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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. 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.

Check Price 3. They are popular among Frenchie parents due to their ease of use and the fact that French Bulldogs usually adjust to them easily. French Bulldogs can wear a variety of harnesses to ensure their comfort and safety Features to Consider When Choosing a French Bulldog Harness Keeping your Frenchie safe and comfortable during walks and other activities is easy with the right French Bulldog harness. Get the wrong one, and you risk your dog slipping out or not wanting to wear it. Here are things to look out for when shopping for French Bulldog harnesses to get one that is perfect for your dog: 1. Materials The material used in making a harness determines how comfortable your dog will feel when wearing it. Therefore, you should only consider French Bulldog harnesses made with high-quality materials like cotton, nylon, and leather. You may need to try different materials to find the most comfortable one for your dog. Breathability Due to the structure of their flat face, Frenchies are more susceptible to breathing problems and, by extension, overheating than other dog breeds. When choosing the best harness for your French Bulldog, ensure that you opt for one that allows plenty of ventilation. This eliminates the risk of your dog suffering a heatstroke. Therefore, consider getting a harness with plenty of padding, especially around the chest and belly, to provide your dog extra comfort and safety. Adequate padding helps prevent rubbing or digging into the skin, reducing the risk of injuries and discomfort while wearing the harness. Attachment points Harnesses come with the leash attachment point on the front, back, or both. When choosing the best French Bulldog harness, you should note where its leash attachment points are, as that determines how much control you will have over your dog when walking them. Harnesses with front leash attachment offer more control than harnesses with back leash attachment. Reflective features This is optional but highly recommended if you intend to walk your Frenchie at night. Harnesses with reflective features, such as reflective strips or stitching, help to make your dog visible to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians in low-light conditions, reducing the risk of accidents. Finding the Right Fit for Your French Bulldog Before purchasing a French Bulldog harness, it is important to measure them first to ensure you get one that fits them correctly. Use a measuring tape Weight-based sizing can be misleading when shopping for the perfectly fitted French Bulldog harness. Although it can provide a general indication, it is not always accurate. Be sure to note the width of the chest at its widest point, typically an inch or two away from the armpits. If your Frenchie is a puppy, you can add an extra 3 inches to the recorded chest dimensions to allow room for growth. Weigh them Weighing your Frenchie is another step in selecting the perfect harness size. While it can be challenging to make them stand still, an easier way to do it is by carrying your dog and stepping onto the scales to obtain your combined weight. After taking note of the combined weight, place the dog back down and weigh yourself alone. Selecting the perfect harness for your Frenchie becomes much easier if you accurately measure their chest, neck, and weight. The tutorial video above provides a good visual guide on how to measure your pup for a harness. For the neck, measure around the widest part, usually right below where the collar sits. For the chest, measure around the broadest part, which is typically right behind the front legs. Always remember to check the fit regularly as your French Bulldog puppy grows, adjusting the harness or upgrading to a larger size when needed. Thus, a harness with a secure buckle system is a must to prevent any possible escape attempts. However, it is an essential part of their overall training and care. For this process to be as smooth as possible, there are a few tips that you can follow: 1. Gradual introduction Some French Bulldogs might find harnesses scary and may not want to have anything to do with them. If your Frenchie is one such dog, you can help them get comfortable by slowly introducing them to the harness. Allow them to sniff and inspect the harness before putting it on them. Positive reinforcement Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective tools to teach French Bulldogs acceptable behaviors. Be sure to reward your Frenchie with treats, praise, and attention when they show interest or interact with the harness. Gradually work towards putting the harness on them and reward them for wearing it without fuss. Patience and persistence Your Frenchie may not be excited about wearing a harness and could even throw a fit. However, this should not make you frustrated or cause you to give up on their training. Instead, take small steps each day and continue to reinforce positive behavior. This is important because if your dog experiences pain whenever they wear it, they would naturally resist wearing harnesses. You must also inspect the harness for damages and replace it if necessary. Finding the ideal harness for a French Bulldog puppy is slightly different than choosing one for an adult Frenchie. Given their smaller size and growing nature, harnesses for French Bulldog puppies should have some key attributes. First, opt for a harness that has a fully adjustable chest and neck area. This adaptability not only ensures that the harness fits your pup perfectly but also accommodates their rapid growth. Second, a good puppy harness should be lightweight and soft on the skin to avoid any unnecessary discomfort or chafing. For French Bulldog puppies, a harness with a broad chest piece is beneficial. Padded Harnesses Types of French Bulldog Harnesses The market is full of different types of dog harnesses, each with its unique features, benefits, and limitations. Finding french bulldog harnesses can be tricky. Frenchie owners may find it tricky to pick the right harness. Here are some options! However, they might not be the best option for dogs with short snouts or those prone to tracheal issues. No Pull Harness Back Clip Harnesses Back clip harnesses have the ring leash attachment on the back and offer comfortable movement for the dog, reducing the chances of getting tangled. Back Clip French bulldog Harnesses Step In Harness Dual Clip Harnesses These offer the flexibility of both front and back ring leash attachment points, suitable for dogs at different stages of their training. Again, the Ruffwear front range harness is a dual clip harness. Most french bulldog harnesses made these days are dual clip harnesses. They are ideal for dogs that are nervous about things going over their head. Also Ideal for breeds prone to ivdd, focusing pressure more on the chest than the neck. Frenchie Friends Brand Step In Harness Padded Harnesses Padded harnesses provide additional comfort, especially for dogs with short hair or sensitive skin. Again with the Ruffwear! They really do tick all the boxes in terms of quality and features. Ruffwear Front Range Harness Introduction to French Bulldog Harnesses Dog harnesses are an essential item for dog owners worldwide, improving control and safety during walks while reducing the risk of injury to your furry friend. But with a plethora of options available, choosing the right harness can be a challenging task. A great french bulldog harness is necessary for Adult Frenchie to avoid damaging the spine, causing ivdd. Frenchie Brand Dog Harness Factors to Consider when Choosing a French Bulldog Harness Several factors play a crucial role in choosing the perfect french bulldog harness for your canine companion. Reflective strips for visibility can also be a valuable addition. Pros and Cons of Harnesses Front Clip Harnesses These days all french bulldog harnesses have both front and back clips. This feature is particularly beneficial for dogs that tend to pull on the leash. Reduces pulling: When a dog pulls, the front clip will cause them to turn around towards you, discouraging the pulling behavior. Not suitable for short-snouted dog breeds: Dog Breeds such as pugs and french bulldogs can have issues with front clip harnesses as the pressure may be too close to their throat, causing breathing difficulties. Back Clip Harnesses Again, now most french bulldog harnesses have both front and back clips. Easy to clip your French bulldogs into car seats, upping the safety factor Cons: Less control: If your french bulldogs are pullers, a back-clip harness might not be the best option as it provides less control than a front-clip one. Can encourage pulling: Some dogs might feel like pulling more when the leash is attached to their back, triggering their instinct to oppose the pulling pressure. You can attach the leash at the front for training or behavior correction, and at the back when just casually walking. Cons: Complexity: These harnesses can be a bit more complex to fit and adjust correctly. Step-In Harnesses Pros: Easy to wear: Your dog only needs to step into the harness, making it a good choice for dogs that are uncomfortable with harnesses sliding over their head. Cons: Less secure: Some step-in harnesses may not provide the same level of security and may come off more easily than other types. Padded Harnesses Pros: Extra comfort: The additional padding can provide more comfort for dogs, especially those with short hair or sensitive skin. Cons: Heat retention: The extra material might make your french bulldogs warmer, which may not be ideal in hot climates or for breeds prone to overheating. Try a cooling vest in summer when using this style! Remember, every french bulldog is unique, and their comfort is paramount. French Bulldog Harness Material Dog harnesses come in a variety of materials — nylon, polyester, and leather, to name a few. Each material has its own pros and cons. Nylon French Bulldog Harnesses: Durability: Nylon is known for its strength and can withstand rough use. Variety: They come in various colors and designs. Easy to Clean: Most nylon harnesses are machine washable. Cons: Can cause rubbing: In some dogs, particularly those with short hair or sensitive skin, nylon harnesses can cause chafing. Leather Harnesses: Durability: Leather harnesses are robust and long-lasting. Aesthetic appeal: They have a luxurious and classic look. Cons: Cost: Leather harnesses tend to be more expensive. Maintenance: They require regular cleaning and conditioning to keep the leather from drying out and cracking. A harness that is too tight can cause discomfort and restricted movement, while one that is too loose may not provide adequate control and can even be a safety hazard if your dog manages to slip out of it. Pros of a Well-Fitted French Bulldog Harness: Comfort: A well-fitted french bulldog harness ensures that your french bulldogs are comfortable during walks. May irritate skin. Risk of Escaping: A loose french bulldog harness might not provide adequate control, and your french bulldogs could potentially slip out. When buying a harness, look for one with adjustable straps that can be altered to get a perfect fit. Harness Training Tips for Your French Bulldogs Training your new French Bulldog Puppy to use a harness might require some time and patience, but the benefits are worth the effort. Getting your new French bulldog puppy accustomed to a new harness might take some time and patience. Start slow, let your bulldog puppy wear the harness for short periods initially. Reward them for their cooperation with treats and positive reinforcement. Collars are not recommended for regular use until at least 7 months of age. The trachea of the french bulldog puppy is still forming. Improper use of collars and putting pressure on the french bulldogs neck and throat can cause serious damage. However a breakaway collar with a bell is smart, allowing you to hear the puppy, for the puppy to get used to the feeling of a collar, and it still allows you the ability to show a sense of style. Never leave french bulldog puppies unattended with collars and harnesses on. Starting with the French Bulldog Harness: Introduction: Let your french bulldog dog sniff and explore the new harness. Reward their curiosity with treats. Adjustment: Place the harness on your french bulldog without fastening it. Give treats and praise during this process to create positive associations. Short Sessions: Begin with short sessions of having the harness on. Gradually increase the duration as your french bulldog dog gets comfortable. Walks: Start going for short walks. Use treats and praises as reinforcement. Remember, every french bulldog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are the keys to successful harness training. I know of a few companies that do! Red Dingo and Ruffwear. We prefer the over the head harness versus the step in harness. When looking at over the head harnesses, make sure to look for one with adjustable straps. French Bulldog heads can be huge and hard to get over, but once over the head, the harness can be extremely loose. Adjustable straps will make it easy to put on but securable for proper fitting. These can also be adjusted as the new french bulldog puppy grows! You will want to measure your frenchie puppy before going shopping for a puppy harness. You can find these at your local drug store or Walmart. Whether your french bulldog is small, medium, or large, you should use the same methods to measure them. To fit your french bulldog dog for a harness, you need two measurements: the neck and the chest. When measuring the neck, wrap the tape measure just below the narrow part where she normally wears a collar. The correct spot to measure will be right above them. When measuring the chest, take care to fit the tape measure around the widest part. Weight can also be a factor in finding the correct size. In addition to measurements, there are other factors that should also influence your purchase. Some harnesses are styled to fit certain body types better than others. The Ruffwear Front Range Harness is a great option for french bulldogs of all ages. Our lb french bulldogs fit in XS, lb french bulldogs fit in Small, and french bulldog pups easily fit in xxs. These french bulldog harnesses are all machine washable. The Red Dingo and Ruffwear have adjustment points, front clip, and padding. These two are my favorite. The Gooby harness is a mesh harness with an adjustable belly strap. This one is great for tiny french bulldog puppies. Kitten Collars Bells are helpful so you can hear your new french bulldog puppy beneath your feet. They come with bells and break away if the puppy should become stuck or strangled. If you are purchasing a new collar because your dog has out-grown its current collar, simply select the next size up from your measurement findings. Measure twice, buy once. But not every home has a soft tape measure. Or just take your string with you to the store! Add 1 — 2 inches to the initial measurement to give extra breathing room and comfort if the dog grows or gains weight. There are a bunch of companies that make fashionable Bulldog specific products. Check out Etsy and Facebook! Conclusion Selecting the right type of harness for your dog is crucial for their comfort, safety, and your peace of mind. As Frenchie owners, you can now feel confident during your shopping experience! FAQs How do I know the right size of the harness for my dog? Can a harness stop my dog from pulling? Training is the most effective way to stop pulling. Can my new french bulldog puppy wear a harness? Yes, but ensure it is the correct size and is adjusted properly to not impede their growth. Is a harness better than a collar? A harness provides better control and evenly distributes pressure, reducing the risk of injury. However, some well-behaved dogs may be comfortable with a collar. Pet parents often have a hard time picking out a new french bulldog puppy harness and collar for their puppy. Dont forget to subscribe and follow on socials! French Bulldog puppies require special harnesses due to their unique body structure and specific needs. Here are a few reasons why French Bulldog puppies benefit from harnesses explicitly designed for them: Brachycephalic Anatomy : French Bulldogs have a brachycephalic short-nosed anatomy, which can make traditional collars uncomfortable and potentially harmful. Collars can pressure their sensitive neck and throat area, leading to breathing difficulties or neck strain. Harnesses distribute the pressure more evenly across the chest, reducing the risk of injury and allowing for better control. Using a harness helps minimize strain on the neck and spine during walks or when restraining them. It offers better support and prevents unnecessary pressure on these vulnerable areas. Control and Safety: French Bulldog puppies can be quite strong-willed and energetic, making it essential to have reasonable control during walks. A well-fitting harness provides better control over their movements, reducing the risk of them slipping out of the collar or leash. Harnesses often feature sturdy D-rings for leash attachment, ensuring a secure connection. Comfort and Mobility: French Bulldog puppies have a unique body shape characterized by a stocky build and broad chest. Harnesses designed specifically for French Bulldogs take into account their proportions, providing a snug fit without restricting their movements. The suitable harness allows them to walk, run, and play comfortably, enhancing their enjoyment and well-being. Training and Behavior: Harnesses can be valuable tools for training and managing behavior in French Bulldog puppies. They offer better control for leash training, discourage pulling, and make it easier to redirect their attention. A properly fitted harness ensures that training sessions are positive and comfortable, promoting a positive association with walks and outdoor activities. Owners can prioritize their comfort, safety, and well-being by using a harness designed specifically for French Bulldog puppies. It allows them to enjoy walks and outdoor adventures while minimizing potential health risks and providing better control over their energetic and spirited nature. When selecting a harness, consider the following factors: Size and Fit: French Bulldogs have a distinct and unique body structure that sets them apart from other breeds. Their stocky build requires a specially designed harness to accommodate their shape. When selecting a harness for a French Bulldog, opting for adjustable options that can provide a snug fit without compromising their movement is crucial. This ensures both comfort and functionality during walks and adventures. By choosing a harness tailored to their specific body type, French Bulldogs can enjoy the freedom to move comfortably while still being securely and comfortably harnessed. Material and Durability: Look for harnesses made from high-quality materials such as nylon or neoprene, which are durable and comfortable for your furry friend. Avoid harnesses with rough edges or uncomfortable seams that could irritate. Ease of Use: Choose a harness that is easy to put on and take off. Buckles or snap closures are preferable, ensuring a secure fit and hassle-free handling. Safety Features: Look for harnesses with reflective strips or patches to enhance visibility during low-light walks. Additionally, a sturdy D-ring for leash attachment is vital to prevent accidental escapes. It offers both front- and back-leash attachment options, ensuring versatility for different walking styles and training needs. The durable construction and enhanced safety features make it a standout choice. Its adjustable chest belt offers a snug fit without restricting movement. With vibrant color options and excellent durability, this harness combines style and functionality. It features four adjustment points for a secure fit and includes a sturdy front clip for leash attachment, discouraging pulling and promoting better leash manners. Its reflective elements enhance visibility, making it ideal for nighttime adventures. It offers a comfortable and secure fit, making it an excellent choice for French Bulldogs who tend to be escape artists. It features adjustable straps for a customized fit and a sturdy back attachment point, providing better control during walks. It features an easy-to-use one-click buckle and an adjustable strap system for a secure fit. The reflective stitching enhances visibility during low-light conditions. It boasts durable materials, a comfortable fit, and a versatile front and back leash attachment system. It also has a handle on the back for extra control and support. It features adjustable straps, soft padding, and a sturdy handle on the back for better control. The high-visibility reflectors ensure safety during nighttime walks. It features high-quality materials, adjustable straps, and many stylish designs. These harnesses have gained popularity among French Bulldog owners for their quality construction, comfort, adjustability, and safety features. This well-crafted harness offers a combination of style, comfort, and safety. Its padded chest plate and five adjustment points ensure an impeccable fit, accommodating the unique body shape of French Bulldogs. The Tru-Fit Smart Harness features a front and back leash attachment, allowing you to choose the optimal position for training or casual walks. Its durable construction, easy-to-use design, and enhanced safety features make it the standout choice for French Bulldog puppy owners. Best Harness for French Bulldogs That Pull When it comes to choosing the best harness for French Bulldogs that pull, there are a few options that can help discourage pulling behavior and provide better control. Here are a couple of harnesses known for their effectiveness in managing pulling: Freedom No-Pull Harness: The Freedom No-Pull Harness is designed to discourage pulling by utilizing a dual-clip system. It also features a back attachment point for regular walking. The harness has adjustable straps for a customized fit and is known for its durability and comfort. The harness is designed to discourage pulling without causing discomfort, utilizing a unique front chest strap. It has adjustable shoulder and belly straps to ensure a snug fit. Remember that while a harness can help manage pulling, it is essential to pair it with positive reinforcement training techniques to address the root cause of the pulling behavior. Patience, consistency, and reward-based training methods can be effective in teaching your French Bulldog to walk politely on a leash. This harness provides support for both the front and rear end of the dog. It features adjustable straps and soft padding, making it comfortable for your French Bulldog while providing assistance with mobility. The harness is designed to minimize pressure on the spine and offers handles for easy lifting and support. It is specifically designed to aid dogs with mobility issues, including those with IVDD. Conclusion When selecting the best harness for your French Bulldog puppy, consider its unique body structure, comfort, safety, and ease of use. Email address: Leave this field empty if you're human: Popular Posts. Advanced technology for secure fit Made from high-quality, durable material Easy to put on and take off Comfortable design does not restrict movement Reflective strips for visibility in low light Comes with a handle for additional control Customizable name plate area 4. It features a unique triangular structure and is made from high-density oxford fabric. The harness is equipped with 2 metal leash rings and a chest attachment clip to prevent your dog from pulling. It also has 3 snap buckles, making it easy to put on and take off. The harness also features 4 easy adjusting straps around the body and reflective material for safety during night walks. Best No Pull Frenchie Harness Robust and adjustable design Made from high-density oxford fabric Features 2 metal leash rings and a chest attachment clip Easy to put on and take off with 3 snap buckles Comes with 4 easy adjusting straps Reflective material for night safety Unique triangular structure for comfort and safety Soft Padded Handle for ease of handling Check Price on Amazon The Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness by Best Pet Supplies is a lightweight, all-weather harness perfect for walks all year round. It is made with a soft, breathable air mesh and features reflective bands for enhanced visibility during early morning and late evening strolls. The harness is designed with three safety features: a hook and loop fastener, buckle, and double D-rings, providing three layers of security for your pet. It is easy to put on and take off, making it perfect for everyday use. References What to Look for in a French Bulldog Harness Are there any special considerations to take into account when choosing gear for a Frenchie? Related: Best Dog Harnesses Australia. What does that mean, except that they have cute faces? Well, the cute face also comes with its own set of issues. The main problem caused by BOAS is that it makes it difficult for dogs to breathe. As a consequence, they might be prone to coughing, get tired easily during exercise, and be prone to overheating. Here is what our research team say to pay attention to when choosing a harness for your Frenchie: The Right Fit French Bulldogs are one of those breeds that are a bit difficult to shop for. That means that the chest plate or the chest strap or any part that falls in that area should sit fairly low. While most standard harnesses have a lead attachment point on the back, there is also the option of a front-clip dog harness. According to our team of independent experts, front-clip dog harnesses are designed to help teach the dog to stop pulling. Well, for small short-nosed dogs, we generally do not recommend a front-clip harness. Comfort and Safety The key to finding the perfect harness for any dog is striking the right balance between comfort, safety, and durability [ 3 ]. However, these harnesses are typically not as strong and durable as some other options. On the other hand, while comfortable, a harness that covers too much of the body surface might trap heat so it might not be the best option for warm weather. The choices below are the ones we and our independent panel of experts were able to wholeheartedly agree are the best of the best. What sets this product apart from the rest? What more could we ask from a harness? The trick behind this harness is that it combines a design that is more common in typical H-shaped harnesses with a step-in mechanism, just like our number two choice. On taller and skinnier breeds, the chest part can look and feel a bit awkward, but it fits just right on the muscular frame of the French Bulldog. The only issue that might occur with this harness is the difficulty of finding the perfect fit. Material The material the harness is made of is one of the most important features to consider. It needs to be made of a material that your pup finds soft and comfortable. A handle on top of the harness is great for Frenchies who are just getting used to being on a harness. The handle will give you control if your pooch starts misbehaving. Some of the harnesses on our list include clips for safer car rides. They allow your pup to stay tethered in your vehicle so they will be safer in the event of an accident. If you go on a lot of car rides with your Frenchie, look for harnesses with seat belt tethers to get more bang for your buck. Another thing to be on the lookout for is secure connectors. Manufacturers use a wide variety of connector types in the construction of their harnesses. Keep an eye out for options with durable and secure connection points. You might need to sacrifice a bit of convenience as durable connectors can be a bit harder to take off and put on, but if your Frenchie is an escape artist, you need that extra strength for his safety. Harnesses with back clips are better than ones with front clips when Frenchies are concerned. French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed and front-clip style harnesses tend to put a lot of pressure on the throat region especially if the dog is a puller when leashed. The harnesses on our list are all fairly simple to put on. Most either have a step-in design or an over-the-head design. The one that you ultimately choose will depend on your dog and his comfort level. Here are some general guidelines for measuring your Frenchie for his new harness. This should be a few inches behind his front legs. Take this number and add a few inches to allow for growth and movement. Step Two—Measure the Neck: While measuring his neck, wrap the tape measure just below the narrowest part of his neck. This should be the same spot his collar sits if he wears one. Step Three—Read the Size Chart: Each company that sells dog harnesses will have its own sizing chart. Image Credit: Firn, Shutterstock How to Get Your Frenchie Used to His Harness If your pup has never worn a harness before, it will take some getting used to before you can go out of the house together. Start small by allowing him to smell the harness when you bring it home. Put one of his favorite treats on top of the harness and let him eat it off it. Touch his body with the harness and use his favorite praise words and phrases while doing so to help him create positive associations with the harness. If the harness you choose has a buckle, the sound can be loud and frightening at first. Practice opening and closing the buckle in his presence and offer him a treat when it clicks. Once he feels comfortable with the smell and sounds of the harness, you can try putting it on him. Never force it onto him; instead let him lead the way. Let him wear the harness around the house. Once he is comfortable, add a leash. For example, allowing your dog to sleep in his harness is risky because it can get caught on something and choke your dog. Your dog would be very uncomfortable in his harness day-in, day-out. You also should never leave a wet harness on your dog for an extended period as it could trap water and bacteria and cause an infection. Conclusion The best overall dog harness for Frenchies is the Best Pet Supplies Voyager with its comfortable, secure fit and high-quality construction. For the best value, the Frisco Back Clip takes the prize thanks to its affordable price and easy-to-use design. If money is no object, the Julius K9 Harness is the clear winner with its highly adjustable design and numerous safety features. She grew up on the prairies in Canada surrounded by animals and as an adult, she chooses to share her home with five cats, two guinea pigs, and a bearded dragon. Chantelle, her husband, and their child take great pride in being great animal parents - the ones who spend a thousand dollars on wall-mounted cat shelves so that their cats can have an indoor jungle gym all year round. Read more Advertisement.

Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. You will need A collar with the name tag and a leash. You will also need dog treats to reward a dog while training. Also, necessary things like a bed, dog food, and bowls should be bought. Schedule It is vital to take care of sleep, food, and walking early. Make a schedule to get all your work done and take care of the dog. A fixed schedule will teach your dog to maintain decorum and Stick to its routine. Working along with the schedule will help both you and your dog. It helps you maximize your productivity and teaches the dog to behave independently. Safety While welcoming a dog into your family, your primary responsibility is taking care of its safety. Brief all of your family members about how to care for a dog, foods you should not feed the dog, etc. When you bring your dog home, it is necessary to constantly keep an eye on him as their surroundings are new, and the dog can be curious to explore it, harming himself in the process. It is of utmost importance to Keep any poisonous substance out of reach. Online Boxer Breeders in Florida FL : In case your pet store does not have a boxer breed puppy, there are very reliable online websites available from which you can buy. There is a high chance of finding a better dog online than your local pet store. You will find many options online. They have accommodated over two hundred thousand puppies in caring homes. They aim to give every puppy a happy home and improve their lives. Jor boxer puppies Jor boxer puppies specialize in breeding high-quality and healthy boxer breeds. They give assurance on the health and performance of their dogs. They offer dogs with excellent bloodlines from around the globe. Their dogs are very social and friendly. You can find a highly skilled breeder for boxer dogs. As this is an online marketplace, it has a vast network and can search for the best dog in the country. Puppies for sale today Puppies for sale today is a website that connects you with breeders Worldwide and helps you find the perfect fit. You will find anyone with a boxer puppy for sale on this website. It is a very genuine and proficient website. Adopt a pet For anyone looking for a boxer puppy on sale, adopt a pet is a reputable online website that you should check out. They offer puppies of all breeds, so you have a variety to look at before choosing a dog fit for you. Boxer breeders and boxer sellers in Florida FL : A highly skilled boxer breeder will keep the puppies with their parents for a minimum of seven to eight weeks. So if your breeder does not have any vaccine or health checkup documentation, do not buy a dog from him. A breeder specializing in breeding boxers alone should be preferred over the breeders who breed more than one type of dog breed. Upkeep of a dog: 1. Boxers like to look tidy. Hence you should bathe them once every 2 to 3 weeks. Boxes tend to have short hair, so brushing them once in a while will do just fine. Training Early training helps significantly in developing discipline. Socializing and exercising helps channel all the strength and energy in the right direction. Boxers need something new every time for entertainment. They are also very obedient and intelligent. Boxer breeds are also considered police dogs and assist in detecting drugs and finding missing people. Health Boxers need a moderate temperature and do not do well with acute cold or heat. They need to be considered part of the family and kept inside the house. Breeders should check for health conditions like Cardiac disorder, hip dislocation, thyroid deficiency, And the particular type of cancers. Nourishment Whether commercially produced dog food or home-cooked dog food, it should be high-quality and appropriate nutrition. It is vital to keep track of calorie consumption as some dogs are prone to weight gain. Also, treats should be given in moderation, or else they will throw tantrums at you if you give them their dog food. Giving a lot of treats can also cause obesity. Keep your veterinarian in the loop with what you are giving your dog and also ask for consultation from time to time. FAQs Which other dog breeds can be crossed with a boxer breed? Boxer and the Rottweiler cross will give you a protective and loyal pet. It will also keep the trespassers at bay. A boxer and an American pit bull are often compared, but a cross of these two breeds will give you an intelligent and faithful dog. A boxer and an American bulldog cross is muscular and looks more like a boxer. Are boxer breed dogs hostile? Boxers are aggressive and want to dominate other dogs, mainly of the same sex. However, exercises like playing fetch and taking the dog on walks helps tone down the aggression and increases energy and agility. It is also capable of causing harm to other animals if it detects any threat. Do boxers bark a lot? A boxer breed dog has high energy and playful nature. Conclusion: The Business of breeding dogs is practiced on a large scale. Large-scale breeding also raises The chances of scams; hence, getting your dog from reliable means is necessary. Vaccinations and health certificates are also necessary to look for when buying a dog. We also looked at some of the exciting crossbreeds between the boxer and other dog species. What is this article helpful? Let us know in the comment section below. Find Boxer Breeders in Other States:.

We where blessed with 6 males and 3 females. The puppies are Now ready for their new homes. Your puppy comes home with the following. Their mom teaches them manners, confidence and boundaries. Check out our past puppy videos and pictures. One of my favorite childhood memories was puppies. We had several litters growing up. Our love affair with Frenchies started with Liz. She was sweet, energetic, loving and very entertaining. One of the things I love about this breed is that they love the whole family and not just one person. They love to cuddle. Dressing them up is easy and fun. French Bulldogs love people so they are great if you take them to work or to Grandma's for Thanksgiving. We have a farm located on 20 acres in Spirit Lake, Idaho. Paisley The American Kennel Club describes French Bulldogs as "an active, intelligent, muscular dog, with a smooth coat, compact medium build,they are expressive, alert, and curious. They are the 1 most popular AKC ranking dog as of .What Is A French Bulldog? The French Bulldog is a small breed of domestic dog. In , they were the fourth most popular registered dog in the United Kingdom and in the U. French Bulldogs originated from England, France. The first French Bulldogs were brought to America in by wealthy Society ladies. We consider them to be family so we play with the puppies and take them on a few car rides as well. They enjoy playing outdoors when the weather is warm. We are not a kennel. Our goal is to breed Quality, Beautiful, well socialized puppies. Embark test for over different diseases. All of Our French Bulldogs have been tested as well as our puppies. Mans best friend truly is a French Bulldog. Cuddled up next to you on your bed under the covers snoring softly while hogging your pillows. Copiloting around town with you drinking doggy Cappuccino. Every day is an adventure with frenchies Want to be on our waiting list? You can also contact us on the form below. Past Puppies Have you checked out the puppy page? We have lots pictures, videos, and information. Questions we have contact form below. Fill out my online form. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. MVS hunt their Spinone but Spinone also make great family, obedience, tracking, agility, therapy, help, and much much more. The Spinone are a wonderful combination, the best of both worlds. In its early history, the Italian Spinone was generally a healthy breed. However, indiscriminate breeding practices due to ignorance, lack of concern, and monetary gain changed the landscape dramatically. Our beloved breed has some issues that need to be addressed. These are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and thyroid conditions. A DNA testing is also appreciated. Any dog that has had a history of unexplained seizures or any other obvious hereditary medical conditions must never be bred. Remember that these are serious health conditions that will severely impact the quality and length of life of any affected puppies. Health screening of breeding stock cannot guarantee that your puppy will be excluded from any of these problems but the risk factor is mitigated substantially. It is important to insist on a minimum set of standards when acquiring a Spinone puppy. A good breeder should be able to demonstrate testing of these issues by either providing a link to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals records, CHIC records through AKC or they should be able to supply copies of the certified paperwork they received after the test screening was completed. If they do not, or are not willing to provide this information, search out a breeder that is willing to disclose this information. Your breeder should offer a minimum of 1-year written guarantee against genetic health conditions. No matter where you purchase a pup, please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions. Although I try and let the new owners chose the color and sex, I choose the pups to fit their new owners. Spinone pups will have a middle of the road temperament to fit well into any family. The Spinone puppy must be well socialized to adjust with new people, new situations, and travel to new places. The pup will have a sound conformation as well and some great hunting ability. North Idaho Frenchies. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Idaho? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Idaho work? French Bulldogs for sale in Idaho come in a wide range of prices. The price is affected by factors such as breeder experience, pedigree, coat color, and more. What will my French Bulldog be like? All dogs are individuals, but Idaho French Bulldog puppies for sale are known for being fun, friendly, and eager to please. They are companion dogs, so they are happiest when with their owners. And they are incredibly cute too! So start looking here and find your Idaho French Bulldog for sale today. Are French Bulldogs more expensive than other dogs? French Bulldog puppies for sale Idaho tend to be more expensive. Breeding French Bulldogs requires a lot of skill. Their narrow hips mean pups must be delivered by cesarean, and dogs must be artificially inseminated because natural reproduction is so difficult. All this affects the price of French Bulldog puppies for sale in Idaho. Can you connect me with breeders outside of my area? You might find your pup from local French Bulldog breeders in Idaho. But if not, our network spans the country. Breeders can arrange travel for your puppy, so you can simply arrange to pick up your new pup at your most convenient major airport. How do you screen the French Bulldog breeders in your network? We have a strict vetting process in place for Idaho French Bulldog breeders and companies that want to join our network. Factors like animal care, experience, and more come into play. All this ensures you are choosing your pup from the best when you search here for French Bulldog breeders Idaho. Why is Uptown Puppies any better than searching online? Puppy mills and backyard breeders are very common, but you can make sure you avoid them when you search for French Bulldog puppies Idaho here. What makes puppy mills so bad? Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. If I search now, will I find French Bulldog pups? Start your search and you may well find your cute little Frenchie today, so get searching now and see what you can find. Will my French Bulldog puppy be OK around the kids? Idaho French Bulldogs for sale are popular family dogs. This is because they are friendly and gentle, and they tend to get on well with kids. They are companion dogs, which means they just love human contact. However, like any dog, they should be supervised when around young children. Do French Bulldogs need a lot of exercise? A French Bulldog Idaho will be happy to spend time indoors with you, for example, because these are companion dogs. However, they still need a walk a day, or a few short walks, and they will enjoy playing with you too.

I love the breed. I am wanting to purchase another GSD female. I live in New castle Pa. Please call me if you have puppy available. They are by far the best dogs we have ever had. We have had other breeds, however, and they didn't train as easy and they weren't as well behaved as our German Shepherds. And the fact that they are great guard dogs is a plus. Very loyal, protective, and loving. They are sweet but protective even at 4 months. That are our breed of choice. By far they are the best and only dog breed I would own. They stick to you like glue and love to play. .They are extremely energetic and require a lot of time for exercise and training. Socialize early! Like it says on here, it makes a HUGE difference in how they perceive the world. They are such amazing dogs and will always protect your family. When I was a little girl my German shepherd always was there at the bs stop when I got off. He was SO protective. I recommend this breed but they shed A LOT so please do your research. You can't ask for a better combination of intelligence, beauty, loyalty, companionship and protector of home and family. They have a fantastic disposition! They are very gentle, loving, and are great with children. What more could you ask for? They are alert loving loyal companions. The only reason I can't have one at this time is I travel to rv parks and most of them won't take them, so I get Jack Russells. Probably the polar opposite personality, but they are pretty cool. His hips are very bad, he has arthritis and ihave a very hard tome walking. Both extremely different personalities. Females are great watch dogs, while males are more of a personal guard dog. They both were so loyal, loving, smart, obedient, easy to train, beautiful and the best friend you could ever ask for. Be careful with table foods and novelty treats, their stomachs can be sensitive which can cause diarrhea and vomiting. I always fed my two German shepherds top of the line dog food. It is much more expensive, but will keep your dog healthier and help to live longer I had my shepherds groomed every other month. My male had long hair, my female had short hair. She shed so much twice a year I could have made pillows out of her hair. That's why grooming was so important for her. They are amazing dogs, they had a large vocabulary and could tell me when they needed something or something was wrong. They will be forever in my heart. I honestly can't say a bad word about the breed, except mine is an escape artist. He opens doors, locked gates and I still haven't figured out how he does it, although I have secured the gates. I've had other breeds, but German Shepherd are in a class of their own, Truly majestic! We had him shipped from Ohio to Phoenix Arizona. The shipping company was easy to work with. We have had the dog now for a year and he has a great temperament. Everyone who sees him says he is really a beautiful animal. This web site made it very easy to pay and have the dog shipped within 3 days. I am an owner of my forth shepherd. Excellent as a watchdog, too. Surprisingly playful. We need 2 German Sheperd puppies that are going to grow up to be strong potecters that can handle kids and cats. I have had a few and am looking for another. To me they are just so smart and loyal and the best. And they learn fast. They are the most intelligent, loving and best breed I have ever known. My daughter Nicole, loves puppies and her friend, has a German Shepherd named Lewis , and she loves playing with him. I hope you love these pooches as much as I do. We didn't order one from here, and my wife is alergic to dogs fur, but that doesn't stop my daughter! The puppy was in excellent health and he is so intelligent, not to mention beautiful. He was completely house broken within two weeks and was responding to commands immediately. I highly recommend purchasing from this site and especially this farm. They are very obident and they stick with you through everything. She was very intelligent and had pups 2X if I am correct. I am now a proud Pit owner, I love him - he is also obedient very playful and great with my Grandkids and family. I may be interested in another GSD in the near future are there any locations near Indianapolis, Indiana? We met with a breeder John and saw how wonderful his children were with the puppies. We met the mother and father along with her siblings. When little Fiona at the time we re-named her Raven came running out we both fell in love. The puppies had freedom on the farm and when we transitioned her from farm life to city life it was easy. She is beautiful, smart, and so well behaved with us and our puppy. A big thank you to John in New Providence for our little girl. We love her and are just beyond happy with her! Mine even lets them lay on him! They are so smart and extremely easy to train. Very good family dog and excellent guard dog. Love them. Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by Elwood Clingan Great all around dog they have a high drive and must be tought to know there place in the family or you may have problems never let them think they are in charge an lead the way great protector and very kid friendly but plan on keeping them active as much as you can and training from a pup is a must Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by Ruth Pluck Westwoods None German Shepherd Breed Review by Michael hartentstine Beautiful puppy. To bad it grows into a disgusting, slobbering, farting, over grown horse. Gentle giants, but they Thot they were little dogs! Especially when they try to sit on ur lap. .She died a few mos. They're not gonna protect unless ya love them as a true family member. Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by reagan yes. Strong in character and their ability to and willingness to please. A forever companion with a loving and forgiving nature to the handler. It takes more than just mating a male with a female to produce quality. Having said that. The breed is protective, noble, honest and loving to the handler and family, and especially loyal. I would give him high star rating. He passed away at 13 and half years old. I only had to show him 1 time how to do sometime and he never forgot. Great family dog especially great and protective over baby's. I got Layla from a private breeder, and that is what I would more so recommend. Dogs from sites like this one are likely from puppy mills. Beautiful pup and not beautiful dog. We were able to meet the mother and father and we had no issues. In august of we got our second german shepherd pup Juno. She Is a beautiful bicolor female. Also the experience was good. No issues. Were able to meet mother and puppies. I recommend this site to anyone. We had no bad experiences and both our dogs are healthy , beautiful and wonderful with our children. Our German shepherd makes us laugh, angry, and totally in love with him. Anderson is an amazing dog and German Shepherds are an amazing breed. I will never go with another breed. Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by Stephanie German shepherds are great dogs and with little training they catch on to many tricks and learn how to walk on a leash properly they are very protective of the family and angels to their family they are loyal,incredible,and smart dogs I highly recommend them they also are vary active and needs lots of exercise Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by Sam Grewal i had a German Shepard for 13 years, he just passed away last week, German Shepard is a awesome dog, very handsome,strong,loyal,fearless,protective and above all very very intelligent dog,during the age between four months to a year they learn almost everything you teach, just have to be a patient while teaching but they learn faster than most other breeds. They shed lot of hairs but if you brush them twice a week then you wont see much shedding. I suggest German Shepard strongly because they make better family pet than any other breed. Needs groomed weekly. On the road to pick up ourGreat companion dogs, very protective of the family,great with little kids ,very intelligent,almost like they are trying to figure out what you are thinking. Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by Brian Anderson Have 2 white ones I can't imagine life without them they are so in tune with people and understand a lot more than most dogs their loving nature matches their smarts and will always be up for an adventure my one tries to talk back when you speak to her it's hilarious to see she looks u in the eyes when u speak like she's really paying attention to every word haha no breed is better Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by Tracy We used this site to find our Jake.He's a true blessing to our family. The dog I got is beautiful and healthy. Being from NJ I was a little hesitant on searching for a breeder. But I am so happy I took the risk and found a new best friend. She was the best dog I ever had. I am currently looking to adopt one to keep! After weeks of research my boyfriend and I decided on a German Shepherd. We are surprised everyday that he does not chew and has never one gone to the bathroom in he house. He is extremely well tempered with our patients I am a paramedic and he is a fireman , with hopes of turning him into a service dog on our local ambulance. WE could not have chosen a better dog or a better breeder, we recommend this site to all of our friends that are looking for puppy. If you can hang in there and put in the time and the training, you will have a loyal, loving, and intelligent lifetime companion. You will get back so much more than you can possibly imagine! Hes great smart amd loyal. But if i could rate breeder it wasnt 1 star. He had no knowledge of health issues and said the puppy had no worms but when i got him checked he had round worm. German Shepherd Breed Review by sophia German shepherds are very loyal. They are caring and aggressive in a good way Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by sophia German shepherds are very loyal. Can't beat the loyalty and intelligence these dogs offer. German Shepherd learn's and understand fast. He is a wunderful Familydog. But you must train all the time and be a true companion! I cannot stress enough how thankful I am to have found the love of my life, thanks Donna! She is truly a blessing. Her temperament is so submissive it's unbelievable. My family owns two miniature poodles as well, and those two little poodles eat and drink out of her bowls and even boss my loveable 80 pound German Shepherd around and all she does is lower her ears and allow those little ones to do it. If you're looking for a loveable active dog to add to your family I recommend a German Shepherd from greenfield puppies percent. My puppy loves to play fetch and play ball all day everyday so be prepared to give your dog the attention it needs , these dogs are trained to be k9 dogs after all so keep that in mind. Words cannot possibly begin to express how thankful I am to donna and greenfield puppies for connecting me with my life long friend, I am forever grateful. Thank you so, so, much. I definitely recommend getting one that is young as they will bond with you quickly and I find its the easiest to train from a very young age, reinforcing all training as they grow. I socialized Augustus from the start at 8 weeks, taking him to festivals, socials, and family and family get togethers. I encouraged my friends, family, and strangers to pet him all over, pick his paws up, and just be personal. This is the best way to make your shepherd comfortable with others and makes for a better friendly face in public and your home. I live in a townhouse, with not much of a back yard, so we visit a bunch of parks a few times through the week to keep him active. Bottom-line, GSDs are great friends and an excellent choice. I find that Augustus mirrors my own personality and is very comfortable and relaxed in an array or circumstances and companies. Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by sandra Bash the best dog you can possibly own my Shepard schultz is the best dog so smart everyday he amazes me with the things he does i will never own any other breed Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by Doreen Baldridge Great stud. Kebow Von der bleuhaus. Great mom Huyard queen Ronda. Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by rosa bodine i currently own a anitolian shepherd and she is the smartest sweetest most lovable pet i have ever owned. She very playful and loyal. Not only is she my best friend but shes a member of our family. This is why my family and I have decided to get another Shepherd Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by Dave We have had Jessie for 10 months and find her extremely active, inquisitive, intelligent playful and smart. A GSD will keep you on your toes and give you no peace. They are always up to something. I have the perfect lifestyle for these dogs. I jog, hike, bike, and enjoy sports. Also, they are so beautiful. Hes great with kids of all ages and is super playful. Just be careful this guy is 7 months old and about pounds n hes still got a long time to grow ahead of him, but i will say super protective and very helpful especially once he gets to full size Rating: German Shepherd Breed Review by Austin Cowan They are all around great dogs. They have a good temperament are great for families; great with kids and other dogs. They listen well if trained and really are one of my favorite breeds to own. He is now 2 years old, and is the most wonderful dog I have owned. He is super alert and does very well with my kids. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

This comes at no extra cost to you. At three months of age, Golden Retriever puppies get a little more confident, mischievous, and, of course, bigger! As a puppy parent, you might have lots of questions about your three-month-old Golden. Is this normal? Am I handling this the right way? Should I be doing something differently? At three months old, a puppy is feeling more settled in their new home. They are experts at identifying patterns and routines, and are understanding how things work around the house. You may notice increased confidence and curiosity around the house, as exploration can be fun for sixteen-week-old Golden Retrievers. This confidence boost may also come with more antics, like shredding the toilet paper in the bathroom and pulling down your nice throw pillows to wrestle with. You might observe that your three-month-old puppy has more energy than they did last month, as well. At this age, they also have better control of their bodies and are more coordinated, as opposed to when they were a two-month-old puppy. You may notice that they are running faster, jumping higher, and tackling obstacles like stairs. At three months old, a pup is still in the critical socialization window. What your puppy learns and experiences between three and sixteen weeks of age helps set a precedent for the rest of their life. Providing them with positive educational experiences with the sights, sounds, and experiences they will encounter as an adult dog is extremely important during this time. Avoid scary and stressful experiences with a three-month-old Golden Retriever puppy , as those can leave lasting negative associations resulting in a fearful or anxious dog. Remember that a pup at this age is still so young and needs lots of patient guidance as they grow into their adult self. Three-Month-Old Golden Retriever Puppy Size Most three-month-old Goldens will weigh between 15 and 35 pounds, but each puppy is a unique individual so there could be some that fall outside that range. Female puppies tend to be smaller than males, but there are exceptions to that rule. They will be growing a lot this month, so you may notice those legs getting longer by the day! Their cute little snout may also get a little longer as they develop. Golden Retrievers can have a variety of builds and sizes, so your vet can help you make sure that your puppy is at an appropriate weight if you have any concerns. With all that growing comes the need for a lot of sleep. Sixteen-week-old Golden Retrievers need about 18 hours of sleep a day. As much as possible, let your puppy sleep as much as they choose. At this age, they may not always be the best at settling themselves down for a nap even though they really need rest. Sometimes puppies can get overly tired and become super wild and bitey — puppy tornado mode! This is when your puppy needs you to step in and help them get the sleep they need. Utilizing a crate or pen is super helpful for this as it limits their options and promotes settling in for a nap. Set up the crate or pen so it has a comfy place for them to snooze. You can also offer them something like a bully stick or a stuffed kong to work on while they drift off to sleep. Many three-month-old puppies do well when the crate is covered, which cuts down on visual stimulation. You can also drape an old bed sheet over the panels of a pen to give the same effect. If your puppy struggles to settle, you can sit near their crate or pen, as your presence is a comfort to them. If you notice your pup curling up for a nap, you can pick them up and put them in their pen or crate. Behavior issues like excessive chewing , biting , barking and just general hyperactivity can come from lack of sleep. Ensuring that your puppy gets enough uninterrupted sleep is very important for their physical, mental, and behavioral wellbeing. If you got your puppy when they were two months of age, you may now notice that your three-month-old Golden seems to have more energy. With all that puppy energy, you might think that you need to wear your puppy out with exercise. While puppies certainly do need exercise, be careful not to overdo it. Exercise should be guided by the puppy. That means letting them set the pace and duration of exercise. Three-month-old Golden Retrievers do not yet have the physical and mental stamina for structured exercise like long leashed walks. Instead, short, easygoing walks are great at this stage. Think of walks more as adventures! Instead of trying to walk a certain route or distance, set an amount of time for the walk. Ten to twenty minutes is probably sufficient at this age. Free play is also a great outlet for exercise for three-month-old Golden Retrievers. Indoor playtime with toys is also a fun way for active pups to burn some of that puppy energy. Avoid long games of fetch, as the repetitive nature of the game can be hard on their growing bodies. Finally, getting your puppy out in nature is a great way to get them some exercise while also providing lots of mental stimulation. Historically, Golden Retrievers were bred to spend a lot of time outdoors in the fields with their owners. Our modern-day Goldens still absolutely adore getting outside in nature, and puppies are no exception. I recommend putting your puppy on a well-fitting, non-restrictive harness , and a fifteen or twenty feet biothane long line. This longer leash allows your puppy to explore more freely and makes pulling the leash less likely. Keep these outings short, and let your puppy take breaks as needed. It sounds a bit silly, but it can be easy to forget that a puppy is not a human! Keeping this in mind helps you stay patient as you teach your new best friend the ways of the world. One of the most important things for a puppy to learn is how to be alone. Even if you work from home, you have to run errands, hang out with friends and family, and go to doctor appointments. Using a crate or pen, or gating off a small space, is invaluable, as leaving a three-month-old Golden Retriever loose in your house would likely be a disaster! This e-book walks you through all the steps to teach your puppy how to be comfortable with confinement and being left home alone. Potty training will also be an ongoing process, so keep at it with your puppy this month. Just a few minutes every day is enough to start building some great skills with your puppy. You may also notice that some days your puppy has more energy, and on other days they are more relaxed. With their growing bodies comes a bigger appetite! Most three-month-old Golden Retrievers eat about two cups of food a day, split over three meals. As always, each puppy is a unique individual and so some puppies may eat more or less than that amount each day. Some days your puppy may eat all their food, and some days they may leave a little in the bowl, though Goldens are known to be chowhounds so your puppy might scarf down each and every meal. It can be really fun for both you and your puppy to feed meals in more creative ways. There are lots of toys available that make mealtime more mentally and physically enriching. You have to feed your puppy, so why not burn some puppy energy in the process! Here are some favorites:. In this adorable print captured by John Daniels, we are introduced to a fluffy bundle of joy that will melt your heart. This week-old Golden Retriever puppy is the epitome of cuteness and mischief combined. With his innocent eyes and playful demeanor, it's hard not to fall head over paws for this little furball. Sitting alone inside a studio with a plain white background, he seems to be posing like a true professional model. Who knew puppies could have such star power? This young juvenile pup represents everything we love about dogs - their loyalty, affectionate nature, and endless capacity for fun. With his golden coat shimmering under the studio lights, he embodies the beauty of his breed. Whether you're a dog lover or simply in need of some instant happiness, this print is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Just one look at JD's irresistible charm will make all your worries disappear. So go ahead and let this picture brighten up your day! Hang it on your wall or gift it to someone who needs an extra dose of cheerfulness in their life. Because when it comes to pure joy and unconditional love, nothing beats the company of our furry friends like JD! In Stock - Available Now! Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart. At what age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? As larger dogs, Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to reach their full weight. Most Golden Retrievers will be close to their adult height and weight around a year of age but may need one more year to fill out their chest fully. A six-month-old male Golden Retriever will weigh between 35 to 45 pounds, while their female counterpart will weigh around 30 to 35 pounds at the same age. As for their height, most Golden Retrievers will still need another three to six months to reach their adult height. At this age, they will likely be a few inches away from their adult height, which ranges from .Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on bonding with your pet, puppy-proofing your home, training, microchips, and more! How much bigger will my Golden Retriever get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much bigger your Golden Retriever will get. If they are less than a year old, they still need more time to reach their full adult size. Many Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to completely fill out, though their weight at one year old is usually close to their full adult weight. A puppy is rarely larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you a general idea of their maximum weight. If their paws still look large or oversized next to their body and legs, they are probably still filling out and have some growing left to do, as this is a classic sign of adolescence in canines. What is the size of a full-grown Golden Retriever? As adults, Golden Retrievers will appear overall symmetrical and have a powerful body hidden beneath beautiful, golden fur. Golden Retrievers are stunning, sunny dogs that easily steal our hearts. Unfortunately, as a purebred dog breed, they are more susceptible to genetic diseases, which can compromise their lifespan and quality of life. However, many genetic disorders can be treated or prevented with regular veterinary care. Remember that prevention is almost always easier and less expensive than treatment. Your veterinarian may recommend a large-breed growth food to your Golden Retriever puppy to support their growth rate which can help prevent or decrease the severity of hip dysplasia in adulthood. According to the Veterinary Centers of America , Golden Retrievers are also more prone to gaining excess weight. Golden Retrievers are also susceptible to various genetic health disorders, such as oral tumors and aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is most commonly found in large, purebred dogs, including Golden Retrievers, and occurs when the aortic valves to the heart narrow. Aortic stenosis causes the body to struggle to pump blood through the valve, creating additional stress on the body. If untreated, aortic stenosis can lead to muscle failure and even fatality. However, veterinarians can treat many genetic diseases like aortic stenosis and oral tumors through surgery and medication. Even with proper prevention and wellness care, necessary veterinary visits can be expensive, with many treatments costing thousands of dollars. Out of over 20, pet parents surveyed , only .The last thing you should be focused on when the worst happens is how to finance a needed surgery or treatment for your beloved pet. This is where pet insurance comes in. Just like people, dogs are living longer lives and will need additional veterinary care to maintain a happy quality of life. Let pet insurance help you with these costs should the worst happen to your dog. Wellness plans are also available as an add-on to help with the ongoing costs of regular veterinary care , like x-rays and exams. Act now and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your Golden Retriever is covered should anything happen. Compare top Golden Retriever pet insurance plans side-by-side with Pawlicy Advisor today! Key Takeaways On average, male Golden Retrievers weigh pounds and females weigh pounds. At full height, Goldens stand between .Although puppies groww extremely fast, the Golden Retriever breed can take as long as 2 years to reach full maturity. Owners should keep an eye on their Golden Retriever's diet because they are very prone to obesity. Pet insurance helps cover the cost of care necessary to give your Goldie a happy, healthy life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Sentimental and practical, personalised photo mugs make perfect gifts for loved ones, friends or work colleagues Canvas Print Canvas Prints add colour, depth and texture to any space. 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Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! Raising a puppy to adulthood is a great way to help build a deep, life-long bond with your dog. Tracking the growth of your Golden Retriever from puppyhood to young adult is a hallmark responsibility of a good dog owner. Keeping track of the growth of your puppy will help you to make sure that your puppy is growing as he or she should. Remember that every puppy is a unique individual, however, there are standards you will want to follow to ensure your puppy gets the best start in his or her life with you. And beyond that, there are working-class dog lines and show dog lines, which also impact the typical appearance and weight of the individual dog. Regardless of which you have, this guide can be used for all of them. Just keep in mind the following: American Golden Retrievers tend to have a leaner appearance than British Golden Retrievers and tend to weigh slightly less as well. Conversely, British Golden Retrievers tend to be stockier and more muscular than American Golden Retrievers and tend to weigh towards the upper end of the weight range as well. Canadian Golden Retrievers tend to be taller than both American and British Golden Retrievers, but with shorter, less feathery coats. Throughout each of the development stages, careful and appropriate handling will help them to grow into healthy, confident adult dogs. But even before your puppy is born, you can begin tracking information. That alone will give you a general approximation of what to expect when your puppy is an adult, as well as the initial health of your puppy. When born, a Golden Retriever puppy usually weighs between 14 to 16 ounces. While eight puppies in a litter are average, typical litters range from four to twelve puppies. First-born puppies tend to be the largest in the litter, while the last-born puppy tends to be the smallest in the litter. Sometimes, the smallest puppy is noticeably smaller than the rest of the litter. They start out unable to walk, instead of squirming around and then eventually crawling to be able to nurse. They are born with their ears and eyes closed; their only senses are taste, touch, and smell. They rely on mom to keep them clean, warm, and fed. Sometimes, first-time moms might need a bit of guidance to take care of the puppies, especially if there is a runt in the litter. She will also need some extra food, to ensure she has enough nutrition not just for herself, but also for the puppies she is nursing. Some moms will instinctively ignore the runt. If that happens, it is up to the humans to ensure that the puppy is being fed. Towards days 10 through 14, the eyes and ears will open up, baby teeth will erupt, and by the end of the third week, the puppies should be walking — albeit unsteadily — and beginning to explore their world. Stage 2: Socialization, 3 Weeks to 3 Months This is a truly transformative stage in puppy development. At the beginning of this stage, they are shakily beginning to try to walk. By the end of this stage, these little bundles of energy will run and play until they are ready to drop from self-induced exhaustion. As the puppies begin to walk, they will also begin to play with each other. They should be allowed to play as much as they want. This early socialization is critical so that your puppy learns all the fundamentals of interacting with other dogs. They learn important skills such as bite inhibition and can be very vocal during play. This will bolster the nutrition that mom is providing through nursing. This also allows the puppies to begin self-weaning. At first, they will begin to realize that their little tummies feel fuller when they eat the wet food, rather than strictly being nourished by their mom. Assuming mom allows you to handle the puppies, you should interact and socialize with them. Help them get used to being touched; stroke their tiny paws, rub their ears. These will help lay the foundation for future grooming. Check the package for any instructions about moistening the kibble for the puppies, as well as how much to feed and how often to feed. New puppy owners — especially those who are first-time puppy-raisers — tend to overfeed their puppy. While a roly-poly fat puppy can look ever-so-cute — they tend to grow up into overweight adults, putting excess strain on their joints. Always, always ensure your puppy has access to fresh drinking water. Use treats wisely; it is far too easy to give that cute puppy a few treats too many! Keeping mom and the puppies together has many benefits, even if mom is done nursing the puppies. You can begin housetraining the puppy, letting mom set the example. It is best if you work with each puppy individually for a few minutes at a time, several times a day. Keep your rules and commands consistent, and let the puppy learn each command one at a time. It is also an appropriate time to begin socializing the puppy with other people, animals, and experiences such as car rides, and sounds such as hair dryers, vacuum cleaners, and mowers. It is very important to introduce new experiences to the puppy in a manner that is supportive so that the puppy develops the sensations of enjoyment and curiosity when experiencing anything new. However, this does not mean taking the puppy to a pet store or to a dog park. Always wait to bring your puppy to such places until after the puppy has been fully vaccinated, especially for parvo. Your vet will guide you on this. If you must take your puppy to a pet store or anywhere that other dogs frequent, carry the puppy to minimize the risk of parvo, and do not allow the puppy to physically interact with other people or dogs. This is also the time for most puppies to receive their first vaccinations. Some breeders will begin sending the puppies to their new families at this age, but some breeders will wait until the puppy is closer to 12 weeks of age. Neither is necessarily wrong, but there is mounting evidence that puppies who remain with the mom and littermates to at least weeks of age benefit from this additional socialization period. There is evidence that puppies who are separated at an early age are more likely to have issues with appropriate interaction with other dogs as they become adults. Tracking the growth of your Golden Retriever from puppyhood to young adulthood is a hallmark responsibility of a good dog owner. The second three months in the life of your puppy is when most Golden Retrievers grow the fastest. Additional vaccinations are given around weeks of age. Your veterinarian will know which are appropriate for your puppy, but one of the most common vaccinations at this age is for parvovirus. Parvovirus is very contagious and frequently lethal to puppies, so this is not a vaccination to be skipped. The parvovirus vaccination is typically given as a combined vaccination, along with distemper, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. That combined shot is called DHHP. Other changes are happening on the inside as well. Your puppy will want to chew on just about everything as they lose their baby teeth, and the permanent teeth erupt. Provide your puppy with appropriate toys for teething puppies, so that they are less likely to destroy other items — like your favorite sneakers. Housetraining, also known as housebreaking, or potty-training , is one of the most make-or-break training activities you can do with your puppy. It may take several weeks before your puppy is reliably housetrained, and the tips for successful housetraining are worthy of an article all on its own. This is also a good time to talk to your veterinarian about spaying or neutering your puppy. Keep in mind, that puppies that are spayed or neutered tend to grow a bit taller than those who are not spayed or neutered. That is because sex hormones inhibit growth hormones. By three months of age, you should begin to practice grooming. Gently brush your puppy, but do not shave your puppy. Teach your puppy to accept being petted and touched everywhere. Gently open his or her mouth to look at the teeth, and if you are able, use a puppy toothbrush to clean the teeth daily. Also spend time handling the paws, as your puppy will eventually need to be accustomed to nail trims. Take care when exposing your puppy to new experiences. Do your best to ensure that every interaction is as positive as possible. There are usually two fear periods; typically one in the third month and another towards the end of the fifth month. Training should be an activity that you do at least daily, and ideally, several times a day. Training should be in very short sessions, appropriate to the attention span of your puppy. Every session should be fun and end on a good note. Gradually add on additional commands as your puppy demonstrates that they are ready for new skills. Stage 4: Sexual Maturity, 6 months to 1 year Golden Retrievers typically reach sexual maturity soon at, or soon after, they are six months old. For females, this means having heat cycles , roughly every six months. Both males and females , begin to exhibit mating behavior, which may include frequent urination to mark their territories. Many Golden Retriever puppies tend to develop separation anxiety around the eight-month mark. During this time, your Golden Retriever will also develop a desire to figure out their place within the family pecking order — and this may include willful disobedience of commands, even those they know well. Be consistent, fair, and firm when asking your Golden Retriever to perform your commands. If your dog has not been spayed or neutered, this rebellious stage may be worse. There are other physical changes going on as well. Your Golden Retriever may be a very leggy six-month-old, but he will grow into those legs. But until he does, he may be a bit clumsy and even accident-prone. Likewise, the nose and ears may seem overly large, but he will grow into those long floppy ears as well. It can be very tempting to over-exercise your puppy during this period because they will seem to have unlimited energy. However, this period of rapid growth puts strain on their bones and joints, so avoid over-exercising your puppy, and avoid high jumping. One of the last things you want to have to happen is for your Golden Retriever puppy to damage its canine cruciate ligament and to require surgery as a result. They have a few more months of where they will fill out, but they have generally reached their full height when they turn one year old. They pretty much look exactly like they will for the rest of their adult years. Mentally, however, most Golden Retrievers will still exhibit puppy-like excitement and energy for a few more years. When your dog — who is no longer a puppy — is two years old, you can have their hips checked for hip dysplasia by your vet. This is especially important to know if you are considering taking your dog on very long hikes, training for the agility ring, or breeding your dog in the future. It is also important to keep your dog at the appropriate weight, especially if they are prone to hip dysplasia. You should be able to feel the ribs of your dog, but not see the ribs under that fluffy coat. Golden Retrievers typically love to eat as do most dogs but are prone to overeating if allowed to by their owners. Carrying excess weight creates or exacerbates numerous health issues. These can include arthritis, diabetes, cancer, heart health, joint and bone health, kidney and liver failure, and high blood pressure. Show dogs also tend to be heavier than working dog lines. Weight: Adult male Golden Retrievers should weigh in at 65 to 75 pounds, while females should weigh in at 55 to 65 pounds. Height: Adult male Golden Retriever should measure between 23 to 24 inches at the withers. Females should measure .Height is more important than weight when looking at the AKC breed standard, but weight in relation to height indicates the overall fitness of your dog. Keep in mind, that these charts are guidelines. Insufficient growth may be due to something as serious as a genetic defect, or something as easily treatable and correctable as roundworms. Growing too quickly may be due to overfeeding — and that is equally dangerous for the long-term health of your dog. By Tom Massey Mar 02, Adopting a golden retriever is one of the best decisions you can make. These loving dogs are constantly praised for their gentle and calm, yet playful nature, making them perfect dogs for all walks of life and types of families. So when you do finally bring your Golden Retriever puppy home, you want to do everything you can to give them a long and healthy life for years to come. This is a wide range, so keep in mind that the weight of your Retriever will vary depending on genetic factors and sex. For example, female Golden Retrievers will weigh closer to 55 pounds while Golden Retriever males are heavier and will weigh closer to 75 pounds. Females also typically reach their full size by their first birthday, while males may continue growing through their second year. You can usually tell the size males and females will be based on what their parents look like, which is why Snowy Pines encourages meeting the parents or browsing through their photos and biographies online. Then, calculate 1. What to Expect: This age is crucial for mother-puppy bonding since he will depend on his mother for food, cleaning, and socialization. Image Source Weeks months Golden Retriever Male Weight: Between 8 to 12 weeks, your male puppy will average between 10 to 22 pounds. Golden Retriever Female Weight: Although females will grow to be smaller than males, they are typically around the same weight at this age group. The puppies become very playful, curious, and discover their voices little by little. Introductory training like house training is essential. Socialization is also important, which is why Snowy Pines ensures that all puppies stay with their littermates until adoption. For female puppies, 6 months is a little over the halfway point to their full-size, and males are essentially smaller versions of their adult bodies. Remember, at this age, you can multiply by two to determine their adult weight! What to Expect: Socialization is still crucial at this age, and more intense training can also begin. The puppy should also be kept in happy and safe environments, as any exposure to something fearful at this age may impact him long-term. This is entirely normal: Think of your puppy as a teenager who is going through adolescence and waiting for the rest of his body to catch up. They may get territorial and challenge you and other pets for dominance. Most Golden Retrievers will be fully grown by 24 months old, although this varies. Golden Retriever Female Weight: In most cases, females are finished growing before 16 to 24 months. Whatever their nature is like at the to month mark is likely what it will be throughout their adult life. They are loyal, friendly, and calm, making them the perfect companion for small and large families alike. However, Goldens are susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases that are common in bigger breeds that are typically caused by overfeeding, stunted or accelerated growth, and genetic issues. One of the most common diseases that goldens experience is Osteochondritis dissecans OCD. OCD is a developmental disease that affects large-breed dogs because of the accelerated growth they experience. It is an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal cartilage development on the end of a bone in the joint. This can lead to joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia which commonly appears in the elbow, hip, and knee. Image Source The good news is that, although larger breeds like golden retrievers are prone to joint issues like this, you may be able to help prevent it through proper practice. OCD is a specific disease that is more common in dogs that receive too much energy and calcium in their diets. Other common factors are genetics, rapid growth, and hormonal factors. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, and all that extra weight can leave your puppy with skeletal abnormalities that put too much weight on joints. Another way to avoid accidentally stunted or accelerated growth is to ensure your golden retriever puppy is getting fed appropriately and receiving the right amount of calories. Image Source Months Between 2 and 4 months old, your puppy should eat 4 times per day with 2 ounces per meal. This will add up to 7 to 9 ounces per day, depending on how much he willingly eats. Keep him on puppy food through his first year before switching to young adult food. They must receive regular exercise every day. However, this depends on their age. As previously covered, the more your puppy grows, the more susceptible to common diseases like joint problems. Breeders with years of experience, like the team at Snowy Pines, work hard to keep pure bloodlines so that all of the parents and their litters are as healthy as they can be, which helps guarantee a lifetime full of happiness without any issue. Share on. Not all goldens will grow to the same size and at the same rate. The size of the parents is always a good indicator of whether your dog will be above or below average in size. However, while natural variation is nothing to worry about, stunted growth or accelerated growth is. If a golden retriever puppy is malnourished or suffering from an unidentified medical condition usually hookworm or ringworm , their natural growth can be compromised. This can lead to serious medical issues in later life, as it can leave them with weak bones, weak muscles, and a weak immune system, as well as a tendency to develop both skin and digestive issues. Growing too quickly, largely as a result of overfeeding, can also pose a major health risk. As well as leading to obesity, carrying too much weight at the development stage can leave your golden retriever with skeletal abnormalities, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis , a condition that affects the joints. With these tips, you will help fight off those genetic health disorders as well. Appropriate Diet Start off by speaking to your vet for guidance on foods to use for the different life stages. At the very least, you will need a nutritionally complete and balanced diet made for large breeds. Good food will help your pup gain the right amount of weight, look healthy, and have enough energy. Proper exercise will build their muscle and bone strength, prevent obesity, increase their agility, stop destructive behavior, and help them release pent-up energy. Vaccines will help to prevent infectious diseases such as hepatitis, parvovirus, rabies, and distemper, all of which could affect the growth and overall health of your puppy. This will be a plus for her overall health. It would also be great to have your vet do routine health checks on your puppy. This way, no issue will go unnoticed, and treatment can be administered early for better outcomes. A shiny coat and bright eyes are a plus. Alternatively, if you notice rapid weight gain or loss, unusual bumps and lumps on their skin, digestive issues, changes in behavior, and visual or hearing complications, take your dog to the vet right away. Compared to other breeds, Golden Retrievers, especially females, grow pretty quickly. Males could take up to 18 months to achieve the same milestone. However, both will still need an additional year to fill out the chest fully. Adult height, on the other hand, will be reached between 9 and 12 months. As always, females will get there a bit faster than males. You can get a rough idea of how big your golden retriever will grow by first studying the parents. Take note of the size that both of the parents and previous litters have had. Rarely will a puppy grow larger than its parents, so the measurements you gather will give you a better idea of how tall and heavy your golden retriever will get. Full-grown, healthy, male golden retrievers have a height of between 22 and 24 inches while the females are 20 to 22 inches tall. In terms of height and body structure, the Canadian golden retriever has no rival. Spaying and neutering specifically affect the development of bones and also ligament and tendon strength. In fact, some studies report higher incidences of cranial cruciate ligament tears and hip dysplasia among golden retrievers that went through this procedure. Therefore, consult your vet when deciding if and when to spay or neuter your dog. The weight of your golden retriever is a good indication of their healthy development. While male and female Goldens will have different weights and show goldens tend to be heavier than working goldens, overall, they should be hitting the weights listed in the growth and weight chart above. If your dog is not hitting these milestones, consult your vet about malnutrition, possibly caused by worms, and excessive golden retriever growth, which is often the result of overfeeding. If you feel like your pooch is missing any of them, again, it is time to consult your vet. In general, good nutrition and a loving home is a recipe for a happy and healthy golden retriever. If you want to know more about your golden retriever, you can do a DNA test, too. You can choose one of the tests below:.

The Pughasa is a very popular dog and a popular choice for households, but as with any other dog breed, there are a few disease risks you should be aware of. Because crossing different breeds can result in a more variable gene pool, some inherited disorders can be passed on that would not otherwise be present. This disease occurs when blood stops flowing properly, cutting off the blood supply to the bones in the dog's hind legs. Without blood supply, the bones begin to die and begin to degenerate. Symptoms of this condition include a lame hind leg, pain and difficulty walking. Another common condition in the Pug Lhasa Apso mix is cataract disease. Cataracts are a type of clouding of the lens of the eye that can be caused by diabetes, glaucoma or injury. Sometimes the cause is uncertain, although it can be partially inherited. A characteristic symptom of this condition is eye clouding, which can also affect vision. There are also some more common problem that occur in Pughasa, such as respiratory problems and respiratory infections, which are accompanied by unstable breathing and coughing symptoms. Digestive problems are also possible, especially in older dogs that tend to develop allergies and intolerances to certain foods. What does this mixed breed look like? The coat of the Pug and Lhasa Apso mixed breed is short and dense, but it is very soft and shiny. There is no undercoat and it tends to shed mechanics and water well. The color of the coat varies depending on the puppy, although many different colors of black, gray, brown and white can be expected. They may have a speckled or spotted pattern that is generally unique and adds a touch of mysticism. It is common for these dogs to have a "brow crown", meaning that they have darker hair above the head and most keep it hidden. In some cases, spreading coloring can also be seen on the legs and back, creating a unique look. What are breed characteristics of this mix dog? The Pughasa is a small to medium sized dog that is most popular for its good looks and golden brown coat. He has a round and compact face with lively, button-like eyes. His body is sturdy and strong, and his legs are relatively short. The height at withers is on average between 30 and 36 cm and the weight between 4 and 8 kg. Fur length. This mix brings together the distinct traits and characteristics of both breeds, resulting in a dog that is truly one-of-a-kind. The purpose behind mixing these two breeds is to combine their desirable qualities and create a companion dog that embodies the best of both worlds. The Pug Lhasa Apso mix is a deliberate effort to create a dog with a unique appearance, temperament, and personality. The Pug Lhasa Apso mix inherits a variety of traits from both parent breeds. They often have a compact and sturdy build, similar to the Pug, with a curly tail and a charming, wrinkled face. Their coat can vary depending on the dominant genes, ranging from shorter and smoother like a Pug to longer and more flowing like a Lhasa Apso. Personality Traits and Temperament In terms of temperament, the Pug Lhasa Apso mix can exhibit a delightful combination of playfulness, affection, and independence. They are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them great companions for families and individuals of all ages. They often display loyalty and love towards their human family members, and their alertness inherited from the Lhasa Apso makes them excellent watchdogs. The Pug Lhasa Apso mix is a versatile and adaptable breed, fitting well into various living environments, whether it be an apartment or a larger home. Their moderate exercise needs make them suitable for individuals or families with varying activity levels. Understanding the Pug Lhasa Apso mix involves appreciating the unique qualities this mix brings together. Their playful and elegant nature, combined with their adaptability and affectionate personality, make them a beloved choice for many dog enthusiasts. In the next sections of this blog post, we will explore their personality traits and temperament, appearance and physical traits, exercise and training needs, health considerations, grooming requirements, and living with a Pug Lhasa Apso mix. Stay tuned to discover more about these adorable and captivating companions! The Pug Lhasa Apso mix is generally a small to medium-sized dog. Their size can vary depending on the genetic influence of the parent breeds. On average, they stand about 10 to 14 inches 25 to 35 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh between 10 to 20 pounds 4. In terms of build, the Pug Lhasa Apso mix typically has a compact and sturdy body structure. They have a relatively broad chest, short legs, and a level topline. This mix often inherits the adorable curly tail from the Pug, which adds to their overall charm. Exercise and Training Needs The Pug Lhasa Apso mix has moderate exercise requirements that can be met through a combination of physical activities and mental stimulation. Understanding their exercise and training needs is crucial for ensuring their overall well-being and happiness. Despite their small to medium size, the Pug Lhasa Apso mix benefits from regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight, mental stimulation, and overall fitness. Daily walks, playtime in a secure area, and interactive toys are all great ways to fulfill their exercise needs. On average, aim for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise each day. Some Pug Lhasa Apso mixes may require more exercise, while others may be content with slightly less. Keep in mind that this mix is prone to overheating due to their short muzzle inherited from the Pug. Exercise them during cooler parts of the day, provide access to shade and fresh water, and be mindful of their breathing and comfort level during physical activities. Health Considerations While mixed breeds often benefit from genetic diversity, they may still inherit certain health conditions from their parent breeds. This condition affects their breathing and can lead to respiratory difficulties. Keep an eye out for symptoms such as snorting, snoring, wheezing, and excessive panting, especially during physical activity or in hot weather. Provide a cool and well-ventilated environment, avoid excessive exertion, and consult with a veterinarian for guidance on managing brachycephalic-related issues. Eye Problems Both the Pug and Lhasa Apso breeds are prone to certain eye conditions, which may also affect the mix. Common eye problems include progressive retinal atrophy PRA , dry eye keratoconjunctivitis sicca , cataracts, and corneal ulcers. Regular eye examinations by a veterinarian and proper eye care, such as keeping the eyes clean and free from irritants, are essential to monitor and prevent potential eye issues. Allergies Allergies can affect the Pug Lhasa Apso mix, just as they can in any dog. These allergies can be caused by environmental factors such as pollen, dust mites, or certain chemicals , food allergies, or flea bites. Keep an eye out for symptoms such as itching, skin irritations, excessive licking or chewing, and recurrent ear infections. If you suspect your Pug Lhasa Apso mix has allergies, consult with a veterinarian who can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate management strategies. Dental Health Both the Pug and Lhasa Apso breeds are prone to dental issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Good dental hygiene is crucial for their overall health and can help prevent potential dental problems. Regular veterinary care, a nutritious diet, and a proactive approach to their well-being are key to ensuring a happy and healthy life for your Pug Lhasa Apso mix. Grooming and Maintenance The Pug Lhasa Apso mix has a coat that can vary in length and texture, requiring regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Regular brushing helps prevent matting and tangles, especially for those with longer coats. Pay special attention to areas such as the ears, tail, and underbelly. Regular nail trims, teeth brushing, and ear cleaning are essential parts of their grooming routine. By dedicating time and attention to their grooming needs, you can help keep your Pug Lhasa Apso mix looking and feeling great. Conclusion Throughout this blog post, we have explored various aspects of understanding and living with a Pug Lhasa Apso mix, including their unique appearance, temperament, exercise and training needs, health considerations, and grooming requirements. This mixed breed brings together the best of both parent breeds, resulting in a loyal, affectionate, and adaptable companion. By understanding their characteristics and providing the necessary care and attention, you can experience the joy and fulfillment that comes with sharing your life with these adorable and captivating mixed breed dogs. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards, Lhasa Pug Description The Pughasa is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Lhasa Apso and the Pug. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He's a Pughasa—his mom was the Lhasa and his dad a black Pug. Deuce is smart, funny and has a very cuddly disposition. He's very loyal, has fun socializing with other dogs and going to the doggy day spa to be pampered. Deuce enjoys his walks and potty trained very well. We got him at 4 weeks and he was trained in the first few days!! We definitely look forward to having another one someday! She also has her own jacket. She likes to cruise around the neighborhood and show off to her friends. Fergie is a true performer and loves attention. At almost 1 year old, she has grown to a pound fun-loving princess. She has the personality of her daddy Pug along with his stocky build. She has the hair of her mommy Lhasa Apso and her sweet disposition. This is definitely a wonderful mix. If a Lhasa Apso Mix takes after their Lhasa Apso parent, they will be a small, affectionate companion dog. They thrive on attention and tend to have big personalities. The Lhasa Apso is an intelligent dog with a lot of confidence and a big personality with a comical twist. Because they love attention, they sometimes do comedic and silly things to get it. In addition to amusing their families, they also love to cuddle and spend time around them. These little dogs tend to get along well with children and other pets. They tend to be more reserved with strangers, but will warm up once introduced. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a similar temperament from a Lhasa Apso Mix. You can also meet the mother in person to see what her temperament is like and the behavior she is modeling for her pups. Lhasa Apsos are highly adaptable dogs that do well in apartments as well as larger homes. They are sensitive to heat and very cold temperatures. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and can be prone to developing separation anxiety. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect a Lhasa Apso Mix to be as well. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed because they will introduce their own quirks that you will want to be aware of. From the Lhasa Apso side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Lhasa Apso Mix include cherry eye, dry eye, kidney dysfunction, progressive retinal atrophy, and hip dysplasia. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Lhasa Apsos are intelligent dogs. They pick up on things quickly, which makes them highly trainable. But, they tend to be eager to please when it suits them and they can have a stubborn streak. This can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners. The other parent breed could make a Lhasa Apso Mix easier or more difficult to train. There are also many benefits of puppy training classes aside from training, so they tend to be a good idea anyway. A Lhasa Apso Mix can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both of them. A long clip needs daily brushing, bathing every two weeks, and grooming every weeks. Your dog groomer will be able to help take care of some of this during visits, but you will still need to do maintenance between visits at home. Cutting nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Daily brushing with dog-friendly toothpaste and cleanings at the vet as needed helps prevent dental diseases later in life. Lhasa Apsos sit in a moderate activity range. Daily walks plus some extra activities throughout the day are usually enough for them. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they are not overheating or overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you and be prepared to carry them if you need to. If the other parent breed also sits in a moderate activity range, then you can expect the same from a Lhasa Apso Mix. If the other parent breed is lower or higher energy, then you will need to be prepared for that potential in a mix. Fully-grown Lhasa Apsos usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. A Lhasa Apso generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span in a Lhasa Apso Mix. Currently, we do not have any Lhasa Apso Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Lhasa Apso Mix puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. Living with a Pughasa Temperament: The Pughasa has very good temperament. Family Dog: The Pughasa makes a wonderful family dog. They love children. Shedding: The coat type of the Pughasa will determine how much they shed. Dog with the more Pug-like coat tend to shed more. Grooming: The Pughasa should be groomed every couple of months. Training: The Pughasa is not hard to potty train. Behavior: The Pughasa is a loyal, loving, caring, funny, very smart little dog. Barking: The Pughasa has a big bark for a little dog. Exercise: The Pughasa should be walked daily. Living Conditions: The Pughasa can make a good apartment dog provided they are given plenty of exercise. Pughasa Appearance Size: The Pughasa has an average weight of about 22 pounds. Companionship: The Pughasa makes a great lap dog. Tail: The tail of the Pughasa curls right up like a Pug's. Color: The coat of the Pughasa can be fawn colored or black with white spots the feet. Coat: The Pughasa can have shorter hair like the Pug or a longer, softer coat but not as long as a Lhasa Aspso. Pughasa Facts Characteristics: The Pughasa tends to snore. They do better on walks with a harness and like to pick up things to have in their mouths when they are outside. Pughasa Health Health: The Pughasa has good overall health. The may have to have their anal glands expressed every month and a half to two months. Litter Size: The average litter size of the Pughasa is 4 to 6 pups. We are dedicated to providing the most accurate information possible about each breed. Most Popular Breeds.

For more information, go to www. Target does not represent or warrant that this information is accurate or complete. On occasion, manufacturers may modify their items and update their labels. We recommend that you do not rely solely on the information presented. If you have a specific question about this item, you may consult the item's label, contact the manufacturer directly or call Target Guest Services at .Description This two-room design puppy whelping box from PawHut provides a comfortable environment for a new mother dog, who can experience anxiety after having her babies. When the first two weeks have passed, it's important to allow her to have her own space, and this separated design ensures she gets what she needs, featuring a removable door for open access. With dual-sided construction, the mama can have the comfort of airflow while the puppies have a wind-resistant space. Report incorrect product info. Estimated ship dimensions: .This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pickup. See the return policy for complete information. Ask a question. A whelping box is a safe, enclosed space where a dog can give birth and care for her puppies. The box typically has high sides to prevent the puppies from accidentally falling out, and it is often lined with soft bedding material to keep the puppies warm and comfortable. The box may also include a heat lamp to provide additional warmth, and it may be equipped with a door that can be opened or closed for easy, safe access, and to regulate the temperature inside. A whelping box should be large enough for the mother to move around comfortably, but small enough to retain body heat and provide a feeling of security. It should be used from the time your dog goes into labor until the puppies are weaned. Once the puppies are weaned, they can be moved to a puppy pen or dog crate. By the way, a whelping box should also have puppy rails. Puppy rails, also known as pig rails, are secured inside the whelping box quite low around the perimeter of the box. This is a crucial safety feature, as it helps prevent the puppies from being crushed against the wall of the box How Does A Whelping Box Help? A dog whelping box is an essential piece of equipment for any dog owner who is expecting a litter of puppies, as it helps to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her offspring. A whelping box provides a safe, warm environment for your dog to have her puppies. This helps keep the mama calm during the labor and keep stress levels to a minimum while caring for the pups in a safe space. If you have other pets in the house, a whelping box ensures that they do not disturb or hurt the puppies. Using a whelping box also reduces the risk of the puppies becoming injured or lost. A DIY whelping box is an easy and affordable way to provide a safe space for your dog to have her puppies. Building a whelping box is a simple project that anyone can do. There are quite a few different ways to do that — most of them being very simple, quick, and inexpensive. Choose a bin that is large enough for your dog to move around comfortably, but small enough to retain body heat. If the sides are very high, drill or cut holes in the sides of the bin for ventilation. Finally, line the bottom of the bin with appropriate materials to absorb any mess. And there you have it, a cheap DIY whelping box! Find a sturdy cardboard box that is large enough for your dog to move around in. Cut holes in the sides of the box for ventilation. You should also cut an appropriate sized opening for the mama and puppies to get out of the box comfortably. Line the bottom of the box with comfy and cushy materials that absorb any mess. Cardboard is very porous and it can get flimsy rather quickly. However, you may want to opt for something sturdier and less porous instead. Bring Out The Kiddie Pool You can build a whelping box out of many different materials, but one of the cheapest and easiest options is to use a kiddie pool. To create a kiddie pool whelping box, simply clean the pool thoroughly, secure the puppy rails you can use pool noodles for this , and line it with towels or blankets. Place the pool in a quiet, draft-free room in your home and make sure that it is big enough for your dog to move around comfortably. But, a sturdy wood whelping box can be used over and over again, making it well worth your time. Of course, you should carefully consider which type of wood you use. For instance, the popular plywood is actually very porous, making it harder to clean. It also traps in dirt and bacteria, which could lead to infections and illnesses. Start by measuring your mama dog and the area where you want to place the whelping box and cut the wood to size. Be sure to make the opening large enough for your dog to comfortably enter and exit. In addition to that, you should also attach low rails inside the box. But why PVC? PVC is a strong, durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. And if it does get dirty, a quick wipe-down is all it takes to clean it. In addition, PVC is lightweight and easy to assemble, making it ideal for use in a whelping box. Many whelping boxes available for purchase are made from PVC materials thanks to all of their amazing qualities. But, as you may know, ready made PVC whelping boxes can be quite pricey. However, PVC pipes make excellent pig rails for that added safety and security. Obviously, you want to make the DIY whelping box as comfortable as possible for the mama and the pups. Some breeders also use heat lamps to keep the whelping box warm. Even though some people opt for newspaper or wood shavings, we recommend you avoid them. Another popular choice is using old bedding or towels. They may get trapped or accidentally crushed by the mother. However, if you manage to secure the blankets and towels in place, they should be safe to use. In addition to that, you can also opt for a specially designed crate pad that stays in place, provides warmth, and is safe for the puppies. Line the bottom of the box with absorbent material and change it often. Wash bedding in hot water and disinfect surfaces regularly. The bedding should be dry at all times, so whenever an accident happens, be sure to change the bedding as soon as possible. Where you place the box is just as important as the box itself. It should be in a quiet area away from the main traffic flow of your home, and out of direct sunlight. You should also keep it far away from potential hazards like open stairways or fireplaces. The whelping box should also be large enough to accommodate the mother dog and all of her puppies comfortably. The temperature in the area should be comfortable — not too hot and not too cold. If necessary you may have to get an additional heating pad or a heating lamp to keep the puppies warm. To build a basic DIY whelping box, you will need either a kiddie pool, cardboard box, or a storage bin. You should also stock up on bedding material like blankets, towels, or crate pads. Next, line the bottom of the box with your chosen bedding material. This will help to keep the puppies warm and dry. Finally, place the box in a quiet, private area where your dog can feel safe and secure. By following these simple steps, you can easily create a cozy space for your dog to welcome her new puppies into the world. PVC tubes are often used to create puppy rails, a. As we mentioned earlier, a dog whelping box should be big enough for the mama and pups to comfortably move around. Yet, it should be snug enough so that it retains body heat. The general recommendation is that a whelping box should be one foot longer than your mama dog. Only measure your dog stretched out, as the mama has to be able to move and stretch comfortably around the box while caring for the puppies. By the way, you can also get some hints from websites that sell different dog whelping boxes. Just take a quick peek at what sizes they offer! It provides a safe, warm environment for the mama and her pups, and helps to contain the mess. Building a DIY whelping box is a simple project that anyone can do. Do you have any tips for building a DIY whelping box? Share them in the comments below! A whelping box is a must-have for any expecting canine and her upcoming litter. However, not all are equally beneficial. In 'Essential Features to Consider When Buying a Whelping Box', we simplify your decision-making process by highlighting the crucial elements of a reliable, safe, and comfortable whelping box. This guide will enable you to make a well-informed purchase, ensuring the best care for your soon-to-be canine mother and her puppies. Safety Comes First You wouldn't move into a house with a leaky roof or broken windows, right? Just like us, our furry friends deserve safe and secure surroundings, especially when they're about to become mothers. In terms of a whelping box, safety translates into certain specific features. Look for a whelping box with sturdy rails, also known as "pig rails. This feature is especially important for larger breeds. Size Matters No one wants to live in a cramped space, and that includes your dog and her soon-to-be puppies. When considering the best whelping box, take into account the size of your dog and the potential litter. You want a box that will comfortably accommodate the mother and her puppies, allowing them enough space to move and grow. Remember the Goldilocks principle — not too big, not too small, but just right. For small breeds, a smaller box might suffice, but for larger breeds, you'd certainly need a more spacious option. The Material of the Box Remember how we emphasized safety? That's where the material of the box comes in. Durability is key. You don't want a whelping box that falls apart halfway through the whelping process. For the whelping box buying guide, we recommend choosing one made from durable, easy-to-clean materials. Plastic or high-density resin works best because they're non-porous, which means they won't harbor bacteria or other nasties. This helps you keep the puppies safe and healthy. Ease of Cleaning Think about your house. You clean it regularly to keep it hygienic and comfortable. A whelping box is no different. Invest in a box that's easy to clean. Remember the phrase, cleaning a whelping box, and make it your mantra. An ideal box would have removable panels or sections that you can clean separately. Some even come with puppy pads or waterproof liners, adding to the cleanliness quotient. The Adjustable Factor Puppies grow fast. One day, they're tiny, blind, and completely dependent, and the next thing you know, they're scampering around exploring everything they can find. An adjustable whelping box can grow with them, allowing you to increase the space as they get bigger. This factor can also be handy if you have dogs of different sizes and you need to switch the box between them. So, when you think "durable whelping boxes," also think "adjustable. Temperature Control This feature may seem like a luxury, but it is particularly useful for breeders in regions that experience extreme temperatures. Maintaining the right temperature in the whelping box for small breeds" or large breeds can ensure the puppies stay comfortable and safe. The presence of a built-in heating system in the whelping box can be a lifesaver in cold environments, keeping the newborn pups warm and cozy. Mobility A mobile whelping box with wheels can be incredibly convenient, especially when you need to move the box to different parts of the house. Remember to look for boxes with lockable wheels — safety first, after all! Easy Assembly Look for a whelping box that is easy to assemble and disassemble. This can be especially useful if you're short on space and need to store the box when not in use. Future-Proof Design As puppies grow, their needs will change. Consider a box that can be converted into a puppy pen as they start to become more active and curious. This means you won't have to invest in a separate space as they grow, making it a cost-effective choice. As we continue to delve into the "essential features to consider when buying a whelping box," let's not forget the profound impact this simple box can have. Role in Training As your puppies grow and start exploring their environment, the whelping box can serve as their first 'safe space. Part of the Family Let's not forget the emotional aspect of a whelping box. It's the place where your dog will become a mother. It's the place where her puppies will take their first clumsy steps and open their eyes to the world. The box will become a part of many precious memories, adding sentimental value that goes beyond its material worth. A Box Full of Stories Think of a whelping box as a book, each corner filled with a different story, each panel witnessing a unique moment. From the nervous anticipation of the mother as she steps into the box for the first time, to the thrill of the first puppy making its way into the world, every memory created around this box will be one to cherish. Moving Forward Now that we've covered the essential features to consider when buying a whelping box, what's the next step? Remember, the journey doesn't stop at buying the box. Let's see what lies ahead. Preparing the Whelping Box Once you have chosen the perfect whelping box, the next task is preparing it for the arrival of the puppies. Ensure it's clean, hygienic, and comfortable for the mother. Line it with absorbent puppy pads to handle any messes and to provide a soft surface for the puppies. Introducing Your Dog to the Box Just as you'd acquaint yourself with a new house, introduce your dog to the whelping box well before her due date. This gives her time to get comfortable with it. A comfortable mother equals a smoother whelping process. Monitoring the Whelping Process Now that the box is ready and your dog is comfortable, the next step is to monitor the whelping process. While dogs have been giving birth for thousands of years without human intervention, it's good to keep an eye out and step in if necessary. Post-Whelping Care Once the puppies have arrived, the whelping box will become their first home. It will need regular cleaning and maintenance to keep the puppies healthy. Cleaning a whelping box isn't a one-time task, but a regular part of your post-whelping routine. Reaping the Rewards After all the preparations, considerations, and care, what you get is priceless: a healthy litter of puppies, a content mother, and memories to last a lifetime. Once you've set up your whelping box and your dog has successfully given birth, it's important to remember that your responsibilities don't end there. Regular Cleaning We've emphasized before, but it bears repeating - a clean environment is crucial for the health of the newborn puppies and the mother. Dirt and bacteria can easily build up, leading to possible health complications. Ensure you're cleaning the box regularly and thoroughly, keeping the "cleaning a whelping box" mantra alive. Health Check-Ups Regular health check-ups for the mother and her puppies are a must. Monitoring their health status, ensuring the mother is healing properly post-delivery, and confirming the puppies are developing well is critical. Regular visits to the vet can help spot any potential health issues early. Nutritional Needs Ensure that the mother is getting the right nutrition she needs to recover from the birthing process and to nurse her puppies. As the puppies grow and start transitioning from mother's milk to solid food, pay attention to their nutritional needs as well. Socialization and Training As the puppies grow older, the whelping box becomes a place for them to learn and socialize. Introduction to new sounds, sights, and experiences can begin here. The whelping box, in a way, becomes their first classroom. The Joy of the Journey With every step you take in this journey, from pondering over the "essential features to consider when buying a whelping box" to nurturing the mother and her puppies post-birth, remember that it's a labor of love. Every task, every responsibility, every decision you make is contributing to the well-being of your pet and her new family. And what's more rewarding than seeing the puppies grow, healthy and happy, in the comfort and safety of the whelping box you so thoughtfully chose? The coos, the clumsy steps, the tiny barks, the soft puppy fur — everything is a part of the experience that a well-chosen whelping box brings to life. As you navigate through this process, remember that every effort made is a step towards creating a nurturing environment for your beloved pet and her precious litter. The Tale Never Ends Choosing a whelping box, nurturing a pregnant dog, witnessing the miracle of birth, and raising puppies is more than a chapter in your life; it's a continuous tale of love, care, and companionship. Each choice you make, every "durable whelping box" you consider, every cleaning routine you establish, and every veterinary appointment you keep, adds to the narrative. In the grand scheme of things, the phrase "essential features to consider when buying a whelping box" transforms into "essential features to consider when nurturing a new canine family. So, step forth with knowledge and confidence, armed with the know-how of what to look for, and remember — the journey is as rewarding as the destination. Enjoy every moment of this unique experience, and here's wishing you and your growing canine family all the happiness in the world! A Legacy of Care As we continue to unravel the intricacies of the topic, "essential features to consider when buying a whelping box," we also embark on a journey that extends far beyond the purchase. A whelping box is more than just a space for birth; it's the beginning of a legacy. First Home to Many Over the years, a good, durable whelping box can serve as the first home to multiple litters. If you're a breeder, this box can be the starting point of many families, and with each litter, you get to witness the beautiful cycle of life unfold. Years of Memories The whelping box will bear witness to countless first steps, first barks, and countless moments of puppy mischief. Every corner will echo with the memory of tiny tails wagging in excitement, every wall hold the ghost of a happy bark. Teaching Generations If you decide to keep a pup from the litter, they may very well end up having their own puppies in the same box one day. Imagine, a whelping box that not only has witnessed generations of puppies, but has been an integral part of their story, right from their first breath. The Circle of Life The journey from considering the "essential features when buying a whelping box" to seeing the box become a part of your family's history is a heartwarming circle of life. Every puppy that grows up in the box, every mother that finds comfort within its confines, adds to the rich tapestry of memories associated with the whelping box. The Gift that Keeps on Giving So, as you go about your search for the perfect whelping box, remember that you're not just investing in a product, but in a treasure chest of memories, a cradle of life, and a legacy of love and care. From the initial considerations of size and material, safety and adjustability, to the continuous care and maintenance, each aspect of choosing and maintaining a whelping box speaks volumes about your dedication towards ensuring the best for your pet and her progeny. Whether you're looking for a whelping box for small breeds or a larger one, the considerations remain the same. It's about creating a nurturing space that assures comfort, safety, and happiness for the mother and her puppies. Conclusion: Choosing the right whelping box is a significant decision that impacts both your pet's comfort and the health of her future puppies. Key features, including the safety measures, size appropriateness, quality of material, and ease of cleaning, play pivotal roles. In addition, the box's adjustability contributes to the convenience for both the mother and her litter. But your responsibility doesn't end at the purchase. The journey continues with maintaining the box, ensuring regular health check-ups for the mother and her puppies, and providing a nutritious diet that meets their evolving needs. The whelping box becomes their first classroom, introducing them to new experiences and helping them socialize. Every step you take in this journey, from selecting the perfect box to raising a healthy litter, is a testament to your dedication towards your pet's wellbeing. As the tale unfolds, the whelping box becomes a symbol of your commitment, a cradle of memories echoing with tales of love and companionship. In the grand scheme of things, it's about creating a nurturing space for your pet, ensuring a safe introduction to life for the puppies, and cherishing the joyous journey it brings along. Embrace the experiences, and may your story be filled with wagging tails, happy barks, and endless moments of joy. Happy pet parenting! The link has been copied! You might also like. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia A female dog in her whelping box. Whelping Box with Extension Wall. Whelping boxes vary from improvised cardboard boxes, durable corrugated plastic to purpose built equipment, typically made of plywood or plastic. Desirable features include ease of cleaning and sanitation, extendibility, and toughness. However, there can sometimes not be enough traction, and with the added factor of an unnaturally flat floor, often puppies can develop, and suffer from what is known as hip dysplasia. Also whelping dens exist, which are whelping boxes that are enclosed on top. Commercially available whelping boxes often feature accommodations for accessories such as heat control devices and IP camera attachment. The sides of the box are designed to be high enough to safely contain the puppies, yet low enough to allow the mother to enter and leave comfortably, with consideration given to her protruding mammary glands. Alternatively, the box is provisioned with a doorway with adjustable height for the same purpose. The bottom of the box may or may not have a floor and may be lined with specially designed "whelping pads," or layers of newspaper or fabric to provide insulation from cold floors and to absorb fluids. Full covers may be used to prevent puppies from escaping. Most boxes will include a low railing termed rails, pig rails, or roll-bars fixed to the inside perimeter of the box. This is to protect puppies from being crushed or smothered by the mother should she roll over during birthing or while asleep. This is considered especially important with larger dog breeds. Here are some ideas for your small dog. Cardboard Box One of the least expensive whelping boxes is simply a cardboard box. Make sure it is big enough that your dog can stretch out in it. The nice thing about a cardboard box is that, once you no longer need the whelping box, you can simply throw it away. To make a whelping box out of cardboard, use these easy instructions: Find a box that your dog can comfortably lie down and stretch out in but not much larger than that. The sides should be at least to inches high. You want the sides to be too high for the puppies to climb over, but not so high your dog can't get over it when she wants a break. Smaller breed dogs will be fine with 12 inches, whereas larger breeds will need 24 inches. Cut a "door" into the side of the box for your dog to move in and out of the box. The width of the doorway should be about twice her body's width, and the edge should be high enough to keep puppies in but not so high she hits her belly on it. You will want to use some sort of covering on the cardboard to keep it from getting wet and to make cleaning it easy. You could line it with duct tape, plastic sheeting, tarps, or plastic drop cloths made for painting. Then cover whatever material you use with newspaper or old towels to make the flooring soft and comfortable. Plastic Storage Bin A plastic storage bin can also be used as a whelping box. You want to use the under-the-bed storage type so that the sides will be short enough for the mother dog to easily get in and out. If you decide to go this route, fold old towels on the bottom to ensure there is no chance that your dog will slip when she is moving around. Be aware that depending on the size of your pups, they may be able to get over the sides of the bin as they get bigger. In that case, you can extend the sides of the bin with cardboard. Ideas that will work for bigger dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers and Rottweiler dogs , include: Appliance Boxes If you have a mid-sized breed, you may still be able to find a cardboard box. Check with appliance stores and home improvement stores that carry items that would require bigger boxes. If you can't find one, you still have some inexpensive alternatives. The downside to using these boxes is once the puppies get large enough, they will be able to get over the sides, which they wouldn't with a traditional whelping box with sides at least inches high. Kiddie Pool A hard-sided plastic kiddie pool usually costs less than twenty dollars, and you can get them in several sizes. They are also easy to clean. These pools will last for several litters of puppies. However, just as with appliance boxes, the problem with the kiddie pool is that the sides may not be high enough to keep the puppies in as they get bigger. There are newer types of kiddie pools made just for dogs that have higher sides. Another option for larger dog breeds is to use a water trough , which has higher sides. They're much more expensive but very sturdy and can be reused for whelping, as well as an outdoor pool or bathing area for your dogs. To make a whelping box out of a kiddie pool, find a pool size where your dog can lay out comfortably with some extra room for the puppies. You can line it with a round whelping pad, old towels, newspaper, or even covers made specifically for kiddie pools used for whelping. An excellent safety precaution is adding a PVC pipe frame that serves as puppy rails to keep the mom from rolling over and crushing a newborn pup against the sides. Just be sure the puppies can't get stuck under or between the pipes. To keep puppies from getting out of the pool when they get larger, you can run x-pens or playpen panels around the outside of the pool. Make sure you leave a doorway for the mom to come and go! Whelping Box Plans If you want to build your own cheap whelping box but prefer a different style, you can find simple whelping box plans on the Internet. Here are some to get you started: Are you InTheKnow? Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. You can adjust the size for your own breed of dog. The plans are for a very sturdy box that is easy to clean and take apart for storage while standing up to a lot of usage. Supplies needed include two 4-foot by 8-foot plywood sheets, four 2-by-4s for the pig rails, polyurethane, and hardware, such as steel three-corner braces, tee nuts, and cap screws. You'll also need a table saw, drill press, router, screwdriver, and drill with several bits. While the website includes detailed plans and instructions, if you're not accustomed to working with tools and lumber, you may want to hire a contractor to build this box for you. How to Build a Whelping Box with Puppy Rails The PetPlace website provides a very detailed set of step-by-step instructions on how to build a whelping box using plywood, wood strips, vinyl flooring, hinges, and corner braces. You'll also need to be handy in order to build this box, as tools required are a circular saw and drill. The floor is optional, and the instructions allow for removing it to create a bottomless box. The puppy rails are made from the wood strips, although you could also improvise and make a set of puppy rails using PVC pipes and connectors. Building a Whelping Box Another excellent set of plans for a whelping box built with plywood and hardware is found in this YouTube video. The box described in this video has the puppy rails built into the sides as well as two shelf areas in the back for supplies and can be placed on cheap vinyl flooring tiles for easy cleanup. The box was made for a labradoodle , but you can adjust the dimensions of the plans shown in the video for your own dog's size. Cheap Whelping Boxes for Sale If you're not mechanically inclined and balk at the idea of building anything with tools and lumber, you can purchase a box. There are plenty of options if you're on a strict budget. Check with local seller websites such as Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to see if anyone is selling a box. You can also look on eBay. If you know of any breeders in your area, you could try contacting them to see if they might have a box they want to sell or possibly even rent out to you. It's made of plastic and comes with one whelping pad and PVC puppy rails. If you plan ahead, you can check out the websites of some major manufacturers of high-quality whelping boxes to see if they have sales. Easy to Improvise There are a number of less expensive, homemade whelping box ideas that will work for dogs of all sizes. You can improvise to create suitable whelping boxes that won't break your budget without too much trouble. Just spend some time looking at whelping boxes so you know how they are made and pick the most comfortable and safest style for you, your dog, and her pups.

Once he has reached maturity, you can switch to adult dog food. Not all breeds reach maturity at the same age, however, so this can make it harder to know when to switch. How Long to Feed Puppy Food Puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food until they reach maturity. For dogs, adulthood depends more on breed size than their age. Because large and giant breeds take longer to mature, they need to eat puppy food longer than small- or medium-sized breeds. Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds. They can tell you when to switch to an adult dog food and help make it a successful transition. Leftovers in a bowl could signal that your puppy is getting full and needs less calories throughout the day. Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could cause him to become overweight, which can lead to other health problems. Choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula once your puppy reaches maturity to help him maintain his ideal body condition. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food Once you know when your puppy will reach maturity, you can decide when to switch to adult food. If your puppy will be full grown at 12 months, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula around his first birthday. How to Transition Puppy to an Adult Dog Food When you stop feeding puppy food, you must change more than just the food he eats. The number of meals and portion sizes will shift, too. Most puppies eat three meals a day , but adult dogs can eat just two meals per day. A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset. Days 3 to 4: Serve half puppy food and half adult dog food. Days 8 to Serve only adult dog food. If your dog resists eating the adult food or experiences an upset stomach, extend the transition time as needed. Consult with your veterinarian for more help if needed. For more information and tips on puppy and dog nutrition from our experts , visit our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. Those are good as a rough guideline, but not entirely accurate. Active Goldens eat puppy food longer than the calmer ones. Because adult dog food is not as rich as the puppy version, he can only rely on the puppy food to meet his needs until his behavior changes to adult behaviors. Once your dog has almost reached maturity, his behaviors will automatically change. This change in behaviors is another sign your Golden puppy is ready to transition to adult food. Some of those signs are: Your puppy begins to sleep more and becomes less energetic. Your puppy starts losing interest in their puppy food. Your puppy often has stools after eating his puppy food. When your puppy is growing, he needs more calories and protein than an adult Golden to support his growth. That is why puppy food is designed to have more calories, calories, protein, and other nutrients beneficial for his development. But once he reaches maturity, his puppy food, although beneficial during the puppy stage, can do more harm than good. Because of the high-calorie content, if an adult Golden eats puppy food regularly, in the long term, it can cause him soft stools or diarrhea, and obesity. How to Transition Your Golden from Puppy Food to Adult Food After deciding it is the right time to switch your Golden puppy to adult dog food, the next thing to consider is how you will go about it. The best way to transition your puppy is to gradually mix in more adult food to your puppy food until he is ok with having only adult dog food in his bowl. For most dogs, the whole process usually takes about 7 to 14 days. After a few more days, continue to increase your adult dog food intake while reducing the amount of puppy food. At the end of days, if your dog can eat adult food without any problems, then you can eliminate the puppy food completely. Just a few months ago, your little ball of fluff was tumbling around, getting into mischief. This article will help you determine when to switch your puppy to adult dog food, how puppy and adult dog foods differ , how to select the best adult dog food, and how to transition foods smoothly to ensure that your pup is set up for a life of good health. According to AAFCO, puppy foods should be higher in protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorous than adult dog foods. These macronutrients and minerals help support lean muscle and bone growth. They also provide enough caloric density to enable the puppy to grow and perform basic bodily functions such as breathing, digestion, and movement. Many puppy food manufacturers also include higher amounts of compounds like omega-3 fatty acids to support proper brain and eye development as your puppy ages. Large-breed puppies need specially formulated puppy foods that contain less fat , calcium, and phosphorous to moderate their rate of growth. This helps prevent skeletal diseases such as elbow and hip dysplasia that can result from growing too quickly. You need to ensure that your puppy has the extra protein, fat, and minerals they need to support their growth and development and prevent various bone, joint, brain, and eye disorders. But aside from breed size, you also need to consider whether they are spayed or neutered or if they are a highly active dog that needs more calories. Breed Size Because of their faster growth rate, smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas , Yorkshire Terriers , and Pugs reach adult size sooner than larger breeds such as Golden Retrievers , German Shepherds, and Dalmatians. The guidelines below will help you to determine when to start feeding adult dog food: Small breeds under 25 pounds when fully grown reach adult size at months of age. These breeds will be ready for adult dog food at months of age. Medium-sized breeds such as English Springer Spaniels , Australian Shepherds , and Border Collies are pounds when fully grown, and they reach adult size at months of age. With growth rates between those of small breeds and large breeds, medium-sized dogs will be ready for adult dog food around months of age. Large breeds are over 50 pounds when fully grown. There are many large breed dogs, from the Boxer to the Great Dane , so the point at which these breeds reach mature size and weight can vary between 15 and 24 months of age. With the wide range of breeds under this category and a generally slower rate of growth, these dogs will need to stay on puppy food until they are months old to ensure they have enough protein and other nutrients during this stage. They also need to get those nutrients in the proper ratio to support the growth and proper development of their larger skeletons. Activity Level Athletic dogs may benefit from staying on puppy formulas longer, as the extra protein supports lean muscle growth and function, and the extra fat and higher caloric density can allow energy for high-intensity activities. Spaying or Neutering Breed size is not the only factor when determining when to transition your puppy to adult dog food. Because puppy foods contain a higher calorie density, feeding the correct amount during the remaining months of puppyhood is very important to prevent obesity as the puppy matures into an adult. Spaying or neutering does not usually slow the growth rate of your puppy, but it may affect the growth plates in the bones of large breed puppies, setting them up for joint problems later in life. In addition, unspayed female dogs who will be bred early in life may need to stay on puppy food longer to support gestation and lactation following whelping. Switching Too Early or Too Late Because the timing of switching your puppy to adult dog food is so important, there can be negative consequences from both switching too late and switching too early. Dogs that are taken off puppy food too late may be more predisposed to obesity and associated health problems later in life, given the fact that puppy formulas have more fat and calories per cup than adult dog formulas. The extra protein and calories in puppy foods can also increase the rate of growth in certain dog breeds if they are not fed a breed-specific puppy food formula. If these breeds are left on puppy formulas too long, they can be more predisposed to developing joint problems in the future. Similarly, if your puppy is taken off a puppy formula too early, they may suffer from nutritional deficiencies and growth abnormalities, failing to reach adult size around the expected time and increasing their risk of future bone, joint, brain, and eye issues. How to Pick the Right Adult Dog Food When it is time for your puppy to transition to adult dog food, how should you go about selecting the best adult formula for them as they become young adults? The young adult stage is typically considered years of age, as middle age starts by year in many dog breeds. While most dogs are generally quite healthy during this stage in their lives, feeding them appropriately during their young adult years can help lower the risk of obesity, arthritis , and dental disease as they age. Choosing a Brand The many adult dog food companies are not all equal in terms of quality. Dry Food vs. Wet Food The next step is to decide whether you would like to feed your dog dry food, wet food, or a mixture of the two. Both types of food have positive and negative aspects, and the choice to use one, the other, or both depends on the specific needs of your dog. For example, wet food: Has a higher moisture content than dry food and may be better for dogs that do not drink much water. Has a lower calorie density per volume than dry dog food, allowing dogs to feel fuller on fewer calories, which helps control their weight throughout their lives. Is often more palatable and appetizing than dry food, so it may be a great option for picky eaters or for stimulating the appetite of dogs that are less interested in food. Can be beneficial for dogs with oral abnormalities or dental disease, as it is easier for them to chew. By contrast, dry food: Can be a more economical option than wet food. Is a great option for easier portion control and for dogs that tend to graze throughout the day rather than consume a full meal in one sitting, as dry food will not spoil as rapidly if left out for long periods of time. Is beneficial for dental health, as the crunchy pieces act as an abrasive against the teeth during chewing and help prevent tartar buildup and thus tooth and gum disease. Can be easily used as a tool in puzzle toys for enrichment and mental stimulation. Is be used in slow feeders for reducing the rate at which dogs are able to consume their meals. When your pup eats more slowly, the risk is lower of them swallowing too much air and developing bloat, a potentially dangerous condition. Nutritional Requirements The final step in selecting the best adult dog food diet is to examine the Guaranteed Analysis panel on the bag or can of food and ensure that the formula meets a few major nutritional requirements. Other formulas have glucosamine for joint health or probiotics for gut health. Some dogs are sensitive to chicken and do better on beef- or salmon-based formulas. If you are unsure of the additional needs for your dog outside of the key ingredients and nutrients listed above, consult with your veterinarian. This will help ensure gut regularity with less physical activity. Remember that dog treats and other sources of calories in the diet need to be included when determining the appropriate amount of food for your young adult dog. How to Switch Your Puppy to Adult Dog Food Once you have selected the best adult dog food for your puppy, you are ready to transition them slowly onto their new diet. Because rapid diet changes can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, such as vomiting and diarrhea , it is recommended to introduce the new food slowly over a period of five days or so. Continue to feed your puppy as many times per day as they are used to throughout this process. If your puppy develops vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite, stop feeding the adult dog food and see your veterinarian. How Often to Feed Your Dog For large-breed puppies, it may be best for them to continue to eat three times per day. For medium-breed puppies, they should continue to be fed twice daily when they have been transitioned to adult dog food. For small-breed puppies, you may consider transitioning them to eating twice daily instead of three times per day after they are fully on adult dog food. This may involve providing more attention and playtime for your dog as they become accustomed to fewer feedings per day. Consider extra walks, extra playtime, or brushing to distract them from feelings of hunger. Some dogs may benefit from high-fiber adult dog food to increase feelings of fullness between meals. Your dog may also enjoy cleaned, raw fruits and vegetables such as sliced carrots, cucumbers, or apples without the core or seeds. If you have any questions about transitioning your puppy to adult dog food, contact your veterinarian. In addition, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist can be a great resource for any issues that come up, and they can help develop the best diet and feeding schedule for your new family member. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Check Price Why do we need to switch from puppy food to dog food golden retrievers? They will need more high source of nutritional needs so they can stay healthy and preserve they well-being. But the first few weeks of the transition period are not that easy. Your golden retriever might experience tummy issues. You got to make an extra effort to identify the right food for your puppy during his period of becoming an adult dog. That said, you need to regularly consult with your vet and strategize about the week of the transition period so your dog will become safe with no gastrointestinal tract issues. At first, it may be hard to tell which can be mistaken for health issues or others. But these tell-tale signs are most likely that your puppy is no longer a pup but a developing adult reaching its maturity. Although we, dog owners, hard to accept that they are becoming adult golden retrievers, we still need to prepare for those inevitable events. What we need is to support them and we need to identify these signs. While those new teeth are coming in, you will need some chewing sticks or chew toys for your growing Golden puppy. This is also the time where you need to consider switching from puppy food to dog food which can be done slowly and through a discussion from your vet. Meaning that your puppy is becoming more responsible and matured. They are comparable to any highly active dogs because of their endless energy which makes them want to play all day long. But over time when your puppy is beginning to become less playful, this may be a sign that he is leaning towards adulthood. They may want to play with you every five minutes. He eats slower and eats less Puppies are known for their being voracious eaters. But when they hit their adulthood or while in their transition period to their full-grown dog, they will eat less and you will also notice how slower they eat than they are before. The puppy begins to physically mature Upon reaching 9 months of age, your golden retriever puppy is along its way to becoming mature. There are different kinds of maturity when it comes to dogs and they are largely affected through their gender. For the female dogs, they may have changes in appetite, may appear anxious than normal, and will experience a vaginal discharge of blood. You may not see it happening in an instant, but by the time and as weeks go by, you will realize that your puppy becomes a dog. Usually, the signs are, they listen attentively and responds to you and the other dogs from social cues, they can read if you are angry or happy to them, and they can easily settle down. So watch out for these signs. When he stops growing When your golden retriever has fully grown both physically and emotionally, this is definitely the obvious sign that your dog turned into a full-grown adult dog. This happens when your dog is already 1 to 3 years of age. This is the time where your dog will be needing an adequate source of protein-based nutritional needs such as whole meat mainly with first meat as their main ingredients when buying an adult dog food. Also, you may want to match their type of activity to the dog food you are considering. A general guide for feeding the golden puppy and adult Puppies who are in their first months will develop a built-in timer. This prompts him to eat based on schedule because they are a creature of habit. You should give your golden puppy at least three times a day of meals for the first three months. Prior to that, by the time he reaches four months, feed him at least twice a day permanently. Puppies ages 12 months more or less The above mentioned is the general rule. Yet, there are different cases of how puppies grow depending on their breed size. For golden retrievers, they belong to a medium-sized breed. Their age of maturity will hit by the time they are 9 months of age. While large breeds will hit their maturity when they are 18 to 24 months of age. Transitioning from puppy food to dog food golden retriever After you are completely aware and decided to shift your dog from puppy food to dog food. But be very careful to suddenly give your dog food. The key is to slowly introduce your puppy from puppy food to dog food. Let your golden retriever taste the dog food slowly so that he can get accustomed to the taste of the dog food. Normally this transition process will take about 7 to 14 days. That said, you can start the transition period by giving 75 percent of puppy food and a 25 percent adult food formula for at least 2 to 3 days. After the succeeding days, you can try increasing the adult dog food ratio to 10 percent until it becomes percent adult dog food. As a result, within 10 to 14 days, your golden retriever will somehow liken the adult dog food. If not, you can just go slower with the kibble food ratio until your dog is fully satisfied with the taste. This is among the important process during their transition period. One of the best and appropriate dog food for your golden retriever is this particular Royal Canin. Because it's breed-specific. That said, its nutritional value is specifically curated for a specific type of breed. This is to ensure that what you are getting meets the standard diet of your Golden. There's more than that, this particular dog food has a heart-healthy recipe. And because golden retrievers are vulnerable to heart problems, this will help them prevent any heart disease. Added the fact that it's also made to reinforce the skin of the dog. One of the main ingredients includes Brewers rice, brown rice, chicken by-product, oat greats. It's also packed with adequate vitamins like taurine and DHA for strong vision and helps cognitive ability. All the more, each kibble has a different design and even shape and size which is suited for the dog's jaw structure and biting patterns. This is well suited for a golden retriever because of specific nutrients and dietary needs added. Also, it supports some of the most health problems that the golden retriever commonly faces. So, this is actually worth buying for. Pros Specifically designed for golden retrievers Unique shape and sizes Grain-free. The general rule is to switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food once they reach physical maturity. For Golden Retrievers this is between the age of 12 to 18 months. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and need to stay on puppy food until they stop growing. Switching too early can have a negative effect on the growth and development of your pup. Golden Retrievers are considered a large breed and reach their physical maturity much later than small breeds do. All dogs differ as to when they reach maturity, which is why there is no one size fits all answer to this question. Can switch to adult food at 9 to 12 months. Medium Breeds: 20 to 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 14 months. Large and Giant Breeds: Weigh more than 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 24 months. He will continue to fill out until the age of 2 when he reaches his adult weight. Keeping your Golden Retriever pup on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months is a good guideline to follow. But, there are other ways to tell if your Golden is ready to make the transition. Here are some other signs that will let you know your pup is ready for adult food: Skipping Meals or Leftover Food Puppy food is designed specifically for growing puppies. It is higher in fat, calories, protein and nutrients to help support growth and development. Once your puppy reaches adulthood, he no longer needs as many calories. You may notice that your puppy is skipping meals or leaving food in his food bowl because he is still full. This is a good indication that your puppy is ready to make the switch. Puppies typically eat 3 meals a day, when you make the switch to adult food, you can also reduce the number of meals per day down to 2. Decreased Activity Level We all know that puppies have a ton of energy, and Golden Retriever puppies seem to have even more! But, with age comes a decrease in activity level. Once your puppy starts to mature, you will notice they also start to calm down. Weight Gain Once your Golden Retriever puppy is fully grown, they no longer need high-calorie food. If you continue feeding puppy food to your adult Golden Retriever, you may notice excessive weight gain. Weight gain is a clear indication that your Golden Retriever is past the puberty stage and is ready to switch to adult food. The transition to adult food is important, as puppy food can quickly pack on the pounds. Weight gain is usually seen in Golden Retrievers who are spayed or neutered because owners continue feeding them the same amount of food as before. The age of spay or neuter lines up to around the time your Golden Retriever should transition to adult food, which is when they are finished growing. Puppies require a higher amount of calories, protein, nutrients and fats in order to fuel their growth. While puppies need the proper food to grow and develop, adult Golden Retrievers require food to maintain their bodies. Puppy food is: Smaller in size, making it safer to chew and swallow. Softer in texture, catering to the softer and smaller teeth of a puppy. Contains nutrients and fats essential for bone growth, muscle development, and energy. Carefully balanced for growing puppies. Feeding properly balanced puppy food is important, and large breeds like Golden Retrievers benefit from specially formulated large-breed puppy food. Most vets and nutritionists consider a pup a large breed if they weigh between 55 to Lbs when fully grown. Large breed puppy food is lower in fat and calories than regular puppy food, and it has a carefully balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus. This allows for slow and steady growth, supporting joints and bones. For more information on large breed puppy food, check out this article from PetMD. Different quantities and ratios of nutrients are ideal for different life stages. Keeping your adult Golden Retriever on puppy food can lead to obesity and other health issues such as faster growth, which can lead to hip and elbow dysplasia. Puppy food is too rich and dense in nutrients which not only causes significant weight gain in adults but could result in stomach upset and diarrhea. It could also lead to an overdose of vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food contains nutrients that are suited for dogs who are passed their growth stage. Adult Golden Retrievers need food that helps them maintain their optimal health and weight. The switch to adult food needs to be gradual, over a period of 7 to 10 days. This will prevent any stomach upset in your pup. Basically, the best way to transition your puppy to adult food is to buy a bag of adult food when you purchase the last bag of puppy food. Gradually mix the two foods together, increasing the amount of new food over a period of 7 to 10 days. By day 9 or 10 your Golden Retriever should be eating his new adult food. If at any time during the transition period your Golden Retriever experiences an upset stomach or diarrhea, or simply resists the adult food, you can extend the transition time as needed. Final Thoughts So, as you can see there is a right time and a wrong time when you should switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food. Golden Retrievers grow and mature at a slower pace than smaller breeds do, and require the essential nutrients found in puppy food for much longer. It is recommended to keep your Golden Retriever puppy on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months. You want to gradually introduce the new food in order to avoid any stomach upset. Is your Golden Retriever puppy ready for adult food? At what age did your Golden Retriever start eating adult food? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love.