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We start with the origin, the parent breeds — Pug breed and Maltese. The Pug Breed The Pug is a breed of dog known for its distinctive physical features and has a wrinkly square muzzle face that should never be shaved or cut. The body is solid and heavy with well-developed muscles. It has a very short coat that requires little maintenance, making it an ideal dog for city life. This breed comes in a variety of colors including black, apricot fawn, silver or platinum, and palomino. Pugs have a sense of humor and are very affectionate, so they form strong bonds with their owner and other pets. They are very gentle and easygoing dogs. They usually get along well with children, strangers, and other animals. They are bright and can be taught to do tricks quickly and without much effort. Yet, these dogs are not ideal for people who are gone for long periods of time as they are known to experience separation anxiety when left alone. These cheerful little dogs are easy to care for and need moderate daily exercise. They are small, sprightly dogs that are known for their white coats. Maltese make good pets because they are very friendly and playful. Maltese dogs are a good choice for people who live in an apartment. Maltese dogs are good with children, but they need to be supervised around young kids because of their size. Maltese dogs usually have a white coat, although some may have a light tan or apricot color. They have long hair that should be brushed regularly to prevent tangles and mats from forming. Maltese are very small dogs, typically weighing between four and six pounds. They have a round head, large eyes, and a pointy muzzle. They have triangular ears that stand erect. Maltese tails are usually long and bushy. Maltese are smart and eager to please; however, they can also be timid, which means they need to be properly socialized when they are young. Maltese dogs often become good-naturedly aggressive with other dogs, and sometimes even cats. Appearance — Malti Pug Malti Pugs are different-looking pugs. They do not have the traditional wrinkly faces that the typical and well-known pug has. Instead, Malti Pugs possess the body of a Pug and the face of a Bolognese dog. The face of this cross between pug and Maltese can be blunt or slightly longer than in purebred pugs. A Malti Pug looks like a tiny version of a Pug or a little Pomeranian. It has short legs and curled tail. The body is solid and compact with a flat muzzle and always pure black eyes or brown eyes. Malti pug has prominent, round eyes that are dark in color, a pug nose, and large ears that are set low on the head. Malti Pug can have silky or flat coats usually depending on the type of Maltese they are generated from. The variety of coat colors and patterns make Malti Pug very attractive pets. Their short and fine hair appears smooth and soft to touch, but it can get easily tangled with more frequent brushing. Pug Maltese are well known for having the energy levels of a small lap dog yet the mannerism of larger dogs. The average height of these dogs is inches. This breed can be called yappy if you live in an apartment because they are indoor dogs. But they make good watchdogs, barking loudly at any stranger who might come to your door. They are easy to train. Temperament — Malti Pug The Malti-Pug is a very interesting mix of breeds and as a result, there are many things that to note about him and his temperament. The Malti-Pug belongs to the toy dog breed. The toy dog breed has a good reputation for being smart and trainable, especially for people who like a challenge that is sure to come. You will have responsibilities like short walks and grooming. Malti-Pug is a rare combination of an energetic, spirited, and fun-loving personality, with a hint of an independent mind. They also have protective tendencies. This dog is very loyal to its family and needs a lot of attention from them. The dog would be suited for you. Pug Maltese are able to charm any company, interesting, friendly, gentle, playful nature, and lively dogs. They love their territory and try never to leave it for long. They like their house and yard very much, and in time can become an excellent watchdog. This breed is intelligent and eager for adventure, which makes it ideal for people of all types. Provided the trainer is experienced and talented, this breed will do well with anyone. This breed is a good choice for people who are looking for a loyal and loving dog. They are able to participate in many activities with their family. However, they might not be the best breed for inexperienced trainers. These problems can make the puppy sound like it is snoring or gasping for air when sleeping. Since people do not know about the breathing issues these dogs can have, they are breeding them recklessly. This could lead to more dogs having breathing problems in the future. Pugs have crowded teeth and they can get an illness called periodontal disease. If they do, it can lead to serious problems and damage in their body like in the kidney. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy is a disorder that is passed down from parents to their children. It affects the bones and can cause tumors to form on them. Malti-pugs are more likely to develop breathing problems because they have a shorter nose. This can lead to a collapse of the nasal passage. They also tend to suffer from overcrowded teeth, which is a common issue in Pugs as well because of their brachycephalic skull shape. Other Health Problems There are other health problems that Malti-Pugs can inherit from their parents. Malti-Pugs can develop a set of health problems that are common in both the Maltese and pugs. The main thing to look out for is breathing problems because of their brachycephalic skull shape. Teeth overcrowding is also a major issue with this dog breed. Always buy a Malti-Pug puppy from a breeder who will give you health clearances for both parents. It manifests itself in pugs that have been bred with Maltese and pugs, though it can also be observed in other dogs of both purebred and mixed-breed. Malti-pug small dog syndrome causes many problems in the lives of malti-pug dogs, little dogs that suffer this condition. The small dog syndrome will not let the dog grow to be their size. Their behavior is different and their looks are changed. People who own malti-pug small dog syndrome should seek the help of a vet. They can be either light or dark in color, and their ears may be cropped or uncropped. First, you should brush their coat regularly to remove any loose hair or dirt. Second, you should trim their nails every week or two to prevent them from getting too long. And lastly, you should give them a bath once a month or so. Exercise Requirements- Malti Pug These dogs have very demanding natures and are perceptive of the moods of their owners and the environment around them. They need to be with the family for most of their waking hours to get along well with them. You need a lot of attention from your Malti Pug to go along with the privilege of having him or her as a pet, as well as moderate exercise. You must provide your dog with stimulating activities to keep his or her mind from wandering into mischief. Hybrid dog owners should ensure their dog gets enough exercise. A Malti Pug typically needs at least 30 minutes of exercise each day, such as running or playing fetch. Although they are small dogs, Pug Maltese have high energy levels and require considerable exercise to remain fit. Same as their parent breed pug and maltese, the breeders that you should contact are those with the American Kennel Club certification. Training- Malti Pug Malti-pugs are highly trainable dogs. They are eager to please their owners and can learn a variety of commands and tricks. Training your malti-pug is a great way to create a strong bond between you and your pet, and it can also be a lot of fun. Start training your malti-pug early, while they are still young, and you will be amazed at how quickly they learn. When you first start training your dog, keep sessions short — no longer than 5 or 10 minutes at a time. Praise your dog when they do something correctly and reward them with a treat to encourage good behavior in the future. Conclusion The Maltese Pug mix would be a good fit for any family who wants a dog that is cheerful, humorous, and easy to be around. The mix is basically a miniature pug with super soft fur and cute little wrinkles. These dogs are loyal and affectionate. Expect this dog to thrive in an active environment as it loves to play and shed its energy. It loves people, children, play dates and is really good at going anywhere with anyone. The Maltese-Pug mix is a friendly and fun dog. It likes to play, but you should do that in moderation. This breed of dog is great when given the opportunity to socialize and exercise. They will thrive and be a great addition to any family. For more pug-related guides and information , visit our blogs. 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, A combination of the spunky Pug and the cheeky Maltese, the Malti-Pug is a diminutive dog with a large personality. A gregarious character that gets on well with most people and animals, this hybrid is a good choice for a household that is already established with children and perhaps some additional pets. The Maltese The Maltese does not actually come from Malta as its name suggests, but more likely from the nearby region of Meleda, an ancient Croatian island now known as Mljet. Thought to be an ancient dog breed with over 2, years of history to its name, records show that the Maltese was highly-prized in its time, with the ancient Greeks even constructing tombs for them when they passed away. While the Maltese was able to thrive throughout the centuries, it almost met a premature end in the early 18th century when ill-informed breed fanciers attempted to make the breed even smaller and the population size dwindled. Efforts were made to stop the breed from becoming extinct and it was necessary for other breeds such as the Poodle to be added to their gene pool in order to re-establish a healthy and robust population. The Pug Having enjoyed a surge in their popularity over the last couple of decades, many will be surprised to learn that the Pug is not a new breed at all, but rather one that has been around for several thousands of years. Though we are uncertain where they first originated, they were certainly present within China in the year B. Veterinarians are now demanding that breeders act now and start establishing a new population of Pugs with longer faces and less breathing issues. Rather than looking like a combination of the Pug and the Maltese, they have quickly developed into a breed in their own right, with quite a unique look. As the Maltese is not classed as a brachycephalic breed, its muzzle is relatively long in comparison to its skull and there is more space for the soft tissues of its head. Due to this, the Malti-Pug should have a much less snub-nosed appearance than the Pug with a more pronounced muzzle. Perhaps their most dominant facial features are their dark, circular eyes that lend them a keen and alert expression at all times. Their body is square in shape with short limbs. Their tail curls over their back, though is rarely as dramatically curled as that of their Pug parent. Though many will retain the fawn body and darker facial mask that is typical of some Pugs, others will have solid coat colours that may be fawn, black or white. Their fur is straight and rather harsh, rarely growing as long as the elegant, flowing coat that the Maltese is well-known for. Very sociable, they will get on well with all other family members, including those of the four-legged variety. Most Malti-Pugs make good little watch dogs, as they enjoy guarding their territory and emitting loud yaps as soon as someone new arrives. However, this trait can make for a noisy time when the postman or neighbors pops by! Due to its small size and gentle temperament, the Malti-Pug does not make a successful guard dog. Due to this, owners need to be firm but fair, not allowing them to get away with any mischief. Sensible training is the best way to prevent this behaviour from developing in the first place. Health There are a number of diseases that each parent breed is genetically prone to and, while they may be seen somewhat less often in this hybrid dog, they have unquestionably not been eliminated. Dry Eye Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca Dry Eye can be a tricky disease to diagnose as in the early stages dogs may not show many symptoms. Indeed, in any breed that is prone to developing dry eye, it is advised that their tear production is monitored at each annual vet check. As the disease progresses, the surface of the eye begins to suffer from being chronically dry and a dog may develop a thick mucus discharge, as well as eye infections and ulcers. The treatment of choice is medicated drops that encourage tear production, as well as the frequent application of lubricant drops. There is also a surgical procedure available, which has varying success. Brachycephalic Syndrome One of the best ways to reduce the prevalence of brachycephalic syndrome within a breed is to cross them with a non-brachycephalic dog, as has been done when the flat-faced Pug was crossed with the Maltese. Despite this, some breed members will have a smaller face than they should and may have some issues breathing efficiently. For some, surgical procedures such as a surgery to open their nostrils wider may be of benefit. Owners need to be aware that these dogs are more prone to heat-stroke and can struggle to keep up when exercising with their peers. Porto-Systemic Shunts An abnormal blood flow that is present from birth results in blood being shunted away from the liver, meaning it is never processed as it should be. This results in inappropriate digestion of nutrients and a build-up of dangerous toxins over time. Affected dogs will be small for their age and typically also exhibit abnormal neurological behaviour. The treatment of choice is a surgery to alter the flow of blood so it no longer bypasses the liver. Periodontal Disease Dogs with small skulls are prone to dental over-crowding and the build up of calculus on their teeth. Exercise and Activity Levels While the Malti-Pug is playful and curious, they do not actually need a great deal of outdoor exercise and are usually content with a few short walks that are supplemented with play time and training sessions. Grooming The coat of the Malti-Pug tends to shed quite a lot and should be brushed outside on a daily basis to minimise the loss of fur within the home. As discussed, their teeth benefit from frequent brushing and this is something that owners should work on getting their dogs used to from a young age. User reviews There are no user reviews for this listing. Popular Dog Breeds. Distichiasis Your pooch may also experience issues such as fold dermatitis, allergies, deafness, and seizures. This small dog will have a fairly deep chest with a broad rounded head with a medium-length muzzle. If your pooch gets most of its genes from the Pug parent, they may have more of a square muzzle. This breed will have dark round eyes that will portray an eager but gentle expression. Your pooch may inherit the Pugs double layer coat with a soft, smooth coat of the Maltese. Some pups may inherit the single-layer coat from the Maltese parent, which is also silky and flat. The crossbreeds are also known to have a rough wiry coat with a soft texture. Unfortunately, it is hard to know what the coat will look like until you see the puppy. However, you can expect the colors to be fawn, black, or even white. Diet, exercise and overall health will determine the lifespan of this breed. Trainability This breed is intelligent, which should make them pretty easy to train. That being said, they can have a stubborn side. A dog this size will most likely only require a cup of food in one day. Of course, it will depend on your dogs, age, and activity level. Choose high-quality dog foods that will provide them with the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Avoid buying them the cheaper foods that are full of fillers without any nutritional value. If you have a puppy, opt for food that is formulated for puppies. Puppies have different nutritional requirements than adults. Choose some high quality treats you can feed them sporadically. Also, invest in an automatic feeder or a good dog bowl. Exercise Requirements This small dog is will require at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day. This can consist of a short walk, make sure you have a good leash to keep them from running away. Be careful not to overexercise this dog, as this may cause injuries for their tiny joints. Early training and socializing will ensure that your Malti-Pug becomes a well-developed dog that actually listens to you. Socialization is important to ensure that your pooch becomes acclimated to all types of sounds, smells and sounds in a positive manner. Breed Loyalty When you build trust with your Malti Pug, you can expect a loyal companion that is always by your side. Grooming Requirements The grooming needs for this pooch will vary from dog to dog. The amount of grooming each pup requires will depend on which parent it inherited most of its genes. If the pooch acquired most of the genes from the Pug family, you can expect to brush them at least times per week. Regular brushing will help you remove dead hairs and control the heavy shedding. The Maltese coats are more prone to developing mats and tangles and will require more brushing. Bathing All dogs will need to be bathed at least once every three months. Some dogs may require more bathing than other dogs, it really just depends on the particular pooch. Never bathe your Malti-Pug too often; as it can strip the natural oils from their skin making their coat dry and itchy. If your pup inherits most of its genes from the Pug, you may want to bathe them at least once a month to help control the smelliness. A Maltipug with most of its genes from the Maltese parent will do fine with one bath every 3 weeks. A Pug has fold-over ears, while a Maltese has are drop-shaped that hang close to the dogs face. Your Malti-Pug will most likely have velvety ears that hang close to their face. Cleaning your Malti-Pugs ears will be a part of your regular grooming regime. Most veterinarians recommend that dogs ears should be cleaned at least once a month. Long neglected nails can cause them to split or crack, especially, when your pooch is walking, playing, or running. Lack of oral hygiene can lead to diseases and infections, just like in humans. Opt for a gentle brush and a dog-specific toothpaste. Human toothpaste can be toxic to dogs. With proper and regular grooming, your dog will live a healthy and happy life. Starting the grooming routine early will help get your pooch conditioned to the process, which make your life so much easier! Temperament Both parents are gentle, affectionate, and trusting, which make them a great family dog. You can expect the Malti-Pug to be a small dog physically, with a huge personality. Each dog will have its own unique personality, but you should expect a dog that is full of energy. This small dog prefers to be a lap dog and loves its human companion. The Malti-Pug is an intelligent breed with a silly side. Living Conditions Unlike big dogs, they will be fine living in a home with a small backyard. They are perfect for apartment living, due to their lower energy levels, although be prepared for their bursts of energy. Make sure they have plenty of toys to help keep them entertained. Kids and Other Dogs This small dog will get along with other dogs, cats, and even people. They will do great with families of young children. You can expect them to have common dog problems such as chewing, begging, and digging. However, with proper training, they can be molded to behave the way you want them to. This pooch will look forward to attention from their human companion, so be ready to spoil them with belly rubs and baby talk. Both the Maltese and the Pug require a lot of human attention and are also known to suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for hours every day. The Malti-Pug will do best in an environment where they get a lot of attention. They should do fine if you work outside of the home. Just be prepared to have them greet you at the door wanting all your attention after spending the whole day alone. Health Risks As with any mixed-breed dog, there are some issues you need to consider as a pet owner. Designer breeds may have more health issues than that of the purebred parent. Always ask the breeder if they test the parents for genetic defects. Just taking the time to find out about the background and health issues of the parents can prevent you as a potential Malti-Pug owner facing a host of medical problems and thousands of dollars in vet bills. As with any crossbreed mix, the price of a Malti-Pug puppy will vary in price. One of the biggest things that affect the overall price is the pedigree of the parents. The better the pedigree, the more breeders will charge for the litter of puppies. I personally recommend looking for a reputable breeder, as opposed to buying from a puppy mill. Another thing that affects the price is the breeder you choose to buy from. Popular breeders realize they can charge top dollar for their pups, but it usually means you are getting a puppy that will be health. The prices will vary depending on whether you decide to adopt or buy the doggie. In other countries, the prices may be lower. It really just depends on where you purchase the pup and the breeder you buy from. Finding a Malti-Pug will be a lot harder than finding one of their parents. Most people who adopt or buy crossbreeds will usually contact the kennel club in their country. This will allow you to find a registry of breeders with high breeding standards. Join forums or websites online that share information about the Malti Pug. This will allow you to meet other people who have adopted or bought a Malti Pug and can recommend the breeder they used. Green Field Puppies website , also has a huge selection of Pug Mix puppies for sale, so you can check them out. Some of the basics include puppy food, food and water bowls, crate or puppy pads, leash or harness , puppy gates or baby gates , toys and some safe puppy treats. Your new puppy will also need to have their shots.

But at 10 weeks old a good routine and schedule is really going to help you crack the sleep and nap time routine. A feeding , playing, and, toilet training schedule will also help you get into the groove of what your puppy needs, at what time and will generally save you a lot of stress. Knowledge is power, right? Get into the groove with Zigzag! Some puppies will have been in their new homes a couple of weeks by this point, some of you may have only just picked your puppy up from their breeder. Many breeders now give puppies their first vaccinations before they go to their new homes. Read our full guide to puppy vaccinations for more on that. Now onto teething. Lack of sleep means overtiredness and angsty pups, who are more likely to be bitey and generally just a bit manic. Crates and playpens can help with this as they give your puppy a chill out zone that they can fully relax in. Photo by Shane Guymon on Unsplash What you should start doing at weeks Puppies are always learning, so at 10 weeks old you can train your puppy all kinds of basic cues and commands. The fancy trick training can come later! Get yourself and your week-old puppy into a routine Puppies thrive on routines. Knowing what comes next and life being dependable helps build confidence in your puppy. For a week-old puppy schedule, there will generally be a cycle of sleep, wake up and toilet, eat, toilet, play, toilet, sleep, toilet, bit more toilet. .Your week-old puppy will need to go to the toilet frequently so implementing a toilet training schedule of when to take them out and setting reminders in your phone will help you not forget. Toilet training takes time, and puppies learn through repetition that going to the toilet in the right place will mean rewards, but there can be a few accidents before you get to that point. Create a socialisation schedule At 10 weeks old, your pup will be in their socialisation window. This is a period of time where pups are more receptive to new things, and they learn a lot about the world. Read our full article on socialisation for more information. Find training puzzling? Download Zigzag! Have lots of chew toys available for your puppy Teething means sore gums and also a desire to chew chew chew. If you have plenty of toys around for your puppy to chew on, it will save your skirting boards. You can do this by deciding the rules in your house, writing it out and popping it on the fridge. Finding the right one can be tricky, ideally, you want one that will take you at weeks. Choose a member from one of the organisations in the UK Dog Charter so you can be sure they use positive reinforcement based methods. They are basically like a toddler, and have little control of their emotions at this age, they get tired very quickly and will be dribbling a lot. Puppies lose their baby teeth because the adult ones are pushing through, this can cause a lot of pain, and an increase in saliva. Read our full guide to when does my puppy lose their teeth to learn more. Playfulness Puppies practise hunting behaviour through playing, and will enjoy you being their play partner as they chase and pounce on toys. Play is great for building a relationship and life long bond with your pup, try some of our training games to sneak in some training at the same time. They need time and a bit of help to calm down at this age. A week-old puppy needs a sleep schedule…and plenty of it! They are growing at a rate of knots, emotionally, mentally and physically and they need those down time hours in the daytime to recharge, reset and rest. What exercise will my week-old puppy need? Mental exercise via training and enrichment is also a great bet at this age to keep them stimulated and relieve boredom. What should I be feeding my week-old puppy? Your week-old puppy may still be on 4 meals a day — this is fine! Some people may have already dropped to 3 meals, but for many week-old pups 4 meals help to keep them full and deliver enough food throughout the day. Puppies have a fast growth rate so getting the right ratios of fats, proteins, carbs and essential minerals will be important for their development. Photo by David Clarke on Unsplash How to continue training past the week puppy schedule? Training never stops with dogs, and especially not with puppies, they are very willing pupils. Your puppy is at the very beginning of their training journey and will be learning about the world through socialisation experiences. Finding a puppy socialisation class will be the next logical step here. Do your research, watch a few, and join one that uses positive reinforcement training. Members belonging to organisations signed up to the UK Dog Charter all use these methods, so you can be sure the training will be kind and effective. Enjoying Zigzag? Try our app! Your puppy schedule at 10 weeks of age will mainly focus on socialisation, toilet training, sleep training, plenty of play and controlling their chewing. You can also carry on your puppy training journey with the Zigzag app. We know that sometimes having someone to talk to is a bit of a life saver as a new puppy parent. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. Check Price on Amazon 6. Make Commands Only Once When it comes to training, what you give is what you get. This is known as command nagging. Teach your pup to heed a command at its first mention. If an order is not executed the first time, show your Lab what you want them to do and make the command again. Repeat that until they learn to obey the first time the command is made. Discipline at the Precise Moment of the Unwanted Behavior Timing is crucial when disciplining your 8-week-old Labrador pup. Dogs will typically forget an experience in 2 minutes. However, they can recall your training commands through associative memory. Once your pup has corrected his unwanted behavior with the desired behavior, reward him with a tasty treat and lots of praise. To learn more about how to discipline your dog, check out my top article, How to Discipline a Labrador: What Not to Do! It can also cause aggression in dogs , as found in this year-long study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania. Using physical punishment such as hitting, kicking, or grabbing the jowls and shaking, is simply animal abuse. Other unacceptable methods are physically forcing the dog down onto its side or back, growling at your dog, withdrawing food, using a shock collar, or tying it for hours. Wean Your Puppy off Training Treats Your Labrador needs to learn that skills and commands are not learned or obeyed for the sole motive of a treat. For this reason, it is important to wean your puppy off treats when he has repeatedly performed the behavior and completely mastered it in different locations and with various distractions. Nonetheless, your Labrador puppy is still a dog in training, and you still need to tell him that he has done the right thing. The rule of thumb is that they are trained young when it comes to dog training. You should train Labrador puppies as soon as you bring them home, typically around 8 weeks of age. The American Kennel Club AKC indicates that the first key milestone when training a Lab pup is 8 weeks, as soon as they have left their mother. It is a crucial time to lay the foundation for your Labrador puppy to integrate into the family. When you bring your Labrador Retriever puppy home at two months, it has most likely interacted with a few situations and is eager enough to learn and follow the rules of a new home. A recent study scientifically proved that 8-week-old puppies are quite capable of learning at this young age as they quickly learned to open a puzzle box baited with food and remembered the skill an hour later. Interestingly, these puppies learned the skill better from a human rather than their mother. Other studies have also proven that it is effective for future behavior to teach puppies socialization and other skills rather than adults. In this study, puppies who attended a command and socialization training class for one hour a day for six months responded better to strangers than adult dogs who attended the same classes. Are Lab Puppies Easy to Train? Lab puppies are easy to train. They are a working breed that enjoys physical and mental stimulation and have many positive traits. They are intelligent, devoted, friendly, highly social, and love to please. They are often used as guide dogs, therapy dogs, or search and rescue due to their easy trainability. Apart from the age factor, other breed-specific reasons make training a Labrador puppy easy. Here are three examples: Labradors are among the most intelligent dog breeds. In his book, The Intelligence of Dogs, canine psychologist Stanley Coren lists Labradors in the top tier of the smartest dogs. So, even at just two months, your puppy has it in his blood to learn and carry out commands. To perform their original working job of retrieving fish that came off the trawl, Labradors had to be watchful and enthusiastic. These are essential learning characteristics. As game and waterfowl retrievers for hunters, Labradors have to be obedient. Another core training requirement makes your Lab puppy easy to train. With these ten principles on exactly how to train an 8-week-old Labrador, you can now apply them to the key areas your young puppy needs to be trained in. Labrador Puppy Training: Key Areas There are five critical areas in which you must appropriately train your 8-week-old Lab puppy. In the next section, I will tell you what the training entails. How to Socialize a Labrador They say humans are social beings, but that is also true about dogs. Socialization begins with the breeder and continues with you. To socialize a Labrador, expose him to many different places and situations. Include sounds, smells, other adults, children, animals, cars, objects, etc. Dogs who are well socialized in the first 12 weeks will be set up for life. Socializing and training your puppy young plays a significant role in the development of adult dogs, as evidenced in this important study. Here are two key findings: Dogs that are well socialized as pups will behave more positively with humans and are less likely to display unwanted behavioral problems such as fear and aggression. Socialized dogs are more likely to engage in positive social behaviors with humans. They also learn better how to play games with humans, helping them establish a true bond with their owners. As a puppy, you can teach your Labrador social skills and confidence through intentional training moments in the family. Once he has completed his vaccinations, take him to public places such as parks or puppy socialization classes. Put him outside hourly and learn to anticipate when he needs to go. Reward and praise him when he does go outside. Usually, puppies will need to relieve themselves early in the morning and after meals. Use their natural rhythm for daily pee or poop walks. Dogs hate messing in the area they sleep in and usually hold it. Nonetheless, very young puppies might be unable to do so. Walk your Labrador after his morning meal and hang around for 15 minutes or so to allow him to do his thing. Repeat the same in the evening. Puppies will need to be allowed to relieve themselves every hour, and for vaccinated dogs, a short walk every hours is an ideal routine to prevent them from peeing around the house. If you crate your puppy because you need to go out, get someone to help you stick to the routine. Repeating this routine for the first few days will give your new furry friend a good idea of his expectations. Check out my guide to Labrador potty training here. To crate train an 8-week-old Labrador puppy, start as soon as you bring him home. Slowly introduce him to the crate by throwing a treat inside and let him explore the crate voluntarily. When you first leave him with the door closed, make sure he is tired as he will sleep and not be afraid. Check out my Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens recommendations, including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. Here are six key things you should practice when crate-training your Labrador: Keep your puppy in the crate at night. Initiate crate training from the very first day you bring your puppy home. It will be harder to succeed in crate training if your puppy gets used to other sleeping arrangements. My puppy cried during the first night, but she was just fine after that. Lab puppies can be left alone in a crate for 1 hour for each month of age for up to 4 hours. Keep your dog in the crate when you are out of the house. This is also for his safety, such as when you are cooking. Do not let your Lab out of the cage when barking or giving you those puppy eyes. Instead, reward good behavior in the crate, i. He will quickly learn that being quiet leads to nice things. He will quickly learn that this special place is just for him. Various toys and bedding will offer some comfort for your Labrador. When purchasing a crate for your puppy, the best ones will give your Lab enough room to stand, sit, turn, and lie down comfortably on his side with paws outstretched. Instead, buy a crate with an adjustable divider that allows him to grow into and choose a standard metal model with either a single or double door. Travel kennels like this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel , also from Amazon, are also hardy when you are on the move with your dog. This one is even airline adaptable and meets most airline cargo specifications. Older dogs may refrain from biting because they have been trained not to hurt as they have learned their bite inhibition. This simply means that the dog has learned to control the strength of his bite. This sends the message that the bite hurts. Persist by leaving your hand in his mouth until he lets go, then use lots of praise. All puppies need to master this technique that they initially learned from their mother and littermates. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Training your Lab puppy to soft bite must be done in puppyhood as an adolescent dog will not know how to adjust the force of his jaws when he has adult teeth and adult jaw muscles. This can be devastating for you both, should your Labrador go on to bite someone! Have realistic expectations — as it can take your puppy weeks to learn his soft bite. How to Train a Labrador Puppy to Walk on a Leash Walking on a leash is not a natural skill in dogs — they need to learn it! Teach a leash cue, then introduce the pup to very short walks. If the dog pulls, stand fast and wait for him to return to you before continuing. Do this by letting him wear them for short periods inside the house and yard. I find the best no-pull harness to be those that are not rear-attached, such as the Walk Your Dog With Love harness. They give you more control and are ideal for medium-large breeds. Give a treat when the command is obeyed. Introduce your Lab to short walks outside on a leash. When it appears he is about to lunge toward another dog or object, quickly distract him with a treat. Timing is crucial. Reward him every time commands are obeyed and gradually reduce the rewards as the art of leash walking is perfected. You can start steps 1 and 2 when the puppy is young, but you can only commence step 3 once the dog has been vaccinated. Final Thoughts Eight weeks old is the perfect time to train a Labrador puppy in key areas such as socialization, crate training, potty training, not biting, and leash training. To successfully train your Lab puppy in these areas, you must follow good training principles such as using reward-based training, being consistent in your commands, and disciplining at the precise moment of poor behavior. Begin with basic commands before introducing more complex or trick commands. Related Posts You May Like:. Training through play 10 week old puppies have a lot of things in common with each other. Your 10 week old puppy schedule This is our usual 10 week old puppy schedule, which should make a nice basis for your own. And these can feel like a really big deal in the early days. When puppy blues sets in… No matter how much you prepare for the arrival of a new puppy, the reality can come as something of a shock. Potty training accidents happen despite our best efforts. Night times are interrupted, and apparently over for good by 6am. Over-excited puppies launch themselves relentlessly at clothes and skin with razor sharp teeth. And all the nice things you used to be able to do outside the home suddenly seem far, far out of reach. Every puppy is different, some are simply harder than others. What if it was all a massive mistake? The good news is these feelings of puppy blues are completely normal. How To Cope Many puppy owners go through exactly the same emotions when they bring home a new puppy, and survive to reassure others about it from the other side. Or, visit our forum where you can read dozens of stories from happy dog owners who also experienced that period of overwhelming doubt. And importantly for you and your pup, make sure you look for safe ways to get out of the house together. Socializing a 10 week old puppy At 10 weeks old, your puppy is right in the middle of the all-important socialization window. The socialization window is an important period of puppy development. It opens at three or four weeks old. It again closes between 12 and 20 weeks old, but on average by about 16 weeks old. Quality Over Quantity Ten week old puppies still get tired quickly, especially after taking in lots of new sensory information. And to be honest, a 10 week old Lab is already getting a bit heavy to carry for long periods. So these socialization outings are only going to be short and sweet. The trick is to make sure your puppy has a wonderful time seeing something new. Leave on a high! Then feed them their meal, one piece at time while they sit on your lap or by your side in the trunk of the car and watch the world go by. This builds up positive associations for your puppy. And also lays the groundwork of looking to you for cues about what to do next. Socializing your 10 week old puppy to accept these experiences confidently is something you can work on in the safety of your own home. Start by putting the nail clippers in a work surface in sight of him and feed a small handful of treats. The next day, hold the clippers in one hand whilst treating from the other. Day two done! On day three, have someone else dispense the treats while you hold the clippers in one hand and gently lift one paw with the other. Research shows that puppies socialized to different places and physical examinations during puppyhood are less likely to be given up by their owners. Most of the things you can do take less than half an hour. Sometimes it needs to be about spending time by themselves too. Spending time alone! This could be a playpen , or a whole room, with a comfy bed in it. Now is the time to make sure this space is always a happy and comforting place to be. You should find that by 9 to 10 weeks old they regularly take themselves back there to rest and nap. The good news is that most puppies settle comfortably into a routine of being left for short periods from this age. And in the absence of anyone to play with, they usually just take the opportunity to have a nap! And their appetite for fun and games is insatiable! Playing with your puppy is a wonderful way to start forging a bond which places you at the center of their world. And playing with them the right way means you can already start teaching good manners, without them even realising it was a lesson! This article about how to play with your puppy will set you off on the right foot. Potty training problems Potty training starts from the moment you arrive home with your puppy. But finishing it can take several weeks! They might be going a little longer between toilet trips too. When accidents do happen, clean them up thoroughly with a little dilute biological detergent, or a specialized enzyme cleaner. In the next couple of weeks, your puppy will be ready to go for walks outdoors. Just hang in there, share your progress, and ask any questions you have over on our forum. Pinterest Email The age of 10 weeks is a magical time for most puppies. While pups are old enough to leave their mothers and siblings by 8 weeks, many breeders and rescues prefer to wait until a pup is 10 weeks old before sending him to live with a new human family. A week-old puppy has more time to develop canine social skills with his birth family. When my Pit Bull-mix Mookie came to live with us, he was 9 weeks old. Within a week, his little personality was more than obvious. He was affectionate but mouthy, and full of energy. He was at the perfect age to learn how to act around our cats, as the 9- to week period is an important time for puppy socialization. Our wonderful kitties seemed to understand he was a baby, and they agreed to play with him. If he got too rough, they let him know, and he quickly got the message. Not surprising, considering that a week-old puppy is ripe for learning. Puppy with toy. A week-old puppy is going through a critical fear period Many puppies go through a fear period between the age of 8 to 10 weeks. Your week-old puppy may suddenly act overly afraid of new people, animals or objects, or new situations. Instead, show your puppy there is nothing to fear by acting upbeat and happy. Resist the urge to scoop him up and soothe him; this will only serve to reward his fearful response. The best way to get him through this period is to set a good example with your own confident behavior. Bite inhibition If your puppy spent time with his siblings until at least 8 weeks of age, he should have learned how to inhibit his bite. Brother and sister puppies are great at teaching each other how much bite pressure is too much. That said, a week-old puppy is constantly putting things in his mouth. When your puppy gets mouthy, give him a toy to chomp on. He will eventually learn that only toys are for biting — not people. What to Know About Puppy Teething and Dog Teeth Curiosity about his surroundings A week-old-puppy is learning as much as he can about his surroundings. They are eager to discover the world and will want to explore with their senses of sight, hearing, smelling and tasting. Provide a safe environment for your puppy to discover. Puppy-proof your house and yard by removing objects and situations that can get him into trouble: anything he can chew on, swallow, fall in or get stuck in. Expose him to the outside world in a safe way by keeping him away from strange dogs and areas they frequent until he has received his last set of vaccines. In the meantime, provide him with plenty of companionship in the form of humans both adults and children and safe animals, like the other puppies he will meet at a puppy kindergarten class. Remember that at this age, your puppy needs socialization. The key is to give it to him in a way that gives him positive experiences that are both enjoyable and safe. Doggy Toy. Puppies are super playful at this age and need lots of safe toys they can chew on and chase. A week-old puppy is also at the perfect age for puzzle toys designed to stimulate his little brain. Puzzle toys work by rewarding the puppy with a treat when he figures out a simple puzzle. As your pup gets better at a basic puzzle, you can introduce him to more complicated puzzles until he becomes a real whiz at solving them. Your puppy will be active, curious and quick to learn at this stage in his life. He will also be incredibly cute at 10 weeks and will grow quickly, so be sure to take plenty of pictures! Top photograph: AndreaObzerova Getty Images. Print Raising a retriever puppy like the pros Your Labrador puppy can seem small and fragile during those first few weeks home from the breeder. Labrador puppies will learn quickly about acceptable and unacceptable behavior those first few weeks, if you, the owner, are willing to set and enforce boundaries. Here is the training you should be working on with your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post three of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week three home Your week-old puppy has been with your family for approximately 3 weeks now. This week you should start noticing some bigger changes with your puppy. Here are some of the changes I notice with Bubba. First, she is growing fast! Bubba is almost ready for a new collar already. I have loosened her current collar twice, and there is no more room to expand it. She is also learning a lot. Bubba is also becoming more personable. She likes and has more interest in people now and wants to be petted and scratched more often. Training equipment for Lab puppy We added a couple new training tools this week. But a thicker check cord will also work. We use this check cord for longer outside marks and assistant-marks which I will discuss more in a bit. Puppy sized canvas or light-weight plastic bumpers In week two, we introduced formal retrieving in a hallway in the house. In week three, we move outside with retrieving and introduce assistant throws, so it is helpful to have a few more bumpers. Puppy training that will continue Much of the training I have been working on for the past two weeks with Bubba will continue into this week and beyond. Dog training is not something that has a definitive end-date. For instance, you teach your puppy to SIT and then you must work and practice that command daily or weekly, often for months before the response to the command is solid. But even once the response is solid, you cannot completely stop training. If you stop training, even an older dog, the dog can lose the previous training. So, realize that you are never done working with your dog, especially on obedience training. Some areas that we will continue training Bubba on are: Crate training Bubba is doing great at crate training. She rarely makes any noise while in her crate and settles down quickly after being put into her crate. In the upcoming weeks, we will work towards getting Bubba to enter her crate on command. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking Bubba is going well. We have caught her in a few accidents, but she already seems to understand that she is not supposed to go potty inside. This does not mean that she is done housebreaking. We still expect accidents and will for a few months, so we watch her carefully while she is running around in the house. We also praise her for behaviors like going to the door and tapping the door or whining at the door. These behaviors are rewarded with us taking her outside to go potty. When she goes potty outside, we praise her and then take her right back in. We want her to start understanding that these cue behaviors will get her out to go potty and that is all. Looking for more information on housebreaking? But we will also add a few new ones. We will use this while teaching our puppy the SIT command. It also will be used going forward, anytime we are done working on structured obedience work. We will release the dog from formal work with the OKAY command. But we also use it to mean go to a certain place, such as on a mat or stand. Or, when we want her to go into her crate or kennel. This is an associative command, meaning the puppy will learn the command through our repetition of the word as we tie it to a behavior. But over time, she will make the association and will perform it on her own. This is very important especially if you ever plan on doing more advanced training with your retriever. You will use whatever your dogs name is. A few commands that we will continue to work on this week We will continue to work on obedience commands this week and in the weeks to come. Each week we will expect a little more and better compliance and performance to the command. She is sitting when I put the leash and chain collar on her and when I am taking it off. This week we also added SIT before eating. We only make her SIT for a few seconds; we are working on control. She does not SIT on her own yet, but she will be doing that within a week or so I would guess. Right now, I grab her collar and say SIT. In week three, I have a slightly higher expectation. On walks, I make her walk right beside me for a minute or two using the HEEL command before releasing her and letting her run back and forth a bit. This tells me that she understands the command. Then release her. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. So, call her, praise her when she comes and release. Remember: Never use a HERE command if you are not in the position of being able to enforce the command. Make every effort to socialize your puppy You should continue to take steps to socialize your week-old puppy. Anything you can think of. The more things and situations you expose your puppy to, the better your puppy will be equipped to adjust and learn in the future. Learn more about socialization. Hand throws with a puppy bumper you are throwing out a bumper done outside will carry a lot more distraction than retrieves in a hallway. Just pick up the bumper and try again tomorrow. When retrieving outside, make sure you have a long foot rope attached to your puppy. Never try to do retrieves outside without a rope. You will have problems and encourage bad behaviors. You must have a way to get the puppy to come back to you, otherwise you should not be doing retrieves outside. Once your puppy is doing well retrieving outside, you are ready to introduce assistant marks. Introduction to assistant marks The most important thing we worked on with Bubba this week is assistant marks. Assistant marks are retrieves where someone else is throwing the bumper, not you. This teaches your puppy to watch out in the field for a mark. It is very rare that a duck will come from behind you, fly over your head and you shoot it. The ducks and pheasants will be falling in front of you, so the dog must learn to look out and watch for the mark. We start assistant marks on very short grass with white plugs so that the puppy can clearly see the item on the ground. We hold the puppy in a SIT position facing a thrower who is about 20 feet from you. When your puppy picks up the bumper, immediately start calling her back to you. Remember, you should have the foot check cord on her so you can pull the puppy in if needed. Then, take the bumper from her, throw it behind you, make your puppy sit facing the thrower again and repeat. Only do retrieves and then call it a day. Soon your puppy will learn this game and love it. They will start facing the thrower on their own and sitting and waiting for a mark. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy week-old puppies are so eager to learn, so be sure and take advantage of this enthusiasm to teach new concepts and enforce previous ones. Continue to teach your puppy to handle more and more pressure and correction while maintaining a good attitude. Lastly, assistant marks are a big deal. Once a dog learns this part of the game, you can work to increase the distance and complexity of the marks. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. But at 10 weeks old a good routine and schedule is really going to help you crack the sleep and nap time routine. A feeding , playing, and, toilet training schedule will also help you get into the groove of what your puppy needs, at what time and will generally save you a lot of stress. Knowledge is power, right? Get into the groove with Zigzag! Some puppies will have been in their new homes a couple of weeks by this point, some of you may have only just picked your puppy up from their breeder. Many breeders now give puppies their first vaccinations before they go to their new homes. Read our full guide to puppy vaccinations for more on that. Now onto teething. Lack of sleep means overtiredness and angsty pups, who are more likely to be bitey and generally just a bit manic. Crates and playpens can help with this as they give your puppy a chill out zone that they can fully relax in. Photo by Shane Guymon on Unsplash What you should start doing at weeks Puppies are always learning, so at 10 weeks old you can train your puppy all kinds of basic cues and commands. The fancy trick training can come later! Get yourself and your week-old puppy into a routine Puppies thrive on routines. Knowing what comes next and life being dependable helps build confidence in your puppy. For a week-old puppy schedule, there will generally be a cycle of sleep, wake up and toilet, eat, toilet, play, toilet, sleep, toilet, bit more toilet. .Your week-old puppy will need to go to the toilet frequently so implementing a toilet training schedule of when to take them out and setting reminders in your phone will help you not forget. Toilet training takes time, and puppies learn through repetition that going to the toilet in the right place will mean rewards, but there can be a few accidents before you get to that point. Create a socialization schedule At 10 weeks old, your pup will be in their socialization window. This is a period of time where pups are more receptive to new things, and they learn a lot about the world. Read our full article on socialization for more information. Find training puzzling? Download Zigzag! Have lots of chew toys available for your puppy Teething means sore gums and also a desire to chew chew chew. If you have plenty of toys around for your puppy to chew on, it will save your skirting boards. You can do this by deciding the rules in your house, writing it out and popping it on the fridge. Finding the right one can be tricky, ideally, you want one that will take you at weeks. Choose a member from one of the organizations in the UK Dog Charter so you can be sure they use positive reinforcement based methods. They are basically like a toddler, and have little control of their emotions at this age, they get tired very quickly and will be dribbling a lot. Puppies lose their baby teeth because the adult ones are pushing through, this can cause a lot of pain, and an increase in saliva. Read our full guide to when does my puppy lose their teeth to learn more. Playfulness Puppies practise hunting behavior through playing, and will enjoy you being their play partner as they chase and pounce on toys. Play is great for building a relationship and life long bond with your pup, try some of our training games to sneak in some training at the same time. They need time and a bit of help to calm down at this age. A week-old puppy needs a sleep schedule…and plenty of it! They are growing at a rate of knots, emotionally, mentally and physically and they need those down time hours in the daytime to recharge, reset and rest. What exercise will my week-old puppy need? Mental exercise via training and enrichment is also a great bet at this age to keep them stimulated and relieve boredom. What should I be feeding my week-old puppy? Your week-old puppy may still be on 4 meals a day — this is fine! Some people may have already dropped to 3 meals, but for many week-old pups 4 meals help to keep them full and deliver enough food throughout the day. Puppies have a fast growth rate so getting the right ratios of fats, proteins, carbs and essential minerals will be important for their development. Photo by David Clarke on Unsplash How to continue training past the week puppy schedule? Training never stops with dogs, and especially not with puppies, they are very willing pupils. Your puppy is at the very beginning of their training journey and will be learning about the world through socialization experiences. Finding a puppy socialization class will be the next logical step here. Do your research, watch a few, and join one that uses positive reinforcement training. Members belonging to organizations signed up to the UK Dog Charter all use these methods, so you can be sure the training will be kind and effective. Enjoying Zigzag? Try our app! Your puppy schedule at 10 weeks of age will mainly focus on socialization, toilet training, sleep training, plenty of play and controlling their chewing. You can also carry on your puppy training journey with the Zigzag app. We know that sometimes having someone to talk to is a bit of a life saver as a new puppy parent. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun.

References 1. Clinical and pathological effects An understanding of the anatomy of the normal spine of the dog is useful in understanding this condition. Figure 1. The regions of the spine. The spine or spinal column of dogs is made up of many bones, called vertebrae and it is divided into 5 different regions. There are 7 bones in the neck cervical region, 13 in the chest thoracic region, 7 in the lower back lumbar region and 3 fused together to form the sacrum at the hips. Lastly, there are the tail coccygeal bones, and their number varies. In English bulldogs and other screw-tailed dogs there are relatively few coccygeal vertebrae. Vertebrae are numbered according to region of the spine, starting from the head and working towards the tail. Thus the first cervical vertebra is called C1, the second C2 and the first thoracic vertebra is T1 etc. Intervertebral discs are found between the vertebral bodies. The body of each vertebra is positioned ventrally towards the lower side. Dorsal towards the back of the dog to the vertebral body each vertebra forms a hollow tube of bone, called the vertebral canal. Through this tube created by the column of vertebral canals the spinal cord passes, connecting the base of the brain with peripheral nerves. This tube of bone protects the spinal cord. The spinal cord is made up of delicate nerve tissue which transmits the messages between the brain and other parts of the body excluding the head. Figure 2. Diagram showing the shape of normally-formed vertebrae in the spinal column and how the spinal cord runs through them. Each vertebral body develops in the foetus from two separate parts which fuse together and then ossify turn to bone. Hemivertebrae occur when this fusing process fails to happen correctly so that the vertebral body of one or more vertebra is malformed and wedge-shaped LeCouteur and Child .Often the fusion or ossification is asymmetrical Jeffery et al .The malformations vary, with the apex of the wedge pointing dorsally, ventrally or medially towards the middle of the animal across the midline LeCouteur and Child .These abnormally-shaped vertebrae often lead to alterations and deformities in the shape of the spine such as kyphosis curving upwards of the central spine , scoliosis deviation to the side in the central spine or lordosis curving downwards in the central spine LeCouteur and Child .This angulation of the spine is often moderate to severe and can lead to displacement of the vertebrae LeCouteur and Grandy .The deformity or instability in the spinal column can then narrow the vertebral canal, compressing and damaging the spinal cord, and this can lead to serious clinical signs LeCouteur and Child .This spinal deformity and the consequential clinical signs often progresses as the dog grows or, sometimes, happen secondary to mild trauma because of the spinal column instability LeCouteur and Grandy .Figure 3. Abnormal development of vertebral bodies results in formation of hemivertebrae. Unlike the normal shape of vertebrae shown in Figure 2, in which the opposing faces of adjacent vertebrae are at right angles to the line of the spine, wedge shaped vertebrae as shown here can lead to distortion of the spine with health and welfare effects. Figure 4. Radiograph of a hemivertebra in the thoracic region of a Pug. The wedge shaped vertebra has caused lordosis of the spine, which in turn can cause compression and damage to the spinal cord. Image property of Helen McDonald, to whom we are grateful for permission to reproduce it here. Hemivertebrae can occur in any breed but are most common in brachycephalic, screw-tailed dogs such as English bulldogs also Pugs, French bulldogs and Boston terriers. This is because the kinked tails that many find desirable in these breeds result from hemivertebrae in the tail region of the spine and these breeds have genes that tend to cause the formation of hemivertebrae elsewhere in the spinal column as well as in the tail LeCouteur and Grandy .The commonest region of the spine to be affected by hemivertebrae, in brachycephalic screw-tailed dogs such as the English bulldog is the chest the thoracic area LeCouteur and Child .Figure 5. Hemivertebrae is the cause of kinked or screw tails in some breeds of dog, such as the Boston Terrier and Pug shown here. This condition makes them prone to developing hemivertebrae elsewhere in the spinal column also. Image sourced from Wikipedia at www. Hemivertebral abnormalities commonly occur without clinical sign of disease Done et al .However, if the spinal cord becomes damaged or compressed signs appear. Signs include posterior paresis abnormal functioning of the hindlimbs , muscle wastage, an abnormal shape to the back and back pain. If the problem is severe then the dogs can lose all use of their hind legs and can have urinary and faecal incontinence inability to control passing urine or faeces. Signs can be gradual or rapid in onset and sometimes are progressive Colter .In a number of cases, however, signs may be mild and non-progressive and stabilise once the dog has stopped growing at about 9 months of age Jeffery et al , though the deformity will remain. In these cases no treatment may be necessary. Skin infections and other skin problems can occur in skin folds if the tail is very tightly coiled. In severely affected individuals the only hope is major surgery of the spine to attempt stabilisation and to stop the spinal cord being compressed. This is not straightforward, needs specialist veterinary treatment and may not always be successful. Some dogs which are completely paralysed in their hind legs may not recover use of them after surgery. Paralysed dogs have long-term care needs which many owners find difficult and some dogs will be euthanized because of this. It is an ethical dilemma whether these permanently paralysed dogs should be euthanized or if their quality of life may be sufficient to justify supported living with paralysis and incontinence. Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Some dogs with hemivertebrae suffer no apparent ill effects however others have major welfare problems such as pain, loss of function of the hindlimbs and incontinence. Pain from spinal cord compression can be significant and severe and difficult to control using drugs. Along with pain, the spinal cord damage in severely affected individuals leads to the need for rapid veterinary treatments including major surgery. Some animals may not recover and may need to be euthanized. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact The condition usually first manifests in young growing dogs and worsens as growth proceeds. In a case study by Jeffery et al , all three dogs described were less than 7 months of age. Though some may be mildly affected, all affected animals will have permanent deformity unless surgical intervention is used. The disease problems can develop rapidly over hours or more gradually. Though some dogs with hemivertebrae do not develop signs, others develop severe problems which will not improve unless surgical intervention occurs. Some dogs with severe signs may not improve after surgery and may need to be euthanized. Return to top 4. Number of animals affected The numbers affected are not known, but it is considered a common problem in English bulldogs and other brachycephalic short-nosed breeds that have screw-tails, as the deformity is connected to the screw-tail phenotype physical shape which is a breed characteristic. From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are English bulldogs Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around 50, Return to top 5. English bulldogs are considered to be predisposed to hemivertebrae because of the breed having a screw-tail Jeffery et al .The condition may be suspected in any English bulldog with spinal deformity or with the characteristic clinical signs because it is commonly seen within the breed. A diagnosis can be made using plain and contrast radiography x-rays, with or without dye, which shows up on the x-ray being injected around the spinal cord , however, Jeffery et al believe MRI magnetic resonance imaging scans are needed prior to surgery to help decide on exact surgical requirements. The presence of hemivertebrae seen on x-rays may also be a confusing finding. Older English bulldogs may have spinal disease from other causes and detection of hemivertebrae may make diagnosis of the real cause difficult. Return to top 6. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? All English bulldogs are potentially prone to the problem because the breed has a screw-tail. Without x-ray images of the spine, definite absence of hemivertebrae cannot be confirmed. However, a mature animal without signs has a lower chance of developing clinical problems than a puppy which has yet to undergo its period of significant growth. Currently no advice can be given on how to ensure a healthy individual, free from the condition, is not a carrier. This may become clearer when the genetics of the condition are better understood. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem Not known, though whilst the breed standard includes a screw-tail the condition seems likely to persist. It seems likely, since the screw tail is caused by hemivertebrae in the tail, that out-breeding to dogs with straight tails, then selection for a straight tail might be a way forward to eliminate this welfare problem. Return to top 9. Return to top .References Colter S Congenital anomalies of the spine. New research from the Royal Veterinary College RVC has revealed that English Bulldogs in the UK have lower health overall and are more likely to suffer from certain health conditions, particularly those related to being flat-faced, than other dogs. As such, the breed remains compromised by major health issues that have been recognised in Bulldogs for more than a century. The findings indicate that urgent action is required to reduce the high rate of health issues related to extreme body shape currently seen in English Bulldogs if the future of the breed is to be protected. It is hoped that the results of this research will discourage breeding and purchasing of animals with extreme conformations and instead promote a shift towards acceptance by the public of more moderate conformation with improved natural innate health. The English Bulldog has risen sharply in popularity in the UK over the past decade. However, its distinctive and exaggerated short muzzle, protruding lower jaw and stocky body shape has been linked with several serious health and welfare issues, including breathing problems, skin and ear diseases and eye disorders. Overall, English Bulldogs were found to be more than twice as likely to have one or more disorders in a single year than other dogs. A list of the 43 most common disorders found across both groups of dogs was compiled with English Bulldogs identified to be at a higher risk of suffering from 24 out of the 43 .This demonstrates a much higher risk of health issues in English Bulldogs than in other dogs. Other key findings included: The average age of English Bulldogs assessed in the study 2. Only 9. Top disorders with highest risk in English Bulldog included: skin fold dermatitis x.The disorders with the lowest risk in English Bulldogs included: retained baby teeth x0. Despite substantial recent efforts by members of the UK Brachycephalic Working Group BWG to discourage extreme exaggerations, these new findings suggest further progress is needed to reduce the high rate of health issues in the overall UK population of English Bulldogs. This new VetCompass evidence supports widespread calls to the public to follow the example of progressive breeders, and to support moving the English Bulldog away from its current extreme body shape. In the future, the English Bulldog should become recognised and loved for having a longer face, smaller head and non-wrinkled skin, representing a more moderate and healthier conformation. Owners who already have an English Bulldog are encouraged to monitor them carefully for breed-related health issues such as eye problems, difficulty breathing and skin fold infections, and to seek veterinary advice early if worried. For breeds such as English Bulldogs where many dogs still have extreme conformations with poor innate health, the public have a huge role to play by demanding dogs with moderate and healthier conformations. This new research provides strong evidence that modern Bulldogs remain troubled by many diseases linked to their body shapes, most of which have been recognised for more than a century. It confirms the need to follow the example of more responsible breeders who prioritise health in breeding decisions to improve the welfare of this popular and iconic breed in the future. A collaborative approach to tackling these issues is crucial; we must continue to work together with breeders, vets and welfare organisations to reduce and ultimately eliminate the health problems faced by brachycephalic breeds, as well as reduce mass demand for these dogs. We acknowledge that there is a large percentage of breeders that do not breed to the standard or use the Bulldog Breed Council Health Scheme. Our aim is to educate the public, with the help of The Kennel Club, to research thoroughly and buy only from the conscientious breeders that use the tools available to encourage the breeding of healthy dogs. The RVC offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing and biological sciences. The RVC provides animal owners and the veterinary profession with access to expert veterinary care and advice through its teaching hospitals and first opinion practices in London and Hertfordshire. Abstract Background The English Bulldog has risen sharply in popularity over the past decade but its distinctive and extreme conformation is linked to several serious health conditions. Using multivariable analysis of anonymised veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass Programme, this study compared the odds of common disorders between English Bulldogs and all remaining dogs in the UK during .Results From , dogs under veterinary care during , the analysis included a random sample of 2, English Bulldogs and 22, dogs that are not English Bulldogs. English Bulldogs had 2. These included: skin fold dermatitis odds ratio [OR] .These included: retained deciduous tooth OR 0. These included: congenital disorder OR 7. These were: dental disorder OR 0. Conclusions These results suggest that the health of English Bulldogs is substantially lower than dogs that are not English Bulldogs and that many predispositions in the breed are driven by the extreme conformation of these dogs. Consequently, immediate redefinition of the breed towards a moderate conformation is strongly advocated to avoid the UK joining the growing list of countries where breeding of English Bulldogs is banned. However, its distinctive and extreme conformation has raised concerns because many of these physical features render the breed prone to serious health conditions. There are increasing international efforts to either reform the breed towards a more moderate conformation or, in the absence of such change, to ban the breeding of these dogs on welfare grounds. This VetCompass study explored random samples of anonymised veterinary clinical records from 2, English Bulldogs and 22, dogs that are not English Bulldogs from an overall population of , dogs under veterinary care during in the UK to identify all health disorders recorded for each dog during .The most common disorders in each group were identified and the risks for the most common disorders overall was compared between the English Bulldogs and dogs that are not English Bulldogs. English Bulldogs were younger 2. The results of this study suggest that the overall health of the English Bulldog is much lower than dogs that are not English Bulldogs. Many of the disorder predispositions reported in this study are intrinsically related to the extreme conformation of English Bulldogs. Redefining the body-shape of the breed away from its current extreme conformation and towards a moderate conformation is advocated for urgent action to avoid the UK joining the growing list of countries where breeding of English Bulldogs is banned. Background The English Bulldog was originally a muscular and athletic animal bred and used to attack bulls for sport, broadly similar in conformation to the modern Staffordshire Bull Terrier [ 1 ]. After this activity was banned in , the Bulldog breed became associated with the Victorian underworld, but was repurposed as a show dog at the end of the nineteenth century. Dog showing was a fashionable pastime at that time and was largely regulated by The Kennel Club from onwards [ 2 ]. Consequently, during the s, the combined influences of the breed standard and show-ring fashion drove a dramatic physical transformation of the Bulldog. This refashioned Bulldog had more exaggerated conformation than its ancestors — in particular, a shorter face with a protruding underjaw, heavier build and bowed forelegs [ 3 ]. Because this physical transformation was both dramatic and rapid, it triggered considerable controversy among breeders at that time [ 3 ]. They described many disorders then that are still reported as common problems in modern English Bulldogs, such as short lifespans, heat and exercise intolerance, dystocia, skin disease and noisy breathing [ 6 ]. While these historical accounts are inevitably subjective, lack quantitative data and are largely grounded in superseded understandings of pathology, they nevertheless demonstrate that, over a century ago, the English Bulldog was already showing a variety of health problems that correlate with those still reported in the breed today, and that, even then, Bulldogs were widely considered less robust than many other breeds [ 7 ]. Moreover, they also reveal that the fashion for extreme English Bulldog conformation has persisted for over a century despite widespread awareness of the linked health issues [ 8 ]. Because of the preexisting significance of the breed as a nationalistic icon, the new body shape of the English Bulldog was widely depicted in patriotic imagery from onwards, and became firmly established in popular culture thereafter [ 3 , 9 ]. Indeed, brachycephalic breeds, including the English Bulldog, are currently experiencing a surge in popularity, paradoxically despite increasing evidence and awareness of serious health problems linked to their physical appearance, such as respiratory compromise [ 12 , 14 ], spinal defects [ 15 ], dystocia [ 11 ], ocular disorders [ 13 , 16 , 17 ] and skin disease [ 18 ]. As small animal practice gained political influence during the s, leaders of the newly-formed British Small Animal Veterinary Association BSAVA undertook a pioneering survey of breed-related disease in pedigree dogs, which provides some limited quantitative data on Bulldog health at that time [ 20 ]. In , English Bulldogs were the 34th most numerous breed registered by the Kennel Club, comprising 0. Despite the methodological limitations of this early survey, it provides strong evidence that, sixty years ago, English Bulldogs were disproportionately affected by several conformation-related diseases, which, like those that were already being mentioned half a century earlier, broadly mirror those still reported as common in the breed today [ 6 ]. Using anonymised clinical data from primary care veterinary clinics in the UK, the VetCompass Programme [ 24 ] has previously reported high levels of skin and ear disease, ophthalmological disorders and respiratory issues in English Bulldogs [ 10 ]. Although previous research, historical evidence and anecdotal experience all support a general conclusion that English Bulldogs suffer extremely high levels of conformation-related disease, there remains a need to provide reliable supporting evidence to quantify this conclusion. Growing concerns about the welfare of dogs with severely brachycephalic conformation promoted the formation of the Brachycephalic Working Group in the UK in , followed by the International Collaborative for Extreme Conformations in Dogs in [ 27 , 28 ]. Legislative action has also been taken in countries such as the Netherlands where breeding of 12 brachycephalic dog breeds was banned in [ 29 , 30 ] and Norway where breeding of English Bulldogs was banned in [ 31 ]. Using anonymised veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass Programme [ 24 ], this study aimed to report the most commonly recorded disorders in English Bulldogs and to compare the odds of common disorders between English Bulldogs and all remaining dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK during after accounting for major confounding variables. Based on prior evidence of frequent health issues in the breed [ 10 ], the study hypothesised English Bulldogs would show more predispositions than protections among common disorders overall. The study also hypothesized that the disorders with the highest levels of predisposition in English Bulldogs are closely linked to the extreme conformation that defines the English Bulldog breed [ 8 ]. These results could assist breeders, veterinary practitioners and owners with a robust evidence base on the health of the wider general population of English Bulldogs to predict, prevent and manage key health and welfare opportunities for the breed. Methods The study population included all available dogs under primary veterinary care at clinics participating in the VetCompass Programme during .Dogs under veterinary care were defined as those with either a at least one electronic patient record EPR free-text clinical note, treatment or bodyweight recorded during or b at least one EPR recorded during both and .VetCompass collates anonymised EPR data from primary-care veterinary practices in the UK for epidemiological research [ 24 ]. Data fields available to VetCompass researchers include a unique animal identifier along with species, breed, date of birth, sex, neuter status, insurance status and bodyweight, and also clinical information from free-form text clinical notes, summary diagnosis terms [ 32 ] and treatment with relevant dates. A cross-sectional study design was used to estimate and compare the one-year period prevalence of the most commonly diagnosed disorders in a random sample of English Bulldogs and a random sample of all other dogs. Breed information entered by the participating practices was cleaned and mapped to a VetCompass breed list derived and extended from the VeNom Coding breed list [ 32 ]. Dogs recorded as English Bulldog were categorised as English Bulldog and dogs recorded with any other breed term were categorised as dogs that are not English Bulldogs. Neuter status was defined by the final available EPR neuter value and was combined with sex female entire, female neutered, male entire, male neutered. Adult bodyweight was defined as the mean of all bodyweight kg values recorded for each dog after reaching 18 months old. Mean adult bodyweight was reported overall and broken down by sex for all breeds with adult bodyweight available for at least dogs. Veterinary group attended was categorised as 1—5, based on the 5 practice groups involved in the study. Veterinary group describes aggregations of individual veterinary practices within consolidated larger consortia and were included in the current analysis to account for confounding effects that might have arisen from the owners' choice of individual practice to attend. The veterinary groups included in the current study were assigned a code during analysis to ensure anonymity and included practices that were distributed throughout the UK. Insurance status was categorised as insured or not insured as recorded by the final available EPR. The list of unique animal identification numbers for all dogs under veterinary care in was randomly ordered and the clinical records of a randomly selected subset of animals were reviewed manually in detail to extract the most definitive diagnoses recorded for all disorders that existed during [ 34 ]. Elective e. No distinction was made between pre-existing and incident disorder presentations. Disorders described within the clinical notes using presenting sign terms e. The extracted diagnosis terms were mapped to a dual hierarchy of diagnostic precision for analysis: specific-level precision and grouped-level precision as previously described [ 34 ]. Briefly, specific-level precision terms described the original extracted terms at the maximal diagnostic precision recorded within the clinical notes e. Grouped-level precision terms mapped the original diagnosis terms to a general level of diagnostic precision e. The sex-neuter status, age, adult bodyweight and insurance status for English Bulldogs and dogs that are not English Bulldogs under veterinary care during were described. One-year period prevalence values were reported separately for English Bulldogs and dogs that are not English Bulldogs to describe the probability of diagnosis at least once during .The final combined list of common disorders included the 30 most common disorders in English Bulldogs and the 30 most common disorders in dogs that are not English Bulldogs. Categorical data were summarized with number percent and continuous variables were summarised using median, interquartile range IQR and range. Multivariable modelling using binary logistic regression was used to report the odds of each disorder in English Bulldogs compared with dogs that are not English Bulldogs. A separate model was created for each specific-level and grouped-level disorder. Information theory was applied to generate a list of confounding variables that was consistently included alongside the breed variable in each model [ 36 , 37 ]. Confounding describes the mixing together of the effects from two or more variables on an outcome such as disorder occurrence [ 38 ]. Breed was an a priori variable of interest and was therefore included in all models. Results The study population of , dogs under veterinary care during in the UK included 8, English Bulldogs 0. Data completeness were breed .Descriptive results were reported on 2, English Bulldogs and 22, dogs that are not English Bulldogs Table 1. The median age of English Bulldogs 2. The median adult bodyweight of English Bulldogs .Consequently, understanding the development of conformation-related disease within the breed, and accurately documenting the disease burden and predispositions within the current breed population [ 6 ] are key to assessing and, if possible, redressing some of the main health issues in English Bulldogs. This evidence supports calls for urgent action to redefine the English Bulldog away from its current extreme conformation and instead to move the breed rapidly towards a moderate conformation on welfare grounds. The results of the current study support the study hypothesis that English Bulldogs show more predispositions than protections among common disorders overall. In line with prior evidence of frequent health issues in the breed [ 10 ], these current results support the previous assessments of poor health in English Bulldog populations dating back over a hundred years. More recently, Kennel Club surveys of English Bulldog mortality in and respectively reported median and mean ages of death of just over six years [ 48 , 49 ]. Analysis of mortality data from primary-care veterinary clinical records reported a median longevity of 7. Supporting a shorter lifespan overall in English Bulldogs, the current study reports the median age of English Bulldogs surveyed in 2. This could be partly explained by a population that skews towards young animals because of a growing popularity of the breed, as seen in steadily increasing Kennel Club registration figures over the last decade [ 21 ] and reported in primary-care veterinary practice [ 50 ]. However, given that only 9. Likewise, the disease predispositions reported in the current study for English Bulldogs show striking parallels to those previously attributed to the breed. For example, the disorder with the highest predisposition in the current study of English Bulldogs in was skin fold dermatitis, which was also the most frequently reported disease for Bulldogs in the BSAVA survey [ 20 ]. Similarly, the predisposition of the English Bulldog to prolapsed nictitating membrane gland and to entropion was recognised by veterinary ophthalmologists in [ 51 ]; these conditions were respectively the second and seventh highest disease predispositions in the current study of English Bulldogs in .Mandibular prognathism was the third highest predisposition of English Bulldogs in .Thus, the leading predispositions for disease in English Bulldogs, as determined by the current analysis of data, broadly correspond to disorders that have been long associated with the breed. This provides strong evidence supporting the validity of previous qualitative assessments of breed-related disease in English Bulldogs, but also revives the perennial question of why, since these diseases have been repeatedly documented as impairing Bulldog health for over a century, the breed nevertheless remains so commonly affected by these problems. In assessing which predispositions and protections to disease particularly differentiate English Bulldogs from the remaining general canine population, it is helpful to focus particularly on ultra-predispositions by breed: i. At the specific disorder level of analysis, the English Bulldog population in the current study showed ultra-predispositions to nine recorded disorders. Of these, four concerned diseases of the skin skin fold dermatitis, interdigital cyst, demodicosis and pododermatitis. These various dermatological conditions were necessarily differentiated by the different descriptors used by the originating primary care clinicians. When processing the data, each disorder was recorded once to the greatest possible level of clinical precision. However, these descriptors will inevitably potentially refer to similar or overlapping pathologies, and the certainty of the clinical diagnoses will not necessarily have been equally rigorous or precise in all cases. Therefore, it may be more justified to consider these linked and overlapping conditions at the grouped-level of skin disorders, where .These findings confirm that English Bulldogs carry substantially increased risk of skin disease compared with other dogs. While not all skin disease is directly related to exaggerated conformation, skin fold dermatitis, which by definition only occurs in folded skin, was the specific-level disorder to which English Bulldogs were most predisposed and showed a dramatically increased odds ratio of .Three ophthalmic conditions featured among the nine ultra-predispositions in English Bulldogs at the specific level of disorder: prolapsed nictitating membrane gland, keratoconjunctivitis sicca and entropion. A predisposition of English Bulldogs to entropion in-turned eyelids has been reported for over a hundred years [ 51 ]. This finding was confirmed by the current study, where 3. Entropion, like skin fold dermatitis, is commonly seen in brachycephalic breeds and is generally attributed to the excess facial skin that results from a foreshortened facial structure; hence, it is usually considered a conformation related disease [ 55 , 56 ]. Both prolapsed nictitating membrane gland and keratoconjunctivitis sicca were also reported in the current study as ultra-predispositions in English Bulldogs. A diagnosis of prolapsed nictitating membrane gland was .Yet, despite the greatly elevated odds ratio of prolapsed nictitating membrane gland in English Bulldogs, the 5. It may also reflect under-recording of prolapsed nictitating membrane gland in primary care clinical records. Consequently, dogs might be treated for this condition before sale or without the knowledge of primary care practices, potentially resulting in under-recording or under-diagnosis of this disorder in this study. Moreover, although several aetiopathological pathways are proposed for keratoconjunctivitis sicca, one possible cause is following the surgical treatment of a prolapsed nictitating membrane gland, particularly if the tissue is excised rather than replaced because the nictitating membrane gland contains secretory cells that contribute to lacrimal production [ 58 , 59 ]. Therefore, the ultra-predisposition to keratoconjunctivitis sicca noted in the current study may also reflect previous sub-optimal surgical treatment of prolapsed nictitating membrane gland. Thus, the ultra-predisposition of English Bulldogs to these two disorders in this study may be causally linked; further investigation of this association would inform future recommendations for the treatment of prolapsed nictitating membrane gland. The predisposition of English Bulldogs to BOAS is well documented [ 14 , 60 ], and is of sufficient clinical concern that The Kennel Club and the University of Cambridge have jointly launched a Respiratory Function Grading Scheme to facilitate selective breeding away from this condition in English Bulldogs and other brachycephalic breeds [ 61 ]. In the current study, despite a striking odds ratio of .While it is possible that this reflects biological difference between surveyed populations in different studies, it is much more likely that this discrepancy is chiefly due to normalisation of the condition in primary care practice [ 63 ]. Mandibular prognathism constitutes a different type of ultra-predisposition in the English Bulldog population surveyed and raises the thorny question of why a conformation that would be considered a serious health issue in one dog breed can be actively selected as a desirable trait in another. Although mandibular prognathism was the third highest predisposition recorded in the current study, with .English Bulldogs showed predispositions for .In comparison, French Bulldogs showed predispositions for .These results provide strong evidence supporting substantially poorer overall health in English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs compared to Labrador Retrievers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Although dogs had long been divided into loosely-recognised types, the concept of clearly differentiated and strictly delineated breeds was an invention of the Victorian era [ 2 ]. In consequence, the modern breeds that we know today can be ranked along a spectrum from mild to extreme conformational exaggeration, ranging from canine-typical mild conformational exaggeration to canine-divergent severe conformational exaggeration [ 13 , 14 ]. The combined proportion of predispositions and protections to disease within a breed could be used as a measure of overall health divergence between that breed and the mainstream canine population. Using this measure, English Bulldogs showed health divergence from other dogs for .French Bulldogs showed a similarly high level of health divergence, differing in .In comparison, Labrador Retrievers differed from other dogs for .The two Bulldog breeds with extreme brachycephaly thus both showed notably higher predispositions to disease as well as more disease divergence from other dogs than either Labrador Retrievers or Staffordshire Bull Terriers, although predispositions were relatively higher among English Bulldogs and protections among French Bulldogs. In contrast, neither Labrador Retrievers nor Staffordshire Bull Terriers showed any ultra-predispositions to disease at all, with their highest predispositions being an odds ratio of 2. Overall, therefore, these measures of disease predispositions, divergences and ultra-predispositions seen in English Bulldogs reveal a worrying story of a breed with more disease predispositions than other dogs, which differs widely from other dogs in their patterns of disease and is characterised by several ultra-predispositions to disease. With many of these ultra-predispositions to disease in the English Bulldog being linked to their characteristic extreme physical features, these results broadly confirm an unchanging link between exaggerated conformation and disease first flagged as a concern over a century ago [ 3 ]. All breeds, by definition, are different in some ways from the average for the canine population and therefore are likely to show some breed predispositions to, and protections from, disease [ 6 , 8 ]. It is also surprising that a breed with a high prevalence of many other descriptors for skin disease has an apparent protection for pruritus: perhaps this descriptor was subsumed within other more clinically precise descriptors, such as dermatitis or atopic dermatitis, and hence appears artefactually low. It may be that the recorded protection for periodontal disease and dental disorder is linked to the normalisation phenomena described above, but this conclusion is speculative. Other apparent protections for heart murmur and lipoma may indicate true disease protections in the breed, which could be explored in future studies. Over recent years, The Kennel Club has made concerted efforts to alleviate drivers for extreme conformation from the show-ring. Moreover, The Kennel Club breed standard for the English Bulldog has undergone iterative revisions over recent decades, intended to modify its wording to encourage the selection of dogs towards less extreme conformation [ 8 ]. Given that only a third of UK dogs are estimated to be registered with The Kennel Club [ 21 ]; and that even among this registered subset only a very small proportion are specifically bred for the show-ring [ 75 ], the impact of these measures on the general population of English Bulldogs is likely to be minimal. Although show-ring practices have undoubtedly had a profound historical influence in determining the shape of the modern English Bulldog [ 3 ], and most dogs described as English Bulldogs today will ultimately be descended from dogs bred for the show-ring in the past, it is easy to overstate the current significance of the show world and Kennel Club breed standard among English Bulldog breeders. While breed standard modifications are to be welcomed, they directly drive change only in the show population, and even then only if judges abide by them [ 76 ]. The show Bulldog community argues that its enthusiasts now discourage ultra-extreme conformation and that judges are instructed not to award prizes to dogs with obvious physical compromise. Further research is needed to investigate the social factors and local subcultures that drive and differentiate these breeding priorities, and how best to encourage behavioural change in each group. The current study had some limitations in addition to those previously reported for the application of primary care veterinary data for canine research [ 39 , 77 ]. This study relied on the breed identifications recorded on veterinary practice databases. The English Bulldogs in the current study included dogs registered with The Kennel Club as well those that are not. The study dogs are therefore likely to show a range of conformations, ranging from ultra-extreme to relatively moderate, that are consistent with our current acceptance of what constitutes an English Bulldog. Disorder risk for English Bulldogs was compared against all remaining dogs that were not English Bulldogs. Given that .This may have led to a masking effect for disorders linked to the brachycephalic conformation in the current study and suggests that the true levels of predisposition to disorders linked to brachycephaly in the English Bulldog could be much higher than reported here. Future work could include prospective cohort studies that compare disorder predisposition between English Bulldogs with moderate conformation and English Bulldogs with extreme conformation to evaluate potential welfare gains from conformational change within the breed. Repeating the current study design at defined intervals could also monitor real-world changes in the health of the English Bulldog over time following efforts by UK national groups such as the Brachycephalic Working Group [ 27 ]. Conclusions In providing further evidence that English Bulldogs experience unusually high levels of disease and show multiple predispositions and ultra-predispositions to disease, much of which is intrinsically related to their conformation, this study broadly confirms long-standing assertions that the health and welfare of English Bulldog is heavily compromised. Yet, despite extensive evidence and wide dissemination of the health issues and their serious negative welfare impacts for these dogs, it seems that many prospective owners are still not discouraged from English Bulldog ownership [ 41 , 42 ]. Members Area Buying a Puppy First of all, before buying a puppy, research the breed thoroughly, there are lots of books published about owning bulldogs check out our library and there is a wealth of information on many individual websites. Be sure that the character and the lifestyle you lead matches up to owning a Bulldog, whose breed characteristics are a companion dog that thrives on human company, sleeping a lot is how most people view the breed but in reality a young Bulldog is every bit as active and boisterous as any breed of puppy. If left alone for long periods it can be destructive out of boredom! You'll find some good resources on our Publication page but also read the articles below. The best and recommended way is to look for the secretary of your local bulldog club on this site www. Enquire when their next shows are and go to see a show. There are two main types of show where you may meet some breeders. Open shows where the atmosphere is very informal, and Championship Shows where the dogs have serious winning potential and these are very competitive. Once there you can watch the dogs and speak to the many breeders around some of whom may be expecting a litter or have one at home. Expect to be quizzed as most caring breeders are very particular to which homes their puppies are sold. Read all you can about the breed and try to buy from someone who comes highly recommended. Reputable breeders do not have to advertise so you will not find them in the pages of the local newspaper or bargain pages, you will probably have to travel and you will probably have to wait. You are purchasing a member of your family, hopefully for the next 9 years [average] so a few months wait for the right dog will be worth it. See the puppy with its mother and its litter mates. Dog or Bitch? Things to consider before you choose: If you are thinking of showing your pet it is wise to start with a very good pedigree bitch as there are no guarantees with this breed that at 9 weeks a future show winner can be picked, a sound healthy bitch can be bred from in the future if she doesn't quite make it as a show dog. Bitches are not as impressive as dogs but if you purchase a dog and he doesn't make it in the show ring you can't move on from him without a further purchase. If, however, you want a pet, a dog can be the most faithful loving companion you could have. Bitches have seasons and this can be messy and if you have another male dog it can mean separating them for 3 weeks twice a year or spaying, this can be difficult. They carry on having seasons every 6 months for life. It is worth thinking carefully before you decide to buy a puppy. There should be no difference in the price of a dog or bitch unlike some other breeds which generally charge more for bitches. Breeding Terms Some breeders are selling bitches with breeding contracts, some of these may work out fine but if you agree to this there are proper legal forms from the Kennel Club where the terms and arrangements are laid out and signed for at the time of purchase. Do not enter into any verbal agreements not covered by these forms as in 15 months when the breeder will want you to breed your bitch you may have forgotten or disagree the terms. This can be a very stressful time and involve solicitors if you do not have the original agreement in writing. Many enemies are made in the dog world over this matter. Paperwork The pedigree is just the family tree; you need a Kennel Club registered document, make sure you see it. Ask if the puppy is being sold using a Breed Council Puppy Contract. Vet Check Take your new puppy to your own vet within 48 hours of purchasing it and have it health checked, inform the breeder immediately if there are any problems. It is advisable that your new puppy has already received its first vaccination before it leaves the breeder where it should have already been checked for general health. Join your local Bulldog Club you will receive independent help and advice if you run into problems and you will make new friends who share your love of this wonderful breed.Important Information When you buy a pedigree puppy you need and are entitled to be given the Kennel Club Registration Document by the seller which ensures the details of the puppies parents are verified at the Kennel Club. It is, at present, a green document with the Kennel Club insignia on it. As a pet it may not seem important but cross bred puppies are often sold as pedigree, which really is only the 'Family Tree' All pedigree breeds of dog have certain breed specific problems, responsible breeders are aware of these and will hopefully try to breed to minimise the problems by having their breeding stock checked by a veterinarian before breeding puppies. However with the best care possible sometimes things crop up from the ancestors so all we can do is our best with what we can see. The mother of the puppies and the ancestors will have a huge input too!! The utmost importance is the temperament of the mother and the general attitude of the puppy. Bulldog mums are very protective of their tiny defenceless puppies but by the time the puppies are ready to sell she should be outgoing and friendly towards you. A properly socialised puppy should, after first weighing you up, be approachable and keen to play and be petted by you. At this age if they are not sleeping or eating they are chewing, nipping in play, this is normal and can be quite boisterous, a toy or chew to bite should be offered in place of your hand or feet as this behaviour on skin has to be curbed. Bulldog puppies are usually sold at weeks of age. They should have received their first immunisation, been examined by a veterinarian and been micro chipped. The breeder should offer you a puppy contract on which should be detailed advice on feeding, worming and general problems in the breed. The pedigree family tree of the dog and its registration at the Kennel Club should be available for inspection. Characteristics to look for: Wide Open Nostrils, this will enable better breathing and reduce much of the noisy breathing bulldogs have bad press about. A small nose roll or a split one is preferable. Heavy nose rolls and folds all increase the risk of skin problems as bacteria grows in sweaty folds, big nose rolls look cute but can become infected, they requires daily care as the puppy becomes an adult. However even large nose rolls can reduce as the puppy grows. Watch the bulldog run in the garden. It should move freely and not be unduly breathless. This may produce problems later in life such as infection as it is difficult to clean under a tight tail. The ideal is a straight tail. Eye problems are quite common in the breed. Beware of the puppy that blinks a lot or has heavy tear stains at weeks although the staining may be aggravated by sweating. The construction of the puppy should be nicely balanced with a good neck length [for breathing] and a back of moderate length. As they approach 5 months of age, they should be showing some shape, active puppies become more muscular and less flabby which will be better for their health. Big framed bulldogs does not mean obese so weight guides are all in proportion to the skeleton of the dog in question, if the mother is large there is a possibility that the puppy will be of good size when full grown. Depending on why you are buying a dog should decide whether you buy a dog or bitch puppy. If you want to start showing, buy the best possible bitch with as good a pedigree as you can find. Study the bulldog standard and learn what the show ring requires. If you buy a promising dog and he does not turn out you must make another purchase whereas with a bitch you have the chance to breed something better. For a pet, one cannot beat the male bulldog. He will be more impressive to look at as the breed characteristics of males mean their heads are larger and they are extremely faithful loving and companionable. You need to see its official registration and have the dog signed over to you. His chipped and comes with a cage, bed, bowels n stand, lead, harness, training lead, toys, paw n wrinkle cream, jabs records. .Read More Olde English bulldogge Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 8SH Hi all so unfortunately we are having to rehome our beautiful girl we rehomed her ourselves due to not getting on with the owners other dogs we have now realised she is not good at all with younger ch.Read More Beautiful kc registered English bulldog puppies Weoley castle, West Midlands B29 5LA Beautiful English bulldog puppies looking for their forever homes We have 5 girls and 2 boy left they are fully health checked, microchipped, Flea and dewormed and had their first injection get second.Read More 10 week englsish bulldog Swanssa, Swansea DA2 6LL Beautiful chocolate and tan engliah bulldog her name is coco brought up in family home she has had first injection and has been microchipped we have kc paperwork and she uses puppy pads please only en.Read More English bulldog puppies Birmingham, West Midlands B98 9AE We are proud to announce our loverly bitch has gave birth to 7 outstanding puppies 5 boys and 2girls all outstanding puppies mum is our loving family pet and dad is a stud from a friend of mine both a.Fully vaccinated and microchipped, wormed and flead. Read More British bulldog puppies kc registered ready 13th may Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST6 8JU Stunning chunky British bulldog puppies ready for there forever loving homes 13th may Both mum and dad are fantastic family pets Puppies will be Kc registered Micro chipped Wormed to date and flea tre.Read More.

A 12 Month Old son of our great Apollo. He is a clone of his father. Big, thick monster. He is only 12 months old so now is the time you need to set boundaries. He has just started to come into adulthood. Because he is only 12 months you can now correct him and let him know you are the leader and the alpha. He was pretty much that sweet puppy that is now a serious dog and past owners were just not this type of people. Soft if you will. A dream dog. Because he was left to his own accord, he had no leader and basically thought it was his job to protect the family growing up. Which is the wrong process for a serious GSD. Now that he is here he is great, no issues, someone just needs to take him over as new owners and follow my instructions. Anyone like me will not have any probs at all. He is the dog and you are the owner. No nonsenses dog. It is not his house it is your house. They are not his toys, they are your toys etc…. I have no issues from the time he was returned. Not one! He is too young to be neutered but it is required within a year. He comes from great lines, awesome pedigree. His parents are below. He was the top of his litter, has very rich pigmentation just like dad. He is the real deal. Better off with only older kids in the house say past 12 and up. Likes females of course. He is an alpha dog so no males. Knowing his father like the back of my hand. He knows his territory, so he is protective of it and his people! I would say no cats either. Other female large dog would be ok. He is actually nervous of new people so socialization slowly is good. He was bought during covid and this was part of the problem. Because he is only 12 it is definitely not to late for him. Walks would be awesome. Just use to a yard and pulled owner. Again to me he was perfect from day one. He knows I am a leader. Great dog, need his forever good home. He is available today! All Vaccines up to date he needs nothing more the rest of his life! 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. He is very people-oriented and aims to please! Winnetou impresses because of his well above average substance, strong bone, powerful chest, huge head, and overall large size. He has a strong straight back and correct angulations front and rear. His luxurious long coat with mahogany red and deep black markings adds to his handsome looks. He comes from the highest rated litter in the world - a World Champion father and a World Vice Champion mother - one does not come across an opportunity to get a puppy from such breeding very often. Additional pictures of Winnetou: Pic 1 , Pic 2 , Pic 3. Focused and loyal, and with a strong mother- and fatherline background, we expect Luna to be very easy to train, be it as an Obedience or SaR dog, or as a family companion. Luna's disposition is very sweet and loving, people-oriented and with a strong desire to please. She is polite and friendly with other dogs, plays well with children, and is such a pleasure to be around. Luna impresses with her deep pigment on a red-sable coat, powerful head and strong bone, intelligent expression, and really pleasing to the eye angulations front and rear. Both Luna's parents are accomplished Schutzhund dogs, and are excellent producers. Additional picture of Luna: Pic 1. Focused and loyal, and with a strong working line background, we expect Liska to make us proud. Aside from her working qualities, Liska impresses with her fantastic pigment, intelligent expression, beautiful topline, and really pleasing to the eye angulations front and rear. A harmonious structure like this is a rare find in a working line breeding today. Both Liska's parents are accomplished Schutzhund dogs, and are excellent producers. He is alert, already gives a warning bark, and is very playful. He has especially dark face and beautiful overall markings. He has excellent harmony of build, beautiful topline and correct angulations. Ray is very confident and absolutely loves to be involved with everything you do. He is currently enrolled in our puppy obedience program and is extremely eager to learn. Very energetic responses to commands and upbeat performance. Ray is crate trained and lives with us in the house. Should succeed in shows, Agility, or any other dog-sport and is suitable for an active family. The mother of these puppies comes from the same exact bloodlines as our best producing female Quana and has the same fantastic temperament. We were very fortunate to be able to bring this fantastic puppy to the States. He is linebred on VA4 Ando vom Altenberger Land, one of my absolute favorite pillars of the breed, known for his healthy mentality and excellent hip production. Picture of the mother during her lifetime Koerung. Watch video of Ray here! Harmonious structure with fantastic angulations. He is very eager to please, and is a loving, playful pup, with medium level of energy. He is currently enrolled in our puppy obedience program and shows excellent attention to the handler and desire to please. He is calm enough to focus well on the task at hand. Ricco is crate trained and lives in the house. Excellent show and Schutzhund prospect, and of course could also excel in Agility, Obedience, or as a loving family companion. Watch video of Ricco here! He has a very handsome head with dark eyes, correctly set ears and alert expression. His structure is impeccable, with strong back, long and well positioned croup, beautiful shoulder and correct angulation. Ingo's movement is breathtakingly free, with excellent outreach and powerful hindthrust. Ingo has completed his basic obedience and is in training now in off-leash obedience. He has excellent strong drives and is a very good Schutzhund prospect as well. Ingo will alert about strangers or noise, but is, at the same time, a friendly dog. He will bond quickly to his new owner and is very playful, but being a teenage boy, he still needs some firm guidance, as he still nips. Ingo will play well with strong dogs of comparable size. He is neutered and is looking for an owner who preferably has experience with the breed and appreciates a male with strong character and working abilities. Dark face and overall strong pigment. Perfect outgoing and friendly temperament - fearless, attentive, eager to please. He is not fazed by loud noises, has excellent drives, and will retrieve. He is exactly what we like to see in a puppy of his age from German bloodlines: balanced combination of brains and beauty. Darko von Vierhundert Hertz German Shepherd puppy. Her colors are unreal hues of mahogany with extreme jet black pigmentation. Anyone who meets her is at awe at how beautiful she is. Uschka is very sociable, confident and outgoing, and as a true Shepherd, she already barks at strangers that approach our fence before she meets and becomes instant friends with them, that is. She needs an owner who understands and likes the true working German Shepherd character. She has a very powerful and intelligent expression, extremely dark eyes, exceptional mahogany red and black pigment, and top structure. Excellent top-line, correct angulations, harmonious proportions - this girl has got it going on. She has sweet and friendly disposition, but will already give a warning bark when strangers approach her fenced-in yard. Penny loves to play, being petted, or just quietly lay by my feet when I'm busy at my desk. She still thinks she can fit in my lap! Penny's preliminary hip and elbow x-rays look perfect. She was hand-picked out of a nice uniform litter where there were 9 female puppies total. Very typical of her father in her expression, deep red and black pigment, and solid, harmonious structure. As stunning as Pearl is, she is also friendly, self-confident, and outgoing puppy with nice drives. She has good protective instincts. That, combined with lots of pigment makes a stunning combination. She already warns us when someone is aproaching the house, is very intelligent, and eager to please. She is correctly and beautifully structured with high wither and is very well balanced. Her color is very deep red and black. Geneva is very affectionate, playful, and has excellent play drive. Her intelligence and eagerness will make her very easy to train. Very strongly pigmented, with black mask and beautiful red markings. Very well balanced structure with correct height to length proportions, and excellent angulation front and rear. Etna is a very good natured girl who is extremely willing to please. She is very playful and loves squeaky toys, or any kind of toys for that matter. She is very affectionate. She knows "Sit," comes running when I call her, and is house and crate trained. She walks wonderfully on the leash and is a total joy to have around. Gretta is very sweet and affectionate. She loves to play with our older dogs and is very attentive to me. Her intelligence and eagerness will make her very easy to train and very easy to live with. She is very solidly built, with huge heavy bone. Her expression is very typical of her father Yash. She has excellent confident and playful character and loves my attention. She will often come, sit in front of me and look into my face, which indicates great attentiveness, focus, and desire to please. Very intelligent. She has a distinctive black mask and strong expression. She will have jet-black saddle with deep red markings, and awesome pigment. Her structure is correct, with perfect topline. She loves to play and wrestle with her siblings and explore in the yard. She is very expressive and is a lot of fun. She is the type of a dog that is very devoted to her family, but may take some time to warm up to strangers. She loves to play in the kiddy pool, comes when called, and we have started to work on some formal obedience with her. With her strong bone and especially large head, she looks like a male! She is very nicely pigmented and has a luxirious full coat. Even at this young age she has a wide, outreaching, and ballanced gait. She loves to play, loves to follow me around, and especially loves to sit on my lap. She just loves people. She is extremely intelligent, active, and outgoing, and is very well on her way to be housetrained. Both of Jamaica's parents have solid proven temperaments both are SchH3 and have the best possible rating for hips and elbows a1. Expected ZW for Jamaica is 73! Additional photos: Pic1 Pic2 Pic3 Jamaica is now finished with her puppy course - please watch her off-leash obedience video here! She has fantastic structure and moves like she was born for the show ring. Her color is deep mahogany red so typical of the Zamp bloodline. She is very inquisitive and outgoing, and quite active. When I took her out of her crate at the airport, she wanted to see everybody and everything, which included climbing into a small maintenance truck! She is fearless, but has a soft side too - very loving and affectionate girl. Joice is 7 months old in these pictures. She has great expression, harmonious structure, and very fluid movement. She is a very gentle and loving girl, and I grew really attached to her while she was with us. I took her with me everywhere I went, and she did a very nice job ajusting to the new surroundings. He is very handsome with an exceptional dark face and red color. We expect him to grow to be of that perfect medium size that is so desirable today in the show ring. He has nice strong bone. His ears set very high, and he has good expression. He is very curious, active, and agile, and he definitely has a mind of his own. He is very affectionate with children and adults and very gentle. Gets along very well with other dogs. He has good prey drive too. He walks nicely on the leash, knows "Sit," is housetrained, and is done with all his puppy shots. This website was created by Template-Online. All rights reserved.

On a property in Candler County, Georgia, more than German shepherds were locked up in filthy, muddy pens so they could be bred and have their puppies sold for profit. Atlanta Humane Society Once local residents became aware of this puppy mill , which was illegally run by a woman named Belinda Powell, they started contacting authorities and urging them to shut her operation down. Powell ran an additional puppy mill on a property in Montgomery County, Georgia, which also had more than German shepherds. Atlanta Humane Society Help finally arrived for the dogs in early January. Powell was arrested, and local authorities, working with multiple rescue groups, started to take the dogs off the property. Jessica Rock, director of legal advocacy and law enforcement support at the Atlanta Humane Society , was part of the team who went to the Candler County property. Atlanta Humane Society Rock and a whole team of rescuers from various organizations worked tirelessly to remove each and every dog from the property, get them medical help and put them into shelters or foster homes. I can put my game face on, and I can do what needs to be done to get those animals out of there, but then when I come home and decompress a little bit.Some dogs have even been adopted by loving families already. By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy. Cookie Settings. Belinda Powell, said to be a dog breeder, was charged after the animals were discovered on two properties she owns in Georgia's Candler and Montgomery counties, according to WSBTV. The dogs were rescued by the Atlanta Humane Society and local police departments on Saturday and Sunday, according to reports. Animal Law Source founder Claudine Wilkins, who was on site during the rescue, told the news station that the animal rescuers were 'walking in mud and feces up to our knees' when they went to retrieve the dogs. Not only that, but the igloo structures that Powell had set out for the dogs to take shelter in 'were submerged in water. So, there was no place for these dogs to stand in a dry spot. While some of the dogs are expected to be fine, others suffered from serious injuries, including one dog that had 'mucked up eyes' and could hardly see because they were 'all clouded over,' according to Wilkins. All dogs were given a basic medical exam on-site, the Atlanta Human Society said , noting that the dogs that were most in need of medical attention were transported to the organization's facilities in Alpharetta and West Midtown for treatment. He was born in a cruel commercial breeding facility located in Montgomery County, Indiana, soon separated from his mother and loaded into a panel van. The van was packed with other puppies on their way to be delivered to pet stores on the East Coast. A towing company and several state troopers rescued the puppies and transported them to a safe location. Miraculously most of the puppies, though likely frightened, were physically unharmed. He was triaged as needing immediate medical care, wrapped in warm towels and quickly driven to the local veterinary hospital. Chance was diagnosed with a broken jaw, a crushed right nasal passage, crooked eyes and significant blood loss. I met Chance in the hospital two days after the accident. He was still suffering major injuries. I decided to adopt him that day. The next few days were a struggle. But after I visited him, encouraged him to fight harder, and held him in my arms for hours in the recovery room, he started to make progress. The next week he was stable enough to be taken home. Chance was put on a special diet and monitored, yet the problems persisted. After further bloodwork, he was diagnosed with Pituitary Dwarfism. Chance remains the size of a very large Beagle. He will be on growth hormone treatments every six weeks for the rest of his life—which most likely will not be longer than five years. Puppy mill operators care more about profits than puppies. Responsible breeders do not sell their puppies to pet stores. All dogs deserve the good life—but as long as the secretive puppy-breeding industry continues to hide the truth, too many dogs will remain victims of its cruelty. Visit aspca. Share Your Story Did you purchase a puppy from a pet store or online? Did you rescue a puppy mill dog? Your story and photos could aid us tremendously as we work to educate the public and expose inhumane breeders. By Blog Editor on July 27, with 10 Comments Because justice is so often delayed for puppy mill animals, lawmakers in many states have started taking action themselves to stop this cruelty. Marilyn Shepherd a. Marilyn Williams and her Cedercrest Kennel a. Pup 4 U had operated without a federal license from the U. Department of Agriculture for more than 20 years, and without a state license from Missouri for six months. She had appeared five times in our annual Horrible Hundred report on problem puppy mills in the United States and we had repeatedly complained about her facility to the USDA, which is charged with inspecting commercial breeding facilities that sell online or through pet stores. During this time Shepherd likely had hundreds of dogs at her operation—dogs who, by all accounts, were denied the most basic care. When Missouri finally moved to shut down her kennel on July 14, she had adult dogs and 60 puppies on the premises. This is the sixth Missouri puppy mill from our annual Horrible Hundred report that the attorney general has moved to shut down in recent years. In a press release , Mr. Schmitt promised to continue fighting such abuse, which is great news. Action against Shepherd has been long overdue. Her operation first appeared on our Horrible Hundred report in .She had so many federal violations that the USDA refused to renew her license in , and she was permanently barred from obtaining a new USDA license in .Still, Shepherd continued to sell puppies all over the country via her Pups4U website until recently. And all this time Missouri continued to renew her state license until earlier this year. We are happy that Shepherd will finally be made to answer for the pain and suffering she has caused. Because justice is so often delayed for puppy mill animals, lawmakers in many states have started taking action themselves to stop this cruelty. In recent years, three states, California, Maryland and Maine, and more than different localities , have ended the sale of puppies in pet stores altogether. In New York, where the Senate last week passed a bill to ban the sales of puppies, kittens and rabbits in pet stores by a landslide margin of 48 to 12, momentum for such a ban is building. The state Assembly will revisit the legislation in January. The war against puppy mills is one we are fighting on so many fronts, including in the courts, state legislatures, municipalities, through our pet store investigations and by raising awareness about the animal cruelty these operations perpetrate, through our Horrible Hundred report. Our Puppy-Friendly Pet Stores program works with pet stores around the nation to help them switch from selling puppies to adopting out dogs and cats from local shelters. The reason breeders like Marilyn Shepherd stay in business and are able to cash in on the suffering of animals is that so many people are still captivated by the doggie in the window of a pet store, or by a cute photo on the internet, and we are hard at work to educate consumers to start looking only to responsible breeders and to shelters and rescues when they want to bring an animal home. Our work on each one of these fronts will continue full-steam until we win the war against puppy mills. It is shocking that Petland should benefit from a massive influx of taxpayer cash when it has consistently refused to do the right thing by its customers and pay veterinary costs to people it has sold sick puppies to. Just last week, we reported that seven families are suing Petland in South Carolina for selling them sick puppies. Some spent thousands of dollars to treat their dogs, not to mention the distress they endured in watching their beloved pet suffer. The breeder, Angela Powell, 51, has been charged with animal cruelty, and dozens of rescue groups, including the Nassau County Humane Society, are stepping in to help the dogs recover. The German Shepherds were found living in what investigators described as deplorable conditions in rural Georgia. The animals arrived in Nassau County Sunday night. Investigators said the conditions were so deplorable at one location that the breeder is now facing animal cruelty charges. Authorities said Powell bonded out of jail, but more charges are expected against her. A Candler County Georgia spokesman said Sheriff John Miles learned about possible cruelty to animals on Powell's property and called in investigators, who obtained a search warrant and found dogs on her property. Booking photo of Angela Powell "These animals were living in just fields of muck and dirt, bugs everywhere, barely any shelter and so many of them crowded together," McDonald said. According to the Humane Society, this was a breeding and hoarding situation where most of the dogs have never been on a leash or in a home. All the animals need extensive medical care before they will be healthy enough for foster homes and adoptions. The Nassau Humane Society will take in more German Shepherds from a larger property involved in the case in the next few weeks. If you're not going to adopt and go to a breeder, please know what kind of conditions these animals are in," McDonald said. Are they just being used over and over again to just reproduce? Do they have basic shelter? An Amazon Wish List has been created for people to donate directly. Some of the items on the wish list include dog food, treats and leashes. To view the complete list, click here. About the Authors:. No longer able to produce puppies and suffering from degenerating hips, the farmer called the kind-hearted volunteers at Finding Shelter Animal Rescue to pick her up. Victoria's story gets a little more heartbreaking -- a littermate bit her in the left eye when she was just a puppy and never received medical care -- she has since been blind in that eye. But a happy ending is in sight! As Victoria was being picked up by Finding Shelter's president, Grace Kelly Herbert, she found that the dog wouldn't allow volunteers to touch her. Frightened and growling, Victoria was taken directly to the vet where she was treated for fleas and given vaccines. Since there is no cure for Victoria's degenerative myelopathy which affects her hind legs, she is considered a hospice case and was only given another six months to a year to live. In the video below shared by the rescue staff, Victoria can be seen playing with a chew toy in the couple's yard for the very first time. Keep up with the wonderful work Finding Shelter is doing on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and their official website. We have two German Shepherd family dogs. They enjoy farm life where they get plenty of fresh air, sunshine and tons of exercise. We are not a puppy mill nor are we a kennel. About once a year we breed them. They will also be given their first shots. Balance is due when the puppy is picked up. Puppies are very beautiful, smart and love to be with people. A few of our puppies have been sold to families with special needs of a service dog. Besides being excellent family dogs, we believe our puppies are intelligent to perform many different fields of work such as herding, hunting and a variety of police work. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions. We believe a farm is not complete without a dog. For many years now we have owned German shepherds and have come to value them for their intelligence, loyalty and beauty. We started breeding German Shepherds in after buying three registered dogs from a kennel that was going out of business. Today, while we no longer have those dogs, we have moved on and purchased others to take their places. Our German shepherds are well mannered, loyal and protective. They are house dogs but absolutely love going out on the farm and helping us with chores. They love water and are excellent jumpers. Having wonderful temperaments, they are also good with children. Now, in addition to the above, they are producing some very fine puppies. We are pleased to introduce: Shane.

Frenchies with tan points - black and tan Frenchie, blue and tan Frenchie, lilac and tan Frenchie, chocolate and tan Frenchie etc. Trindles - French Bulldogs which have brindle in their tan points. All black French Bulldogs - with no trace of brindle is also quite rare. How do you Artificially Inseminate a French bulldog? For the majority of dog breeds, natural mating is the most effective and cheapest way to produce a litter of puppies. This is not the scenario for French bulldogs. French bulldogs have unusually small hips and an oversized head. This makes it quite difficult for the male to mount the female naturally. When it comes to breeding French bulldogs, artificial insemination is the safest and most effective way. Caesarean sections for Frenchies One of the reasons why French bulldogs are quite expensive is because of the cost involved in birthing one. For Frenchies a C-section is usually considered the safest option. Caesarean section or C-section will involve the use of surgery to deliver the puppies. This is often necessary when a vaginal delivery will be too unsafe for the dam or the puppy or both. The oversized heads of the puppies and narrow pelvis of the dam makes it difficult for the dog to give birth naturally. What is the minimum mating age for French Bulldogs? Age of maturity differs from one dog breed to another. It has however been found that small breeds mature faster than large breeds. Male French bulldogs become fertile after about six months old. They can also reach full sexual maturity by 12 to 15 months. If your male Frenchie is healthy, he may even remain sexually active and fertile at old age. For your dam, their first heat season estrus comes after six months. In some situations though, this estrus has delayed for up to 18 months or even two years of age. The heat season of your dam should come at intervals of six months until old age. It is however considered controversial and against standard to breed your dam in her first season. According to the American Kennel Club Rules the registration of a litter out of a dam less than 8 months or more than 12 years of age is not ordinarily allowed. What is the Cycle of a French Bulldog Dam? Knowing the cycle of your female is necessary. This will help you track her reproductive periods. The cycle of a dam is divided into four: Proestrus: Your dam is in her proestrus when she has a bloody vaginal discharge and her vulva becomes swollen. This is when she attracts males, not for breeding. This period lasts for about nine days. Estrus: This follows the proestrus and also lasts for about nine days. During this time the female is fertile and will allow breeding. For breeding purposes, please note that ovulation will usually occur in the first 48 hours of this period. It is a period of about 60 to 63 days. It will occur whether or not your dam becomes pregnant. If your female becomes pregnant during estrus, the diestrus stage will last until she whelps or gives birth. False pregnancy is however also possible during this period. In this situation, your Dam may show signs of being pregnant even though she is not. Anestrus: This period lasts between three to four months. During this time, no sexual activity takes place. After the Estrus, you have to look for signs of pregnancy in your dam. These signs include an increase in appetite, weight, or nipple size. This is however not that conclusive in itself. As mentioned earlier, your dam may show pregnancy signs and still not be pregnant. A Vet can make this confirmation for you by conductingan ultrasound or X-ray or by examining her abdominal palpitation at 28 days. Once you have confirmed that your dam is pregnant, you have to start talking to the Vet about the special attention required for breeding a French bulldog. This will include how to identify emergency situations that would require immediate medical attention. This should also include details about her labor and what to expect after she gives birth. French bulldogs are like any other dog breed when it comes to pregnancy length. This period should last between 58 to 68 days. The average pregnancy period is usually 63 days from the day of conception. This is about two months altogether. A few days close to birthing, your dam may stop eating or have reduced appetite. Approximately 24 hours after her temperature drops,she can be expected to enter the first stage of labor when the cervix dilates and opens the birth canal for the passage of puppies. At this time, she will pant, strain, and appear restless. A few moments to birth, her body temperature may drop to 99 degrees or lower. This stage is then followed by actual abdominal straining and birthing. As mentioned above natural birth is not recommended for French Bulldogs due to their breathing difficulties and small hips coupled with larger puppy heads. Compared to other dogs that birth quite a sizable number of puppies, French bulldogs only birth a few. When breeding a French bulldog, the number of puppies you can expect in the litter will range from 3 to 5. There are some rare instances where French bulldogs have birthed as high as 7 puppies. French bulldogs are naturally small breeds. As such, a smaller number of litter mates would mean better conditions for the puppies inside the womb. The complications that may arise out of doing this will not only endanger the female, it may also create avoidable birth defects for the puppies. What is a pup back deal between French Bulldog breeders? A pup back deal is a puppy back to the Frenchie stud owner in exchange for the stud service. In most cases a puppy back is not ideal and can fall through for many reasons. If you insist on doing this type of deal you should consider the following to protect yourself: Always have a contract no matter who it is, even if it is a relative. Wording is very important. It is advisable to have a lawyer draft a sample agreement for you that you can use for future deals. Only make this deal with someone local that you really trust and have a relationship with. Open lines of communication is key. Always keep in mind that if the deal fall through for any reason it may sour the relationship so ask yourself if that deal is worth it to you. And finally know that not everyone is an honest person but on the same token not everyone is a dishonest person either. How do you know if two French Bulldog puppies are twins? It is rare but it does happen. How do we determine whether or not two French Bulldogs are identical twins? When the mother Frenchie dog is giving birth, count the placentas. If two newborn Frenchie puppies share a placenta there is a good chance you have some identical twins on your hands. If you want to know for sure your puppies are identical twins you can confirm that with a blood test. This is it for this Pawsletter. We hope you enjoyed reading or listening to this article and hope you learned something new along the way. We create these to educate, and inspire you to be the best French Bulldog owner you can be. If you want us to write about a particular topic please let us know below. Also don't forget to pawscribe to our email list. We always notify our loyal customers and friends with any new Pawsletter, event or announcement. We live in Oregon and will travel to Washington or northern California if needed. Michelle July 25, I have a tan Merle male looking to stud out in about months. I live in Oregon. JP July 10, Hello! Juan July 10, Hello! Please if anyone is interested to breed with my handsome boy you can contact me by email or text. Email denise. Thank you all and have a blessed one. In Houston, Texas!!! Julie June 23, Hello, in about a year I will be looking for a stud to mate with my two girls. I will need a stud that has had all his genetic testing plus eyes and hips. I live in California. He has a champion bloodline. Please contact me if interested. Misty June 23, We have a Blue brindle male with amber colored eyes and a blue piebald with blue eyes… just wondering what colors they may throw. Jason Lebron December 21, I have a blue Merle frenchie who will be 1 in January and I am excited to find his lover. Contact me anytime at or cruzpet Bronx ny bucks Lebron Rebekah Axelson December 14, I have a 3 yr old fawn male with black mask, black ears with white on his breast. Very muscular with lean and great personality. He has had DNA testing and has no allergies we know of. He has only in the last 7 months become extremely sexually driven with a need to breed. Because of his stamina and fit we feel having him fixed may take some of this away. .We have purchased aggressive chew toys and they usually work but there are days that the Boston terrier across the street goes into heat and he becomes very antsy and will even try to relieve himself. I would like to stud him for a puppy to have grow up with him preferably a female but not for breeding purposes. .I would then talk about options for having him neutered. I can also stud him for the possibility of buying a puppy with the stud fee. .I want what is best for him and feel he is a great color, fit and intelligent guy that having a litter would benefit him, myself and the Frenchie breed. Yet my goal and main concern is to give him relief without having him neutered at only 3 yrs Mary November 17, Hi, I have a 1. Thanks Hope November 12, We have a beautiful 8 month old male, who is a blue merle we are looking to offer stud service in the near future! Amazing quality, structure and genetics. If interest please contact me at for pictures and more info. Toure November 02, I have a 9 month old male frenchie fawn with the black mask that I am looking to breed in the NYC area. He has beautiful coloring and a spunky spirit. Warthog71 Excellent article! We have a brand new litter at 39 days old. The other girls have brown. All blue eyes may change to green. All pups carry Choco from the dad Isabella. The mom is standard Black Mask Fawn. All pups have their first round of deworming and are already eating solid food, though still nursing from mom, as is necessary for development. They are playing and curious and socializing like any normal, healthy litter. Contact for more info on this litter, future litters or stud service. Also, feel free to contact with any questions on the breed in general. We are all one big family. Steve Kazan info warthog.Champion bloodlines, IG CuzcoBusco. Michele Oneal May 24, Hi! I loved reading your article as I pick up my Puppy in 3 wks. His Dad competes and has won National Ribbons. My Breeder does DNA testing and has done this for 15 yrs. She does it for love, and will only sell to people that can stay home with her dogs. She is not interested in breeding for exotic colors but formation is key! I was Blessed to see one of her pups out with his owner at Lowes one day. It was by far the Best Frenchie I had seen! She truly is a lover and expert on them, which Is why I buying from her. We have a very beautiful Brindle male stud that is looking for a girlfriend. His name is Franc and he has the sweetest disposition! He loves to play with other dogs and children. He has a champion bloodline and we would love to have one of his babies! We live in Arkansas. If you are interested, please contact me ASAP at traci. God bless! Let us know if you have additional questions. Just like humans the body needs time to adjust and heal from a CS. We hope this helps. In the womb, French Bulldogs develop rapidly over a period of nine days although determining the exact length of gestation and how far your Frenchie is into her pregnancy can be challenging. According to the American Kennel Club , sperm can survive for days inside a female, and eggs can stay fertile for up to two days so the date of mating or artificial insemination can't be used accurately to measure gestation. Fortunately, a veterinarian can not only confirm your dog is pregnant but also narrow down the precise stage of pregnancy using ultrasounds, palpation, hormone tests, and x-rays. During pregnancy, your French Bulldog will go through three stages or trimesters of pregnancy just like a human, although these stages are only last about a month each. French Bulldogs are pregnant for about 8 to 9 weeks or 63 days with the most rapid fetal development occurring during the second month. Here's what you can expect throughout your Frenchie's pregnancy as well as the birth process. What Are the Stages of a Frenchie Pregnancy? Frenchie's pregnancy will only last about two to three months which means pups develop very rapidly. Here's a look at each stage, month by month. During your Frenchie's first month of pregnancy, the embryos will move to your dog's uterine horns or the area where the fallopian tubes and uterus meet. According to PetPlace , your dog's uterus is Y-shaped and the long arms of the Y — or the horns — are where the embryos will develop as they are arranged in a row. To confirm your Frenchie is actually pregnant and make sure you're accurately tracking gestation, it's a good idea to take her for a prenatal checkup at the vet around 2 to 3 weeks after artificial insemination or mating. By the 4th week or the end of the first trimester, your vet can confirm pregnancy with simple palpation, but this can only be done between the 28th and 35th days of the pregnancy. The embryos usually reach the uterine horns by day 7 and become embedded in the uterine lining around the 16th day. By day 22, the fetuses will start to have a recognizable shape. Your veterinarian can usually detect the heartbeats with an ultrasound between days 28 and .Your Frenchie probably won't have many if any symptoms during the first 3 weeks or so of the pregnancy. You may notice some symptoms during the first month such as: Morning sickness. This only affects some dogs and usually only for a few days around week 3 or 4, according to WebMD. Big changes happen during your Frenchie's second trimester. By day 32, the fetuses have eyelids and just three days later, toes. Between days 40 and 45, the pups will develop a coat, claws, and skeleton. Your veterinarian should be able to tell you how many puppies are in the liter by day 50 with an x-ray as the spines and skulls will be visible. Pregnancy symptoms should be obvious to spot by the second trimester and may include: Weight gain. Increased appetite which will likely drop off around day 45 A firm and enlarged abdomen around day 45 Behavioral changes including nesting behavior by day 58 Increased urination Visible movement of puppies by day 50 What Should I Expect During Month 3? By the beginning of month three, your Frenchie will be ready to whelp her puppies. By day 58, development is almost complete. The puppies will slowly move into the right position in the birth canal during the last few days of pregnancy. Symptoms to watch for include: A suddenly trim waist when the puppies move into the whelping position Restless behavior that may come with panting, pacing, or shivering Loss of appetite around day 61 Body temperature drops between 12 and 24 hours before labor begins The Week-by-Week Timeline of French Bulldog Pregnancy Here's a more in-depth look at the changes your Frenchie and her puppies will go through each week of the pregnancy. You can also watch this video to see what you can expect and what canine fetal development looks like. What Happens During Week One? During the first week, ovulation, mating, and fertilization occur. The 9-week pregnancy officially starts with ovulation, just as with a human pregnancy, even though it can be hard to independently monitor your Frenchie's ovulation. During the first week, your Frenchie may have morning sickness and changes in her eating. You may also notice some pinkish discharge which is normal. What Happens During Week Two? Week 2 marks the actual beginning of embryonic development when cells begin to grow and embryos have moved into the uterus. Your Frenchie probably won't have any pregnancy symptoms yet and can continue to exercise and eat as normal. What Happens During Week Three? By the 3rd week of your Frenchie's pregnancy, the embryos will be just 1 centimeter long. Around this time, the embryos will implant in the uterine lining and begin to receive nutrients from the mother. At this point, your French Bulldog may or may not have symptoms. When dogs do get morning sickness, it tends to happen during the third or fourth week due to rising hormone levels. Your Frenchie may also have an increased appetite. What Happens During Week Four? By the end of week 4, your veterinarian will be able to confirm pregnancy by palpation of the Frenchie's abdomen. The faces of the fetuses will start to form along with the eyes and spines. This is the most formative stage of your French Bulldog's pregnancy. The fetuses are also at their most vulnerable. It's important to limit any strenuous activity or rough play with your Frenchie. She will also have to change nutritional needs. What Happens During Week Five? By the 5th week, the fetuses are a bit more protected and less susceptible to developmental problems. Around day 32, the amount of amniotic fluid increases the protect the growing pups. Pregnancy can no longer be confirmed by palpation. Week 5 marks the development of whiskers, toes, and claws. The fetuses also develop male or female sex organs. Your Frenchie will noticeably begin to put on a lot of weight around week five. This is definitely the time to make sure she's getting enough nutrients and food. Begin feeding her more often with small meals. During this week of pregnancy, you can choose to have your vet perform an ultrasound to confirm the number of puppies and check for potential developmental problems. What Happens During Week Six? By the 6th week, your Frenchie will be obviously pregnant and her abdomen will grow steadily every day. Her nipples will be darker and she will want to eat even more. Make sure to mix in some puppy food with her regular kibble and consider a nutritional supplement. This is a good time to get a whelping box ready for your Frenchie. The box or bed should be somewhere your Frenchie can sleep and care for the puppies for several weeks. Between days 35 and 42, the puppies will develop skin pigmentation and markings. What Happens During Week Seven? During the seventh week of pregnancy, the developing puppies are almost fully formed although they will continue to grow. Your Frenchie will start to shed the hair on her stomach to get ready for whelping. If you introduced puppy food to her diet over the previous weeks, you can discontinue now to prompt her body to store the extra calcium which is important at the end of pregnancy. What Happens During Week Eight? It's hard to say when your Frenchie will start to whelp her puppies, but it can definitely happen any time starting at the 8th week. Make sure you avoid any stimulation or play that may trigger labor. You'll notice your Frenchie start to nest and you'll be able to see puppies moving when she's lying on her side. And the end of the week, your Frenchie will start to produce colostrum that will nourish the puppies before her milk comes in. What Happens During Week Nine? During the 9th week, your Frenchie will likely become withdrawn as she prepares for whelping. Her appetite will probably decline as she gets ready to birth her puppies. To help determine when she will go into labor, take her temperature a few times a day. Her temperature will drop before labor. To support the rapidly growing liter of puppies, your Frenchie's appetite and nutritional needs will change several times during pregnancy. Providing your Frenchie with the right nutritional care is one of the most important things you can do to protect her health and support healthy fetal development. Just as with humans, prenatal supplements are crucial to avoid potential developmental problems. For example, a study published in the Polish Journal of Veterinary Sciences found that folic acid supplements when your Frenchie is in heat and at the start of gestation reduce the incidences of cleft palate and cleft lip by almost half. You'll need to take care to avoid overfeeding which can prolong labor as well as underfeeding which can cause embryo loss, miscarriage, abnormal development, and small litter size, according to Dr. Robin Downing. To help your Frenchie maintain a healthy weight, check her weight each week and make adjustments to her diet as needed. During the first few weeks of your Frenchie's pregnancy, she will probably lose her appetite for a bit. As the embryos implant and begin to grow, her appetite will return. The best thing to do is to maintain a regular feeding schedule and make changes to support her pregnancy. Your Frenchie should be getting prenatal supplements during this time, especially folic acid. During this time, it's important that your Frenchie does not actually lose weight but you shouldn't be worried if she doesn't seem to gain much. Hormonal and physical changes can make it harder for her to eat and properly digest nutrients, however. To support healthy fetal development, it's important to switch to calorie-dense food during the second trimester, according to Royal Canin. This is a good time to mix in puppy food with her regular kibble and continue with multivitamin supplements. Once your Frenchie reaches the third trimester, or around 42 days into gestation, you can switch fully to a high-energy food. Because her abdomen is so full with very little room for food, choose a high-quality growth or puppy formula that's easy to digest. Focus on many small meals rather than just one or two large meals to help her maintain her energy levels and nutrient intake. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. Pregnancy in French Bulldogs is often complicated. Read on to arm yourself with proper knowledge about French Bulldog pregnancy. Artificial insemination is better for French Bulldogs than natural mating. The anatomy of French Bulldogs makes natural breeding difficult to carry out. Males will have a hard time mounting females due to their compact bodies and short legs. The strain of attempting to mate may make them exhausted and overheated. In some cases, some French Bulldogs end up vomiting due to excessive exertion. Hence, many French Bulldog owners turn to artificial insemination for less stress and better chances of successful breeding. The success rate of artificial insemination in the breed may vary. The cost of artificial insemination in French Bulldogs depends on the vet clinic. Age is crucial for a safe French Bulldog pregnancy. Female French Bulldogs begin their oestrus cycle at around 5 months old. This means they are in heat and can conceive puppies. However, it is not recommended for French Bulldog pregnancy to occur around this age. Frenchies have not reached full maturity yet, which can cause difficulties when giving birth. Thus, it is necessary to wait until they are full-grown. Ideally, female French Bulldogs should at least be around 2 years old for breeding. French Bulldog pregnancy lasts the same as all dog breeds. It is an indicator that she will begin attracting male dogs. This may last around 9 days. Oestrus Also known as the mating stage, females are now fertile and receptive to male dogs. It typically lasts for about 9 days. Around this stage, artificial insemination can be carried out. It would be best to let the vet take blood tests and vaginal smears during the proestrus and oestrus stages. They will help pinpoint when is the best time to breed French Bulldogs. Dioestrus Pregnancy occurs around this stage. As mentioned earlier, the French Bulldog pregnancy duration lasts for about 58—68 days 8—9 weeks. Anoestrus It is also called the resting stage. After the French Bulldog pregnancy, recovery begins. Thus, females will have sexual dormancy around this time. Fewer puppies mean safer pregnancy in French Bulldogs. How many puppies do French Bulldogs have? French Bulldogs have compact bodies that restrict them from conceiving large litter. On average, they can have around 3 puppies each litter. Litter sizes often range around 2—4 puppies. Having around 5—7 puppies is rare in French Bulldogs. If this does happen, there will be fewer chances of all puppies surviving during or after birth. Signs of pregnancy in French Bulldogs begin to appear during the 1st trimester. When do French Bulldogs start showing pregnancy? French Bulldog pregnancy signs appear as early as the 1st or 2nd week of conception. Morning sickness, weight gain, lack of appetite , lethargy, and increased sleeping time are some of the early signs of pregnancy in French Bulldogs. Around the 2nd trimester, pregnant French Bulldogs will noticeably have darker and bigger nipples. When the 3rd trimester rolls around, their belly will become larger. It is also common for this area of their body to experience hair loss. There are many ways to confirm if your French Bulldog is pregnant. Beware that in some cases, French Bulldog phantom pregnancy may occur. This condition is also known as false pregnancy or pseudopregnancy. It is characterised by the manifestation of pregnancy symptoms despite the dogs not being pregnant. To check if your French Bulldog is indeed pregnant, there are several tests in vet clinics that you can let her take, such as: Palpation This French Bulldog pregnancy test involves feeling the fluid-filled sacs covering the foetuses. This method should be carried out between days 21 and 35 3—5 weeks of gestation. Anything later than that will make it impossible to feel the sacs. They would lose their shape and turn soft, making them seem like fats. If your dog is pregnant, you will feel enlarged uterine horns and foetal heartbeat during palpation. This hormone is released from the placental tissue only during pregnancy. If it is carried out too early, false-negative results are very likely to happen. Your pooch can take this once she is 45 days into her gestation. An X-ray will show the number of puppies in her womb. Moreover, it also determines how big their skulls are. This will help you decide whether or not natural birth is feasible. Ultrasound This type of French Bulldog pregnancy examination is the quickest way to find out if your dog has a successful conception. It is recommended to take an ultrasound between days 25 and 35 of gestation. There are many benefits to getting an ultrasound. It helps distinguish the gestational age of the foetus. It also checks if all foetus is alive by detecting their heartbeats. The ultrasound is handy in determining the number of puppies to expect too. However, it produces more accurate results on small litters than the large ones. Thus, slight adjustments should be made to keep her comfortable, happy, and healthy. Here is a short French Bulldog pregnancy guide on how to care for your expecting Frenchie: Consider switching to puppy food. Many breeders recommend feeding high-quality puppy food to pregnant small-breed dogs. It contains more proteins, vitamins, and minerals compared to regular dog food. Thus, your pregnant French Bulldog will acquire better nutrition and more energy from it. When looking for puppy food, check the ingredients list. Make sure that the first ingredient is high-quality meat that you know. Do not go for puppy food predominantly made up of by-products as they offer fewer nutrients to your pregnant French Bulldog. Split her meals into small portions. Thus, pet owners should avoid overfeeding as gaining unhealthy weight can contribute to birthing complications. Avoid feeding your pregnant French Bulldog 2 large portions of food a day to prevent these dangers. Divide them into small meals, so she does not gorge on them. This will allow more space for her puppies to grow and prevent gas from accumulating in her stomach. Supervise her interactions with people. It is common for pregnant French Bulldogs to have mood swings. They may become irritable and aggressive even to their human companions. Keep a close eye on your dog when she spends time with people, especially children. Make sure they do not rub her belly, which she might become protective of. This way they will know not to overdo their interactions with her. Limit changes in her environment. Maintaining a stable routine and familiar environment will keep your pregnant French Bulldog from getting stressed. Place her whelping box in a quiet area where there is less foot traffic. As much as possible, also avoid introducing new pets as she might become aggressive toward them. Ensure that the temperature in your home is not excessively cold or warm to avoid the risk of hyperthermia and hypothermia. Look out for signs of labour in pregnant French Bulldogs. Your French Bulldog may start to show signs of labour around week 8 or 9 of her pregnancy. Here are some changes in her behaviour that hints she is about to give birth: Nesting. Pin9 11 Shares French bulldogs have been selectively bred by humans to the point where they are in the majority of cases no longer able to breed naturally. Getting a French bulldog pregnant will mostly happen via artificial insemination. Once successful, how long will they be pregnant for? French bulldogs are like any other dog breed when it comes to gestation length. You can expect a Frenchie pregnancy to last between 58 and 68 days, with the average pregnancy length typically being 63 days from conception to birth. French Bulldog Pregnancy Calendar: In addition to this advice, below you can see an easy to reference French Bulldog pregnancy calendar I have put together for reference purposes. French Bulldog pregnancy calendar Week 1 days 0 to 7 The Frenchie female has been fertilized successfully, and you should continue on with her usual exercise and food, with no changes to activity or diet. Your Frenchie might experience some form of morning sickness, and you might see a small pink discharge coming out. Week 2 days 7 to 14 This is the time during the French Bulldog pregnancy calendar when the cells will start to grow, and the embryos move into the uterus area. Week 3 days 14 to 21 The small Frenchie puppy foetuses are now starting to develop properly, being extremely small at around 1 cm in length. Just like in weeks 1 and 2 of the pregnancy calendar, there is still no need to make any changes to her diet and exercise. However, you should keep an eye on her, as some dogs will want to eat more. This is one of the most important weeks in the French Bulldog pregnancy calendar and is the point of highest risk to the developing puppies. Be careful with her, and start to limit any over-exertion and rough activity. The foetuses are now starting to resemble a dog, with spinal and facial areas growing, but the puppy foetus is still only 1. Your female Frenchie may start to get swollen nipples and a clear discharge from her vagina. Again, this is perfectly normal and nothing to panic about. Your vet will need to advise on whether or not you need to change her diet, or supplement her food with any more nutritional additions. Week 5 days 28 to 35 At this point, the foetuses are more robust with feet, claws, and whiskers starting to appear. This is also the point whereby the sex of the puppy will develop, with genital areas developing. Vets can perform a scan during this period so you can find out how many puppies you can expect in the litter. Week 6 days 35 to 42 You will now definitely notice a difference in your female in terms of how large and pregnant she looks. Her nipples will also become darker, and there will also be color changes to the growing puppies too as they start to develop their unique markings. The mother will demand more food, so keep feeding her as much as she has the appetite to take. You will also be supplementing her own food with puppy food too and can also consider supplements into the diet. Week 6 in the calendar is also a good time to prepare her area for giving birth. She will want to start the nesting process so find somewhere quiet and secure that she can feel relaxed in. The puppies are now almost completely formed into their adorable French Bulldog shape. From a dietary perspective you can now stop the puppy food ratio and get the mother back onto her regular diet… but with more volume. By doing so you can let the mother store valuable calcium deposits in her system. The calcium will help the puppies develop further and stronger. Just let her be relaxed and avoid any form of over activity as this could lead to her body trying to deliver the litter early. You will see the mother start to nest properly now, and you might even be lucky enough to see some movement in her belly as the puppies move around. Week 9 days 57 to 65 The Frenchie puppies are coming! The mother will be very quiet and could even start eating less as she prepares herself for the birth this week. Handy Hint: If your Frenchie is pregnant and you want to estimate when the puppies will be due, use this pregnancy calculator. I am not a breeder, I am simply a lover of Frenchies, and own one — his name is Claude and you will see photos and videos of him elsewhere on the website. Breeders will artificially inseminate the female dam , even if the male is in the same room. In the future I will look to interview a breeder so I can publish more expert insight. How many months is the pregnancy of a dog on average? The gestation and pregnancy time period for almost any breed of dog is between 58 and 58 days, meaning 63 days is the average. How many puppies do French bulldogs usually have? Frenchies are a brachycephalic short skull breed of dog. These breeds rarely give birth to large litters, and Frenchies are just the same. French bulldogs tend to have on average around 3 puppies with each litter. Typically, the litter sizes will range between 2 and 4 puppies, with litters over 5 puppies being unusual. Occasionally you might hear of 7 or more puppies being born, but this is very, very rare. Compare that to other dog breeds such as a Golden Retriever, whose average litter size of puppies is 8, or Beagles who average 6 puppies, you can see why Frenchies are so expensive. Four Frenchie puppies in a row — not an unusual litter size in this breed. You can see some research I put together below on the most popular worldwide dog breeds and how many puppies they have on average. Dog breed type. Frequently Asked Questions French Bulldog Pregnancy Stages Week by Week: An Overview Understanding french bulldog pregnancy stages week by week starts with recognizing early signs and knowing when to seek professional veterinary care. The following sections will delve into these aspects. French bulldog pregnancy and canine pregnancy is 63 days from ovulation give or take days Signs of French Bulldog Pregnancy In the early stages of french bulldog pregnancy , some signs are subtle but can still be detectable by observant pet owners: Behavioral Changes: The dog may become more affectionate or, conversely, more withdrawn. Appetite Changes: Either an increase or decrease in appetite is common. Physical Changes: Slight weight gain or swelling of the nipples may occur. These signs can be further confirmed by a veterinarian through various tests. French Bulldog Pregnancy Tests A vet can perform several tests to confirm pregnancy: Blood Tests: Checking for specific hormone levels. Ultrasound: Visual confirmation of embryos around 3 to 4 weeks into the pregnancy. French Bulldog Pregnancy Stages Week 1: Ovulation — 7 days Fertilization The beginning of the miraculous journey of dog pregnancy starts with fertilization. Breeding Process Breeding in french bulldogs is a complex process. Progesterone testing is an important part of the breeding process. Progesterone is measured every days starting at day 7 of bleeding. Once her levels start to rise tests will become more frequent, every 2 days until ovulation occurs. Once ovulation has occurred, eggs need 2 days to mature and the breeding process can begin! Females will usually allow the males to mount once the eggs have ripened. If you choose to try to allow your french bulldogs to breed naturally , progesterone testing is still a great idea. This will help you to make sure the male has proper timing and allows you to plan for all the necessary events such as ultrasound, x ray, and c section. With progesterone testing, your vet will be in the know throughout the entire process. So if you plan on whelping naturally vs c section, your vet will need to be able to be reached in case of emergency. Breed once every 36 hours for a total of breedings. Fertilization occurs, and the journey of life begins. Considerations like a proper diet can make a real difference during this stage. Implantation During this week, the fertilized eggs travel to the uterus and begin to implant themselves into the uterine lining. This process lays the foundation for the growing embryos. Early Nutritional Needs A nutritious diet is essential during this stage. Quality commercial dog food or a vet-approved homemade diet can provide the necessary nutrients. Check out this awsome video by Purina! Week 3: Recognizing Early Signs days Notice Darkening of nipples The third week marks the beginning of visible changes in the pregnant dog. These behavioral changes can be clues to pregnancy. Week 4: The Formative Stage days Veterinary Visits Around this time, a veterinarian may be able to confirm pregnancy through palpation or ultrasound. Regular check-ups ensure both the mother and her developing puppies are healthy. The fourth week is a formative period where organ development occurs. Day 24 of Pregnancy Portia Day 27 Organ Development The embryos begin to form organs and even take on a recognizable shape. They are very delicate at this stage, and proper care and nutrition are crucial. Dietary Changes A gradual shift towards a diet with higher protein and fat content may be necessary. Spinal cords are developing and theyre beginning to grow facial features Week 5: Mid-Gestation days The halfway point of pregnancy is marked by substantial growth and the ability to see the puppies through ultrasound. Mood and Appetite Behavior and appetite starts to change and fluctuate. This subsides in a week or so. Fetuses develop their sex organs and begin to look like actual puppies. Ultrasound Examination Around this time, an ultrasound can provide a clear picture of the puppies, their number, and development. Weight Gain Expect to see more substantial weight gain during this week. It should be warm, quiet, and easily accessible. Pups are now starting to develop pigmentation and have eyelids Week 7: Pups on the Way days Week seven brings undeniable evidence of the impending arrival of the puppies. Development of Puppies The puppies continue to grow, and their fur starts to develop. Their skeleton hardens, and they become more defined. Veterinary Check-ups Regular veterinary check-ups are vital at this stage to monitor the health of both the mother and the pups Portia update: Ears are very itchy. We are using natural lavender wipes to help to soothe the itch. You will start to feel and see the puppies moving inside. Nesting Behavior Many pregnant dogs exhibit nesting behavior, where they prepare a spot for the impending birth. You may notice her arranging blankets or other soft materials in a secluded spot. You may start to notice vomiting as space becomes limited. Frequent smaller meals may be beneficial. Week 9: Birth and Care of Newborn Puppies days This is the week most dog owners have been eagerly anticipating. The color can range from pale yellow and almost clear to a golden caramel. Colostrum is rich in nutrients and antibodies that sets your pups up for a great immune system. Always keep some on hand just in case! Colostrum in nursing bitch Great postnatal by Breeders Edge Oxy Momma Meat Treats Fenugreek Capsules , feed pills 3x daily until breath smells like maple syrup Domperidone, a prescription from your vet. Labor and Birth Labor can last anywhere from a few hours to a day. The signs include restlessness, panting, and nesting behavior, with vomiting and diarrhea. This is because they have small hips and puppies have large heads. More often than not puppies can get stuck, causing death of the litter and possibly even mom. At this past C-Section with Portia, our Doctor also did an ultrasound scan to check for puppy gut mobility intestines are moving to make sure it was safe to welcome them to the world. I did ask to see the absorption, as discussed in the video above. However, when they absorb that early, more often than not the body completely absorbs it and it no longer exists. This is exactly what happened with the one absorption we saw at her ultrasound. An incubator may be a great tool for you! Puppy incubators keeps pups in a controlled environment away from pathogens, maintaining proper temperature and humidity. Puppy Incubator — The lamp was purposely left out at the time was hoping the big lamp would be sufficient and then reinserted. Caring for a Pregnant Dog The wellbeing of the mother is paramount throughout the entire process. Nutrition Proper Diet: Feed a well-balanced and nutritious diet as recommended by your vet. Supplementation: Sometimes, specific vitamins or supplements might be prescribed. Always follow veterinary guidance. Exercise Regular, Gentle Exercise: Light exercise helps keep the mother healthy without putting undue strain on her. Avoid Strenuous Activities: Overly vigorous activities should be avoided, particularly in the later stages. Emergency Contacts: Keep emergency numbers at hand, just in case. Post-Pregnancy: Recovery and Nursing The period after birth is equally vital for the mother and her new puppies. Nursing Puppies Monitoring: Regularly check that the puppies are nursing well and gaining weight. Supplementary Feeding: If needed, consult your vet about supplementary feeding. Rest: Ensure the mother has a quiet place to rest and recover. C Section Care— crate rest for 2 weeks and calm leashed potty time. Carry up and down stairs supporting the incision. Follow instructions from your vet regarding proper pain management and antibiotics. Dealing with Complications Monitoring for Signs: Be vigilant for any signs of distress or complications and seek veterinary assistance if needed. Breed-Specific Pregnancy Different breeds might have unique needs and challenges. Differences Among Breeds Size Matters: Smaller breeds may have different nutritional and care needs compared to larger ones. Tailored Care Plans Specific Guidance: Seek breed-specific advice from your vet or breed clubs for the best care plan. Genetic Screening Screening for Disorders: Ensuring that parent dogs are screened for hereditary conditions helps in producing healthy puppies. Ensuring Healthy Puppies Consider Breeding Standards: Adhering to established breeding standards ensures that puppies are healthy and true to the breed. Conclusion Understanding the french bulldog pregnancy stages week by week is a rewarding experience, enabling dog owners to be involved and proactive in every step of this beautiful journey. From the moment of conception to the joyous arrival of the puppies, this guide provides the insights and expertise you need to support the mother and her newborns. Frequently Asked Questions What is the duration of a french bulldog pregnancy? The average gestation period for dogs is about 63 days, although this can vary by a few days depending on the breed and individual dog. How can I tell if my french bulldog is pregnant? Early signs may include changes in behavior, appetite, and slight weight gain. Veterinary confirmation through blood tests or ultrasound is the surest method. When should I take my pregnant french bulldog to the vet? What should I feed my pregnant french bulldog? A well-balanced diet that meets her increased nutritional needs is crucial. Your veterinarian can recommend the best diet for your specific dog. Preparing a warm, quiet whelping box, understanding the signs of labor, and knowing when and how to assist are key to a successful birthing process. What should I do if complications arise during birth? If you suspect any complications during birth, contact your vet immediately. Prompt professional assistance can be lifesaving. Learn more » Having a French Bulldog in your home can be a true pleasure. These little dogs are cute, feisty, and fun to have around. Often, French Bulldog owners become curious about allowing their female Frenchie to have puppies. Like any caring pet parent, certain questions pop up. This is especially true when it comes to French Bulldogs. You may wonder, is it safe for my dog to get pregnant? How long is a French Bulldog pregnant? How many puppies are typically in a litter? All these questions are completely natural and expected by pet owners who are new to the world of puppies or breeding. They are a crossbreed of an English Bulldog and the smaller terrier breeds. The years of breeding Frenchies have gone through make it difficult for a female to become pregnant on her own. Instead, if you want your female Frenchie to become a mom, artificial insemination is often the best way. This can happen anywhere between 6 months to a year of age. In hopes of healthy pregnancies, it is best to let your French Bulldog go through 2 heat cycles before you allow them to breed. This will ensure their organs and body are developed enough to support the puppies. Understanding these stages will make things easier for you if you plan on breeding your pup. Proestrus Proestrus is the first stage of the reproductive cycle. This is when you may notice your Frenchie having bloody vaginal discharge. During this time, male dogs may try to make advances. Depending on your pup, she may avoid those advances or accept them. She may become a bit emotional and want lots of your attention. Then again, she could be grumpy and prefer that you steer clear and give her some space. This stage lasts for roughly 9 days. Estrus In this 2nd phase, things change a bit. This stage can last anywhere from 3 to 21 days. Diestrus On day 14, the 3rd stage, Diestrus typically occurs. Here you will find that your female Frenchie is not receptive to males, her discharge reddens, then ultimately goes away, and her vulva returns to normal. When all the signs are gone, the dog is no longer in heat. Anestrus Anestrus is sexually dormancy. In the first couple of weeks as changes take place inside her body, you may not notice anything. Other than a little morning sickness, you may be oblivious to what she is going through. At as early as three weeks post insemination, your vet may be able to detect embryos ultrasonographically to confirm pregnancy. Make sure she is well cared for and avoids strenuous activity. Her nipples will darken and her appetite will increase. She will begin nesting and preparing herself for birth. In her tummy, the puppies are getting their whiskers and claws. All these amazing changes happen up until week 8, which is when your Frenchie could possibly give birth. To avoid early birth, as the pet parent, you should help her prepare and keep her comfortable so she can reach her full gestation of 9 weeks or 63 days. It should also be noted that the vast majority of Frenchies do not go through natural labor and require C-sections due to their anatomy and increased risk for dystocia. Not only do they face difficulties with insemination, but they also have a long road ahead of them to give birth to a healthy litter. They can help you decide whether your pup is ready, healthy, and prepared to be a mother. Featured Image Credit: Firn, Shutterstock Written by Melissa Gunter Author Melissa was born and raised in the mountains of East Tennessee where she spent her time writing in an old notebook and playing outside with her pets. As an avid animal lover, she has brought many into her home over the years. Currently, she is the mom of 5 fur babies. Her 2 cats, Princess and Pepper are total opposites who demand attention. Her dogs Jazzy, Whitey, and Demon are full of spunk and keep the entire family on their toes. Beyond life as an animal mom, Melissa is a dedicated wife and mother to 2 children. Writing in her old notebook led her down the path of becoming not only a freelance writer but a published Indie author under the pen name, Rena Marin.Read more Advertisement. How Long are French Bulldogs Pregnant? Under normal circumstances, a female French bulldog matures at five months of age. In six months, the heat cycle begins. The female dog is ready for mating, and conception can occur during what is also known as the oestrus cycle. But you will rarely find French Bulldogs mating naturally. Their anatomy makes it unlikely that a male will successfully mount the female. So how long are Frenchies pregnant? After fertilization, the gestation period for this breed of dogs takes about 63 days. Conception mostly happens when the female dog is in heat, which is when she is sexually receptive. There are at least five Frenchie pregnancy signs you should be looking out for when assessing if your Frenchie is getting ready to pop out some French bulldog babies! A visit to the vet is imperative. Enlarge Nipples Some of the physical signs of a pregnant Frenchie include enlarged nipples and increased sensitivity in the abdomen. If you think your dog might be pregnant, you should consult with your vet. The discharge usually happens in the second or third week. A Big Appetite Another tell-tale sign of a pregnant dog is a significant change in appetite. A pregnant Frenchie will eat double or triple the amount of food she usually does, ensuring that her body has enough energy to maintain itself and carry the puppies to full term. Vomiting or Morning Sickness Like humans, French bulldogs get morning sickness when pregnant! Three weeks after conception, she will start to throw up or be nauseous. That usually only lasts for a few days. When breeding a dog, monitoring the progress after insemination is vital. Close monitoring is especially critical during the pregnancy and ensures proper mother care during this delicate time. Ultrasound The vet uses a machine that detects heartbeats, which informs the number of pups the mother is likely to have. Relaxin is the hormone that helps relax and enlarge the cervix during pregnancy. X-Ray Scan X-rays, specifically abdominal x-rays, can be used to help vets determine whether a dog is pregnant or not. The radiography approach is considered the best way to determine if a dog is pregnant as it will provide a simple and accurate result even down to the number of pups your pet is carrying. These days are the 28th and 30th. If your dog is pregnant, you will feel enlarged uterine horns and a fetal heartbeat. Did she turn out pregnant? Welcome aboard! When talking of the French bulldog gestation period , we have to note that a few extra weeks of preparation and commitment can make the difference between a healthy and happy mother and a sickly and uncomfortable dog. The vet will tell you what to do for her and how to take care of her. In the 1st trimester, we are still in the early stages of development. The Frenchie is not eating much because her body is changing. She is not losing weight, though. Best Prenatal Supplement Oxy Mate by Revival Animal Health provides your pup with iron, folic acid, zinc, and other micronutrients that are essential for your dog's health and the development of strong healthy newborns. You can give the Frenchie folic acid supplements to help her body grow the baby. I gave my Frenchie lots of calcium and magnesium, and phosphorus supplements. Give her small, frequent meals instead of large ones to avoid adding to her discomfort. Take her on regular walks. It will help exercise her body, but they should not strain her. She needs all the energy and strength here to carry her puppies to full term. When you find out your dog is pregnant, you will want to know how long it will be until your dog has her puppies. It is essential to know because you will want to be there when she has them. Typically, the due date French bulldog falls anywhere between 58 and 63 days after conception. Weeks The first trimester is weeks one, two, and three. At week one, the sperm meets the egg, forming the embryo. At week two, the embryo attaches to the uterus. I would recommend taking many French bulldog pregnancy week by week pictures from the first week. The wait is much more fun this way. The fetus takes on visual qualities for the first time during this period; facial structures become defined, and muscular movement is observed. The spinal cord is almost fully formed at this stage, a significant milestone for any pregnancy.

Cancer Progressive Retinal Atrophy The primary recommendations we make when someone is shopping for Miniature Goldendoodles are fairly standard. Getting your dog the right amount of exercise and keeping them at a healthy weight can prevent many chronic problems and make them overall happier. In addition, taking your dog in for regular checkups, and to stay current on all shots and vaccinations, encourages health as well. One other reason that puppy parents trust Keystone Puppies when looking for Mini Goldendoodles for sale is that we make dog health our top priority! Not only do we only work with responsible breeders that prioritize healthy practices, but we also offer a no-hassle puppy health guarantee. Because they are bred to have the coat qualities of a Poodle, these pups are a popular option for owners looking to adopt a hypoallergenic dog. Their curly coat should be soft to the touch. The signature coat of pretty curls is one of the places where the Poodle ancestry truly shines through. To keep the coat looking its most beautiful, make sure to brush it two to four times per week. Not only is brushing a nice bonding experience for the pup and their person, but it also prevents tangling and matting. Owners can maintain a healthy Goldendoodle coat by bathing them every other month. Meet Mini Goldendoodles for Sale. Reviews 0 Cheap mini goldendoodle puppies for sale At Cheappuppiesforsale , we take pride in working with only the best mini goldendoodle breeders in USA. History of Mini Goldendoodle Puppies: The Mini Goldendoodle breed originated in the United States in the s, as a result of a desire to create a hypoallergenic guide dog. Over the years, the Goldendoodle has become increasingly popular as a family pet, thanks to its friendly nature, trainability, and low-shedding coat. Temperament of Goldendoodles: Goldendoodle puppies are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them an ideal choice for families with children. Because Goldendoodles are a crossbreed, their temperament can vary depending on the characteristics they inherit from their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents. However, in general, Goldendoodles are friendly, outgoing, and love to be around people. This playful Golden Doodle Puppy will fit in nicely with any family. He is a precious puppy is raised with children that play with him regularly. This baby is vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. He promises if you take him home he will brighten your days and will always love you unconditionally. He is excited to meet you and become your new best friend!

Thankfully, it is very preventable with proper vaccination. This virus was discovered in the s and rapidly became a serious threat to canine health. This is primarily because the virus is hard to kill, can live for a long time in the environment, is shed in large quantities by infected dogs, is highly contagious, and is often fatal without appropriate treatment. This is why the parvo vaccine is considered a core vaccine for puppies and dogs. While the highly effective parvovirus vaccine has decreased the risk to properly vaccinated dogs, this disease is still widely prevalent, especially in puppies and poorly-vaccinated adolescent dogs. Parvo is an infectious DNA virus that commonly causes severe illness in young and unvaccinated dogs. Heart muscle cells of very young puppies can also be damaged by parvovirus. Although parvovirus is most common in puppies and adolescent dogs, it can also affect adult or senior dogs, especially if they are unvaccinated. Symptoms of Parvo in Dogs A dog infected with canine parvovirus will usually start to show parvo symptoms within days of infection. An infected puppy will often show lethargy as the first sign, and they may not want to eat. They will also often have a fever. As the virus progresses, your dog will begin to suffer from abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may be severe. Very sick puppies may collapse and have a high heart rate , difficulty breathing, and hypothermia due to the degree of dehydration and infection. Causes of Parvo in Dogs Parvovirus is an incredibly contagious disease that spreads quickly and efficiently. While canine parvovirus is not airborne, it can be found on many surfaces. However, it is susceptible to diluted bleach and some specialized cleaners commonly used in veterinary hospitals. Can Humans Get Parvo? Parvovirus is species-specific, so humans have their own version of the virus. This means that humans cannot get parvovirus from dogs, and dogs cannot get parvovirus from people. Cats also have a type of parvovirus that causes severe disease, known as feline panleukopenia. While dogs cannot get feline parvovirus from cats, cats can become infected with canine parvovirus. They most often have much more mild clinical signs than dogs do, but there is a strain of canine parvovirus that can cause severe illness in cats. The feline parvovirus vaccine, which is part of the core FVRCP vaccine , may offer some cross-protection against canine parvovirus. How Is Parvovirus Diagnosed in Dogs? Are There Parvo Tests? Fecal ELISA tests enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay are the most common way of diagnosing a dog with parvovirus in a clinical setting. The test requires a fecal swab and takes about 10 minutes. While this test is accurate, a negative result does not necessarily rule out parvovirus in a symptomatic dog, as they may not be shedding the viral antigen at the time of testing. Further testing may be needed in these cases. Stages of Parvo The stages of canine parvovirus are the same as most viral infections. Infection The puppy or adult dog is exposed to parvo via fecal material from an infected dog. Incubation There is an incubation period usually days in which the dog is infected with parvovirus but not yet showing symptoms. During this period, the virus specifically seeks out the most rapidly dividing cells in the body—typically, it starts attacking the tonsils or lymph nodes in the throat. Once it has multiplied and entered the bloodstream, the virus will seek out other sources of rapidly diving cells. The most hard-hit areas are: Bone marrow Cells that line the walls of the small intestines In very young puppies, parvovirus can also infect the heart, which causes inflammation of the heart muscle, poor heart function, and arrhythmias. Illness When the virus infects the bone marrow, it attacks the young immune cells, which leads a drop in protective white blood cells. This is where the worst damage happens. While most dog owners carefully vaccinate and protect their dogs, it seems parvovirus is on the rise and that all too often, we hear of another beloved dog becoming ill or even dying of the disease. How Do Dogs Get Parvo? Dogs catch parvo by coming in contact with an infected dog, infected feces or infected surfaces, and parvo can live in the environment for months. Highly resistant, the virus can live in the environment for months, and may survive on inanimate objects such as food bowls, shoes, clothes, carpet and floors. It is common for an unvaccinated dog to contract parvo-virus from the streets, especially in urban areas where there are many dogs. Areas that dogs typically catch parvovirus include veterinary clinics, groomers, training classes, parks, schools, shopping malls, residential neighborhoods, humane societies, rescues and dog shows. But parvo can live on any surface, nearly anywhere. Parvo Symptoms Parvovirus is known for its ability to cause bloody, foul smelling diarrhea, lethargy, severe vomiting, loss of appetite, which can lead to life-threatening dehydration, and can cause lifelong heart damage. Which Dogs Are At Risk? Puppies are most susceptible to contracting parvo, but dogs of any age can catch it. Unvaccinated dogs are more prone to contracting parvo. The breeds with the highest risk are German shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman pinchers, Labrador retrievers, and American Staffordshire terriers. Wolves, coyotes and foxes are also susceptible. Prevention The best way to protect your dog is through vaccinations. Puppies should be vaccinated at 6 — 8 weeks, receive boosters at four-week intervals until the puppy is weeks of age, and then again at 1 year. The puppy series is not complete before 4 months. A titer test to determine immunity can be performed by a vet. The best way to protect puppies from contracting parvo is to avoid areas that may be contaminated until full immunity. Treatment Dogs infected with parvovirus need immediate medical care. According to stats from The Merck Veterinary Manual, 8th ed. How to Kill Parvo If you suspect your environment has been infected with the parvovirus, you will need to disinfect all areas with a solution of 1-part bleach to 30 parts water. Let the solution sit on surfaces for 10 minutes. You may use on any non-material surface, including the soles of your shoes, dog dishes, toys, etc. Areas that are harder to clean, such as grass, wood, carpet, etc. Potassium peroxide brand names Trifectant or Virkon also kill parvovirus. Never use these disinfectants on your dog. Parvo gets a lot of talk around it and while you may have heard of it, you might be wondering what are the symptoms of parvo in dogs and how you can treat it. Canine parvovirus, often referred to as parvo, is a highly contagious virus that commonly affects puppies. However, the disease can pose a risk to unvaccinated adult dogs as well. While parvo can be a life-threatening disease, knowing the prevention strategies, signs, and symptoms are key to making sure your pup remains healthy and safe. Common symptoms and signs that your dog may be suffering from parvovirus can include diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, fever, vomiting, depression, dehydration, and if left untreated, can result in septic shock and death. What Is Parvovirus? Canine parvovirus is highly contagious and most commonly affects young pups under four months of age and unvaccinated dogs. Canine parvovirus is a relatively new virus in dogs, with some of the first cases and discussions about the disease dating back to the s. When a dog contracts parvovirus, they can be contagious within days of the virus entering their system, often before the incubation period has been completed and your dog begins to show signs and symptoms. Dogs can contract the virus by coming into oral or nasal contact with infected feces or by coming into contact with objects or an environment that has been contaminated with parvo. The virus can remain viable in a contaminated environment for over 6 months and be transmitted to many animals. Parvo can also begin to show within a broader range of days. Diarrhea One of the most common symptoms of parvo in dogs is diarrhea. Loose or abnormal stool can be the result of a lot of contributing factors like dietary changes or allergies, but in puppies can be especially alarming. Diarrhea occurring in unvaccinated puppies or adult dogs can be an indicator that they have been infected with parvo. After examination, your vet can determine whether the symptom is a result of parvo. Lethargy Parvovirus can also cause an energy decline in your dog and lethargy can be a resulting symptom. While it's normal for your dog to enjoy a nice long nap after some serious playtime, if your dog begins to exhibit signs of a significant decrease in energy, it is always a good idea to describe the changes in behavior to your veterinarian. Lethargy in dogs looks more like a slower response to stimuli, acting out of character, less interest in activities they otherwise enjoy like going out for a walk , and grogginess. Dogs need lots of nutrients, especially growing puppies and a puppy not eating could lead to significant weight loss or anorexia. Fever Fever is another common symptom associated with parvo. Just like with many illnesses, the body responds by increasing its internal temperature. Dogs naturally have a higher body temperature than humans, with the average ranging from around .If your dog is suffering from a fever, there can be visual indicators such as red eyes, a decrease in energy, a dry nose, warm ears, coughing, and shivering, similar to that in humans. When your pup develops a fever, its immune system is trying to fight off the virus by increasing its body temperature to make it harder for the virus to survive. Vomiting Similar to diarrhea, vomiting can be a resulting symptom of parvo in dogs. Some dogs have particularly sensitive stomachs, but vomiting in combination with some of the other signs can indicate a parvo infection. There could be many reasons for your dog throwing up , but it is always best to play it safe and rule out any illnesses or possibilities that your dog ate something toxic or has been infected by a virus. Knowing the signs of depression in dogs is the next best thing to them telling you themselves. One of the symptoms of parvo in a dog can be depression due to feeling sick. Paying close attention to body language, lethargy, a decrease in appetite, or any major changes in behavior that deviate from their normal pattern could potentially mean your puppy has got the blues. Constantly feeling sick and not being able to enjoy things as they usually would get any puppy down, and parvo can make life for your canine friend miserable, so ensure you rule out this possibility. Dehydration occurs when the body is not getting enough water to a dangerous degree and are losing more than they are replenishing. If it bounces back to normal, your pup is probably getting enough liquids. If the skin seems to have difficulty getting back to its normal position, your dog may be dehydrated. When parvo infects a dog, the virus travels to their intestines, causing inflammation. The inflammation and intestinal bleeding from the virus make it very difficult to ingest anything since it will usually result in vomiting. This can lead to puppies becoming dehydrated, which should be treated as an emergency situation because, without proper treatment, your dog could develop septic shock and die. Septic Shock If left untreated, parvo can quickly develop and symptoms can worsen. One of the most alarming symptoms of parvo in dogs is septic shock. Septic shock occurs when there is an overwhelming infection in the body. When parvo enters your pup's digestive system, it can lead to inflammation and bleeding of the intestinal tract. This damage to the intestines can lead to the infection entering the bloodstream, therefore infecting the entire body. When septic shock occurs, it can be extremely difficult to treat which is why it is so urgent to get to your vet as soon as you may suspect they have contracted parvo. Signs consistent with septic shock include hypothermia, tachycardia, and a poor or weak pulse. They can offer you some peace of mind and advice on how to protect your pup if the results come back as negative for the virus. If your puppy did catch parvovirus, bringing them in as early as possible can help save their life and get them the proper medical care they need. If you suspect or have confirmed that your dog contracted parvo, it is important to strictly quarantine your pup immediately and inform others if you had any puppy playdates recently. Canine Parvovirus Prevention When it comes to parvo, knowledge, and prevention are key. The best thing you can do to ensure you keep your puppy safe is to take preventative measures and know the signs and symptoms just in case. Some parvo precautionary measures include: Follow strict isolation procedures if you suspect or have confirmed your dog has contracted parvo. Clean and disinfect any areas and surfaces the infected dog may have come into contact with. Follow CPV vaccination guidelines at weeks, weeks, and weeks of age, with a booster one-year following and another every three years after that. Limit the amount of contact your dog has with other unvaccinated dogs. Deworm your puppy if needed. Limit the public areas you go to with your dog prior to the age of vaccination. Initial signs that your dog may have contracted parvo are running a fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, and anorexia. These initial signs may progress and can result in vomiting and diarrhea within two days after showing their first symptom. What does a dog with parvo look like? The visual cues of a dog suffering from parvo can be any of the signs listed above. Knowing about the symptoms of parvo in dogs can give you a visual indication of whether your dog may be suffering from an illness or virus. Does parvo come on suddenly? Are some breeds at higher risk for parvo? Some breeds are at an increased risk for contracting parvo, including1: Rottweilers. Puppies are especially at risk for contracting the potentially life-threatening virus. As a German Shepherd owner, you want to make sure you are doing everything in your power to keep your dog healthy and happy. Treatment will be effective in the overwhelming majority of cases. The important thing is to start treatments as soon as possible and make sure you are prepared for every possibility. Contents What Is Parvovirus? Parvovirus is a serious and highly contagious illness that targets dogs. It does not harm humans but you are still capable of carrying the virus and spreading it to your dog. It attacks the digestive system causing your dog to have severe intestinal distress and become unable to retain fluids or nutrients. It also lowers their white blood cell count so that they are less able to fight off the virus and any other infection that tries to take hold while your dog is sick. Parvo is spread primarily through fecal matter and it is very, very contagious. Even a small speck of parvo carrying fecal matter brought in the house on the bottom of your shoe could be enough to get your unvaccinated dog sick. And if any pet in your house has it, strict quarantine is essential to keep your other pets safe. While it is so easy to spread, parvo is specific to dogs. So if your dog has parvo, your cats and the humans in your family are safe. When left untreated, parvo has an extremely high mortality rate. Symptoms Of Parvo In Dogs Symptoms start to become noticeable about 5 or 6 days after the dog has been infected. If left untreated, vomiting and diarrhea and the lack of appetite will become so severe that the dog will dehydrate and starve. Essentially, parvo will weaken your dog until it no longer has the strength to fight the virus. This is a painful and tragic process to watch. We are not trying to scare you but simply prepare you and make sure you understand just how important it is to get treatment for your dog as soon as you notice these symptoms. These symptoms indicate a serious illness that might be parvo or might be something else but, in either case, should be treated. When left untreated, parvo will almost certainly kill your dog. With treatment, however, most dogs will recover. So with those statistics in mind, read more about what treatment actually involves. Parvo Treatment Once parvo takes hold, you and your German Shepherd will have a tough road ahead of you. However, survival is possible and, in fact, if treated, the overwhelming majority of dogs will survive a battle with parvovirus. The biggest health risk is dehydration. With the diarrhea and vomiting, your dog is losing a lot of fluids. They will not be able to drink water quickly enough to replace the lost fluids. Alongside dehydration, they are losing a lot of nutrients and their lack of appetite prevents them from restoring those lost nutrients. As their body weakens from these things, they become less capable of fighting the virus and they became more susceptible to secondary bacterial infections. Because it requires an IV, most parvo cases are treated by hospitalization which can get expensive. It is possible to do this treatment at home. But you will need instructions and training from your vet to learn how to administer the IV and how to care for your German Shepherd properly while it heals. If you plan to do home treatment, you also need to be prepared to invest a lot of time into caring for your pup while it recovers. Your German Shepherd should not be left alone at any point while it is battling parvo. Someone needs to be with them at all times. Treatment at home will involve: Quarantine. Keep your sick dog quarantined to a specific room or area of the house until they are virus free. You need to be extra vigilant about cleaning and keeping your home sanitized during this period. Thoroughly clean food and water dishes with soap and water daily. Vacuum and mop times per week. Wash your hands before and after handling your ill dog. It is possible to learn to do an IV on your own. Do not skip this. Dehydration is the most pressing threat followed by nutrient loss and bacterial infection. Your vet will likely prescribe a course of antibiotics that are probably given via injection. Make sure that you administer these as instructed and use the full course of treatment even after your dog appears to be fully recovered. Relieve symptoms. Use other medicines or herbal supplements like the one mentioned below to help alleviate the painful symptoms of parvo. This will keep your dog more comfortable and help give them the strength they need to recover from parvo more rapidly. Here is one of our favorite herbal supplements for treating parvovirus: Paxxin All-Natural Parvo Aid This is an herbal supplement created to help animals recover from Parvo. It helps treat the symptoms like digestive distress and it also stimulates appetite. If given to your dog before symptoms show for example, if you suspect they might have contracted parvo , it is very effective at eliminating the illness before it has a chance to cause serious damage. However, if symptoms are visible, this will not be a strong enough treatment on its own. As mentioned, keeping your dog hydrated via IV bags will be essential. Preventing Parvovirus Prevention is the best way to keep your dog healthy and happy. It is the cheaper and nicer option. There is a vaccination that you can get to make your German Shepherd immune to parvo. You can get your dog vaccinated at the vet or buy an injection and do it yourself. Here are a few things to be aware of when you are getting your dog vaccinated: Your German Shepherd should be at least 8 weeks old before you start the vaccinations. So if your puppy is still too young to get vaccinated, make sure to be extra vigilant about the other at home prevention methods discussed below. The first vaccination will happen in a series of typically 3 separate vaccinations. These are given every 3 to 4 weeks. Dogs that are currently sick or pregnant or suffer an immune system disorder should not be vaccinated. So if any of those things are possible, see a vet before vaccinating. If your dog has had allergic reactions to other vaccines in the past, talk to your vet before giving it the parvo shot. Overall, vaccination is the best way to keep your dog safe from parvo. So the parvo vaccination is your fail safe that will ensure your dog is protected. At Home Prevention Whether our dog is too young for vaccination or otherwise unable to get the vaccine, at home prevention is important. Parvovirus is highly contagious and super easy to spread. It can also survive an unusually long time even without a host. So the best thing you can do to prevent Parvo at home is to practice proper sanitary methods that keep your home clean and free of parvo. Parvo spreads primarily through fecal matter. So feces in your yard could be hosting the deadly virus. Minimize this threat by either training your dog to use a specific section of the yard only for easier clean up on your part or just make sure you are regularly scooping poop from your yard. Keep unvaccinated pets indoors. You have more control over the indoor environment than the outdoor one. Clean floors and surfaces with diluted bleach. Mix about half a cup of bleach with a gallon of water. Use this mixture to clean floors. This will help remove any lingering parvovirus. Leave shoes outside. You could unknowingly be tracking in parvo from the outside world across your carpet and floor by wearing shoes in the house. Take them off before you come in to keep your home parvo free. Wash your hands. Wash your hands as soon as you come home. Especially if you have come in contact with any other dogs while you were out. Keep watch for symptoms. The earlier you can catch parvo, the better. Keep an eye out for the symptoms described earlier. Consider using Parvaid or something similar if your dog might have been exposed. For example, if you took them to a dog park or you caught them eating feces or recently took them to the vet. This can stop the virus in its tracks. With this information, you are now prepared to protect your German Shepherd from the dangers of parvo. And if your dog already has parvo, get them started on treatment immediately. So remain alert, and remain dedicated to their health. Your German Shepherd can beat this! Last Updated on October 18, by Post navigation. The canine parvovirus CPV infection is a highly contagious viral illness that affects dogs. The virus manifests itself in two different forms. The more common form is the intestinal form, which is characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and lack of appetite anorexia. The less common form is the cardiac form, which attacks the heart muscles of very young puppies, often leading to death. The majority of cases are seen in puppies that are between six weeks and six months old. The incidence of canine parvovirus infections has been reduced radically by early vaccination in young puppies. Symtoms The major symptoms associated with the intestinal form of a canine parvovirus infection include severe, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, fever, vomiting, and severe weight loss. The intestinal form of CPV affects the body's ability to absorb nutrients, and an affected animal will quickly become dehydrated and weak from lack of protein and fluid absorption. The wet tissue of the mouth and eyes may become noticeably red and the heart may beat too rapidly. Dogs that have contracted CPV may also have a low body temperature hypothermia , rather than a fever. Causes - Most cases of CPV infections are caused by a genetic alteration of the original canine parvovirus: the canine parvovirus type 2b. The virus can also be brought into a dog's environment by way of shoes that have come into contact with infected feces. There is evidence that the virus can live in ground soil for up to a year. It is resistant to most cleaning products, or even to weather changes. If you suspect that you have come into contact with feces at all, you will need to wash the affected area with household bleach, the only disinfectant known to kill the virus. Improper vaccination protocol and vaccination failure can also lead to a CPV infection. Breeding kennels and dog shelters that hold a large number of inadequately vaccinated puppies are particularly hazardous places. Diseases or drug therapies that suppress the normal response of the immune system may also increase the likelihood of infection. Diagnosis - CPV is diagnosed with a physical examination, biochemical tests, urine analysis, abdominal radiographs, and abdominal ultrasounds. A chemical blood profile and a complete blood cell count will also be performed. Low white blood cell levels are indicative of CPV infection, especially in association with bloody stools. Biochemical and urine analysis may reveal elevated liver enzymes, lymphopenia, and electrolyte imbalances. Abdominal radiograph imaging may show intestinal obstruction, while an abdominal ultrasound may reveal enlarged lymph nodes in the groin, or throughout the body, and fluid-filled intestinal segments. You will need to give a thorough history of your pet's health, recent activities, and onset of symptoms. If you can gather a sample of your dog's stool, or vomit, your veterinarian will be able to use these samples for microscopic detection of the virus. Those puppies that have had one or two in the recommended schedule of vaccines will often have an advantage over those without in actual chances of recovery. The build up an immunity against parvo and all the other diseases, veterinarians recommended vaccination schedule is a loading dose at six weeks, a follow up four weeks later and another given four weeks after that. Six months after the last DHLP-P is given, a follow up parvo vaccination is given and then the vaccines go to an annual injection that is usually given with the law required Rabies shot. Parvo is a relatively recent disease. Its first reported cases occurred in and proceeded to lay waste to large numbers of the canine population. Parvo is a highly contagious viral disease that can be spread in a number of ways. Contact with the feces or vomit of an infected dog is the source of the infection but tracing it back to the contagious dog can be extremely hard to do. A puppy can come into an environment in which a contagious dog was in up to six months previously. Strays can spread it by sniffing with another dog through the fence. In , humans were and still are one of the main carriers of the disease. Dog breeders at that time were often wiped out as entire litters as well as their adult dogs became infected with the disease as would be buyers would go to several different sites looking for a puppy. These buyers would come into contact with an infected dog and carry the disease to each stopping place along the way on their hands, clothes or even shoes. With infection, the disease will often take one of two forms: the diarrheal and the cardiac form. Puppies not treated for the disease will often dehydrate and die quickly. Congestive heart failure in itself will cause the premature death of the puppy. A veterinarian who suspects parvovirus may run a series of different tests to prove the infection. One of the oldest and most reliable tests is to simply do a white cell count. A marked decrease in these cells is a good sign of parvovirus being present. There are also tests that can be run on a small stool sample, which most veterinarians can run in office with results given within ten to fifteen minutes. If the test shows positive for the disease, the owner then has to decide on a course of action. The preferred course is an extended hospital stay, IV fluids given through out the day, medications given to slow the gastrointestinal tract and antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. The cost of these treatments is high and only the owner can decide if they can afford to proceed and it must be remembered that even with the best of veterinary care, there is no guarantee that the dog will survive. The vaccines are fairly inexpensive and can be gotten not only through a veterinarian but also through feed and even some drug stores. They are injected under the skin with few puppies having reactions. Please do not use our website to attempt to diagnose or treat your pet. The consultation with your veterinarian is the best source of health advice for your individual pet. You should not rely, on the veterinary advice or any other information provided on this site for the diagnosis or treatment of any specific condition. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the medical condition or general treatment of your pet. GSD Resources.

Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article. Our primary objective is to assist you in locating the appropriate French Bulldog puppy for sale in your neighborhood History of French Bulldog French Bulldogs are considered one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and around the world. They are known for their affectionate and playful personalities and are often kept as companion animals. The breed is a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was brought to France by English lacemakers. The French Bulldog was then developed by crossing the English Bulldog with local small breeds, such as the Terrier, to create a smaller, more delicate version of the English Bulldog. During the 19th century, French Bulldogs were used for bull-baiting and dog fighting. They quickly gained popularity among the upper class in France, especially in Paris, where they were considered a symbol of luxury and elegance. In the late 19th century, French Bulldogs were brought to the United States by American tourists who fell in love with the breed while visiting France. Temperament of Frenchies The temperament of a French Bulldog is generally described as affectionate, playful, and sociable. They are known to be good with children and other pets and make great companion animals. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes them easy to train and manage. French Bulldogs are very loyal to their owners, and they have a strong desire to be close to their family. They have a playful nature, and they love to play and interact with their owners. French Bulldogs are known for their expressive personalities, and they are known to be very vocal. They are known to make a variety of noises, including grunts, snores, and snorts, which can be quite endearing. They are also known for their sense of humor and their ability to make their owners laugh. One of the most striking characteristics of French Bulldogs is their easy going nature. They are known to be adaptable and easy to live with, which makes them great family pets. They are also known to be relatively low maintenance, as they do not require a lot of exercise or grooming. Meet Coco! She is a French Bulldog looking for her perfect companion. This amazing gal is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, plus the breeder provides a 1 year genetic health guarantee. She is super social and is being raised with children that play with her daily. Her momma is Suzanne. Coco is ready to brighten all your days with kisses.