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Once he has reached maturity, you can switch to adult dog food. Not all breeds reach maturity at the same age, however, so this can make it harder to know when to switch. How Long to Feed Puppy Food Puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food until they reach maturity. For dogs, adulthood depends more on breed size than their age. Because large and giant breeds take longer to mature, they need to eat puppy food longer than small- or medium-sized breeds. Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds. They can tell you when to switch to an adult dog food and help make it a successful transition. Leftovers in a bowl could signal that your puppy is getting full and needs less calories throughout the day. Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could cause him to become overweight, which can lead to other health problems. Choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula once your puppy reaches maturity to help him maintain his ideal body condition. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food Once you know when your puppy will reach maturity, you can decide when to switch to adult food. If your puppy will be full grown at 12 months, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula around his first birthday. How to Transition Puppy to an Adult Dog Food When you stop feeding puppy food, you must change more than just the food he eats. The number of meals and portion sizes will shift, too. Most puppies eat three meals a day , but adult dogs can eat just two meals per day. A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset. Days 3 to 4: Serve half puppy food and half adult dog food. Days 8 to Serve only adult dog food. If your dog resists eating the adult food or experiences an upset stomach, extend the transition time as needed. Consult with your veterinarian for more help if needed. For more information and tips on puppy and dog nutrition from our experts , visit our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. Check Price Why do we need to switch from puppy food to dog food golden retrievers? They will need more high source of nutritional needs so they can stay healthy and preserve they well-being. But the first few weeks of the transition period are not that easy. Your golden retriever might experience tummy issues. You got to make an extra effort to identify the right food for your puppy during his period of becoming an adult dog. That said, you need to regularly consult with your vet and strategize about the week of the transition period so your dog will become safe with no gastrointestinal tract issues. At first, it may be hard to tell which can be mistaken for health issues or others. But these tell-tale signs are most likely that your puppy is no longer a pup but a developing adult reaching its maturity. Although we, dog owners, hard to accept that they are becoming adult golden retrievers, we still need to prepare for those inevitable events. What we need is to support them and we need to identify these signs. While those new teeth are coming in, you will need some chewing sticks or chew toys for your growing Golden puppy. This is also the time where you need to consider switching from puppy food to dog food which can be done slowly and through a discussion from your vet. Meaning that your puppy is becoming more responsible and matured. They are comparable to any highly active dogs because of their endless energy which makes them want to play all day long. But over time when your puppy is beginning to become less playful, this may be a sign that he is leaning towards adulthood. They may want to play with you every five minutes. He eats slower and eats less Puppies are known for their being voracious eaters. But when they hit their adulthood or while in their transition period to their full-grown dog, they will eat less and you will also notice how slower they eat than they are before. The puppy begins to physically mature Upon reaching 9 months of age, your golden retriever puppy is along its way to becoming mature. There are different kinds of maturity when it comes to dogs and they are largely affected through their gender. For the female dogs, they may have changes in appetite, may appear anxious than normal, and will experience a vaginal discharge of blood. You may not see it happening in an instant, but by the time and as weeks go by, you will realize that your puppy becomes a dog. Usually, the signs are, they listen attentively and responds to you and the other dogs from social cues, they can read if you are angry or happy to them, and they can easily settle down. So watch out for these signs. When he stops growing When your golden retriever has fully grown both physically and emotionally, this is definitely the obvious sign that your dog turned into a full-grown adult dog. This happens when your dog is already 1 to 3 years of age. This is the time where your dog will be needing an adequate source of protein-based nutritional needs such as whole meat mainly with first meat as their main ingredients when buying an adult dog food. Also, you may want to match their type of activity to the dog food you are considering. A general guide for feeding the golden puppy and adult Puppies who are in their first months will develop a built-in timer. This prompts him to eat based on schedule because they are a creature of habit. You should give your golden puppy at least three times a day of meals for the first three months. Prior to that, by the time he reaches four months, feed him at least twice a day permanently. Puppies ages 12 months more or less The above mentioned is the general rule. Yet, there are different cases of how puppies grow depending on their breed size. For golden retrievers, they belong to a medium-sized breed. Their age of maturity will hit by the time they are 9 months of age. While large breeds will hit their maturity when they are 18 to 24 months of age. Transitioning from puppy food to dog food golden retriever After you are completely aware and decided to shift your dog from puppy food to dog food. But be very careful to suddenly give your dog food. The key is to slowly introduce your puppy from puppy food to dog food. Let your golden retriever taste the dog food slowly so that he can get accustomed to the taste of the dog food. Normally this transition process will take about 7 to 14 days. That said, you can start the transition period by giving 75 percent of puppy food and a 25 percent adult food formula for at least 2 to 3 days. After the succeeding days, you can try increasing the adult dog food ratio to 10 percent until it becomes percent adult dog food. As a result, within 10 to 14 days, your golden retriever will somehow liken the adult dog food. If not, you can just go slower with the kibble food ratio until your dog is fully satisfied with the taste. This is among the important process during their transition period. One of the best and appropriate dog food for your golden retriever is this particular Royal Canin. Because it's breed-specific. That said, its nutritional value is specifically curated for a specific type of breed. This is to ensure that what you are getting meets the standard diet of your Golden. There's more than that, this particular dog food has a heart-healthy recipe. And because golden retrievers are vulnerable to heart problems, this will help them prevent any heart disease. Added the fact that it's also made to reinforce the skin of the dog. One of the main ingredients includes Brewers rice, brown rice, chicken by-product, oat greats. It's also packed with adequate vitamins like taurine and DHA for strong vision and helps cognitive ability. All the more, each kibble has a different design and even shape and size which is suited for the dog's jaw structure and biting patterns. This is well suited for a golden retriever because of specific nutrients and dietary needs added. Also, it supports some of the most health problems that the golden retriever commonly faces. So, this is actually worth buying for. Pros Specifically designed for golden retrievers Unique shape and sizes Grain-free. The general rule is to switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food once they reach physical maturity. For Golden Retrievers this is between the age of 12 to 18 months. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and need to stay on puppy food until they stop growing. Switching too early can have a negative effect on the growth and development of your pup. Golden Retrievers are considered a large breed and reach their physical maturity much later than small breeds do. All dogs differ as to when they reach maturity, which is why there is no one size fits all answer to this question. Can switch to adult food at 9 to 12 months. Medium Breeds: 20 to 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 14 months. Large and Giant Breeds: Weigh more than 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 24 months. He will continue to fill out until the age of 2 when he reaches his adult weight. Keeping your Golden Retriever pup on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months is a good guideline to follow. But, there are other ways to tell if your Golden is ready to make the transition. Here are some other signs that will let you know your pup is ready for adult food: Skipping Meals or Leftover Food Puppy food is designed specifically for growing puppies. It is higher in fat, calories, protein and nutrients to help support growth and development. Once your puppy reaches adulthood, he no longer needs as many calories. You may notice that your puppy is skipping meals or leaving food in his food bowl because he is still full. This is a good indication that your puppy is ready to make the switch. Puppies typically eat 3 meals a day, when you make the switch to adult food, you can also reduce the number of meals per day down to 2. Decreased Activity Level We all know that puppies have a ton of energy, and Golden Retriever puppies seem to have even more! But, with age comes a decrease in activity level. Once your puppy starts to mature, you will notice they also start to calm down. Weight Gain Once your Golden Retriever puppy is fully grown, they no longer need high-calorie food. If you continue feeding puppy food to your adult Golden Retriever, you may notice excessive weight gain. Weight gain is a clear indication that your Golden Retriever is past the puberty stage and is ready to switch to adult food. The transition to adult food is important, as puppy food can quickly pack on the pounds. Weight gain is usually seen in Golden Retrievers who are spayed or neutered because owners continue feeding them the same amount of food as before. The age of spay or neuter lines up to around the time your Golden Retriever should transition to adult food, which is when they are finished growing. Puppies require a higher amount of calories, protein, nutrients and fats in order to fuel their growth. While puppies need the proper food to grow and develop, adult Golden Retrievers require food to maintain their bodies. Puppy food is: Smaller in size, making it safer to chew and swallow. Softer in texture, catering to the softer and smaller teeth of a puppy. Contains nutrients and fats essential for bone growth, muscle development, and energy. Carefully balanced for growing puppies. Feeding properly balanced puppy food is important, and large breeds like Golden Retrievers benefit from specially formulated large-breed puppy food. Most vets and nutritionists consider a pup a large breed if they weigh between 55 to Lbs when fully grown. Large breed puppy food is lower in fat and calories than regular puppy food, and it has a carefully balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus. This allows for slow and steady growth, supporting joints and bones. For more information on large breed puppy food, check out this article from PetMD. Different quantities and ratios of nutrients are ideal for different life stages. Keeping your adult Golden Retriever on puppy food can lead to obesity and other health issues such as faster growth, which can lead to hip and elbow dysplasia. Puppy food is too rich and dense in nutrients which not only causes significant weight gain in adults but could result in stomach upset and diarrhea. It could also lead to an overdose of vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food contains nutrients that are suited for dogs who are passed their growth stage. Adult Golden Retrievers need food that helps them maintain their optimal health and weight. The switch to adult food needs to be gradual, over a period of 7 to 10 days. This will prevent any stomach upset in your pup. Basically, the best way to transition your puppy to adult food is to buy a bag of adult food when you purchase the last bag of puppy food. Gradually mix the two foods together, increasing the amount of new food over a period of 7 to 10 days. By day 9 or 10 your Golden Retriever should be eating his new adult food. If at any time during the transition period your Golden Retriever experiences an upset stomach or diarrhea, or simply resists the adult food, you can extend the transition time as needed. Final Thoughts So, as you can see there is a right time and a wrong time when you should switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food. Golden Retrievers grow and mature at a slower pace than smaller breeds do, and require the essential nutrients found in puppy food for much longer. It is recommended to keep your Golden Retriever puppy on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months. You want to gradually introduce the new food in order to avoid any stomach upset. Is your Golden Retriever puppy ready for adult food? At what age did your Golden Retriever start eating adult food? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. 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. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation.

These dogs are born from Poodles with other purebreds like pugs, Labradors, or Cocker Spaniels. Since the s, doodle dogs have increased in their popularity—and it's not a wonder why. These breeds are often low- to non-shedding, and are consider to be a safe bet for most people with allergies. Their personalities make them ideal companions for many people, too. For example, Bernedoodle dogs tend to be more stubborn but they have lower energy than a Goldendoodle. Another thing that people should look at is the generation of the doodle. Generation refers to how far removed from a purebred pairing—like a purebred Poodle and a purebred Labrador as parents. Which ones are your favorite? This has become one of the most sought-after "Doodle breeds" due to their winning combination of good looks, smart wits, and hypoallergenic coats. They also make reputable therapy pets. If you admire these gentle giant dogs for their goofy, placid personalities, then one of these pups might be for you. This tends to be a good choice for those with allergies because the poodle coat is often inherited rather than the Labrador coat—however, you can find a variety of colors depending on the parent. These dogs are intelligent, friendly, and moderately active. Friendly and caring, they usually manage to stay happy with other pets and family members. And while these dogs are sweet, they may require some training to rein in their playful personalities. They also go by the name of Wheatendoodle, the Wheatenpoo, the Sweatendoodle, and the Sweatenpoo. These are energetic dogs, but despite their high energy, they don't tend to bark much. They are a rare breed mix and may be difficult to find. This small, fluffy, high energy breed is an adorable addition to the family—especially if you are looking for a dog that's rambunctious and loves to play with the kids. The is likely to be a shaggy yet stately looking dog, with an obvious athleticism derived from its strong hunting poodle origins. Compact, feisty, and fun in spirit, what these dogs lack in size, they make up for in their personality. They are on their best behavior in the company of their owners, as they tend to bark or dig when left alone at home. Incredibly smart, energetic, and loyal, these pups have a work-hard, play-hard mindset that best suits someone with an active lifestyle. These are big, lovable dogs that are incredibly smart and equally stubborn. But while training them takes additional patience, the reward of their loyalty and devotion is well worth it. These dogs are charming, funny, and smart, and their alert nature—thanks to that double dose of working-breed attentiveness—makes them excellent watchdogs. These dogs are friendly and affectionate little comedians with a sweet temperament and a zest for life. It's also believed to be the oldest of the designer dog breeds in America, dating back to the s. It's also commonly known as the Havadoodle or Havanoodle—their intelligent and playful personalities make them a total joy for the whole family. And if you want a calm, sweet dog with lots of love to give, then this mix fits the bill. But calm doesn't mean small. They can grow to be as big as pounds. Because of their eager-to-please personalities, they tend to be protective of their families. This dog may have the curly coat of a Poodle or the long, straight coat of a Shih Tzu, but he always has a cute, alert expression and a sturdy body. When it comes to big breeds, this mix wins the prize—weighing anywhere between 70 to pounds. These dogs are fun-loving, affectionate family companions that need lots of room to run around and plenty of food to meet their nutritional needs. Petite and curly-coated, this is a delightful mix that is likable in personality, if not a little feisty at times. They tend to be vocal if alerted to something, and so they make good little watchdogs. Was this page helpful? There are more than 40 types of poodle mixes to choose from, and each comes with a unique set of traits to love. While some of these names may sound like they belong on the pages of a Dr. Seuss book, these furry friends are sure to make an excellent addition to your family. Here are some of the most popular dog breeds mixed with a poodle to consider if you're considering adopting a dog. No matter your decision, all these four-legged, furry friends are sure to put a smile on your face. Goldendoodles are known to be great family companions and are highly intelligent. As a result, they're usually easy to train but have enough energy to keep up with an active family. Some Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic, which may help family members with allergy issues. They're adorable and will get a lot of attention from anyone who sees it. Yorkiepoos are typically sweet, playful, and intelligent. Their diminutive stature makes them a perfect fit for apartment or condo living. However, because they're small, they often do better in a home with older children or adults who know how to handle them with care. Like other smaller dogs, the Yorkiepoo can tend to bark excessively without proper training, so be proactive to curb this behavior. If you love the gentle, sweet nature of Bernese Mountain dogs but are overwhelmed by their large size, a Bernedoodle might be the perfect compromise. While poodles can be energetic, Bernenoodles tend to be a little more content to cozy up on the couch, thanks to their Bernese mountain dog traits. Many Labradoodles have a poodle's coat and shed less than purebred labs, though coat style and color can vary. Labradoodles love company and are happy to be a part of the family. Whoodles are typically medium-sized and filled with energy, so they will not enjoy being couch potatoes. Though they mean no harm, Whoodles want to chase smaller animals, so they'll fare best in a home without cats, rabbits, or other small creatures. Pomapoos tend to be small but have big personalities and are highly affectionate. They love their families so much that they can face separation anxiety if left alone for too long. They train easily and usually get along well with kids and other pets. You may also hear them called a Sheepapoo or Sheepdogpoo. They tend to be intelligent and friendly and usually get along well with other dogs. Because of their herding background, they may play rough with smaller animals or little kids, so be mindful of your family's makeup before adding a Sheepadoodle to your brood. These dogs are intelligent and easy to train, with plenty of energy to burn. They may be territorial over their home and family, so don't be surprised if they bark for a few minutes when visitors come by. However, they're ultra-sweet once they're comfortable with you. Cockapoos were among the first popular "designer dogs" and have been highly in demand for decades. They make cheerful family companions. Though they're beautiful dogs, cockapoos tend to require a reasonably intensive grooming routine, which may not fit families already pressed for time. These pups tend to have a "pack" mentality, which means they'll love participating in family activities. Cavapoos typically don't shed much and skew on the smaller size. They're usually gentle, friendly, and love to cuddle. This pup, a blend of Bichon Frise and poodle, is sure to steal the hearts of everyone in your family. If you're looking for a furry best friend that loves to cuddle, a Poochon is a perfect pick. Just be sure to work on barking when your dog is young to prevent them from becoming a loudmouth as they age. Though they're diminutive in stature, Maltipoos have highly expressive faces. They're incredibly affectionate and make great companions, but their excessive love for their family can spur some separation anxiety. They're not ideal pets if you work long hours outside the home. These dogs are intelligent and sweet-natured. Schnoodles are a blend of two working dogs, which means you'll get an attentive, alert pup that can make an excellent watchdog. Chipoos love to play and cuddle. They tend to be protective over their family and home, so even though they're tiny and not very intimidating, their "hey, what's this person doing here? These little guys and girls are typically highly intelligent, energetic, and loving. Appearance varies depending on whether your dog favors his Jack Russell or poodle side, but in almost all cases, these dogs are relatively small. Jack-a-poos need plenty of exercise time, so this puppy is best suited for a family looking to engage in many games of fetch. Besides being adorable, these pups are sweet-natured and highly intelligent. Aussiedoodles have a wide variety of coat colors and textures. They're loyal companions eager to please, making them a great addition to your family. These striking pups make loving, calm family pets. But, as you might imagine, their Pyrenees side means that Pyredoodles aren't exactly pocket pups. They can weigh up to pounds when they're fully grown. This type of dog probably isn't a fit if you live in a small apartment. Depending on your particular pup, these darling dogs may have the curly coat of a poodle or the straight, soft hair of a Shih Tzu. Either way, they make perky, playful companions. They love attention and are more than content cuddling with their humans on the couch. Frequently Asked Questions Which poodle mix is the calmest? Among larger doodles, the bernedoodle and goldendoodle have a reputation for being calm, while the maltipoo and cavapoo are considered calm toy mixes. Choose a poodle crossed with a laid-back breed to increase the chances you'll get a calm dog. Which poodle mix does not shed? Poodles aren't shedders, which is one reason why poodle mixes are so popular. A poodle mix with another breed that isn't a shedder is more likely to be a no-shed dog. 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If you click on a link and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. However, when I got my Golden Retriever puppy, I was surprised at how crazy he was. Golden Retrievers are a highly active and playful dog breed. As puppies, these qualities are intensified due to their fast metabolisms, youthful exuberance, and curiosity about the world around them. As a result, their boundless energy can border on hyperactivity, making them seem crazy to us. As a breed, the Golden Retriever is part of the sporting group of dogs, and they require a high level of activity. While there are differences among dogs they are individuals, of course , a high activity level is a common trait in the Golden Retriever breed. In puppies, that activity level is on steroids. In other words, they can and probably will act crazy. This article will look at why that is, how long it lasts, and why it seems to get significantly worse at night or what I call the witching hour. If I was a mad scientist in a lab and I had to make a crazy puppy, I would go about it in this way. I would make a highly active dog that requires a lot of physical exercise. The dog would be eager to please and learn, enjoy being with its owners, and bond closely with them. I would give it a high level of intelligence, requiring the dog to need a lot of mental stimulation. Of course, the dog would also be eager to please and learn and require a lot of attention. As sporting dogs, they would require lots of endurance to assist their human companions for hours on end, retrieving and chasing game birds. Tada, that puppy already exists. It is the Golden Retriever puppy, and it is why their dizzying hyperactivity is often seen as crazy! So, in essence, the qualities of the Golden Retriever puppy are the same qualities they have in adulthood, just magnified, which is not all that surprising. Comparatively speaking, a dog bred to be active as an adult will be more active as a puppy. It is very proportionate. Why is this? As a whole most puppies are generally more active than when they are adults — this is because puppies, as growing dogs, have faster metabolisms. And a fast metabolism means you get alternating bouts of insane energy and hyperactivity that abruptly stops, followed by a nap to recuperate. This puppyhood is not unlike a young and growing human child. So, as the owner of a Golden Retriever puppy, you have accepted that craziness is part of their puppyhood. However, after months of crazy hyperactivity, you may naturally wonder I did , how long are Golden Retriever puppies crazy for? The crazy period for Golden Retriever puppies, defined by a hyper level of activity, playfulness, and mischievousness, lasts approximately two to three years. After that time, they typically calm down somewhat. However, most will retain a high level of activity and playfulness well into adulthood. So, it can be good news and bad news for many pet owners. The good news is this peak crazy period lasts only two to three years, then moderates after that. Now, two to three years can be a long time for many pet owners, and as far as dog breeds go, that is a long puppyhood. Longer than most dog breeds. But, while the craziness of puppyhood may moderate after two to three years, most Golden Retrievers retain a high level of puppyhood well into adulthood, much more so than most breeds of dogs. As well, Golden Retrievers were bred to be highly active dogs. Their sporting dogs, after all. And that means even in adulthood; the Golden Retriever will still require a high level of physical activity. They are also one of the most intelligent dogs, requiring a high level of mental stimulation throughout their lives. What does all of this mean, then? Now the bad. Suppose you are ill-equipped or prepared to give your Golden Retriever adequate amounts of physical exercise and mental stimulation. In that case, you may have a crazy Golden Retriever puppy and adult on your hands for many years. Golden Retrievers need high activity and mental stimulation to satisfy their physical and mental needs, whether puppies or adults. Not doing so will typically cause a bored dog to direct that excess mental and physical energy into undesirable behaviors. So the key takeaway is this, it is critical always to ensure that the dog you get fits your lifestyle, especially with active dogs like the Golden Retriever. To this day, my 1. That time is the early evening or night, and during this time, his energy peaks, and he often goes crazy. It is something to behold, and many guests have asked me why Golden Retriever puppies go crazy at night. Golden Retriever puppies often go crazy at night because dogs are naturally most active during the morning and early evening. Lack of physical and mental stimulation during the day may intensify this excess evening energy. Either way, the puppy is expending its energy reserves before settling down for the night. Most Golden Retriever puppies will have an additional burst of energy during the early evening from about pm to pm. Outside or inside , the puppy may get infected with the zoomies and sprint at top speed, with his ears down, and do circles around the yard or house. If you have other pets, such as a cat, this may be the time it also pesters it to play. If the puppy is teething, be prepared to have your hands chewed on, or it may attack your furniture. Sometimes they will find makeshift toys and drop them in our laps, trying to elicit a game of tug. And, the cause of this often hilarious, often exhausting, crazy energy? A few reasons. The first reason we discussed earlier. Golden Retrievers were bred to be highly active dogs. As sporting dogs, they would assist hunters for hours by retrieving downed waterfowl. Additionally, dogs are more active in puppyhood. They have faster metabolisms, youthful exuberance, and are curious. If a dog was bred to be active as an adult, as in the case of the Golden Retriever, then expect them to be even more active as puppies. Golden Retriever adults are very active. So, as puppies, they are insanely vibrant. Dogs are naturally more active in the morning and early evenings. So, the night and afternoons are usually sleep and nap times, and the puppy wakes with plenty of energy — this is normal. Next is a common reason and probably the biggest reason for their craziness at night — not enough play, exercise, and training throughout the day. Yup, if not exercised and stimulated enough during the day, your Golden Retriever puppy will still have massive energy reserves. To make matters worse, if the puppy napped a lot during the day because you were gone, it may be rested, bored, lonely, and even more full of zest come evening. Before settling down to sleep at night, it needs to rid itself of that energy. So cue the zoomies and craziness. Lastly, your Golden Retriever puppy may want attention. Of course, seeking your attention is expected if you work all day because your little furball missed you. Suppose you have a crazy Golden Retriever puppy. In that case, I guarantee the next question will be, what can I do to make my Golden Retriever puppy less crazy? To make a Golden Retriever puppy less crazy and calmer, you need to burn off its excess energy and mentally stimulate the puppy. This can be done through physical exercise, playing games with the puppy, and short but formal training sessions. Because Golden Retrievers, by nature and breeding, are highly active, super-intelligent, and very playful, they need their minds and bodies stimulated. Golden Retrievers were also bred to work closely with people, so they are social animals. Physical exercise, play, training, and mental stimulation help satisfy those needs. Physical Exercise Golden Retriever puppies need to be exercised daily. Walking is an excellent exercise, and training them to walk politely on a leash can never start too young. If your puppy has not had its final vaccinations yet, you can still walk it in the backyard or house. So, how much exercise should your Golden Retriever puppy have daily? It should be five minutes x its age in months x twice per day. However, beware that it may be on the low side, and your Golden Retriever may need more. At three months of age, 30 minutes of exercise was not nearly enough for our Golden Retriever Bailey. Typically, 60 minutes is what he needed, plus multiple play sessions, training, and mental games. As a result, play is an excellent form of mental stimulation for your puppy and provides a bonding opportunity. Remember, Golden Retrievers are social dogs, and play helps give them the attention they need from their owners. For Golden Retriever puppies, fetch and tug of war are great games. It is what they were born to do. Bailey loves fetch and tug of war Tug of war is also a great game and provides the dog with physical and mental stimulation. Chase is fun for your puppy, as is hide and seek. Or you can start training your puppy to use its nose for tracking. Training Training your Golden Retriever puppy can start early. In fact, it should. Training provides mental stimulation, attention, and social interaction. Training also lays the foundation for impulse control and good manners. Training is like a formal education for your puppy. Similar to how studying can tax your brain and tire you out, the same is true for puppies. Training requires your puppy to problem solve and work on impulse control. Those mental feats take mental energy. And invoking that mental energy through training helps expel more energy. Or when you are engaged in activities that require it to be calm and out of the way, such as cooking. Bailey is working on his down-stay skill at distance and duration. Golden Retrievers love training. They enjoy interacting and pleasing you, it is fun for them, and they want to earn rewards. And, training does not need to take up a big part of your day. Two five-minute sessions will work wonders. Mental Stimulation While training is mentally stimulating to your Golden Retriever, you should also include activities that are specifically geared towards brainwork. Brainwork can consist of games such as puzzles, scent work, or teaching your dog tricks. Although some of these activities require training, their purpose is to stimulate the dog mentally. Whereas training is usually done to get the desired action from our dogs to make them well-behaved canine citizens, mental activities are meant to make them problem solve and use the grey matter between their floppy ears. Include some scent work for your dog. The more intelligent the dog, the more mental stimulation it needs for it to tire. To learn more about the fantastic scent work abilities of the Golden Retriever check out these posts:. Are Golden Retrievers Hyper Dogs? The reason is due to their history as working dogs. Golden Retrievers love to get attention, play all day, go on adventures, and more, but this level of energy could get out of hand especially for new owners if it remains unchecked. The longer your Golden goes without any playtime, the more they become anxious and let out their energy in other ways, like chewing on things, and jumping on unsuspecting family members. So, it is advisable to keep your Golden outside playing, walking, or interacting with other dogs, for as long as possible to let them get it all out of their system. To help subdue these behaviors, make sure to give your golden attention throughout the day, not just when they act out. This will help because instead of associating their bad behavior with your affection, they will instead not have to act out for you to pay attention to them. Most Golden Retrievers are high energy, but that is not to say that every single one will be. There are several in the mix who prefer to be calm, cuddly, lap companions, especially in their older age or if you have a female Golden. Female Golden Retrievers mature faster than their male counterparts, so they grow out of their puppy phase faster. Most Golden Retriever puppies will be very high energy and require a lot of affection from their owner. This is a great question for new owners or even some seasoned Golden Retriever owners who may have had a Golden with a slightly different personality. A Golden Retriever dog breed has hard work and outdoor activities running through their veins, they have a free spirit and love to explore. They were bred to be hunting, and working dogs, so many generations have accumulated one fluffy, domesticated, ball of energy! Age: Oh, the Golden Puppy Stage! Age is a major contributing factor when it comes to why your Golden Retriever is so hyper. They are developing social constructs, getting used to their surroundings, and just like children, they love to play. Due to their historic disposition of outdoor activities, this dog loves to be outside in a big yard playing with children or other dogs. This lets them run off all of that energy while also building interactions with others. Golden Retrievers are were bred to be active, outgoing dogs Golden Retrievers Are Hyper by Nature They were bred as working dogs, meaning they have a genetic predisposition for more stamina and energy than some other dog breeds. They were primarily used as companions in midth Scotland to hunt waterfowl, and track downed birds during hunting. This history means that the Golden Retriever was bred to keep up with birds being tracked in the water and on land over many miles. This sporting breed has always been high energy and ready to please. Lack of Exercise can cause excessive hyperactivity in Goldens Just how we humans can get cabin fever and want to go outside and do something to alleviate the mundanity, dogs are the same way. The best way to combat this is to get them some exercise, at least 30 minutes a day is usually sufficient for this breed. Lack of Attention As I mentioned previously, your dog may be acting out because they want to get your attention. Goldens are notoriously cuddly and somewhat clingy companions especially if you have a male Golden Retriever , and they want all of the affection you can spare to them. If you have not played with or snuggled your Golden pup lately, they might be feeling a little neglected, which can lead them to act out in order to get you to fixate on them. If this sounds like the case for you, then the fix for this is to dedicate a time frame at least once or twice a day to giving your dog the attention they have been craving and playing one on one with them. This will let them know your bond is still strong while letting them get out some excess energy. Golden Retrievers Get Bored Similar to the issue of the lack of exercise, Golden Retrievers get bored and act out by showing their hyperactivity. The boredom can stem from many things like a lack of attention, exercise, or not having enough stimulating activities or training. To keep your dog from feeling bored, it is best to keep up their training and introduce new games and activities for them to try. Much like children, they need to be constantly stimulated, so switching up toys, or taking them to a dog park so they can have new interactions are great ways to rectify this. These tips will give you the tools you need to keep you golden happy, healthy, and calm. Keep your Golden busy with Mental Activities Mental activities are a great stimulator for dogs and especially puppies. Mental training and games will keep your dog entertained and help to keep their attention during training exercises. At a minimum, your Golden Retriever needs at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. A Golden Retriever can play for hours on end, and they love it! Training, Training, and More Training! Training your golden is very rewarding for both you and them, and as an added bonus it helps to keep their hyperactivity to a minimum. Golden Retriever dog breed is especially intelligent and is fairly easy to train, and sometimes they just need a little help with self-control, which can be taught. Obedience training will allow you to mentally stimulate your dog while also letting them learn the proper commands and times for things. The more training you give your dog, the more well-behaved they will be and the stronger your bond will become. Give Your Attention to Your Golden Regularly The most important thing to think about when getting a Golden Retriever is to know they will require regular exercise and attention. A Golden Retriever dog breed is very playful and affectionate and needs to be loved constantly. Invest in high-quality chew treats and toys As Goldens can get bored very easily, and since they are known as strong sporting dogs, they have been known to destroy many chew toys. The best way to keep them interested and to keep you from buying new toys every few days is to invest in high-quality chew toys and treats. Do Golden Retrievers calm down after being neutered or spayed? Many owners believe that spaying or neutering their dog will help to calm them down but that is usually not the case. Neutering and spaying can result in making the dog calmer for a short period of time while they are recovering and feeling fatigued. Neutering has a slight chance of helping to correct behaviors if done while they are puppies, this is because they have not had time to learn problematic behaviors. In males, it is likely to help reduce aggression but does not guarantee an effect on hyperactivity, especially since this is a breed trait in Golden Retrievers and not just a hormonal factor. The reduced energy behavior usually comes from the effects of the surgery itself being draining rather than changing their entire demeanor. It is more effective to train your Golden Retriever and reward for calmer behaviors, as this will become a lasting standard for your Golden, rather than a short-lived reprieve due to a procedure. Will my Golden Stay Hyper Forever? Golden Retrievers are a hyper dog breed, however, like most dogs, they tend to calm down after their puppy phase, around 2 or 3 years old. Golden Retriever females of the breed tend to mature faster obedience-wise than males, so they are more likely to be calmer overall. How much they calm down is dependent on the specific dog itself, some may maintain their energy throughout their entire lives and others may taper off later in their life. Overall, when you choose a Golden Retriever to be your family dog, it is important to know the breed is known to be a hyper, attention-seeking, and very active dog. It is important that you give your Golden Retriever daily exercise, training, and affection to have the happiest and healthiest life. Related Posts:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers are such great family dogs. And they tend to have some behavior problems because of their great characteristics. Most goldens want to be near their people. And they love to be petted and get attention. They may jump, grab our hand or arm, or engage in some destructive behaviors. Many of these are normal dog behaviors that can be modified through training and exercise. Normal Dog Behaviors Versus Abnormal Behaviors Dogs naturally dig, bark, express fear in certain situations, mark territory, chase small animals, and jump. They may steal food. Or want to be with us all the time. Goldens were bred to be sociable, high-energy dogs. My rescued golden Spencer almost always had to carry something in his mouth. So I made sure there were safe toys for him to happily tote around. Unfortunately, many dogs are given up to shelters because of behaviors that can be modified. To have a great companion takes a lot of work, patience, and time. And to meet those needs. These should be dealt with by behavior specialists who can evaluate the individual dog and determine the best behavior modification plan. These abnormal behaviors include aggression to those around the dog, obsessive-compulsive disorders, shutting down, and severe separation anxiety. Why Behavior Problems Develop There is no one reason why some behavior problems occur. Unfortunately, goldens are so popular—the third-popular breed ranked by the American Kennel Club—they are often poorly bred. There are too many back-yard and puppy mill dogs who are more likely to not be the examples of what the breed should be. Jumping on People Golden retrievers usually love everyone and never met a stranger. Goldens are the greeting committee of the dog world. Many dogs want to jump on people when greeting them. The golden can, of course, unintentionally injure someone, knocking them over in his exuberant greeting. Engaging in Destructive Behavior In addition to friendliness, goldens were bred to hunt. They have energy to spare. And they were bred to retrieve and have something in their mouths. They may dig up the garden. Or chew up our furniture. Or they may steal the food on the counter. And the food they eat may be toxic, such as chocolate or raisins. Or they may get a blockage from ingesting a towel or sock. A bored, under-exercised golden can get very creative in meeting his needs. They often need to have something in their mouths. That is, he may constantly try to hold our clothes, arm, or hand in his mouth. Biting is a natural canine behavior. But puppies should be taught bite-inhibition. And it can be dangerous. Someone can be badly bruised or even pulled down. Pulling on the Leash Goldens love to go places and greet all their new admirers. But they want to get there sooner rather than later. Many dogs pull on a leash, but not all are as friendly as goldens are known to be. And they can be lazer-focused on getting where they want to go. Being a rather large dog, a golden pulling on a leash can injure someone. An owner can be pulled down and get injured. Or the dog himself can get free and get lost or injured—or worse. Demanding Attention Because of their natural friendliness, goldens may want to be the center of attention. They are so family-oriented, they love to be with us. Some goldens may bark at you for attention. They may nudge you and grab your arm to be recognized. Some may even engage in unwanted behaviors like taking something off the table. Even negative attention is attention. Hyperactivity Some goldens seemingly bounce off the walls. They are like a hurricane passing through the living room. Tables are cleared of bric a brac. Pillows are shredded and on the floor. But your happy golden is furiously wagging his tail, looking for the next item he can use to help expel his excess energy. Separation Anxiety Because of their innate friendly, family-oriented behavior, goldens may suffer from separation anxiety at a higher rate than some other breeds. Their need to be with us can lead to some unwanted behaviors. Dogs with mild separation anxiety may drool, pace, whine, and generally behave in a distressed manner. Dogs with severe separation anxiety may become very destructive. They may try to get out of doors and windows, feverishly digging at door and window frames. They may even severely harm themselves in their attempts to get free. Dogs with separation anxiety may need professional behavioral help. We owe it to our goldens to do all that we can do to meet their natural needs. A bored, untrained, under-exercised, unsupervised golden is going to develop some problem behaviors. Some of the tips below will even help your golden from developing any of the potential problems cited above. I wrote the ways to help fix a problem separately from the problems because it will probably take more than one item to successfully change an unwanted behavior. All of the favorable interactions we have with our goldens also help further our bond with them. Physical Exercise Goldens were bred to hunt. They are highly-energetic dogs. Walks, fetching, jogging, agility, and swimming can all be great ways to physically exercise your golden. A vet check-up is advisable prior to starting any exercise program. Physical exercise can help decrease or eliminate the above-named problems. Of course, you want to exercise your dog enough but not over-tire them. Dogs who have been sufficiently exercised are less likely to jump or engage in destructive activities such as digging or chewing. Also, dogs who are exercised and calm before we leave are less likely to develop separation anxiety. Obedience Training Obedience training helps us communicate with our dogs and informs them what behaviors are desired. So we can teach them to sit before they receive attention. Or to lie down next to us and settle. And we can show him what toys he can put in his mouth rather than destroying items or turning us into his chew toy. Redirection works. And we can teach them to not pull on a leash and to walk on a loose leash. Part of the training should include how to leave your dog alone. This will help prevent separation anxiety from developing. Start with short sessions. Make leaving a happy opportunity—when great things appear. Leave a frozen, stuffed Extreme Kong with him as you leave. If your dog has already shown signs of separation distress, get the help of a qualified behavior specialists. As far as your golden inappropriately seeking attention is concerned, you can ignore your dog. Turn away or get up and leave. But do give him the attention he needs on your terms by calling him over to you occasionally. Pet him. Have him do a command or trick. Praise, pet, and treat. You should also play games with him. Teach him to tug a toy like a rope or long fleece to and give. You can have him play fetch. You can play hide-and-seek where you go and hide and call him to you. Make a big deal when he reaches you YES! Good boy! And not at all with a dog who has separation anxiety. But, to goldens, this is what they often enjoy most. Everyone is a potential friend. Goldens will thrive if they are fed the same times each day, are exercised as needed routinely, and receive attention from their people every day. No dog should be just put aside like a statue. Goldens especially need attention through positive daily interactions—play, training, exercise. If ignored, their sweet, golden personality will wilt. Final Thoughts Golden retrievers are such happy, affable, family dogs. But they are prone more than some breeds to certain problem behaviors because of their genetic purpose to retrieve and their desire to be with people. By doing so, their lives—as well as ours—will be full and happy. Does your golden engage in any unwanted behaviors? How have you handled them? Please tell us about it in the comment section below. Related Article:.

Call Vic or Mary Kasser or Email! We are Located south of Vancouver Washington. Travel From Vancouver Oregon is all I-5, except for the last 2. We are a Professional Kennel deeply committed to our dogs and puppies. We have placed our French Bulldog puppies and chihuahua adults with individuals and families in Vancouver, Washington from all walks of life and multiple generations. Our Vancouver, Washington Puppy Families recognize that there is a better way to choose and purchase a French Bulldog puppy. Our French Bulldog puppies are given a wonderful start in life that provides them with the love, socialization and training they need to become ideal pets for families in Vancouver, Washington. We also believe that nutrition is an essential component of raising healthy, well-mannered dogs. For this reason, all of our dogs are fed food and supplements that are free of wheat, corn and gluten's and are optimized for canine nutrition. Furthermore, all French Bulldogs under our care receive regular exercise, play, and affection. We invite you to check out the rest of our website and see for yourself how beautiful, healthy and happy our Vancouver, Washington French Bulldog puppies are! Among our pages, you will find a virtual tour of our clean, spacious and well-kept kennel and state of the art nursery. We are more than happy to provide references - in fact we insist. Our references include not only folks that have purchased French Bulldog puppies from us, but also our Veterinary and County Licensing info. Checking references is an important part of your homework on any breeder you are considering purchasing from! After you've looked over our website, give us a call and let us help you with your quest to find the perfect Vancouver, Washington French Bulldog companion. We are located in Drain, Oregon. We where blessed with 6 males and 3 females. The puppies are Now ready for their new homes. Your puppy comes home with the following. Their mom teaches them manners, confidence and boundaries. Check out our past puppy videos and pictures. One of my favorite childhood memories was puppies. We had several litters growing up. Our love affair with Frenchies started with Liz. She was sweet, energetic, loving and very entertaining. One of the things I love about this breed is that they love the whole family and not just one person. They love to cuddle. Dressing them up is easy and fun. French Bulldogs love people so they are great if you take them to work or to Grandma's for Thanksgiving. We have a farm located on 20 acres in Spirit Lake, Idaho. Paisley The American Kennel Club describes French Bulldogs as "an active, intelligent, muscular dog, with a smooth coat, compact medium build,they are expressive, alert, and curious. They are the 1 most popular AKC ranking dog as of .What Is A French Bulldog? The French Bulldog is a small breed of domestic dog. In , they were the fourth most popular registered dog in the United Kingdom and in the U. French Bulldogs originated from England, France. The first French Bulldogs were brought to America in by wealthy Society ladies. We consider them to be family so we play with the puppies and take them on a few car rides as well. They enjoy playing outdoors when the weather is warm. We are not a kennel. Our goal is to breed Quality, Beautiful, well socialized puppies. Embark test for over different diseases. All of Our French Bulldogs have been tested as well as our puppies. Mans best friend truly is a French Bulldog. Cuddled up next to you on your bed under the covers snoring softly while hogging your pillows. Copiloting around town with you drinking doggy Cappuccino. Every day is an adventure with frenchies Want to be on our waiting list? You can also contact us on the form below. Past Puppies Have you checked out the puppy page? We have lots pictures, videos, and information. Questions we have contact form below. Fill out my online form. We produce all of the brindles in black, blue, chocolate, lilac , fawns and sables in golden, red, blue, chocolate, lilac , creams, pure coats and tan points in black, blue, chocolate, lilac , and pieds in ALL of these beautiful colors! Call Us Are you ready to own the most popular dog breed in the U. We appreciate you visiting our site, whether you have been here many times in the past, or if this is the first time you have paid us a visit. We hope that the time you spend with us will be enjoyable, and that you will feel it is worth your time and effort. Of course, we invite you to come back as often as time permits, as we have provided a lot of information regarding the French Bulldog, and we doubt if you will cover everything in one visit. Under Owner Information, you will find a lot of information to help you determine if the French Bulldog is the breed for you. There are also FAQs for New Owners, if you have made the decision to adopt one of these wonderful dogs. Under Owner Info, you will also find several products that we use and highly endorse. We then have the unpleasant talk about scammers, who are rampant in the puppy arena, especially regarding French Bulldog puppies. If you see a deal that sounds too good to be true, there is a .It breaks our hearts every time we are contacted by someone who has been scammed, or nearly scammed. Please be careful. Lastly, under Owner Info, you will find information regarding our contract and our guarantee, which we believe is one of the best available, and it is the least we will do in the unlikely event that there is a problem with one of our dogs. Under Our Frenchies, you will find information regarding our breeding males, our females which have puppies on the ground, and retirees that are ready for their forever homes. We are very proud of the breeding male and females we have assembled. You can click on Former Puppies and scroll down to see a few examples of all of the various colors that Frenchies come in that we have produced in the past. We know that the different colors can be a bit confusing, so we have tried to make it as straight forward as possible. The only problem is that there are so many gorgeous colors that they come in, a decision regarding color preferences can be difficult .Also, under Our Frenchies, you can click on New Puppies to see all of our currently available puppies, along with a list of the litters that are born, but not yet introduced. We have placed multiple puppies in every state of the union except Hawaii, as they have a very long quarantine period. We have been using very responsible puppy nannies for years to deliver puppies to major airports all over the country, for very reasonable rates. We would love to work with you to place the perfect little Frenchie in your home. Some of our puppies, especially very specific requests, are placed with clients on our waiting list, but many are available to potential clients that are looking for puppies right away. If you are looking for a high-quality Frenchie puppy, please contact us and we will send information which will help you determine if we might be the breeder for you. We will do our best to help you adopt the Frenchie of your dreams. We do not post earlier videos. All of the puppies shown in the videos will have had their vet checks and will be available for adoption with the exception of a few that we may belatedly decide to hold back. Generally, those that we will be holding back will not be included in the videos. As a reminder to each of our Waiting List clients who have passed on prior puppies due to poor timing, when you are ready for your puppy, please let us know so we do not bypass your name when we are placing new litters. Meeting the puppy Nanny was easy and smooth at the airport! Hank was love at first sight. Happy Holidays! Just thought I would write to give you an update on our Dieter. Thank you again for doing what you do, and raising such amazing dogs! Dieter is loved by all who meet him, and he has met several people on his adventures this year. He is such a mischievous, but entertaining boy. He is the sweetest, craziest, cutest, cuddliest, puppy! Hi everyone! Just wanted to give you guys an update on Hank Mowgli. He is the center of every minute in my girls day. There were tears of joy and excitement — it was wonderful! Night went well — I had my hand in her kennel so she could sleep — she would make sure it was there and then fall back to […] Danielle, Rich and Rowan Hi BlueHaven!! Hope all is well! Rich and I would like to thank you for the care and love you put into your breeding program. Rowan is a healthy and fun-loving Frenchie! We hope all is well in your neck of the woods. All is well here. Originally, when we listed our preferred colors, we did not select brindle, but as you can see, once we saw GiGi, […] Catherine, Nick, Kolbie, Natty, and Dieter Dieter had an awesome first night. Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving! Just wanted to send an update on Pearl formerly Sinah. At nearly 4 months old now; Pearl is doing very, very well. She had her 3rd series of shots and vet check last week and is perfectly healthy.

It has been carefully formulated with all natural ingredients to provide wholesome nutrition and contains no artificial colours or flavours, no dairy, no soya and no added wheat. Harringtons provides the conventional benefits associated with premium pet foods. These tasty meals will delight your dog and provide a healthy diet. All have been carefully formulated to provide wholesome grain free nutrition and contains no artificial colours or flavours, no dairy, no soya and no added wheat. Puppy recipes have been developed to ensure the best start in life, with all the vitamins and minerals needed for bouncing energy and healthy growth, and help support immunity. Complete and Balanced: meals rich in all the nutrients your dog needs. No Nasties: no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. Grain Free: naturally gluten free - no grains or bulkers. Healthy Growth: calcium for bones and high quality proteins for muscle growth. Beneficial Oils: Omega 3 and 6 - helps support your puppy's natural immunity. British and Irish Farmed: we only work with suppliers we know and trust. A Wholesome Bowlful: we believe nothing is better for your dog than nature's most nourishing food. We carefully prepare all our meals right here in the heart of England with natural ingredients from British and Irish farms and only use suppliers we know and trust, to make delicious and nourishing food for dogs. Made with natural ingredients. High in tasty meaty proteins. No cereal or soya fillers. All the vitamins and minerals your dog needs. No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. All natural meaty goodness with added vitamins and minerals, for great tasting, complete and balanced recipes every meal time. It's fun being as fit as a Butcher's dog. Suitable for home use as well as for working dogs. Main features: Reflective edges and chest strap: One of the most important functions of the IDC-Powerharness is that it works well as a visibility vest too. The grey line on the chest strap and the edges of the harness are made of reflective materials to help keep your dog visible even from a great distance, when out walking in the dark. Scientifically proven comfort: a chest strap leaving the neck of the dog free. Heavy-duty buckles: The high-quality buckles of the IDC-Powerharnesses are thoroughly tested and checked. The buckles work perfectly during wintertime, and do not break even in frosty weather. Closable handle: With the new handle fixing option, you can fix only the steel ring, only the handle, both of them or none of them. With these you can minimize the dog's chance of being stuck. It's really important especially for hunting dogs, search- and rescue dogs. Side bag attachment option: Side bags are available in 3L and 4L versions for Powerharness sizes 0 to 4. A smaller IDC Universal side bag is also available. With its cm3 capacity, it is ideal for carrying documents, vaccination papers, cellphones and dog treats. Flashlight holder: The flashlight holder is made of an elastic, high quality German material, so it can hold various sizes of flashlights. It can be used simultaneously with the side bags. It is essential for search and rescue dogs and service dogs working at night. Water repellent cover: Developed to be water resistant, highly durable, comfortable and secure, the IDC-Powerharness is the dog harness of choice for professional trainers, security personal and pet owners alike. Since ! Recommended by dog trainers, veterinarians, search and rescue and working dog organizations for 10 years now. If you've been looking for premium natural dog treats that won't break the bank then your search is over! A delicious range of flavours, shapes and textures, without any artificial colours. Great for training aids or just as a reward to make their day a happy one. Baltic dried sprats for dogs are high in healthy fish oils like Omega 3. Pork is the only ingredient making it a perfect pet safe alternative for a good boy or girl. Be extra cautious with online transactions! We encourage you to read these guidelines before buying or adopting a dog. Have you done your research? Carry out the research so you have the necessary knowledge of the pet you are getting. Since owning a dog is a big commitment, you should research about the breed fully to make sure it fits your current lifestyle and budget. Have you seen the puppy? Take time to visit the advertiser's home to confirm if they are genuine. Do not settle for online communications and photos. UK Pets does not verify the authenticity of all advertisers. The advertiser should allow you to personally see the puppies with the puppies' mother. If they keep on giving you excuses why you could not visit their home or the address stated in the advert is not the accurate and permanent location of the pet, consider this a red flag. Avoid online payment Never pay anything online through money transfer companies especially if you have not personally visited the advertiser and seen the puppy, this includes deposit and delivery cost for the puppy. There is also no means to recover your money if issues arise. Before closing a deal, you must have signed a well-defined contract. Responsible Advertiser The advertiser should only release the puppies when they are 8 weeks old or older. They should be responsible enough to know that separating the puppy from the mother earlier results in medical and behavioural issues.

They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. As such, they are recognized experts in facts and figures for many breeds of dogs. According to their data, most labrador litters contain between five and ten puppies, with the average being seven. In comparison to all dog breeds, Labradors are right in the middle. The average size of a litter of puppies, in general, is five or six dogs. The largest known litter of labradors ever recorded was 14 puppies , born to a black labrador in the United Kingdom in .Labradors are huge fans of babies as they age. Active families love a Lab! In short, probably not. Your vet can confirm pregnancy, give an estimate of how far along the pregnancy is, and give you an approximate due date. Humans and canines alike know the excitement of a first pregnancy. When it comes to labradors, this can also impact the size of the litter. Biological and evolutionary factors come into play and make first litters smaller. Expect one or two additional puppies from her first two. After the fourth pregnancy, the litter size tends to taper off. In addition to whether or not it is her first litter, the age of the mother labrador also affects the size of the litter. Generally speaking, the older the mother, the smaller the litter size. This fact is a little confusing, though, when you also consider that first litters are smaller. It means that a 3-year-old labrador will have larger litters than a 5- or 6-year-old labrador. So, if two female labradors have their third litter at ages four and six, the four-year-old labrador is likely to have the larger litter of the two. How Old is Dad? Believe it or not, the age of the father of the puppies can also impact the size of the litter. This is because of the viability of his sperm. When a female dog is in heat, her ovaries release several eggs that are ready for fertilization. However, if the male dog is older, his sperm tends to be less vigorous, meaning fewer will reach the eggs, and therefore fewer eggs will be fertilized, resulting in smaller litter size. A Labrador lounges on his dog bed Natural versus Artificial Insemination How did the mother dog become pregnant? Many labrador breeders and breeders for other types of dogs, as well prefer artificial insemination. It also takes the social interactions of the two dogs out of the equation. Some dog handlers and breeders hesitate to put their mama dogs in such a sensitive and potentially unpredictable situation. The bad news is that, while artificial insemination seems to be the more controlled and safe option, it usually yields fewer puppies. Of course, the breed of the dog is a significant factor in genetics. Does the Size of the Mom Matter? Not really. If you have a mom who is part labrador herself or is a purebred labrador but has puppies with another breed, some of these numbers and averages change. If your pregnant pooch is only part labrador, the size of her litter will also depend on what other breeds she contains. The general rule of thumb is that the larger the breed, the larger the litter. If your lab is a part German shepherd , expect a somewhat bigger litter. The breed of the father matters less, though. The breed of the father has more to do with the size of each individual puppy. Fun fact: the largest known litter of puppies ever recorded is a whopping .Unsurprisingly, the 15 male and nine female puppies were born to a Neopolitan Mastiff in , one of the most giant breeds around. Do Labs like water? Healthy dogs tend to produce larger litters. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. In a typical litter, Labrador Retrievers can have 5 to 10 puppies, depending on size, age, health, diet, and genetic diversity. How many puppies can a lab have the first time? Many Labradors will have six to eight puppies. Some may have as many as twelve or more. Some as few as one or two. Litters of ten are not at all unusual. How many babies do Labradors have? A female dog usually has 10 teats, though this does not mean she can necessarily provide sufficient nutrition for 10 puppies in one litter. An average litter consists of about five to six puppies, though this number may vary widely based on the breed of dog. Why did my lab only have 2 puppies? Dogs are polytocous, meaning they have more than two young ones each time they give birth. They have an average litter size ranging from three to seven, depending on the breed. But sometimes, it is seen that only a single or two puppies are present in a litter. This is quite rare and is called Single Puppy Syndrome. What is the best age for a Labrador to have puppies? Is the first litter of puppies the best? The best pups usually sell first, so try to set up a visit with the breeder right after the litter has been born. How much does a full breed Labrador cost? Got the money? And if you do adopt a Lab from an animal shelter or through a rescue group, you may think that the dog will be cheap — even free. How long are labs pregnant? The normal gestation period in dogs is approximately 63 days from conception, although this can vary by several days. What dog has the most puppies? The world record according to Guinness is a whopping twenty four puppies, birthed by a Neapolitan Mastiff in the UK in .Do dog breeders make good money? How much a dog breeding business can make depends on the quality of its dogs and how many litters it breeds in a year. How long should dogs wait between litters? So, the answer to this question is that the safe frequency of breeding a female dog is only every 18 months to 2 years. Why dogs eat their puppies? Lack of Recognition. An inexperienced mother dog dam may not recognize her puppies as being her own offspring. Can a lab only have 1 puppy? Can puppies be born days apart? Puppies are usually born minutes apart, but the mother dog may take a break of up to four hours between puppies. How do you know if a dog has more puppies? Panting, pacing, whimpering, and changing positions can all be signs that there are more puppies on the way. If your dog still appears restless, it means that it is not done giving birth. The dog may either stand or lie on its side to give birth. You may notice that the dog changes this position frequently. In this article How to determine your Labrador's litter size As we've said, the number of puppies inside a Labrador's belly varies greatly. Your pet can have anywhere from one to over twelve puppies. The average litter size is five to ten, but it is heavily influenced by several factors more on that later. Your veterinarian can actually help you find out exactly how many puppies there are inside a Lab's uterus. They can take X-rays of the pregnant female and count the skeletons of pups in her belly. This is an acceptable way to determine litter size in dogs. You have to wait until six weeks of pregnancy for puppies' skeletal system to develop. Ultrasound scans and abdominal palpation are other ways to estimate litter size. What is the average litter size for Labs? In , a comprehensive study was performed to answer the question of litter size in dogs. The researchers analyzed breeds and more than 10, litters, and they calculated the average litter size to be 5. However, there was a clear difference between miniature and large breeds. The former only had 3. The above research is for all dog breeds. But the AKC analyzed over 85, Labrador litters to conclude that Labs have a typical range of five to ten puppies, with an average of 7. So we can safely say that Labradors, being a large breed, will likely have a larger litter size. Though cases of producing just a puppy or two are not unheard of. Overall, if you have a pregnant Lab mother, expect her to give birth to about half a dozen babies. The biggest Labrador litter on record Now you know how many puppies to expect when your Lab gets pregnant. And you're probably wondering, "But what's the maximum they can pop out? Back in , when a black Scottish Labrador named Anne was pregnant, the vet predicted that she would have three to six puppies. Little did they know, the proud mama kept popping out babies one after the other until there were 15 of them! A more recent case was reported a few months back in April .Here, A Labrador called Bella produced 14 fur babies, just one shy of the record set in .The labor lasted for seven hours, and Bella gave birth to eight black and six yellow Labs. Fun fact: Anne's 15 kids are a lot, but the Guinness World Record for most puppies is set by Tia, a Neapolitan mastiff. She gave birth to 24 puppies in November .Of course, she couldn't do it all by herself and had to take the help of a Cesarean section. Factors affecting Labrador litter size Many variables influence how many puppies Labradors have. In this section, we'll talk about some of the crucial ones. But several other factors such as breeding management, reproductive history, and season also play a role. Even the environment she lives in affects her well-being and, consequently, the health and number of her babies. Much of the information here is sourced from an article published by Dr. Bretaigne Jones for Royal Canin. Age Labradors usually remain fertile for their entire lives. However, as you might imagine, their litter size decreases as they get older. As a general rule, Labs are most fertile between the ages of two to five. However, regardless of her age, a dog's first litter is usually smaller than the future ones. After the first one, the number of puppies increases with every litter, through the fourth litter. Then, it starts declining steadily. A Labrador will have her first heat cycle anytime after she's six months old. But you should never breed a Lab during her first heat cycle, as she's relatively young at this point. Imposing the stress of pregnancy and lactation can have adverse effects on the mother's mental health. Just like very old females, too young mothers also produce smaller litters. This is why the AKC recommends waiting for the third heat cycle, which means not breeding until the female Lab is months old. Lastly, the male Lab's age also affects the litter size. But the influence is much less than the female's age. As a male Lab gets older, his sperm count and quality decrease. He will produce larger litters under the age of five. Breed Size We've already discussed that smaller breeds tend to produce fewer puppies, and larger breeds have a bigger litter size. This trend is seen even within the same breed. A Labrador weighing 45 pounds 20 kg may only produce five or six babies, while a pound 32 kg Lab may give birth to a litter of ten puppies or more. Again, these are only generalizations based on the data available about Labrador puppies, which means there will be exceptions. You can have a relatively small Lab giving birth to nine or ten pups every litter. Health and Nutrition This one is a no-brainer. If your Lab is happy and healthy, she'll give birth to more puppies, and the babies born will be healthier as well. The mother needs to be in perfect health so that she and her pups survive the birthing and whelping process. Not only the female but the male Lab should also be healthy if you want to avoid complications. Nutrition is crucial for your Labs throughout their entire lives. And when it comes to breeding, diet directly affects the litter size. Both male and female Labs will produce healthier and larger litters if they've been fed a high-quality diet. Check out my Recommended Products for foods that I recommend, including custom fresh food solutions. Gene Pool Diversity Breeding two dogs from diverse genetic backgrounds results in bigger litters. Similarly, the smaller the gene pool is, the fewer puppies your Lab will have. Gene pool is smaller when closely related dogs brothers and sisters, fathers and daughters, etc. The more dogs are bred from the same line, the smaller the litter will be. This process of mating such dogs is known as inbreeding. We can measure the gene pool diversity using the coefficient of inbreeding, a numerical value ranging from zero not inbred at all to one completely inbred. Other Factors to Consider Apart from the things we discussed, litter size is also affected by: Type of breeding: Natural breeding results in more puppies than artificial insemination AI. Using AI can decrease the litter size by as much as 15 percent. Season: Usually, if a Lab gives birth in spring, she produces more puppies. But if the breeding takes place in summer, the litter size is smaller. Mating frequency: Litter size is smaller if the female is bred only once. So it's recommended to mate the Labs every other day until the female refuses to mate. What can you do to increase litter size in Labradors? While litter size is mostly out of our control, optimal conditions can increase how many puppies Labradors have. The first thing you should do is feed your Labs a healthy diet throughout their lives. There's no reason to spend extra money on grain-free food because dogs' evolution has given them the ability to digest grains easily. Just make sure you're feeding them one of the high-quality kibbles available in the market. Apart from a healthy diet, you should also give her enough playtime and exercise to maintain her ideal body weight. For female Labradors, it's lbs. Pregnancy drains the mother's body of protein, vitamins, minerals, and energy. You need to satisfy her dietary needs with food rich in fats and carbohydrates. Feeding a low-carb diet during pregnancy leads to increased fetal death and stillbirths. Consult your vet and make sure her diet includes enough vitamins, amino acids, minerals, omega-3 acids, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. As the mother nears the last three weeks of pregnancy, her dietary needs will increase significantly. This is because the embryonic puppies gain 75 percent of their body weight during this period. Depending on the litter size, she may need one and a half to two times her typical requirement for these few weeks. Control inbreeding risk Another thing you control is the coefficient of inbreeding. We've seen that mating closely related Labs results in decreased litter size. So it's the breeder's responsibility to choose suitable Labradors to pair. It would be best if the male and female Lab's last three ancestors are unrelated. Lastly, you can give your Lab lots of love and attention. She's going through a challenging period, and it's up to you to support her. Doing this doesn't directly increase the litter size, but it keeps the mother happy and enhances her well-being. So go and scratch her behind the ears! The One-Half Rule This is a general rule that's usually followed by all mammals. It states that a mother will produce half as many babies as there are nipples on her. Sounds interesting, right? Statistics back this rule. Most female dogs have eight to ten nipples, and as we've seen, the average litter size is 5. Humans, of course, have two. Most mothers give birth to one child at a time, but they may also produce twins occasionally. While it does happen, having more than two babies is rare among humans because nature tries to ensure enough nutrition and nourishment for all the babies. Now don't start counting your Lab's nipples! This is simply a statistical correlation; it's not a method you can use to predict litter size. The best way to determine litter size is to take your Lab to the vet. How often do Labradors produce puppies? As we've discussed, female dogs can go into heat anytime after they're six months old. After the first heat cycle, they will typically go into heat twice a year, which means they can produce puppies every six months. However, many breeders and veterinarians advise against breeding continuously. They contend that it's hard on the mother's body and decreases the litter size. Accordingly, they allow their female Lab to breed every other heat cycle, which means the mother will give birth to one litter per year. Others, including one I spoke with on the issue, contend that breeding back to back has physiological benefits for mothers, citing commentary from Dr. Robert Van Hutchinson, a well renowned veterinarian and reproduction specialist. In an online reproduction seminar , Dr. Hutchinson explained that the female's progesterone levels remain elevated for 60 days during ovulation - regardless of pregnancy. This causes severe stress to the uterine lining, and can lead to long term health issues. Therefore, skipping seasons prolongs this activity as opposed to breeding season after season and retiring the mother early. How many puppies Labs have in their lifetime As we've discussed, a Lab goes into heat twice every year, which means she can give birth to a litter every six months. Suppose a female starts breeding when she's two years old and continues doing so until she's eight. In that case, she would produce 13 litters over her lifetime. We've also seen that the average number of pups a Labrador produces is 7. We know that litter size is affected by several factors and does not stay the same throughout the years. But for argument's sake, let's say our female Lab continues to give birth to seven kids during every heat cycle. So theoretically, a Labrador can give birth to over 90 puppies in her lifetime. How long are Labradors pregnant? When measured from the date of ovulation, gestation lasts for days. Since it's difficult to determine the date of ovulation, you cannot know precisely how long your Lab will be pregnant. This is because male sperm can live for 10 to 11 days in the uterine tubes of the female dog. However, for the most part, you should expect your Lab's gestation period to last for two months, or maybe slightly longer. Signs of pregnancy in a Labrador As we've discussed, Labs' gestation period is only about two months. So you don't have a lot of time to notice and interpret the signs. Many pet owners are shocked to find their Lab pregnant in the final days of her pregnancy. Below are some signs of pregnancy in Labradors. If you start to notice them in your female dog, it could be that she's about to give birth to little fur babies. Your dog becomes exhausted quickly or spends more time sleeping Loss of appetite early stages or increased appetite later stages She becomes more affectionate, seeking extra attention, and wanting to stay beside you Appearing lethargic or depressed and just want to be left alone all the time There's mucus discharge from her vulva occurs about a month after mating Her nipples' size or color changes happens about a month after mating Her abdomen size increases noticeable after 40 days She gains weight starts happening around day 35 Of course, the best way to determine whether your Lab is pregnant is to take her to a vet. They will perform one of several diagnostic tests to determine if she will become a mother. Abdominal palpation, ultrasound scan, witness relaxing test, and X-rays are the most common ways to check pregnancy. Final thoughts Breeding Labradors isn't an easy task. You have to invest time and effort to take care of the mother and her puppies properly. Labs usually have five to ten babies per litter, and the average litter size seems to be 7. Factors like the mother's age, health, diet, and the coefficient of inbreeding affect how many puppies Labradors have. We can also influence the litter size to some extent by making sure the female Lab is healthy and by selecting unrelated dogs for mating. Many breeders mate their Labradors every other heat cycle once a year ; others believe back-to-back breeding to be most effective. Compared to other breeds of dogs, labs are somewhere in the middle. The size of a litter may vary based on factors such as medical condition, physical fitness, health, nutritional intake, and genetic variation. Incredible, huh? We will also discuss the 1st-ever large Labrador litter. Labrador puppies are generally born between 58 and 64 days after being conceived. There is an interesting relationship between pup count and the time to expect your labrador to be pregnant-free. One of the reasons for this is that there is not enough space and not enough sustenance to sustain the baby. In addition, it is not necessary for you to take your lady labrador to the veterinarian in order to deliver her since this can be adept without having to leave your home under the appropriate circumstances and precautions. It is simply a matter of offering some privacy and relief to the expectant mother. In any case, if you see the dog behaving strangely, it is a sign of the fact that the puppies are waiting to be born. Different breeds have different litter sizes, and dogs of large breeds have a tendency to breed more babies in comparison to dogs of small breeds. In addition to different breeds, there can also be differences between similar breeds of dogs. When it comes to Labradors, their first litter usually consists of 7 puppies. On the other hand, it is also important to note that other factors may come into play during this process, which may affect how many puppies your lab lady produces in her 1st litter. Even at the first litter, older labradors are capable of having up to 14 puppies. First pregnancies are always exciting both for humans and canines. However, in the case of labradors, the litter size affected as well. Interestingly enough, if this is the 1st litter of puppies for the female dog, chances are fewer puppies will be born. What is the reason? Because a newly pregnant mother has a smaller uterus, the body still has to adjust for pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Heredity and evolution play a role in the small size of the first litter. Generally, female labradors have the biggest pregnancies during their third and fourth pregnancies. From her first two pregnancies, two to three more puppies aexpected. However, as she reaches her fourth pregnancy, fewer puppies expected. In light of the above, it is important to note that the majority of vets advise against breeding dogs beyond the fourth time. Labrador parents and the dog centers should be happy to hear that there are a number of factors that contribute to the larger litters. To get the best labrador puppies, your best strategy involves paying close attention to the dietary needs, well-being, and physical activity of both DAM and SIRE. The Health Factor Litter size influenced by health in many ways, so health is the key factor here. Simply put, it is necessary for both female and male labradors to be in good health with the goal of producing the largest litter of puppies possible. When it comes to pet parents, to have the most puppies possible from your female lab, you should pay attention to her health. As no unhealthy labrador female can carry large litters. There is an important distinction to be made about the fact that health is what is being discussed, and this does not necessarily imply a labrador is obese. Before you breed your labradors, you should consider how slim or overweight they are. Supplementing the male as well as female Labrador with the best nutrition is key to increasing litter size. When compared to the litters of other breeds, the 1st litter of a female lab is usually small. The likelihood of a small litter is high if the bitch is under seven years old. However, it does not influence the size of a litter exclusively, in which case miracles can occur, such as the lab producing a larger litter at an early age. Young labradors must used for breeding because aged dogs will not release as much sperm and it will somehow affect the size of the litter. Labrador sperm count is high in the male of 5 years old, indicating that the litter will be healthy and large. It is therefore very important that breeding takes place at about the age of 5 years old for both male and female labradors. Genetic pool plays no role in litter size since only fertility affected. Aside from fertility, characteristics are primarily handed down from generation to generation. There are times when you will notice, such as with purebreds, that their eye color or size is not influenced by their genetic makeup, but these traits are inherited. Diet Matters Happiness can never achieved through a bad diet. Everyone knows this. Having a poor diet will prevent a female labrador from giving birth to as many puppies as she should. To ensure that your female labrador has a large litter size, it is essential that she is provided with a high-quality diet all year long and not just when breeding season arrives. Providing your female labrador with a high-quality and appropriate amount of nutrition will surely increase the furtiveness of your female labrador. Besides providing her with a nutritious diet, make sure she gets plenty of physical activity and proper exercise to stay in shape. When it comes to the female labs, they weigh between 55 and 70 pounds which is equivalent to 25 — 32 kilograms. Remember — Supplements is not the solution here and generally not recommended; a diet with a variety of nutrients is. Best Food For Pregnant Labradors In recent years, we have learned that pregnant labradors need high protein diets in order to be healthy. The nutritional needs of pregnant dogs are similar to those of pregnant women. In addition, they need certain vitamins and minerals in their diet. In light of this, we need to learn which is the most appropriate high-protein food for pregnant labradors. You can quickly become overwhelmed with all the choices you have when it comes to buying dog food for your lady labrador. The best dog foods for pregnant labradors compiled for your convenience. A litter from 2 years ago, for example, would not be the same size. Prior to pursuing a breeding session with your labradors, you should consult with a veterinarian. Keeping the proper gap between the two will not cause the litter size to decrease. However, having consecutive pregnancies will reduce the litter size. Other Considerations On top of the factors discussed previously, there are other factors that impact litter size: Mate Rate — According to the majority of the people, if a female only mates once, she will have a smaller litter. We recommend allowing them to mate every couple of days if they are necessary, but you must stop when the female refuses to mate. If you do not stop a female labrador when she refuses to mate, you will put him under a great deal of stress, prohibiting him from having successful breeding. Season — Most commonly, Spring is the most common seasonal time for a labrador to give birth, during which she gives birth to a large litter. However, when breeding occurs in the summer, smaller litters are born. Breeding type — It is generally acknowledged that naturally bred animals deliver more puppies than artificially bred ones. One-Half Rule All mammalian species tend to follow the same underlying rule. According to the rule, the number of babies a female gives birth to is equal to the number of nipples on her body. There is some evidence to support this rule. Typically, a female dog has between 8 to 10 nipples, which explains why litter size is typically 7. Two of them, of course, found in humans. It is common for mothers to have a single baby at a time, but twins can also be born. Although it is not unheard of, having three or more children in the same body is extremely rare as nature ensures sufficient care and nutrition for every child. These results are merely correlational. If you want to know the size of your litter, make an appointment with the veterinarian. Labradors belong to the large breed category, which means that they mature between 18 and 24 months. Which means that breeding should avoided up until her 3rd heat cycle and approximately two years of age. Pregnancy Symptoms In Labradors Labs only take about two months to gestate. The vast majority of pet parents are surprised when they discover their lab lady pregnant in the final days before the delivery. Your lady labrador may exhibit these signs as she prepares to give birth to a litter of puppies. In this case, your veterinarian can assist you. A pregnant female can be x-rayed to see how many pups are in her belly. Puppies with skeletons are seen during this process. Other methods to estimate the litter size include the following: Ultrasound scans Abdominal palpation. Mama Labrador Ready To Give Birth: How To Help Female Labrador giving birth is an incredible, exhilarating, and sometimes breathtaking experience you will surely remember for the rest of your life. Below are a few suggestions. Before you assist your labrador in giving birth, consult your veterinarian and gather the necessary supplies. It is important to make sure that your dog has an appropriate environment, preferably a litter box so that she has space to explore, but also to be aware of her needs. Some may be surprised to learn that labs are very capable of self-sustaining during the birthing process, as are many other breeds. Understanding when to provide assistance and when to let her handle things independently is an essential part of the process. The vet should be kept on hold for emergency purposes. Gather essential supplies such as cleaning towels, blankets, heating pads, gloves, and sterilized scissors. Maintain a clean and comfortable environment that is conducive enough to deliver puppies. She will need to be calmed because she will soon be in a lot of pain crying for help. Due to her heat cycle, labradors have heat cycles twice a year, allowing them to give birth every 6 months. If so, her lifetime litter count would be .Labrador puppies usually have six to seven pups on average. In fact, litter size changes throughout the year depending on a variety of factors. As a hypothetical case, assume the lab lady continuously delivers seven kids during every heat cycle. Consequently, female labradors are capable of bearing 90 puppies in their lifetime. No, the dates of their birth are the same, but the times are different. There is usually a minute interval between puppies. But it is possible for the mama dog to rest for as long as 4 hrs between puppies. Post navigation. Breeding a litter of puppies has huge appeal for many people. And indeed, absolutely anyone can breed from their Labrador. Whether or not they should is of course a different matter. And one on which many Labrador lovers have strong feelings. Public opinions about dog breeding It is quite common for Labrador owners thinking of breeding from their own dog to post up on internet forums and groups, asking for advice and information. Unfortunately the reaction they get from regular members is often enough to send them scurrying away without further comment. I say unfortunately, because once someone has been driven away, the opportunity to guide or influence them has been lost. This is a shame because there is possibly only one thing worse than a completely unprepared person producing a litter of puppies. And that is a completely unprepared person producing a litter of puppies without help. Who should breed from their dogs? There are those that believe no-one should breed dogs at all. They feel that there are too many unwanted dogs in the world already, and that no more puppies should be born. The chances are, if you are thinking of breeding, you already know of a family whose girl had a litter with no problems at all. Should my dog have puppies — Getting at the facts The facts are there are pros and cons to breeding. You need to consider the age, health and attributes of your female dog, and consider how breeding will affect her. And if you are to go down this route with minimal risk and maximum enjoyment, you need to do so with your eyes wide open, and armed with plenty of information. In this article we try to take a balanced view, and to give some objective and considered advice to those tempted to take the plunge and begin Labrador breeding themselves. Popular reasons to begin Labrador breeding In this section we take a look at some of the reasons why people want to breed from their dogs. And we look at the important factors which you need to consider before going ahead with breeding from yours. There are some reasons for breeding from a female Labrador which have no foundation in fact at all. There are reasons for and against spaying at an early age, or even at all. You may wish to consider these before committing your animal to such a major surgical intervention, but that is another subject. It is certainly not to her advantage physically, to have a litter before removing her uterus. Myth: Having a litter will calm her down The temperament of your female dog will depend on a variety of factors, including the genes she has inherited, the way you manage her, and how mature she is. Many dogs grow a little calmer with advancing maturity. If your dog is a bit excitable and hyperactive before having puppies, she is likely to be so afterwards. And what is more, will have produced half a dozen or more excitable and hyperactive puppies. It will be good for my children to see puppies born and raised I want another female dog just like mine It will make me some money These three reasons have some foundation in fact, but there are a huge number of influencing factors which could be involved in your case. One or more of these might mean for you, that breeding from your dog is not such a good idea. Reason: It will be good for my kids There is no doubt that in an ideal world, with a perfect pregnancy and easy labour, and half a dozen or so live healthy puppies, there is some pleasure to be had for all the family in the raising of a litter of puppies. However, life is not always that straightforward, and it is important to consider the consequences of a less than happy outcome. Although it is not common for a Lab to die in labour, it does happen. Only you can judge the effect that might have on your children. For one or more puppies to be stillborn or die in the first few days of life is more common. A midnight dash to the vets for a caesarean section, and difficulties getting the dog to feed her pups afterwards are a distinct possibility. These are not easy things for adults to cope with, let alone small children. A litter of healthy puppies will occupy a lot of your time, for several weeks. Whilst hand-rearing puppies is exhausting, and caring for sickly puppies is gruelling and distressing. Your children will not benefit from your lack of attention or the stress levels in your home during this time. Reason: I want another dog like mine This is a completely understandable motive for breeding from your dog. And it is important to take a really objective look at your dog and to try and see her through the eyes of others. Your dog shares the most genetic information with her siblings. Buying a brother or sister, from another litter by the same parents is the best way of getting a dog like her. Of course, it may be that her parents are no longer alive or being bred from. But another dog from the same line of close relatives bred by a knowledgeable breeder is likely to give you a very similar dog. Breeding your girl to a dog of your choice, without any real knowledge or understanding of his genetic lines, is likely to produce uncertain results. It is something to consider. The quality of your Labrador: When we have a really exceptional dog of great quality, it is only natural to want to breed from her. If your female has been winning awards for her appearance and structure on the show bench, or successfully passed her Gundog Grades, if she is doing well in agility or obedience competitions, or succeeding in field trials or working trials, you at least have some measure of her quality as judged by other people. This in turn will give you some idea of the potential for demand for her puppies. The principle factor you will need to assess is her temperament. You will need to particularly consider her disposition towards people, especially children, and her trainability. It is these two qualities which she must excel in order to stand a chance of producing good puppies. It would be very wise to get several unbiased opinions on these important factors. Reason: It will make me some money This is not always a reason that people admit to, but it is certainly a motivating factor for many people in the decision to breed a litter of puppies. Unfortunately, the costs involved in gaining health clearances for a Labrador will often outweigh any income gained from a single litter. So unless you wish to breed on a regular basis, you are most unlikely to gain any financial benefit at all from breeding from your dog. On the contrary, you stand a good chance of ending up considerably out of pocket as we shall see below. This is an interesting argument and though in principle a fine ethical stance, it is a difficult one to define precisely. Most of us would agree that you should not breed from a substandard animal, but what exactly constitutes a better dog is a very subjective matter. Indeed the breeding of pedigree dogs by so-called experts has come under a great deal of scrutiny lately. But most people would agree that you have a moral obligation to do your best to ensure that the puppies you produce will be healthy happy puppies that grow into healthy, happy, good-tempered, trainable dogs. Fulfilling this obligation can be a time and money consuming responsibility. Making healthy Labrador puppies There are a number of inherited conditions to which Labradors are susceptible. It is vital that anyone breeding Labradors ensures that both parents of any puppies they produce, have been checked for these conditions before getting their dog pregnant. The scientific community is clear and increasingly urgent: generations of breeding to standards based on solely on appearance has allowed bad welfare choices to be made. And now we need to breed for health as well as good looks. Apart from your moral obligation to do so, the consequences of failing in this duty can be serious. Without these clearances, you stand an increased chance of producing unhealthy puppies, of failing to sell your puppies most new owners know to ask for health clearances , of being sued by angry owners of unhealthy puppies that you have sold them, and of having unhealthy puppies being returned to you and the cost of their veterinary treatment being laid at your door. Health clearances The minimum health clearances required for a Labrador are hip scoring and eye testing. Many breeders nowadays also test for a range of other disorders, and elbow score their dogs as well. These tests are a crucial part of maintaining and improving the health and happiness of our Labradors. The costs of these tests are considerable and if you decide to go ahead and breed from your dog it is a good idea to get the cheapest tests done first. That way, if your dog fails the cheaper test, you will be spared the costs of the more expensive ones. Information on health screening tests for Labradors can be found in our health screening section. Protecting against inbreeding Part betterment of the breed and part making healthy Labrador puppies, protecting against inbreeding is an important part of maintaining healthy breeding lines for all pedigree dogs. Inbreeding occurs when related dogs mate. Whilst most people will instinctively recoil at mating very closely related Labs, few people realise the damaging effect of mating dogs who share a great- or great-great-grandparent. The average number could be as high as .Fortunately, because our genes come in pairs, as long as one copy is correct, we never feel the disadvantages of carrying a faulty copy. Passing on faulty genes Put simply, the each generation of puppies is being fathered by only a fraction of the male dogs in the previous generation. This leads to homozygosity — puppies begin to be born with two copies of a faulty gene — and this time the disadvantages of that fault are expressed. Luckily there are a lot of Labs in the world, so protecting against inbreeding is very achievable. These travel costs you make need to make the journey several times also need to be part of your decision making. You need to be objective about this, if you mate a dog that is overweight for example, you may be putting her safety at great risk. How old should my dog be to breed from her? A female dog needs to be physically and mentally mature before she has puppies. But she should also still be youthful. It is not fair to put an older dog through the stress of pregnancy, whelping, and raising a litter. This means that she should be at least two years old, and probably not more than four when she has her first litter Do you have the right support? As you will be acting as midwife when your dog goes into labour, you will need a mentor, someone who has whelped a lot of litters, to advise you. This may be your vet, though not all vets are experienced at dealing with a normal whelping. It could be the person who bred your own dog, or just an experienced friend. But you will need someone who can advise you and who is willing to be phoned at 3 in the morning. And there could be quite a few of them! How many puppies do Labradors have? Many Labradors will have six to eight puppies. Some may have as many as twelve or more. Some as few as one or two. Litters of ten are not at all unusual. The extremes come with their own issues, but even if your girl has an average litter, that will still be half a dozen or so homes for you to find. Finding homes for puppies? Prospective owners can pick and choose. So you need to consider if and why they might choose you. Is your female Lab a show winner? Has she won several Field Trials? Is she an agility champion? Working Trials? The hard fact is, these are the qualities that puppy buyers may be looking for. They want to know that the parents of their pup are successful in some way. No matter how lovely and how beautiful your dog, there is a very good chance that you could be left with several rapidly growing puppies, long after the cutesy eight to nine week stage has passed. Could you cope with this? Providing long term support Once your puppies have left and gone to their new homes, in the eyes of many, your responsibility continues. New puppy owners often need help and support, and the person they are likely to turn to, is their breeder. So you need to consider how you might feel about this, and whether or not you would be prepared and willing to take a puppy back if the new owner really cannot cope. Unless you can do this, you are simply adding to the mountain of unwanted dogs currently languishing in rescue centres throughout the land. The financial costs of Labrador breeding There are a range of costs to take into account when breeding from your female for the first time. These include Health clearances Worming and veterinary antenatal care Extra food for pregnant and lactating female dog A secure and appropriate whelping box and plenty of soft washable veterinary bedding Heated pads for pups to cuddle up to when the mother dog is not with them A fund must be available for a caesarean section and any other emergency postnatal care that may be required by your lactating dog or her puppies Worming medicines for puppies Kennel Club registration for each puppy Food for weaning First vaccinations and vet checks Costs of extra care and vaccinations for any pups unsold after eight weeks. If you have to take unpaid leave from work to be with the puppies you will need to factor this into your costs as well. Breeding a single litter can leave you substantially out of pocket, especially if your girl needs a caesarian section not uncommon. The greatest cost is probably the mental and physical effort that you will be putting in to the whole exercise. During the weaning process, puppies need feeding six times a day to begin with, and this is quite a pleasant if somewhat sticky process. However, this is only a small part of your responsibilities. The two most challenging factors to take into consideration are Time Mess The time factor: A pregnant Labrador requires your absolute and undivided attention from the moment she goes into labour until several hours after her last puppy has arrived safely. This whole process can take 24 hours or more. That means no sleep for you. After that time, your dog requires that a responsible adult is on your premises and available to see to her needs, and those of her puppies for the next seven to eight weeks. Keeping puppies clean, fed and generally well-cared for is enormously time-consuming. So you either need a boss willing to give you six weeks off, or another adult available to replace you at home. The mess factor: Most Labs make a pretty good job of cleaning up after their pups until you start to wean them at about three weeks old. If all has gone very well, then for the first three weeks you will be able to gaze at this adorable pile of Labrador loveliness with a deep sense of pleasure. Everything changes at weaning time. From this time onwards, cleaning up is your job. Bear in mind that all puppies have the primary objective of covering themselves in poo during their every waking moment. As fast as you clean them up, they will get messy again. This process is no fun at all. And the bigger and livelier the puppies get, the less fun and more challenging the cleaning process becomes. You will need the biggest mountain of newspaper in history, and a lot of hot soapy water and patience. The cleaning up process takes place every time you feed six times daily , and in-between where necessary. This is hard and smelly work, especially with kibble fed puppies. Is this the right time for you to breed from your Labrador? To sum up, here are the factors that you need to consider carefully before making a final decision to breed from your female Lab Are your objectives realistic and is mating your dog likely to achieve these objectives? Is your dog of suitable quality to ensure quality puppies? Is she is tip-top condition? Can you afford the necessary health checks, stud fee, veterinary treatment and other costs of raising a litter? Do you have an experienced mentor to help and advise you throughout pregnancy and labour? Can you be at home for seven to eight weeks without a break? Are you prepared to interview and vet prospective new owners and to turn away unsuitable buyers? This can be a time consuming and sometimes uncomfortable job. Can you house and care for any puppies that are unsold after eight weeks? Are you willing to take responsibility for any puppies that are returned to you later it happens. Are you prepared to take the risk to your dog of undergoing pregnancy and labour? It is probably worth underlining that even the best bred litter will sometimes fail to sell, especially in times of economic hardship. It is not unheard of for rescue centres to be given an entire litter of twelve week old puppies that the owner has simply been unable to sell and does not have the resources to house now that they have outgrown their puppy pens. If you are still unsure about breeding do take your time with this important decision. And if you are yearning for another dog please spare a thought for the many thousands of unwanted Labradors in rescue societies awaiting re-homing, often through no fault of their own but as a result of divorce, emigration, or the death of an owner. Please check our health screening section for details of the current health checks now recommended for Labradors in the UK. Has your Lab had puppies? Share your experiences with owner dog owners having the same dilemma using the comments box below! Labs are also one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, ranking third in our analysis. They are easily recognized by their sweet face and high-energy demeanor. Dating back to at least the s, there are plenty of reasons why this dog breed is so popular. Labrador Retrievers are very loyal companions. They make great family dogs as they are gentle with kids, playful, and very intelligent. In this article, we will look at the breed characteristics of the Labrador Retriever, explain where they originated, provide a short history of the breed up to the modern day, and answer commonly asked questions about the breed. Labrador Retriever breed characteristics Labradors are a medium-to-large sized dog. Females weigh 55 to 70 pounds and males between 65 to 80 pounds. While females can stand 21 to 23 inches tall, males can reach between .The breed is extremely intelligent and are working dogs. Labrador Retrievers can make great tracking, detection, hunting, or service dogs. Originally bred to be water dogs, the Labrador Retriever is a superb swimmer and loves getting wet. Labradors come in three main colors—black, chocolate, and gold. The gold can be pale yellow to fox red to whitish yellow. Some owners see personality differences in different colors of Labrador Retrievers. It is said that yellow Labradors are sweet and calm, while black Labradors are patient and active, and chocolate Labradors are a little fierce and noisy. The breed has a double-coat. The outer coat is dense and has straight hair covering the soft and waterproof undercoat. Labrador Retrievers have a wide head with a thick tail to help them guide in the water. Their ability to tolerate cold water for long periods of time makes them one of the best swimming dogs. The breed was first introduced in Newfoundland, Canada. During this time, small water dogs were bred with the Newfoundland dog breed to be a new breed called the St. These dogs were owned by fishermen in the area to jump into icy water to bring fish that fell off their hooks. Although there were different breeds of dogs similar to the Labrador Retriever, the breed kept living in Newfoundland until the s. The Labrador Retriever was then imported to Poole, England. The Earl of Malmesbury saw the Labrador Retriever and immediately brought him home. This led to Labradors becoming increasingly popular in England over time. The British sportsman and soldier Colonel Peter Hawker described the breed as being not larger than an English Pointer, long in its head and nose with a deep chest; more often black than other colors; having a short and smooth coat; agile and quick; and adept at swimming. By the s, the Labrador became very popular in England and was called the Labrador Retriever. In , the first yellow Labrador Retriever was born and the breed was recognized by The Kennel Club in .The breed regularly features on lists of the most popular registered breeds in the United States; the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular dog in America since .It is normal to spot them working in a wide range of fields. The most common working role of Labrador Retrievers is working as guide dogs. You can expect to see Labradors work in carting, detection, therapy, and even search and rescue activities such as tracking. Their quiet nature while engaging in these pursuits make them a great assistant of hunters. Labradors are one of the longest-living dog breeds. The median longevity for a Labrador is about 10 to 14 years. The color of the Labrador can also play a role in lifespan. On average, chocolate Labradors live between 10 to 11 years. How fast can a Labrador run? Undoubtedly, Labradors are very fit and athletic dogs. This allows them to run up to 20 to 30 miles per hour. With proper exercise and physical training, Labradors can easily reach a top running speed of 30 miles per hour. When is a Labrador fully grown? The Labrador is a fast maturing breed. Labradors reach their fully grown height from 6 to 12 months but still fill up to 2 years of age. A method of figuring out how big a Labrador puppy will eventually get is by doubling the size once 16 weeks old. The duration of pregnancy in Labradors are pretty much the same as all the other dog breeds. Typically, pregnancy in dogs last between 56 to 68 days. The heat cycles vary from breed to breed, including in Labradors but the gestation period is mostly the same for all dogs at about nine weeks. How many puppies can a Labrador have? A Labrador can have six to twelve puppies. What are common Labrador health conditions? Labradors mainly suffer from joint problems like elbow or hip dysplasia. This causes them pain, immobility and prohibits normal movement. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in nutrients and vitamins with proper exercise can help prevent these ailments. Other than dysplasia, bloating, ear infections, and heart diseases are common. Are Labradors aggressive dogs? Labradors are laid back, friendly and patient. Just like any other dog breed, Labradors may become aggressive if they feel in danger or see a threat to the family. Read more in this series:.

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 Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. 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. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Lifespan Sociability As puppies, Labradoodles look like tiny, fuzzy teddy bears. In reality, this cross-breed can be a great deal to handle for first-time dog owners or those looking for a more hands-off canine companion. What does this mean? The Lab Poodle mix awkwardly straddles the worlds of purebred and mutt. On the one hand, Labradoodles are purposely bred and sold for tons of cash. On the other, the cross-breed is not recognized or regulated by any major dog organization at least in the United States. Many breeders also turn to in-breeding to achieve desirable puppies. Yes, Labradoodles can make incredible pets, and there are countless well-intentioned breeders out there. Unfortunately, this also means many Labradoodles end up causing discomfort for misinformed households. The Labradoodle might boast a Poodle-like coat, but hair type has nothing to do with canine allergens. Instead, your allergies are probably triggered by the dander a. If you or a family member requires a hypoallergenic dog, then the Labradoodle might not be the best option! While the regular Labradoodle is just a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Australian Labradoodle includes genetics from the Cocker Spaniel and other unknown breeds. Labradoodles come in a variety of colors and patterns, from stark white to tri-colored. In this regard, the Labradoodle definitely takes after the Poodle. Despite what many lovers of the cross-breed believe, Labradoodles can also have more than one type of fur. While the most popular coat texture is wavy, you can also find puppies with extremely curly and straight fur! With consistent socialization and training, though, these traits can be easily managed. A well-adjusted Labradoodle is friendly, mellow, and ready for anything the world has to offer. Labradoodles who have not been taught to manage their excitement, especially around strangers and other dogs, can quickly cause issues. Before bringing home a Labradoodle puppy, take note that poor genetics often lead to behavioral and temperamental issues. While this is true for any dog — purebred, hybrid, or full-on mutt — it is a well-documented problem within the Labradoodle community. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Most Labradoodles are fairly large, reaching up to 65 pounds, so these eager playmates will easily mow down small children. Labradoodles are bred to be friendly and relaxed around strangers, making them terrible guard dogs. Because of its generally low prey drive, the Labradoodle is a great option for households with cats or small dogs. Please reference the feeding guidelines of your chosen food — every formula has slightly different serving recommendations. You should also aim to go on two long walks per day. While puzzles are a great way to meet these needs, adventure walks meandering walks or hikes where your dog can sniff and explore a new environment are also an excellent choice. A lack of room to run around and burn excess energy can rapidly breed destructive habits. The combination of high intelligence and overall friendliness makes the Labradoodle great for experienced and first-time dog owners who are willing to invest in lifelong training. Even naturally friendly dogs can suffer if not properly socialized from an early age. Like Poodles, Labradoodle coats can be cut in a variety of functional and fashionable ways. However, the lack of standardized breeding and immense popularity means many Labradoodles carry poor genetics. Labradoodles are most affected by conditions common among Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. Regular vet visits can help keep your pup healthy and catch early signs of disease. Here are the most common health conditions known to affect Labradoodles: Minor Conditions. And the most common health problems of Poodles are: Hip dysplasia The autoimmune skin condition sebaceous adenitis Hypothyroidism Bloat Problems with eyesight Some of these conditions are inherited, and tests are available to screen dogs being considered for breeding. A Labrador and Labradoodle mix puppy should always comes from parents who have been health tested for hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, eye disease, thyroid disease and exercise induced collapse. Examples include allergies, eczema and sebaceous adenitis. Finally, ear infections, obesity and bloat can be largely controlled by lifestyle choices. Labradoodle Labrador mix grooming Pedigree Labradors need relatively little grooming. Their medium length, straight coat is too short to tangle. But, a regular habit of brushing, and occasionally bathing, your Lab can help a lot with managing shedding. It needs daily brushing from root to tip, to remove dirt and debris, and prevent painful mats forming. Is a Labradoodle Labrador mix hypoallergenic? Dogs of all types produce allergens in their saliva and to a lesser extent their sweat and urine , not their hair or dander. In fact, non shedding coats can be more problematic than shedding coats, because of the time you need to spend up close with your dog brushing them every day. If you have allergies, ask to spend time with a puppy on several occasions before you bring them home. Do Labradoodle Labrador mixes make good family pets? The first deliberate Labradoodles were bred as service dogs, but more recently they have surged as companion dogs for families of all sorts. Labradors and Poodles are both affectionate and devoted to their human families, and known for their patience with children. Very young children should be supervised with dogs at all times, but a Labradoodle mixed with Labrador is a great fit for a household with older kids and teenagers. Since they are very playful and thrive off lots of interaction and engagement every day, a household with lots of people to help out, or a retired household with plenty of free time is their perfect environment. F1b Labradoodles are not well suited to being left alone for several hours a day. Labs and Poodles were both bred to be team players and very focused on their handler. Withdrawing the target of that instinct you! Finding a Labradoodle Labrador mix puppy Labradoodles, second generation Labradoodles, and even backcrossed Labradoodles are increasingly popular with pet buyers, and they are getting easier and easier to find. The Labrador Labradoodle F1b combination is a little unusual though. Puppies reared on puppy farmers are more likely to have chronic hereditary health problems that require expensive lifelong treatment. And they are more likely to have behavioral problems as a result of inadequate socialization, or being separated from their mom too early. This article can help you identify and avoid puppy farmers. Have documents proving their sire and dam were health tested. Want to know all about you, and how you picture a puppy fitting into your life. Cons Unpredictable coat Needs a lot of mental stimulation and physical activity Popular with puppy farmers, so you might have to discount a lot of bad breeders before you find a good one. Pros Likely to be friendly and affectionate Easy to train Labs, Poodles and Labradoodles are all popular for a reason — they tend to be all round good dogs! What kind of owner would you recommend them to? Let us know in the comments section down below! But, occasionally, some may backcross a Labradoodle with a Labrador, to create the Labradoodle Lab mix! This mix will usually have a straight, double layered coat. They tend to be moderate shedders, but their fur can be less prone to tangles than a curlier Labradoodle mix. Some breeders will backcross Labradoodles, creating f1b or f2b mixes. In most of these cases, the breeder will backcross a Labradoodle to a purebred Poodle. Most breeders will choose to backcross to a Poodle in the hopes of passing on the genes that cause curly, low shedding fur. Backcrossing to a Labrador increases the chances of a mix puppy having Labrador traits. But, the outcome of mixed breed dogs is always a little unpredictable. So, Labradoodle and Labrador mix puppies can still be quite unique! A Labradoodle Labrador mix will usually be a medium to large dog. Their height will most often range between 18 and 24 inches, whilst their weight tends to be anywhere from 50 to 80 lbs. Labradoodles are usually smaller than Labradors, and puppies will most often fall between the sizes of their parents. On top of this, females are usually smaller than males. But, if you want a large dog, look for a male puppy. Coat Type and Colors Labradoodles are usually described as hypoallergenic, but no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic! However, a Labradoodle with curly hair is less likely to shed as much around your home, thanks to the Poodle influence. A Labradoodle Labrador cross will usually have a straight, double layered coat like their Lab parent. Their coat might be dense like a Lab, or slightly thinner. Colors can vary in this mix. Though Labradors come in three standard colors black, yellow, and chocolate , Labradoodles have a very wide variety of colors. Take a look at the Labradoodle parent to see what your mix puppy might inherit! Labradoodle Labrador Mix Temperament Like appearance, temperament can vary in a mixed breed dog. But, there are plenty of traits that we can predict in a Labrador Labradoodle mix. Both parents are known to be energetic and people-oriented dogs. This mix is likely to get along with everyone, as long as you socialize them properly from a young age to new experiences, animals, and people. They are eager to please, and have plenty of energy to burn every day. This mix is very intelligent. Given their intelligence and eagerness to please, they often take well to training. But, they can also become easily bored. And, a bored Labradoodle Labrador mix may display unwanted and undesirable behaviors like digging, chewing, barking, stealing things, and so on. And, dedicate time every day to playing together. But, when your puppy is older, you can really get creative with the types of exercise you try. This mix will usually enjoy retrieving games, like fetch. But, they may also enjoy swimming, hiking, scent-work, running with you, rally, agility and more. Ensuring your Labrador Labradoodle mix gets enough exercise each day will go a long way towards keeping them happy and healthy. Training a Labradoodle Labrador Mix Since this mix is eager to please and intelligent, they will usually pick up new cues quickly. A Labradoodle Lab mix will usually be very eager to work for training treats! Keep your training sessions relatively short, and always consistent. And, remember that every dog will be different, so some may take a little longer to grasp some cues than others! As a medium to large dog breed, basic obedience is a must. This will prevent any jumping up at potentially fragile or nervous visitors! They often have double layered coats, but the density and length of their fur will vary from one dog to the next. Generally, this mix will shed moderately all year round, and slightly higher in summer months. Since their fur is straight, any shedding hairs will fall straight out, so you may have to clean them from your house more regularly than you would with a typical Labradoodle mix. Regular grooming can help you keep on top of shedding. You may want to increase the frequency of this during heavy shedding periods. The best grooming methods will depend on the type of coat your mix inherits. Many owners prefer going to a professional groomer for this! Studies have shown that mixed breeds live, on average, longer than purebred dogs. Labradors live an average of 12 years, so you can expect a healthy Labradoodle Labrador mix to live to around this age, if not longer. However, a Labradoodle Labrador mix can still be prone to a number of health conditions, including those common in the parent breeds. Here are some of the major issues that this mix could be prone to: Arthritis. Black, cream, white, apricot, gold, caramel, chocolate, red, tan, sable Suitable for: Active families, families with children, those looking for a playful and active dog Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, friendly, energetic, playful, easy-going While Labradoodles are known for being sweet, their consistency in other characteristics is lacking. The demand for these dogs contributes to irresponsible and hasty breeding, and the results are litters of puppies with varying personalities. Not all Labradoodles are exactly alike but they do share similar characteristics. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Labradoodle Puppies Image Credit: Danii Brown Photography, Shutterstock Labradoodle puppies are highly intelligent and social, and tend to be good with children and other pets. They are also known for being easily trained and make great family pets. Labradoodles come in a variety of sizes, coat types, and colors, which can range from straight to curly and from black to cream. Labradoodles, like all hybrid breeds, can exhibit a range of physical and behavioral traits from both parent breeds, so it is important to research the background of the individual dog to get a sense of what to expect. These are smart and loveable dogs that enjoy following commands and completing tasks. This is another reason that Labradoodles are used as service and therapy dogs. Their gentle dispositions combined with their intelligence and love for people make them ideal for anyone, from first-time dog owners to those with a house full of pets. They are low-maintenance dogs that are happy to spend time with their families. They can suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone for too long. This can manifest through barking, howling, pacing, urinating in the house, and being destructive. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They get along well with kids, but their large size and playful natures could overwhelm small children. If this breed is properly trained and socialized, they make loyal companions that are devoted to their families. Labradoodles love people and other animals alike and get along well with other pets in the home. Their gentle and accepting personalities make them ideal for a home with other animals. The best way to ensure that your Labradoodle will be friends with the other animals in the household is to raise the animals together. Puppies will grow to love and accept other housemates as family. Adding a Labradoodle puppy to a house with other pets is easier than adding an adult Labradoodle to the mix. That said, while it may take longer for the adult dog to become familiar with everyone, they will be happy to do so. Training and socialization when the Labradoodle is a puppy, though, are crucial to their success living with other animals. However, there are several requirements to be aware of when welcoming this dog into your home. Here are a few things to consider about owning Labradoodles. When you bring your puppy home, they should be kept on the same diet that they were eating previously. This will help you avoid any digestive distress from a sudden change in food. A high-quality, protein-packed kibble will work well for puppies and adult Labradoodles. There is no one universal dog food that will offer the same nutrients to every dog. Just like people, different dogs need specialized diets suited to their needs. Treats are always welcome by Labradoodles and are motivators during training. A handful of dry kibble offered piece by piece will also work, depending on how food-motivated your dog is and how much they enjoy their food. They can go from sleeping on the sofa to up and waiting at the door to go outside in seconds. They require exercise to be healthy and happy but also to avoid them becoming bored. A bored Labradoodle will make up their own activities, and these may not always be the things that you want them to be doing. A minute play session per day in a fenced-in area where the dog can run or chase a ball will provide the mental and physical stimulation that they need. However you choose to do it, your Labradoodle will enjoy the exercise and the time with you. They like learning new things and following commands. Their trainability makes them reliable and competent service dogs. If you welcome this dog to your home as a pet, there are a few things that you can do to help them be the best they can be. Socializing your new puppy is the most important step to take from the time that you bring them home. This encourages your dog to not fear new experiences, people, or places and instead, to be intrigued by new things. A puppy socialization class is a good place to start. Playdates with your friends and their dogs will help your dog learn to make friends. Obedience classes will teach your dog basic manners and how to follow simple instructions. From there, you can move on to agility classes, to help your dog get the exercise that they need while focusing on an activity. Patience and repetition are required from you so your dog associates learning with a positive experience. If you get this done professionally, it will include a haircut, nail trim, and bath. Regular nail trims are important for paw health. Overgrown nails can be painful and make walking difficult for your dog. In addition, the popularity of Labradoodles has increased, leading to overbreeding and irresponsible breeding. If you have a Labradoodle, these are potential issues that could arise down the road. Regular veterinary exams are important for the prevention and detection of these conditions. Minor Conditions. Those with Lab-type coats are lower maintenance than those with wavy coats. Wavy fur is more likely to knot and tangle, particularly if it grows long, like a fleece type Labradoodle. No matter what fur type your mix has, the Labradoodle Lab mix will likely shed more than a standard Labradoodle mix. Shedding hairs are less likely to get caught in straight fur. But, no matter what type of fur your mix has, grooming can help to control and remove shedding hairs. Start grooming from a young age, to ensure your mix is comfortable with all aspects of the process. Are Labradoodle Lab Mixes Hypoallergenic? However, studies into hypoallergenic dogs draw mixed conclusions. But, others find no different between hypoallergenic and non-hypoallergenic breeds. Generally, Labradoodle Lab mix dogs will not be hypoallergenic dogs. The best way to see if a certain dog triggers allergy symptoms for you is to spend time with them before committing and bringing them home. You can also enforce a strict cleaning regimen, and recruit someone else in your home to complete grooming tasks. The Labrador and Labradoodle mix can make a great family companion in the right home. These dogs are people-oriented, eager to please, and playful. They are very social dogs that do best in homes where they have lots of company. This is also a very high energy dog. Daily training and exercise are a must. But, since they are likely to have a more Lab-like coat, they may not suit people who suffer from dog allergies. Finding a Labradoodle Lab Mix Puppy Labradoodles are popular dogs, so finding a Labradoodle breeder who backcrosses their dogs is not likely to pose a challenge. However, finding a breeder who backcrosses to the Labrador is going to be harder. Most breeders will backcross to Poodles in order to achieve a low-shedding, curly coat. Some breeders may have litters, or will at least be able to point you in the direction of someone who can help. Puppy mills, pet stores, and backyard breeders tend to jump on trends like the Labradoodle to make a quick profit. But, the puppies they sell are often poorly cared for and much more likely to have health and behavioral problems. So, above all else, you should prioritise finding a reputable breeder. Puppy prices will vary from one location to the next. Factors like demand for a certain breed, puppy colors, coat type, and so on, can all influence puppy price. The Labradoodle Labrador mix is less common than a Poodle backcross. And, much less popular. So, whilst they might be harder to find, they also tend to cost less. Rescuing a Labradoodle Labrador Mix An alternative option to buying a puppy from a breeder is to search for one in rescue centers. Puppies from rescue centers are often cheaper than those from a breeder. They might be slightly older, but this can be an advantage, as many will have some basic training. The major disadvantage of rescue center mixed breeds is that staff might not know exactly what parentage the dogs have. These dogs are best suited to families that have plenty of time for training, exercise and mental stimulation. They may be too energetic for apartment living, unless you have access to an open, safe space to give them exercise and a chance to stretch their legs a few times each day. Do you have this uncommon backcross at home already? Or are you still considering whether this mix is right for you? Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments! Readers Also Liked. Both breeds are popular choices as working dogs, and their friendly demeanors and trainability also make them great therapy dogs. Labrador Retriever vs. Labradors are a purebred dog breed, while the Labradoodle breed is a genetic hybrid of two purebred breeds: Labradors and Poodles. Both of these dogs are intelligent and loyal, so it makes sense why this hybrid dog breed was created: With the right cross of parents, an excellent outcome was almost guaranteed. He was assigned to generate a hypoallergenic guide dog with a winning personality for a blind woman whose husband was allergic to dog hair. So, the Poodle, a hypoallergenic dog that hardly ever sheds, was bred with the Labrador, a classic guide dog—and the Labradoodle was born. The Origin of Labradors Labradors have a history that goes back farther — they were originally bred in the s by fishermen in Newfoundland. These fishermen combined a local dog, the St. These dogs quickly gained popularity, and so the English colonists transported them to the United Kingdom before they were then popularized in the United States some years later. Labrador vs. Labradoodle: Which is Better? If you ask a Labrador owner which breed beats out which, their opinion will be unanimous: Labradors are the best. Of course, Labradoodles feel just as passionate about their pooches. Regarding their personalities, health, grooming needs, and other important aspects of dog ownership, some differences may lean more towards your personal preference. Learn all you need to know about the differences between Labradors and Labradoodles below. Appearance: Labrador vs. Labradors are almost unmistakable in appearance: Their stockier, larger build is complete with a thick coat that is long, straight, and coarse in texture. Because of their longer, softer, and curlier hair and more petite, elegant body, Labradoodles look pretty different from their close cousin, the Labrador. Labradoodles also have a more comprehensive range of coat colors and types, colors, with acceptable coats being yellow, brown, black, blonde, charcoal, and apricot. Size: Labrador vs. Labradoodle Unlike Labradoodles, all purebred Labradors—no matter their parents or genetic makeup—grow up to be a standard size. They will typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds, with females weighing less and males weighing more. Keep in mind that the size ultimately depends on the size of the poodles used: Mini Labradoodles: 15 to 25 pounds Medium Labradoodles: 30 to 45 pounds Standard Labradoodles: 50 to 65 pounds Typically, a standard Labradoodle will be slightly smaller than a purebred Labrador, so if you prefer a smaller dog in size, then Labradoodles may be perfect for you. However, if you like the sturdiness and energetic gait of a Labrador, then Labs might be for you instead. Temperament and Personality: Labrador vs. The good news: Both Labradors and Labradoodles have great personalities. So, producing an heir of the mix will increase the likelihood of excellent temperament. They are favorite family pets, are good with children, and are almost always friendly with other dogs, as long as they undergo training. Poodles belong to the non-sporting group: A diverse background made up of very different breeds of dogs. Some of the most common characteristics shared across the breed are active, smart, and affectionate. They are good with children and sometimes good with other dogs. Intelligence: Labrador vs. Labradoodle Labradors and Poodles are among the most intelligent and trainable breeds in the world. So as you might expect, Labradoodles are some of the most intelligent hybrid dogs thanks to their genetic ties to Labradors and Poodles. The Labradoodle takes important qualities from both genetic ancestors, where Labradors have a natural, intuitive IQ, and Poodles are observant and quick to learn. However, since Labradoodles are so intelligent, they need to be mentally and physically stimulated. So, while Labradoodles are extremely smart, they require a certain level of mental stimulation, whereas Labradors may need less stimulation. Coat and Grooming: Labrador vs. Labradoodle Poodles are a well-favored breed for their short, curly coat that hardly ever sheds, making them one of the best hypoallergenic dogs in the world. But although Labradoodles were bred explicitly for those who are allergic to dogs, the other parent breed, the Labrador, is not hypoallergenic. In spring, the Labrador loses the winter coat for the warmer months. And in the fall, they grow a thicker coat for the cold weather ahead. Between these two significant sheds, they require plenty of brushing and grooming throughout the year. However, F2s are more prone to genetic health problems than F1s. Training: Labrador vs. During puppyhood and young adolescence, they are more than willing to please people around them, and once you establish a relationship, they are great listeners. Labradors are highly trainable and often recommended for first-time dog owners. Exercise: Labrador vs. Labradoodle Both the Labrador and Labradoodle dog breeds are considered energetic dogs which means that they need to be physically and mentally stimulated to avoid whining, anxiety, and destructive behaviors. Both breed types need heavy socialization from an early age to further prevent behavioral problems. Labradors and Labradoodles need around the same amount of daily exercise, with adult Labradors needing at least 60 minutes. Labradoodles need a range of 30 to minutes which averages 60 minutes. Exercise can include jogs, two long walks, playing in the yard, or a mix of all three. Keep in mind that these are just averages and what your dog need may differ based on age, size, and temperament. Health: Labrador vs. Lifespan Both Labradors and Labradoodles are large-breed dogs, meaning their life expectancy is typically a couple of years shorter than smaller breeds. A healthy Labrador may have a life expectancy between 10 and 12 years , with 11 years being average. Similarly, a healthy Labradoodle will typically live between 12 and 14 years , with an average of 13 years. Health Problems Some common health conditions that may affect Labrador Retrievers are joint issues like: Canine hip and elbow dysplasia Osteochondritis dissecans Patellar luxation when the knee cap rides outside the femoral groove Some common health conditions that may afflict the Labradoodle hybrid breed are issues that affect both Labradors and Poodles, such as: Hip dysplasia. I went to meet Mike to talk about an upcoming litter and Bailey was sitting by herself. I pretty much changed my mind and wanted her immediately. She was introduced to a 6 year old cocker spaniel with and IVDD condition and they became best friends. Great Temperament, Incredibly smart and absolutely beautiful addition to my family. Mike has been following up since I got her checking to see if I had any issues. His training packet was detailed and if you follow the crate training and feeding regiment you will have no problems. Angelica I brought home an F2 labradoodle from here. My pups has already learned several commands within a few weeks of having him. The breeder has plenty of space for the pups and you can tell that there is a lot of care put into the environment. My dog has a great temperament and deals with people well. Upon the first meeting my pups was excited to greet people you can tell he had been socialized well. Mike does well with communication and answers any questions. Highly recommended! Javier Sanchez Got my black lab from Mike trained. He is very good and is comfortable with a crate, walking and great temperament. Overall an awesome dog from a great breeder! Maura Eaton My 12 year old son did all the research on Mike and his company. He had 5 star reviews across the board. Once we saw the picture of Zoey, a Chocolate Labradoodle, we knew we had to meet her. Mike's business is clean, the dogs are all loved by him and well trained. Zoey was Stage 1 trained. This is my first dog as an adult and Mike was excellent in providing advice and recommendations. After we adopted Zoey, Mike would periodically check-in on how Zoey was adjusting to her new family and home. As you can see in the pictures, she is very happy. Mike knew her personality well - smart, sweet and social. A perfect fit and addition to our family. He worked on training with the puppy before we brought him home, which was a big help in the adjustment! I would recommend Mike to anyone looking for a labradoodle puppy. Our puppy has been the best addition to our family and we have enjoyed working with Mike. John Schmadeke We were looking for a labradoodle puppy from a reputable and experienced breeder. Mike was super helpful, and we really appreciated that he cared so much about things like genetics and DNA testing for the dogs. Mike has always been available to answer our questions and to give advice. Tom Riniker We found Mike to be very professional, knowledgeable, and helpful when we purchased a puppy from him. His kennels are clean and organized, and his puppies are well cared for. He really loves his career and it shows! He has followed up with us on numerous occasions regarding the health and well-being of our puppy, and I always know I can reach him if I have questions. Thanks for everything, Mike! Yunhua Chen I have bought a stage 2 F1 labradoodle from Mike. His name is Zen, and just like his name, he is a well-behaved and well-trained little man. He only cried about 15 - 30 minutes during the first few nights and later he was sound asleep. I highly recommend Mike as a breeder because not only he deeply cares about the dogs, but also he has the expertise to make the dog the perfect match for you. Michelle Balchunas Mike was absolutely wonderful to deal with and very helpful with adding a new puppy to our family. If you are looking for a lab to add to your family we would highly recommend working with Mike. Charles Arnold Mike was a great help with our new puppy, Archie. Great experience… and a great dog. Junie is gentle, kind and very loving. She's also extremely athletic and smart. Working with Mike was a very smooth process and his "dog siting" service has proved helpful as I do travel on occasion. Having someone I could trust to care for Junie is super helpful. Mike James I recently had the fortunate privilege of working with Mike to find my next pup. For multiple reasons, the breed is perfect for me - the temperament, lifestyle often on the water , and hypoallergenic fits a tough lifestyle. I without hesitation recommend you work with Mike if you are looking for an amazing pup and great support network. Charlie is so gentle. He was just outside getting petted by his fan club, the neighbors. He licks. I got him the week of July 4th he was outside during that noise. He looks at noise. One of his other puppies was the same way, gentle. Day one he knew the trail through the woods back to our house. Charlie is a beautiful Chocolate lab with the softest hair. I got him at 16 weeks. You have no idea how helpful that is. Of course you want a healthy dog. Took the shots like a champ. The Vet remarked how firm his joints were. Yes he lets you brush his teeth! He goes to the door when he has to go. Another reason I wanted a 16 week pup. Peanut butter to continue gentle licks on my fingers. He always gets small chicken or liver for COME. You should see him come. Is Charlie gentle because some hunting dogs have a gentle mouth or is he gentle because Mike treated him right? Oh do exactly as Mike says on the take home instructions, he knows his dogs! Highly recommend! We brought our pup home with all the documentation of his superior genetics. Mike also sends several handouts which help prepare you for puppy ownership and ensure a smooth transition for your pup to his new home! In addition to his exceptional breeding he is exceptionally well-trained. We opted for a stage 2 puppy and not only does he sit, lay down, stay, he has an incredibly calm demeanor and his additional exposure to other dogs was also incredible. He is so well-tempered and well-behaved due to his additional training. We are so happy and in love with our sweet boy! Brent Viditz-Ward We were looking for a chocolate lab puppy for a long time from a reputable breeder and our experience with Mike was wonderful. He took time to get to know us and make sure that the dog was going to a good home and is always available to answer questions, give advice, etc. I highly recommend Mike and his puppies! M Fowkes Mike is a fantastic breeder. We got an F1 puppy from Mike. She is a sweet beautiful girl. Before she was born Mike knew what the puppies would look like generally, and was really easy to communicate with. He is very responsive when I had a lot of questions. He is like that even now that my puppy is 4 months old…available to answer questions and be supportive. Josie Palma-Aurelio We stumbled on this website when we were looking for our next fur baby. All the reviews speak truthful about Mike. He calls us to check on Nala for updates and gives us pointers on how to take care of her. Nala is such a lovable puppy and we are so happy to have her. We highly recommend! Juan Tellez Mike was a great helping my family and puppy get adjusted to our home. You can tell Mike has a lot of dedication and love towards his dogs. Snoop has been a great addition to our family! We are first time pet owners and Mike handheld us through the entire adoption process. His reference material, responsiveness and his genuine care for the puppies has helped us navigate the critical period of 12 weeks smoothly. The puppy is super smart outwitted me in a game of hide n seek when he was 10 weeks old! He is a bundle of joy! We are first time pet owners and had a lot of questions! He is always enthusiastic in answering any questions we have and supporting us before and after getting the pup! He cares about his dogs and pups and it shows in the research he has done and the knowledge he has about them! He has a lot of information on his website about the breed, food, toys and snacks! He also gives a couple of handouts when we book a pup with him and some when we take them home! Those helped a lot in the preparation for our pup! When you take them home, he also gives you details about the breed, vaccination records, and DNA testing done for the litter! Our girl, Shuri, is very energetic and curious! She does really well when we train her and has already learnt so much! For anyone looking for a labradoodle, Mike is the best! Jocelyn I highly recommend Mike. We are first time dog owners and he made the process so easy for us. Our labradoodle has made an excellent addition to our family!

Looking for Pet Home Only, Very friendly great with other dogs and kids. .Very playful puppies last 2 from litter. She is very playful and active but also sleeps a lot during the day and sleeps all night in her crate. She has been dewormed and has received her first round of shots. Pick up from our home is available as well as delivery within Ventura County for an additional fee. Sorry we cannot offer shipping at this time. Buy Now Olde English Bulldogge Puppies We named this puppy Mama Gray because when she was born she was almost gray in color but now has turned much more tan in color. She is slightly shy but also very playful and active. She sleeps a lot during the day and sleeps all night in her crate. Her black has since turned into a dark brindle, just like her mom. She is very cuddly and loves to be held but also very playful and active. Loki is a beautiful and loving 4-year old Olde English. He is very low maintenance and will love you to death. He wants to hang out where you are, sleep where you sleep, and eat what you eat. He has a muggish face, but has never showed aggression towards myself or anybody that has met him. The reason that I need to give Loki up is because I have been fostering him over the past few months following my Aunts passing. Over time, it has become increasingly more difficult as I am a young adult in a young city with an active lifestyle. Although he doesn't need to much attention, I live in an apartment where I have to take him out to go potty. This tends to hinder some plans as it is unfair to him when I am out and about on the weekends. Buy Now Litter of 7 This litter is very colorful. I have a blue merle tri, a lilac, merle tri, three sables, and a chocolate, and a blue try. Prices range. Fully registered and. Will be ready in July. Taking deposits now. Contact Alisa at xxx-xxx-xxxx. Buy Now Puppies for sale Hello they are pure bred puppies and on are disciplined easy to train puppies. Please email me at xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. They are loving and affectionate. Great looking pup but an even better looking adult im sure. She needs more house room than we have in a small apt. She walks great on and off leash, and great with other dogs. View Detail Quality Bulldogg puppy Quality olde english bulldogg puppy. Papers, pictures and certified bloodline. Very loving and really really great looking puppy and i believe even better looking when grown to adult. Lilac and perfectly trimmed with white. This price is already discounted. One of the parents on the premises. Have any other questions please contact me by text or call xxx xxx-xxxx Mike. Thank You. We own both parents and are looking for them to go to a forever home! Playful and loving squishy puppies! Please do your research on Old English Bulldogs before inquiring Bulldogs need lots of attention and love. We need to find homes for them which is why we are lowering price so that someone would be willing to take them in. We have 5 puppies left for their forever home! They are 12 weeks. They have their first two shots and have been dewormed. Please call or email! We are willing to FaceTime you to give you live look at the puppies in their element. Mom and dad on premises. We have 5 puppies left and available for their forever home! They are friendly and ready to go to the forever home!! No papers but have mother and father on site and are full breed so they are NOT mixed at all. These are Olde English Bulldogges! Please call xxxxxxxxxx ask for Domingo. Or email inquiries at xxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Happy healthy family raised, family temperament with traffic stopping looks. This is Biggie , She has 8 other brothers and sisters. She is one of biggest girls in the litter and the last born. She is chocolate tri. Will be available the week of June 14th. Will be dewormed , and have her first vet visit at six weeks for his shots along with a health record. Any questions please feel free to contact me. Please contact me at xxx xxx-xxx0 I included some pictures of there parents. I will be adding new pictures each week as they grow. This is Pecas. He has 8 other brothers and sisters. He has a perfect chocolate heart on his butt. Will be dewormed , and have his first vet visit at six weeks for his shots along with a health record. This is Nipsey Hustle Born He has 8 other brothers and sisters. His eyes are just starting to open up and is white with a chocolate lilac tri Merle face and patches. Please contact me at xxx xxx-xxx0 I will be adding new pictures each week as they grow. I included some pictures of there parents. This is Coco, Born She has 8 other brothers and sisters. Her eyes are just starting to open up and is a gorgeous lighter side of lilac or chocolate tri. Will be dewormed , and have her first vet visit at six weeks for her shots along with a health record. Their body is stocky with well-developed muscles and short legs which gives them a clumsy look. They have a big broad head having a wide forehead and an arched neck. In addition to this, their coat is very short, fine and shiny. The temperament of the English bulldogs is quite dependable as they are gentle family dogs that excel around children. Although they are slow movers at the same time, they have the ability to overpower any intruder who might come looking for trouble. English bulldogs are some pretty funny looking creatures with their unique features that are quite distinct from other dog breeds. They have huge loose skin under their face that forms many air filled sacks over their muzzles, under eyes and even under their jowls giving them a unique appearance. This feature has made them perfect to play as Rosie the bulldog in the famous cartoon series The Bullwinkle Show. Another feature which makes them differ from other dog breeds are their foreshortened limbs, sparse coat and lack of tail. Where Are English Bulldogs Bred? English Bulldogs do not have a very big population all over the world including California CA. Therefore, it is recommended that you plan your purchase before visiting one of them so that you can ask all sorts of questions regarding the bulldog. You should inquire about the living conditions and preferences of a typical English Bulldog as these dogs have short muzzles which makes breathing a bit harder for them. They should be ideally kept indoors where fresh air can be easily circulated around their bodies to avoid respiratory issues occurring later on in life as well as overheating during hot summer days. It is also important to ensure cleanliness around their ears as they can suffer from many skin infections if proper care is not taken from time time. Visit Your California English Bulldog Breeder in Person English Bulldogs are a very unique breed and can be identified easily with their protruding lower jaws, wrinkled foreheads and the loose skin on their face. These dogs do not shed much hair and need to be brushed occasionally to remove dead hairs from their coats. If you really want to buy an English Bulldog in California CA, it is recommended that you get ready beforehand so that you will have a good checklist of things to discuss with your breeder. A great way to receive references would be to ask the breeder about other buyers he has served in the past and you can also collect some information about their experience through third party sources and online community forums. English Bulldogs have been quite popular throughout history and they have been used in dog fights for decades. Even though times have changed now, some people still raise these dogs for fighting which is not at all right. If you purchase an English Bulldog from a reputed breeder in California CA, you can be sure that it is not raised for fighting and will always remain happy. English Bulldogs can become really sick if they do not receive proper medical care. In fact, most veterinarians suggest that owners of this breed carry out regular health checkups with their dogs to avoid any major issues from occurring later on in life. Before you finalize a deal with an English Bulldog breeder in California, it is important to check how many of these dogs has the breeder bred till date. A responsible breeder would never compromise on the quality of their dogs for the sake of making a profit and would always breed a limited number of puppies each year. These dogs need a lot of care and attention, so it would be a good idea to have a crate ready for them to sleep at night or when you will not be around. If you do not have a crate within your reach, the bulldog breeders in California CA can even help you out with this and you can check out the bulldog ads on the internet for more information. You should also measure your house to make sure that the dog will be comfortable living there. Proper exercise is another aspect that needs to be taken care of if you are looking forward to have a healthy English Bulldog. In fact, some of these dogs get overweight quite often due to lack of exercise and unhealthy food. If you have a huge backyard or a park near your house, you can allow the dog to run around for some time. However, if you are living in an apartment, it is best that you take out time to walk your pet every day as this breed needs lots of physical activity if it has to live a healthy life without any major problems. These dogs are really stubborn and it can be quite difficult for them to learn the difference between a bathroom and other parts of the house. You can use a crate or a small room for this purpose when you will not be around and praise the dog when it does its business in that area of the house. It is best to keep lots of chew toys, balls and other accessories ready for your pup so that it does not get bored. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Latest Dog Articles Yorkshire Terrier: Diseases Yorkshire terrier is breed of dogs that won the hearts of many lovers of four-legged friends. Could it be the other way? Today, in the bustling world we are looking for a small outlet. Yorkshire Terrier is an excellent creature: a small size, does not she The first pregnancy of the she-dog If you decided your favorite pet to have an offspring, be responsible in such a case. To do this, follow simple rules that will help her to get healthy offspring without problems, and do not forget to visit the vet. Estrus and mating During estrus you need Dog's training: basic rules of success Dog and owner relationship is a set of complex and fitness of their characters. You have to get in contact with your new pet and it happens in different ways with each dog. You can immediately begin to squeeze one dog and to keep distance from the other o Proper care of a puppy If a person has a puppy of small breed it is easier to take care of it. For this, you will need a small comb and brush. If the four-month-old puppy has outgrown adult lapdogs and continues to grow rapidly, now during the walk, you will have to deal with i Most common digestion puppy's diseases We don't like to think of our new puppy falling sick with puppy disease. But youngsters get sick quicker and take longer to get well than adults. It's vital to recognize sick puppy behavior, signs and symptoms of puppy illness, and how to know when you ca How to Defend Yourself against a Mad Dog According to World Health Organization about citizens require emergency care treatment on a daily basis for dog bite injury. Also, about 4. Now, those are insanely alarming statistics. But they are tru please choose. English Bulldog Puppies English bulldogs are among the most well-known breeds of bulldogs in the United States and arguably the world. According to rankings by the American Kennel Club in , this breed is the number 2 in the option for families to buy amongst a selection of dog breeds. These bulldogs have a long history stemming from their original use for bull baiting in Britain. Many people still see these as an old English bulldog and a cultural icon, and it is one of the most popular dogs you will see in England. They do have fierce determination, persistence and an underrated strength, and these are part of why many people love them so much for a family companion. British bulldogs naturally have wide heads and shoulders, flat faces covered with skin folds and thick flaps, and a shorter and higher muzzle than many other dogs. Their thick facial skin folds are also present under their neck, and their pointed teeth and endless snorting constitute a significant factor in the fierce and sometimes scary look they have become known for. So why should you go for an English bulldog? What exactly makes them so special and wonderful anyway? Well, here are a few things we love about this breed of bulldogs. The first and most important benefit to us is that English bulldogs are very good guard dogs. Despite their relatively small size, these dogs are not to be underestimated. Their aggressive nature from their history of bull baiting has been passed down from generation to generation of bulldogs, making them mean fighters to intruders. These dogs do not hesitate to leap into action and defend their owners when there is a threat. Another big benefit is that they are family-friendly and safe to be around your children. Despite the strength and aggression they show to outsiders, you can be sure that your well-trained English bulldogs are perfect family friends that can be around your children with low chances of danger. This very tolerant breed loves to keep a quiet and watchful eye over its owners and is very good at informing you when they sense something wrong. Their short, stubby legs also make for some very funny moments, such as their clumsy efforts to climb onto surfaces, like your couch or their dramatic pouts and faces. English bulldogs have a natural pranking streak that makes you laugh effortlessly. Coming home to unwind and having an English bulldog waiting for you to home is a definite stress reliever and mood elevator. We need to rectify that, and we have the perfect English bulldog puppies for sale for you to make your pick from. With an English bulldog puppy, you can have that beautiful bully that your kids can grow up with, and that can be a perfect companion and guard for your home. All our English bulldogs are the healthiest and cutest selection of breeds that you will find in the country, and this is a fact. We have decades of veterinarian experience and expert knowledge in this breed that has helped us monitor and facilitate the best studs and breeders to produce these beautiful English bulldog puppies. We have male and female English bulldog puppies, and there are a variety of ages that you can pick from, whether you like an eight-week-old puppy, ten-week-old puppy, week old puppy, or even older. Frequently Asked Questions How much exercise do English bulldogs need? English bulldogs are a low-energy breed and do not require a lot of exercise. A daily walk or play session of minutes should meet their physical needs. However, due to their short snouts, English bulldogs are prone to overheating, so it's important to avoid strenuous exercise or exercise in hot weather. Indoor play, such as fetch or tug-of-war, can provide them with physical and mental stimulation. Regular exercise is vital for their overall health and well-being. How to train an English bulldog puppy? Train an English bulldog puppy with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Early socialization and obedience training are important. Avoid punishment-based training. Find a trainer who understands the breed and its unique needs. Consistency and patience are key to success in training an English bulldog puppy. What are the key features that make Bulldogs special? Bulldogs are notable for their unique physical appearance, friendly and affectionate nature, and loyalty. They are low-energy and good with children, making them popular family pets. Their wrinkly faces and undershot jaw give them a distinct look, while their muscular build and confident attitude make them recognizable and loved by all. Where can I buy an English bulldog? English bulldogs can be purchased from various sources, including breeders, pet stores, and animal rescue shelters. When buying from a breeder, it's important to find a reputable one that's committed, knowledgable, follows ethical breeding practices, provides information about the dog's health temperament, and offers a written guarantee.

The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. The nutrients needed in a puppy's diet There are a range of vital nutrients that your puppy needs during the first months of life to aid healthy growth and development. A puppy's diet must be able to provide enough energy and quality protein to support growth and be easily digestible. We develop our foods in close collaboration with breeders, vets and nutritionists. As well as focusing on the exceptional nutritional quality of our formulas, we also ensure the following key factors. To make our formulas as appealing as possible, we: Select ingredients rigorously for their odour, density and texture as well as nutritional quality. Design kibble texture, shape and size to suit each size of dog. Preserve formulas. So we ensure our formulas are highly digestible to help avoid stomach upsets and make it easier for your puppy to absorb the nutrients. Discover View the products How much should I feed my puppy? Puppies have different nutritional needs according to their breed and eventual adult size. Ask your vet for help checking the expected adult weight of your puppy according to their breeding. You can then choose the right food for them and make sure you give it to them in the right quantities. What are the size categories for dogs? Dogs are categorised in five different sizes: X-small — up to 4kg when adult Small — up to 10kg when adult Medium — 11kg to 25kg when adult Large — 26kg to 44kg when adult Giant — over 45kg when adult Why is puppy food tailored to adult dog sizes? Breeds of different sizes have different needs as puppies. Medium breeds tend to be more active outdoors so need plenty of energy and helping building their natural defences. Large and giant breeds grow slower and need less energy per kilo of bodyweight than small breeds. What if I give food designed for different sized breeds? Underfeeding can lead to issues including malnutrition and stunted growth. While overfeeding can make your puppy overweight, which can cause painful bone and joint problems, difficulty breathing and more. Does portion size matter for puppies? This is particularly crucial for large breed dogs, as overfeeding can cause them to grow too quickly and develop skeletal problems. Always refer to the portion recommendations on the pack and weigh each meal carefully. Smaller breed dogs reach adulthood sooner than others, so they can move to fewer meals a day at an earlier stage. To help them feel secure, and avoid upsetting their digestion, give them the same food, preferably at the same times, in the same place, using the same bowl. What is mixed feeding for puppies? Mixed feeding is when you give your puppy a combination of wet and dry food — either at the same time or at separate meals. You can try adding the wet as a topper to the kibble or feed in a separate bowl. They both offer important benefits such as wet food helping with hydration and appealing to picky eaters. While dry food can slow down fast eaters. Palatability Our wet formulas are designed to be highly appealing to the fussiest of puppies. When should I begin mixed feeding? Puppies can start mixed feeding at any time, but introducing them to variety at an early age may avoid fussy behaviour in adulthood. A dog's digestive tract becomes accustomed to the composition and type of food. The amount your puppy needs to drink depends on factors including the environmental temperature and their size, exercise levels, physical condition and diet. The best way to ensure your puppy drinks the right amount is to give them constant access to fresh water. Change the water in their bowls daily to keep it clean and top it up throughout the day. Also wash their bowls daily to prevent parasites breeding in them. Then they always have the opportunity to drink in a quiet place. And avoid plastic water bowls as they can harbour off-putting smells and bacteria — ceramic or stainless steel bowls are best. Here are some good habits to establish straightaway to help your puppy build positive associations with feeding times and get the nutrients they need. What How Maintain portion control To avoid overfeeding your puppy, check the dietary guidelines on the food packaging and measure each portion carefully. Remember the stated amounts apply for the whole day, not per meal. Giving your puppy scraps or hand feeding can also cause bad behaviour. Limit how many you give and always offer them at the right time for the right reason. Limit activity before and after feeding To prevent stomach upsets, try to avoid your puppy jumping about for an hour or two after eating. Keep feeding times calm Distractions can put your puppy off their food, so keep their feeding area quiet. Set the pace If your puppy bolts their food, try a slow-feed bowl or feeding puzzle. Make sure you choose the right puppy food according to their expected adult size and always follow the portion recommendations on the pack. When should I stop feeding puppy food? For smaller breeds this can be as early as eight months, but for larger breeds it can be up to two years. When can puppies eat dry food? Puppies can start to eat dry kibbles when weaning, which begins at around four or five weeks. What foods are poisonous for a puppy? Many of the foods that are healthy or enjoyable for us can be poisonous for dogs and puppies. Is homemade food better for puppies? It also perishes faster and tends to be more expensive and time-consuming to make. This is important to know as both can cause health issues. Your vet can show you how to score your puppy. Do puppies need supplements? Should dogs and puppies only eat meat? Although dogs are often considered to be carnivores, they would eat their prey whole in the wild. By eating the guts of their herbivorous and omnivorous prey, they would eat some vegetable matter too. Puppy feeding quiz Test your knowledge and find out how much you've learnt by taking our quiz Start the quiz How often should you feed a three month old puppy? Once a day Three times a day Correct! For all breed sizes, three month old puppies require three equally sized meals a day. Puppies are unable to regulate their food intake, so more regular, smaller portions are gentler on their digestive system. Next question Go back Wrong For all breed sizes, three month old puppies require three equally sized meals a day. Next question. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.