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Little to zero shedding equals a higher maintenance dog. The Tiny Bernedoodle is a relatively easy keeper in the grooming department compared with the Miniature Poodle. The curlier the coat the more they need groomed. Most Micor Bernedoodles need to be brushed at least 3 times a week and need a cut or trim every weeks. When brushing focus on areas that easily matt like behind the ears and the belly. You can see our favorite brush in our shopping list here. When people think of a Mini dog they usually picture something the size of a Mini Poodle or something the size of a Cavalier. When Bernedoodle breeders talk about a Mini Bernedoodle you need to keep in mind that Mini compared to a pound Bernese can still be over 50 pounds with some Mini Bernedoodles getting as large as 65 pounds. This is because each inherits separate genes from each parent. Some puppies get more of the Bernese genes and some get the Mini Poodle genes. Becase of the request we often get for a dog that will stay under 50 pounds or for a dog that will stay around 20 pounds we decided to add Tiny Bernedoodles to our Bernedoodle program. Tiny Bernedoodles are consistently smaller than F1 Mini Bernedoodles. Tiny Bernedoodles are great for families that live in an apartment or a small area. Tiny Bernedoodles are a great option for a family with allergies, a family looking for a smaller dog with the Bernese temperament, or a family just looking for a unique great dog to have as a companion. The Tiny Bernedoodle is a moderately active dog who requires around 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise. They adapt quickly to most hot and cold weather climates, making them an excellent all-weather dog selection. This crossbreed is excitable but will match their energy level to yours, so plan on snuggling on the couch together or playing fetch in the back yard. Tiny Bernedoodles are lap dogs so plan on your Tiny Bernedoodle puppy spending long hours hanging out on your lap. Are Tiny Bernedoodles good with young children? The cost of a tiny bernedoodle will depend on the breeder. Tiny bernedoodles cost more than standards or mini bernedoodles. How much exercise does a Tiny Bernedoodle Need? These bernedoodles litters will have a variety of coat types. We see tight curls, lose curls, and wavy in our Tiny Bernedoodles. This bernedoodle cross, like the other Bernedoodle crosses, comes in many different colors and producing many more colors than the F1 crosses due to breeding poodle color genes from both parents. While producing more color variations they are still categorized similar to the other crosses, consisting of a tri-color micro mini, bi-color micro mini, and a solid color micro mini. We specialize in tricolor, merle, and parti Tiny Bernedoodles. What is the Tiny Bernedoodle Temperament like? Do you have any Tiny Bernedoodle Puppies Available? Some breeders use toy poodles to create Tiny Bernedoodles. This is a pairing where it would be ok to use a toy poodle. The reason we do not want to use a toy poodle in an f1 Bernedoodle pairing is so we can maintain good confirmation. We bred for calm docile Bernedoodles. Most puppies in the litter tend to be calm and even tempered every once in a while you can get a puppy that has the higher energy. Tiny Bernedoodles like to be with people. Because of this if they are not taught at a young age that it is ok to be alone they can develop separation anxiety. We offer a great training program for our Tiny Bernedoodle puppies. If puppies are taught by the time they are 12 weeks old this will help tremendously. What size is a tiny bernedoodle? Tiny bernedoodles are pounds full grown. The average tiny bernedoodle will be 20 pounds full grown. What do tiny bernedoodles look like full grown? Full grown tiny bernedoodles look similar to a mini bernedoodle. Full grown tiny bernedoodles remind me of a little teddy bear. Some tiny bernedoodles can have curly hair like a poodle. We breed for the fleece coat type. Tiny Bernedoodles are eager to please and very smart which means they are incredibly easy to train. This dog will not need many training repetitions because of how swiftly he learns commands. In particular, Tiny Bernedoodles make good agility dogs. Even as young puppies Tiny Bernedoodles can start learning basic commands. What type of coat does the Tiny Bernedoodle have? Tiny Bernedoodles can be pounds. The average Tiny Bernedoodle will be around 20 pounds full grown. The size will be determined by the parents. When people think of a mini they usually think in terms of a mini poodle. When Bernedoodle breeders talk about a Mini Bernedoodle you need to keep in mind that Mini compared to a pounds Bernese can still be up to and sometimes larger than 50 pounds. What colors do Tiny Bernedoodles come in? How big do Tiny Bernedoodles get? How much do Tiny Bernedoodles cost? We currently do not have Tiny Bernedoodle puppies available. We are planning Tiny Bernedoodle litters through the year. We are expecting tricolor, merle, and parti Tiny Bernedoodle puppies. If you would like to get on the list for one of our tiny bernedoodle puppies please fill out our Bernedoodle Puppy Application here. This hybrid is excellent with kids of all ages, and is gentle enough for interaction with even the youngest children in the family. Because of their friendly, gentle natures, Tiny Bernedoodles thrive as service and therapy dogs. Their loyalty, protectiveness, and affability make them an ideal partner for people with disabilities. Because of their smaller size it is important when you Tiny Bernedoodle is a puppy to watch them closely when being with children and teach your child how to handle a smaller Tiny Bernedoodle puppy so they do not hurt the puppy. How often does a Tiny Bernedoodles need groomed? Tiny Bernedoodles come in Tricolor, sable, merle, black, black and white, cream, chocolate, and phantom. We specialize in traditional tricolors, merle tricolors, and phantom tricolor Tiny Bernedoodles. We love all colors Bernedoodles come in but cannot get enough of the stunning tricolors and merle tricolors. We were one of the first breeder to produce true F1B merle tricolor Tiny Bernedoodles. NOT the result of an Australian shepherd mix. We do not use Australian shepherds in our program. Are Tiny Bernedoodles easy to train? Also called the Bernese Mountain Poo, Bernesepoo, Bernesedoodle, and Bernepoo, the Bernedoodle hybid mixes the happy-go-lucky temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligence of its Poodle parents. Mini Bernedoodles are happiest when they're spending time with their families, children included. They are willing participants in playtime and cuddle fests alike. Fans of the breed adore their friendliness, playfulness, intelligence, and affection. They are fairly adaptable and go with the flow. If you need a dog for the whole family, or if you're a single owner looking for a lovable, smart mixed-breed with good health that will put a smile on your face with their antics, you won't be able to find a much better choice than the Miniature Bernedoodle. They do well with children and other animals, and are happiest as part of a family. They love spending time with their human family and should not be left alone for long periods. They can be wary of strangers, but early training can help their socialization. Toy and mini Bernedoodles can be more energetic and stubborn than the standard version, but you will find them relatively easy to train because of that Poodle intelligence. Their skull is moderately round with flat cheekbones and a long, straight muzzle with a scissor bite. Their eyes are dark, oval, and set far enough apart to make their facial expressions appear alert and intelligent. Ears have wide and thick ear leather and hang close to the head, at or just below eye level. Coats can be curly, dense, and highly textured, or corded, hanging in tight even cords of varying lengths. The coat is tricolor with black as the base and markings in rich rust and clear white. The tail will vary in length, but it is bushy and carried high. Exercise Medium Activity Bernedoodles are moderately active and will love daily walks. They enjoy playing fetch and spending time with you. This breed tends to wander and hunt, so a fenced-in yard is important. They can adapt to urban or rural settings provided there is time and space for daily exercise. This breed requires a lot of human interaction, so leaving him alone outside for long periods will not work for the Bernedoodle. We recommend at least an hour of exercise every day. They will do well with time to fetch, run, and learn new tricks. This crossbreed is a mix between a Miniature Bernedoodle and a Poodle, and typically weighs between 10 and 25 pounds They are a smaller version of the Mini Bernedoodle, making it an excellent choice for those who want the temperament and intelligence of a Bernese Mountain Dog in a more compact package. Like their larger counterparts, Micro Bernedoodles are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities. They are intelligent, trainable, and eager to please, making them great companions for families with children or other pets. These dogs also tend to be hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for those with allergies. One of the unique features of the Micro Bernedoodle is its tri-color coat, which typically consists of black, white, and brown markings. This coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, and may shed minimally. However, the low-shedding nature of the Poodle parent means that the Micro Bernedoodle is generally considered to be a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming and upkeep. Overall, the Micro Bernedoodle is a charming and friendly breed that is well-suited for families and individuals who want a smaller, hypoallergenic dog with a fun-loving personality. Showing 1—12 of 80 results. Welcome to Alpine Bernedoodles, we are located in beautiful southwestern Colorado in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. I have been a Veterinary Technician for over 16 years and it is my passion to produce exceptional quality Bernedoodles. I am committed to breeding for excellent health, confirmation and sound temperament. My bernedoodles are bred with responsibility and integrity to be cherished family companions. Every puppy is raised with attention to physical and mental health, and nurtured with love and care. We cannot guarantee size or color but we will deliver a beautiful, happy healthy puppy. We are accepting applications for future litters. Please visit our Purchasing information page regarding our waitlist policies and application process. Now is a good time to start planning for your next best friend. Cannot recommend Alpine Bernedoodles enough! Our trainer at puppy class raves about how lucky we are to have such a smart trainable pup. Kathryn was great throughout the process sharing pictures and providing information to help us pick our pup and made it so smooth in getting her. The Kingery Family, Washington Today was a great day because we welcomed home our new puppy! She instantly lit up our home with joy! We adore her! They are amazing! The Priehs Family, Michigan I fell in love with bernedoodles about 3 years ago or so, I have wanted one for along time. It was important to me to find the right breeder of this breed as there are alot that are not. I had the most enjoyable experience from the day I sent in my deposit to this day. I love all the new friends I have met watching our puppies grow together. Kathryn is super great to work with! This puppy has changed our house. Less stress, more love. And I thought we were in pretty good shape before, so that says alot. The Heidemann's, Idaho Big day for the Porter family! We love Minna Hayley so much, we had to have Rocket Noah too! Marley and Logan and Kathryn sure make some awesome pups! This was a surprise to our kiddos, hence the tears The Porter Family, Colorado Kathryn, it was lovely to meet you and your husband. Thanks so much for everything! Thank you, Kathryn Hadfield for everything! What a wonderful experience it has been finding you, Alpine Bernedoodles, and this perfect little guy! The Cowgill's, Wisconsin Colt Mack has been such a joy! He is so sweet, happy, smart, and adorable! We are always asked about him when we are out in public and everyone always says how cute he is. People actually think he is a Bernese puppy because of his markings. His coat gets more beautiful every day. It is shiny and wavy and has not faded a bit! It has gotten much thicker and fuller and is gorgeous. The Dutton Family, Colorado We had a fantastic experience with Alpine Bernedoodles, well worth waiting for the perfect dog for your family! Finley has a hilarious personality and could not be smarter or more lovable. She was sleeping through the night after one week and we had her potty trained in two weeks using the bell method — they are SMART dogs. She is a favorite of everyone she meets and has not met a stranger yet. Alpine Bernedoodles has been there for us every step of the way if we have questions, and we love knowing there is a Facebook group for additional support if we need it. We could not be happier with our puppy and suggest Alpine Bernedoodles to everyone we meet! The Bogenreif's, Texas From the moment our puppy arrived we knew we had made the right choice with Alpine Bernedoodles. She arrived happy, beautifully cared for and well behaved. We would highly recommend Alpine and Kathryn to everyone! Thank you for giving us our perfect Scout! She melts our hearts and makes us smile all the time. Her fabulous looks are only enhanced by her amazing personality. She is so sweet and very spunky and she literally stops traffic wherever we bring her. Timber Ellie is the best pup we could ever ask for. She loves cuddling on the couch, politely sitting at the kitchen table with us, and hiking all around Colorado while winning over the hearts of everyone she meets. Timber has a beautiful, silky coat and a fluffy teddy bear face. She is like a person with how smart she is and how well she listens to us. We love her tri-color markings that are still there even as as she approaches 2 years old…and no shedding! Thank you so much for our furry family member! The Meyer Family, Colorado. The most typical breeding of a micro mini would consist of a miniature bernedoodle girl being bred to a small toy poodle boy. Micro Bernedoodle Size The micro mini bernedoodle is expected to mature at pounds depending on the size of the sire and dam. The Tiny Bernedoodle Coat The micro mini is considered more of a non-shedding or very minimal shedding bernedoodle due to being an F1B cross and possessing more of the non-shedding poodle gene. This bernedoodle cross, like the other Bernedoodle crosses, comes in many different colors and producing many more colors than the F1 crosses due to breeding poodle color genes from both mommy and daddy. While producing more color variations they are still categorized similar to the other crosses, consisting of a tri-color micro mini, bi-color micro mini, and a solid color micro mini. Temperament or Micro Bernedoodles The micro mini may differ slightly in temperament, as expected with the F1B cross. They may be more high-strung and energetic, similar to the toy poodle Tiny Bernedoodles Dogs for Sale We currently have no Tiny Bernedoodles for sale. If you would like to be notified, please contact us and we will notify you when our Tiny Bernedoodles become available. Tiny Bernedoodles Past Litters. Life Span Did You Know? They tend to be affectionate and loving dogs that make great family pets. They are even known to make great therapy dogs! Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other canine registries. One of the facts about Bernedoodles is that they are true companion dogs. They are cuddly companions that love nothing more than being with their favorite humans. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, Mini Bernedoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Miniature Bernedoodles are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in larger homes as well as apartments. They are sensitive to heat and extreme cold, but do well in most climates. Because they bond so closely with their families and thrive on attention, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and can develop separation anxiety if you do not work with them early on. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can ask about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Mini Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. This makes them a highly trainable dog that is a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They can become stubborn if training is not consistent or clear. Although their coat tends to be low-shedding and will range from straight to wavy or curly, the Mini Bernedoodle coat requires some maintenance. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Professional grooming is recommended every weeks. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful cleanings as needed help to prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, Mini Bernedoodles are more prone to developing gum disease. Good dental care for dogs early and consistently throughout their life can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Daily tooth brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is ideal. Although Mini Bernedoodles will be playful and have bursts of energy while playing, they are not high-energy dogs. They tend to sit in a more moderate range. Daily walks plus some playtime throughout the day are usually enough for them. But, they love spending time with you and will likely be up for more activity if you are. They may be smaller dogs, but they also tend to be relatively athletic. When puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like running, hiking, training for dog sports, and more. Fully-grown Mini Bernedoodles usually stand inches tall. They can range from pounds. F1B and F2 Mini Bernedoodles usually weigh pounds and are on the shorter side of the range. Mini Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Bernedoodle Article.
The primary protein source, typically chicken or beef, is complemented by fruits and vegetables to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The freeze-drying process preserves the raw nutrients, ensuring your dog gets all the health benefits of a raw diet, including improved skin health, a shinier coat, and better digestion. Their high-quality, limited ingredient list ensures your pet gets the best while reducing potential triggers for skin conditions. The top 10 best skin allergy supplements for German Shepherds A well-balanced diet might not be enough for many German Shepherds suffering from skin allergies. Sometimes, specific supplements can help enhance your dog's skin health and immunity. These products typically contain essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other components that target skin issues and reinforce your pet's natural defenses. These soft chew supplements are packed with natural and effective ingredients like Colostrum, Apple Cider Vinegar, and Organic Licorice Root that boost your dog's immune system and promote good digestive health. German Shepherds with skin allergies often suffer from inflamed skin, and the presence of Omega 3 fatty acids in these bites can greatly help reduce inflammation. The supplement also includes probiotics that promote a healthy gut, which can be beneficial as many skin conditions result from digestive issues. Additionally, these bites' wild Alaskan salmon oil can improve skin health and give your German Shepherd a lustrous coat. These bites are healthy and tasty, making it easy to administer to your dog. This blend of ingredients helps to keep your German Shepherd's skin healthy and free from allergic reactions. Composed of ingredients like colostrum, salmon oil, and turmeric, these chews enhance immunity, combat inflammation, and improve skin health. Colostrum is packed with antibodies and growth factors that strengthen the immune system and aid in faster healing of skin issues. Turmeric, a potent anti-inflammatory, can soothe inflamed skin, while salmon oil nourishes the skin, reducing dryness and itchiness associated with allergies. Furthermore, these supplements contain probiotics and prebiotics that enhance gut health, often contributing to skin issues. PetHonesty's chews are delicious and easily digestible, making them a favorite among pet parents and dogs. They offer a safe, natural approach to managing skin allergies in German Shepherds, supporting overall well-being and skin health. These supplements are composed of natural ingredients like nettle leaf, perilla seed, and quercetin which work together to relieve skin irritations caused by allergies. Nettle leaf has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce skin redness and itching. Perilla seeds are rich in rosmarinic acid, known for its anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. Hence they can help control and soothe skin reactions. Quercetin, a natural antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables, also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce skin irritation due to allergies. These chews are designed to be tasty and easy to eat, which makes administration simple. Vet's Best supplements offer a natural, effective way to manage your German Shepherd's skin allergies and promote healthier skin. NaturVet All-in-One is packed with many natural ingredients designed to promote overall health, which indirectly aids in managing skin allergies. It contains digestive enzymes to help the body process nutrients better, which could lead to improved skin health. It also has Omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids known for their positive effects on skin and coat health. These fatty acids can help maintain skin moisture and reduce inflammation, which benefits German Shepherds suffering from skin allergies. Furthermore, the glucosamine and chondroitin in the supplement support joint health, a crucial aspect for large breeds like German Shepherds. NaturVet All-in-One offers a comprehensive solution, not just tackling skin allergies but promoting the overall well-being of your German Shepherd. It's a natural blend designed to ease itching and comfort skin. Pet Wellbeing Itch Support Gold is a natural supplement for dogs with skin allergies and associated itching. It uses a mix of herbs that provide soothing, cooling effects and promotes a healthy inflammatory response. This supplement helps to alleviate the constant urge to scratch and bite at irritated skin, a common issue in German Shepherds with skin allergies. Beyond relieving itchiness, it supports skin health and can help to repair damage caused by persistent scratching. It comes in a liquid form that can be easily mixed with your dog's food for convenient administration. Opting for Pet Wellbeing Itch Support Gold not only eases your German Shepherd's discomfort but also supports the recovery and well-being of their skin. The Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, found in these tablets are vital for maintaining a healthy skin barrier, reducing inflammation, and improving your dog's skin and coat health. By strengthening the skin barrier, these tablets can help reduce allergic reactions and skin irritations that German Shepherds are prone to. Moreover, these chewable tablets are flavored, making them an easy and enjoyable addition to your German Shepherd's daily diet. Regular use can result in noticeable improvements in your dog's skin condition and relief from uncomfortable allergic reactions, making these tablets an essential part of managing skin allergies in German Shepherds. ProSense Skin and Coat Solutions ProSense Skin and Coat Solutions are fantastic for German Shepherds with skin allergies, offering essential nutrients to strengthen the skin barrier and maintain a healthy coat. ProSense Skin and Coat Solutions is a specialized supplement designed to maintain a healthy coat and mitigate skin allergies in dogs like German Shepherds. This supplement is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants known to reinforce the skin's natural barrier, reducing the likelihood of allergenic intrusions that cause skin irritations and discomfort. It can help to improve the skin's overall health, and its glossy, shiny coat mirrors this internal wellness. These tablets are flavored, which makes administration easy and enjoyable for your dog. ProSense Skin and Coat Solutions can help manage skin allergies effectively, leading to a more comfortable, itch-free existence for your beloved German Shepherd. It's a valuable addition to your dog's health regime, making life with skin allergies more bearable for them. They are packed with essential fatty acids to bolster skin health and reduce allergic reactions. These capsules are loaded with Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, renowned for their benefits in promoting skin health. These essential fatty acids strengthen the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system - all of which can help mitigate the effects of skin allergies. The supplement can significantly improve your German Shepherd's coat, making it shiny, smooth, and vibrant. In addition to boosting skin health, these fatty acids benefit heart health and joint flexibility, making this supplement an excellent overall health booster for your furry friend. Its easy-to-administer soft gel format ensures your German Shepherd gets the nutrients it needs without fuss. These supplements contain Omega-3 fatty acids, which enhance skin health and lessen allergic responses. In addition to boosting skin health, these essential fatty acids are known to support heart health, kidney function, and joint flexibility. This makes the supplements not just beneficial for skin allergies, but overall health as well. They come in a unique snip tip design, making it easy to administer. You can simply add them to your German Shepherd's food. The potent formula ensures a noticeable improvement in your dog's skin and coat condition, making it look more vibrant and healthier while simultaneously tackling the symptoms of skin allergies. This supplement is indeed a comprehensive solution for maintaining your German Shepherd's health. They provide Omega-3 fatty acids, vital for healthy skin and for reducing allergy symptoms. Vetoquinol Triglyceride Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplement Capsules is a potent supplement specially formulated to aid German Shepherds in dealing with skin allergies. The primary ingredient in these capsules is Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to fortify the skin barrier. By strengthening the skin's protective layer, it reduces the chance of allergens causing irritation and inflammation, alleviating skin allergy symptoms. Besides this, these fatty acids also promote a shinier and healthier coat, making your German Shepherd look their best. By including these capsules in your dog's diet, you can provide them with a comprehensive solution to tackle their skin allergy issues while enhancing their overall skin and coat condition. How do you treat German Shepherd skin allergies? Treating German Shepherd skin allergies involves a blend of dietary adjustments, supplements, allergy-specific medications, and topical treatments like shampoos or creams to soothe irritation. When treating skin allergies in German Shepherds, the first line of action often involves identifying and eliminating the source of the allergy. This could be certain foods, environmental factors, or specific materials like certain fabric types. A vet may conduct allergy tests to pinpoint the exact allergen. Once the allergen has been identified, it is crucial to remove it from the dog's environment or diet. If the allergen can't be completely avoided, several medical treatments are available, including antihistamines, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants. Some German Shepherds might require a combination of these treatments to effectively manage their allergies. Along with medical treatments, dietary changes can make a significant difference. Foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, such as fish oil, can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Similarly, certain supplements can enhance the immune system, helping the dog's body better deal with allergens. Topical treatments, such as medicated shampoos or creams, can relieve itchy and inflamed skin. Regular bathing can remove allergens from the coat and skin, reducing irritation. Are skin allergies common in German Shepherds? Yes, skin allergies are quite common in German Shepherds due to their dense coat and susceptibility to immune system disorders, which can lead to allergies. Skin allergies in German Shepherds are a common health issue due to several factors. First, German Shepherds have a double coat that can trap allergens such as pollen, dust, and mold, leading to allergic reactions. Second, the breed has a genetic predisposition to autoimmune disorders, which can make them more susceptible to allergies compared to other breeds. There are several types of skin allergies German Shepherds can develop. These include food allergies, atopic dermatitis caused by environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites , and contact dermatitis caused by a reaction to certain substances like specific fabrics or types of grass. Symptoms typically include itching, redness, and inflammation; in severe cases, hair loss and skin infections may occur. If you notice your German Shepherd constantly scratching, biting, or licking their skin, or if they develop skin rashes, hives, or other skin abnormalities, it's important to seek veterinary attention to determine if allergies are the cause and to initiate appropriate treatment. By managing allergen exposure and using appropriate treatments, the allergic reactions can be controlled, contributing to a better quality of life for your German Shepherd. Do grains cause skin allergies in German Shepherds? Grains can potentially cause skin allergies in German Shepherds, but it's not always the case. Some dogs may be sensitive or allergic to specific grains leading to skin issues. Whole grains such as wheat, corn, and soy are common allergens for many dogs, including German Shepherds. It is important to understand that not all dogs will react adversely to these foods. Sensitivity to grains often manifests as a food allergy, which can cause various symptoms, including skin problems. However, a true grain allergy is less common than sensitivity or intolerance. If your German Shepherd has a grain allergy, you might notice signs such as chronic ear infections, excessive scratching, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal problems like vomiting and diarrhea. Determining a grain allergy typically involves an elimination diet, where suspected allergens are removed from the diet, and then gradually reintroduced to see if symptoms recur. However, it's important to remember that grains are not the only potential cause of skin allergies. Protein sources such as beef, dairy, chicken, and eggs are common dog allergens. Thus, if your German Shepherd is experiencing skin allergies, it's crucial to work with your vet to identify the root cause, which could be grains or other food components. Always consult a veterinarian for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Final words Dealing with skin allergies in German Shepherds can be a challenging task. Still, it becomes a manageable concern with proper diet management, high-quality foods, raw diet options, and allergy supplements. We have explored the top brands providing dry and raw food choices for German Shepherds with skin allergies, underlining their unique benefits. Also, we have shed light on the best skin allergy supplements for these dogs, focusing on their specific benefits. It's crucial to remember that each dog's response to diet and supplements can vary; hence, monitoring your pet's reactions and progress is vital. Whole grains can potentially cause allergies, but they aren't the sole culprits, and other factors, such as chicken or beef, can also lead to allergic reactions. In all instances, a hypoallergenic diet tailored to your German Shepherd's needs can provide substantial relief and a better quality of life. Frequently asked questions Do you still have questions? Check our FAQ section, and you can find your answer here! Dog food with high-quality proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and hypoallergenic ingredients can alleviate itchy skin. Choosing the right food for a dog with itchy skin depends on the underlying cause. It could be a food allergy, environmental factors, or a skin condition. A diet high in essential fatty acids, particularly omega-3s, can help nourish and protect the skin. Hypoallergenic diets or limited ingredient diets can also be beneficial, particularly if the itching is due to a food allergy. Always consult a vet for individual dietary advice. Brands with negative reviews or recall history should also be avoided. German Shepherds thrive on high-quality, balanced diets. Foods that rely heavily on grains, low-quality proteins, and artificial preservatives or flavors can contribute to health problems, including digestive issues and skin allergies. Also, some brands have been subject to recalls due to contamination issues. Always check the ingredients and company reputation before choosing a food for your German Shepherd. Flea allergies are highly common in German Shepherds. They are allergic to the flea's saliva, leading to severe itching, redness, and discomfort after a flea bite. Flea allergy dermatitis is a prevalent issue among German Shepherds. The allergic reaction occurs when a flea bites a dog, leaving behind its saliva. The proteins in the flea's saliva can trigger an intense allergic response, causing symptoms like severe itching, inflammation, and skin lesions. Regular flea control measures can help manage this common allergy. German Shepherds' most common skin allergies are flea allergy dermatitis, food allergies, and environmental allergies, such as dust mites or pollen. In German Shepherds, flea allergy dermatitis, food allergies, and environmental allergies are the most prevalent skin conditions. These allergies can cause itching, redness, and discomfort. Identifying the specific allergen can help manage these issues effectively, reducing the severity of symptoms. The best approach to a German Shepherd's itchy skin is identifying the cause, and if it's an allergy, a hypoallergenic diet, vet-approved skin supplements, and regular grooming can greatly help. Identifying and eliminating the cause of itchy skin is essential for German Shepherds. If allergies are the root cause, a hypoallergenic diet can significantly reduce symptoms. Regular grooming helps to keep the skin clean and healthy, while vet-approved supplements can support skin health and boost the immune response. Your German Shepherd might be allergic to chicken if they show signs like itching, skin rashes, or digestive issues after consumption. Try switching to a different protein source and consult a vet. Food allergies, including chicken, can be common in German Shepherds. If your dog shows signs such as persistent itching, skin rashes, or digestive problems after eating chicken, it might indicate a food allergy. Switching to a different protein source and monitoring your dog's reaction can help identify if chicken is the problem. However, any suspected allergies should be discussed with a veterinarian for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Always consult with your vet. Hypoallergenic diets for German Shepherds typically involve food that has novel proteins, such as venison, rabbit, or duck, to which your dog has yet to be exposed. Hydrolyzed proteins are also used because they're broken down to a size less likely to trigger an immune response. Grain-free or limited-ingredient diets can also help identify and control allergens. Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content.
As a responsible pet owner, it is essential to ensure your Frenchie has the right sized crate to ensure their comfort and safety. Once you have determined the right size, you will then need to decide between a metal wire cage or a plastic crate. After you have identified the right size and type, you are ready to start crate training. Preparing the crate, introducing the crate, and following the crate training basics will help you and your Frenchie get off to the right start. What is a French Bulldog? Are you considering adding a French Bulldog to your family? They are known for being loyal, playful, and affectionate companions. They make excellent family pets, and their size makes them a great choice for those living in apartments or condos. Look for crates that are made from high-quality materials that are designed to provide adequate ventilation and provide your pup with plenty of space to move around. Make sure the crate is easy to clean and has a secure latch. Start slowly and gradually increase the amount of time your pup spends in the crate. Provide plenty of positive reinforcement and rewards when they stay in the crate. Not only does it help to keep your pup safe and secure, but it also ensures that your pup is getting enough rest and keeping out of trouble. Having a designated place to go when you need some alone time or when you need to run out for a few hours also helps to create a sense of security for your pup. Crate training helps to establish good behavior and can be used as a form of reward when your pup has been good. Crating also prevents destructive behavior, such as chewing and digging, which can help to save your furniture and other belongings. When selecting a crate for your Frenchie, be sure to consider the size of your pup. Remember that they should have enough room to turn around and stretch out, while still feeling secure. Pay attention to the height and width of the crate, as well as the material it is made from. Consider whether or not you will be taking your pup on trips with you, as some crates are designed for travel. Getting the right size of crate is essential, as it can help make crate training successful, as well as ensuring your Frenchie feels comfortable, secure, and safe. An Essential Guide for Pet Owners To start, measure your pup from the tip of their nose all the way to the tip of their tail while they are in a standing position, and add around four inches to that number. When it comes to finding the right type of crate, your best bet is to look for metal wire cages or plastic crates. Metal wire cages are the most popular, as they provide plenty of ventilation and are very durable. Plastic crates are also a good option, as they provide more privacy for your pup, making them feel more secure. Whichever you choose, make sure it has a floor tray and enough room for your pup to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Make sure the crate is tall enough for your pup to stand up and turn around in easily. With the right crate, your Frenchie will be able to relax and get the rest they need. Crate Types When it comes to crates for French Bulldogs, there are two types to choose from: metal wire cages and plastic crates. Metal wire cages are lightweight, easy to clean, and usually come with removable floor trays or divider panels. Plastic crates, on the other hand, are heavier and durable, but they are not as ventilated as metal wire cages, so they may not be ideal if your Frenchie is prone to overheating. Plastic crates come in a variety of sizes and can usually be folded down for transport or storage. Crates that are too small can be uncomfortable and cause anxiety for your pup, while those that are too large can encourage your pup to eliminate in one corner and sleep in the other. The best way to determine what size crate your Frenchie needs is to measure their length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail and their height from the floor to the top of the shoulders. Choose a crate with a removable bottom tray for easy cleanup. Another important factor to consider when choosing a wire cage for your Frenchie is bar spacing. If the bars are too far apart, your pup could escape or get stuck. Consider adding a divider panel to the cage. This will give them the comfort and security they need while ensuring the crate is large enough for when they reach their full size. Plastic Crates Plastic crates can be a great option for French Bulldogs as they offer more privacy and security than metal wire cages. They are also more lightweight which makes them perfect for transport and mobility. They can keep your pet calm, secure, and safe while you are out of the house. Just make sure to measure your Frenchie before you buy the crate to ensure that you get the right size. For the best results, it is recommended that you introduce your Frenchie to the plastic crate slowly. Let your pup get used to the crate by allowing them to explore and sniff around it. You can also place some treats and toys inside the crate to make it more comfortable and inviting. Make sure to reward your Frenchie every time they go in the crate — this will help to build positive associations. With some patience and consistency, your Frenchie will soon be comfortable in their new plastic crate. Crate Training Tips Crate training your French Bulldog is a great way to ensure their safety and comfort. Knowing the size of the crate that your pup needs is essential, as too large of a crate can be overwhelming, and too small of a crate can be constricting. To make it inviting, add a comfortable bed and some toys. If your pup has trouble transitioning, try a food puzzle or two inside the crate to occupy their time and make it fun. Make sure to provide plenty of positive reinforcement when your pup enters their crate. Over time, they should start to associate it as a happy place. Preparing the Crate Before introducing your Frenchie to their new crate, you need to prepare it properly. Start by lining the bottom with a soft bed or blanket. You can also add a toy or two for your pup to play with, as well as enough room for food and water dishes. Introduce your Frenchie to their crate gradually and give them treats to help associate the crate with positive reinforcement. If your pup is particularly anxious, you may want to consider using calming aids such as pheromone sprays or diffusers. With patience and positive reinforcement, your Frenchie will soon feel comfortable and secure in their crate. Start by making the crate inviting for your pup. Try to make it a relaxing and comfortable area for your dog to escape to. Be sure to give your Frenchie plenty of praise when they enter the crate. You can offer treats and verbal encouragement to reward them for going into the crate. Doing so will help your pup create a positive association with the crate. If they seem scared or overwhelmed, let them out and try again later. With patience and practice, your Frenchie will eventually love their crate and use it as their own safe space. Crate Training Basics Crate training your French Bulldog can be a great way to ensure your pup is safe and secure in your home. Introduce them to the crate slowly and make sure they have a positive experience. Start by leaving the door open and allowing them to explore as they please. Once they are comfortable, you can start closing the door for short periods of time and rewarding them with treats when they stay inside. Gradually extend the time they spend in the crate until they are happy to stay in it for longer periods. This will help them acclimate to the crate and make them more comfortable in it. The key to successful crate training is consistency and patience. With a little bit of effort, your pup will not only be crate trained, but also be comfortable and relaxed in their crate. Post Views: .Amazon Then add a few inches to the length so the bulldog can travel through the room comfortably. The French bulldogs should have a little extra room so they can walk, change the bed, and feel cozy. Keep in mind that French bulldogs are mostly medium-sized, and getting a medium-sized crate will be a good decision. What crate size fo r beagle? A properly sized crate will allow the pup to stretch and sit up until they grow fully. Because of its length and height, many pet owners use a inch crate for their puppy French bulldog. You can also shop for a large-sized dog crate with a divider panel so you can keep the pup in the right space and increase the room according to the growth of the puppies. So get the length and height of your puppy and choose the crate that matches the size. But remember, the puppy grows too fast and the crate will get too small too quickly. Therefore, we recommend you spend less money on the first gate. For adult bulldogs, you should only invest in the crates for longer use. What crate size for an australian shepherd? Purchase A Customizable Crate The size of the bulldog as a puppy is far different from the full-grown adult size. So the pet needs a smaller crate than the adult. But following the growth of the puppy, the demand for the larger crate also increases, and that takes repeated investments. To save money and avoid purchasing multiple crates, you can buy a crate in an adult size. But make sure it has a divider. Using this feature, you can keep the bulldog in the appropriate crate size and increase the room as they grow at any time. The split one will let you resize the crate of the dog and prevent it from offering too much space inside the crate while saving a large amount of money. The importance of the right-sized crate for the French bulldog The crate for the French bulldog should be too small for the dog, limiting its movement. Conversely, a right-sized crate will allow the French bulldog to move comfortably without crouching or squatting. Another important aspect of providing the right size crate is providing enough leg space for the bulldog to spread their legs without touching the wall, especially when lying on its side. Even you should be cautious about purchasing a too-large crate, especially if you are spacious enough for your adorable French bulldog. A large crate also has a detrimental impact on the effectiveness of French dog crate training. Some pet owners have experienced bulldogs using the corner of the large crate as a toilet. The main intention of offering a crate to the French bulldogs is to offer them a sense of protection as well as comfort. Therefore, a right-sized crate is a must needed. All dimensions are measured manually, please allow deviation of 1 inch. Adjustable Carrying Strap and Fleece Mat Include The crate frame is make of strong steel tube; the carte cover is made of Durable washable D fabric and hex mesh fabric; a well ventilated, stylish, lightweight and durable crate Fleece bed included: Quality fleece bed provide a comfortable place for your pet. Lightweight and easy to carry to all places Collapsible Bars with retractable Springs make setup simple and storage efficient Check Latest Price On Amazon 4. Best Soft French Bulldog crate — 2PET Foldable Dog crate I do go in depth on each of these down below so keep reading if you want more insights on each of these various dog crate options. Your French Bulldog should be able to turn around easily and sit up without having to crouch. If it is hitting his head on the top of the crate it is too small. You will also want to make sure your French Bulldog has ample leg room in the crate. He should also be able to stretch out his legs when lying on his side without hitting the walls. While you want the crate to be big enough for your Frenchie you will want to be careful about buying a crate that is too large. Too much space can negatively affect how useful the crate is as a training tool for your French Bulldog. If the crate is too big he could end up using one corner as a bathroom which defeats the purpose of it as a house training tool. The crate should give your Frenchie a feeling of safety and security. A crate with too much space will prevent your dog from achieving that sense of security. So, what size dog crate do you need for your Frenchie? Pro tip: having some treats available during this process can help make this go more smoothly. One way to do this is to have your French bulldog stand in the corner of a room with his backside against one wall. This way, you can mark the height and length measurements and get out the measuring tape after. French Bulldog crate Size — Measuring the Length of Your French Bulldog To accurately measure the length of your Frenchie, get him standing on all four paws and measure from the base of the tail to the very tip of his nose. Next, add a couple of inches to the length measurement which will allow him plenty of moving around space. Having a little extra space to move around, adjust his bed, and make himself comfortable is a good idea. Measure his height in this upright position from the floor to the tallest point of his big pointing Frenchie ears their big ears need room too! The length and height numbers you have come up with should give you your target crate size for your French Bulldog. You really have two options when it comes to getting a crate for your French Bulldog puppy. Get the height and length numbers for your puppy and get a crate that fits his dimensions. Just understand that your Frenchie pup will grow fast so the crate will quickly become too small. Once he reaches adult size, you can invest in a more expensive crate that will suit his needs into adulthood. The crate he will need during puppyhood will be much smaller than what he will need as an adult. It would take repeated investment and different crate sizes to keep as your puppy grows. Here are six popular options you can choose from. Metal Wire Dog crate — The metal wire dog crate is by far the most popular option. They are durable, they can be folded up for easier transport, they can be stored away, they can be set up easily, they can be cleaned fairly easily, and best of all they are affordable. For most Frenchies this option should be more than adequate if you just plan to leave the crate at home. While these metal wire dog crates are the most popular, you may get the following types of crates for the following main features and uses. Foldable Soft Dog Crate — When I first met my Frenchie puppy the Breeder I bought him from showed up with my little guy and his siblings packed inside one of these soft dog crates. The biggest benefit of soft crates is how portable they are. This crate is much easier to transport your Frenchie in than its metal counterpart. This is likely the best pet carrier for French Bulldog around town in your vehicle as well as for vacations and trips. These are also very affordable crates. In addition, it is easy to clean, and easy to collapse down. They are made of a soft fabric, have a thin metal frame, and come in some attractive designs. Decorative Wooden Dog Crate — This style of dog crate looks and functions as furniture while also being a dog crate too. They of course purely indoor crates. They can come in a style of an end table, night stand and more. There are many different brands each varying in colors, size, and shape so you can match it with your interior design. Wood end tables are the most common wooden dog crates but I have a friend who has a night table version for her Frenchie. Plastic Dog Crate — This is a very popular option as well and many people get plastic dog crates like these as travel carriers. This can help make the transport of your Frenchie to and from the vet easy for you. If you ever plan to fly on an airplane you can get an airline approved plastic crate as checked baggage pet crate transport. Plastic dog crates like these are lightweight. Heavy Steel Dog Crate — Made of a heavier thicker steel then the metal wire crates. This style of crate is really designed for chewers, scratchers and escape artist dogs. As you can see there are many styles of dog crates and the best crate for you depends on your needs. The intended uses and where you are going to use the crate will influence which type of crate to invest in. How long you can leave your French Bulldog in a crate? It really depends on how old your French Bulldog is. The rule of thumb my dog trainer told me is that, a puppy can hold their bladder one hour for every month of age. For example, if your puppy is three months old, they can hold it for about three hours. Now, if you have a trained adult French Bulldog can use its cage like a den. It can be in crate for overnight or up to 6 or 7 hours a day. French Bulldogs are prone to separation anxiety so if possible try not to leave your little guy alone for too long. One Simple Way To Make Your New Frenchie Puppy More Comfortable In His crate When you go pick up your French Bulldog puppy from the breeder you will be very excited but you must understand your new puppy will be somewhat stressed being separated from his mother and siblings. When we visited our breeder we saw that our little Frenchie slept in a pig pile with all of his other siblings. We picked up our Frenchie in the middle of Winter here in New Hampshire and our bedroom floor where we had the crate was somewhat cold. On top of putting a crate pad in there, putting some dog blankets in there, one other thing we did for our little puppy when we picked him up was to get him a heat pad. They even have electric heat pads for dog crates now. A simple little head pad like this can go a long way to help keep your Frenchie warm, feel less stress after being removed from his siblings, and sleep well at night. The Many Benefits of Owning a Dog crate There are a lot of great reasons to use a crate and its beneficial for both you and your Frenchie. Initially, the idea of using a crate may seem somewhat unpleasant due to its enclosed structure, but it can be very beneficial in training your Frenchie. If you want a secure personal space for your dog, then a crate is best to use. Below are some of the most common benefits of a dog crate for your consideration. Offer Your Frenchie Safety Whether the dog crate will be used at your house, transporting your dog in your vehicle, or even with you on a vacation, it will first and foremost be a safe place for your dog. As a rule of thumb you should keep your dog crate with you, especially when you are traveling. As much of a disappointment that might be it is quite normal and something all French Bulldog owners must deal with. A good crate will offer complete security due to their double locking system and this can help keep your dog safe. A crate can also help keep your Frenchie away from substances that might be bad for his health. Judicious use of the crate can prevent them from swallowing poisonous or dangerous substances. Keeping your little guy in a crate will help keep them protected and secured. A crate for your Frenchie can be used as a house training tool A crate is useful tool to help control the environment of a puppy to assist with house training. Our dog trainer had us start crate training our little Frenchie as early 8 weeks of age. All dogs are born with a natural inclination to keep their pee and poop out of the den that they sleep in. When you first start crate training, try to keep your Frenchie in the crate for short duration and do everything you can to make it a positive experience. The crate can help your Frenchie puppy bladder control by holding it in, even when they are inside. You must understand, once you take them out of the crate, they will instantly need to go to the bathroom. The crate should be a valuable tool to will assist you in their potty training and they will soon learn to keep their cages clean. A properly sized kennel can encourage your Frenchie not to muddle the place, where he stands or sleeps. Moreover, puppy also learns to control his discharge, in case of emergency situations. In this way, pet owners can get a huge benefit of litter training. Here is a short video with some great puppy crate training tips: 3. The crate should be a place of peace for your Frenchie After a busy day of playing, sleeping, eating, and playing some more they will need a peaceful place to relax. The crate will provide soothing feeling to your French Bulldog and soon he will become accustomed to this environment and associate it with relaxation. Be sure to never use the crate as punishment. By treating the crate as a comfortable bed to your pup, he will search for his crate whenever he is tired and in need of rest. As his owner you must be sure to keep his crate safe and peaceful. The crate should be his own personal space, where your beloved friend can go to relax. I have some other French Bulldog crate training tips here. Have crate — will travel Not all French bulldogs enjoy traveling in your vehicle although mine loves it! Another worthy mention is that travel in a car unrestrained can be dangerous for your Frenchie. A sudden stop could turn them into a projectile. To keep your dog relaxed and calm while you are in transit it is recommended to carry them in a crate. There are many different French Bulldog travel crates on the market that are highly portable. Many can easily be folded down into a very portable handbag. Travel crates like this can provide a safe and comfortable environment for your Frenchie anywhere. The see through panels on the top and side allow you to monitor your Frenchie and make sure they are doing ok on their road trip. Protect them during injury or illness If your Frenchie ever gets injured or sick, then a crate may help to protect them from further injury. This comfortable safe-haven can help soothe your little dog to help them recover. A Frenchie may need some protection from their self if they ever do suffer from an injury. Without protection some of their actions can increase his pain and slow recovery. A secure crate you can protect him against making it worse by restricting his movements. In turn, as the proud Frenchie parent you will also feel relieved when your wounded or sick pup will be kept in a risk-free and protected environment. This is the crate we personally use for our little Augie and he loves it. It has wire vents on the front, sides, and back. Looking at the reviews for this crate you can fly with it after some modifications have been made but that will take some further investigation with your airline to determine the exact current FAA laws. Durable plastic shell, non-corrodible wing-nuts, extra strong steel wire, and interlocking door provide heavy-duty protection. We wanted to make certain our French Bulldog had plenty of fresh air. The fact that it is made with recycled materials is a bonus! We wrap this padded bed with a couple small dog blankets for easy cleaning and to make it even cozier. We found the 31 x 23 inch pad fit perfectly into our crate and gave him a cozy bed to sleep on inside. In addition to the pet pad, we got a tip from the dog trainer to help our Frenchie sleep even better at night. She recommended that we drape a blanket over the top of that after putting him his crate at night. This makes it even darker in the crate while. We went with this cute decorative French Bulldog blanket which fit perfectly over our plastic crate. While it also sets up easily you can quickly fold it down into a portable suitcase-like package as well this makes it handy to bring on trips. This way you can buy one crate when your little guy is a puppy and then adjust the size as he grows. Just choose the size of crate that your French bulldog will need when it reaches its full adult size 30 inches should do the trick. The divider panel will allow you to adjust the length of the living area while your puppy grows, keeping the living space small enough to reduce the chance of your puppy going to the bathroom in one end and sleeping in the other. All and all this is a great crate and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable crate that will serve their Frenchie from puppyhood to adulthood. It can be a useful training tool and calm their anxiety. How do you find the best crate for your French Bulldog? Dogs are naturally denning animals and enjoy small spaces. Providing your French Bulldog with the proper size crate will give them a peaceful, quiet place for them to call home. It can be helpful when training them and keeping them secure when you are away from home. Below we will look at everything you need to know to pick out the right crate for your French Bulldog. What size crate do French Bulldogs need? Picking the best size crate for your French Bulldog is important. It needs to be comfortable for them but not too large. They should be able to turn around, stand and sit up without the need to duck under the top of the crate. The crate is too small if there is not enough room for their head. They should have room to lie down without hitting the walls. The crate should not be too large, either. There should not be an overabundance of space inside the crate. If the crate is too large, it can negatively affect any crate training. They could also use it as a bathroom. That would negatively impact its ability as a training tool. The crate should allow them to feel secure without having too much space. Measuring your French Bulldog for a Crate To pick the proper size crate for your French Bulldog, you will need to measure the length and height of your dog. Marking their height and length on a wall may be easier than fumbling with a tape measure while trying to get them to hold still. Using a treat can also help keep them in place long enough to make your marks. Use chalk or a similar marking device that can be cleaned off easily. When your dog is standing on all four paws next to your wall, mark his nose and the base of the tail to record the length. To capture the height, your dog will need to be in a seated position. Place a mark on the top of their ears to get the distance needed for the height of the cage. Once you have your marks, you can measure the distances with the tape measure. The length and height do not have to be accurate. You will need to add a few inches to the measurements to ensure your French Bulldog will have the room needed to move around inside the cage. As your French Bulldog puppy matures and grows, the crate will become too small for them. If you can, you can replace the crate as they get larger as they mature. When they reach adulthood, you will not need to replace the crate again; it will be their permanent home. You can also use the option to buy an adult-size crate when they are still a puppy and use dividers to keep the size of the crate comfortable without being too large. As they grow, you can move the dividers to resize the crate to keep it comfortable for your dog. Metal Wire Crate: These are the most popular dog crates available. They are durable, lightweight, and can be folded for transport. They are also easy to set up and clean. Best of all, since they are the most popular, they are also the most affordable dog crates available. Soft Crates: Soft dog crates and the best option for portability. They are perfect if you need to take your French Bulldog in your vehicle or on long trips. They are easy to clean and can be collapsed for storage. Wooden Crates: These crates are designed to look more like a piece of furniture than a traditional dog crate. End tables are the most common wooden crates, but they can be found as end tables as well as in other designs. Plastic Crates: Plastic crates are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. They are popular for travel, especially on long trips and aeroplane travel. There are airplane-approved plastic crates for use when checking your pet as cargo. Heavy Steel Crates: Mainly for home use, these crates are best suited for dogs that can be difficult to keep in a crate. These may be the best options if your dog is a chewer or tends to escape. It is better suited for one of the other style cages. How long your Frenchy stays in a cage depends on age. Puppies can tend to hold their bladder for one hour for each month of their age. Five-month-old dogs can be in a cage for up to 5 hours without a bathroom break. Adult dogs can wait up to 7 hours. French Bulldogs can get separation anxiety. The less time they are in the cage, the better they are. It may seem uncomfortable and unpleasant initially, but it can be a helpful tool, especially when training your dog. Crating your Frenchy will give them secure personal space. Below are some of the most beneficial reasons to crate your French Bulldog. Safety when Crating your French Bulldog No matter where you use the crate, it will be a place of safety for your dog. At home, when transporting them or on vacation, it will give them a safe and secure feeling. Crates can be used to keep your dog secure when you are not at home. Training tool for your Frenchie Crate training can help potty train your puppy. All dogs do not want to pee or poop in the same area they sleep in. Crate training can help reinforce where your puppy should use the bathroom. After a while in the crate, they will need to use the bathroom. Taking directly to the area they use the bathroom will help your French Bulldog learn the proper place to go. After a busy day of activity, they will need a place to relax. Their crate should provide a quiet and peaceful place for them to relax. The crate should never be used as a form of punishment. It can help keep them relaxed and calm while heading to and home from their destination. It will allow them to have the same comforts on vacation they have at home as well. Unlike a swing-out, hinged door, the Ovation Door can slide up and out of the way when not in use, thus eliminating the need for additional space. With its channel-track door frame, the crate is exceptionally strong and secure, and the low threshold of the door allows your pet to enter comfortably without having to climb any obstacles. Strong, sturdy metal crate design creates a safe place for your pet while you're away Little French Dog is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. It has two bottom mesh expandable sides that retract when not in use. It expands and collapses on both sides. This backpack has a spacious frontal mesh entrance that rolls up and Velcros in place. It has a mesh back window that lets in extra sunlight. Added durability with dual-reinforced stitching. An inner plush cushion covers the whole surface area and is reversible. PET LIFE 'Capacious' Dual-Sided Expandable Spacious Wire Folding Collapsible Lightweight Pet Dog Crate Carrier House, Small, Khaki The capacious crate almost triples in floor space by simply zipping opened the expandable sides Features an included Inner foamed and polyfill cushion that is built-into each side, and a built-in pouch for added belongings Folds and collapses in seconds, making it easy to travel and setup almost anywhere Great for both Indoor and outdoor usages and perfect for multiple pets or larger animals Available in multiple sizes and colors Little French Dog is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Casual Home Wooden Medium Pet Crate Wooden Crates: You can rest assured that your French Bulldog will have a cozy, private spot to sleep and relax when you use the solid wood pet crate end table. If you are away from home for a short period of time, you can rest assured that the gate door will remain locked. Solid wood construction for pet-safe durability and longevity Made in Thailand Lockable gate for your peace of mind Interior: 17"W x .Your Frenchie will benefit from fresh air and increased visibility thanks to the degree ventilation openings. Designed with a raised interior and tie-down holes, the kennel stands up to travel rigors while providing French Bulldog comfort. In addition to its durable plastic shell and the metal screws used to secure it, the kennel offers heavy-duty protection. It is easy to assemble this kennel with no tools at all, thanks to the stainless steel screws and plastic fasteners. Cleaning and wiping down the plastic material is easy. In addition to being easy to open with one hand, the latch provides a secure lock for the door, ensuring that it is securely locked. Product weight — 31 lbs. If in doubt, buy a size up. No tools required for assembly Airline Friendly Dog Carrier: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications. This travel dog crate also has ventilation on 4 sides. Little French Dog is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Conclusion Finding the proper size crate is necessary to keep your French Bulldog safe and secure at home and on the road. If their crate is too small, they can feel cramped and not have the space they need to move. Too large of a crate, and it can be an invitation for them to use it as a bathroom if they are left too long. Beside ratters, French Bulldogs are also good companion dogs. Nowadays they mostly focus on their job as fabulous show dogs and family friends. Certain colored fur can be rare so do not be surprised if you are put in the waiting list before you get one. These medium energy dogs are known as show dogs and ranked as 6th most popular dog breed by the AKC. French bulldogs are not for clean neat freaks because they drool a lot and are prone to flatulence and some shedding. They are dependable watchdogs but quite often become territorial. They also like to be the center of attention. Frenchies have average intelligence and do not bark excessively so they will be suitable your apartment living. Appearance French Bulldogs weigh under 28 pounds and are 11 to 13 inches in height. They appear as active, smart, and muscular dogs with heavy and relatively big bones. They have a smooth coat that comes in brindle, brindle white, cream, fawn, fawn white, fawn brindle, white, white brindle, white fawn, cream white, and fawn brindle white colors. There are 5 markings recognized by AKC which are ticked, black mask, brindle markings, piebald, and white markings but only the first is recognized as standard. Nutrition It is recommended to provide feed formulated to small-medium sized breeds. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available. There is no need for coat clipping since his hair is short in length. They do shed though.Doing so about once per week is sufficient and will keep his coat healthy and shedding to a minimum. Especially with French Bulldog puppies, clipping their toenails once a month is imperative. That will keep them from cracking, chipping or overgrowing. Bathe your French Bulldog as needed. Especially when he is a puppy, you can actually bath him in the sink. Keep their facial wrinkles dry and clean, especially when you bathe your pet. Brushing his teeth will be a must. Brushing several times per week should be enough to keep halitosis at bay. It will keep his teeth and gums on the healthy side and will help to prevent tooth decay and loss too. The ears should be checked and cleaned with a damp, warm cloth around the edge of the canal. Never use a Q-tip though. He may suffer from dry ears so a dab of oil, like baby oil, will do him good. His nose may have a tendency to be dry as well. A little baby oil will help it too. Consider starting grooming your dogs at a young age, teaching them to stand will make grooming much easier for you and your Frenchies. Do not forget to check if there is any skin lesions, scabs, bare spots, flaky skin, or infection to remedy. Exercise Frenchies do not need lots of exercise, as they are calm dogs. But to keep them fit at a healthy weight, take them for daily walks around minutes in duration. Monitor them on hot days to avoid overexertion since they do not endure heat very well. They are trainable, which makes them popular show dogs, but sometimes can become stubborn so make sure you or a professional train them firmly, yet gently. Leaving them with children and other dogs is okay, as long as it is under your close supervision. Their under-bite only adds to their attraction, which is in the eye of the beholder. The purpose of the breeding was to produce a smaller version of the Bulldog in order to serve for bull-bait in pit fighting. The French Bulldogs were wildly popular companion dogs with lace workers in England. When the workers migrated to France in search of better jobs, they brought their beloved French Bulldogs with them. The AKC first recognized the breed in .Popularity Today, French Bulldogs are all the rage. They are expected to become the most popular breed in the United Kingdom this year. In fact, they are so coveted in the US, they are the third most stolen breed! French Bulldogs have starred in their share of movies as well. Celebrities are wild about their Bulldogs. Sadly, one of the most famous Frenchies of all times was the one that was aboard the Titanic when it went down in .His name was Gamin De Pycombe. He belonged to a 27 year old banker named Robert Daniel who reportedly had purchased him for a small fortune prior to the trip. A passenger who survived the catastrophe reported to have seen the dog swimming but no traces of him were ever found. Behold the Beauty While some other dogs might look a bit more regal, beauty is definitely in the eyes of the one who beholds it. The flat-faced French Bulldog has a grace all its own. It sports a short, easy to care for coat and French Bulldog colors range from white or cream to brindle and most every combination in between. They are medium-size with unusually heavy bones and are built like tanks - short, stout and muscular. They are powerful pups, in no uncertain terms. Appearance While most Frenchies sport the same general look and feel and the same 28 pounds or less in weight, there are some exceptions. The Blue French Bulldogs have a blue hue or tint to their coat. The coloration is caused by color pigmentation due to genetics. There are Blue Fawns and Blue Brindles. French Bulldog size can vary too. Personality Frenchies are oozing with personality. They are curious, alert and playful. Their expressions are priceless. Although they have their fair share of energy, they are also able to relax with the family and can be quite easygoing. This breed is very entertaining. They enjoy the attention they get from doing amusing things which can be conducive to training.Frenchies are also humorous, and always into something. While they are compliant when they want to be, if they chose not to be, they definitely stand their ground. Frenchies are so stout and strong, they actually dig their heels in protest. So if you are trying to sway one.Possible Medical Conditions of Frenchies While your Frenchie may never incur even one single medical woe, there are a number of conditions that they are prone to get. One is deafness. It is passed down from generation to generation so do keep your eyes and ears peeled for any concerning signs or symptoms your dog portrays. A Baer test can be conducted by a veterinarian specializing in neuroscience if you suspect he may have a hearing problem. Hip Dysplasia is not uncommon in the breed at all. The condition involves the ball of the femur not residing in the pelvic socket as it should. It is characterized by pain, limping and sometimes complete immobility. Surgery can correct or improve the issue. Since dogs have three eyelids, an upper, lower and corner one, sometimes the third one, in the corner has a tendency to cause trouble in Frenchies. The membrane is designed to protect his eye but sometimes becomes inflamed and red. The underlying root of the protrusion can be removed and a surgical replacement of the membrane can be put in. Many dogs that sport the look are prone to the condition in which he may breathe noisily, snore and snort. The condition can affect his lungs too and make him exercise intolerant. Dogs with severe cases of the malady will breathe through their mouths. It is a squeezing pressure on it that causes the condition. If your Frenchie is undergoing anesthesia, it is a good idea to have him checked by way of a radiograph to eliminate the condition. If he does have it, extra precautions will need to be taken during surgery. Heat stress is common, across the board, to most Frenchies. While most dogs cool themselves off by panting, short-faced, short-snouted canines are unable to do so or at least not nearly as effective. It is imperative to realize his inability to deal with too much heat at all and to care for him accordingly. You will need to be firm yet loving. Lavishing attention on him will bring out the best in him. When you get him wanting to comply, training will be a cinch. Family Matters French Bulldogs are perfect pooches for family life. Perhaps that is why they are so popular. They absolutely love their humans and can, at times, become overly attached. They can also be very territorial. The two traits combined make the Frenchie a decent watchdog. Frenchies are very engaging. They are always up for a game of fetch or to play ball. They can also be found snuggling with the family on the sofa, watching television. They are quite sensitive to heat and to extreme cold too. On the flip side, they work well in small spaces, if need be. If you live in an apartment or rent a room, owning a Frenchie is not out of the question. They certainly have a mind of their own. While that makes for plenty of charm in the personality department, it also means that they can be so independent that they are stubborn. With lots of love and patience, French Bulldogs make excellent family members. If you can put up with a little bull-headedness, you might just find you are a French fan, just like so many others are. Crate training your dog can be very useful for you as well as your Frenchie. You can compare crate training to a cradle for a baby. A dog who has a crate they love is a safe haven for them, just like a cradle is for a baby. Crate training your dog may or may not be an easy task. Either way, a step-by-step plan can only be helpful. And, if followed, will make the end goal easier to reach. Many pet parents feel guilty or unsure about crate training, and understandably so. However, crate training is beneficial for your furry family member and can be a great thing. Your puppy will learn that their crate is their space and where they will rest, so they will want to wait to use the restroom when they are outside. Separation Anxiety Many dogs suffer from anxiety when left alone. This is not uncommon. While being put in a crate can add to their anxiety or stress, their crate can be helpful if it becomes their safe haven and a spot that makes them feel safe. Emergency Use Crate training your dog can lend to be very helpful in case of an emergency. If there is ever a situation where you must evacuate your home or go to a place where a crate is required, having a Frenchie who happily goes into their crate can keep this situation safe and smooth. Another emergency you could face with your dog is surgery on their part or yours. For their or your recovery, being able to have them in their crate is extremely helpful. For Convenience Crate training your dog really helps when it comes to daily life. There are often times when putting your sweet Frenchie away simply makes life easier. These times may include when guests come over for dinner, when fireworks are happening outside, a friend brings their pet over, you have errands to run, etc. A crate not only relieves stress or anxiety your dog may experience when daily life is altered a bit, but it can also help you. Senior Dogs Senior dogs who have been crate-trained will benefit greatly. Older dogs can use their crate as a space to get extra rest. Senior dogs will also like their crate when they no longer have the energy to entertain big groups or children. Crate Options Once you decide that crate training your dog is the right move to make, choosing the best crate will depend on several factors. There are many different crate options depending on your Frenchies size, activity level, and your future plans with the crate. Making sure you select the right crate can make all the difference in creating a comfortable, safe spot for your dog to feel at home. Size Crates come in varying sizes, usually about 20 inches to 48 inches. The ideal size of a crate depends on the size of your dog. Most Frenchies are medium-sized, so a medium-sized crate would be good. The intention is that once your dog is fully grown, they will be able to stretch out and sit up straight in their crate. Before puppies are full-grown, use the divider panel that comes with the crate to expand the crate size as needed. When purchasing a crate, look at the size chart to make the best choice. Crate Types There are three different types of crates: the wire crate, the fabric travel crate, and the plastic travel crate. They are each different. Wire crate A wire crate is the most popular option when crate training your dog. Customer support team based in Indiana We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. It is easy to set up and take with you and is intended for travel as they are lightweight and easy to carry. These crates can easily be chewed on, so they may not be suitable for puppies or any Frenchie that has a habit of chewing. Plastic Travel Crate A plastic travel crate is more robust than the previous two mentioned. It is made of plastic and is also used for travel since it remains set up and is easy to carry. This may be a better option than the fabric crate if you need to transport your dog. They are also easy enough to carry, and your Frenchie is not as easily able to chew them. Some people use these as fixed crates at home, but they are more enclosed than the wire crate. This makes it less desirable for many dogs and owners. Doggy Playpen A playpen is a route some pet owners like to take as opposed to or in addition to crate training your dog. A playpen allows your Frenchie more room for walking around and playing. Playpen Versus Crate Like a crate, a playpen contains your dog in one space. The biggest difference is their size. You may decide to use one over the other depending on your needs. Playpens typically come in two different materials: metal and fabric. The metal playpen is similar to a metal crate, only bigger. Playpen Use: Contain your dog to an area, but give them room to play. You need to leave your dog for a full day more than hours. Your dog prefers a larger space. Crate Use: Contain your dog to a smaller area sometimes makes them feel safer. Sleeptime may go better in a crate. Transportation to another place. You will train your dog to happily go into their playpen as you do the crate treats, slowly increase time, make it a fun space. Having both would allow your pup to have a confined space for sleeping the crate and a bigger area for when they are ready to walk around and play the playpen. You can choose to set the two up in separate places, using each for different purposes and at different times. You can also set the two up together where the crate will open into the playpen. This option would be used with a metal playpen. Of course, this setup will require more space. You could use the following to do so. Bed or Crate Pad A crate pad fits more precisely into a crate than a standard dog bed. Get one that is sturdy and difficult for them to chew, like this chew-resistant pad. Durable crate pads can be pricey, but it beats buying several fluffy, easy-to-chew ones. I like to buy dog pads that have a zip-off cover, making them easier to wash. Your dog will love to cuddle up in this dog bed. This is one tough dog bed. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Chew Toys Chewing can be calming for dogs and gives them something to do while they are in their crate. As mentioned before, providing chew toys will also prevent them from chewing their crate pad. Choosing appropriate toys for your dog is important. Make sure that your Frenchie cannot tear and eat pieces of the chew toy and that it is not too small for them. A chewable stick is a good option. If you have a puppy, you should not leave them in their crate for too long and they also are unable to hold their bladder for too long. In this case, refrain from leaving them water. An option for leaving water in the crate without it becoming a mess is to purchase a snap bowl that easily connects to the side of a wire crate. A regular water and food bowl can be left in the playpen if you leave for an extended amount of time. This can be done with adult dogs, not puppies who need to relieve themselves often. A Possible Step-by-Step Plan for Training Crate training your dog requires a lot of preparation and training, as you may know now. This is only a guide. You know your Frenchie and your situation best, so always do what works for both of you. This plan could also be used for a playpen with alterations where needed. Days Set the crate up and keep the door open for several days. Place a couple of toys and treats in the crate. Place their meal in the crate at times. Allow your Frenchie to choose when they are curious enough to go in the crate. Allow them to explore and find the treats on their own time. Do not shut the door during this time. Shut the door for just a moment while they are in the crate. Stay there and open the door right back up. Increase the length of time, but stay in sight. Days If your dog has responded well to the door closing while you are visible, try closing the door and leaving the room. Start out small and increase the time. Always open the door if they do not respond well. When your dog is able to stay in the crate while you are not visible, try leaving home for just a short time or even stepping outside. Increase this over time. Helping Your Dog Like the Crate In order to ensure that crate training your dog is successful, you want to help your dog like their crate. To do this, it should be a positive experience for them. There are ways to achieve this. Make it comfortable with a crate pad. Give them safe toys to chew on. Before you start to use the crate with the door closed, have the door open for some time, allowing them to go in and out as they please and not make a big deal of it. When you do begin to shut the door, start small by only leaving them in there for a few minutes and slowly increase that time. As mentioned, treats are important for helping your dog feel good about being in the crate. You can use treats to train your dog to go into their crate on their own eventually. Practice this many times before leaving them alone in their crate. Keep training sessions short and repeat them up to several times a day. Tire your dog out by playing with it or walking it before putting them in the crate to help them reach calmness and possibly a level of tiredness that will help them sleep. Length of Time in Crate Once you have trained your dog to freely go into the crate, it is time to try leaving them in the crate for an extended period of time. When you first leave your Frenchie alone in the shut crate, leave home for just a couple of minutes. You can simply go outside your front door to do this. When you return, give a treat and lots of praise. Slowly increase the time they are left in there while you are gone. Puppies should not stay in the crate for more than a couple of hours because they will not have access to water and also use the bathroom more frequently. Once your puppy is older, approximately 6 months, they can stay in the crate for several hours. All dogs are different, and as a pet parent, you should be able to determine how often your dog needs to use the bathroom. If you need to be gone for a full workday, come home on a break, or have a dog sitter let your Frenchie relieve itself at a minimum. Or, you can use the playpen at this time if you have one and your dog is older. There is a very good chance that your Frenchie will whine in the crate. If this happens, you should let your dog out. Maybe you could go on a walk, play together for a bit, or give them a potty break. Then, try again. Otherwise, try to get them to go in peacefully using treats and toys. Provide different or new toys that may pique their interest and distract your dog. If your dog does use the bathroom in their crate, there is likely an issue you resolve. Make their space smaller using the divider that comes with the crate. Use a special cleaner to rid of the smell since dogs often remark the same spots. Give them time to relieve themselves outside right before they go into the crate. Leave them in the crate for a shorter time. Is it Worth It? Most would say yes! Crate training your dog can seem like a lot of work, but all good things do, right? While it takes time and patience, having a Frenchie that can successfully use a crate can really come in handy. As always, your vet can help. Not only can crate training your dog help you as a dog parent, but it also helps your Frenchie in many ways when it comes to their happiness and safety. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. My French Bulldog crate size ultimate guide will show you how to measure your Frenchie and provide the best crate size for him or her. Follow my French Bulldog Crate Size guide for the best results! Your Frenchie will love you for it. From growing up as a puppy to an adult, a crate always comes in handy when traveling. Even when staying at home, a comfortable crate can provide a cozy corner for your pooch. When choosing a French Bulldog crate size , know that they are usually on the smaller side of the breed spectrum. A standard inch crate is not recommended for adult French Bulldogs since they can easily outgrow it, making them feel cramped and uncomfortable. Instead, look for inch crates or more significant to give your fluffy more room. French Bulldog crate size is usually smaller than the English or American Bulldog crate size. The reason is the body sizes of each dog breed , respectively. There should be enough room for your Frenchie to move around a little, but not too much. Your Frenchie should be comfortable moving about swiftly in its crate without the need to squat or crouch. The crate is too small if it reaches his head at the top of the crate. He should be able to spread his legs without touching the walls while lying on his side. You should be careful about buying a crate that is too big if you want your Frenchie to have enough space inside. Your dog should not have any extra room inside the crate. Too much room may have a detrimental impact on how effective the crate is for your French Bulldog as a training device. He might end up using one corner as a toilet if the crate is too big, which defeats the intent of it as a home training tool. The crate should provide a sense of protection and comfort for your Frenchie. A crate with too much room will prevent the sense of protection from being reached by your dog. This will help you decide on a good starting point for crate size. Measure the length of your Frenchie from nose to tail, then add an additional 3 inches for optimal comfort and maneuverability inside the crate. Determine the ideal crate height that will allow your pup to stand up and turn around comfortably inside the crate, as well as sit in a comfortable position with the head elevated out of the crate. An adult French Bulldog needs a larger crate of inches long, inches wide, and inches high. A cozy bed in the bottom of the crate and a warm blanket are nice additions if your Frenchie likes to snuggle up. Also, check for any openings or spaces that may be large enough for your French Bulldog to get out of. Getting the right crate is an important part of preparing a safe and comfortable home for your French Bulldog. Choose wisely to make sure your pup stays safe and happy! This involves purchasing two or more crates of different sizes and using them in combination. For example, you can buy an adult-sized crate for your Frenchie and then purchase a smaller puppy-sized crate that fits inside the bigger one. By using the two crates in tandem, you can slowly transition your pup from the smaller crate to the larger one as they grow. Plus, having a bigger and roomier adult-sized crate gives your pup plenty of room to stretch out and relax. These types of crates come with adjustable walls that can be moved to suit the size of your Frenchie. Plus, customizable crates are great for those who want to keep their pup in one place at all times and provide them with plenty of room to move. With a little bit of research and planning, you can find the perfect French Bulldog crate size that will keep your pup safe and comfortable for years to come. Get the Right Size Crate If the crate is too small, your dog will be uncomfortable and may try to escape. If the crate is too large, your dog may be able to relieve themselves inside of it. The general rule of thumb is to get a crate that is big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. This will help to keep them occupied and distracted from the fact that they are in a confined space. Cover the Crate. In most cases, a wire crate is perfect for a french bulldog. The one we recommend is the MidWest double door foldable wire crate click here to check the current price on Amazon. What we like about it This wire crate offers an open view of the room from the inside of the crate allowing the dog to be part of the activity around him which could comfort him and help him feel safer and relax. Exploring the crate is a very important step in crate training; this crate makes it easier with its two doors feature which is a great help especially at the early stages of crate training. The wire crate is completely foldable and easy to move around the house which is great if you need to move it to your room at night to keep an eye on your puppy at night or for travel by car. Easy to clean, since it comes with a removable easy to clean tray that you can clean in a minute, which is very helpful especially when crate training a young puppy. The wire crate is safe and very sturdy, it provides a safe controllable environment for most french bulldogs and also available ina more robust version if you have an aggressive dog. It can be attached to a playpen if you want to use one in case of leaving the dog alone for too long or if you just want to give your dog more space to play. It has a crate cover that fits it and you can even use it with some foam to soundproof it if you live in an apartment. You can get the crate the bed and the cover, all for less than 80 dollars. The one we recommend and why For a french bulldog, the best wire crate is the Midwest foldable double door crate with a divider. Click here to check on Amazon This wire crate is by far the best not only for french bulldog but for crate training in general. It helps a lot with the introduction and exploring the crate making it easy to lure the dog inside it. It comes with great features like the divider panel and the double doors. Here is a helpful video from the manufacturer showing you how to install the divider panel to adjust the crate size. How to install a divider panel on a Midwest wire crate for french bulldog Best plastic crate for french bulldog Plastic crates are very popular especially for small breed dogs, and they do a great job, and in most cases, they are great for travel since they meet online requirements for pet travel. If you decide to go with a plastic crate we recommend Petmate Vari Kennel click here to check the current price on Amazon. What we like about it This crate has degree ventilation openings, unlike most plastic crates the dog can get fresh air and a better degree of visibility. It is easy to assemble and therefore easy to clean in case of potty incidents. It can be moved around easily if you need to relocate it for the night to have the dog closer to your bed. This crate is sturdy enough for a regular French bulldog and will last long enough. With only a few tweaks metal bolts it can meet most airline requirements for air travel. It works great for car travel in fact it does a better job than most crates. It provides a den-like environment that allows you to reduce outside distractions at night and help your dog sleep well through the night. It does not work well for an aggressive dog and he will probably chew through it. The size charts for plastic crates are almost all the time wrong you always have to take one size larger and this one is no exception. You have to buy metal bolts to make it extra secured and for travel requirements. The one we recommend and why For a french bulldog, the best plastic crate is the Petmate Vari Kennel. This plastic crate is the best for french bulldog especially if you take your dog for road trips. Unlike most plastic crates it is sturdy enough for a regular french bulldog. It has degree ventilation openings for better visibility and ventilation. Best wooden crate for french bulldog If you are convinced that crate training your french bulldog is important but your house interior decor is equally important, then a wooden crate is the best choice for you. It is sturdy and made out of solid wood making it a great option even for overly excited Frenchies. It comes in many color designs winch is great for home decor maniacs. Surprisingly easy to clean, unlike most decorative dog crates. It has a open view which is great for your puppy to have visibility and to keep an eye on you while relaxing in his crate. The price is clearly cheap for a wooden good looking end table crate. Not the easiest to assemble and you need some basic tools to do it. Not easy to move around, so if you ant your dog to sleep in your room at night it will be hard to move it around the house. This decorative wooden crate looks great and is available in different colors. It is sturdy enough for a french bulldog and looks great in your living room or kitchen. Taking a french bulldog on a road trip or on vacation is certainly exciting but you have to think about safety first. Making sure your partner is safe and comfortable during travel is a priority and what a better way to do it than to choose the best travel crate for your french bulldog. I decided to dissect this part into two sections of car travel and plane travel because each one is different and has special requirements. Best car travel crate for french bulldog Best car travel crate for french bulldog When we talk about car travel the risk is high, so safety is the priority. Your dog must be secured in the back of the car away from the driver. So to make our choice we have only two options; wire crates and plastic ones. The wooden crates are too heavy to move around and unpractical to load on a car and soft-side crates are too easy to get out of making them dangerous. Car travel often means your dog will most likely be in the back of the car next to your luggage so you need a strong crate that will keep the dog safe at all times and in case of an accident. Although plastic crates are good for travel we find that the wire crate is much stronger and safer for car travel. This crate is the stronger version of the wire crate we suggested earlier, for more safety and the double door makes it even safer in case of an accident you can easily get the dog out in case the main door is jammed or damaged. Best airline travel crate for a french bulldog airline travel has some very strict requirements when it comes to pet travel carriers. You want to check the IATA pet travel guide for more information. Not all airlines have the same pet travel rules, so you want to check with your airline before you head to the airport. Best playpen for french bulldog Some of you may have to work a full-time job while crate training a french bulldog puppy. However, making a choice between a crate and a playpen could be hard and you can read our article about crate vs playpen and which one is best. But why make a choice between a crate and a playpen if you can have both?! There is a playpen and crate combined solution that will make sure your dog still spends time in his crate and at the same time has a playpen to walk around and play. We recommend the Midwest metal exercise playpen click here to check the current price on Amazon. Related Posts.
Life Span Did You Know? Although the Poodle is the national dog of France, they actually originated in Germany over years ago where they were commonly used as a duck hunter. Their curly coat protected them from the elements and they were bred for their excellent swimming skills, high intelligence, and incredible retrieval skills. The Poodle comes in three sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Throughout history, this dog breed has served many purposes. From living in the lap of luxury as companions to nobility to working out in the field as a valuable hunting companion to entertaining people in circuses around the world, the Poodle is right at home. Although they are more popular as a companion dog, the Poodle still maintains their athleticism and working dog instincts. Poodles are known for their intelligence, cheerful disposition, and sensitive nature. They are versatile dogs that make great family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their sensitive nature, they tend to be a better fit for older children who understand how to approach and interact with a dog appropriately. These dogs prefer peace and harmony in the household, so very young children that are too loud or rough can stress them out. The Standard Poodle also tends to be quite energetic until they are about two years old and may be prone to knock over small children in their excitement. Standard Poodles also tend to make great watchdogs and have some protective instincts. Without proper socialization, they can become skittish, nervous, and wary of strangers. Making sure any puppy is socialized early and often helps them grow into a confident, well-rounded dog. Standard Poodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their energy level tends to make them better-suited for larger homes with room for them to run. But, they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive the exercise, mental stimulation, and affection that they need. They tend to do well in most climates. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to very hot and very cold weather. These dogs are in-tune with their owners and thrive on human companionship and affection, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Poodles are a relatively healthy dog breed, but there are some potential health concerns to be aware of. Because of their larger, barrel-chested body type, the Standard Poodle is also at risk for bloat. Responsible breeders will screen and test their stock to ensure the genetic propensity for breed-related conditions is not passed along to the puppies. Poodles are highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please their owners. They are highly trainable, pick up things quickly, and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Because they are sensitive and in-tune with their owners, they respond best to consistent, positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Poodle coats are curly or corded and come in a wide variety of colors. Although Poodles are known for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats, their coats still require a lot of maintenance. Keeping your Poodle in a short clip can help reduce daily maintenance, but still requires regular professional grooming every four to six weeks to maintain it. A longer coat requires daily brushing in order to prevent matting in addition to professional grooming every four to six weeks. Regular professional grooming often helps with this as nail trimming should be done monthly, at least, to keep nails from growing too long. Dental care for dogs , like brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day, is essential to protecting them from painful dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You, your dog, and your groomer will thank you for it! Who knows? If you ensure these experiences stay positive, they could even become a bonding time that your dog enjoys. These are high energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation every day in order to be happy and healthy. They love to stay busy and may enjoy running with you, going for a swim, taking trips to the dog park , hiking with you, and more. They also tend to be a good fit for several dog sports, such as agility, dock diving, obedience, flyball, tracking, and more. A fully-grown Standard Poodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. They can be slightly smaller than the usual as the Standard size is denoted by being more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder. A Standard Poodle generally lives years. Featured Standard Poodle Article. Life Span Did You Know? Although the Poodle is the national dog of France, they actually originated in Germany over years ago where they were commonly used as a duck hunter. Their curly coat protected them from the elements and they were bred for their excellent swimming skills, high intelligence, and incredible retrieval skills. The Poodle comes in three sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Throughout history, this dog breed has served many purposes. From living in the lap of luxury as companions to nobility to working out in the field as a valuable hunting companion to entertaining people in circuses around the world, the Poodle is right at home. Although they are more popular as a companion dog, the Poodle still maintains their athleticism and working dog instincts. Poodles are known for their intelligence, cheerful disposition, and sensitive nature. They are versatile dogs that make great family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their sensitive nature, they tend to be a better fit for older children who understand how to approach and interact with a dog appropriately. These dogs prefer peace and harmony in the household, so very young children that are too loud or rough can stress them out. The Standard Poodle also tends to be quite energetic until they are about two years old and may be prone to knock over small children in their excitement. Standard Poodles also tend to make great watchdogs and have some protective instincts. Without proper socialization, they can become skittish, nervous, and wary of strangers. Making sure any puppy is socialized early and often helps them grow into a confident, well-rounded dog. Standard Poodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their energy level tends to make them better-suited for larger homes with room for them to run. But, they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive the exercise, mental stimulation, and affection that they need. They tend to do well in most climates. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to very hot and very cold weather. These dogs are in-tune with their owners and thrive on human companionship and affection, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Poodles are a relatively healthy dog breed, but there are some potential health concerns to be aware of. Because of their larger, barrel-chested body type, the Standard Poodle is also at risk for bloat. Responsible breeders will screen and test their stock to ensure the genetic propensity for breed-related conditions is not passed along to the puppies. Poodles are highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please their owners. They are highly trainable, pick up things quickly, and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Because they are sensitive and in-tune with their owners, they respond best to consistent, positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Poodle coats are curly or corded and come in a wide variety of colors. Although Poodles are known for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats, their coats still require a lot of maintenance. Keeping your Poodle in a short clip can help reduce daily maintenance, but still requires regular professional grooming every four to six weeks to maintain it. A longer coat requires daily brushing in order to prevent matting in addition to professional grooming every four to six weeks. Regular professional grooming often helps with this as nail trimming should be done monthly, at least, to keep nails from growing too long. Dental care for dogs , like brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day, is essential to protecting them from painful dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You, your dog, and your groomer will thank you for it! Who knows? If you ensure these experiences stay positive, they could even become a bonding time that your dog enjoys. These are high energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation every day in order to be happy and healthy. They love to stay busy and may enjoy running with you, going for a swim, taking trips to the dog park , hiking with you, and more. They also tend to be a good fit for several dog sports, such as agility, dock diving, obedience, flyball, tracking, and more. A fully-grown Standard Poodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. They can be slightly smaller than the usual as the Standard size is denoted by being more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder. A Standard Poodle generally lives years. Featured Standard Poodle Article.
Do you hand make unique gift items? Do you frequent a local dog loving spot? Maybe you have a beach or mountain house? If any of these apply to you, we need your help! We are seeking in-kind donations to make our upcoming events a huge success. Please click the button below share your information and a volunteer will contact you. In-Kind Donation Form International Rescue Want to learn more about our international efforts and how you can help golden retrievers in need? Click the button below. Here you can interact with our available dogs, complete foster training, and learn how you can become involved with supporting NRGRR. See the calendar below for details. Please click on the event to see the list of dogs attending. Event Calendar Make a donation. Our volunteers give their time, their homes and their hearts to every dog who comes to us for help. Unfortunately, warm homes and loving hearts alone do not pay for the medical care and supplies our dogs need. Sadly, the number of golden retrievers who have entered our program, and the costs related to their medical care, have dramatically increased over the past several years. When you make a tax-deductible gift to the Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue, you can be assured that your donation is directly supporting golden retrievers rescued through our program, and allowing us to continue to provide help to others in the years to come. Thank you for your support. Box , Raleigh, NC Phone: .We have answers. Give me some fun facts about Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Jacksonville! Golden Retrievers are intelligent, loyal and loving family dogs! They have a double coat and specially designed water-repellent outer coat and a downy under coat that helps them stay warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather. They are incredibly friendly dogs and generally get along with everyone they meet. Golden Retrievers are eager to please and easy to train. They are the fourth most popular dog breed in the United States, and make excellent family pets. Not surprisingly, Golden Retrievers make excellent guide dogs and are often used for search and rescue work. Are Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Jacksonville non-shedding? Golden Retrievers are not non-shedding dogs. They are known to shed quite a bit throughout the year. To reduce the amount of shedding, they need to be groomed regularly. Furthermore, providing them with a healthy balanced diet and plenty of exercise helps to reduce their shedding significantly. It is also important to regularly brush their fur and groom their coat to keep the amount of fur and dander in check. Some owners may need to vacuum or sweep more often if their pet has a heavy coat, along with administering the appropriate flea treatments. How do I know what not to feed Jacksonville Golden Retriever puppies for sale? Golden Retrievers have a unique dietary need based on their age, lifestyle and activity level. It's important to check with your veterinarian to ensure you are feeding your dog a well-rounded, nutritional diet. It's best to avoid foods that are high in fat or sugar and other ingredientsthat are known to be toxic to dogs, such as grapes, raisins, onions and garlic. Additionally, do not feed your dog human food or food scraps from the table. While it may seem harmless, the richness of many human foods can lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis. Am I ready to adopt Golden Retriever puppies in Jacksonville? Preparing your home for your new Golden Retriever is an exciting and important task. Firstly, puppy-proof the area ensure all dangerous objects such as wires, strings, and small items are securely hidden and away from the puppy's reach. You should install a secure gate or fencing to the yard to ensure your pup stays safe. Second, get your puppy used to the crate place it in a quieter area of the house and make sure there's a bed and blankets inside, with a few favorite toys nearby. How big do Golden Retrievers for sale in Jacksonville get? Golden Retrievers are considered to be large-sized dogs, with males typically reaching between 22 and 24 inches at the shoulders, and weighing around pounds. Females are slightly smaller, usually reaching between 20 and 22 inches in height, and weighing around pounds. Due to their thick fur, they may look larger than they actually are. Golden Retrievers are not considered to be overweight unless their body condition score is seven or higher on a nine point scale. Thus, it is important to not overfeed them. How many minutes per day should I walk Golden Retriever puppies near Jacksonville? It is important to provide exercise for your Golden Retriever daily; however, the precise amount of walking required depends on the individual dog's age and overall health. Generally speaking, Golden Retrievers need at least 30 minutes of exercise or activity each day. This helps strengthen the bond between you and your pet, while providing the necessary stimulation to help prevent boredom and other undesirable behavior. In addition to daily walks, providing plenty of chew toys and other interactive activities can add to the enjoyment of your pet. Are Golden Retrievers in Jacksonville good family dogs? Golden Retrievers make great family pets. They are known for being loyal, reliable, and intelligent. Goldies tend to be gentle-natured and loving, and will develop a deep bond with their family. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, so they're always up for a game of fetch or a walk. They tend to be good with children, other pets, and strangers, so you won't have to worry about your Golden having trouble with introductions. Is training Jacksonville Golden Retrievers for sale easy? Training a Golden Retriever can be a rewarding experience for both the dog and its owner. Just like any other breed, golden retrievers require patience, consistency and positive reinforcement. With the right approach, it is possible to achieve desired results over time. To ensure a successful training process, it is important to make sure your golden retriever is motivated and interested in learning. Additionally, the sessions should be kept short and fun so that it remains a positive experience. If done correctly, these steps can lead to an obedient, well-behaved pet that positively responds to commands.
Breeds The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and for a good reason. They make wonderful family pets due to their friendly personalities, endless loyalty, and high intelligence. However, before bringing one into your home, it is essential to consider the costs associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In this article, we'll explore the question, "How much does a Golden Retriever cost? The overall price of a Golden Retriever can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the dog's age, lineage, and location. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that buying a puppy is just the beginning of the expenses associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In addition to the initial price, routine vet visits and vaccinations are necessary to keep your Golden Retriever healthy and prevent illnesses. These costs can add up quickly, especially in the first year of your dog's life when they require more frequent check-ups and vaccines. Your dog will typically require annual check-ups and routine vaccinations throughout their life. You can also choose to microchip your pet for additional security measures. Another ongoing expense associated with owning a Golden Retriever is grooming. While Golden Retrievers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming compared to some other breeds, they do require regular brushing and occasional baths. So, you will need to set aside adequate funds for this care. A Golden Retriever puppy cost can vary. The overall price will depend on whether you choose to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a rescue organization. However, it is essential to note that some breeders will charge more for puppies that have exceptional bloodlines or rare coat colors. If you choose to adopt a Golden Retriever puppy from a rescue organization, the adoption fee is usually much lower than the purchase price from a breeder. It is important to note that adoption fees will usually cover the cost of veterinary care, food, and shelter for the puppy while in the rescue organization's care. Often if you choose to adopt from a rescue or dog shelter, the pet will come into your family already spayed or neutered and up to date on all vaccinations. Color One of the most significant factors is the color of the puppy. Golden Retrievers typically come in shades of gold, but some may have a slightly darker or lighter coat, which can create variations in their price. For instance, puppies with lighter-colored coats may be more expensive than those with darker coats. Bloodline Puppies with a pedigree from a well-known champion bloodline are often more expensive than those without a proven lineage. This cost difference is because they are likely to have a superior appearance, temperament, and overall health characteristics. Often dogs from such lineage come with documentation and official paperwork to verify their background. A quality breeder who has invested time and resources in breeding and raising quality Golden Retrievers may charge a higher price for their puppies. This reason is that they are more likely to provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Estimated Size Finally, the estimated size of the puppy can impact the cost. Typically, male Golden Retrievers are larger than females, and puppies from larger litters may be smaller than those from smaller litters. Owing to that, puppies from a smaller litter may be more expensive as they tend to be in higher demand. Overall, it is essential to consider all of these factors when looking to purchase a Golden Retriever to ensure that you get the best value for your money. As we've discussed, the cost of purchasing and maintaining a Golden Retriever can quickly add up. However, investing in a GPS-tracking dog collar is one way to protect your investment in your furry friend. A GPS-tracking dog collar can help make sure that your Golden Retriever doesn't wander too far from home or get lost. This feature is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of traffic or wildlife, where your dog could be at risk of injury or getting into dangerous situations. A GPS tracking dog collar can help you quickly locate your dog if they do manage to escape, allowing you to bring them home safely and quickly. No doubt a GPS-tracking dog collar is an additional expense, but it can provide peace of mind and protection for your furry friend, making it a worthwhile investment for any Golden Retriever owner. It can give you the confidence to let your dog explore and play freely while still being able to keep an eye on their location and well-being. Incorporating the Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar into your Golden Retriever's routine can help ensure their safety and security while enjoying all the joys of owning this beloved breed. The collar has a long battery life and is water-resistant, making it durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The collar also offers activity tracking, which can help you monitor your dog's exercise habits and ensure they are getting enough physical activity to stay healthy. Golden Retriever Breed Guide The Golden Retriever is a popular breed known for being friendly and having an affectionate personality. They are intelligent, eager to please, and have a gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. They are typically very patient with children and get along well with other animals, making them an ideal companion for families with kids or other pets. Golden Retrievers are considered to be a medium to large breed in terms of size and weight. Males typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand in inches between 23 to .Alternatively, females weigh between 55 pounds to 65 pounds and stand in inches between .Golden Retrievers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 14 years. Golden Retrievers are an active breed. They frequently require multiple sessions of daily exercise to stay in peak shape. They enjoy many types of outdoor activities, including swimming, fetch, and hiking. These dogs make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, they can also adopt a more laid-back lifestyle if they don't receive regular exercise. The lifetime care costs of a Golden Retriever will often depend on factors such as their health, age, and lifestyle. Budgeting for these costs and planning accordingly to ensure that your furry friend receives the care they need throughout their lifetime is essential. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Golden Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog can be significantly less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder, and it also helps to reduce the number of dogs in shelters. Another way to save money is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may have already gone through the training process, which can save on the cost of obedience classes and training supplies. They may also be less demanding in terms of exercise and may already be house-trained, which can save on cleaning and flooring expenses. When buying a Golden Retriever puppy, it's crucial to find a breeder who will always prioritize the health and life quality of their dogs. A breeder should be able to provide you with health guarantees, documentation of the puppy's lineage, and proof of vaccinations and other necessary medical treatments. Moreover, it's also a good idea to visit the breeder's facility and meet the puppy's parents, if possible, to get a sense of the breeding environment and the temperament of the puppies. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option when buying a Golden Retriever, doing so can lead to additional expenses down the line if the puppy develops health problems that require expensive medical treatment. A reputable breeder may have higher upfront costs but is more likely to produce healthy puppies with fewer genetic health issues. This initial extra cost can ultimately save you money and heartache in the long run. By taking the time to research breeders and consider all options carefully, you can save on the initial cost of owning a Golden Retriever while still providing a loving home for a furry companion. Conclusion: The Cost of Owning a Golden Retriever In conclusion, owning a Golden Retriever can be a fulfilling experience, but it is crucial to consider the upfront and ongoing costs that are commonly associated with owning one. By understanding the factors that impact the price tag of a Golden Retriever and exploring ways to reduce those costs, you can ensure that you are providing the best care for your furry friend without breaking the bank. Lastly, you will want to consider how to protect your newest family member and the investment that comes with them. The Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar is a cutting-edge style of technology that offers dog owners an extra layer of protection for their furry friends. The collar uses GPS technology to track your dog's location in real time and sends alerts to your phone if your dog leaves a designated safe zone. This feature can be beneficial in the event that your Golden Retriever ever goes missing or wanders off, giving you the ability to quickly and easily locate them. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. This will allow your veterinarian to become more comfortable and familiar with your dog, making it easier for them to detect unusual changes. Aside from vet bills, pet insurance is an important investment that most dog owners tend to ignore. You may not be able to avoid employing the services of pet daycares, dog walkers, and others if you are going out of town or busy with work. These kinds of services are becoming increasingly popular these days. Your pet will be cared for by trained pet handlers at pet daycares. Travel Expenses: If you enjoy traveling with your Golden Retriever, you may need to pay some extra fees because many hotels do not allow pets. Dog Training: This breed has a high level of intelligence. With the right puppy training, your puppy should be able to learn a variety of tricks. Basic obedience training and socialization are important for a growing Golden puppy. Emergency Medical Treatment: Medical emergencies cannot always be avoided. Of course, these scenarios typically come at a high cost. This breed is recommended to visit a professional groomer once every 8 to 10 weeks. All these potential expenses are optional, except for emergency medical treatment. You can learn how to avoid these fees entirely as you go, which will save you even more money if you want to be practical. Make sure to talk to the breeder before adopting or buying, as not all breeders have the best intention for their puppies. They also raise funds for canine health research. Their puppies are sold with a contract for neutering or spaying as well as a registration from the American Kennel Club. This means that the quality of their dog is in their best interests. Sun-Golden Kennels — This Golden Retriever breeder operating in Wisconsin raises all of their dogs in their home, so the temperament is fairly balanced. They allow their dogs to run around inside their home and sleep beside their bed to socialize with them. They also involve them in activities such as playing ball, hiking, and swimming with other dogs. The rescue organization also houses other breeds such as the Labrador Retriever and mixed breeds like the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle aside from Golden Retrievers. Their dogs are ready for adoption and have undergone health screenings, rabies vaccinations, heartworm vaccinations, deworming, neutering, and flea and tick treatment. This shelter is open to long-distance adoption in collaboration with other regional rescue groups, as long as the adoptive family meets specific guidelines and conditions. These fees are usually used by rescues for vet bills, registration papers, and other expenses for their dogs. You can also check out our compiled list of reputable Golden Retriever breeders and rescue organizations that house purebred Golden Retrievers to help you with your search for your perfect dog. You may also want to read our ultimate dog adoption guide to ace your adoption application at any of the rescues listed above. Here are some money-saving tips for Golden Retriever owners: Make your own food and treats. Instead of buying store-bought dog food and treats for your Golden, you can learn how to make them yourself. Recommended dog food for the Golden Retriever includes chicken , healthy whole grain meals, approved veggies and fruits, and unseasoned and natural ingredients. Consider home grooming. Grooming a Golden does not have to be a difficult chore. Grooming Golden Retrievers cost a fortune when brought to a professional groomer. Your dog does not require as much grooming as many other breeds. The simple task of brushing and combing their coat will keep shedding under control and the buildup of mats and tangles at bay. Bring them to the vet regularly and keep an eye out for accidents. Because vet bills can be pricey, you must ensure that your Goldie does not suffer from any significant illnesses or injuries. Try training your own dog. Paying for dog trainers may cost you more money. If you do not want to participate in dog shows or contests, it is preferable to train your Golden yourself. This would save you a few bucks while also providing a bonding opportunity for you and your Golden. Choose quality dog supplies. It is recommended that first-time dog owners get high-quality products for their dogs. Choosing a cheaper item may end up costing you more in the long run because you may need to replace it on a regular basis. You can save money where you can, but make sure your Goldie receives the care and attention it deserves. Always remember that a healthy dog is a happy dog. A healthy Golden Retriever is not hard to maintain. With the right mindset, you could keep your pooch in tip-top shape while saving money. Keep in mind that expenses may vary based on the lifestyle you keep for your Golden. By ensuring their good health and condition as well as applying practical money-saving tips, raising a Golden Retriever is not a difficult task. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog.
We do not use Australian Shepherds in our program. We introduced Merle into our program in .We are very proud of our Merle Bernedoodles. You can see several examples of our amazing Merle Bernedoodles below. Where does the merle gene come from and how it got in the poodle gene pool? I get this question all the time. I have done a lot of study of the merle gene in the poodle gene pool and believe that it was not caused by introducing another breed into the gene pool but, in fact, it is a mutation that occurred naturally. Merle is probably the most mis-understood and hotly debated dilution gene in the poodle. Many believe it must be a recessive gene because it doesn't affect the appearance of red, apricot and red or diluted colors such as blues and silvers. In addition, it can be hard to see or not evident at all on black and brown dogs cryptic. Not only is its appearance illusive to breeders but it has confused scientists and it is still not completely understood. The merle pattern has been studied many times and the last study released in emphatically stated that merle was caused by a mutation in the gene called SILV or PMEL.The research was believed to be so solid that tests were offered to breeders to identify Merle in their dogs. However, as of March the company who owned the patent for the test, Idexx, stopped offering tests as they discovered the scientists identified the wrong gene. SILV is not responsible for merle. The gene they decided was merle SILV actually turned out to be for a form of piebaldism- not merle. One theory is that piebaldism may be issue when connected to merle- or it may be piebaldism itself that is the issue. Another theory is "The Misidentification Theory. However, it is said - rightly so - that merles have often been misidentified as other colors. Then there is the "The Cryptic Merle" theory. This theory is actually a subcategory of the Misidentification Theory. Merle is what is called a "modifier. If merle acts on a black coat, the result is blue merle. If it acts on a chocolate coat, the result is red merle. And so on. The final theory I have is that that merles have been in the breed and that mere is a "natural" occuring pattern in the breed, and that merles have often been misidentified as other colors. When I called AKC to register Chuck and asked about the color code to give him they said to give him code and This refers to a a red and white dog with black markings. This leads me to believe that when looking at the color pedigree 5 or 10 generations back you would not know if the dog was actually a merle or a parti meaning merle could be in the pedigree without proper identification. Merle can affect all coat colors. The merle forms of brown and black are usually called "red" though this is not correct; red and merle are genetically different and "blue" as patches of blue are formed throughout the coat. Merle is a dilution gene just like the blue, chocolate in a traditional color but without the color of blue DNA. Merle has its own colours and DNA; a blue merle is a dog who has blue patches on its body, red and some are chocolate or "cookies and cream". Dogs who are recessive red can still be affected by merle, but the patches are either hardly seen or, if the dog is a clear recessive red, are not visible at all. Combinations such as brindle merle exist, but are rare. In addition to altering base coat color, merle also modifies eye color and coloring on the nose and paw pads. The merle gene modifies the dark pigment in the eyes, occasionally changing dark eyes to blue, or part of the eye to be colored blue. Since merle causes random modifications, however, both dark-eyed, blue-eyed, and odd-colored eyes are possible. Color on paw pads and nose may be mottled pink and black. Color on the nose may be black, blue, or red. You can see a perfect example of a chocolate merle in our stud Chuck. Merle Bernedoodles What is a Merle Bernedoodle? What are the most common Merle patterns in Bernedoodles? How is a Merle Bernedoodle produced? Merle is a term used to describe the pattern of a dogs coat. Merle is a dilution gene, that is, it lightens whatever the coat color would otherwise have been. The lightening is not spread evenly over the coat, but leaves patches of undiluted color scattered over the dog's body. Also, the lightening seems to work primarily on the black pigment in the coat. Merle refers to the pattern in the coat and is not a color as such. The white and gray patterns that appear on a black make them appear to have a blueish cast. These are called blue merles. Merle is a color combination in dogs' coats. Although most breeds that can have merle coats also typically have white markings such as around the neck, under the belly, and so on , and often tan points typically between the white and the darker parts of the coat , these are separate colors from the merle; some dogs do appear completely merled with no white or tan markings. Merle can also alter other colors and patterns besides the usual red or black. Utah Bernedoodles. Bernedoodles are versatile, active dogs that are loving, affectionate, and highly trainable. Smaller Bernedoodles bred with Toy or Miniature Poodles might do well in apartments, while the larger Bernedoodles will be happier with a yard. With modest exercise requirements for smaller Bernedoodles, they might suit city life or apartment dwellers. Their generous, loving nature makes them ideal family pets. With a possibly hypoallergenic coat, Bernedoodles have a low shedding rate and might suit people with allergies. Despite their pleasant, happy-go-lucky nature, early socialization is always necessary to ensure they are calm and adaptable to unfamiliar situations. While a good romp in the park or nature is always appreciated, Bernedoodles can also be lap dogs and couch potatoes. They are people-oriented dogs that should not be left alone for long periods. What is A Merle Bernedoodle? For example, a patch of light gray in a merle dog might come from a solid base color of black. In addition, merle dogs tend to have blue or odd-colored eyes. Merle dogs with a single merle parent are denoted Mm, meaning they have one allele for merle and one for non-merle. If two merle Bernies mate, it results in a litter of MM puppies or double merle. Double merle puppies come with a host of health problems and have a high chance of being born blind, deaf, or both. Two merles should never be bred. The merle gene suppresses pigment cells in the iris and inner ear, and while the gene causes beautiful blue eyes, it can also cause sensory loss. In addition to altering the coat, the gene also causes blue or odd-colored eyes and pink noses and paw pads. Double merle puppies are often pure white and not the standard merle mottled pattern. While responsible breeders take great care in ensuring two merles are never bred, some patterns are subtle and can be easily mistaken for a solid color. The genetics of a merle Bernedoodle is complicated, and a breeding program has to be executed with great care to ensure a healthy litter. The merle gene can affect all coat colors, but blue and red are the two most common colors. While the Bernese Mountain Dog is often a tri-colored dog, the Poodle can range from apricot, white, black, tan, cream, bi-colored or tri-colored. The rarest variations are bi-colored black and white, merle, and solid black or white. While technically, merle is not a color but rather refers to a pattern, it is a rare gene that can affect Poodles but is not known to affect Bernese Mountain Dogs. While most noticeable on black coats, the merle gene can affect any coat color, turning black into gray and dark brown into light red. The merle color combination in the coat goes off a solid color such as brown or black, causing light blue or red patches in a mottled, speckled pattern. In addition to the typical blue and red merles, other color combinations include: Bi-colored — A combination of two colors, often black and white, apricot and white, or any other coat with two colors. Tri-colored — A coat with three colors, often black, white, and tan. Solid white or black — White coats often contain a small splash of color. A completely white Bernedoodle is extremely rare. Phantom — A phantom coat predominantly black with tan markings around the chest, legs, and muzzle. Chocolate: A chocolate coat is solid brown and might have some splashes of white around the paws, chest, and forehead. Sable — Sable, like merle, refers to a pattern rather than a color. They can contain darker colors like brown and red on the head and chest that lighten as the coat goes towards the paws. In addition, merle dog lovers often are willing to pay a pretty penny for a merle dog, further driving up the prices. Several factors can determine the price of a merle Bernedoodle. Color There are many different color combinations for Bernedoodle coats, and the price will vary depending on how many different colors are desired. Apart from merle Bernedoodle, a tri-colored Bernedoodle, parti Bernedoodle or phantom Bernedoodle will be significantly more expensive than a single or bi-colored Bernedoodle. Demand Behind the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle , the Bernedoodle is currently the third most popular Poodle crossbreed. A Bernedoodle from a reputable breeder will have gone through a series of health tests to ensure the quality of their Bernedoodle puppies. Every reputable dog breeder will conduct health checks on their adult dogs to ensure that they have healthy hips, joints, hearts, patellas, and eyes. Be wary of a lower-than-normal cost. This usually warns of puppies from backyard breeders and puppy mills. Bernedoodle Size The little Bernedoodle, medium Bernedoodle, and standard Bernedoodle are the three sizes of Bernedoodles, depending on the size of the Poodle parent. Wavy and curly coats are generally more expensive than straight coats. This is because wave and curly coats indicate that the litter takes after the Poodle parent, signifying a possible hypoallergenic coat. Are Merle Bernedoodles Rare? Yes, merle Bernedoodles are much rarer than their non-merle, or mm, counterparts. The merle gene is not too prevalent in the Poodle bloodline and is almost non-existent in the Bernese Mountain Dog breed. It lightens patches of coat on top of the original color. Are Merle Dogs Unhealthy? No, a merle dog can be as healthy as its solid-colored littermates, and live equally long, happy lives. However, a double merle dog bred from two merle parents can have many health problems. Great care must be taken to ensure two merle dogs are never produced. The merles from this litter will be similar in genetic makeup to the rest of the litter. Double merle dogs, or MM, have a vast range of health problems, including the possibility of being born deaf, blind, or both. Is Merle A Defect? No, carrying the merle gene is not a defect but rather a dominant trait that creates patches of mottling on the coat and blue or odd-colored eyes. A merle dog bred to a single merle parent will be prone to other genetic health issues prevalent in its parent breeds. However, a litter from two merle parents can have some severe defects, including the possibility of being born blind and deaf. Double merle dogs are often white and might have some splashes of markings in their coat. They have odd-colored or blue eyes, pink noses, and paw pads. They battle with fear constantly, are anxious, and cannot communicate with others around them. Startling them might cause them to snap or attack because of their lack of vision and hearing. Owners of any deaf or blind dog must take extreme precautions in dealing with the disability. How do you get a Merle Bernedoodle? First, check your local shelters. You never know; you might get lucky and find exactly what you are looking for. When looking for a breeder, please do some research online and read reviews to get a sense of what others say about them or get references from reputable sources such as veterinarians or kennel clubs. You might also check your network to see if any of your friends or acquaintances have previously dealt with a reliable breeder in your area. If feasible, visit them and observe their breeding facilities to see how clean and well-organized they are. Most responsible breeders will want to see you in person and have you sign a contract. They will have many questions for you to ensure that their puppies go to good homes and are stringent in their living arrangements and lifestyles requirements. Final Thoughts While merle Bernedoodles are incredibly rare, it is still possible to chance upon a few if you are lucky or go looking specifically for those. These loving, affectionate dogs are a hot favorite with Bernedoodle lovers, albeit at a sometimes shocking price tag with beautiful dappled patterns and light, soft colors! Thanks for reading, and all the best to you and your pooch! This rare colored Doodle is gaining in popularity due to its rare coat colors and for a good reason. Short Summary Merle Bernedoodles are not considered a distinct breed of Bernedoodles. Instead, Merle is a coat color and pattern that varies in intensity and pattern from dog to dog. The Merle color and pattern can only be seen on the black base color of a Bernedoodle and not on any white or tan markings. When looking for Merle Bernedoodle breeders, it is important to find those who have a good understanding of the Merle gene due to the health effects associated with this color. If both parents carry this gene, it can lead to the birth of Double Merle Bernedoodles who may have insufficient pigment and could potentially experience serious health problems. This gene affects the coat color and patterns of Merle Bernedoodle puppies , giving them distinctive mottled patches of various colors, including: Blue merle bernedoodle Tri merle bernedoodle Red merle bernedoodle But how does this gene give rise to such beautiful coat patterns, and where did this breed originate? So how did this gene end up in purebred Poodles to produce Merle Bernedoodles? This dilution gene is thought to have either occurred by a rare, naturally occurring mutation in the Poodle gene pool or was incorporated into one of the parental breeds through a careful breeding process involving another breed with the merle gene. One of the popular variations is the blue merle mini Bernedoodle, which has gained attention for its unique appearance. Effects on Coat Colors and Patterns The Merle gene creates a mottled merle pattern by diluting sections of the coat into lighter colors. The blue Merle tri-color Bernedoodle is the most common merle pattern observed in Bernedoodles. It features merle markings on the body while maintaining the beautiful white and tan points of the Bernese Mountain Dog. The strikingly unique coat color and patterns of merle dogs are not the only captivating feature — many of them possess blue or partially blue eyes or even have two different eye colors wall-eyed. Such an arresting combination makes the Merle Bernedoodle very alluring. Health Considerations for Merle Bernedoodles While the Merle pattern gives Merle Bernedoodle their distinctive appearance, it is essential to be aware of the potential health issues associated with a double Merle dog. Double merle Bernedoodles are produced if both parents carry the merle dilution gene, resulting in the offspring having excessive amounts of white hair and lacking pigment around their eyes and noses. Due to the lack of pigment, Double merle dogs are predisposed to the following health issues: deafness sensitivity to light skin issues However, these health issues can be prevented with proper breeding and only mating a merle dog with a non-merle dog. By providing your Merle Bernedoodle with regular physical activity, a nutritionally balanced diet, and periodic veterinary examinations, you can ensure their well-being and overall health. The Personality and Temperament of Merle Bernedoodles Merle Bernedoodles are not just visually striking, they also have fantastic temperaments. These dogs possess: Intelligence. A Merle Bernedoodle has a rare coat pattern which features mottled patches of various colors depending on whether they are a blue merle, phantom merle, tri merle or red merle. It is a genetic coat pattern that dilutes random sections of the coat to a lighter color whilst leaving patches of their original coat color remaining. It may also affects eye color and skin pigmentation on the nose and paws. Despite the captivating look of a Merle Bernedoodle, prospective Merle Bernedoodles owners need to be aware that they are often a result of poor breeding practices and they are likely to suffer from ocular and auditory defects. That is not to say that all Merle Bernedoodles are the result of poor breeding practices or that they will have these health issues but there is a higher risk than an ordinary Bernedoodle. Are Merle Bernedoodles Rare? Merle Bernedoodles are very rare. The gene is not naturally occurring in Bernese Mountain Dogs or Poodles so it has to be introduced into the lineage of one of the breeds at some point before breeding a Merle Bernedoodle. Alternatively, they cross a Merle Bernedoodle with a non-Merle Bernedoodle. Two dogs that carry the merle gene should never be bred together as many puppies in the litter will be double merles. Solid Bernedoodles fade much more often than merle Bernedoodles. If they do fade, it will occur within the first two years of their lives. Merle Bernedoodle Price Merle Bernedoodles are more expensive than other Bernedoodle coat colors as they are so rare and difficult to breed. You can read our full Bernedoodle price guide here to see compare the price of a Merle Bernedoodle to common Bernedoodle coat colors. Merle Bernedoodle via talesofbobadoodle.
It is the Scappoose post office. We had to change our address on google as people would just show up and want to buy a puppy. This is not haw we home our puppies and we don't always have puppies available. About us We have a love for this breed that runs deep. Our goal is to breed Golden Retrievers free of major genetic health Issues, as well as promoting responsible dog ownership. While maintaining the integrity of the Golden Retriever breed. We primarily breed goldens as wonderful members of your Family as well as Show dogs, Hunting dogs, service and therapy dog. We are dedicated to loving and producing Golden Retrievers with good genetic health, as well as that wonderful golden temperament. A Golden Retriever will quickly become a wonderful hunting partner and an adored member of your family. You owe it to yourselves to find the best possible Golden that you can. A Whiskey Creek Golden Retriever has been carefully bred from sound animals to bring you many years of hunting and family enjoyment and loving companionship. Bringing home a Golden Retriever is a decision that should not be made without careful consideration of the traits and habits of this wonderful breed. Golden youngsters are mouthy and need to be properly trained and raised to insure you can provide for their mental and physical health and well being. All prospective clients are welcome to come visit and meet our dogs. By Appointment only and only if I do not have puppies on the ground that are not fully vaccinated. All email or phone inquiries regarding or the occasional availability of an adult dog are welcome. I will reply to all. Theft of any content or photos from this sight without written permission will be prosecuted. All right reserved .We are passionate about these little treasures and our small breeding program. We are a busy family with 4 children ages .Our dogs are part of our family and live with us, in our home, and under foot. The Miniature Golden Retriever, also known as the Petite Golden and Mini Golden, is a Designer Breed that has been crossbred to produce a healthier dog with the happy people-loving temperament of the Golden Retriever, the small size and sweet cuddly personality of the King Charles Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel, and the intelligent temperament and low shedding coat of the Poodle. Our Miniature Golden Retrievers range in size from pounds. Occasionally we may have smaller puppies maturing at closer to 15 pounds and larger puppies maturing closer to 50 pounds. We will do our best to make an estimate of the adult size of your puppy, but ultimately we can NOT guarantee adult sizes. We breed for temperament, health, and size. Our dogs are DNA tested and annually health screened by our vet before breeding. All our puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. Start the adoption process today!!!
However, whilst French Bulldogs tend to have good temperaments, as puppies they use their mouths to learn and will bite anything in sight. In this guide I will explain how you can overcome French Bulldog puppy biting problems, despite the challenges involved. He has never been an aggressive biter, but he would nip a lot as a puppy. Unfortunately, a lot of the biting was down to me, as I would do rough play with him and almost encourage the nipping. But, as my puppy got older, those playful nips started to hurt. Please do take all my tips in, as I believe it to be the most detailed solution you will find for stopping a French Bulldog biting that you see anywhere on the Internet. But first, why do French Bulldogs bite you? Most will let you know they are scared with a little bark, letting you know to keep away. If you continue to advance and upset them, the growl can then become a snap and possible bite. But, with an older and more aggressive French Bulldog, that bite could be very painful, particularly to young children. Do French Bulldogs bite a lot? When French Bulldogs are puppies, they do tend to do a lot of biting. Why French Bulldog puppies bite? The teething phase is when you will notice your French Bulldog puppy biting the most. Some French Bulldogs will also bite a bit too enthusiastically when they are playing with you. This is a hangover from their days with their siblings where mouth play would have been used. You can stop a Frenchie puppy biting at you by encouraging them to chew things like toys instead. You need to draw the line between biting and playing. As mentioned earlier, I would play with my own puppy and he would go for my hands with his teeth. I turned this into a game, which then became an issue as I had to train him out of it as he got older. French Bulldog puppies can also bite as a way of showing their dominance over you. Whatever the reason is for your French Bulldog puppy biting, it needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. If not, you will have problems with your adult French Bulldog thinking that biting is acceptable. Also, if your French Bulldog suddenly starts biting for no obvious reason please go to the vet immediately — it could be the sign of a new illness or injury. How to stop your French Bulldog puppy from biting Here are different ways that really work if you need to know how you can stop a French Bulldog from biting as a puppy. Squeal like a puppy bite inhibition When you see puppies playing together in their litter, they will let out a tiny squealing sound when bitten by sibling. The puppy that bit will hear the squeal and then tends to back off. As French Bulldog owners we can imitate this behavior! If your French Bulldog puppy bites you and gives you a nip, make a high-pitched squeal sound. You might find your puppy seeks re-assurance and comfort, but the key is to not give it. Instead, ignore them for a few moments, for example; turn your back to them. This might sound mean but if you want your French Bulldog to stop biting it can work very well. The quicker you begin using this technique the sooner your French Bulldog will biting you and your family. All it will do is make your dog scared and could lead to more biting out of fear. I made this mistake with my own puppy, as would push him away playfully, but that just encouraged the biting more. They will want more of the play, so will bite back again. But you are training them into thinking your hands are fair game. Instead you should use chew toys for this type of play. If you can focus their attention onto a toy and not your hands, they will learn that fingers and hands are not there to be bitten. You can also see the prices by clicking the photo below. Puppies will often eat things they should not do, so you will need to hook stuff out of their mouth. You will also need to check the health of their teeth and gums. One of the best ways you can train a French Bulldog puppy to not bite your fingers in their mouth is to use a treat or snack. Let them see it, and then use your fingers to pop it into their mouth and out again. Over time, they should get comfortable letting you put fingers in their mouth without biting back. Train your French Bulldog puppy to not bite over food One of the most common times a French Bulldog puppy will bite is when food is in the equation. Puppies tend to be very overprotective of food, which they learned when in the litter as they had to fight for nutrition. Unfortunately, it will be behavior that can extend to occur over their food bowl. If your French Bulldog is showing food aggression, then you need to train the puppy to learn you are in charge and can pick their bowl up and put it back down at any time — with no aggression from the dog. What you do is put a bowl in front of your French Bulldog then quickly remove it again. Dog trainers tell you to do the loud squeal when the French Bulldog puppy bites you then quickly place your thumb in their mouth, pressing it underneath their tongue. You can then put a finger under the chin. Hold this position for 10 seconds if you can, but not hard enough to hurt the puppy. The French Bulldog will not like it, and it could mean they stop biting you and will learn for next time. Let your French Bulldog know you are in charge Older French Bulldogs that bite will often do it to try to exert dominance over their owner. They can also bite due to jealousy, or when you tell them to do something like get off your chair or bed. You need to train your French Bulldog to realize you are the pack leader and the dominant one. Alphas like us owners, should not be bitten by pack members lower down the chain. Being assertive will help, but often simply rewarding good behavior is enough to get a dog to bend to your will. Socialise your French Bulldog puppy with other dogs Puppies will learn from each other and older dogs. We often look after puppies for our friends. Our friends will often say what a positive impact they see in their young pups after spending a day in the company of our now older dog. And that can include not as much biting. The sooner they can get used to things like this, the sooner they should learn not to bite out of fear. Keep your French Bulldog on a leash when exposing them to new things and noises. Always supervise your puppy when young children are present A French Bulldog that bites a child is a massive problem. The same goes for when you have visitors of all ages come into your home. There are also specialist animal behaviourists who can help with biting and fear aggression in French Bulldogs. Something to consider though is how long your French Bulldog could be teething for. It can last up until they are 8 months of age, so biting and chewing things is to be expected during this phase. The dangers of a dog bite Adult French Bulldogs that start biting can be dangerous. Whilst they are a small breed, people can get ill from infections. For example, around half of all dog bites will infect the person with bacteria, possibly leading to illness. The result is an open, jagged wound. If the wound becomes infected, it is often severe. The No. You may need hospitalization and require intravenous antibiotics. What do so when bitten by a French Bulldog If you get bitten by a French Bulldog and it leaves a bleeding wound rather than just an abrasion, take the following steps: Press down on the bite wound. This might mean that blood comes out, but that is good as it might help bacteria to come away from the wound. Use clean water and a mild soup to clean the bite wound. Use a clean cloth to press down on the bite wound again as this will help to slow and stop any bleeding. If you have it, apply antibiotic cream to the dog bite wound and then dress it with a new or sterile bandage. If serious, contact a health professional for advice. Conclusion To conclude, some of the quickest ways you can stop a French Bulldog from biting is to make sure you use positive and negative affirmations. In other words, you praise the good, and discourage the bad. Whichever method you try to use, and can be a combination, just make sure that you are consistent when training your French Bulldog puppy to not bite. Tell your friends and family to use the same methods too if they have contact with the puppy. Ultimately, unless you a clear and obvious to your French Bulldog, the puppy will not understand that his biting behavior is a bad thing. You need to take the role of the pack leader. You might also like…. As a breed they have a great temperament. However, it can still happen, and French Bulldog puppy biting problems are one of the most challenging issues I am asked about on social media. Speaking from real-life experience, our Frenchie Claude has never bitten anybody aggressively. However, he was very nippy as a puppy, and in truth, a lot of that was my fault due to the way I would play with him. I soon learned fast that I was going to get nipped! Our next door neighbour also has a French Bulldog puppy who was constantly biting. I worked with them to try and stop the biting problem and had great success. It was particularly important as they have young kids to consider. Please read down and take everything in. I believe this is the most comprehensive guide to stopping a French Bulldog biting that you will find anywhere online. Make a drink, sit back, and I will teach you how to stop the keep biting problem, starting off with why it happens. Why French Bulldog Bite? But this can start off with something as normalised as barking. If you decide to not heed the warning, the barking can then progress to a growling and showing of the teeth. If you continue to approach and invade their space, the bite is the next natural step. However, with a more aggressive Frenchie this bite can be very painful as they have very strong jaws. For parents this will be of particular concern if a French Bulldog bites your child. Do French Bulldogs bite a lot? As puppies, yes, Frenchies can bite and nip as part of teething and play. As a general rule of thumb, they will get over this behaviour. Generally speaking though, Frenchies are a non-aggressive breed. Most of it will be down to how the owner has trained and raised the dog. Why French Bulldog puppies bite Sometimes the puppies will start to bite for fun, others will bite during the teething phase read more about teething here. Frenchies use their mouths to explore, and small nips here and there can be explained away by their age. Other will bite and act aggressive out of fear, and others will bite too enthusiastically during play. Another reason why Frenchie puppies bite can also be to try to show that they are the ones who are in charge of your relationship. If this is the case with your puppy, it must be stopped immediately as if you have a puppy that believes it is dominant, its nibbling will be just the beginning of your troubles. Whichever scenario you face, biting is a behavior that needs to be nipped no pun intended in the bud as soon as possible when the dog is younger. This will help to prevent bigger problems as the Frenchie gets older. But there is a fine line between biting and playing. Our own Frenchie Claude is a classic example. As a puppy I would play with him probably a little too enthusiastically, and he would go for my hands as a result — thankfully he grew out of it, and yours probably will too. Adult Frenchies that bite are a problem However, French Bulldogs that bite into adulthood are problematic, especially if the biting suddenly starts with no previous form. In this case, please take the dog to the vet immediately to rule out any illness or injury that could be causing the biting problems. In cases such as this, vets will often recommend a dog behaviour specialist. How to stop your French Bulldog puppy from biting If your Frenchie puppy starts to show aggressive behaviour and biting it does need to be stopped as soon as it can. Otherwise it could continue into adulthood and become a bigger problem that is behavioural rather than playful. Squeal like a puppy bite inhibition When puppies play together, they will squeal when bitten by another pup. In the litter you will see this happening, and the squeal results in the biting puppy backing away. As humans we can mimic this behaviour. This is a hugely popular method used by dog trainers as it makes your puppy believe that he hurts you every time he gives you a bite. You might find that your puppy takes this telling off to heart. When we tried it with our puppy he would get all submissive and run to my wife for reassurance. The key is to not comfort them at this point, as this could lead to more biting. By shunning the puppy momentarily, you will get the best results. It sounds harsh, but if you really do want your French Bulldog to stop biting, you need to stick firm. The sooner you start doing this, the sooner your puppy will learn that biting is not ok. It really does work very well. By doing so, you are encouraging the bad behaviour. This is one of the most important tips, and to not do so will only prolong the period you have to try to stop the bad attitude. Then place another finger under the chin. Hold this position for 10 seconds, but not too hard. Your puppy will feel uncomfortable it will train him to not keep biting you. A dog trainer gave me this tip and swears by it. It involves wearing a pair of gloves with something on it that tastes bad. My trainer recommended a bitter spray see it on Amazon. After a few bites, your Frenchie will soon learn that if it bites you, it will not taste good! If you see the puppy starting to come towards your hands or fingers, move them out the way and use a chew toy instead. By focusing on the toy instead, the puppy will learn that hands are not for biting and will associate a chew toy with biting instead. The toys we found worked best for biting and chewing were the Kong on Amazon view prices. You can also see some other recommendations in my chew toy page. Frenchie puppies love to chase feet and bite at shoes, and yes, it is fun, but curb it sooner rather than later. Puppies love biting feet, shoes, and shoelaces as part of play. Use the same preventative methods listed in points 1 and 2 to discourage feet nipping. From talking to animal behaviouralists and vets, they say that a physical punishment will only exacerbate the biting problem and create more fear and aggression in your French Bulldog. Fear is the root of so many biting problems and will only make your puppy feel scared of you and be more inclined to deliver a nasty nip. But you still need to teach your Frenchie puppy to be accepting when your hands do go near the mouth. As puppies, you will need to fish things out of their mouth, and into adulthood check their teeth and administer medicines. You need to train them to not bite your hands when your fingers need to go into the mouth area. Do this by giving them a small treat and then quickly taking it out of their mouth. Train your Frenchie puppy to not bite over food Another flashpoint will be food. Puppies are very protective of their food bowl and will wolf it down in seconds to stop anybody else from eating it. But this behaviour that was learned from a young age, will also result in biting problems around their food dish. Food aggression is a problem even with the most well-behaved Frenchie so your aim here is to train the puppy that you can take food away from it with no aggressive response. Keep repeating the lesson until your French Bulldog puppy learns that you, the master, have control over food and can give or take it away at will. If you have kids, then also get them to practice this as the dog should never have dominance over any member of your household. If you can stop your French Bulldog puppy biting over food, then your almost there with having a perfectly well adjusted and non-aggressive pet. However, you might still experience it in other scenarios such as them being jealous of another pet, child, or visitor. It can also occur when you try to get your dog to get down off a couch or bed to make way for you. This is there way of exerting dominance over you so nip it in the bud by reinforcing good behaviour. Socialise your puppy with other dogs Make sure that your puppy has opportunities to play with other dogs. Puppies learn from each other and particularly older dogs. You can help stop a French bulldog puppy biting by wearing them out and learning from adult dogs. Not only do they learn from each other, but they will also wear each other out. Expose your puppy to loud noises and fearful situations Now obviously I am not suggesting that you go out of your way to scare your young dog, but it is important to expose them to situations that could spark fear, aggression,and biting. Think of things such as loud noises from traffic passing by, children shouting, or noisy public environments. The sooner you can get your Frenchie trained to be calm in these situations, the more chance you stand of them not reacting badly and reacting with a fearful or aggressive bite. Always supervise young children with a puppy A French Bulldog that bites a child is a hugely serious issue. Supervise your dog at all times when around young children to avoid bites and aggression. Whilst French Bulldogs are great with children , you should never leave them alone. When to seek professional help If even after using all these training methods, you still have a French Bulldog that bites, then please talk to your vet immediately. An expert will be able to tell you whether the mouthing of your puppy is normal behaviour or something that requires a treatment plan. There are also specialist animal behaviourists who can help with biting and fear aggression in French Bulldogs. The dangers of a dog bite Adult dogs that bite can be serious problem. People die every year from bites, and more frequently can develop serious infections when a wound goes septic. The result is an open, jagged wound. If the wound becomes infected, it is often severe. The No. You may need hospitalization and require intravenous antibiotics. Compress the wound gently by pressing on it. This will squeeze some blood out which can help to flush out as much of the bacteria as possible. Clean the bite wound with clean water and a mild soap. Press a clean cloth onto the bite to slow the bleeding down. Apply antibiotic cream to the bite wound. Dress the bite wound with a sterile bandage. Consult with a medical professional as soon as you can. Conclusion The general rule to stopping a French Bulldog from biting is to always encourage acceptable behavior and to discourage unacceptable behavior. This rule is fundamental in the training of any dog. Use chew toys and games and not your hands. This means that you or any other person who comes into contact with your puppy must keep in mind the strategy chosen each time your puppy begins to chew. If you have visitors and other family members, communicate with them to adopt the same strategy as you. The bottom line is this; if you do not communicate clearly with your French Bulldog, he will not understand that what he is doing is not good. Do not just expect the puppy to know it for himself. You need to take the role of the pack leader. You might also be interested in: If you enjoyed this guide on how to stop your French Bulldog puppy biting, you might also like these related posts:. Why Is My French bulldog Biting? This can be possible that your French bulldog never bites, but you have to train them from the day you get them home. Biting behavior can also be seen in French Bulldogs. I also had achieved success in making a French bulldog not to bite who was known for his biting behavior. Here I have briefly discussed the French bulldog biting behavior, the reasons, tips, and preventions to eliminate this unwanted behavior. I hope that this will help you make your dog a good and happy pet for you so you both can live happily together. Like all other dogs, aggression and fear in this breed are normal. You can take the aggression of your dog as normal as his barking. In this way, the French bulldog is actually reminding you to keep your own distance. If your dog is barking at you, it means he wants you to stay away for a moment. If still, you are invading his space, then naturally, the next step taken by your French bulldog will be biting. Mostly, that kind of biting will be like a bit of nip, but it can be hard. Because that French bulldog got strong jaws, so if you have kids in your house, be concerned. Do French Bulldogs bite a lot? But with time, they will get over this behavior. Generally, French Bulldogs are not bred as an aggressive breed of dog; most of them show the behaviors that are trained by their owners. Why do French Bulldog puppies bite? French Bulldog puppies bite for several reasons, like in the teething phase, in aggressiveness, just for fun, or enthusiastically during play. If this is the reason, then immediately solve this issue because if now he is just nipping to show his dominance, he is going to create big problems for you in the future. But if he grows up with biting behavior, it is really a thing you have to worry about. Although there is a fine and clear line between playing and biting, you have to overcome this issue. Little puppies will bite your hand while playing with you, but they can be trained not to repeat that act with training. Adult Frenchies Bite is a Problem Once your French bulldog grows up, never allow him to bite you even if he is playing because such Frenchie can be problematic. If your French bulldog who has no record of biting suddenly starts biting, then immediately contact a vet to rule out any injury or illness that is causing your canine friend to bite. Simply provide him with chew toys made up of rubber and silicone. In many chew toys, there is a pin-like structure on their exterior that massages the gums of your canine friend. Some toys that work best preventing the French bulldog biting are Suction Frenchie Tugtoy and Teeth cleaning toy. Then use a bitter spray on them. It will keep your dog away from those items and make your dog understand what is prohibited from being chewed. If your dog is not getting over their behavior of biting your hand, you have to wear gloves containing some bad-tasting substance like bitter spray. The bad taste will make your French bulldog stay away from your hands. Never allow your dog to use your feet as a chewing toy. You have to understand that when your dog is anxious, he can show unwanted behaviors like destructive chewing and biting. French bulldogs are more likely to get separation anxiety; they handle such situations easily by training them from childhood. For this purpose, leave them alone for some time, make them busy playing with toys alone. After some practices, increase the time of leaving them alone. This will help them control their anxiety if they get alone in any situation. Although chewing toys are helpful in making your dog not bite. You can also use interactive French bulldog toys that will not only seek his attention but also boost his intelligence. Conclusion You should also know that French bulldog puppies can be aggressive and nippy. Which is why they need to be socialized early. He can advise some tips and tricks for your dog. Technique No. It is important to understand why they result into biting so that you can better train them to control their urge. This is why owners should just control what their Frenchie chews on rather than completely preventing them from biting or chewing. It is in the Frenchie puppies nature to bite or chew as they also try to protect themselves. Frenchies also bite as a way to defend themselves against people or things that they think put them in danger. Biting As A Form Of Play French bulldog puppies are naturally playful and one way to show their playfulness is through biting. It is a form of socialization and a bit of rough play. A Frenchie puppy learns to control the intensity of its bite when it plays with other puppies. When it bites too hard and causes pain on another Frenchie, the other puppy will cry loudly to let the Frenchie know. This is a natural way on how Frenchies learn to control their bite. Some may consider them as just a phase that they can outgrow as they mature into adults. Biting usually occurs when Frenchies are puppies because they are still in their teething stage. Like babies who like to chew on different things while they are teething, Frenchie puppies also like to bite and chew on things while they are teething. The process of chewing relieves their gums of the discomfort that they may be feeling because of their erupting teeth. Giving them items that they can chew will help them feel more comfortable as they pass through this stage of their lives. After teething, it is possible for Frenchies to lessen their frequency in biting or chewing. You should establish that you have authority over your Frenchie so that it follows you. With whatever you are training your puppy for, you should be consistent. Make sure the rules are always followed and no exceptions so that your Frenchie learns faster. By yelping out loud and startling your Frenchie puppy every time they bite you, your cute Frenchie will learn that biting is hurtful to you and should not be done. Frenchies also bite as a form of defense. When they feel that they are in danger because of your violence, they are more likely to be aggressive and react with violence too. It helps them with the discomfort that they feel in their gums. To prevent your Frenchie from biting you, you can provide them with alternative chew toys or chew items instead. Giving them iced treats or rags soaked in cold water will help numb their gums and make them feel more comfortable. It is possible that your Frenchie is suffering from anxiety and using biting as an outlet. Finding a way to overcome their anxiety will eventually lead them to stop biting. Our boutique About Us The exclusive destination for all your luxury accessory needs. Inspired by French Bulldogs, made for all pups.
standard poodle puppies sc - Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We are a small, hobby breeder that raises highly socialized, health tested, in-home quality puppies. We are a retired couple and live on a beautiful hobby farm in Pennsylvania near Pittsburgh. We are not a puppy mill, and average 4 litters a year. Our daughter lives in Silver Spring, MD and we visit often. We can usually hand-deliver to your area, which makes it convenient for our families. Our daughter is a a breeder too, so occasionally has her own litters right in your back yard. We often sell to Maryland and DC buyers, so we make it easy and convenient for you because we know the process. We've become a trusted breeder for your area. We only offer our Golden puppies for sale to homes where we can screen the buyers ahead of time and make sure it's a great forever match. We usually take deposits ahead of time on our beautiful puppies and form a relationship with great relationship with you. There's always a level of trust formed between breeder and families, and we do our best to gain and maintain your trust throughout the process. It is also good for us to get to know our puppy families. It ensures that the puppies we care so carefully for are placed very responsibly into homes. English Cream Puppy Process What is our deposit? We lock your price in for your golden retriever puppy when you place your deposit, so if the price goes up, yours does not. We take deposits via email invoice with cards, so it is convenient for you. We have a real "business" so we do things professionally. How do you pick your puppy? We temperament test our puppies and observe them since birth. We are professionals at matching puppies with families lifestyles, but the choice is ultimately yours, which puppy you get. Our Golden Retriever puppy pick-outs are at around 6 weeks. We allow you to choose out of a group of puppies depending on your pick spot. Our out-of-state buyers usually use Facetime or Facebook to pick their puppies out with live video. You'll see weekly videos and pictures of the puppies as they grow, so you it will be an informed decision for you to choose when it's your turn. We will share with you their temperaments, sizes and builds, so you get a great match. You are also welcome to visit the farm and pick your puppy out in person. Most of our buyers reserved to visit once when they pick their puppy up at 8 weeks. Life Companions We know that your puppy will be your family member for life. The greatest part of our job is the magical moments that you first get to hold your English Golden Retriever puppy. It often brings tears to everyone's eyes. If you are interested in one of our beautiful puppies, please fill out our form on our home page or available puppies page at no obligation. We will be in touch with you within a few days and will have your preferences saved. We are diligent to follow up with every inquiry. We look forward to hearing from you. We had professional careers until we retired, putting all of our extra time and money into our hobby farm. We have a horse barn with our beautiful work horses and several retired English riding horses. It is a peaceful yet adventurous place for our beloved English Golden Retrievers. They get to explore the top part of our acre farm with us every day. Message sent. All rights reserved. We are a northern California breeder near Sacramento that prides itself on choosing our breeding dogs for top health, temperament, and beauty that conforms to the breed standard. Our dogs are selected from champion lines with health clearances. We will only breed dogs that pass all of these tests, so we can continue reaching to improve the breed through imposing high standards for our dogs. We breed dogs from these lines to continue a heritage of excellence in the breed. This standard is different from the AKC standard for golden retrievers, but both are accepted and licensed. The English type should have a blockier and fuller head, shorter muzzle, lower ear set, rounder eyes, stouter body structure, as well as a lighter color than the American type see comparison figure below. As an adult, it has been a pleasure to now show and selectively breed these beautiful English Golden Retrievers. Raising our English Golden Retrievers is a family endeavor that includes everyone from the youngest to the oldest. It is wonderful to make family memories with our dogs and children together. Our English Goldens are first and foremost pets who live and play among our family. Our children are involved from showing our dogs to whelping the puppies. Our puppies go home to their new families very loved and well socialized. In Northern California, we are located in Newcastle which is at the base of the Sierra Mountain foothills; close to Sacramento, and about miles from San Francisco or about miles from San Jose other cities near us are Roseville, Loomis, Folsom, Orangevale, Auburn, Lake Tahoe about an hour , and Reno about 2 hours. We can deliver our puppies to you if you are out of state, and personally travel with the puppy to bring your puppy to you. We cordially invite you to visit us and meet our beloved puppies and amazing dogs. We're located in the California Gold County just 25 miles east of Sacramento. Surrounded by golden foothills, we offer the perfect place to meet and enjoy the dogs. Expect to be greeted with wagging tails and wet noses during your visit, as our dogs are always excited to meet new people. Please let us know when you would like to visit by booking an appointment. The care and love you, Heather, and all at Classic Heritage devote to these pups is remarkable. The efforts taken to ensure pups are matched with their new happy forever home are excellent. Everyone I met was equally professional, educated, loving, kind, and a lot of fun. All of the dogs are beautiful and happy.We have had the best experience and have the most loving pup so anything we can do to help Classic Heritage we would. We have recommended you to everyone who has asked. Life Span Did You Know? The English Cream Golden Retriever is not a separate dog breed from the Golden Retriever ; it is simply a rarer coat color variation. These Golden Retrievers tend to have light white or cream-colored coats instead of honey, golden-brown, or reddish coats. As they are still standard Golden Retrievers, they are recognized by the AKC and other canine organizations and can be registered. An English Cream Golden Retriever has all the same traits as any other Golden Retriever; they are one of the most popular dog breeds and tend to be open, friendly, and make great family pets. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. As long as they are socialized and trained, Goldens tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are even known for being open and friendly with strangers. As one of the kid-friendly dog breeds , Golden Retrievers love attention. These dogs tend to be energetic, full of personality, and are devoted to their families. They also tend to be excitable, which means they can be prone to barking. Training your dog to stop barking early on can help curb this habit and help prevent it from becoming a nuisance. Due to their friendly, gentle nature and intelligence, Goldens can often be found working as service, therapy, or search and rescue dogs. English Cream Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. Their high energy and exuberance make them better suited for homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living, but you will need to dedicate a lot of time every day to ensure they get enough attention, mental stimulation, and exercise. Goldens fare well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they bond so closely with their families and are one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Some potential health concerns to be aware of in an English Cream Golden Retriever can include canine cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Good breeding practices reduce the risk of these health issues and make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. The national breed club recommends hip and elbow evaluations, an NCL DNA test, an ophthalmologist evaluation, and a cardiac exam at a minimum. English Cream Golden Retrievers are intelligent and eager to please. This makes them highly trainable dogs that are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Not only are they one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners , but they also tend to excel at obedience competitions and other dog sports. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered basic commands , move on to other activities or more advanced commands. Anything you learn will help and will only strengthen the bond you are building with your puppy. Plus, there are several other benefits of puppy training classes including socialization. English Cream Goldens may have a lighter-colored coat, but they still have the classic longer Golden Retriever coat that will shed a big year-round and heavier as the seasons change. You will want to bathe them as needed and get your Golden professionally groomed a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Trimming nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. Daily tooth brushing is ideal to keep tartar buildup at bay. This, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Golden Retrievers are known for being high-energy dogs. Like Labrador Retrievers , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They do tend to calm down a little as they grow into adulthood, but will still have a lot of energy. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep this dog happy and healthy. Goldens tend to be athletic and versatile dogs. So, once they are done growing and the vet has cleared them for higher-impact activities, you can take them running with you, play frisbee, go hiking, train for dog sports, and more. As one of the most active dog breeds , you will likely run out of energy before they do and they will likely be up for even more activity if you are. An English Cream Golden Retriever generally lives for years on average. Golden Retrievers are one of the dog breeds of famous dogs.
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standard poodle puppies sc - Country Life June 21, This picture could only be improved if the puppies were using their paws to cover ears, eyes and mouth respectively.But, well, you can't have everything. Credit: Alamy If you're after a labrador — aka 'the world's favourite dog' — you'll need to take some expert advice. It is one of the most versatile breeds, capable of working in search and rescue, as a guide dog, in medical detection, as a sniffer or assistance dog and in the theatre of war. Labrador tips from the experts Go to a specialist breeder, so that you can see the different generations of a breeding line. Make temperament, not sex, your overriding factor when choosing. As soon as your puppy wakes up, take it outside. When introducing the labrador to a lead, walk it with an older dog. A yellow Labrador puppy. Possible labrador problems to look out for Canine hip dysplasia is a genetic disease, causing the abnormal development of the hip socket, resulting in pain and lameness. Listen for a popping sound when the dog walks, and look for reluctance to use stairs, as well as sensitivity when you touch the hindquarters. Labradors can also be prone to retinal dysplasia, an inherited condition that affects labradors used for field work, and results in their developing blind spots. Generally, the dog can work around this by changing head position. Reputable breeders will be able to show certification that the dog has no eye conditions, which you should ask to see when buying a dog. Head and skull: Skull broad with defined stop; clean-cut without fleshy cheeks. Jaws of medium length, powerful not snippy. Nose wide, nostrils well developed. Eyes: Medium size, expressing intelligence; brown or hazel. Ears: Not large or heavy, hanging close to head and set rather far back. Mouth: Jaws and teeth strong with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite. Coat: Distinctive feature, short dense without wave or feathering, giving fairly hard feel to the touch; weather-resistant undercoat. No need to scroll down: we can confirm that the Golden Retriever is indeed on the list below. Credit: Alamy Which is the more popular spaniel, the springer or the cocker? Shooting Times's David Tomlinson weighs up the pros and Close up of dog. Credit: Getty Images With a silken coat, affectionate nature and boundless enthusiasm for life, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel lives up to its Credit: Getty As the dog world prepares for Crufts , we take a look at the breed of dog which has been A sprocker spaniel Picture: Alamy Whether you own labradors, springers, cockers or a mix of all three, debate over which gundog is best has raged Related. Your breeder should be concerned with breeding healthy dogs, rather than focused primarily on selling them. Visit a potential breeder and observe his interactions with his dogs; they should be friendly and relaxed. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Look for breeders who are registered with national organizations such as the American Kennel Club [3] X Research source or with breed-specific organizations such as the National Labrador Retriever Club. Ask the breeder why these two particular dogs were bred. If they have had other litters, ask for references from people who bought those puppies. If you want a gun dog, don't choose a breeder who primarily raises cuddly pets or award-winning show dogs. These breeders will be able to assess puppies more accurately for the qualities you're seeking. Look for quantifiable measures. For example, select breeders with litters from parents who have hunt test or field trial scores if you want a puppy who will grow into a good hunting dog. These are organizations that work to find homes for Labradors who need a good home. While these organizations often have many adult and even senior dogs who need homes, they also place puppies. Charities or non-profits may offer Labrador puppies for auction as a means of raising funds. Because these auctions are often conducted without appropriate legal oversight and because they encourage rash decisions about pet ownership, they are opposed by groups such as the National Labrador Retriever Club. I am new to this forum so should introduce myself. As you can imagine its left an uneasy quietness to the house so we are looking for her successor In our home its my wife, myself and our 8 yr old daughter and 6 yr old son. He says he breeds only for good disposition only as any good breeder should and our quick meeting with parents it looked to be accurate. The dad was in a large outdoor kennel and looked to be very friendly. She did a quick snarl when we first got near which I have to give a pass as i'm sure she's just being protective, right? After the breeder told her its OK she calmed right down. Anyways, there are 4 females that we get first pick of when we go back. Of course training and exercise play a huge role in this so that we'll have covered. Does it still hold true that when you are looking at the liter to see which ones come to you and let you hold them on their back and settle after a short period to determine good nature rather than overly squirmy? Such a big decision i just wanted to make sure we do this right. We were so spoiled with our last pup its hard to compare! Selecting Your Labrador Retriever Puppy Selecting your puppy Try to restrain your emotions when you are selecting our pup. Remember that the breeder has been with the pup from day 1 to selection day at 5 weeks. At Pawlinglabs, we will ask you to forward a list of the characteristics that your are hoping for, prior to selection. When you come to select, we will ask you to observe the litter before entering and handling the pups. Labrador pups are very cute and cuddly, but when it comes time to select the right one for you there is plenty to consider. Carefully observe Labrador Retriever puppies before buying them, ensuring that the pup you select looks healthy and is to breed standard. There are some basic points to note about Labrador Retriever standards. The coat of a Labrador is their most distinctive feature. Labs have two coats, the water resistant undercoat which is unseen, and the top coat which is dense, straight and short. There is might be a slight wave in their coat, however the coat should feel rough to the touch. Labrador puppies come in three different coat colors: yellow light cream to red fox , chocolate liver and black. There must not be any other colours in the coat. Labs have a broad skull and a well defined stop. Their head is quite large but the features on the head, such as the ears, look proportioned. The ears of a Labrador should be set far back from the face. The inside skin of the ears should be a pale pink and soft without any scabs or discoloration. There shouldn't be any odour coming from them. The eyes of a Lab pup are round, either deep brown or hazel with black rims. The eyes should be friendly and express intelligence. The Labrador Retriever has a wide black and well developed nose with distinguished nostrils. The nose should be clean and without discharge. Be aware that a wet nose is not an indication that the Lab is healthy, nor does a dry nose indicate he is unwell. The teeth should be set square to the jaws with the top teeth slightly overlapping the bottom. Labrador puppies have fewer teeth than adults and they will lose their baby teeth as their adult teeth grow in. Labs have a well developed and strong chest. It has good depth and width. Their barreled ribs are well sprung and their back is level. Their loins are wide and strong. The skin of a Lab should be without scabs or bumps. It is normal for Labrador puppies to have extra skin at the back of their neck; this is how their mother picks them up. The skin color of a lab is usually pale pink but it can also be brown or even spotted. The tail of a Labrador is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip. The tail is a moderate length and has no feathering. It is as smooth like the rest of the coat with a rounded appearance. The tails is even with the back or slightly upwards. It should never be carried over the back or hang down. Labrador have long and sloping shoulders that connect to the strong front legs. The hind legs are developed well and have a turned stifle. Both the front and hind legs should be straight. The feet of Labrador pups are compact and perfectly round. Their toes are arched and pads well developed. Feet should be straight, not turned inwards or outwards. The gait of a Labrador should be carefree. Labs take long strides and walk straight. Observe your puppies as he walk. Make sure it is not favoring any leg or paw. This can be a sign of a current or future health issue. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. That sweet ball of fluff who will be your walking buddy, later snuggling up on the couch together. After all, your pup will probably be with you for a dozen years or more. So he has to be a great fit. It should never be a hasty decision. But it should also be FUN! That brings us to the question: how to choose the perfect puppy? Read on! You picture fun romps in the field, playing frisbee, and showing little Max off to all of your friends. But before getting a puppy, there are so many practical things to review in deciding whether to even get a puppy. My first dog as an adult was a shih tzu named Cuddles. My husband and I had discussed getting a dog for a while. We both worked and knew that the pup would take up a lot of time. Not to mention the expenses associated with a dog. But I saw the little gold and white week-old ball of fluff and was smitten. Luckily, I had a family member who could take her out to potty and exercise her during the day. In choosing your new pup, the following considerations are important. Are You Active or a Couch Potato? Can You Afford a Puppy? A puppy is more than the initial purchase. That can be a drop in the bucket compared with the lifetime costs of owning a dog. There are bills for: food and treats; chews; vets; crates ; beds; collars, harnesses, and leashes; training classes; dog walkers; dog daycare; pet insurance; enzymatic cleaners ; grooming—and more. These can really add up. You may decide not to get pet health insurance and not need pet walkers or doggie daycare, but expenses can really add up over the years. Do You Have Children? Children and pets can be a great match. You want to make sure that you choose the right canine. A toy breed may not be the right choice for a toddler. A tiny dog may inadvertently be injured by such a young child. We raised puppies for years before we had kids so we had a good idea of expectations for our puppy. If you have very young kids a rambunctious Lab may not be the right choice. Do You Have Other Pets? You need to take into consideration any other pets you have. If you have a senior dog, for example, a young puppy may not be a great choice. Are you gone too many hours to take care of a puppy? A friend of mine who works hour days decided not to get a puppy. The pup would have been alone too long. A puppy needs attention and potty breaks. Of course we need to work. You may be able to have someone come in and exercise, feed, and potty the pup. And give him attention during the day. As I discussed, you may need help with the new puppy. If you have reliable relatives or friends who can regularly help out, it can make getting a puppy much more realistic. Or you can hire pet sitters or walkers to help out. If you live in small quarters, a large, rambunctious breed may not be best. As young puppies, goldens can be wild, even inside. Of course, with a sufficient amount of mental stimulation and physical exercise, you can make it work. After Dalmations came out, everyone wanted one. Dalmations are high-drive, independent dogs. I was called to work with a family who got a Dalmation puppy that was wrecking their house. The minute walk the pup was getting was just a warm-up for the dog. We set up an exercise and training program for the puppy and the family was able to keep him. Do your research. The American Kennel Club lists purebred dogs and their needs and health profiles. Before choosing a certain breed, consider the following. Large or Small? You should have an idea what size dog you want. Conversely, if you want a frisbee or jogging partner, a chihuahua would be a bad choice. Why Do You Want a Dog? This may seem like a silly question. Most people want a dog for companionship. But you may have additional things in mind. You may want a jogging partner. Or a dog to do therapy work with. Or to show in obedience. Grooming Needs Would you love spending time every day brushing and combing a dog? Exercise Needs As you know, some breeds need a lot of exercise. We also do obedience training and she plays with puzzle toys. Lifespan Of course we want our pups to live forever. But some breeds generally live longer than others. Generally, larger—especially giant breeds—have shorter lives than their smaller counterparts. Friendliness or Independence Of course within any breed and litter you can have a wide array of personalities. But there are certain breed characteristics that can help guide your choice of which breed you want. I have dogs at both ends of the spectrum. My golden retriever Riley loves everyone and would do great in any setting. But my Lhasa apso Ralphie—true to breed—is more discriminating when making friends. So Riley would be great with well-behaved children and would love to be hugged by them. Health Problems Any dog can have unforeseeable health problems. But some breeds are likely to have more health problems than others. For example, bulldogs, pekingese, and pugs are among the breeds that are more likely to have breathing problems and overheat. Breed Types Of course there are many breeds and mixes to choose from. If you get your dog from a breeder, consider what lines your puppy comes from. If from working lines, the dog will likely be more intense than if from show lines. All of the below classes of dogs can make great companions in the right setting. Herding dogs were bred to herd, of course. Popular examples are border collies, Australian shepherds, and Shetland sheepdogs. Generally, they require more exercise than some breeds like toy breeds. And they may become destructive if left to their own devices. Also, some bark excessively and may not be good in an apartment setting. Sporting dogs were bred to hunt. They have a lot of energy and need regular, invigorating exercise. Popular examples are golden retrievers, labrador retrievers, and cocker spaniels. Just like other working-type dogs, hounds have almost limitless energy. So attention to you may be an issue. Also, some bay when excited. Popular examples are beagles, dachshunds, and greyhounds. Dogs from the working group are alert, intelligent, strong, and bred to work with people to perform various tasks. Some were bred to guard property, to pull sleds, or to perform water rescue. Some popular examples are Doberman pinschers, huskies, and rottweilers. They require not only exercise and precise training so that their natural instincts are kept in check. Terriers are feisty and energetic and vary greatly in size. They were bred to hunt and kill vermin, So a squirrel they see on their walk will be very alluring to them—and, without training, they may almost pull you off your feet trying to get to it. Some popular examples are Parson Russell terriers, Staffordshire terriers, or West Highland whirte terriers. Pit bulls which is a generic name for many types of terriers are also in this group. Toy breeds were generally bred as amiable companions. They may make great lap dogs and have big personalities despite their small stature. Shih tzus, Maltese, Yorkshire terriers, and chihuahuas are some very popular examples. Nonsporting group dogs are a catch-all group with various sizes and personalities. Some popular examples are bulldogs, French bulldogs, bichon frise. There are so many options. You may want a certain breed. So a breeder or rescue of that breed should meet your needs. Just make sure that the breeder is a good one. Good breeders do so to improve their breed. Bad ones care only about making money. They do any necessary health certifications. They put a lot of time into their litters socializing them to new experiences and people. Good breeders are invested in their litters and will help you choose the right puppy for you. They stand behind their dogs for life and will readily answer your questions and take the dog back if you need to give him up. You can get referrals to such breeders through breed clubs, dog clubs, and resources such as the American Kennel Club. A reputable, good breeder also will have questions for you regarding your family, work, home, activity level, and reason why you want a dog or their breed. The pups will also have been checked by a veterinarian and been given the appropriate vaccinations for their age. There are also breed rescues that rehome dogs of their chosen breed. However, they rarely have puppies. Shelters and rescue groups can also be great places to get a puppy. Many use foster homes, where a puppy or litter of puppies are located. Foster parents get to know the puppies and can help determine whether any particular puppy is a good fit for you. Many rescue groups try to place a puppy in the best home possible. When I adopted my Aussie mix puppy Mille, the rescue group would adopt her out only to people who had experience with herding breeds. Many shelters are first come-first served. In order to place as many dogs as possible, they will adopt out a puppy to the first person who wants him—barring any obvious reason not to. How to Choose a Puppy from a Litter There are many tests that can be given to determine whether a puppy is a good fit. This assumes you have a litter to choose from. There is a range of temperaments and personalities in each litter, No puppy may perfectly meet every test below. But look at the big picture. So, in addition to your own observations, you can bring a friend along to have another opinion about the litter. Or you could hire a trainer to help you choose. Overall, as a companion, a middle-of-the-road dog usually works out best. Also, a reputable breeder or good rescue group or shelter who knows the puppy can help guide you in making your decision. See the Mother and Littermates If you can, watch the puppy and his littermates and mother interact. The puppy you choose should be able to take a proper correction and back off then re-engage. The breeder should have the mother available. Check Out the Puppy The puppy should look healthy and alert, not lethargic. Inspect his coat and skin. He should be well-fed with a little fat around his rib cage. The pup should run and walk normally, without a limp. A puppy should engage with people and be curious, not slink away or cower. A scared puppy will probably be more difficult to socialize and train. Will he follow you if you walk away? Clap your hands and make a kiss sound. Will he come towards you or run for the hills? Hold Puppy on His Back Hold him on his back for about 30 seconds. Ideally, he should briefly struggle and relax. When I had two sheltie puppies to choose from and one fought constantly when held and the other struggled briefly, then settled, I chose the latter. I had already gotten another dog from this great breeder. I wanted a dog who was a companion but who I also wanted to show in competitive obedience. My choice turned out to be the right one. Duffy was a great dog to live with and became a nationally-ranked obedience dog. He also did agility for fun and was a therapy dog who visited a hospital on a weekly basis. Hold the puppy and touch and gently open his mouth. Look in and gently rub his ears. .Gently touch each paw, even putting slight pressure on them. The puppy should be comfortable with these activities. He may slightly struggle. But a puppy who really fights against such touching, even to the point of mouthing or growling may turn out to be difficult to groom, handle, and pet. Pet the dog calmly from head to toe. He should enjoy it and relax. Pick the Puppies Up If you hold each puppy around the middle, ideally he would be relaxed and not struggle. Also, cradle the puppy up against you. Ideally, he should relax and like the attention. He may startle at first but should rebound and even go and check out what made the noise. Social Dominance Fall to the ground at least a few feet away from the puppy. He should want to come over and see what happened. Even if you like the look of a certain puppy, he may not be the right puppy for you. Consider the above factors as well as the following when choosing a puppy. The dogs live in rabbit-type hutches or dark barns. They receive no proper socialization, vet care, or human contact. There are also small back-yard breeders which, essentially, are puppy mills on a smaller scale. The mothers are bred at each heat and have horrible lives. Dogs sold in pet shops and through the internet usually come from them. Of course, do your own research because no one will admit they are a puppy mill. But two puppies may bond too much with each other. And to train, socialize, and exercise each puppy requires a lot of time, energy, and money. The dogs in shows have been highly trained and specially selected for their jobs. Then pick a great breeder, rescue, or shelter. Final Thoughts Getting a new puppy is such an exciting time! Do you have a puppy? How did you decide to choose him? Please let us know in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. I had wanted a female red lab, none were available. A trainer near me was getting a second dog from a renowned breeder in Ireland and she asked if he had a puppy for diabetic service dog work. Both her pup and my pup flew over from Ireland together. A pup with a desire to work, a willingness to please, and a calm demeaner. I received a cute ball of fluff, a male yellow lab pup with red ears and red highlights. A good breeder is able to match you with a dog that will meet your needs, give them all the information you can. I never met the breeder, but my pup arrived at 10 weeks old already already on his way to being well socialized, exposed to sounds, not nervous, liked the vacuum, fireworks are not a problem, loves the motorcycle sounds, handled all sorts of traffic noise at 3 months. We started his public training at 3 months old and he handled it like a champ. I had to buy a motorcycle with a sidecar as he always wanted to go out when the bikes were started up, so at 9 months he was in the sidecar with Rex Specs goggles. Did I mention he loves to travel and meet me people, when his tail wags which is all the time his whole body wags. Tweet on Twitter Buying your first dog can be a life changing decision. Choosing the right dog will help to ensure that your life changes in a good way. There are some wise precautions you might like to consider before viewing any litter of Labrador puppies. Or choosing which one to bring home with you. Buying a Puppy from a Friend It is often tempting to buy a puppy in an opportunistic moment of enthusiasm. Perhaps because you happen to hear of a friend who has a litter that will be ready to go to their new homes soon. Or a neighbour who has a gorgeous litter of puppies that you fall in love with when you pop over to admire. But the puppy that lives just around the corner, and the puppy that is going to bring you years of pleasure, may be two very different things. It is a really good idea to put your sensible hat on at times like these, and to approach the whole business of selecting your puppy in business-like way. The first decision to make is to choose what type of Labrador you wish to end up with. Which characteristics are most important to you, and will help him to fit into your family best. Choosing a Working or Show dog? Those bred for work, and those bred for the show ring. The working bred dog is generally very responsive and easy to train. But he may also fall short of what you expect in appearance. If you are hoping to get involved in gundog fieldwork, or agility at some point it is important to purchase a field or working bred labrador. Of course choosing a dog is so much more than just weighing up the pros and cons. There are now a number of hereditary diseases in labradors that can be tested for. Routine testing under these schemes is gradually growing in popularity for a number of conditions. These include hip dysplasia, elbow displasia, and a number of inherited eye diseases. However, there are still many puppies available for sale in the UK whose parents have not been tested, or that have been tested and fall below the necessary standard for breeding. Amazingly, in the UK, the Kennel Club will still register puppies from parents that have poor hip scores. Hopefully this will change in the future. You will need to read up on these to make sure you understand what you are looking for. Finding the right dog breeder Knowing where to look for a breeder is not easy. Labrador breeders come in all shapes and forms. At their best breeders are dedicated experts on their breed, who produce a few litters each year of top quality puppies for their own kennels show or field and sell any surplus to quality pet homes. At their worst, breeders are simply puppy farmers who churn out litter after litter with no thought to the health and welfare of either the puppies or their mother. Telling the difference is not always straightforward. In some cases these may be excellent puppies, in other cases they will not. The key to a good litter is a quality female dog with excellent health clearances, put to a compatible quality dog with equally excellent health clearances, and given quality care throughout pregnancy and beyond. The female dog must have a purpose beyond producing puppies, whether that is as show dog, working dog or highly treasured family pet. On the whole, this is more likely to be achieved by an experienced breeder. The Kennel Club in the UK run an accredited breeders scheme, and members agree to meet certain minimum standards. However, there are many excellent breeders who are not members of this scheme so do not dismiss a breeder on these grounds alone. The scheme is not perfect yet, and its standards are not necessarily enforced, as the KC prefers a voluntary approach. If you are inexperienced it is very important that you get some help in finding a breeder. Choosing one from a newspaper advert or from the internet when you know nothing of the source can be a risky decision. If you want to buy a pup from top working parents, then you may find the pups are all spoken for very quickly, long before they are eight weeks old. It can be disheartening to phone advert after advert only to find all the pups are gone. It pays to plan ahead. If you do some research, locate a really nice female dog, and book one of her pups before they are born, you may find the whole process a lot smoother. You may also be able to enjoy visiting and photographing the puppies whilst they are growing. Check the ancestry of the dog If you are buying a Labrador for gundog work, or agility, make sure the parents of the litter you want to view are from working stock, look for a few FTCH and FTW field trial champion and field trial winner in the pedigree. If you are hoping for success in the show ring, you should be looking for CH and SH CH title SH CH is show champion, CH is a show champion with a working certificate which is not a demanding or difficult test of working abilities. Viewing the puppies Some puppies will be raised in the home with the family. This can be ideal, as the pup will have been accustomed to people and the hustle and bustle of family life from the very beginning. Be aware though that not everyone who has a litter of puppies knows what they are doing. Look at how the pups are handled and how clean their quarters are. The pups should smell nice, and look bright and healthy. The litter may have been whelped and raised in kennels. This is also perfectly acceptable provide the breeder has accounted for this. An experienced breeder will have made sure that the pups have had plenty of human contact regardless of where they are living. Again look at the surroundings. A responsible breeder will run a clean and tidy kennels. Always see a puppy with its mother. If possible see the father too. The parents should be friendly and relaxed. The mother may not look her best seven or eight weeks after giving birth, but she should look healthy. Again, if you doubt your ability to make a judgement on a puppy or his parents, take an experienced person with you. Dog or female dog? Until fairly recently male dogs were more popular than female dogs. Fashions come and go, and at the moment, female dogs seem to be in favour. You will hear various claims as to the differences in temperament between them, but most of these contradict each other and it really is a matter of personal taste. The main disadvantage of a female dog is that she will come into season twice a year each year from the age of months until the end of her life. This can be inconvenient. Having your female dog spayed will prevent her coming into season, but the procedure is a major and expensive operation, and recent research has shown a few problems associated with spaying that you will want to consider before making your choice. Because female dogs are currently fashionable, you will probably pay more for a female dog, but as the price of a puppy is such a tiny fraction of what you will spend on her over her lifetime this is probably the least relevant factor. The appearance of a male dog may be more pleasing to some. Males tend to develop a squarer, more chunky head which some owners prefer. The average male will also grow a little taller and weigh a little more than a female. These differences are however fairly minor ones. If you are not sure whether you want a dog or female dog, keep an open mind. At least you will have a wider choice of puppies. Which puppy? If you have booked a puppy in advance from a reputable breeder, there may be little or no choice as to which puppy you have. It is not unusual to find that all puppies due in popular kennels have been booked before birth. If you are keen to buy a dog with plenty of red ink on the pedigree, you may need to do some research and book the pup as soon as the female dog has been mated. If you do get the chance to choose your puppy out of several in a litter, how should you go about it? Puppy Health Having made sure that the parents of the puppy you are viewing have good health clearances is a good start. You still need to make sure your puppy is healthy. A thorough check up by your own vet soon after you get him home will help put your mind at rest. But how can you be sure the puppy you are viewing is not sickly even before you bring him home? Some puppies may be more lethargic than others when you visit, but this may be a reflection of how hard they have been playing before you arrived, rather than how healthy they are. A good breeder will not try and sell an unhealthy puppy and if relevant, will point out any minor defects to you. Puppies are sometimes born with slightly misaligned jaws for example, which may not matter to someone who has no intention of breeding from the puppy or working him, but such a defect should not be concealed from the buyer. Umbilical hernias are not uncommon and can be troublesome. When you go to view a litter of pups it is really important to take someone with experience with you. This is especially important if the breeder is unknown to you and does not come recommended by anyone. Arrange to visit your vet within a day or two of bringing the pup home, and try not to form an attachment until he has been given a clean bill of health. If you have any doubts about the health of the puppy or the litter in general, ask for time to think. This dog will be with you for the next 12 years or more. You will become deeply attached to him or her and serious health problems can be cripplingly expensive to fix. Not to mention very distressing for you both. This needs to be the right decision for you and your family. Whilst health problems in puppies can be devastating the majority of puppies are robust and healthy and providing you take the precautions outlined above, you are unlikely to have any problems. More information on puppies Check out our Labrador Puppies section for more help and advice on choosing your new friend. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was first published on 21st November , and was updated to include new information in March .Readers Also Liked. No doubt, selection of the right pup to meet one's particular expectations is extremely important. Making a correct choice can improve the odds of producing an excellent retriever with the least amount of frustration and perhaps even avoid disappointment. The first and most important point to consider is that one must approach puppy acquisition as a genetic selection process rather than trying to utilize methods to select a promising prospect from a particular litter. Focus not so much on picking a pup, rather pick litters. The way to pick potentially successful liters is to pick a breeder who has proven brood stock and a credible reputation for producing healthy pups genetically predisposed to perform in a manner you desire. Carefully consider your expectations for your future gundog. What are the desirable traits? What will the dog's primary functions include? What breeds interest you and why? Once you decide on a breed and the desired traits are defined based upon your intended uses, then seek a reputable breeder who has experience producing pups which exemplify the traits that best suit your purposes. Genes determine the reaction of the dog to its environment, as well as, confirmation and soundness. Genes are the building blocks of heredity and are passed from parents to offspring in a predictable manner. The topic of genetics can quickly progress into a lengthy discussion unsuitable for this article but one can count on knowing this-like begets like. Total outcrosses, matings of unrelated genetics, may produce the occasionally exceptional offspring, but this is an unpredictable undertaking. The only way to gain predictability of traits is to seek an experienced breeder with proven bloodlines which produce successful progeny. This will usually involve some form of line breeding. The mating of similar genetic relationships line breeding is conducted to intensify qualities within the line and to improve upon the predictable traits within litters. Line breeding is successfully practiced in all forms of livestock. Line breeding itself produces nothing, good or bad, it merely intensifies what is genetically there in the bloodline. Most professional breeders use some form of line breeding as soon as they find a successful combination. In other words, outcrosses, random matings, despite the parents' apparent abilities and or titles, will not assure that the traits of the parents will be passed to the offspring. Only line breeding can offer this possibility. Consider, too, there is often as much difference between litter mates in ability, temperament, and tractability as one might find between separate litters within a breed. The chance factor remains, but the odds improve if the buyer: 1. Buys from established, reputable breeders who know their business. Buys pups from breeders who specialize in producing the type retriever they desire. Buys pups produced by excellent gundog parents who have produced proven progeny from previous matings. Select litters with strong mother lines. Dams should be trained hunting dogs and she should possess the qualities you desire in your dog, not just in the sire. Dams project more influence on the litter than the sire. Good bitches are seldom mated to poor dogs, yet the opposite frequently occurs. A poor bitch is unlikely to produce good pups despite the virtues of the sire. Look closely for desirable traits and strength in the trailing bottom line of the pedigree That is the dam, granddam, great granddam, etc. Excellent mothers are important. Don't pick litters based solely on the number of titles in the pedigree. These are impressive achievements to be sure, but they are not indicators of natural tractability, temperament, and gamefinding ability. Nor do titles indicate whether the traits may be passed successfully to the offspring. Evaluate parents of pups based upon gundog standards important to your needs and their demonstrated ability to produce good pups. Seek out sires, dams and grandparents that project strong genetic traits that can be passed through to their offspring. Research has indicated grandsires and granddams prove to have more genetic influence upon the litter than the sire and dam. Genetics can influence natural gifts, such as: calm temperament. Normally Lab puppies travel well, find more on this here. For many people it can be stressful not knowing how to pick or why you should pick any specific puppy. We will try to clear things up here so that you have a few criteria to select with. For the most part, the genetics of the purebred Lab puppies in the litter are set once the parents mate. When we choose to keep parents to breed we are choosing the best specimens and mating them with the hope that we are going to be creating even better puppies through the combination of their genes. Improving on weak areas with each litter is what professional breeding is all about. Now that you understand the genetic potential is set, you will work within your litter to try to narrow down the puppy who goes home with you. Keep in mind, that all of the puppies in the litter are of high quality. So, standing over the puppy box containing the puppies have a look without saying anything or doing anything. The puppies will either have different colored collars or different colored ribbons on them to identify them. Each different color corresponds to a unique microchip number implanted in that puppy. What are you looking for? Well, observe which puppies are the most active and the least active. Observe which puppy is bossy and more of a leader, and, which is more of a follower. Are there any outgoing puppies? Are there any shy ones? Please understand that puppies and all dogs for that matter will feed off of the energy of the animals and the humans around them. So, if you bring your children and they are full of energy, talking loudly, excited, etc… then the puppies will pick up on that and imitate their behavior to an extent. We love to see the kids! The vet bills, training, the poop cleaning, nail clipping, taking out to go pee at 6 am, trips to the vet, and so on are yours. All yours! So unless you feel your children have better skills to choose the puppy than you, try to leave them out of it. You want to use the criteria here to select the lab puppy that fits your family the closest. Ok, there are a couple of things I need to say first. On your pick up day and depending on how many puppies are in the litter, your puppies may be sleeping. The good news to this issue is that there will not be a bad puppy in the litter. As professional Labrador Retriever Breeders our primary goal is to create better Labrador Retriever puppies with each litter we produce. Depending on what the issue was with the puppy we would care for them or home them with a person who fully understood any issue present and was willing to care for them. Getting back to selecting your puppy. As you watch over the litter try to narrow it down to two puppies you are interested in and watch them. Look for any excitement, playfulness, shyness, active or lying around, or differences in color, size, or other physical attributes such as tail size, ear size, forehead and snout size, etc…. This means that these dogs are super smart, even tempered, loving and willing to please all because of the Labrador Retriever breed and the selections we make in our breeding program. Training is key to having a well behaved Purebred Lab Retriever puppy. On the day you pick up your puppy it will be normal for the puppies to be on the shy side. Though they have been socialized by 5 or 6 of us they get use to us. So the new sights, smells, sounds etc… that you bring will all be a brand new thing for them. At 8 weeks old they are unsure if these new stimuli are safe and they may be cautious coming to you. Again, all normal. On the other hand, a puppy who comes right up to you with no apprehension may be the one you want. Especially if you are a hunter and you need your dog to work to retrieve game. You should also know that if a puppy runs from its pack to see you it is not choosing you! It could be the more dominant or most curious puppy and it would approach anyone coming to see the litter not just you. Can we pick your lab puppy? Sure we can! The latest research we have read on the topic indicates that how a puppy behaves at 8 weeks old when with its litter has no bearing on the puppy it becomes after you train it properly. This means that for most people the training and socialization you provide is much more important than which puppy you choose. We always suggest picking the most easily trainable puppy and we will be happy to do this for you. For the best explanation on setting yourself up properly to lead your puppy to becoming a well behaved dog, please sign up for the www. A generous discount is available for our clients to help you understand how to use positive reinforcement to train your puppy. So we are happy to offer advice and can absolutely choose your puppy in the event you cannot make it, but doing so on your own would be the best scenario. Another method we frown on is the breeder evaluating a puppy with a tool to grade their personality and then comparing that to a marking tool that you complete to grade yourself. Remember when I said puppies respond differently to different people? Well they have basic emotions similar to that of a two year old. If you are not in the room, and I am evaluating the puppy remember my experience with puppies and your lack of , then how can a score sheet be used to match the two of you together effectively? You need to see the puppy behave with you. So you have it narrowed down to two puppies, compare similar personality traits and physical features as I mentioned earlier. Toss in the fact that they have medium energy and poof! Please understand what you see the puppies doing on pick up day are not how they are going to act for the rest of their lives. Puppies are not born with any knowledge of these things and rather need to be trained to understand your boundaries. For this reason we have focused on breeding smarter puppies generation after generation. At least you have some guidelines to use when you arrive. For example, the largest puppy is not necessarily going to be the biggest one when full grown. At 8 weeks old the biggest puppy has been the one who is the pushiest at the food bowl and eats the most at feedings. This is why 8 weeks is the best time for your Lab puppy to go to bond with their human family. As some puppies get larger in size they can push the other smaller puppies around so size then becomes another factor in the development of your puppy. Take your puppy home at 8 weeks old and you have provided them time with their litter to learn puppy to puppy manners weeks 4 to 8 and you have eliminated the possibility of them being bullied by the larger pups after week 8. The larger pups also will not learn to become overly dominant because there are not smaller ones around them to boss around. What about people who want the runt? The first group feel that because the runt is smaller they will listen better when truly listening is a skill learned through training. And the second group feel that a smaller puppy is sick and weak and will not thrive. Again this is not the case as smaller puppies simply do not have as strong of a food drive than their siblings. The larger issue surrounding the runt is this. Professional Lab Retriever Breeders breed for consistency. It is this consistency in our breeding program that ensures the first picked puppy is of the same high quality as the last picked. So before you arrive to choose your Purebred Lab Puppy, have a couple behavioral qualities in mind and a couple physical qualities. Observe quietly and try not to bring too many people with you so that the puppies only pick up your energy and not the energy of the group. This is the best way to truly observe how the puppy will react to you alone. Narrow it down to a couple and compare them together measuring them against your list of traits. If you make a choice to not train you have to be ready to deal with whatever your Lab decided to become. And one final note. Some people have heard to wipe a blanket where the puppy sleeps or on the mother because the scent will calm the puppy in your home. Think of it this way, if your puppy smells the mother or one of its littermates what does it do next? So a blanket with this scent on it will cue your puppy to look for someone who is likely not coming back. Imagine the frustration of a puppy newly separated from its litter being able to smell them but not find them. We suggest you do not do this to your puppy. Our suggestion to help settle the puppy only if you need to is to put a t shirt into the crate with the scent of the person who they bonded the most to. This is their new pack. Get them accustom to their new pack and the quicker they forget their old pack the easier it will be for them. Love them, set clear guidelines, and enjoy them for years to come. Chocolate Lab with pumpkin.