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Teaching Proper Socialization One of the main reasons why it is not recommended to get a puppy under the age of 7 or 8 weeks is because puppies at this age still need a lot to learn from their mother and littermates. The role of the mother dog is not only to give birth and nurse the puppies but also to teach her puppies their first few life-lessons that include self-discipline and social interaction. As her puppies begin to play with each other and tease their mother, the German Shepherd mother becomes an active teacher and role model. If the puppies bite her or their littermates too hard, she disciplines the offending puppy by swinging her tail and even growling at the mischievous puppy. The mother will keep delivering the correction, week after week until the pups fully understand to control the strength of their bite. Timid mother dog may make her puppies cowardly, as can an overly aggressive mother. Ideally, what you want to see is a German Shepherd mother dog who is calm, stable, and confident. Pierantoni, M. Albertini, and F. Pirrone 1. They compared two groups, consisting of 70 adult dogs each. One group had been separated from their litters at 30 to 40 days, while the second group had been separated from their litters at 8 weeks. The veterinarians concluded that the chance of behavioral disorders occurring in the first group was significantly higher than in the second group. The behavioral disorders explained in the study include destructiveness, excessive barking, fearfulness on walks, noise reactivity, food or toy possessiveness, and attention-seeking behavior. It Is Illegal in Some States The second reason why you should avoid buying a puppy under 8 weeks old is that in 26 states, it is illegal to buy a puppy that is deemed too young 2. Of those, 22 states state that all puppies must be 8 weeks old. The remaining three states—Wisconsin, Virginia, and Maine—require that all puppies must be at least 7 weeks old before they can be sold. For example, in the state of Kansas, in order to be legal to sell puppies, breeders need to make sure that the puppies must be 8 weeks old and weaned 3. A puppy that has been weaned too early can develop many behavioral problems that will follow him throughout his life. Some of the signs that your German shepherd puppy has been weaned too early include aggression, excessive biting, destruction, possession, and separation anxiety. In addition to behavioral issues, the puppy can also develop health issues such as malnutrition and a weakened immune system. Going After an Older Dog If a puppy that is too young is risky, then what about adopting an older puppy? Some people may be tempted to adopt an older puppy hoping to skip the tasks involved with the younger pup, from housetraining to car riding. If you select the right pup, you may be able to avoid some of these situations. However, bear in mind that older pups are less accepting of new people and new situations. That said, older pups can make a terrific companion if you know where and how to select them. Where to Get a German Shepherd Puppy? Thanks to their popularity, German shepherd puppies are available in so many different places that deciding where to look can be stressful. Here are some of the most popular places to buy a German shepherd dog: Breeders Buying a German shepherd puppy from a breeder is still your best bet for obtaining a healthy, lovable German shepherd. As is true in all professions, there are good breeders and bad breeders. So what are the differences between good breeders and others? Their reputations are such that customers come to them. They also temperament test every puppy to ensure the best possible placement. You should ask lots of questions too. Asking the right questions can help you to winnow the bad breeders from the good ones. Furthermore, there are lots that you can learn from established breeders. They can tell you more than you possibly imagined about the breed. The common assumption is that these dogs are abandoned because they have problems. However, this is not always the case. According to some statistics, German Shepherds are one of the most common breeds found in shelters. In the right home, these dogs can make great companions. This is why you should not be dissuaded from considering shelter when choosing a puppy or dog. Breed Rescue Groups If you are willing to accept a grown dog instead of a puppy, breed rescue can be the right place for you. Breed rescues are organizations that work with a single breed or a couple of related breeds. They are run by volunteers, comprised of experienced breeders, trainers, and owners of that breed. Thus, you can be sure that these people know what they are doing. As for the fee, it is a steal often just the cost of the veterinary care. Pet Stores The last and the worst option for getting a puppy is a pet store. No reputable breeders in their right minds will send the cream of their litters to pet stores. If they do send their puppies here, the puppies are usually undersized or poor conformation. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Territorial boundaries Are German Shepherds naturally protective? Yes, German Shepherds are naturally protective. They can get aggressive towards intruders and strangers. They have a natural guarding instinct. Will my German Shepherd protect me without training? Yes, luckily, this breed is capable of protecting its owner and family even without training. Loyalty and possessiveness are in the blood of German Shepherds, and they can go to any extent to protect their owners. As a German Shepherd owner, you must know about the difference between an aggressive and a dangerous dog. Is a male or female German Shepherd more protective? Although both genders of this breed are protective and loyal, males are more dominant in this trait. You will notice that both male and female German Shepherds are famous for barking at strangers to protect their homes. Male German Shepherds are more aggressive as compared to female German Shepherds. In this way, male dogs increase their protectiveness for the family as well as for the home. How to train a German Shepherd to be a guard dog? If you adopt a German Shepherd with the intention to make them a guard dog, you need to start training them from puppyhood. By doing this, your dog will understand the difference between regular and suspicious activity. Socialized puppies are never afraid of strangers or intruders. To socialize your pup, take him along and allow him to meet different people for multiple experiences. Make sure to have a firm grip over the leash of your German Shepherd to keep it safe from any bad experience. Enrolling in an obedience class Enrolling your German Shepherd in a dog obedience class is always a good approach. In this way, you can make a German Shepherd obedient and quick to respond to your commands. If you are willing to put your dog under guard training, control will be imperative. Positive enforcement or encouragement is crucial when your dog is learning to attack or bark at intruders. Make sure to provide treats to keep it motivated. Bark on command If your dog is not aware of this command, it may bark at every stranger. This way, you can order your German Shepherd to attack suspicious people. Dog alertness at home Install some sort of alarm in your home so that the pup will get to know when someone is trying to enter the home illegally. Practice this situation by turning on the alarm. Wait for your dog to bark at the intruder. When your pup is doing it correctly, serve it with a treat. In this way, your German Shepherd will learn the behavior to bark at intruders even without the presence of an alarm. Make sure that your pup is not learning to chase while you are teaching it about guarding. Chasing is not a good practice because it may harm any stranger who is not suspicious. Consider hiring a trainer to teach your dog how to be a guard dog. Territorial boundaries Walk your dog around the perimeter of your home. Your dog needs to learn to bark at strangers once they enter your property. German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds of dog in the country. They are renowned for their strength, agility, and fierceness, as well as their ability to protect their families. The best age to buy a German Shepherd puppy is around seven to eight weeks. This ensures that the pup is not taken from its mother too early, but still has enough time to integrate into being a part of your family. Read on for more tips on when the best age is to bring home your new German Shepherd pup. If you try to adopt or purchase a German Shepherd puppy earlier than seven weeks, you will likely encounter several problems. The first of these problems is like the legality of purchasing a dog at such a young age. The District of Columbia is the only state or district in the country that allows puppies to be sold at the age of six weeks. The second problem that you will likely encounter if you try to buy a German Shepherd puppy earlier than that seven-week mark is a lack of puppy socialization. The American Kennel Club states that puppies begin their socialization period at the age of six weeks , while an article from Psychology Today written with help from a prestigious dog breeder suggests that socialization begins even earlier — as early as three weeks old in some breeds. This socialization period is important because it allows puppies to learn essential behaviors from the other puppies in their litter as well as from their mother. When puppies begin to play and bite with their siblings and their mother, they will learn that these behaviors are not okay because their family members will bite at them or bark, which will teach the puppy that those behaviors are not okay. If your puppy is rehomed too young, they will miss out on these important lessons and will be disobedient. While the puppy will have to be separated from its mother, eventually, this process should not be allowed to happen too early. If pups are taken away from their mother too young, they will suffer from behavioral issues that are deeper than just poor socialization. Due to factors such as lack of maternal soothing, premature weaning, and separation anxiety, puppies who are removed from their mothers too early are prone to fear and aggression. In a study conducted in the journal Veterinary Record as quoted in the Psychology Today article , it was determined that pups who were taken from their mothers before the age of 40 days around 5. Finding the right timing to bring home a German Shepherd puppy can be tricky. There are a few factors that make it difficult to properly raise a German Shepherd puppy if you bring it home after that eight-week mark. The reason that people buy puppies so young is that they want their dog to be able to become a well-socialized part of the family unit. The second reason you should get a German Shepherd puppy before it passes eight weeks old is that it makes obedience and work training much easier to accomplish. They will need to be able to perform commands and tasks through nudges, picking up items with their mouths, and calling for help or assistance in order to help their owner. This is why training organizations teach puppies as young as possible so they can be competent service animals for people with disabilities. German Shepherds can easily be trained as seeing-eye dogs as well as animals that help people with epilepsy or neurological disorders. The author of the Psychology Today article believes that if puppies are left in the litter for too long, they will begin to build a sort of hierarchy or to peck order among themselves. Because German Shepherds have that reputation for aggressive behavior, you want to mitigate this potential as quickly as possible. Summary The best age to adopt a German Shepherd puppy is between the ages of seven and eight weeks old. This is the age suggested by the American Kennel Club as well as psychological researchers. It is also illegal in most areas of the country to rehome a puppy before the age of seven weeks, save for the District of Columbia. No breeder should be selling a puppy younger than six weeks old. At the same time, you should not let the puppy remain with its litter after the age of eight weeks to avoid aggression and to make training easier. Best age for buying a GSD? People say that the best age is Months so he can be trained and took all the vaccines. .Others say buying a pup months is the best way the dog get used to his living place and the his family! I don't know which is right and which is wrong. Now with that being said let me clarify that by saying that you really need to match the age of the German Shepherd you bring home to fit you and your home and your needs. Maybe you have needs for an older dog because you don't want to go through all the puppy teething, housetraining, etc. I would have to say though that maybe a first time owner would do better with an older, calmer German Shepherd. Check with your local rescues and shelters for potential companions. Then again, maybe you do want a puppy instead of an older GSD - maybe you have other pets and kids that you want the puppy to grow up with that might not accept an older German Shepherd easily. And you're willing to go through weeks of teething, housetraining and the whole nine yards. And that's all right too. Truth be told, you really need to assess your own situation and your needs - not necessarily your wants - about what will be the best pet for you - an older GSD or a GSD puppy. Both can make good pets in the right home and both have very specific, but different, needs. But for a first time owner an older GSD would be a great choice. Either way, training and socialization will be very important too. So take your time, think it through and good luck getting your new German Shepherd. How to begin with training a puppy and get a running start. Everyone has to have their first puppy and, just like with having a first child, there is a lot of learning involved. What age should you start training a German Shepherd? Whether you have a puppy or an older German Shepherd. I have learned that starting as soon as you bring your puppy home. This will prevent behavior problems from developing. Some people start at 8: weeks to 12 weeks or four months to six months of age depending on how old the puppy was when they purchased. I put together a beginner mini-guide below- to help you get started with a new puppy. You want to get your puppy on the right training schedule. How to housebreak a German Shepherd puppy? It works. Morning The first thing that you should do is let your puppy out of its crate and take it directly outside to go potty. An eight-week-old puppy needs to eat three to four meals each day. Your puppy should be given a bowl of water with its meal and be permitted to drink as much as it wants. Give your puppy about ten minutes to relax after it has eaten and then go back outside for potty. Before its next meal, your puppy should be taken out every hour in order to prevent accidents and should be placed into its crate whenever it will not be directly supervised. Crates are great for everyday use as they keep your puppy out of danger when it is not by your side. Afternoon Your afternoon will mirror your morning almost exactly. Your puppy will need to be taken outside if it has been crated, fed its afternoon meal and then taken outside again. When not being supervised, your puppy should be gated off into a completely puppy-proofed room or crated. Your puppy will get a meal, go outside, and be placed in a safe room or crate when not supervised. Throughout the day, use your puppies name in connection with positive things. This will help your puppy learn his name more quickly. Having a puppy in the house is fun for everyone in the family. Your job is to make sure that the puppy is given a predictable, structured environment to grow up in. German Shepherd Puppy Training: Training a puppy at a young age will prevent bad behavior from developing into big-time behavior problems. Some of us start at eight weeks, others start at 10 to 12 weeks old. Laying out the groundwork for leash training a puppy. With step by step video training guide. Video one; Leash training your puppy will be one of the first things you and I will need to do with our new German Shepherd puppy! Learning can be a challenge for many of us. Today I like to share a video with my friend Tonny and his new puppy Named Nora at 10 weeks old. This her first leash training exercise. What I have learned from my own experience; I like to practice this exercise 2 or 3 times a day for 4 to 6 minutes at a time every day- when training young pups at this age. Sometimes we as humans expect too much too fast and can forget what we learn from owning our last dog. We forgot puppyhood. I know I have made this mistake before. I have learned after training multiple German Shepherd puppies , how to spend a good enough amount of time working them by training shot training sessions to get the best results. Tony and his wife Shannon are teaching her how to walk on a leash in the street under real-world distractions. If you have never trained a puppy before learning these training skills will be challenging for anybody just learning. But done let it stop you from practicing. With just a little bit of time and patience, you and your puppy will come a long way together. I have learned this is the most important part of training our puppy and will build and strengthens our bond together for starting our new journey. Once your puppy is showing that they are understanding what the heel command means, now we can start to add in the sit-stay command. This is a command we will use every day with our puppy. Watch how Shannon works with her puppy in this video. Nora will get a little distracted when she is walking by me and her husband Tony. Dog training is all about doing things together as a team. Building trust and leadership with your new best friend. Always start off with your attention training and practicing around your home and in your yard. A little bit of practice goes a long way. I would love to hear about all your success. I will be sharing more training videos with you soon! Best of luck with your training. About the author: Dennis is the founder of German Shepherd Behavior. I have owned this breed for over 25 years and looking forward to sharing my German Shepherd journey with you. The new owners are very gentle with the puppy and simply talk softly to him and give him pats and toys as he gets settled in. Sadly, the Puppy Mill Project states there are more than 10, puppy mills operating just in the United States alone. Puppy mills keep breeding pairs of dogs in often horrific conditions and take the puppies away from their moms much too soon so they can breed another litter of puppies. The Humane Society states that there are some warning signs you can watch for to indicate you may be getting your puppy from an unethical breeder or even from a puppy mill: The breeder is willing to release the puppy to you at a very early age before the age of eight weeks. The breeder will not allow you to visit their kennel and see their operation or meet the parent dogs — they only sell at off-site locations or over the internet. Here again, this question is a topic of often intense debate between different breeders. As one canine biologist explains in Psychology Today , the very earliest any puppy should be allowed to leave the litter and go to their new home is 79 days seven weeks. But many other breeders feel that even seven weeks is too early, as the GSDCA article cited earlier here states. There are a variety of reasons why letting a puppy leave the litter sooner than seven to eight weeks is considered a bad idea. The puppy is still too little and fragile Some breeders believe a primary reason to keep puppies with the mom and littermates longer is that puppies are very little and easily injured. However, because the German Shepherd is a large breed dog and has a sturdier body to start with, some breeders may be apt to release GSD puppies closer to the eight week age range. In contrast, smaller and toy dog breeds that are very delicate may need a bit longer to grow up before going to their new home. The puppy needs to learn social skills Another common reason why many breeders feel that puppies should stay with their litters and mothers at least until they turn eight weeks old is that the puppy will learn important social skills. The best trainer for any German Shepherd puppy is typically going to be the mother dog. As well, GSD puppies will have the chance to play and learn from their littermates and get comfortable with having people around by watching their mother interact with the breeder. Some theories suggest that this initial period of dog-to-dog socialization needs to happen before the dog-to-people socialization so the puppy can learn to be a dog first and then to be a companion to humans next. This benefit is simply that the German Shepherd breeder is experienced working with this dog breed and can give your puppy some early expert training and socialization with people. The difference here would be bringing home a puppy that is already used to a collar and lead, puppy pads, and some initial potty training commands, playing with toys and being handled by people. The rehoming process is always going to be stressful enough on its own that you want to be sure your puppy has the most confidence possible before coming home with you. Set aside time to just be with your puppy Your puppy is going to be a bit nervous or even frightened at first — this is normal. Rehoming is a big change. You can make it easier by just carving out time to sit nearby, praising your puppy, offering pats, and talking softly. These guidelines can ensure that your new German Shepherd puppy feels at home right away living with you. The idea of having a German Shepherd puppy as a pet will be the right choice and you will not regret it as they are known for their ability of strength, agility, intelligence, and protective nature towards their owner. You should also know that the best age to adopt a German Shepherd puppy is when are seven to eight weeks older but at the same time, you should also know why you should not adopt them just after their birth. German Shepherd pups are just like human children, they too are highly attached to their mothers. They too learn many things from their mother and taking them away from their mother just after their birth will impact them adversely. There are plenty of reasons why you should not take German Shepherd pups just after birth their mother which you should also know before adopting them. Taking German Shepherd pups too sooner will affect both the child as well as the mother so you should avoid adopting them too sooner. German Shepherd pups do learn many things from their mother which play a very important role in their personality development and ultimately in survival in this world. The mother of a young German Shepherd puppy is also responsible for teaching them during the initial socialization period because they can learn animal behavior and social skills when they are about 3 to 5 weeks older. A mother is the first teacher of not only a human child but also of a young German Shepherd puppy. With the help of their mother, the German Shepherd puppy can scan and properly play behaviors and communication skills with other dogs and animals. They also understand the impulse bite inhibition from their brothers, sisters, and ofcourse their mother. However, some research also shows that the puppies who are taken away from their mother at very early stages of their lives show some problems in behavior and temperament when they become adults, here their temperament will include aggression, and fear, and will become difficult to train. This is the reason German Shepherd pups should not be taken away sooner after their birth from their mother. Basic Socialization Learning Basic Socialization is one of the major reasons for not taking away German Shepherd puppies from their mother under the actual age recommended or just after their birth as German Shepherd pups learn the initial phase of socialization from their mother. It is well said that mothers are the best teacher for children at the initial stage of life as is the case with puppies. German Shepherd pups learn many basic socialization techniques from their mother and they teach them to interact with other dogs or animals and also self-discipline. No doubt mothers play role models for their pups, they play crucial roles in behaving well with other animals. They also play the role of savior for some time as a result their pups feel safe if they see their mother near. On the other hand, socialization is also important for German Shepherd puppies as according to Dr. Sally Foote, one of the best veterinarian and behaviorists, the socialization period in puppies generally lasts from between 6 and to weeks of age. State Of Legalization Legalization is another process why you should not adopt German Shepherd pups at a very early stage of their life as many states do not allow the purchase of German Shepherd pups that are under 8 weeks of age. However, there are some states like Maine, Wisconsin, and Virginia that allow the purchase of pups that must be at least seven weeks of age. This very law is very impactful and good for the pups as it prohibits the greed of backyard breeders or other irresponsible breeders whose only purpose is to earn profit through illegal breeding. So you should also think twice before buying German Shepherd pups and go through the legal process implemented by the government. German Shepherds are considered to be the best companion of their owners and they are known for their protective nature towards their beloved ones. They are also popular for their strength, intelligence, and loyalty which makes them the perfect breed to be pet by lovable owners. Every dog lover will enjoy German Shepherds as a pet and their dream will come true if they bring this new companion home. However, there are a few things that you should also look at before buying a GSD puppy if you want full service of this breed. Here are 5 key points that you should look at before buying a German Shepherd: 1. Research On Reputable Breeder One of the most important things before buying a German Shepherd puppy is you should do proper research on breeders. They should be experienced, genuine and follow all government rules and regulations. You should also do inquiries about the parents of German Shepherd pups and look after their appearance and temperament. You should also understand that there are many breeders whose main purpose is to earn profit while some breed with good intentions. So always do some research before having German Shepherds as your pet and do a proper investigation of the breeders. Find The Reputable Breeder If you have done some research about the breeders before the purchase of a GSD puppy then you must be able to find a genuine and reputable breeder. Finding a suitable breeder will allow you to get the original breed and will prohibit the false breeder whose only aim is to earn profit. Always choose a breeder who has already completed all the certifications of German Shepherds and also done necessary health issues. The health certificate must include German Shepherd dogs who must not have any symptoms of hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye disorder, and their mental temperament. Evaluation Method Every new dog owner must go through an evaluation method before buying a German Shepherd. The evaluation method includes, you must evaluate the breeder and asking your query regarding the breeding of German Shepherds. You may ask the breeder the following queries: Their Breeding Experience.

If your French bulldog is young, keep training sessions to about 5 minutes, increasing the time if your dog is older. Plan on doing 3 to 5 training sessions a day. Try to pick times when your dog isn't hungry or tired so your dog will be more focused on learning. Be consistent and patient with your dog. This command will come in useful when you need to teach your dog not to bite or chew natural tendencies for younger dogs. If your dog bites or nips you or you see your dog chewing, tap its nose lightly and say, "No bite" or "No chew. Lowell Ackerman. Have your dog stand in front of you and place a treat in your hand so your dog can see it in your palm. Firmly say, "sit" in a friendly voice while you push your dog's bottom down until your dog sits. Give your dog the treat immediately and tell it good job. Repeat this process by stepping away from your dog. Turn to face your dog and tell it to sit. Place your dog in a sit position while you put a treat in your hand. Make sure your dog knows you have the treat in your hand and put your hand near its nose. Move your hand to the floor while you say "down" or "lay down. As soon as your dog does or tries , give the treat and praise. Practice this command until your dog goes down consistently. If your young dog jumps to your attention or while playing, keep your dog on a leash to correct its behavior. As your dog starts to jump, command your dog to "sit" and reward. Your dog will learn not to jump on people. Edited by Julie Shaw and Debbie Martin. Have your dog sit and praise your dog when your dog obeys. Put your hand in front of its face like you're hand is a stop sign. Firmly say "stay" and back away slowly. If your dog starts to run to you, start again by commanding your dog to sit. Repeat the command to stay and back away again. Repeat this until your dog consistently obeys. Begin this command when your dog is playing or sniffing around a fenced area. Crouch down, slap your thighs and say "come" in a friendly voice. This will make your dog think you want to play and your dog will run over to play with you. When your dog does, reward it with a treat and lots of praise. Volume 3. Steven R. Blackwell Publishing. Landsberg, W. Hunthausen and L. This is a good way to test your dog's response to the command. If your dog begins barking and you need to silence your dog, keep a bag of treats handy. When your dog barks, take a treat out and say "quiet. It may take a while but eventually your dog will understand that you expect it to quiet down when you say quiet. Teach your dog to associate a clicking sound from a clicker device as a reward for following a command. To do this, click the device and give your dog a treat. Practice training your dog and whenever it obeys, click the device and give a treat. Eventually, your dog will associate correct behavior with the clicker sound. Once your dog is familiar with the clicker, you can wean your dog off the treats and clicking sound so that the dog just responds to the command and clicker. Train your Frenchie here! You should start training your French Bulldog puppy as soon as you get them home. Puppy brains are a lot bigger than we think — they soak up so much good information despite their young age. French Bulldogs can be a rather independent breed of dog. In fact, we sometimes might feel like we need them more than they need us! What age can I start to train my French Bulldog puppy? You can start training your French Bulldog puppy as soon as you get them home. Build positive training experiences with Zigzag! We can start you off with a personalised training programme straight away in the Zigzag puppy training app , in fact, you can even use it before you bring your Frenchie puppy home as we have a pre-puppy section. Before bringing your French Bulldog puppy home, you can also get in touch with our Zigzag puppy experts with any of the many questions you may have! While blingy collars and outfits might be top of the list, there are some more sensible things you need to get your French Bulldog puppy that will help with your training. Here are my top picks for getting prepared for training your Frenchie. My favourite all-rounder is the Rapid Rewards treat pouch , it comes in many colours and looks stylish when on. The Mikki treat pouch is also good and a bit cheaper. You can go to town and choose pretty colours and designs for Frenchies! A lead — Around 2m is a good length for a lead. A training lead is a good idea as you can change the lengths of them to suit. A comfortable mat or a piece of non-slip vet bed. Treats The more smelly, the better. Have a look at the best puppy treats here. Chews and chew toys — lots of them! Our faves for Frenchies are West Paw Toppl and hollow buffalo horns for stuffing food into, and cow ears and pizzles for edible chews. Two identical toys : Excellent for swaps — your French Bulldog puppy will be super playful and enjoy the retrieving games in the Zigzag app. Originally, French Bulldogs were bred from English Bulldogs, who had a shady past as bull-baiting dogs. People enjoyed their cheerful nature and kept them as companion dogs after these awful blood sports were prohibited. When the need for these workers declined in England, their skills were still required in France, so the workers relocated, bringing their dogs with them. Relocate your training to Zigzag! When they arrived in France, they were adored by shopkeepers, butchers, and, most infamously, Les Belles de Nuit — the ladies of the night! What does this have to do with how I train my French Bulldog? Knowing the characteristics of the breed will help you better train your Frenchie puppy and understand why they behave the way they do. Here are a few things to keep in mind: Frenchies are incredibly loving and enjoy being in the spotlight. They can have a lot of energy possibly even more than a lot of energy and enjoy an active home life. Lack of stimulation WILL foster self-employment; provide them with items to rip up and pull apart to keep them out of trouble. By the way, if you leave them to it, they WILL go into your recycling and have a field day. Frenchies often think they are big dogs, thus they often do well playing with dogs larger than them. They look dashing in them too! Image used with permission by copyright holder Are French Bulldogs easy to train? According to the AKC, French Bulldogs fondly known as Frenchies can be stubborn, but they are people-pleasers at heart, which makes them easy to train. Positive reinforcement is the way to go when it comes to working with this breed. By making a game out of training and rewarding with treats and praise, your Frenchie will be excited to learn. Recommended Videos Sharon Dykes , a board member of the French Bulldog Club of America, describes Frenchies as active, intelligent, alert, and playful dogs. Puppies will be ready to learn as soon as they arrive in your home, Dykes says. Puppies have short attention spans so training sessions should be short. Sessions can be broken into five minutes at a time and spread throughout the day. In addition to training at home, early socialization and puppy training classes will help your Frenchie grow into a well-adjusted adult. If all puppies in the class have had their initial vaccinations and are healthy and parasite-free, the health risks to your dog are low and the potential benefits are enormous, according to Horwitz. How do you discipline a French Bulldog? You should never discipline your dog with punishment. Not only is it cruel, but it will destroy the bond between you and your new puppy. Instead, stick with positive motivation training. This means redirecting your dog away from bad behavior and rewarding her for desired behavior. Ask once and wait for the dog to follow through before rewarding and praising. Everyone in the household should use the same cues and training techniques to avoid confusing your dog. How long does it take to train a French Bulldog puppy? As your puppy progresses in her basic obedience training, you may reach a bump in the road between 6 and 8 months of age. Her hormones will start to kick in at this point and she may try to establish her place within the pack. This is a good time to enroll your dog in more advanced training classes, according to Dykes. By the time your puppy is 1 year old, she should be well on her way to becoming a good canine citizen. Keeping training sessions fun and adding new skills will provide your Frenchie with the mental stimulation she needs to stay happy and healthy. Image used with permission by copyright holder How do you train a stubborn French Bulldog? In an article entitled Living with The French Bulldog, Dykes says that, while Frenchies have big hearts and are generous with their affection, they need an investment of time, love, and commitment on the part of their owners. Consistency is the key to success when working with Frenchies. Pet parents need to create a training schedule and then stick to it. Using high-quality treats that are reserved only for training is a great way to get your stubborn dog excited about learning. On a final note, remember that training is part of being a responsible pet parent. To love your dog is to learn with your dog say experts at the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh. Positive reward-based training will bring out the best in your French Bulldog while strengthening the bond between you and your pet. Editors' Recommendations. Training your French Bulldog 4 training tips to make your stubborn French Bulldog obedient French Bulldogs display strong unwillingness for training, making exercise stressful and frustrating for the them and the human at times. While they are playful and gentle, their stubbornness is on another level compared to other dog breeds and can be challenging to train at times. There are ways of getting your Frenchie to learn to obey your commands. Here are simple strategies to train your adorable Bulldog. Breeders usually re-home their Frenchie Bulldog as early as 8 weeks old. Immediately after bringing your French Bulldog home start with potty training your puppy. Designate a special potty area and stick to it. Take your puppy every 2 hours as Frenchie puppies cant hold their needs for longer than that when they are that young. You want the dog to start learning potty manners as early as possible to prevent future problems. If you allow your Frenchie to do their needs elsewhere it will complicate matters for you later. Frenchies are extremely intelligent and will resort to their own way of doing things if not trained otherwise. Your French Bulldog needs positive Reinforcements through Verbal and Physical Rewards French Bulldogs are highly emotional and can become sad when scolded. These dogs were bred to please, so any negative feedback hits them hard. Whenever the dog does the right thing without your guidance, reward your Frenchie bountifully. Stay positive always to build a trustworthy and positive relationship. Socialize your Frenchie with other dogs You want your pup to become fully integrated with your family as quickly as possible. Start integrating the dog into your household from the day of arrival. Frenchies love noise and activity, so let them play around and explore. On the same token it is crucial that your dog socialize with other dogs early on. You want your Frenchie to be able to play and be around dogs without aggression or issues that might come later in adulthood if not properly socialized. Use the proper Frenchie training tools Frenchies are brachycephalic dogs and this predisposes them to respiratory disorders. We would never recommend a training collar for this reason. Walking a brachy breed with a collar can disrupt airflow and even make the dogs eyes pop out of their socket or potentially cause other trachea injuries. According to the Humane Society of the US it is the safest to use a harness to restrain your Frenchie. A harness allows the dog to breath freely with little or no obstructions. Our Health Harness was designed for brachycephalic dogs. It makes for a great training tool without the dangers found in common pet accessories. The Health Harness is designed with dual D rings and double zink alloy buckles to provide a safe, no-choke, no-pull walk. The front D ring makes it ideal for training dogs that like to pull, along with those that have aggression and dominance issues. If you want your pooch to have a comfortable life, a quality Frenchie harness is an excellent investment. Train your dog how to walk besides you early on to avoid frustration in the future. Even if your dog is full grown our specialty designed Health Harness can make all the difference in the world. Frenchies are one of the most popular dog breeds on the planet. Miniature yet with giant characters, these adorable pooches are playful, intelligent, yet extremely stubborn. We believe that if you follow these 4 simple tips of training your Frenchie you can lead a healthy and positive relationship with your pooch. How to deal with an aggressive and dominant Frenchie? Tips and advice We received the following email asking for our advice in regards to an aggressive and dominant French Bulldog We adopted our Frenchie ex-breeder Mom almost 5 years ago. For example: Before Dixie, our two females rarely fought. And my pug would at least occasionally let me hold her. Now she tries to jump down immediately or else my bully will attempt to jump up on whoever holds her and attack her. Dixie also often growls when being pet and loved on, whereas any other dog would eat up the attention. And she seems to hate feet. Just wondered if you had any tips or suggestions at all. When we picked Dixie up from rescue she was sweet and timid, compliant and cuddly. Hi Lorrie: From reading your question there are a few key points you already know and are pointing out in your question which I would like to re-affirm: Dixie wants to be the alpha and the boss, wants to control the environment and the situation. Whoever is not in line with how she wants them to behave she will show aggression. First and foremost I would like you to ensure there is nothing medically or physically wrong with Dixie that will make her hostile or change her in anyways. The following tips will be given on the assumption that there is nothing wrong medically and her behavior changed over time due to her taking a certain role in the household that she feels is lacking. It is important to go back to the beginning and ask in what way you introduced her to the pack. It seems like the introduction was immediate and without much adjustment time. You say that she was originally going to be your daughter's dog and that didn't work out. This fact alone gives me an insight into the situation. Since things didn't work out the way they were planned I'm sure you were a bit puzzled and that rubbed off on Dixie. It seems that when she was added to the rest of the dogs in your household that created imbalance. From Dixie point of view she has taken the role of the mom and leader in the household and whoever is out of line she "disciplines" them by putting them in their place. It also seems like you are scared of her reaction and avoid doing certain things that will upset Dixie which is not helping the problem. We have a few recommendations to help this situation and they will all start and end with the one concept of you becoming the alpha and leader of the pack. When leaving your home with a hostile Frenchie You need to be the first leaving out of the door not any of the other dogs. Open the door slightly just for you to be able to stand in the opening, exercise standing there in front of your dogs while your dogs are still in the house for 1 minute increase by 1 minute daily until your dogs understand and wait patiently for 3 minutes without trying to trip you or escape first. This exercise will be hard to do at first but your dogs will soon learn you are the boss. In time you will be able to open the door wider and wider without them trying to be out of the door first.

Rumors of luv Remi Welcome to Rumors of luv boxers, we started about 20 years ago. We started with a wonderful American champion bloodline. We go back 6 to 7 generations in our breeding program with good longevity. We introduced some amazing European lines over the last 15 years to give more bone structure and squarer heads. One important character is disposition, we only breed leveled headed, easy to train and very intelligent boxers. We strive for the best, especially when it comes to health! To inquire rumorsboxers yahoo. Thank you for visiting and God bless! Some of our girls are our 3rd and 4th generation! We continue these outstanding bloodlines because of their good health, temperament and conformation! We will not keep nor breed any boxer in our breeding program. We strive for having the best quality! Way to go Abby!! Abby is the lighter brindle. Hello Everyone,I wanted to share this email with you from one of my clients. Hi Corie, I am pleased to tell you Mr. She was tested separately with Steve and I handling her. The tester was impressed with her not only as a Boxer specimen but for her calm, friendly, and tolerant temperament. Abby is the first Boxer she has certified as a Pet Therapy Dog. Passing this test means the world to me! Abby can work with me bringing joy and comfort to children with Intellectual disabilities complicated by medical issues. I give thanks to Dr. Karen Gerlick owner of Doc? I never under estimate what you do! Sir Samson will now start on the road to Pet Therapy Dog. He is a shoe in LOL. Samson is good at obedience but lacks some grace for agility. He is gaining his grace and speed now that he has slowed down in growing. Thank you so much for allowing us to own not one but two of your Boxers! Hope all is well with you and your family. The pictures of your new home are great. When the day comes when we are looking for another Boxer pup to add to our home we will be calling you. After all Boxers are like chips you can? My youngest son will be looking for a puppy sometime late summer or fall and he wants a Boxer. I wonder why he picked the breed? We enjoy seeing all of your new pups and truly appreciate your dedication as a breeder. Please ADD 3. Thank you, we appreciate your understanding! Welcome Testimonials "Can't be happier with our Rosie who we picked up November .Great temperment, easy to train, and the friendliest fun loving girl ever. We are already thinking of another o.These Boxers are amazing. Top of the line Their temperament, their disposition, their health.I have 3 amazing boxer babies from t.Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in New York? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in New York? There are a lot of factors to take into account when you are looking for Boxer puppies for sale New York. Breeders will price their Boxers differently based on factors like gender, color, size, eye color, and more. Will I only find local Boxer pups here? No, you will find Boxers from all over the country. Our network of breeders and businesses is located all over the country, including New York Boxer breeders and those in other states. They are experienced at transporting pups safely and securely, so wherever you find your perfect pup, you can go and meet them at your nearest major airport. Do you screen and vet the breeders in the network? We are very strict when it comes to adding Boxer breeders New York to our network, and only the best are approved. We have a strict set of standards that must be met. We take ethics, cleanliness, legal compliance, and more into account, so you can search for Boxer puppies for sale in New York with complete peace of mind. You can search online for Boxer puppies New York, but be aware that what you are likely to find are the Boxer New York breeders that are just best at marketing. There is absolutely no guarantee they are the best. Puppy mills are sometimes chosen by people looking for the cheapest Boxer puppies in New York they can find. But puppy mills are best avoided. They are like factories for dogs where proper breeding practices are often not followed. And dogs who are not bred properly can be more prone to developing harmful behavioral problems and health issues. Are Boxer puppies available right now? Do you have something very specific in mind for your puppy when you begin searching for a Boxer for sale New York? Then search our network today to find exactly what you want. We have a huge number of businesses and breeders in our network, and they have lots of Boxer puppies to choose from, making it easier than ever to find your perfect puppy. Where exactly do Boxer dogs come from? Boxers were bred as guard dogs in the s from a mix of dogs including the Bulldog and the German Bullenbeisser. They quickly became popular for their mix of desirable characteristics including strength, loyalty, intelligence, and playfulness. What are Boxers like? Boxers are famously clownish in their behavior, and they just love goofing around. They are also very intelligent and incredibly loyal. If you find a New York Boxer for sale, they make great guard dogs and will take their job of looking after you and your family very seriously. How big are Boxers normally? Boxers are characterized as medium to large dogs. However, as with all dog breeds, some will be larger than others. On average, fully grown Boxers usually weigh between about 60 and 70 pounds. If I live in an apartment, can I still get a Boxer? As Boxers are dogs with a lot of energy, you may be wondering whether they are suitable for apartment living. The answer is yes! But just keep in mind when you look for Boxers for sale New York that they will need a lot of exercise. Daily exercise is essential, so make sure you take them out for a long walk or two.

How to buy a French Bulldog puppy on a low budget French Bulldog puppies are one of the most expensive dog breeds to bring home. So how can you get your first French Bulldog puppy on a low budget? There is no such thing as a cheap Frenchie or a low budget French Bulldog due to their breeding per birth price tag. Nonetheless, there are several creative ways you can get a Frenchie puppy with little to no money down and we took the time to explore options and share this valuable info with you. A very fine show quality French Bulldog can cost that much. The high price tag reflects the expense per Frenchie puppy birth of artificial insemination, c-sections, constant care when they are born and multiple health and genetic exams. Why are French Bulldogs more expensive than any other dog breed? Most Frenchies can't have live babies the normal way. Many breeders would agree good breeding practices can greatly reduce the risks of genetic disorders that can lead to hearing loss, hip problems, and respiratory illness. Buying a well bred French Bulldog is never cheap and can help avoid a lifetime of vet bills and care. Creative ways you can get a Frenchie puppy or dog with little to no money down: Easypay Finance: Need help buying your Frenchie puppy? Easypay Finance can help. Good credit to no credit applicants accepted. Just as the name suggests Easypay is a streamline straight forward application that allows you to be approved instantly online without pay stubs or bank statements. If your loan is paid back within 90 days you can get a full interest rebate back. Requirements: Have a cell phone and email address. Have a checking account for at least 3 months. Puppy Spot Financing Puppy Spot Financing offers a convenient payment plan through Community Finance to help families buy their dream puppy. Breeders invest time, effort and resources into breeding and often this results in a hefty price for the Frenchie puppy. With a financing option, you don't have to compromise on a quality French Bulldog puppy. All you have to do is fill a form and a Puppy Concierge will contact you within one hour of receiving pre approval to help you reserve your dream Frenchie puppy. Requirements: Employed for the last 12 months at the same job. Pet Loans dot com can help finance your pet purchase price or veterinary care and even your pet supplies. Pet Loans dot com specializes in exotic pet purchases. French Bulldog Breeder financing: Certain Breeders accept financing through programs that are set up to protect them and help the buyer with a flexible payment plan. Ask your chosen breeder if they are able to accept breeder financing through one of the above programs. My Pet Funding allows breeders and pet stores offer the potential buyer the flexibility to spread their purchase cost over time. Rescue a French Bulldog. Take the Quiz As the puppies get bigger and stronger, they need to be regularly checked by a vet to make sure they are developing well and to administer the necessary shots, de-wormers, anti-parasite treatment and microchipping. Health screenings like echocardiograms also need to be performed to ensure the pups are as healthy as possible when they join their new owners. Needless to say, these examinations also come at a considerable cost. Popularity of Frenchies The second reason that explains the high prices of Frenchies is the increasing demand for them. People simply love them for their unique personality and looks, but such popularity has its downsides as well. A high demand not only means higher prices, but it also attracts people with false intentions who will take any opportunity to get rich. More about that in the next section! Now that you know why Frenchies are so expensive, you probably wonder why you can still see some considerably cheaper offers on the internet, starting from a couple of hundred dollars up to couple of thousands. They know all the tricks to look real: they use photos and videos of puppies from other breeders and they write fake reviews about themselves. Ultimate Guide First name Email Unfortunately, we hear stories from adopters about having been scammed on a regular basis. What makes us even sadder is that some of these scammers are using our brand, name and photos to rip people off! You may think that could never happen to you, but one can never be too careful. Part of our mission is to fight against scammers and educate adopters about how they can recognize false intentions, so please read our article on how to avoid French Bulldog scams. Puppy farms If you think that scammers are horrible, wait until we tell you about puppy farms or puppy mills run by unethical breeders, also known as backyard breeders. They are the ones who saw the increasing demand for French Bulldogs as an opportunity to make money by breeding and selling these pups merely for the profit. For them, profit always comes first. They keep the poor babies in tiny places where they are not even able to learn how to run! In fact, unethical Frenchie breeders are the reasons why the breed gained a reputation for being unhealthy. A breeder like that is extremely selective about the breeding parents; they know the bloodlines for generations and exclude any Frenchie that shows any possibility of carrying a health issue. They always give you a Health Guarantee with their puppies and take responsibility if something goes wrong. An unethical breeder will do none of these things! So, now you see that you might save money at first by choosing a cheap French Bulldog, but later on you will leave a fortune at the vet, not to mention the stress both you and the puppy will go through! Always buy from a reputable breeder! In the previous sections, we tried to present all the dangers that you might face when adopting cheap French Bulldogs. Always ask yourself and the breeder these before reserving a Frenchie puppy! How does the breeder keep the puppies? Ask them about how and where the pups spend their days. How do they talk about the pups? If a breeder talks about their Frenchies like products, they most probably treat them and think of them as products! Are they ready to show you the pup via video call? This is a crucial question. You should always be able to see a Frenchie on a video call before reserving them. Breeding Frenchies requires special methods and practices from breeders, like artificial insemination and C-section. The steep rise of their popularity also made French Bulldog prices to increase in recent years. What is the problem with ads of surprisingly cheap Frenchies? Always be suspicious of scammers and unethical breeders. How to avoid online scams and puppy farms? You can avoid online scams and puppy farms by doing a thorough research. Always ask plenty of questions and expect satisfying answers only! The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. The breed actually originated in and around Nottingham, England, which was the center of lace making. This small bulldog was a companion to the lace makers and ratter-in-chief. As the Industrial Revolution took hold in England, cottage industries such as lace making were threatened by mechanization, and many lace makers relocated to France. Toulouse-Lautrec even put a Frenchie in several of his paintings. French Bulldogs are surprisingly good watchdogs. City dwellers love Frenchies. Besides snoring, they make all sorts of snorts, grunts, yips, and other odd noises. If only Rosetta Stone taught Frenchie-language! French Bulldogs can be very stubborn and hard-headed. However, even after they learn a trick or behavior, they may do their own interpretation of it. They may circle the coffee table or jump on and off the furniture, and it will always be exuberant. French Bulldogs have a huge celebrity following just like Toy Poodles for sale. French Bulldogs are sensitive just like Dachshunds for sale. With a mischievous sense of humor, Frenchies are enormously entertain .Of course, children need to be taught how to play with a dog, regardless of breed. Plan on buying lots of toys; a Frenchie is a toy terminator, and enjoys ripping out stuffing and squeakers. Be careful what toys you choose for him and avoid ones that could be choking hazards. Their personalities are as large as their big bat ears. Adaptable, loving, smart, and mischievous, the French Bulldog is pretty much irresistible! We were reluctant to put a deposit because we almost got scammed before and the sell was so trustworthy he held our puppy for us. And when we were ready, he shipped the puppy over as he promised. Thank you guys for everything and making our family complete Ann Belcher Here is a picture of our Heavenly Deja, the day she was delivered to our home from Lovely home French Bulldogs by Thomas. He is cute as a button and has an amazing personality. This puppy is super happy and is just looking for a family to call his own. He is super social and enjoys playing with the children he is being raised with. This baby is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. Call today! When activities like this were outlawed in England in , the English Bulldog was bred down in size, resulting in the Toy Bulldog. During the Industrial Revolution, these Toy Bulldogs were brought to France by English lace workers, and the French immediately took a liking to the little dog. So, they began to import more and more of the breed. Over time, the Toy Bulldog became a breed of its own, and was eventually named the French Bulldog. These puppies are gentle, loving and affectionate. They are a good family dog and do well with children. The breed is also intelligent, docile and relatively easy to train. While puppies may be very energetic, adult Frenchies are relatively calm and have moderate exercise needs. That makes them an excellent choice for apartments and for owners who are unable to provide vigorous exercise. The dog bonds with owners and can get depressed if left alone for long periods. Bored or lonely pups can also chew or become destructive. Rated 0 out of 5 What is the the Temperament French bulldogs for sale French Bulldog dog breed is a clever, loving canine who needs to contribute lots of energy with his kinfolk just like the maltese. French Bulldog puppies are also very playful and affectionate in their nature. They simply like being around people. In terms of caring, Frenchies for sale are simple to care for — all they require is a healthy diet along with regular exercise, and a family that will lavish them with love and affection. Join our Facebook platform to engage with other French Bulldog lovers and breeders, share ideas and adopt a puppy for a cheap fee. Click here to visit the group. This is Because they are Brachycephalic canines smushed-face , French Bulldog puppies are prone to heat and susceptible to many health problems. Bulldogs are bulldogs. French Bulldog Puppies are characteristically stubborn, which can hinder the process of training. While not as large as other breeds French Bulldog puppy breed are stout compact and strong. They require exercise as well to maintain their shape. They are also available in a range in coat colors and designs. The selection is so wide of fantastic French Bulldogs for sale that you might need assistance in locating the perfect French Bulldog puppy for your family. The best method to locate the ideal French Bulldog puppy for sale is to talk to an GlamorousFrenchbulldog consultant now by opening a conversation through our live chat below. Look no further! Browse our website and embark on the exciting journey of finding your perfect furry friend. Our platform connects you with a wide range of affordable French bulldog puppies, each one waiting to become your loyal and loving companion. With our dedication to affordable prices and reputable breeders, you can find the perfect Frenchie for your budget and create a lifetime of memories together. Unveiling the History of French Bulldog Puppies The history of French bulldog puppies is a captivating tale that dates back to the s. Originally bred in England as companion dogs, these adorable canines quickly gained popularity across Europe. French bulldogs eventually made their way to the United States, captivating the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. At Cheappuppiesforsale. Understanding the Temperament and Health of French Bulldogs Frenchies are known for their unique temperament and distinctive personalities. These affectionate and sociable dogs make fantastic companions for individuals and families alike. They are known to be friendly, playful, and adaptable, making them a great fit for various lifestyles. How much do frenchies cost About Daisy Hi there! My name is Daisy. I have just met you, and I love you. My current family has raised me to be the most amazing, little puppy you will ever meet. I love to play, take naps, and give kisses. I am a great puppy and will come home to you up to date on my vaccinations and vet checks. I am in search for stuffed animals and toys; will you help me find them? I love to play with everyone. Will you be my new family? Sex: Female.

Long or medium, water resistant Coat Colors Bi-colored, range from black, cream, sable, black, and amber. Above all, know that these dogs are by no means small! In fact, they can grow to be quite large. This mix will grow to be somewhere in between how big its parents are. Male and female German Shepherds have a better big difference in height and weight. While males grow up to 24 and 26 inches cm , females get to be about 22 and 24 inches cm. As far as weight, males can be 65 to 90 pounds kg heavy while females are only between 50 to 70 pounds kg. The Golden Retriever looks a bit different. Again, there is a difference between the sexes. Females can grow as tall as .Males are inches 58 — 61 cm tall and pounds 29 — 34 kg heavy. But what does this mean for your Golden Shepherd? As mentioned above these dogs grow to 20 to 26 inches cm tall and 60 to 85 pounds 27 — 39 kg heavy. It really is just a guessing game with this breed. Hands down, they the best out of the best when it comes to guarding. Golden Retrievers are on the opposite end of the spectrum. They are very easy going, love all strangers, and are loyal to any family members. These dogs are social and beloved because of their awesome people pleasing skills. The Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix could inherit any combination of these behaviors from their parents, just as the same as their appearance. Their cleverness makes training easy. Kids and Golden Shepherds get along great. Your dog will always be up for some fetch or tug-of-war. Since there is hunting blood in their veins, watch them around smaller animals. Or you might witness lots of chasing. Be on the Lookout for These Possible Health Problems source As mentioned in the first paragraph Golden Shepherds have a life expectancy of around years if they receive enough love and high-quality care. However, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers have numerous health issues that can pass down to their puppies. Work closely with your breeder to prevent this from happening to you. German Shepherd Health Risks These dogs have been bred for multiple centuries. Because of this, they run into many medical problems. However, here are the top three problems that you might run into. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is a pretty common disease for most, but unfortunately, the German Shepherd is more prone to it than others. In fact, 1 out of 5 German Shepherds are expected to have this. This could be blamed on their energetic personality and big stature. Regardless, hip and elbow dysplasia is when the hip or elbow joint frequently pops out of its socket. As you can expect, this can cause the bones to wear down over time and, eventually, cause lameness. Perianal Fistula In other words, doggy diarrhea. It can be particularly alarming as it is often accompanied with bloody poop. It all starts when the skin around the anus begins to gets infected. Osteoarthritis Or, when the joints begin to wear down after normal living. Most specifically for German Shepherds, it happens around the spine. If you take good care of your German Shepherd, as well as schedule regular vet visits to be proactive in their health, you can expect 11 happy years together. The most alarming of these is cancer. Aside from this, you can expect .Here are several of their other health problems: Atopic Dermatitis : Otherwise known as allergies! Most commonly, dogs can be allergic to pollen, animal dander, plants, insects, food, and medication. This breed is known to have lots of issues with this. Aortic Stenosis : This is a medical condition that affects the blood flow in the chambers of the heart. Eventually, this can thicken the heart walls and lead to serious heart issues and even failure. Just like with German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Many do debates whether this is true. The unfortunate side of this is that examples have shown us over time they may change into something not as healthy. A great example of this is the English Bulldog. Yet, on the other hand, mixing combines the positive traits of two types while getting rid of the negative. It takes a lot of time and hard effort, but it can happen. Regardless of this debate, whether your pup is healthy comes down to the breeder you choose and the parents. But what should you specifically work on? Make sure to socialize your Golden Shepherd early in case they adopt the nervousness around strangers from their German Shepherds parents. Have visitors, other animals, and children over often. The more experience they have around strangers, the better. Plan for many daily walks. Because of this, a house with a yard is better. But an apartment can work if given enough daily exercise. Since German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are prone to having joint problems and your pup could inherit these issues, be cautious when exercising. As well, overeating can be a problem because extra weight increases the load on the joints. Make sure to use a brush that can reach both layers of the coat. Heading to the bathtub too often can damage their skin. As well, pay attention to how long their nails have grown and clip when necessary. Brush their teeth weekly to avoid the buildup of plaque and stinky kisses. And check their ears weekly for too much wax. This depends on where you buy from and the pedigree. The good news is that there are breeders everywhere! Also across Canada and the UK. As we mentioned before, do your research! Make sure anyone you purchase from is raising healthy and happy pups. Do a quick search in your area on sites like:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Golden Shepherd Highlights Golden Shepherds are mixed breed dogs. The main colors of Golden Shepherds are black, tan, red, cream, and blue. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. They shed quite a bit. The Golden Shepherd not only loves kids, they enjoy the commotion they bring with them. Though, as with all dogs, playtime with kids should always be supervised. Golden Shepherds have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour-long walk per day. Hiking and other adventurous activities are strongly recommended. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create Golden Shepherds as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though Golden Shepherds got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up Golden Shepherd rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Golden Retriever rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Golden Retriever parents, you can expect the Golden Shepherd to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Golden Shepherd Personality Golden Shepherds make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their Golden Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Golden Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. Golden Shepherds like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reinforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Golden Shepherds are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. Golden Shepherd Feeding An ideal Golden Shepherd diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. As with all dogs, the Golden Shepherd dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Golden Shepherd diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs—including weight, energy, and health—to make a specific recommendation. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors with their family. Like all dogs, however, Golden Shepherds need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever. Golden Shepherd Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Golden Shepherds because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Golden Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. This hybrid breed, sometimes referred to as a golden German shepherd, is utterly adorable, incredibly smart, very loyal to his family members , and, above all else, supremely lovable. Golden shepherds make great pets for families that have plenty of time and energy to dedicate to daily exercise and affection. Appearance Golden shepherds, like other hybrid breeds, get their traits from both parent breeds. Half German shepherd, half golden retriever, they may closely resemble one parent or the other, or they may look like some combination of the two—it all depends. Golden retrievers typically stand 21—25 inches tall and weigh 55—75 pounds. As this breed's name suggests, their fur color falls somewhere along the yellow spectrum—from creamy white to dark golden. They have feathery tails that are almost always wagging happily. German shepherds tend to be about the same size as golden retrievers, weighing between 50—90 pounds and standing 22—26 inches tall. These regal-looking canines are typically black and tan but they can also have black, black with red, sable, or white fur, too. Similarly, golden shepherds may have the floppy, folded-over ears of a golden retriever or the alert, upright ears of a German shepherd. No matter which parent your golden shepherd puppy looks like, he's basically guaranteed to be cute. A full-grown golden shepherd will likely be a medium- to large-sized dog , so consider how much space you have before bringing one home. Temperament For lovers of German shepherds and golden retrievers, golden shepherd dogs are the perfect happy medium. These good-natured pups get the brains of a German shepherd, the happy-go-lucky attitude of a golden retriever, and the family-friendliness of both parent breeds. Golden retrievers are cheerful, fun-loving dogs with delightful personalities—there's a reason they're so popular, particularly among families with kids. They love to romp and play, but they're equally as happy snuggling up on the couch for movie night. Golden retrievers absolutely adore getting attention from their human owners—pets, scratches, praise, and cuddles are their favorite—so they're all-around top-notch companions who would gladly follow you anywhere. They are friendly with new people and almost always steal the spotlight at parties. They love going for walks and learning new cues and tricks , so some daily blend of physical and mental stimulation is important for keeping a German shepherd happy. They love their human family members deeply and are often referred to as "Velcro dogs" because they like to be in the same room with their people at all times. They'll readily alert you to a delivery at the door, too. As a German shepherd and golden retriever mix, golden shepherds will likely have varying personalities that incorporate attributes from their parents, according to Nicole Ellis , CPDT-KA, pet lifestyle expert with Rover. This makes them ideal for families that spend a lot of time at home or young professionals with remote jobs. Puzzle toys and feeders can help keep your golden shepherd engaged, too. Care Grooming a golden shepherd is relatively low-maintenance, though be forewarned: Your dog will likely shed a fair amount golden retrievers and German shepherds both shed heavily in the spring and fall and moderately year-round. To keep your golden shepherd looking his most handsome, brush his coat at least once a week and bathe him with shampoo formulated specially for dogs as necessary. Regular brushing can also help keep the shedding in check, to a degree, but you may also want to invest in a good vacuum cleaner , too. Courtesy of bella. Also, brush your golden shepherd's teeth nightly or at least as often as you can manage! Set a reminder to clean your golden shepherd's ears regularly , too. Though your golden shepherd may naturally be a very social dog, thanks to his golden retriever lineage, it's still important to socialize him from a young age. This way, he'll be comfortable around new sights, smells, sounds, people, and other dogs. Puppy kindergarten training classes can help your golden shepherd puppy learn new cues while also interacting with other pooches of all shapes and sizes as well as their owners. As you search for a training facility or begin to prepare your own training plans , keep in mind that golden shepherds respond best to positive reinforcement that involves a reward, such as high-value treats , petting, and effusive praise, Ellis says. Health A golden shepherd's health and expected lifespan depend greatly on the health of his two parents. German shepherds, which typically live 7—10 years, can be susceptible to certain genetic diseases and conditions, including elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia , epilepsy , bleeding disorders, eye conditions , degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma , and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Golden retrievers tend to live slightly longer with average lifespans between 10—12 years. Like German shepherds, golden retrievers may also experience elbow and hip dysplasia and eye conditions including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Golden retrievers are also susceptible to allergies and hypothyroidism. The good news is that hybrid breeds tend to have fewer medical problems than purebred dogs, she says, though you should still be aware of these common concerns. History As with other hybrid breeds, the exact history of the golden shepherd is unknown. We do know that golden retrievers were developed in the mid-to-late s in the Scottish Highlands by Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord of Tweedmouth, who wanted to develop a skilled hunting dog who could tackle the region's rugged terrain. German shepherds hail from Germany, where they were developed in the late s by a German cavalry officer named Capt. Max von Stephanitz. These intuitive dogs learn quickly, which is why they're such a popular choice for police work, search and rescue missions, and other important jobs. Today, golden shepherds are primarily companion animals and pets. There aren't many golden shepherd breeders in the U. But check with local animal shelters and rescue groups regularly, as they may have a mixed-breed dog with some German shepherd and golden retriever in his DNA or dogs with similar characteristics to these two pups! Fun Facts If you're training for a marathon or planning a big summit, a golden shepherd will gladly accompany you on your training runs and hikes. These pups are very sporty and have a lot of endurance not to mention that they'd get to spend time with you, their favorite person! Large breeds like golden retrievers and Germans shepherds can become overweight if left to their own devices. Keep an eye on your dog's weight and talk with a veterinarian about the best way to keep him fit and healthy. Golden shepherds are good contenders for dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, and more. They love a good session of fetch in the backyard, too. Was this page helpful? This combines the intelligent and hardworking traits of the German Shepherd with the loyal and loving traits of the Golden Retriever to create a playful and affectionate dog that makes an excellent family dog. This lovable hybrid breed is becoming more and more popular in the United States for many reasons. Read on below to find out more about this interesting breed and whether they might be the right dog for you. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that their mixed breed offspring is also a very popular dog! However, the breed has been registered by the International Designer Canine Registry since and is also registered with the Designer Breed Registry. They soon became popular in the United States in the early s. The German Shepherd had a controversial past. These dogs were used in World War One and were seen as German dogs which is why they were shunned. However, these dogs regained popularity with the public in the s and have been a favorite with the police and military for decades, due to their hardworking and loyal nature. The Golden Shepherd was first bred in .The hope when breeding this dog was to create a puppy with the alertness, courage and quickness of the German Shepherd while getting the retrieving ability and gentle nature of a Golden Retriever. Characteristics Of The Golden Shepherd Due to the fact that these dogs are not a purebred breed, it can be a little difficult to predict their characteristics. This is especially true for the Golden Shepherds that are first generation. However, we can make predictions based on past Golden Shepherd litters. Always buy from a reputable breeder and never from puppy mills. Appearance A Golden Shepherd can weigh anywhere between 35 and 55 lbs and stand between 22 and 24 inches tall. Males are normally bigger than females and it will, of course, depend on which parent your Golden Shepherd pup takes after more. These dogs are medium to large size and normally have a German Shepherd body and a Golden Retriever head. However, German Shepherd puppies often have floppy ears when they are born, eventually becoming erect as they grow, so there is a chance your puppy will have these ears too. However, German Shepherds can also have short coats, so there is a chance your Golden Shepherd will inherit this coat too. Whichever coat they inherit, it will be a double coat which, unfortunately, means lots of shedding! They will have two major blowouts every year but, to be realistic, your Golden Shepherd will never stop shedding. It can be golden just like their Golden Retriever parent, or they can take after their German Shepherd parent and have a mixed color coat. This could be black, cream, yellow, tan, white or blue. Again, take a look at the parent breeds of your Golden Shepherd to determine what color coat your puppy might inherit. Temperament The Golden Shepherd is known for being a gentle, kind and loving dog that makes an excellent companion. Energetic and full of life, these pups love to be around people and love to play. They do not like to be left alone and will want to be by your side at all times, meaning they can sometimes exhibit signs of separation anxiety. Early socialization can help to fix this. Extremely intelligent, it is no wonder that these pups need to be kept entertained and thrive when given a job to do. While they are sociable dogs who love people and other animals, they can often inherit a protective nature from their Shepherd parent that can result in these dogs being an excellent watchdog or guard dog when trained. The Golden Shepherd loves to please their owners, making them very easy to train. They also love to play with children and other animals, so you do not need to worry about any kind of aggression and socialization will be minimal. Lifespan The average life expectancy of a Golden Shepherd is anywhere between 10 to 14 years. They are generally a healthy breed and can live a long and happy life! Known Health Issues While the Golden Shepherd is a healthy breed for the most part they can, as with all dogs, be prone to some health problems. These are usually health issues that have been passed down to them from their parent breeds. One of the biggest health concerns for the Golden Shepherd is bloat. They are more susceptible to this because they are a large breed of dog. Bloat is where the stomach twists and fills with gas. It can be fatal. Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals can help to reduce the risk of bloat. Other issues the Golden Shepherd may be prone to are hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This is common in large dog breeds and is when the elbows and hips weaken and become arthritic. It can be the result of quick growing. Degenerative Myelopathy is another problem that both parent breeds can develop. It can result in hind leg paralysis. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we have explored the characteristics and the temperament of the Golden Shepherd, it is time to look at what daily life with one of these dogs is like. Although their traits can be a mixture of both parents, looking after these dogs is pretty straightforward. This type of dog needs roughly three to four cups of dog food a day and it should ideally be a dog food tailored to large breeds. You should always check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount of a certain food you should be feeding your pup based on their weight. Always try to feed your Golden Shepherd high-quality dog food that meets all their nutritional needs. This breed can be known to be a little greedy, so try not to feed them too many treats, either. Remember, the Golden Shepherd breed is prone to bloat, so split up their meals. Two to three meals a day will greatly reduce the risk of bloat in comparison to one large meal. The Life Protection formula is suitable for adult dogs that need a little extra help. It comes in a pound bag to cover multiple feedings and uses a chicken and brown rice recipe. Thanks to the real chicken used in the formula, your dog gets the protein that it needs to build and maintain healthy muscles. The formula also uses fruits and garden vegetables along with whole grains. Unlike other dog food that uses lots of grains and fillers with a small amount of protein, Blue Buffalo gives your dog a nice dose of protein with just the right amount of grains and no fillers. This food is also suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs and other problems as it is free from soy and wheat along with preservatives and corn. Formulated for large breeds, this food helps to support hip and joint health in bigger dogs. With U. The large kibble size of this food not only provides a crunchy texture, but it also helps to support dental health in large breeds by scrubbing the teeth as they chew. Even better, there are also natural prebiotics which help support healthy digestion and there are no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Exercise This German Shepherd Mix has high exercise needs and is best suited to an active family home. They need around 60 minutes of exercise a day, so are therefore excellent as a hiking or running buddy! These pups also need lots of mental stimulation as they are a very intelligent breed. If they are not kept entertained then they will likely become bored and begin to exhibit destructive behaviors. One way to ensure your dog stays entertained is to give them a job. This can be as simple as teaching them a dog sport, such as agility or flyball. Family Compatibility With both parent breeds, the German Shepherd and the Golden Retriever, two of the most popular dogs in the United States, it comes as no surprise that the Golden Shepherd is a good family dog. The breed is very affectionate and will just want to play with you and be by your side. They can be known to exhibit signs of separation anxiety when left alone for too long, so you will need to makes sure that you have the time to spend with this dog before buying. Otherwise, they can begin to exhibit destructive behaviors. Extremely intelligent, these dogs are easy to train, meaning even the smallest of children can help out! The Golden Shepherd is not fussy about where they live, either. This dog will thrive in an active family where they can be taken on walks and hikes but, as long as you exercise them enough and keep them entertained, they can happily live in a small apartment and do not need a lot of space. All they need is lots of love and attention! Training The Golden Shepherd is a highly intelligent dog who will do anything to please their owner. This means that they are very easy to train, which also makes them a perfect first dog or great for those who have no experience in training a large dog. You should always use positive reinforcement when training the Golden Shepherd. This includes reward based training — both verbal praise and treats. You should never get angry or frustrated with your Golden Shepherd, because they will not understand and will not want to learn. Socializing Fortunately, this Golden Retriever Mix is a very sociable dog and socialization is very easy. They love to have friends around them, in the form of both humans and other dogs and pets, so introducing them to other members of the household should not be an issue. However, because of their parent breeds working history, they can be known to chase squirrels and other small animals while out. Socializing your Golden Shepherd from a young age and introducing them to new sights, sounds, places, smells, people and animals can help to combat this. Grooming As we mentioned above, the Golden Shepherd does shed a lot of fur and so they are not the pet for those with allergies. Because of this, they also do require a lot of grooming. Although they will have two blowouts a year, they will also need regular brushing to minimize shedding. You should try to brush them at least two to three times a week. Also check their ears when you can for any signs of infection. The Golden Shepherd makes an excellent family dog. These pups love people and never like to be left alone, so they will do best in an active household where they can always be part of the action. They especially love children and other animals and are very good at understanding their needs. While the Golden Shepherd might be best suited to those who have experience with a large dog breed, their intelligence makes them a dream to train. They also just want to please their owners, meaning they can be a good first pet and will just want to love you. How much does a Golden Shepherd puppy cost? You should always buy from a reputable breeder who can give you health checks for both parent breeds. If this is too far out of your price range, check your local shelter. There are always dogs out there who need a loving forever home! Summary The Golden Shepherd is the result of breeding two of the most popular dogs in the United States and the result is a loving, affectionate and active family dog. These pups make the perfect companion for anyone, children and animals included, and their intelligence makes them a dream to train. Do you think a Golden Shepherd could be the pup for you? The Golden Shepherd tends to be a friendly, energetic, and affectionate dog that is loyal to their family and tends to be protective of them. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, and more. A Golden Shepherd tends to bring the all-around friendly personality of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and devotion of the German Shepherd into one dog. They love their families and tend to get along with everyone including children. These dogs are not necessarily suspicious of strangers, but they are alert and will tend to bark if they see something they feel you need to know about. Golden Shepherds are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they are high-energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as plenty of time is dedicated to giving them the daily exercise they need. They tend to do well in most climates. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because Golden Shepherds are devoted to their families and thrive on spending time with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health issues common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. As a larger, barrel-chested dog breed, the Golden Shepherd, like their parent breeds, is also at a higher risk for bloat. The Golden Shepherd is a highly trainable dog breed. They are intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a great idea because they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy while also strengthening your bond with them. The Golden Shepherd will have a thick double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as seasons change. A quick daily brushing, especially during seasonal shedding sessions, will help remove loose fur to make your dog more comfortable and also help keep more fur contained to a brush instead of everywhere else. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long or causing issues. Plus, if anything is starting to happen, you can get the vet before it gets more serious. Because many dog owners overlook this, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. The Golden Shepherd comes from two high-energy dogs, so they require a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are the minimum. But, a Golden Shepherd will likely be up for more activity if you are. A trip to the dog park for some off-leash time, playing frisbee or chasing a ball, hiking, swimming, running, and more can all help this dog expend some extra energy. You want to keep their activity low-impact as they are still growing, but once they finish growing, try different activities to see what you both love doing together. You could even try training them for dog sports! A fully-grown Golden Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Shepherd generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Golden Shepherd puppies available, but we can alert you when new Golden Shepherd puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers and German shepherds are two of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Both medium-to-large dogs that are highly intelligent, easy to please, and great with families, it was only a matter of time before someone created the golden shepherd by mixing these two breeds. But what can you expect if you decide to adopt one of these amazing dogs into your family? Read on as I take you through exactly what you can expect from a golden retriever-German shepherd mix, including their size, appearance, temperament, and the care they need to thrive. Is the golden shepherd the right dog for you? Learn more below! Essential Statistics Breed: Mix of golden retriever and German shepherd Height: 21 — 26 inches Coat Type: Medium-long high shedding coat Colors: Black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, liver Lifespan: 7 — 12 year lifespan Temperament: Highly intelligent, easy to train, playful, friendly, does well with families Exercise: High energy and exercise needs History Of The Breed Golden retrievers were first bred in the United Kingdom to retrieve shot waterfowl. Their soft mouths allow them to retrieve ducks and other game without damaging them. As a highly intelligent breed that is eager to please and with a naturally good nature and understanding of how to act around children, goldens have been popular working dogs since the s, and you will often see them working in search and rescue and disability assistance. German shepherds , also known as Alsatians, were first bred in Germany just before the start of the 20th century as herding dogs. When natural sheep predators began to die out in Germany at the start of the 20th century, German shepherds were taught to do other kinds of work. While German shepherds are not an aggressive breed, they developed a bad reputation in the 20th century when the German Nazi army started using them as working dogs. The breed was also adopted by gangsters and bootleggers in the United States. Fortunately, today, their reputation is largely recuperated, and they are often seen working with police and in roles such as search and rescue. Golden shepherds were first bred around .The intention with this mixed breed was to create a dog with the courage, quickness, and alertness of the German shepherd but also with the good nature of the golden retriever, which is also intelligent, highly trainable, and easy to please. The results are excellent working dogs and family pets. Golden retrievers are usually 21 to 25 inches tall and will usually be the mother in a first generation golden shepherd coupling. They weigh 55 to 75 pounds. German shepherds are slightly larger, measuring 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing 50 to 90 pounds. As you would expect, their golden shepherd offspring measure 21 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds on average. Both parent dog breeds have medium-to-long coats that are known to be high-shedding, so you can expect the same from a golden shepherd. Being a mixed breed, they can come in an extensive range of colors, including black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, and liver, and they will often be bicolor. The color of their coat tends to be highly unpredictable in the first generation. Because they are high-shedding, they do need regular grooming, which means brushing at least once a week to keep shedding under control. Still, there is no escaping all that dog hair, and you will definitely need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. The way their facial features will develop is less predictable, since they are still a new breed and breeders are still learning to control for desirable features. They can also either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the drooping ears of a golden retriever. Either way, they are sure to be a gorgeous pup! Golden Shepherd Temperament And Intelligence Golden retrievers are known for being playful and friendly dogs that love everyone they meet and therefore make terrible guard dogs. They are playful and loyal to the family with whom they have developed a bond. While they can be wary of strangers or anything that seems out of place, they are more likely to alert you with a bark than attack. You can expect a golden shepherd to be playful and friendly, but a little bit warier of strangers than your standard golden retriever. Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and also eager to please. German shepherds, in particular, are also independent thinkers and problem solvers. This means golden shepherds are easy to train, as they learn new commands quickly and enjoy the rewards that come with completing them, but they are also good at knowing what is required of them in new circumstances. Golden shepherds, like both of their parent breeds, are incredibly loyal and will want to be around their people all the time, whether that is out and about, or curled up on the couch at home. This can lead to frustration and destructive behavior. They are naturally protective of children, and despite being large breed dogs, they are very aware of their own size and strength and know how to play gently with children. However, it could be a struggle to have this breed with very young children, as they have lots of playful energy, and this can be overwhelming for smaller folks. Golden Shepherd Energy And Exercise Golden shepherds, like both their parent breeds, are high-energy dogs. Additionally, golden shepherds need at least an hour of fairly intense exercise each day. This means running around the dog park and sniffing everything, playing catch, and going for a swim rather than just a casual walk. They should be getting less exercise as puppies, despite their apparent energy, as too much exercise can undermine their proper development. While they are growing, they should have about five minutes of exercise per day per month of age. So at four months, they need 20 minutes of exercise each day, and at six months, they need half an hour. As adult dogs, they will love joining you on longer adventures, such as hikes and boat trips and will have no problem keeping up. Bear in mind that, while they are natural swimmers, if you go out on a boat, they should be wearing a flotation vest. As well as formal exercise, they need to be able to move around and play throughout the day, and a decent-sized backyard is the best thing for this. Golden Shepherd Health Concerns Of course, when you adopt a dog into your family, you will want to closely monitor and care for their health. This means ensuring they are vaccinated for all the most transmissible canine diseases, such as Parvo , protection against fleas and ticks , and proper dental care, which ideally means daily brushing. But certain dog breeds are also more susceptible to certain health conditions than others. With mixed breeds, they could be less susceptible to some of the most common ailments of their parent breeds, or they could be more susceptible to certain conditions. The best thing to do is inform yourself about the common health issues for both parent breeds and monitor your puppy for all of them. This means for golden shepherds, you will want to be on the lookout for: Elbow and hip dysplasia, common in both parent breeds Eye conditions, common in both parent breeds Bloating gastric dilation volvulus , common in both parent breeds Epilepsy, common in German shepherds Allergies, common in golden retrievers Hypothyroidism, common in golden retrievers Degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma, common in German shepherds Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, common in German shepherds Of course, just because some dog breeds are more susceptible to these conditions does not mean they will get any of them, and your golden shepherd could pass their entire 7-toyear lifespan without being affected by any of these. But if you know the symptoms, you can catch any problems early and ensure a better quality of life for your dog. One other health concern with both the parent breeds of golden shepherds is obesity. They love their food, and we love to reward them with delicious treats. Remember, every treat you give them also contains calories! Also, never feed them off your own plate. They already tend to think they are human, and this can just lead to begging at the table and food theft! Plus, a lot of the foods humans eat are toxic to dogs. This not only includes chocolate and fake sugar, but also common kitchen staples such as onion and garlic. Invest in good quality food for your dog and avoid giving them table scraps. No doubt having read my guide you are interested in bringing a fantastic golden shepherd into your family. These are the questions you should ask yourself to determine whether you are a good fit for this unique breed. Do you have an active lifestyle? Your dog is going to need lots of exercise and is happiest when they can accompany their humans in energetic activities. Are you out of the house a lot? Golden shepherds love company and need to be around their people most of the time. They need a home where there is usually someone about or where they can accompany someone to work. Do you have much space? Golden shepherds thrive when they have space to use their energy, and they are fairly big, so they can make a small apartment feel claustrophobic. Are you willing to accept dog hair as a part of life? Are you a first-time owner? Golden shepherds are easy to train and control, so they are actually great choices for first-time owners. Do you have kids or other pets? Golden shepherds are great around kids and other pets if they are properly socialized. But these big dogs with lots of energy could be challenging if you have very small children. Let these questions guide you as to whether a golden shepherd is the right dog for you. In short, if you are low on space, time, or energy, a different breed might be a better match. If you find a breeder selling for less than this, be wary, as you may be dealing with a puppy mill. You may also find golden shepherds in your local shelter , because despite being amazing and pliable dogs, their energy and attention and exercise needs often prove too much for some owners. What do you think of the golden shepherd? Does it mix the best aspects of the German shepherd and golden retriever? Is this the kind of dog you would like to adopt? Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Breed size. Before getting into each factor, here are some Pug sleep FAQs for you to get to know. Pugs Sleeping Schedule Dogs are flexible sleepers. Unlike us, who rest best when we stick to a regular schedule, dogs are more flexible with their sleep. Mail through the letterbox. If they smell food, etc. Basically, they jump to attention in a heartbeat! Next time your Pug goes to sleep, pay attention to how: First, your dog will enter a slow wave of sleep in which their breathing rate slows, blood pressure drops and heart rate decreases. About 10 minutes in, your pooch enters the REM phase of sleep. Then, you can see twitching of the facial muscles and, as the name suggests, rapid movement of the eyes. This might happen whether your dog is dreaming or not. If your pooch is dreaming, you will notice her quivering, making leg twitches, whimpering or even growling when sleeping. What Do Pugs Dream About? What Pugs dream about is generally related to the activities that they engaged in during that day. Matt Wilson, a neuroscientist who studies memory and learning at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, conducted a study in dogs to find out what they dream about. They create new scenes built from old content that can be used to convey, emphasize, highlight or otherwise capture some kind of a meaningful point. Another interesting fact is that small dogs dream more than larger dogs. The dog breed may also play a part in dreaming. For example, Labrador Retrievers retrievers by nature and breeding are more likely to dream about chasing a ball than a Pug would bred as a company dog. Dreaming also seems to occur more frequently in puppies, who do sleep more than adult dogs. This could also be because they are processing huge quantities of newly acquired experiences. You have probably noticed your pooch quiver, make leg twitches, or even rapid movement of the eyes when sleeping. Which brings us to the next point… Pugs snore. Pugs Snoring Largely due to their short snouts, as a brachycephalic breed, Pugs frequently snore and snort during their sleep. Snoring can get even louder if your Pug sleeps on her back — yeah, you read it right! Some Pugs sleep on their backs, with their tongues out! Just look at the image below. This means that your dog will stop breathing for 10 to 20 seconds, repeatedly throughout her sleep. While some dogs stay asleep, others will gasp and wake up. This can cause sleep deprivation to your Pug. So, if your Pug sounds like a tractor when she falls asleep, with some gasps in between, you might want to check with your vet to dismiss any health problems. Excess sleep can also be a sign of potential problems like stress and separation anxiety can manifest as extra daytime snoozing. If your pooch is ill or injured, she will sleep more than a healthy and fully mobile dog. But once she recovers, her sleep habits should go back to normal. I will cover this in 2 — Activity Level section below. So, how do I know if my Pug is sleeping too much? This knowledge will help you determine if your pooch is just tired or if her sleep has changed. While there can be a lot of variability in Pugs sleeping habits, the one thing to keep an eye out for is a dramatic change. Your pooch falls asleep suddenly narcolepsy. Some of these signs might not be alarming or obvious if your Pug has always been a bit on the lazy side. Pug puppies need 18 to 20 hours of sleep per day. Despite being a ball of energy when they are awake, pups need a lot of sleep to grow and recharge their batteries. Like human babies, your 8 weeks old Pug puppy will spend a lot of time sleeping when you get her home. But also like babies, very young puppies will not sleep through the night. This also has to do with their need to empty their bladder frequently. An adult Pug sleeps between 12 to 14 hours daily. Use the guide in my favourite dog beds for features on the different types of dog beds. Senior Pugs can sleep around 18 to 20 hours a day. They tend to have lower energy levels, and like puppies, seniors need to recharge their batteries more often after exercise. Your senior Pug is more likely to spend more time chilling and sleeping, especially if she has some health issues. Plus, age-related problems can come with a change in sleeping patterns. The main reason is they tend to have more energy and are doing things for a greater percentage of the day than inactive dogs are. Remember that how active or lazy your Pug is depends on you. Your dog relies on you to exercise. If your Pug is used to two walks a day because you gradually took her out of the house since she was a puppy, she will thrive thanks to the activity. Pugs need 30 minutes of exercise like walking , plus playtime like tug or retrieve games. They can be considered a less active breed compared to other brachycephalic small dogs like Boston Terriers. Learn more » The Pug has become one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their quirky appearance and friendly attitude. This tiny breed does have some unusual habits that set it apart from other breeds and while some, unfortunately, are caused by their brachycephalic facial shape, some are behavior-based attributes. Among the traits that some people accuse the Pug of having is that they are lazy dogs that sleep a lot. You may notice it more because of the heavy breathing and snoring that tends to emanate from that squashed face. If your Pug is sleeping up to 14 hours a day, it is normal, but if yours is sleeping more than this, you may need to investigate to determine the cause and look for ways to remedy the problem. About The Pug Note Though the Pug is a popular breed, they unfortunately suffer from a plethora of health issues as a result of generations of selective breeding and therefore unfortunately have a lower quality of life when compared to other dog breeds. Veterinarians around the world are urging pet owners to not adopt the breed as their genetic shortcomings cannot be overcome by proper care and management alone. If you wish to adopt a Pug, please be mindful that they will most likely need extensive medical assistance throughout their life, which may include necessary reconstructive surgery. The Pug is a toy breed of companion dog. The breed has been developed to accompany their owner and provide companionship and has never been a working dog. The breed is known to be affectionate with family, will bond with visitors and even strangers, and they will usually get along with other dogs and potentially even cats. Because this is several hours a day longer than most people sleep, it can seem like Pugs spends their entire life snoozing. Puppies can sleep as long as 20 hours a day while senior Pugs may sleep for 15 or so hours a day. Although you can take some steps to reduce this a little, you need to ensure that your dog is getting enough sleep to recharge and stay healthy. Aim for about 12 hours of sleep a day. Top 6 Causes Of Excessive Sleeping If you determine that your Pug is sleeping more than 14 hours a day, take a look at the possible causes. Such causes include: 1. Boredom Pugs like fun and they enjoy spending fun time with their owners. If your Pug gets bored, one of their few options is to go to sleep in the hope of waking up to something more exciting. Try to introduce more playtime, offer a greater range of more exciting toys, and look for ways to provide stimulation that will keep your pup entertained. Image Credit: Piqsels 2. You should provide up to an hour a day of decent exercise, including walks and playtime. Make sure you provide two walks a day, of between 20 and 30 minutes each, and supplement this with some time playing with toys or playing games like hide and seek. Stick to an appropriate diet and if your Pug is really overweight, consult a vet so that they can advise you on the best next steps to shed the pounds and achieve a healthy weight. Image Credit: Tanya Dol, Shutterstock 4. Poor Diet Diet is as important to dogs as it is to any animal. Pugs do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with the supervision and approval of a canine nutritionist or your veterinarian. Pugs like to follow their humans around and partake in some of the same activities. Determine how long you spend in front of the TV to see whether this could be the cause of your sedentary pup. Image Credit: Michelle Scott, Pixabay 6. Illness Some illnesses can cause lethargy and even fairly minor ailments can wipe a dog out, in the same way illness can leave us feeling jaded and in need of extra rest. Conclusion Pugs can be fun-loving, affectionate, and jaunty little pets that want to spend as much time as possible with us. While they do sleep for up to 14 hours a day and make a lot of noise while they are sleeping, they actually have similar sleeping habits to other breeds of dog. If yours is sleeping for longer than 14 hours a day, it may be worth investigating to determine the cause and changing habits to help achieve optimal sleeping habits. Pug Sleeping Habits Overview Just about any Pug owner will agree that this breed gets a bit of a bad rep in regard to sleep. The Pug is sometimes thought of as a lazy breed; a dog that takes over your favorite chair and sleeps his life away, snoring as if he doesn't have a care in the world. While it may be true that a Pug does tend to snore - and make a few other interesting noises - he does not sleep more than any other breed and he is not lazy at all. In fact, Pugs are super animated, very personable and eager canines that often are curious, emotional and expressive. They thrive on attention and tend to mimic their owner's mood and vibes. If you sleep a lot, your Pug is not going to pace around the room; he'll be right by your side. And if you're active, he'll want to be right there as well; in fact many Pugs need to have limitations set because they'll push themselves to far and can have overheating and breathing issues. One element that may make it seem as if a Pug sleeps a lot is that he is so obvious when he does it. Other dogs may retreat quietly away and an hour later, an owner may wonder 'where's my dog? In this section we are going to cover: How much Pug puppies should sleep Normal amounts of sleep for adults and seniors Reasons why a Pug may have trouble sleeping Things that may cause a Pug to sleep too much Common questions about Pug sleeping habits Emma, 20 months old, photo courtesy of Helen Gastaldo How Much Sleep is Normal for Pugs Newborns - Newborn Pug puppies - from 1 day old to 3 weeks - sleep just about all of the time, up to 22 hours per day. They will mainly only be awake to eat; after that's it's right back to bed, warm and safe next to the dam and littermates. The age of 3 weeks old is a huge turning point; at this time both hearing and vision are working well and with this comes a new found curiosity. A heightened interest in exploring his little world and for playing with siblings will cause the pup to stay awake a bit longer now. From 3 weeks to 8 weeks, a puppy will sleep anywhere from 20 to 21 hours per day. Puppies - Owners of new puppies often want to know how much Pug puppies sleep because they worry about the pup being overtired and perhaps sleeping too much and missing out on things. The first couple of months - age 2 months to 5 months - a Pug puppy will sleep from 18 to 20 hours per day. This includes both nighttime sleep and naps taken all throughout the day. This is a really funny stage, because often a Pug puppy will be so interested in his world that he struggles to stay awake. It's not uncommon for a Pug to zonk out in the middle of playing or even eating, resting his head on the rim of the bowl because he just couldn't make it to his bed. Each month that the Pug matures, he will sleep a bit less and stay awake for longer periods. By 6 months old, many Pugs are on the sleeping schedule of adults. Adults - Adult Pug dogs sleep roughly 14 per day. There are some reasons for sleeping less or more discussed ahead. This may seem like a lot - especially when compared to how much we get- however most of this will be done at night. When you subtract 8 or 9 hours of nighttime snoozing from the average of 14, this leaves 5 to 6 hours of on-and-off again naps. The amount of naps will depend on how much the Pug sleeps at night and most will shadow what their owners do. It's very common for this breed to start getting tuckered out when lights are dimmed and their humans are relaxing before bed. It's typical for a Pug to drift off about an hour before his human family; he'll try to hang on but will conk out as the house quiets down and everyone is relaxing. Then, most will pop right awake as soon as the alarm goes off of if they sense that their human has awoken. It's rare for a Pug to stay sleeping in the morning while everyone starts their day. Since canines - like us- need a good amount of deep REM sleep, if they do follow their owner's sleep schedule of 8 hours a night, this leaves a good 6 or so hours that will be napped away during the day. And if an owner is only sneaking in 6 or 7 hours with the Pug following suit, this makes for a lot more napping of up to 7 or 8 hours during the day. So, how much you actually see your Pug snoozing will depend a lot of your own schedule and whether or not you are home with your dog or are away at work or school. Seniors - As a dog ages, there are many changes… decreased metabolism, a slowing down that reduces activity, etc. These are gradual changes, so you may not notice that your Pug sleeps an extra 20 minutes or so; but as the years pass, this adds up to falling asleep an hour earlier than usual and it is then that it really becomes apparent. When a Pug Has Trouble Sleeping With puppies, it can take a while for puppies to accept their schedule; many may seem downright nocturnal, making you wonder if somehow an owl was crossed in the Pug's bloodline. It takes a couple of months for a pup to understand the cues of a day winding down and feeling isolated can cause a puppy to stay awake whining or barking at night. For those of any age, this breed will show appreciation for many of the care elements you provide and often won't be shy at all to announce when things are not right. Here are the top reasons why a Pug may not be sleeping as good as usual: 1: Quality of the bed - Choosing the right bed for your Pug is important for this breed that tends to have hips and back issues. Keep in mind that beds do not last forever; after 4 years or so, cushions can lose buoyancy and won't be as supportive as they once were. Also, a puppy may be outgrowing his smaller bed and seniors may a thicker mattress to better support aching joints. This has a base of 2-inch medical-grade memory foam, water-proof inner and outer fabric, and a cover that is resistant to mold and dust mites and washable. Pugs need a good place to rest but still like to be close to the 'action' so that - if they happen to prefer it, they can join in. While it is a good idea to give your Pug his own space - especially if you want him to get used to that area for when home alone - it should in a quiet corner of an familiar room that is used by the family such as the living room or den. Some owners may move a Pug's sleeping area further away if the dog snores loudly or is otherwise causing a disruption; however, a compromise should be made so that a Pug doesn't feel quarantined. Additionally, any chronic snoring noises should be evaluate by the vet for possible stenotic nares, elongated palate and other issues common to brachycephalic breeds. Drafts, which can cause interrupted sleep, are common near windows and doors, but can also be found hear exterior walls. Keep in mind that any cold spots may only be near the floor, so you may want to get down to your Pug's level to access things. With sleep apnea, a dog will stop breathing for 10 to 20 seconds, repeatedly throughout the night. While some stay asleep, many will gasp and wake up. This can cause sleep deprivation, which often manifests as troubled, moody behavior the next day. Reasons a Pug May Sleep Too Much Dogs will vary the amount of time that they sleep by an hour or so, just like humans. However, whenever there is a marked increase in how much a Pug is sleeping this is reason to take note. Possible reasons include: Mimicking- As we touched on a bit earlier, this breed is notorious for copying his owner. Even if you don't sleep much, if you spend a lot of time watching TV or zoning out with video games, etc. After all, very few Pugs will run around and stay super active if the owner is plopped on the sofa, aside from young puppies that may have high energy levels. Lack of Stimulation - If a dog has nothing better to do, he'll often do one of two things: bark or sleep. This breed often chooses the later and you really can't blame him. Dogs need interaction, challenges, sights to see and scents to smell! It's best for a Pug to have a fun session of command training after dinner, be taken for a late evening walk and have some interactional playtime as opposed to just lazing around. A dog's world is as small or as large as you allow it to be. If a Pug is kept at home without much going on, he's going to sleep more. If he's taken to different places, goes on new walking routes, is challenged by learning new commands, etc. Illness or Injury - Any time that a dog suddenly sleeps much more than normal, this is a red flag that there may be a medical condition. For puppies that appear to be suddenly weak and dizzy, this is a possible sign of hypoglycemia, most often seen in those 2 to 5 months old. With adults, any condition that causes the body to fight off disease or caused discomfort will make a dog sleep more. If you notice that your Pug is sleeping much more than usual, you cannot attribute it to any of the issues mentioned above and it lasts for longer than 3 days, this is your signal that it's time for a vet visit, even if there are no other symptoms. I'd swear my Pug does dream, he moves around and even seems to mumble. His eyes move around under his lids too when he's asleep. A: Yes, absolutely. Studies have proven that dogs do dream and quite often. They have eye twitching, lip movements and even vocalizations that you wrote about that point to REM sleep. REM sleep is the phase of deep sleep when dreams occur. It is believed that dogs and other animals can have complex dreams full of memories of actual events. So that's pretty cool; our Pugs are most likely having dreams about us. Q: Should my Pug sleep in my bed? Aside from hogging the mattress is there anything wrong with it? Would it be interpreted as spoiling? A: While you'll want to hold off until your Pug is housebroken, there's nothing inherently wrong with a Pug sleeping in his owner's bed. There are some cons, however. Due to heavy shedding you'll have to be prepared for how much fur may end up on your sheets, blankets and pillows. Also, know that once your Pug is allowed to sleep in your bed, that spot is claimed. Also, if an owner is currently single, some thought should go into the future when someone else may want the other side of the bed. Q: Is it okay for Pugs to sleep on their backs? My Pug will fall asleep, belly up, and his paws up in the air. It's pretty comical but I'm wondering if this can cause breathing problems or anything else? A: While this is not the 'normal' canine way of lying down to sleep, a small percentage of dogs do sleep this way. If your Pug finds that sleeping on his back is the optimal position for him and he must if he's doing it , this might actually be his way of breathing better at night. When curled up, this constricts the neck and makes breathing a bit more difficult. But if a Pug naturally lies on his back, neck extended back, this will open up the windpipe and may offer him better airflow though the nasal passages. Q: Is it normal for a Pug to sleep with his mouth open? My Pug does this and kind of drools while he's sleeping. A: Being a brachycephalic breed, Pugs are prone to stenotic nares, which essentially means narrowed nostrils. This can make it hard for a Pug to breathe correctly out of his nose. Excessive drooling while sleeping is a possible sign of sleep apnea. And snoring is a sign as well. But, with that said, if your Pug seems fine otherwise and the drooling is not too bad, it's nothing to be concerned with. Did you find this article helpful? You may also like: Pug Dog Separation Anxiety - Effective ways to help your Pug cope when home alone, whether you are gone for just a couple of hours or for the day. Pug Paw Care - The paws are an often overlooked area of the body, but one that should not be ignored. Read tips to keep your Pug's paws in good shape and help for treatment of common paw issues. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Pugs puppies from 3 — 8 weeks will sleep anywhere around 20 hours per day. Adult Pugs will sleep 14 hours a day and that is a lot more than other active dogs. It may sound this breed does nothing but sleep, most of it occurs at night. Basically, it comes down to how you raise them and the amount of attention you give them. If you choose to sit around watching television all day, this breed will be happy sleeping on your lap. Check out these playpens for Pugs to help increase their activity level. Pug Puppies: Just like babies, your new pup will require more sleep at this stage in their life. This includes the hours they sleep at night and the short cat naps they take throughout the day. Adult Pugs: At this stage in life, this breed can sleep up to 14 hours per day. At this point in their life, their metabolism slows down and they just want to spend their days lying around. Where Do Pugs Sleep? It basically comes down to a personal preference on where you want Fido to sleep. Read this article to find out whether Pugs can see in the dark and if they need a night light. Their Own Bed: Mindy had her own pet bed and this is where she slept and took all her naps. Dogs who are crate trained start thinking about their crate as their own little private den. Do Pugs Sleep A Lot? The short answer is it depends. Adult Pugs have a tendency to sleep quite a bit, especially if you are not keeping them active. If your Pug sleeps all day, then it might have to do with your current lifestyle. This breed tends to mimic their owners behavior. Of course, if you have an active lifestyle and your Pugs sleeping day and night, you may want to contact your veterinarian to find out if their are any underlying healthy concerns. Can Pugs Sleep Outside? This toy breed is an inside dog and should not be left outside for long periods of time. Because of their short noses, they are extremely sensitive to cold, humidity, and heat. They should never be left outdoors unattended for long periods of time. We realized that Mindy loved sleeping outside, she slept on the mulch in our garden. However, she had access to a pet door to come back in when she got tired of being outside. If your Pug loves sleeping outside, make sure they can get back inside. Leaving them outside by themselves can be dangerous and you could end up coming home to a dead Pug. Pugs with this sleep apnea may temporarily stop breathing, which causes them to wake up throughout the night. This can cause them to feel tired and groggy throughout the day. Mindy had a small case of insomnia when she gained a lot of excess weight. It eventually went away when her diet helped her shed those unwanted pounds. Insomnia: This occurs when your dog has trouble falling asleep or constantly wakes up throughout the night. Insomnia is usually a sign of a bigger problem, such as an illness, an injury or anxiety. If you spend a lot of time watching television, working on the computer, playing video games and etc, then your Pug has nothing better to do but sleep. If your pooch is just lounging around and sleeping all day, it could be a sign that they need more attention. You can improve their quality of life by getting them a companion or spending more time with them. Start taking them for short walks in the morning or the late afternoons. How Do Pugs Sleep? This breed loves their sleep and a few times we caught Mindy sleeping sitting up. At first, we thought she was watching TV, but she was actually sleeping! Here are some of the other awkward positions and what they mean. When Mindy was young, she loved sleeping on her back like a puppy. As she got older, she slept half on and half off of her bed. On Their Back, Paws in the Air Pug sleeping on back When a dog sleeps curled in a ball, it helps them conserve energy. When your Pug sleeps on their back with their belly exposed, they are trying to cool off. Their bellies have less fur and their paws hold sweat glands, and when they are exposed, it helps them keep cool while sleeping. It may not look comfortable to you and me, but this position indicates a dog is very comfortable because they are leaving their most vulnerable areas exposed. If your Pug is more active during their sleep, it means that they are in the REM stage of their sleep. Movement during their sleep is more common among puppies and senior dogs. Because it allows them to get take a quick nap and get back on their feet quickly. Pug puppies are very active, especially, if they live with other dogs or cats. Half On And Half Off Their Bed Pug dog sleeping When Mindy entered her senior years, we started noticing her awkward sleeping position of lying half on and half off her bed. We had no clue what it meant, but soon realized that she started sleeping this way due to the aches and pains in her body. Related Questions Why do pugs like to sleep under covers? Smaller dogs like to burrow themselves under the covers because it acts like shelter. If you let your dog sleep with you on a regular basis, your bed represents their shelter or den. Read this article to find out why dogs sleep under the covers. Your bed has become their happy place and crawling under the blankets represents the inner sanctum of their den and it is the safe place to be. They will spend most of their day playing and take short naps throughout the day. How Long Do Pugs Sleep? A normal healthy adult Pug will sleep around hours, depending on your lifestyle. My Pug Sleeps All Day. .It most likely has to do with the fact that your Pug is bored, especially, if they are younger. The required amount of sleep will vary by breed, however, most adult dogs will sleep around hours. If you feel that they are sleeping too much and are not dealing with any health issues. Then take a look at your life. Remember, this breed is known to mimic their owners. You May Also Like. A year-old pug will require around 12 hours of sleep every night. If your pup wakes up in the middle of the night and starts barking or whining, it probably means they need to go outside. Pug puppies tend to sleep even more than adult pugs. A newborn pug puppy usually sleeps about 18 hours every day. Pug Sleeping Reasons 1. Mimicking their masters Pugs are well known for their ability to mimic the behavior of their human masters. They will eat simultaneously, walk in the same stride and even sleep in the same positions. If you always curl up with your Pug on your lap, then they will do the same when they think that no one is watching. Suffering from stress or anxiety Pugs are compassionate creatures, and their human moods very easily influence them. If your Pug suffers from stress or anxiety, they may go to sleep to escape the problem. This can be triggered by changes in routine or anything that causes tension. If you find that your Pug sleeps excessively, you should speak to your vet about the best way of reducing their stress. Lack of exercise This is one of the leading causes of canine sleep disorders, and it is often overlooked. Pugs are gentle creatures by nature, but they need to participate in the exercise. They have a high energy level, and if this is not satisfied, they will find other ways to spend their time. It may not be a problem in the summer when they can spend hours chasing insects in the garden, but if you cannot take them out during colder weather, they will look for alternative ways to burn off their energy. Pug sleeping problems can often be solved by giving them more exercise, but they should balance their need to rest. There is no danger in them drinking too much, but it may cause them to sleep for long periods. Old age As with any breed, Pugs get older and suffer from different ailments that can cause them to sleep for more extended periods at a time. Older dogs need less exercise and often sleep more than their younger counterparts. Medical problems As with any breed, Pugs are prone to some medical issues. If they suffer from a severe condition, they may sleep for extended periods as a coping mechanism. Pugs are beautiful animals that will offer years of love and affection. If you find that your Pug is excessively tired, there may be reasons behind it. By identifying the problem, you can choose the best course of action, and your Pug can continue to enjoy a happy and healthy lifestyle. Caring for a Pug sleeping schedule: Pugs tend to sleep in the same spot all the time, by your feet or on your lap. You should make sure that their sleeping spot is clean to avoid skin or fur issues. Please do not disturb them when they are sleeping, or they will be startled. Do not allow other animals to disturb their sleeping habits, as they can become territorial over a good spot. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements around the Pug when napping during the day because it will mess with their sleep cycle. It is usual for a Pug to whine, grunt, or walk around when sleeping. Please do not wake up a Pug in deep sleep because it can be dangerous for their health. If your Pug is sleepwalking, ensure that you are not blocking them from a clear path to their potty spot. Pugs are also known to sleep talk, whistle, and snore, depending on how deep they sleep. Please do not allow children to disturb the sleeping habits of a Pug, as it can be hazardous. Yes, Pugs do have REM. This is because they are dogs and all dogs including Pugs have REM. REM is a sleep stage characterized by rapid eye movements and dreaming. Do Pugs suffer insomnia? Yes, Pugs can suffer from insomnia. They may also be more prone to getting sick because they cannot fight off infection. Owners of pugs should make sure their pet gets plenty of exercise and try to establish a regular sleep schedule. If your Pug has trouble sleeping, talk to your vet about possible solutions. How long do Pugs sleep at night? On average, Pugs sleep for around 14 hours per day. This varies slightly depending on the Pug, but 14 hours is right for the average dog. They tend to have two distinct periods of sleep — one during the day and one at night. Conclusion People who own pugs often joke that their dog is always sleeping. Post navigation. But for a toy breed like the Pug, how much is too much? Many Pug owners find themselves worrying that their dog spends way too much time in dreamland and not enough time playing and socializing. Do Pugs sleep more than other dogs? What is considered normal and at what point should you be concerned? Why does my Pug sleep so much? Sleeping between 10 — 14 hours a day is completely normal behavior for a Pug. Knowing how much sleep is normal for a Pug may put your mind at ease. But if your Pug has an unusual affinity for sleep and is dozing his life away, some changes are called for. The norm for most breeds is 10 hours, so a Pug typically sleeps just a bit more than the average dog. Depending on your sleeping habits, the majority of these hours will be during the night while you too are sleeping. So, if you average 9 hours of sleep each night, chances are that your Pug does too. Nine hours or so of nocturnal sleep mean that for the majority of the next day, your Pug should be awake and active, only catching a few naps here and there. Some owners find that this is indeed the case. Is that normal? You may not want to hear this, but the problem often lies with the owner. Cause: Boredom This is the number one cause of snoozing away the daylight hours. Your poor Pug simply has nothing better to do. Picture the following for a moment. No cell phone, computer, books, or TV. Nothing to engage you or hold your interest. You guessed it. The same thing happens to Pugs frequently. When they are left with nothing better to do, sleep is the only appealing option. Granted, many dog owners must head off to work for the majority of the day, leaving their four-legged buddy home alone without much to keep him alert and occupied and awake. Treat-dispensing ball toy — As your dog rolls, chews, and pounces on the ball, several treats are released to encourage more playtime. Interactive fitness robot — With this toy, you can schedule interactive play at certain times throughout the day right from your phone. Enlist help — Arrange for a friend or family member to drop by once or twice per day to take your little sleepyhead out for a short walk. No friends available? Try booking a professional dog walker on sites such as Rover or Wag. Doggy daycare — Chances are that there is at least one privately run daycare for dogs near you. If not, consider hiring a pet sitter to come by daily and spend a few hours interacting with your dog. Cause: Too Little Exercise Habits form easily. It takes motivation and encouragement to get you up and moving, right? The same is true for your Pug. Head out there with him and engage him in some fun activities. Get creative to hold his interest and make exercise fun. At the very least, establish the habit of going for a couple of short walks each day. Head out in a different direction every so often to keep things interesting. Cause: Obesity Pugs are a breed particularly prone to obesity. Guess what inactive pugs spend their time doing. Sleeping — which only makes the issue of obesity worse. Your vet can recommend an appropriate diet plan and exercise regimen to help your Pug shed some pounds and regain mobility. If your Pug is filling up on junk, he may not be getting enough required nutrients to keep him active and energetic. The result? A constantly tired, lethargic Pug. Not good. Solution Feed the highest quality kibble that you can afford so that your Pug will receive the necessary nutrients that he needs to convert food into energy and get off of that couch. Make sure that each bite of food he eats is nutrient-rich, not loaded with unneeded fat, sugar, and calories. If you spend hours at a time relaxing in the family room, your Pug is likely to be right by your side relaxing too i. Solution If your Pug is going to mimic your behavior, and he will, set a good example by moving around frequently throughout the day. Solution If you suspect that your Pug may not be feeling well, a trip to the veterinarian is in order. Your vet can run tests to diagnose the problem and get your Pug started on the road to recovery. Related Posts:. Is It Normal? Your pug is probably just… being a pug. These dogs require up to 14 hours of sleep daily, even as adults. The amount of sleep your pug needs will depend on his or her age. Whilst newborns seem to do nothing else, even adult pugs can often be seen to spend a lot of time snoozing. Newborns up to 3 weeks Sleeping hours: up to 22 hours per day Newborn Pugs sleep: What is normal? Sleep most of the day near mother and littermates Awake just for eating 2. Younger puppies 3 to 8 weeks Sleeping hours: hours per day Younger puppies sleep: What is normal? Will spend more time exploring Will stay awake a bit longer 3. Older puppies 2 to 5 months Sleeping hours: hours per day Older puppies sleep: What is normal? Sleep time split between nighttime and daytime naps Active puppies wear themselves out and sometimes fall asleep anywhere and everywhere 4. Adult Pugs 6 months to 9 years old Sleeping hours: 14 hours per day approximately Adult Pugs sleep: What is normal? By 6 months most pups transition to adult sleeping hours Depending on how much your pug sleeps during the night, they might take multiple naps throughout the day Pugs shadow their owners so will try to stay up with you but might not quite make it 5. Senior Pugs 9 years old plus Sleeping hours: 20 minutes to 1 hour more sleep than adults Senior Pugs sleep: What is normal? Decreased metabolism and reduced activity levels means your senior pug might need an extra hour of sleep This change with happen gradually Why Do Pugs Sleep So Much? Pugs sleep a lot. If your pug is sleeping between 10 and 14 hours per day, this is completely normal and need not cause any concern. Young pugs and senior pugs often sleep even more than this. Why is it that pugs sleep oh-so-much? They are boring Your pug might just be plain-old bored. This is a very common cause of oversleeping amongst pugs. When your pooch has nothing better to do they are more likely to snooze away the hours until something fun comes along to catch their interest. Think of your pug a bit like a teenager. Boredom equals laziness. They need constant distraction. But there are things you can do to keep your pug occupied and stimulated throughout the day. What can I do about it? Boredom is a very common problem that most owners struggle with from time to time. Try preparing some fun activities ahead of time. Here are a few ideas to get you started. They usually consist of a ball that gradually releases treats as the dog plays with it. Interactive toys: These days there are even interactive toys that let owners schedule playtime throughout the day. These toys are great for keeping your pug fit and on their feet. They can be synced to a mobile phone, letting you schedule regular play throughout the day remotely. Invest in Doggy Daycare: Doggy Daycare is another great option. Most towns or cities will have a local pet sitter or day care center. If you can afford it, this is a super way to avoid your pug falling into sedentary habits at home alone. Lack of exercise This is another big problem amongst pugs and their owners. Pugs will not develop good habits by themselves. Pugs need motivation to get moving. Establish a daily exercise routine: Head outside daily with your pooch. Walk them 40 minutes a day, you can break down the routine into 2 sessions to avoid any heat problems in Pugs. Hide-and-Seek: Did you know that pugs are great at hide-and-seek? Try playing fetch: Pugs may not be known for their fetching prowess but try getting creative and see what happens. Encourage your pug to run uphill and retrieve their favorite toy or ball. Mix things up with different games, locations, and toys, to keep your pug engaged and on the move. Attention: As brachycephalic dogs , they will need time to rest between bursts of activity. Obesity Another reason to exercise your pug is to keep them at healthy body weight. Pugs are prone to becoming overweight easily. If your pug is already on the heavier side, they will find exercise difficult. This could be why they are sleeping more or spending most of the day sedentary. Unfortunately, this will only make the problem worse. Book a health check: If you think your pug is overweight visit your local veterinarian for an overall doggy health check. They will check for hypothyroidism — a condition that leads to weight gain. Start a diet: Once any health problems have been ruled out by your vet they will recommend an appropriate dietary plan to get your pug back in tip-top shape. Avoid low-quality dog food, and try to limit treats. This will only make them unmotivated, and prone to sleeping far too much. Switch to high-quality kibble with natural ingredients and fewer additives. High-quality food will improve their health and offer them the nutrients they need to turn calories into useful energy. Limit treats: Try not to give in to those pleading eyes. Some treats are fine but keep them to a minimum. Make sure treats are healthy and nutritious as well as tasty. Brace yourself. In other words, pugs like to mimic their human family. Lead by example: Make an effort to engage with your pug every time you get up off the couch. Pugs mimic their humans. Just a few minutes of interaction here and there is enough to give your pug that much-needed energy boost and get them moving those paws. Illness Why do pugs sleep so much? Well, if your pup has been unwell or recently injured, it is entirely normal that they will need extra sleep to recoup and recover. Is there a change from normal? If you think your pug might not be feeling their best, the best thing you can do is book an appointment with your veterinarian. Your vet will probably run tests to rule out any more serious illnesses. Do as your vet instructs and let your pug rehabilitate with plenty of care and time to sleep. When does a lot of sleep go from normal to excessive? Changing sleep habits Look out for change. This is especially important when it comes to sleep, and is often one of the first things a vet will ask when concerned owners bring in their pug for a check-up. This will help you know when something is not quite right and support their health and wellbeing. For example, a pug that usually takes a 2-hour nap each morning is no cause for concern. But if a pug that usually takes a 2-hour nap, starts taking 4 or 5-hour naps on a regular basis, you will want to think about visiting your vet for a check-up. Waking up slowly Another warning sign to look out for is how your pug wakes up after sleeping. Dogs naturally wake up quickly, stretch, and get on with their day. Exercise intolerance Exercise intolerance is not simply laziness. Some diseases tire dogs out. As a result, they will appear to have much less energy than they normally would. It is sometimes difficult to notice any obvious sign of distress when your pup just seems to be resting. But they might be resting because of illness. Warning signs include resting in strange or unusual places, increased resting, and heavy panting. Yes, pugs will enjoy snoozing alongside their owners. Pugs display mimicking behaviors. This breed loves to keep close to their owners as much as possible. Is it normal for a pug puppy to sleep a lot? Pug adults sleep a lot, but pug puppies are on a whole other level. Newborns can sleep up to 22 hours per day and puppies will continue sleeping between 18 and 20 hours until approximately 5 months old. Why do pugs sleep so much? As a breed, they just need those extra hours of zees. Senior 14—18 hours The amount a Pug sleeps really does depend, and even if you have two Pugs of the same age, they might have different sleeping habits. About Pugs Pugs are small dogs that were initially bred as companion dogs. Today, they are one of the most popular pet breeds of dogs in the world and are popular because of their size but also because they are affectionate, loving, and loyal. They are also fun and they do enjoy some physical exercise. But there are certain things you can do to help ensure the happiness of your little four-legged friend. Image Credit: Yekatseryna Netuk, Shutterstock 2. Use a Harness The brachycephalic face of the dog, as well as its barrel chest, means that the Pug can struggle with respiratory problems. Collars can exacerbate the problem, whereas a harness sits around the chest and spreads pressure across the chest, shoulders, and back, therefore preventing breathing problems and making life easier for both of you. This, coupled with an insatiable appetite for treats, means that it is very easy for a Pug to put on weight and become overweight. The inability to exercise further means that once a Pug is overweight, it is very difficult to shift the pounds. Therefore, you will need to stick to a strict diet and try to avoid giving too many high-fat, low-quality tidbits. Provide about an hour of walks a day to ensure good physical condition. Avoid Extreme Temperatures In extreme cold and extreme heat, it becomes much more challenging to be able to breathe clearly, and this is especially a problem for the Pug because of its facial shape. If you do live in an area that suffers from extreme temperatures, you will need to find ways to combat and counteract these extremes so your Pug is happy and healthy. Image Credit: Ryan Garrett, Shutterstock Conclusion The Pug is a very popular pet dog breed that is kept by owners of all ages, all around the world. Although they can seem like lazy dogs, Pugs typically sleep around 14 hours a day , which is actually quite typical for most dog breeds. It might seem more because of the excessive breathing noises that the breed makes while it is asleep. Puppies and seniors also tend to sleep a little longer, but if you do notice that your dog is sleeping more than is typical for them, look for any other signs and symptoms of illness and consult a vet if you are worried. See also:. These dogs tend to sleep more than other breeds. They even snore, snort and make some weird noises that may sound ridiculous to you. Some might say they are lazy. But, Pugs are not lazy. They are interactive creatures that enjoy playing at any time. Yet, these dogs are curious and emotional, striving for your attention most of the time. Learn about your Pug sleeping habits to understand their health better. In this article, I will have answers to some questions about the sleeping habits of Pugs. The sleeping time of Pugs varies on their age: Pug Newborns Baby Pugs need a lot of sleep for their growth. On average, a newborn Pug can sleep up to 22 hours a day. They only wake up to eat and go to the bathroom. From the third week and on, Pug newborn pups will grow as their vision and hearing develop. So does their curiosity. Pug puppies at this stage will spend time playing with their littermates and exploring their world. Once the Pug puppies open the eyes, they will reduce their sleeping hours to 20 to 22 hours a day. Pug Puppies In the first couple of months, Pug puppies will sleep in between 18 to 20 hours. They spend the rest of the time eating and exploring their world. From 3 weeks old, the puppies will roam around their area, hopping on their paws, sniffing, and chewing. From 6 months old, the pup will sleep like an adult Pug. Adult Pugs Pugs from 6 months old sleep even less. They spend more time socializing, exploring the world, and shadowing you. They will sleep roughly around 14 hours a day; that includes nighttime snoozing of hours. During the day, Pugs spend around hours napping after being in high gear. Senior Pugs Old Pug dogs need extra hours to rest as they reduce activities. During the day, a senior Pug may nap more than when they were young. In particular, they may fall asleep earlier than they used to. A puppy Pug can sleep for more than 20 hours. Your Pug sleep habits may differ from others. But when compared to other breeds, Pugs sleep much more. Usually, a healthy Pug spends 9 hours for his nocturnal sleep. But if the Pug adapts to your sleeping hours, they may go to bed and wake at the same time as you do. Then, in the daytime, the dog may snuggle on the couch and catch a few naps for some hours. This is entirely normal. Pugs sleep more than enough. There are a variety of reasons for oversleeping in Pugs. If your grown Pug naps more than 5 hours a day, this can be a problem. Pugs demand a lot of attention from you. They need you around to spend up their energy. If a Pug falls into boredom, he will nap to wait for you. Sleeping this much is not healthy. That said, Pugs are not dogs to be left alone. They tend to sleep through the lonely hours. You can invest in some automatic interactive toys. But without your participation, Pugs are unlikely to get up. However, be aware. This could result in inside destruction. Alternatively, ask help from a friend or a relative to drop by twice a day. Daycare dog service: This kind of service will walk your dog hours a day and play with the pup if you are busy Fitness robot : This toy is a bit costly but may worth it as it keeps your Pug interactive without your presence. You can schedule the time for the bot to run and trigger your dog to play. Ball dispenser : This auto-dispenser can be a playmate for the Pug. But make sure you train your dog to use the machine before putting it to work. Obesity Obesity can make Pugs more sedentary. Without much exercise, an overweight Pug tends to sleep more to deal with the boredom. Also, you will get consulted on the exercises appropriate for an obese Pug. Low to no exercises Being lazy and not exercising is a bad habit which you should not form at the beginning of his young life. Instead, it would be best if you encouraged your Pug dog to romp and play rather than lounging on the sofa. Pugs are dogs that love to make their owner happy. That means you are the motivation. So, take the fetch to the backyard and start a game. Poor Diet Like people, Pugs become weak when consuming low-quality food, too many treats, and excessive fatty foods. Feed your Pug with high-quality food recipes for Pugs. As Pugs are prone to obesity, you should consider low fat, sugar, and calorie food. Mirroring As a part of the shadowing habit, Pugs tend to mimic you in the sleeping routine. That means, if you sleep, the pooch will drift off with you. So, if your sleeping schedule is chaotic, that will apply to your Pug too. Solution: This can be an advantage when your Pug tries to mirror you. Be awake during the day to play with your Pug. Play with him and help him use up his energy while giving him attention. Then, you can allow him to nap for an hour or so. Then, repeat the playtime. Sickness Sleeping is an integral part of healing. So, no wonder why Pugs, or any dog, would sleep through if they get sick. However, you should keep an eye on your Pug pup and wake him up on his mealtime. Your Pug also needs to be up to visit the vet and take medicine. Solution: A visit to your animal clinic is a must when your Pug is not feeling well. While under-recovery, your Pug needs a lot of time to rest, let him sleep, and wake him up for food. Pug Sleeping Troubles While some Pugs sleep soundly while dreaming at night, others struggle to sleep. Some owners find their puppy Pugs stay awake and howl out of isolation. Many of them feel insecure in a new home. However, other Pugs are awake and whine because they have enough sleep all day. Other than that, there are several care elements involved in Pug sleeping troubles. Bad bed The fact is Pugs are prone to hips and back issues. More than that, choose a bed that resists mold and dust mites. This helps your Pug sleep without disturbance. Besides, temperature changes also cause your Pug to lose sleep. Respiratory problem Breathing problems are common in Pugs due to their flat-wrinkled face. But with sleep apnea, a Pug will stop breathing for up to 20 seconds. This causes sleep deprivation. This leads to health troubles and misbehavior in the long run. The REM stage is a deep sleep where dogs may dream. However, Pugs are not heavy sleepers. Why do Pugs Snore in their Sleep? That affects the construction of the nostril, making it hard for the air to flow. Lethargy in Pugs? What is it? They could be sleepy, or they could be sick. But if you notice that your Pug sleeps through the day and lacks appetite, he is probably ill. Do Pugs Suffer Insomnia? When Pugs are restless at night, that means they have insomnia. The reasons vary from changes in the environment, diet, illness to uncomfortable bedding. If you want to know the source of insomnia in your Pug, take some time to observe. A healthy Pug should sleep well at night and nap during the day. But if your Pug is struggling to fall asleep, you should: Address the underlying cause Make sure she gets enough exercise during the day Supply melatonin.

Australian Labradoodles are dogs that have a very interesting history. They were first bred in the s by a member of the Australian Guide Dog Association who set out to produce a hypo-allergenic guide dog, for a blind woman who was allergic to dogs. They can be considered to be six in one, as six different breeds were used to create what I believe is the ultimate dog. They are gentle, smart, loving, playful and obedient. An extra bonus is that they have an allergy friendly coat and do not shed! Tootsie is a cuddly and very loving dog who adores children. She is very intelligent and has proved easy to train. Her gentle temperament means her puppies will be perfect for first time dog owners! She is an exceptionally pretty dog with a gorgeous thick and curly coat. Tootsie comes from my breeder friend from Poland, a wonderful lover of dogs who is respected and well known all across Europe. The dad of both sets of puppies is Miles, our amazing stud who comes from Spain. He is a wonderfully calm and gentle boy! He loves to play with other dogs, whether they are smaller, bigger, older or younger! Miles adores his family and enjoys learning new tricks as he is extremely obedient. He is a very pretty boy with a luxurious, thick brown coat. The Pups are now ready to go home! A deposit is required to reserve your puppy, please do get in touch for more details : - All of our dogs are extensively health checked, having passed all their hip, elbow and annual eye tests. As well as having extensive genetic DNA tests. We have done extensive remodelling to suit the needs of the little puppies as well as the mums! The puppies have an outdoor area built and designed exclusively for them and their needs. They are also potty trained and know basic commands. I will always be reachable for any questions! Please feel free to contact me or any of my other extremely satisfied customers who have welcomed one of my puppies into their homes. These organisations contain the most amazing group of breeders who only pick the best dogs to breed. Please check out my website which has links to all the popular social media! We love dogs. We have had and loved Labradors and Labradoodles since .Our first Labradoodle was Molly a U. Cream Standard F2 — she was a real character full of charisma and charm, friendly and laid back. Sadly, we lost our sweet Molly in — she is still very much missed by us and everyone that loved her. Her legacy lives on in her gorgeous puppies including our Indiana Bear — a beautiful cream standard F3 Golden Labradoodle. Indy is now retired and lives with us as a much-loved family pet. As a responsible, respected and licensed breeder, a Labradoodles good looks and temperament are not enough on their own but must be supported by rigorous health checks to ensure healthy puppies. I am passionate about dogs and work hard to ensure that Wheatfield puppies are truly homebred, born and raised in our dining room in the center of our busy family home. This offers greater socialisation and early basic training to provide them with the best possible start to life with their forever family. My puppies are available only as family pets and not for breeding. Like this:. The top five breeders who have been chosen for our list are equally reliable and meet our three main criteria to be deemed as such. Doodledoos — Herefordshire. Doodledoos Australian Labradoodles are family-run, established, and well-respected licensed breeders with over twenty-five years of experience in breeding and raising pure Australian Labradoodle puppies. They are not a puppy kennel with outdoor facilities — every one of their Doodle pups is raised inside their family home where they receive ample attention, care, and love. Doodledoos Australian Labradoodles offers large, medium, and miniature Labradoodle puppies for sale. Their high-standard breeding program adheres to a strict Code of Ethics to ensure that all of their breeding dogs are raised with proper care in order to be able to grow into happy and healthy pups of superb conformation and sound temperament. They maintain strict visiting procedures and a rigorous hygiene standard to ensure that their pups do not come in contact with any potential infections or diseases from the outside. All of their Labradoodle puppies are health tested, dewormed, vaccinated, microchipped, and properly socialized well before they go to their new homes. If you decide to buy one of their adorable Labradoodle puppies, you will also receive a lifetime of support and advice from the breeders themselves. Since Doodledoos Australian Labradoodles are a family-run breeder, they only have a few litters per year, so make sure to contact them and get on their waiting list for their upcoming new litter that is expected in the spring of .DoodleDoos Australian Labradoodles details:.

Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs.

To help them do this by sleeping during the night, make sure to establish a routine with the puppies so they learn when to sleep when to play, and when they can go potty. Tips to help your Labrador puppy sleep: Establish a nightly routine if you can establish a routine for the whole day as it will help the puppy adjust faster Keep the sleeping area dim and quiet Don't get the puppy energetic before bedtime avoid the temptation for a late evening playtime session Prepare for interruptions barking , howling , or potty breaks during the first few weeks of their life 10 Weeks Old At about 10 weeks old, the puppy is likely still adjusting to its new home and only just starting to get used to the nightly routine. They will sleep for about 16 to 20 hours each day. At this stage of their life, your puppy should start getting better control of its bowels, meaning you shouldn't have to take it out during the night as often as you have in the past few weeks. They may even be able to sleep through the night without a bathroom break. During this period, make sure to mainly focus on helping your puppy learn its nighttime schedule, as it is still difficult for it to learn at this stage. Trying to teach too many things to the pup at once can overwhelm it and rove to be unsuccessful. Your puppy should be getting around 11 to 15 hours of sleep every day. It is at this age that you are going to have to worry about the dog's temperament. However, if a good schedule was established for the puppy with time for naps throughout the day, you shouldn't have to worry about a rowdy or energetic pup during the night, as it knows when bedtime is. At about 6 months old your Labrador puppy will be sleeping for about 12 to 14 hours every day. By this stage in your Labrador puppy's life, it should no longer be barking, howling, or need to go to the bathroom during the night as you have established a routine and it has had plenty of time to learn it. With Labradors, make sure to give them plenty of exercise during the day so that they use up the stores of energy they have, or they can develop health problems and an irregular sleep schedule. Giving your Lab something to chew on before it goes to bed will also help it use up its excess energy and sleep better through the night. Now that it is an adult, it requires less sleep and will usually sleep for around 8 to 13 hours a day. This is a positive for Lab owners as they are monophasic sleepers , which means that they only have one sleep period. This means that if you have established a good routine for your Lab, you will be on the same sleep schedule. This is nice as most dogs are polyphasic sleepers , separating their periods of sleep into two or three chunks throughout the day. So, your Lab will still take naps during the day, but they will likely occur while you are at work or are out and about during the day. Example Routine For Labrador Puppies The following is likely what your Labrador's schedule will look like, including its naps. Morning Schedule: Wake up and take the puppy outside to relieve itself Feed it breakfast Give it another potty break it is typically that puppies need to relieve themselves after eating Socializing, playing with your puppy, or taking on a walk Ideally for 30 to 60 minutes Nap Time Expect about 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on age Potty Break. Evening Puppy Exercise Spend a good 10—20 minutes playing with your pup outside or inside a couple of times during the evening. Play a game of tug or get them interested in chasing a flirt pole. Not only will this tire them out, but it will also give them some important physical exercise. Evening Brain Games and Training Use the commercials during your evening television shows to practice some basic training cues with your puppy. Not only does this work their brains and take the edge off, but it builds your relationship with your puppy and promotes a solid training foundation. A puppy's attention span is pretty short, so keep training sessions short and sweet and spread them out throughout the day. Ditch the regular food bowl and use a puzzle feeder for your puppy's evening meal. Below are some of my favorite food puzzles and interactive feeders. They're fun for dogs and tricky enough to engage their brains, yet not so difficult that a dog will become frustrated and give up. I recommend starting with the West Paw Toppl featured below for your puppy's first interactive feeder , as the opening is wider than a Kong toy — making it easier to de-stuff and for you to stuff and then clean afterward! As your puppy is successful with easier stuffed toys, they can move up to more difficult puzzles! You can see my puppy Fozzie Bear going to town on his Toppl toy during crate acclimation in this video: West Paw Toppl Interactive Feeder Available at: Available at: Difflife Snuffle Mat This snuffle mat provides a variety of hiding spots for dry food or treats, encouraging your dog to use their nose to find their meal and helping to slow down eating. The repetitive nature of these things is self-soothing to your puppy much how activities like knitting are for us. The snuffle mat I recommended above is a great way to work their nose indoors, or you can scatter their food in the grass of your yard for them to sniff out. Freeze your puppy's meal in their Toppl to make it last longer or use a licking mat smeared with a tiny bit of peanut butter or wet food for a good lick session. Hyper Pet IQ Treat Lick Mat Spread a bit of your dog's wet food, peanut butter, pureed pumpkin, or low-fat greek yogurt on this mat to provide a soothing enrichment activity. Take your puppy out for a bathroom break as late as possible — ideally, the last person to bed should also take your pup to their potty spot. This helps empty them out, decreasing the chance of them needing to go in the middle of the night. Keep this last potty break calm and boring. You don't want your sleepy puppy finding their second wind! On this note, consider your puppy's evening mealtime. You don't want to feed your puppy too late in the evening that they need to go 2 in the middle of the night. However, if you feed them too early, they may be hungry at bedtime and that can make them restless. One way to prevent late-night hunger is to use food puzzles with small "snack-sized" portions of food as their pre-bedtime enrichment. When it comes to leaving water in your puppy's crate, I always recommend free access to water at all times. Water is a "primary resource" — meaning your puppy needs it to survive. And there are some medical conditions that require access to drinking water at all times. But, if your puppy is waking up continually during the night because they need to urinate, speak with your veterinarian to first rule out medical reasons such as a urinary tract infection and then discuss with them whether restricting access to water before and during the night is a good choice for your puppy. Keeping a puppy potty log can really help you determine your puppy's natural potty schedule, which can help you adjust feeding times to increase longer sleep time at night. Download our free potty log template. PRO TIP: It can be helpful to set an alarm for yourself during the night to wake up and take your puppy for a quick potty break. It's all about being proactive — with an alarm, your puppy won't wake up feeling like they're ready to burst and start whining or crying in their crate. As they mature, your alarm can be set later and later as they can physically hold it longer. For more tips on potty training, check out "How to Potty Train a Puppy. The transition from sleeping in close proximity skin-to-skin.The reviews and photos people have submitted for this product are absolutely heartwarming, you really should check them out. I like to believe that he found having a familiar scent paired with the heartbeat sound and heat pack very comforting as he learned to sleep in his crate. He certainly loved to cuddle with it, and even after he transitioned to sleeping outside of the crate once he was old enough, he still carried the Snuggle Puppy around to use as a pillow, as you can see in the inset photo. The Snuggle Puppy can last for years. Even when your dog doesn't need it at night, just take out the batteries and heating pack and your dog will still carry it around! Another important feature of the Snuggle Puppy is that it's washable just don't forget to remove the batteries first! Another Preventive Vet staff review: "Mary Berry was having a difficult time sleeping alone in her crate — our guess was that she was missing her mom and littermates. She slept so soundly with the Snuggle Puppy, we would bring it with us when visiting friends so she had a comfortable piece of home to rest with. I highly recommend the Snuggle Puppy to help your new puppy sleep through the night! If your dog's idea of "snuggling" this toy involves mouthing, chewing, or disemboweling, be sure to take the toy away from them. Batteries are very dangerous for dogs if they are swallowed. Soothing Scents for Your Puppy Using dog-appeasing pheromones also called DAP can help your puppy feel secure and calm, as these mimic the pheromones their mother emits during nursing. Pheromones work for many puppies, but not all. But there's no downside to trying it out with your pup, so it's something I regularly recommend. The Adaptil pheromone diffuser covers a large space and lasts for 30 days before needing a refill. You might even try a spritz from an Adaptil spray on bedding shortly before placing your puppy in their crate. Just one or two spritzes are all you need! Adaptil Pheromone Diffuser. Your Labrador puppy might be a dynamo when they are awake and then fall into a deep sleep in the middle of the action, like a magic trick. REM and Your Puppy Much like human babies, your Labrador puppy will spend between hours sleeping, and the rest causing mischief and delightful mayhem. Like people, your pup experiences REM or Rapid Eye Movement, which is essential for brain processes such as learning and processing daily experiences. Unlike humans, your labrador pup has a polyphasic sleep pattern meaning that they sleep multiple times in a 24hr cycle. Puppies that have more activity before their nighttime sleep tend to move from a drowsy state to REM quicker. Experts in this field believe that dogs use REM to consolidate their memories and need REM to retain their learned skills. This learning is also essential when teaching your labrador puppy routines such as sleeping through the night. How Long Do Labrador Puppies Sleep at Night Your Labrador puppy will initially only sleep a maximum of three hours, as their tiny bladders are not fully developed yet. Expect to be woken once or twice in the early hours for your puppy to use the bathroom. It may be an idea to set your clock for two to three-hour intervals so that you can allow your puppy to go to the bathroom without getting into the habit of walking you for bathroom needs. Your Labrador puppy should be sleeping through the night or roughly hours by the time they reach the age of 4 months. It is essential to teach your Labrador puppy to learn your sleeping routines and sleep when you do at night. However, you should be in no hurry because your puppy needs time to learn how to match their sleeping patterns to your own. Establish a routine where you put your pup to sleep at the same time and place. Some owners prefer to train their Labrador puppies to sleep in a crate when they are eight weeks. Although it makes logical sense, some may see this as a bit extreme. Labrador puppies thrive on human contact and need contact to transition from their separation from siblings and their mother. It would be best if you kept the puppy nearby in your room unless you aim to let them share your bed as adults. This way, you can be attentive to their needs and let them out to do their business. Preparing Your Labrador Puppy for a Sleep Schedule Daytime Sleep Puppies also need to sleep during the day and often drop off mid-stride after energetic play. Once they wake, they are refreshed and ready to cause mischief once more. These day naps can last anywhere from thirty minutes to a couple of hours. Daytime sleep is as essential as nighttime rest, and you should try not to disturb or move them unless it is to make them more comfortable. Keep them entertained with playtime and attention before you intend to sleep yourself. They need to learn that nighttime is not for play but for sleep. Puppies are like babies and need to learn to understand the world around them. I am a firm believer in dogs that share my life, share my bed. Dogs in the bed may be contentious, but it seems the benefits may be reciprocal as studies show that humans sleep better with a dog in their bed. Whether a crate or a bed is your preference, you should consider these tips when readying your pup to follow a nighttime sleep schedule: Designate a sleeping area. Whether you chose a puppy bed or a crate, you should try and make the sleeping area as comfortable as possible for your puppy. You should explain to children or others in your space that the puppy should not be disturbed when they are in their sleeping area. Make the area a calm and positive space. Allow your puppy to familiarize itself with the sleeping area or bed and reward your pup with treats so that they associate the area with positive experiences. Set a waking and sleeping schedule. Puppies soon learn human waking and sleeping times, and you should stick to an established time for morning waking and nighttime sleep. Encourage day naps in the sleeping area. After play and exercise, introduce your pup to the sleeping area for daytime naps, so they associate the area with quiet time. Keep the area quiet and dim. If your puppy is in your room, turn off brighter lighting and turn down your television volume if applicable. If you choose a crate, throw a light cover over it to make a safe nest for your pup. Set a routine that nighttime is not for play and Reward your pup with treats when they go into their crate or sleeping space. Even adult labradors thrive on close physical contact with their owners and love nothing better than a cuddle. Labrador puppies crave physical contact even more so and love nothing better than being close to their human parents. However cuddly they are as pups, Labradors will grow on average to 29—36 kg 65—80 lb for males and females 25—32 kg 55—70 lb. They are a medium-large breed, and I can vouch for the fact that they take up quite a bit of space on the bed. They also love anything muddy and wet and often drag soggy treats onto the pillows for fun. And noises from the other end. However, you may opt for a dog bed nearby your sleeping space as a more spacious option while staying in close contact with your dog. Conclusion It seems strange that a Labrador puppy that sleeps on average 18 hours a day can still consistently wake you in the wee hours. Your furry Labrador pup will steal your heart and possibly a month or two of unbroken sleep at the same time. Consistency is key to giving your Labrador the time to learn and develop enough to understand the need for nighttime sleep. With the right training and patience, your pup will be sleeping the same hours as you in no time at all. Related Articles. Otherwise she will just "go" when she needs to, in a place that is not her bed. I have tried both ways, and though it is a nuisance to have to take them out at night they are house trained much more quickly. Click to expand.Not necessarily and certainly not for us with Oban. WE did not enclose him in the crate, the door was open but the kitchen was gated. He was downstairs too, but we could hear him begin to rustle around. So it may depend on the owner's hearing acuity. My Vet believes crate training, if it functions as you describe, may be detrimental down the road if it forces puppy to hold on longer than he should. Just as I doubt there is a woman among us who has not been told by her Doctor, "When you gotta go, GO" as older age problems from straining to hold may develop. Plus, when puppies are very young they Can't hold on. And if I can't hear I'd rather he make a little deposit on my floor than lie in pee or poop. Actually, we did miss a few cues and he did pick a place on the floor away from his bed, as you say. So the intent is there very young, just not the ability to control. So, where should your Lab puppy sleep? A Labrador puppy should sleep in a crate or dog bed. The easiest option is a crate as you can control his environment better, and it also helps to toilet train your puppy quicker. If you choose a dog bed, partition off an area of the house using baby gates or a playpen. As a first-time dog owner, I took the sound advice of my breeder. He told me that a crate is the easiest way to train a pup to sleep well — and for faster potty training! Although I could hear my puppy cry once in a while during her first night, after that, she was fine. This is quite normal, and your dog will soon get to love his crate — he will recognize it as his special place where no one else is allowed! Here are some helpful tips to help your Labrador settle in his crate and sleep well, especially on his first night: Make sure you buy the correct size. Use a divider to partition the crate in half. As the crate will be too large at first, you can use a divider to adjust the size as your Labrador grows. I like the Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate from Amazon as it has everything you need and comes with an all-inclusive divider and wipe-clean removable tray. You can also choose either a single or double door that is handy. Cover half of the crate with a blanket. Situate the crate close to your bedroom. A quiet area for sleeping is best, not too far away from your bedroom, so you can hear your pup if he needs to go outside during the night. Or you can choose to put it right next to your bed if space allows. If you put the crate in your bedroom, you can transition to another part of the house after a few weeks. I chose to put the crate at the end of the landing as I am a light sleeper, and I hate having my sleep disturbed! Remember, dogs have different sleep cycles from humans! Check out this step-by-step guide to learn tons more on crate training, Easy Labrador Puppy Crate Training. Check out my recommendations for the Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens , including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. If your Labrador puppy is having a tough time sleeping through the night, you may wonder exactly when they might be able to master this new skill! Labrador puppies typically sleep through the night by 4 months old. At this age, they should sleep between hours. If you lay the foundations on the first night, your puppy may be able to achieve a night without waking up sooner. It can also help if you have a good routine and are an early riser. Here are some helpful tips to speed up the process of getting your pup to sleep through the night: Routine. Dogs thrive on routine, so ensure you establish a good bedtime routine. Potty breaks. Make sure you allow your pup to go potty right before bedtime. However, young puppies may need to go outside during the night while their tiny bladders develop. Interactive puzzle toys are also great for mental stimulation. Crate training. You can learn what to do instead in my article all about common Labrador behaviors. But are you wondering at what age your Labrador can sleep with you? This allows him to be fully potty trained and sleep through the night without having to go potty or cry for you. This interesting study compared human-canine sleeping with adult-child co-sleeping and evidenced that both shared similar benefits and drawbacks. Remember, dogs who are territorial or aggressive should not sleep in your bed. Some of the most common health benefits of sleeping with your Labrador include: An overall reduction in depression and anxiety. Increased feeling of security. Provide companionship and decrease loneliness. Reduced stress. Lowered blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. A decrease in hypertension. Cons of Sleeping with Your Labrador Of course, there can be negatives to allowing your Labrador to sleep with you in your bed. Labs are also heavy shedders, and you may find pet dander uncomfortable. Your dog can sometimes carry harmful germs. It may affect your relationship! If you sleep with a partner, allowing your dog to sleep in your bed can cause friction and disruption. Although you may suffer from disturbed sleep if you sleep with your dog, you are unlikely to be affected by his night-time antics if you are a deep sleeper. Indeed, this study from The Mayo Clinic looked at the sleep of 40 healthy humans and their dogs occupying the same bedroom to find out whether sleeping together was detrimental to sleep. Human sleep quality was lower if the dog slept on the bed rather than just in the room. Nonetheless, even if you allow your Labrador to sleep with you, only let him onto your bed when you say so. Your dog should not have free reign of your bed, which can hinder how he views the pecking order. But what about modern dogs? Do Labradors actually like sleeping with their owners? Most Labradors like to sleep with their owners as a sign of affection and closeness. Dogs are social animals and instinctively want to sleep with you as they like to be close to their pack, and you are the head of the pack! They also want to protect you and display their loyalty and trust. Some dogs might get too hot on your bed and may temporarily move onto the floor to cool down. Some might not want to sleep with you at all! Always have another place where your Labrador can sleep, such as a bed or crate nearby where he can get warm and cozy. Can a Labrador Puppy Sleep Outside? Labrador puppies grow very quickly, which leaves some pet owners wondering when would be the right time to transition their pooch to an outdoor sleeping area. But can a Labrador puppy sleep outside in the first instance? Labrador puppies can sleep outside, but not until they are between months of age. They also need to be socialized, trained, and spend time bonding with their family. The health risks around this become more precarious in extremely hot or cold temperatures. The same goes for the rarer long-haired Lab. Your Labrador is more at risk of diseases and parasites. Until your pup has received his vaccinations to keep him healthy, he is more vulnerable to illnesses and parasites. Immunizations are typically not completed until 16 weeks, so training him to sleep outside sooner than this may compromise his health. Your Lab needs to be socialized and trained. All puppies must be socialized, obedience trained, and allowed to bond with their family. Without proper socialization, you risk your Lab becoming fearful, reactive , nervous, or even aggressive. To ensure that your Labrador puppy is healthy and safe when sleeping outside, there are a few things you should always make sure he has. These items include: A doghouse. This provides your puppy with a safe space to feel safe and snuggle down. I would definitely have this Petmate Dog House from Amazon on my wish list! A bit pricey, though! Water bowl. Make sure your Lab has his favorite water bowl filled to the brink every night. Favorite toys. To make your puppy feel comfortable and relaxed, put his favorite toys wherever he sleeps outside. When all is said and done once your dog has matured, it is a matter of personal choice. Here are the key takeaways from the article: You may choose to let your new puppy sleep at your side. When he has grown, you can let him sleep on your bed. He needs to be fully house-trained and at least six months old. The benefits of sleeping with your Lab are security, bonding, and mental health. Negatives include disturbed sleep and an increase in your allergy symptoms. Most Labradors like sleeping with their owners. You can transition your dog to sleep outside between months of age. Related Posts You May Like:. Where do dogs sleep? Dog sleep patterns are fascinating things. They have what is called polyphasic sleep, where they have periods of wake and sleep that occur during both the day and the night. And help you to understand the changes that occur in different stages of their lives, including when they are unwell. How Long Do Dogs Sleep? Dogs have a sleep pattern known as polyphasic. This means that they have multiple periods of sleep scattered throughout the day and night. A feature that they share with many other mammals. Dogs have better night vision than we do. So their ancestors could hunt both by day and by night, if necessary. In fact, hunting at night may have given them some advantages. It is easier to creep up on your victim under the cover of darkness. Dog Sleep Patterns Sleeping all night had no advantage for dogs, so dogs did not evolve a natural tendency to sleep for a single long stretch of time like we do. Instead, they acquired the useful ability to get as much sleep as possible, often in short stretches, whenever there is nothing much going on. You may have noticed that your dog wakes up instantly and is ready for action right away. And living with humans means that most dogs do learn to sleep the night away without disturbing their human family. Though they may wake and move around briefly during this period of time. If your dog is not sleeping through the night and disturbing your sleep, consider whether he is getting enough daytime activity and stimulation. Dogs have retained their ability to sleep whenever life gets dull. Studies of guard dogs have shown that dogs are not disadvantaged by being woken up frequently or working in changing shifts. They simply sleep when they get the chance. But how many hours sleep does a dog need during each 24 hour period? Dogs naturally sleep for longer periods of time each day than people do. But just like humans, sleep needs vary among individual dogs. Sleep needs also vary among different dog breeds. Adult Labradors will sleep for well over half of every 24 hours, and puppies under four months old may sleep as much as 20 hours a day. The reason for all this sleeping may have to do with a special type of sleep called rapid eye movement, or REM, sleep during which dreaming takes place. Do Dogs Dream? Dogs certainly appear to dream in the same way that we do. And their brains behave in a similar way to ours during the sleep cycle. REM sleep is just one phase of the sleep cycle that both dogs and humans experience. A study published in showed that REM or dreaming sleep decreases as dogs get older. So it looks as though puppies dream more than adult dogs. Sometimes when fast asleep, your dog will make twitching and running movements with his paws, and some dogs will give little yips and barks. This is a normal part of deep REM or dreaming sleep. Studies have also shown that if the part of the brain that de-activates movement during sleep is removed from a dog, the sleeping dog will actually carry out the behaviors that he is dreaming about. Let Sleeping Dogs Lie! We know that in humans, REM sleep is important. Being deprived of REM sleep can cause unpleasant effects, and there is no reason to think that dogs are any different. It is important to allow your dog to sleep deeply when he wants to and to not interrupt his sleep when he starts dreaming. Some veterinary specialists speculate that dogs sleep more than humans because their REM sleep is often interrupted due to their ability to wake easily and quickly and be ready for action. Because of that wakefulness, dogs need more periods of sleep in which to get an adequate amount of REM sleep. If you are worried that your dog may be ill because he is sleeping so much, ask yourself what has changed. Is he sleeping a lot more than he was just last week? Or has he always slept this much? Is he bright and bouncy when he is awake? Does he have a good appetite? Or does he seem lethargic or uninterested in food? Excessive sleeping in a dog that is eating well and full of energy when awake is unlikely to have any significance. And some elderly dogs tend to sleep more than they did when they were young. Make a Special Sleeping Space Your Labrador, like all dogs, is able to awaken quickly from sleep and be ready for action, whenever an opportunity presents itself. However, constantly interrupting his sleep is not a good idea. While many confident dogs will sleep pretty much anywhere, it is important that every dog has his own sleeping space. A place where he can go and relax when he wants to. Even if your dog shares your bed at night, he should still have a bed somewhere in the house that he can call his own. It needs to be somewhere free of drafts and comfortable, preferably lined with a cozy mat or blanket. Elderly Labradors may need thicker padding to support their joints. Orthopedic dog beds can provide extra comfort. It is here, in his special space, that your dog can relax fully and sleep deeply. Dogs naturally sleep for long periods of time, and sleeping a lot is nothing to worry about in a dog that is active, enjoying his food and living life to the fullest. Just like people, dogs need deep REM sleep, and constantly interrupted sleep can be harmful. You can check out crate information here: The benefits of a dog crate. Also the last meal of the day is several hours before bed time. The principles are the same. How much should my 9 week old puppy weigh? Your best guide to whether or not your puppy is growing properly is how he behaves and feels, rather than what the scales say. As a rough guide, many 9 week old lab puppies will weigh between lbs or a couple of pounds either side of this. Check out our puppy growth FAQ for more information. Puppy weights may also vary quite considerably between the two different types of Labrador field and show and even between individuals from the same litter. Potty training a 9 week old puppy Nine weeks is often the point at which people start to worry about potty training progress, or rather, lack of it. Perhaps you are taking your Labrador puppy outside after every meal, and every time he wakes up, but he is still making puddles all over the house. So what is going on? Nine week old pups have very poor bladder control, and short memories. He is still very much a baby and will need your help in this department for some time to come. Your role is to restrict his access to areas where mistakes are most likely to happen, through the use of baby gates or some other kind of temporary barrier. You will also need to take him outside before his bladder is over flowing which might be every twenty minutes at certain times of the day and to generally ensure that every wee goes in the right place. Check out our complete guide to potty training for more information. This is such a common concern, and often arises for the first time at about nine weeks. The puppy is settled in his new home, his shyness has worn off, his confidence is back, and he is ready for some fun. Concerns arise, simply because most people do not realise just how ferocious Labrador puppies seem when they play. Puppies bite hard and make a lot of noise and this is usually quite normal. Check out this article on puppy aggression to reassure yourself that you have not bought a vicious wild animal into your home. How much to feed a 9 week old puppy Many puppies, especially Lab puppies, are very greedy and wolf down every morsel you provide for them. Puppies like this will eat far more than they need and quickly become obese if you let them decide on quantities. You also need to bear in mind that every brand of puppy food is different. You can then add a little more to each meal if the puppy is not gaining weight steadily, or reduce the meals a tiny bit if he is getting too plump. However, if your puppy normally eats heartily and suddenly goes off his food, all food, then he may be unwell. Have a chat with your vet if you are concerned, especially if your puppy misses more than one meal. On the other hand, if he is quite happy to eat an alternative menu, the chances are he is simply exercising his right to an opinion. I strongly recommend you ignore this, and simply take his bowl away. You can offer the same meal later when the puppy is more hungry. If you are interested in feeding your puppy on a more natural diet, you may enjoy our guide to raw feeding: Raw feeding for dogs. And provided that you use modern methods, which are great fun for dogs of all ages. Fortunately this is not a problem at all, because a nine week old puppy does not need a walk. What he needs is space to trot about and play. And your yard or garden is probably suitable for this. So, you have all the time in the world, in which to introduce your puppy to his collar and lead. Let him wear a collar for a short while each day. Clip the lead on from time to time and let it trail. Distract him with food and cuddles. Occasionally pick up the end and encourage him to follow you. Just drop your email address into the box below: Socializing your 9 week old puppy We have known for several decades that puppies need to be exposed to different types of experiences before they are three months old , in order to become confident and fearless. Yet far too many puppies are kept at home, away from the world in those important first few weeks. Socialization is all about raising a friendly confident dog, and proper socialization helps to avoid problems like fearfulness and aggression. That means taking your puppy to lots of different places, carrying them in your arms or a carrier, to avoid contact with potential sources of infection. Enrolling your puppy in a well-supervised, modern force free training class can be a great way of building social confidence too. Studies have shown that puppies enrolled in classes before 20 weeks of age are less likely to be fearful than puppies kept at home. The same goes for houses you regularly visit with only dogs that you are confident have been recently vaccinated. Leaving a 9 week old puppy alone during the day is not a good idea. At this stage of their life they have only been in your home for a short time, and are still settling in. They need constant supervision for toilet training, and are probably still learning to be happy in their crate. Can I bathe my 9 week old puppy? But Labradors being Labradors, there is bound to come a point when you have a sticky or messy pup on your hands! Just use a gentle shampoo designed for puppies, and try to make the process fun for your little one. You might find the kitchen sink or a large plastic bowl is a lot less scary than the great big family bathtub. Why a Puppy Sleeping at Night is Important There are a few reasons why puppies should sleep through the night. One reason is that it will help them to adjust to a regular sleep schedule. It will also help them to develop and grow properly and will keep them healthy. In general, a puppy needs to sleep as much as possible since it is growing and developing really fast. If the puppy learns from the beginning that sleeping at night is a natural thing, this will improve your life in so many ways. A rested dog is easier to handle and more socialized. Meanwhile, the dog and owner bond becomes stronger. The dog is also more relaxed and obedient during the daytime. By teaching the puppy its sleep times, you will solve a lot of problems. The most common reason is that the puppy is not tired at night. The second reason might be that the dog wakes up because it is hungry or thirsty. This can be fixed by feeding or giving water to your puppy at specific times during the day. Puppies have small bladders and will wake up frequently at night until their bladder becomes more developed. If this is the case, you can try taking your dog outside in the middle of the night so they can relieve themselves. If your puppy is still restless at night, you might want to visit the veterinarian. This will help rule out any serious problems that may be bothering your pup. A lot of puppies can sleep through the whole night after two weeks of training. But there are some puppies that it will take a little bit longer. As a general rule, you can expect your pup to sleep through the night after weeks of training. Nobody knows exactly how long an individual puppy will take because every dog is different. Especially if you know what wakes the dog up during the night, it is easier to train the puppy to sleep through the night: Establish a bedtime routine A routine will help your dog to get into a rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep. At a specific time each day, make sure to take your puppy outside for a walk or some playtime. Make sure the room is dark enough During the nighttime, it should be as dark as possible. Make sure that any light in the room is turned off, and use blackout curtains to cover the window. Create a comfortable sleeping environment The puppy needs to be comfortable in order to sleep. Make sure that the bed is warm enough, but not too hot. The temperature should be around degrees Fahrenheit. Also, make sure that there are no noise disturbances during the night. Be patient Some puppies will take longer than others to get used to sleeping through the night. Regular feeding times will help your dog get into a routine and know when to expect food. At first, the puppy may whine or bark when you put it to sleep. It takes time for them to understand that it is bedtime and they need to sleep. Keep training sessions short and positive. Your dog will eventually come around so long as you are patient. If your dog is up and about during the night, there are a few things you can do to help them calm down and get back to sleep. A little bit of exercise will help them wear themselves out and get back to sleep. If your dog is restless or seems agitated, try playing some calming music for them or use a white noise machine to soothe them. Make sure they have plenty of water and access to their bed or favorite spot in the house so they can relax comfortably. A puppy can feel most secure when sleeping in a crate. They will also be comfortable and feel safe if they know that a crate is a sleeping place. The crate should be big enough for your puppy to stand up and turn around in. The puppy should also be able to lay down comfortably without having his or her head pushed into the bars of the cage. However, during the first days, you will need to assist the puppy with getting into the crate. Make sure that the crate is also safe, with nothing on the inside of it which could hurt your puppy if he or she would decide to chew on it. It is important that this location is easily accessible for both the dog and its owner. Also make sure not to place it in a spot that would be harmful to your dogs, such as an area with too much sunlight or a cold floor. Most puppies require hours of sleep at night, as well as 20 hours during the day. Young puppies up to 3 months old need the most sleep, and as they get older they need less and less. During sleep, puppies grow and develop physically and mentally. Lack of sleep can lead to problems such as obesity, impaired socialization, and an increased risk of developing behavioral problems. Ideally, your puppy should have a regular sleep schedule so he can develop good sleeping habits. Try putting your puppy in his crate for scheduled naps and bedtimes — this will help him learn to relax and get some restorative Zs. Bottom Line For a puppy who is up and about during the night, there are a few things you can do to help them calm down and get back to sleep. Puppies need six to ten hours of good quality sleep every day in order to grow and develop properly. Try putting your dog in its crate during scheduled naps and bedtimes so it can learn to relax and get the restorative sleep it needs. Share this post:.