSD owners, consumers, enthusiast and new first time owners are actively seeking. You might assume that the cheap dogs are not as healthy or desirable, and the more expensive ones are a better, safer choice. Breeders know this. Many breeders will put a higher price on their low quality dog to look professional and make their dogs appear more valuable. Some breeders import very expensive dogs so they can breed them to sell puppies at a higher price bracket. An experienced breeder can evaluate a dog by comparing the conformation or show quality, health, physical performance and the ability to work; but can only do so after having studied the breed and being immersed in these canines for many years. One factor that has impacted price structure is the difference between Czech Shepherds and West Germans Shepherds based on an over-inflated value. Many first time German Shepherd buyers are ignorant of this fact. The new buyer will look at a few breeder websites, see the price tag, then sticker shock sets in; so they search again based on a lower initial purchase price and soon find a breeder that sells at lower price tiers. It never was a bargain. Czechoslovakian Shepherds sell for less money for a number of reasons. The market is diluted with them, it seems they are on every street corner. If you want the best German Shepherd for your money you will need to hit the perfect trifecta: choose breeder, bloodline and puppy very wisely. Breed level dogs or dogs used for breeding purposes should be exceptionally beautiful, it should be like a day versus night comparison. Its time for a really bad analogy, but it should be like comparing the cute girl you saw at BurgerDoodle against the hot supermodel on TV. Or for the lady readers, it would be like comparing an overweight plumber to a ripped fitness instructor. There should be an impressive difference between the quality of a German Shepherd breed dog when compared to the German Shepherd you just saw on the street corner. Both parents should have correct body type, not be excessively underweight or overweight, they should have dark eye colors, the coat should be exceedingly beautiful with vivid color pigmentation. The body should be proportional to the animals overall size, the body should not be too short nor should it be too long. The dog should not be a giant massive pound beast, nor should it be a petite 55 pounds worth of dog. The withers should be the high point and the back line or top line should gracefully slope to the hind quarters from there. The torso should appear rugged with powerful legs, the angulation should be correct and the stance when viewed from the side should look as if the German Shepherd were ready or capable of striking in a nanosecond. The West German Shepherd is a herding type breed and should weigh between 70 to 90 lbs and be 22 to 26 inches tall. That is 22 to 24 inches for a female and 24 to 26 inches for a male Toss a ball and observe the adults as they run, their movement should be easy, graceful as if to announce - yep, I can do this all day long! Look to see if the movement is fluid or constrained. Check the eyes, ear and teeth. Eyes should have dark pupil colors, teeth properly aligned, ears should be set close and stand erect, they should be reasonably clean and not coated with goo inside. Do the adult dogs track you as you move around? Are they agitated or nervous at your presence there? Pet them, handle them and look for their response. Nearly every German Shepherd breeder in America will tell you that they have champion bloodlines. Immerse yourself by studying, looking at pictures, making comparisons, asking questions via phone, text or email and then going to visit several of the top contenders. Go visit, meet them in person, ask questions, make notes etc. Choosing a breeder does not sound like a complicated task, however you should visit with several individuals and keep a skeptical eye open. Just because this breeder has nice looking German Shepherds - does not make them an ethical or honest person. Nearly everyone has heard the term puppy-mill. This refers to a large breeding operation that mass produces puppies to sell in a variety of retail outlets. Some of the puppies go to pet stores and boutiques, others are sold on-line and shipped in crates via carrier or air-freight, still others are to be sold at events like dog shows, local flea markets, farmers markets, outdoor festivals or from the back of a pick-up truck. Please beware of purchasing from the aforementioned venues, a large portion of these animals also come with very serious life threatening diseases. The puppy mills are known for over-crowding, unsanitary conditions and harsh treatment of animals since they often operate in secrecy in a warehouse or very remote type location. Another type of breeder is the novice, money driven or back yard breeder. These types are largely copy cats. They read websites of professional breeders and the on-line ads, familiarize themselves with the terminology, soon enough they begin executing their forgery. They position themselves as professional breeders but on a smaller scale, offering puppies that are hand raised etc. If you were to look around their property - they place looks like a normal home, there is no footprint or significant investment to indicate that they have created a top-notch, professional environment for their canines. See the selecting a breeder section for more information on how to identify unsavory breeder types and more specifically what to look out for. The canine breeder should be a walking encyclopedia about the overall health, housing, care, nutrition, exercise and training necessary for the type of canines they are breeding. They should have built up a considerable amount of knowledge, expertise and experience around their breed, they should also be proficient at mating and whelping too. Their kennels and property should reflect careful consideration about every decision that impacts the housing, health and environment for their canines. I highly recommend you visit with a few breeders, there is no substitute for this step. This is an opportunity for you to evaluate the breeder, to observe the adult canine animals and also the time to examine the relationship between the breeder and their animals. If the breeder is a professional - then there should be compelling evidence that they have made a significant investment in providing great facilities for the animals. What is the condition of the fencing, the shelter, the dog house, the whelping area etc? How does the breeder talk, do you feel extremely comfortable with their knowledge, character, speech and demeanor? This is the precise moment in time where you need to follow your gut. I have visited other breeders and seen unbelievable things, such as: When the puppies eat, play, then take a nap; mice scurried out from under the shed and begin scarfing crumbs of food dropped by the puppies. Another breeder had a koi pond with long strands of green slime pond scum, the puppies were using this as a water source; the issue was every time that it rained, the runoff rainwater drained back into the koi pond carrying with it the germs and bacteria from the waste products generated by the puppies. I have met a few great breeders and many really bad ones. In the final analysis - you are not just buying a puppy, but you are buying into the combined genetics of both parents, you are buying into the kennel, the breeder person, their level of knowledge and expertise, lastly whether or not that person is honest and ethical. Believe me - there are some real unsavory characters out there breeding dogs, selling puppies and offering stud service. For more info please read - Selecting a Breeder. The health of the animal is determined by genetics as passed down from both parents. Each pup has 2 parents, 4 grandparents, 8 great grandparents 16 great great grandparents all of these ancestor impact the offspring. Inquire of the breeder if there are any known genetic problems. Inquire about the frequency of those genetic problems occurring. If a breeder proudly says there have never had a problem with any of their animals then you should consider 1 of 2 possibilities. The very best kennels in the country have encountered genetic problems, but because of strict quality control protocols they move to a different pairing of adults to eliminate the genetic problem or they stop breeding that line altogether. A sincere breeder should offer a health guarantee to protect the customers investment. Always read the contract and ask questions long before making a deposit. A genuine breeder should want to stand behind their puppies, they should want to protect their reputation and provide detailed records. Furthermore a breeder should encourage open communication and build a relationship with their customers, how else will the breeder stay abreast of the health, wellness and genetic factors that are happening within their bloodline? An experienced breeder should have insight as to the traits of each puppy in the litter. The breeder should be able to help show you which puppy best suits your needs based on the criteria you have stated. What is the singular most important trait to you? Do you travel frequently and want a protective dog for your family? Are you seeking a dog for companionship? Is your situation that you have a big family, a lot of friends, neighbors and relatives who visit often and want a family dog? Were you planning on working the dog? Share this information with your breeder and ask them to help steer you towards a puppy that exhibits traits that are well suited for your primary intended purpose. Many clients want to actively choose a puppy, while others are more comfortable with a passive approach, spend time with the litter and allow the choice to be more organic and mutually made by the puppy that is attracted to them. There is nothing wrong with either method but I will offer this - If you want to ensure that you get the puppy with the traits that most closely match your needs, then for optimum results take an active role in making the selection. In each litter there will be certain trait variations the pups have inherited from their parents. Any German Shepherd puppy born in the litter can be trained to serve or work in any type of role that you desire, however some pups are more naturally suited to be self starters and do the task with minimal input from you. A German Shepherd is not naturally a mean or vicious dog, however they are alert, aware and protective. These traits have been locked into them from the start by the nature of the breed, these animals were coded to be discerning from the start. A Golden Retriever is a great congenial dog, it loves everyone it encounters right down to the burglar who is prying open the back window of your home with a crowbar. The Golden Retriever will hold the door open and wag its tail as the contents of the home are being ransacked and loaded into a truck. Now flip the script and try that with the German Shepherd dog. The German Shepherd dog has already been eyeballing everyone long before they set foot on the property. Even if the dog was inside and did not see someone coming - it is always listening for sounds that are non typical for its environment. Go ahead and pry the window open with the crowbar - lets see how that works out for you. Someone may actually get inside but I am pretty confident they will be encouraged to leave hastily by the canine with intense actions of fierce barking, deep growling, hackles up, ears on high alert and eyes laser focused on the intruder. The uninvited guest will drop everything - run out the door with empty arms, a chewed up backside, a renewed fear of God Almighty and total respect for the German Shepherd Dog… Again, the German Shepherd is not a mean dog, it is not a vicious dog, but it is a vigilant dog. It is a watch dog - it is a dog that closely looks after the people that it is bonded to and the place where they live together. All things considered - a German Shepherd is a very practical investment for peace of mind regardless whether you are young or old, single or have a large family. On pickup day I will spend a minimum of an hour and a half with each new owner going over paperwork and the best practices for feeding, health, training, tips on care, etc. With West German Shepherds. You are buying into the tremendous wealth of bloodlines we have selectively cultivated and created, you are buying the expertise we have accumulated in 14 years of running a top notch breeding program. I am passionate about this breed and ensuring that everyone who wants a German Shepherd - has an amazing experience. Please contact me if I can be of service to you. Thank you for visiting West German Shepherds. The original quote was intended for every breed of dog; as German Shepherd owners already know - these canines are far superior to any other breed on the planet! I often repeat - some days you are the dog, some days you are the fire hydrant. More quotes can be found at the bottom of each page. I have three pets at home which answer the same purpose as a husband. I have a dog which growls every morning, a parrot which swears all afternoon, and a cat that comes home late at night. Do you get the difference? The man will be there to feed the dog. The dog will be there to keep the man from touching the equipment. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.