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My Josephine just turned 6 months old.This forum is an excellent resource with lots of loving EB parents on it with lots of good advice learned the hard way a lot of the time. This is what I found worked for Josie, and your puppy will let you know what works for him as well. Josie sleeps in a crate in my bedroom so I can hear her, she can hear us and know she is not alone but she is safe while I am sleeping. They don't know chewing on the electric cord will hurt them, or not to pee on the floor. They also get scared they have just lost everything they know and will look to you for comfort and attention. Give him lots of snuggles and love to reassure him that you will always be there for him. The first night home Josie cried and cried so I got up with her and held her on my chest so she could hear my heartbeat. She settled down and fell asleep. She needed this done a few times that first week. At first she woke me up every 2 hours all night long, just like a newborn human. I would take her outside, give her a snuggle then put her back in her crate. I was sooooo tired those first weeks, I thought many times I can't do this, but over time 2 hours became 3 then 4 then a whole night through. When that happens the angels sing and the sun shines and you look in the mirror in the morning and think not bad. Josie still likes to get up early, around 6 am, but my husband is up early too so I simply get up take her outside then deposit her with Daddy for some cuddles and playtime while Mommy goes back to bed for another hour or so. Get an xpen or even a baby playpen, it will save your sanity and your house. Make it a safe fun place for him to be. A few safe toys, chew bone, water, etc. Your puppy needs to go out every hour, like clock work. His bladder is very tiny and he doesn't realize yet that he can hold it. Over the next few weeks start with every hour then when he makes a few days with no accidents go to an hour and 15 do a few more days or a week then add a bit more time. It really helps to keep a book, game or something near where you want him to go since at first he will explore and play not realizing you want him to go potty. Watch him and learn his signs for getting ready to go then praise him like there is nothing greater in the planet than his going then and there. Those first couple of months I spent so much time watching and waiting for her to go potty I felt kind of weird being so obsessed with her bodily functions but you kind of have to be to get control of them. It's helpful to have a command that you always use when he is about to go. We use Go Potty Josie. She will squat on that command now. So pick a command and say it every time he gets ready to go potty. There will be setbacks. I had the hardest time with Josie getting excited during play time and leaking a little piddle, she didn't even seem to realize she was doing it. To control this we changed where and how she was played with and we would take her outside more frequently so her bladder was empty. There is A LOT of trial and error, what works form on puppy doesn't always work for another. You will learn your puppies signals, likes, dislikes and needs and eventually it gets easier. I would highly recommend removing anything and everything you don't want, peed on, chewed on, puked on, etc from the vicinity because trust me the one thing you don't want any of that to happen to it's a guarantee it will. I still have baby gates on all my stairs, rooms shut off so she can't go into them, etc. The world is a huge wonderful place for your puppy to explore and he has time to go slowly and start small like one or 2 rooms then slowly expand his world. He needs to learn this is my home aka crate so I don't potty here, then this room is my crate so I don't potty here, then these 2 rooms are my crate so I don't potty here, until he understands the whole house is his crate and he only potties outside it. Good luck, backtrack a bit and start over setting up a schedule and boundaries, and you will do just fine. It's okay to be overwhelmed every new mother is and that's what you are a new fur mommy with a new fur baby. Cherish every moment they grow so fast! Contact Why Do Bulldogs Cry? There are multiple reasons that a Bulldog might whine and steps you can take to not leave yourself in emotional distress over your dog. Why do Bulldogs cry? Normally, if your bulldog is whining or crying they are trying to communicate something to you. They could be telling you that they are hungry, lonely, in pain, or that they need to use the restroom. Whatever the case, you need to learn their signals so that you can help your pet. Here are some reasons your bulldog might be crying: Hungry or thirsty They need a bathroom break They need more attention Something is causing them pain Your bulldog is going through separation anxiety Almost every reason that a bulldog is crying has a simple solution and can be helped and possibly fixed through the right methods. Try to figure out the cause through careful elimination. Bulldogs Cry to Communicate There are a lot of reasons a bulldog might be crying or whining. They are usually trying to communicate something that they need or want. Do they have enough water? Do they need to go to the bathroom? As a dog owner, you should try to become familiar with when and why your bulldog whines. If your bulldog is whining, it may be because it needs something from the list below. Then, you should probably get a feeding calendar and schedule. They need to be petted, hugged, cuddled, and played with. They need attention. Depending on their personality, they may need more or less, but they still need it. They might whine to let you know that an emergency is imminent. My brother has a small dog and I was staying at his house one time. He did his business, came inside, and was as quiet as can be. This whining might come at inconvenient times, but addressing it is better than letting the dog pee inside the house. If a dog is in pain, they will likely whine. Your Bulldog May be in Pain Animals can be in pain like the rest of all living things. The first indication that your bulldog is struggling and in pain is if they are whining. Vets may cost money, but your pet is worth taking care of the proper way. If they get a lot of attention all the time, they might become used to it. They will probably whine for a while, and this is fairly normal. The whining for attention will usually go away after they get back into their usual routine. Bulldogs, like most canines, do well with a schedule. Note: If you are never around, your pet may adjust and it may not. You may be annoyed by the whining, but your frequent absence may be a key reason for the whining. Dogs need attention! Both extremes are unhealthy for your canine and could cause them to whine for attention. Some are more sensitive emotionally and will need to be trained. You can train your animal to not whine when you leave. Here are some things that you can do to stop it: Get a sitter: Pay someone trustworthy to dog-sit your pup. This is the simplest way. Some people might think that this option coddles your pet too much. Keep a routine: As mentioned before, bulldogs do well with routine. The more consistent the routine, the better. This will help your pet not feel quite so lonely and they will be able to relax. You could also play a recording of you talking so they feel like you are there. This alerts them that something is wrong and that you might not come back. This is extremely hard, but it will help with the whining. Give a five-minute window, enough for them to calm down. Exploring the Delicious Diet of Turtles Then you calmly give them the love that they seek. Get a Thundershirt: A Thundershirt is an outfit that helps a dog stop whining. View Price on Amazon. Those are just a few suggestions you could use. Dogs are living creatures with feelings, and they are going to treat others as they have been treated. If you still have many questions about separation anxiety, your closest veterinarian is a good place for you to find more information. Sometimes Bulldogs are hard to read when it comes to their health and emotions. It will put your mind at ease and help your pet get the best help it can. Related Questions… How do I know if my dog is depressed? A dog will usually retreat and distance themselves just like a depressed person would do. Be sure to read Can My Bulldog be Depressed? Other common signs of depression are changes to eating habits, whining more, less social, less energetic, and lazier than usual. How long can a Bulldog be left alone? Post Views: 1, They also have short and fine coats, which make for a refined and neat appearance. However, this can cause your Frenchie to get cold in winter — or even when the air conditioning is in full-blasting mode during the summer. Dental problems, poor medication reactions, allergies, inappropriate diet, major changes in their environment — and other difficulties — can cause your Frenchie to cry. Unfortunately, Frenchies run a higher risk of suffering from allergies. In most cases, dust and pollen are the ones causing the problem. You can bet that your Frenchie will quickly figure out that crying equals attention — and will use it to their advantage. Even more so, like all dogs, Frenchies thrive on routine. And if your French bulldog is confused, you can expect some crying instead of typical barking. Not so much. So, is there anything you can do to stop your French bulldog from crying? As a matter of fact, yes — there is. Be sure to take your little friend to the vet so they can verify all is good health-wise. Since Frenchies are known for being a breed that cries and whines instead of barking, some of this behavior is expected — no matter what you do. However, you can minimize it by providing adequate socialization, exercise, and playtime. Do you have a crying Frenchie at home? Feel free to share your tips on how to keep Frenchies quiet and content! When not writing, he enjoys hiking and time in nature with his pets. To be honest, it was heart-wrenching and tiring, but it is an essential part of them adapting to your home as well as their crate training. The bottom line is; French Bulldog puppies do cry when they are taken from their mother and siblings, and they will cry in the crate for some time. You need to weather the storm, accept the lack of sleep, and persevere with it. In this guide I am take you through the steps to cope with the whining and crying, whilst you get your new Frenchie puppy settled into his new home and crate training routine. But first, just a little bit about Frenchies and crying. Why do French Bulldogs cry? They will cry for attention, when they want feeding, or if they need to go to the toilet. It is also related to separation anxiety read more on this when left alone. It can sometimes look a red or brown color, seeping from their eyes. Eye allergies: An allergic reaction can also lead to watery discharge from their eyes, which can look like tears and crying. French Bulldog puppies are even bigger criers, particularly in the first 4 weeks you have them at their new home. Frenchie puppies will also cry when you first start them getting used to sleeping and staying in their crate. Do French Bulldogs cry tears? French Bulldogs do have tear ducts, but they work in a very different way to human ones. Rather than the tears running from their eyes, the actually drain back into the nasal cavity… which is why blocked tear ducts result in what look like tears. Do French Bulldogs Scream? Some Frenchies can make a whining and howling noise that does sound like a human scream, or even a baby screaming in some cases. When we bought our Frenchie home for the first time, he made a few screaming sounds on the first few nights. Not all of them will do this though as each dog will have their own tone of voice and mannerisms… I did find a Frenchie screaming on YouTube which is a great example. Do French bulldogs cry at night? French Bulldogs do cry at night when you first bring them home. Now let me share with you steps you can take to stop your French bulldog whining in their crate, no matter what their age. Firstly, why is your French bulldog puppy crying in his crate? There are a number of reasons, including: Your Frenchie is lonely: This is a classic crying scenario when dogs are used to being with their owner and are shut in a crate when you go out. Your Frenchie is scared: Older or rescue dogs can have negative connotations connected to the crate. Your Frenchie needs the toilet: Or it could be as simple as them needing to pee or possibly even vomit here are reasons why Frenchies can be sick. Please Note: French Bulldog puppies will cry in their crate for at least the first few days you have them. The steps below are best applied when the crying is problematic and longer term. Make the crate experience a positive and comfortable one To stop your French Bulldog puppy crying at night, make the crate as great an experience as you can. For example, you might want to place some interesting toys in there here are toys Frenchies love , make it cosy with blankets, and leave an appealing treat in there. At this stage in their life, puppies will start to teeth and hanker for anything chewable they can get their jaws around. Kong toys are great for this, and you can see which ones work really well in on this teething toys page. You should also try building up positive associations with the crate, and some puppy owners like to let theirs feed in there. Also place something that smells like you in there — it could be a cushion or a t-shirt with your scent on. But, by having the crate close to you during the puppy months, it does mean you will be alerted when they need a potty break. Use the right-sized crate When crate shopping, I always suggest going larger than you need because it can then be their crate and bed for life. Puppies need room to be able to move around, stand up, and turn to let them be comfortable and not feel caged. Make sure your Frenchie goes to the toilet first To really help minimize your French bulldog crying in his crate, make sure their bladder is as empty as possible before sleep time. However, with puppies, they will need the toilet constantly, and I remember this time with our Frenchie very well. Every hour I would take him out of the crate at night and take into our back-yard patio area. You can still expect some accidents though, which is why puppy pads are so essential. Again, you can buy puppy pads on Amazon — they are cheap when bought in bulk. Tire your Frenchie puppy out before crate time An over-excited puppy will not sleep and will cry more in his crate at night if he still has excess energy to burn. Frenchie puppies can tire really quickly, so it could just be a short walk out back or a game of tug of war. Older dogs will have more energy to burn, so give them a run out for 20 minutes before crate time. If you go to the crate every time he cries or whines, you are just reinforcing the behavior, and making him know you will always come and let him out. The difference between crying for attention and crying for the toilet But how do you know which cry is which? Over a week or so, your puppy should learn that crying gives him the toilet and nothing else. As frustrating as your French bulldog crying at night will be, never scold them. If your Frenchie is crying due to anxiety and fear, yelling will not help. Yes, he might stop crying in the short-term, but only because he is scared. The minute you do will put you back to square on. Conclusion Finally, if you cannot put a finger on why your French Bulldog is crying, and have ruled out the possibilities in this guide, please do consult with your vet. Frenchies are susceptible to a wide range of health problems listed all here and it could be a physical or behavioral issue. Pacing Whale eyes When they show the whites of their eyes Freezing or very stiff and tense body. Ask yourself: Is your Bulldog overwhelmed, or in a new situation? Is he not understanding you or something you are trying to teach or communicate? Did this come on suddenly, when someone or something came close? Can you figure out a way to remove the stimuli that are causing him stress in order to help him calm down? What to do: Try and change the environment. Be calm and reassuring. Make sure that you are clear with training and giving commands. Try to figure out the trigger and avoid it, or work on training to tolerate it better. Your Bulldog is Excited Bulldogs are courageous and loyal. They make great watchdogs and will happily take on a challenge. This means that they can go from resting to excited and lively in seconds flat. This breed exudes energy in the heat of the moment. At times they can also be high energy that can be perceived as excitement. How to Tell: Tail is wagging, running in circles, jumping up and down, barking. Displaying zoomies a sudden release of energy when your dog seems to go wild and is running around at high speed. Ask Yourself: What is your energy level? Have you just come home from work and they want to greet you? Maybe your Bulldog is meeting someone new or wanting to play. If you are feeling high stress or excitement your dog will feed off your emotion and most likely be showing that behavior as well. What to do: You can redirect his energy by taking him for a run, playing a game of fetch with a toy. Make sure that you have calm energy about yourself. Dim lights, or use some of this therapeutic aromatherapy spray from Amazon Affiliate link to help calm her down. Your Bulldog Wants Attention This is the 1 reason other Bulldog owners give for why their dog cries or whines. Raising and caring for a puppy is no easy task. Bulldogs can sometimes be even more challenging since they can build such strong attachments to their owners and because they are so smart they know how to tug at your heartstrings with their adorable little whimpers! How to tell: Similar to when they are excited, but more direct eye contact with you with intentions of trying to get something. Ask yourself: Has your dog had enough exercise and mental stimulation today. Most Bulldogs need at least 60 minutes of exercise a day as well as plenty of mental stimulation. What is he trying to get your attention for? Is it worth giving the attention or not? Is your Bulldog whining to get food? Check out this article I wrote to see why your Bulldog eats weird stuff! Do you have a new pet, person, or situation in your family? Perhaps your Bulldog is jealous? Remember you only want to reinforce behaviors you would like to see repeated. To truly get this behavior under control you need to completely ignore them. Your Bulldog Has Separation Anxiety For little dogs like our Bulldogs, they can easily get used to going everywhere with us. If your Bulldog is not prepared to handle the separation from you the crying can become extreme! How to Tell: Constantly jumps and whines for you to touch them pet them or cuddle them. Cries or howls when you leave them alone destroys things when you are gone, is overly excited when you return. Ask Yourself: How much exercise has my dog had today. How long have I been gone? Have I trained my dog to be ok without being near me every hour of the day? When you leave, make it subtle and no fussing or kisses goodbye. Make your return no big deal and ignore your pup until they are calm. I always say a tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Giving them something to do while you are gone like this chew toy or this puzzle toy from Amazon affiliate link can help a lot. Try not to leave your dog alone too long if you can manage it. Your Bulldog is Fearful Puppies are very impressionable and teaching them and socializing them starts in the very beginning stages of their life. Unfortunately, there are many people that run puppy mills link to information on how to stop puppy mills that are breeding Bulldogs purely for the money and do not take very good care of them when they are young. When a puppy starts their life in this type of environment it can be very damaging and set them up for a lifetime of fear or aggression. Thankfully there are things that you can do to help if you do end up with a puppy that has been treated this way, it will just be more difficult to get them feeling and behaving confidently. How to tell: Tucked tail, shaking, lowered ears and or head, trying to hide behind you or something else. Ask yourself: How was your Bulldog treated as a puppy? Is your Bulldog a rescue? Was your dog properly socialized when they were young? Does your dog get frightened when they hear a loud unrecognizable noise? What to do: If your dog seems overly fearful of many things and you suspect that your Bulldog is whining or crying a lot because of this, you will need to work very hard at building a solid foundation of trust between you and your dog. Once this foundation of trust is established it will be easier for you to teach your dog that the rest of the world is not as fearful as they suspect it may be. You may also need help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who has experience working with fearful dogs. They will help you come up with and implement a training plan. If you think their fear is a one-time circumstance that has been brought on by something unexpected in his environment, like sudden fireworks or the sound of a car misfiring, then you can isolate that particular thing and work towards training them to tolerate it. You could also try something like this anxiety wrap from Amazon affiliate link that has been useful for dogs afraid of loud noises like thunder. Your Bulldog is Bored When our dog Bear a Maltese Chihuahua mix gets playful he lets us know by barking and whining and begging us to play. Most dogs will let you know when they are tired of laying around not doing a whole lot. Bulldogs in particular love to be entertained and challenged. They were originally bred to hunt foxes so they love to play a game of fetch or do some scent work. How to tell: Short high pitched whines, usually accompanied by a sigh, may seem lazy or disinterested in their favorite toys or games. Ask Yourself: Again you need to think about how much exercise and mental stimulation your Bulldog is getting. Bulldogs do better when they have something to do to occupy their time. It helps if they are constantly learning new things. When was the last time you taught your Bulldog a new command, game, or trick? What to do: Provide your dog with some mental stimulation. Teach them some new tricks, work on training, or give them a fun new toy like this fun crinkle toy from Amazon affiliate link. Try not to leave all their toys available all the time. If you keep all but 2 or 3 put away and rotate them that will keep your Bulldog from getting bored too easily. You can also try this awesome program called Brain Training that can give you a huge boost in your training methods and plans. You may think getting your Bulldog another dog as a friend is a good idea, and it very well may help take the burden of entertainment off your shoulders, but before you decide to do that this article can help you think about the challenges versus benefits. Your Bulldog is in Pain Bulldogs need to be taken good care of especially as they age. They can be a healthy breed, but they can also have problems with their joints or hips or other health issues. If you have a rescue or your Bulldog is aging then pain or discomfort may be a reason your pup is whining. How to tell: Look for any kind of physical signs such as limping, constantly licking a sore area, or yelps and whines when picked up or moved. Ask Yourself: How old is my Bulldog? Has his energy been waning? Are there other red flags such as growling or biting when handled a certain way or untouched food? Has your dog had a recent dental exam. Poor dental health can cause pain for your Bulldog. What to do: If you suspect your dog is in pain take him to your vet right away. Why Is My Bulldog Limping? If your Bulldog Puppy is Crying You can expect Bulldog puppies will whine more than adult Bulldog, but puppies, in general, may whine for different reasons than adult dogs. The younger the puppy the more you can expect to deal with crying. If you are trying to crate train a puppy and he whines a lot when he is in his crate it is most likely because he is lonely and scared. Their sense of smell is 40 times better than ours and much more refined. We can use this power to our advantage in two ways. The second way this will benefit your Bulldog is it will allow the scent of his mother and littermates to get on the item so when you bring him home it will smell like them and help make the transition easier for him. Another great tool to help your little puppy miss his family less is to get a stuffy like this one from Amazon affiliate link that mimics the heartbeat of his mama. Having a comfort item like this can be extremely useful and can make a huge difference those first few weeks you have your new puppy. Make sure that he has his own area Crate or Playpen to stay in, this will help him feel more safe and secure. This small area with a crate inside will help your dog feel more safe and secure. The following article may help you decide. You can take him out for bathroom breaks, but when his bathroom break is over put him back in. If you get him out for a cuddle or let him sleep in bed with you, crate training is going to be a lot more difficult. Most Bulldog puppy owners said that they would let their puppy cry it out for min. Final Thoughts Whatever the reason for your Bulldog whining the best thing you can do is make sure that your dog knows you are in charge! If you continue to have problems with your Bulldog crying please seek help from a professional dog behaviorist or a vet. In the initial years, I spent many sleepless nights trying to figure out what lead to this behavior. This led to my quest to find an answer to the question — why do French bulldogs cry so much? One of the major reasons for the French bulldog puppy crying is the separation from their mom. They do cry in their boxes for a while. You have to endure the hardship, acknowledge the absence of rest, and continue with it. In this guide, I find a way to adapt to the whimpering and crying while getting your new French bulldog puppy subsided into his new home and preparing schedule. Here is what I found; why do French bulldogs cry so much? Why do French Bulldogs Cry so Much? They will sob for consideration when they need to take care of or if they have to go out to empty their intestine. Sometimes nervousness is the reason behind their sobbing. It can, at times, look a red or earthy colored tone, leaking from their eyes. Eye sensitivities A hypersensitive response can likewise prompt watery release from their eyes, which can look like tears and crying. They are in another climate without the security of their mother. French Bulldog will likewise cry when you first bring them home and get them accustomed to sleeping and remaining in their box. Do French Bulldogs Sob Tears? French Bulldogs do have tear channels, yet they work in an altogether different approach to humans. Instead of the tears running from their eyes, they channel into the nasal cavity. This is the reason hindered tear conduits bring about what resemble tears. Canines have different methods of demonstrating feeling. Do French Bulldogs Scream? Some French Bulldogs can make a crying and yelling clamor that seems like a human shout, or even an infant shouting sometimes. When we purchased our French bulldog home unexpectedly, he made a couple of shouting sounds on the initial barely any evenings. However, not everyone will do this as each canine will have their manner of speaking and characteristics. French Bulldogs do cry around evening time when you initially bring them home. Initially, for what reason is your French bulldog doggy crying in his carton? Or then again, it could even be a grown-up French bulldog. There are various reasons why do French bulldogs cry so much, including: Being Desolate: This is an ideal crying situation when canines are accustomed to being with their proprietor and are closed in a container when you go out. Being frightened: Older or salvage canines can have negative undertones associated with the box. Kindly Note: French Bulldog young doggies will cry in their carton for at any rate the initial not many days you have them. The means beneath are best applied when the crying is dangerous and longer-term. For instance, you should put some fascinating toys in there, make it comfortable with covers, and leave a tempting treat in there. At this stage in their life, young doggies will begin to teeth and desire for anything chewable they can get their jaws around. Likewise, you ought to take a stab at working up sure relationship with the Container, and some doggy proprietors like to give their feed access there. Likewise, place something that scents like you in there — it could be a pad or a shirt with your aroma on. If you are still wondering — why do French bulldogs cry so much? Then try to keep them nearby. Size of the Box When box shopping, I generally recommend going bigger than you need since it would then be able to be their Container and bed forever. Pups need space to have the option to move around, stand up, and go to leave them alone agreeable and not feel confined. Notwithstanding, with young doggies, they will require to go potty too. I remember taking Fluffy out after removing him from the Container around evening time and taking into our backyard porch zone. In any case, you can anticipate a few mishaps, which is why little dog cushions are so basic. I recommend using Luckyiren Upgraded Puppy Bells to give him proper potty training.

Should an American Bulldog Mix take after their American Bulldog parent, they will be a large and lovable dog that is affectionate to their families. American Bulldogs tend to have a gentle nature, a sweet disposition, and a fun-loving, playful personality and you can expect something similar in an American Bulldog Mix. American Bulldogs are known for being absolute sweethearts and quintessential family dogs. They tend to love children and get along well with other dogs in the household. They also thrive on affection, bond strongly with their owners, and absolutely adore spending time with their families. Since they can be initially wary of strangers and can have a high prey drive, socialization early and often is important. You should be able to expect something similar in an American Bulldog Mix. Talking to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix and meeting the mother dog can give you a better idea of what temperament to expect in an American Bulldog Mix. The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed may affect this for an American Bulldog Mix, but you still want to be prepared for a moderately adaptable dog in case they take after their American Bulldog parent. Apartment living could be an option, but you would need to dedicate a lot of time daily to making sure they get the attention and exercise they need to be happy. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health conditions of one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. From the American Bulldog side, potential health conditions include eye-related issues, thyroid disorders, hip dysplasia, kidney issues, bone cancer, and elbow dysplasia. Knowing more about the other parent breed can give you a better idea of what to be aware of in an American Bulldog Mix. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing issues to puppies, so make sure you ask about the genetic and health history of both of the parent breeds. Because they are highly intelligent and eager to please their owners, American Bulldogs are highly trainable dogs that are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. But, the other parent breed could affect the trainability of an American Bulldog Mix, so you still want to ask the breeder about them. An American Bulldog Mix can inherit a coat similar to one parent breed or one that is a blend of both. But, the other parent breed could affect how much grooming your American Bulldog Mix needs. Also, practicing good dental care for dogs can help prevent dental diseases like gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. American Bulldogs are high-energy dogs that are athletic and strong. They need daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity. The other parent breed could affect how much exercise your American Bulldog Mix needs to be happy and healthy, but you will still want to be prepared to handle a high-energy dog. Fully-grown American Bulldogs tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed could have a big effect on the size of your American Bulldog Mix. By talking to the breeder about the other parent breed and meeting the mother dog, you can get a better idea of what size to expect as your American Bulldog Mix puppy grows. American Bulldogs tend to live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an American Bulldog Mix. Featured American Bulldog Mix Article. Lifespan Sociability As you know, Pitbulls have a bad rap. Both parent breeds are relatively healthy, with few glaring issues. They are reasonably friendly, which also helps. They are intelligent dogs, which means that you need to take an active role in providing enough exercise and diversion to prevent them from developing bad habits. They are relatively easy to care for and family-friendly. The downsides involve the size of the Bullypit, even if they can handle city life or apartment dwelling well. They make a good watchdog if just for their appearance. They actually love people, including strangers. Bullypits are easy to groom. They have a moderate tendency to be nippy but may have a higher propensity toward wanderlust, due to their history as a fighter. John D. Johnson, a returning war veteran, along with Alan Scott and several other breeders, took on the task to re-establish the breed. Their efforts resulted in several distinct bloodlines, the two best-known being the Johnson type, which had a bulkier, heavier frame and large head, and the Scott type, which was more athletic. Most modern American Bulldogs are a hybrid of these two original lines. The truth is that it is a reference to the early history of the English Bulldog, which references its history as bait for the animal in his name, bull. Their breeding reflects this unfortunate purpose. However, its early history tells a different story. He was a family dog that protected his family. They are kid-friendly, but the primary concern is their size—they can easily overwhelm a small child. They are, after all, a lot of dog! They may not realize their strength and can hurt smaller breeds seemingly unintentionally. They are more likely to injure another animal simply because of how big they are—even if there is no aggression behind the attempt. That same precaution applies to other family pets, like your cat. Instinct will drive them to run after any animal that flees them, regardless if they are part of the household. Many people view them as ferocious and dangerous animals, no matter how inappropriate the descriptor for your pet is. That can increase their risk of other chronic health conditions, such as diabetes. The best way to manage it is by providing regularly scheduled meals so that you can monitor his food consumption to match his activity levels. This hybrid is prone to obesity, so it behooves a pet owner to monitor his weight and adjust his diet accordingly. Daily walks are an excellent way to maintain his socialization skills and help him burn those extra calories. However, both parent breeds are playful, which can make it an easy task. That means a playful nature. You must approach training with a firm yet positive approach. Both parent breeds are sensitive to harsh reprimands. The Bull Terrier side of your pup has a higher degree of wanderlust and prey drive that you should also handle when he is young. Walking on sidewalks will wear them down to some degree. We recommend pre-health screenings for the hips and elbows by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. The correction of genetic defects is expensive and painful. We strongly recommend buying from reputable breeders who screen for the most common issues. Minor Conditions. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. I had gotten Caine when he was only 3 weeks old. He was so tiny. Hands down, this hybrid breed has got to be one of, if not the best crossbred ever. He's so protective of me and my loved ones. His personality is undescribable. No doubt about it, he's the best friend anyone can have. He loves to wrestle, his strenghth is amazing. When we go to the lake he tries his hardest to catch the ducks. He weighs about 80 lbs. She is an American Bulldog her dad and Pitbull Terrier her mom mix. She likes to explore and she bites everything and everyone including our other dog, Maye a 2-year-old Pitbull Terrier. She's already getting the hang of going to the bathroom outside and hasn't had any accidents in 2 days. His name is Sirus. He is 6 weeks old in these pics. He is a great dog, very energetic. We are toilet training him at the moment and we have had a few accidents. In addition, it does not shed like most crossbreeds do, marking for less maintenance and grooming required. Dog owners, especially the new ones, are expected to know more than just the essential traits and appearance of the pups they are choosing. It is likewise crucial for them to consider and recognize that with all excellent characteristics come to not-so-pretty ones, and that should not be a hindrance for them in planning to get one. Purebreds, unlike their crossbreed offspring, are not as healthy, but their crossbreed pups do inherit most of their most potent diseases and medical complications. One precautionary measure duly advised to clients and customers to make sure that disease-inheritance is taken to a minimum, if not appropriately avoided, is to be vigilant and careful in choosing Bulldog Pitbull Mix puppies that are for sale. This is crucial since it ensures that the buyer is making the right and just circumstances that are presented before them. In the bigger picture, the penultimate reason for avoiding such a purchase is that often these companies and pet stores conduct large-scale breeding of dogs. It is a method that is indeed far from being animal-friendly and ethical. In this practice, the health of the parent dog is not duly considered for the offspring. In other words, they breed dogs as they so please without taking health, food, and safety much into consideration. A respectable and reputable breeder is one who is transparent about their methods. It is crucial for you to check if the breeding facility is safe and spacious enough for the animals to roam around and have fun. You can ask them for a copy of the background data of each purebred parent and genetic mapping of the crossbreed offspring for reference. Here are some online sites to get you started on your pup search: Angel Heart Kennel LLC Across the state, you can only fin local breeders and animal shelters. Most likely, in one of these shelters, one might find a Pitbull Bulldog Mix looking for a lovely new home. Try opening www. As such, it is no wonder that the smooth and shiny coat of the Pitbull combined with Bulldog does not shed profusely and does not require high maintenance. Use a soft bristle brush at least once or twice a week, but no more than four days. However, during shedding season, the fur of the Bulldog crossed with Pitbull does shed quite often. When this occurs, it is recommended to brush their hair and coat daily. Instead, one can use a damp washcloth to wipe the dog every now and then. This method can help get rid of some loose fur and keep them clean. The full bath should be given only once a month since their coat needs all the natural oils on the skin. In any case, whether patting them down or bathing, the following vital areas need focus: Foot pads and paws Tail and the region around the anus Eye region, especially the eyelids As a common practice among grooming dogs, teeth brushing is required not only for good oral hygiene but especially for the prevention of irksome dental complications. Regularly check the ears for redness, wax buildup, and nasty ear mites. Note, however, that when trimming, one must practice care and accuracy to avoid complication and infection. The English Bulldog, having a life span of years, has many health concerns than most purebreds. Other dilemmas include hip dysplasia, screw tail, cherry eye, among others. The English Pitbull Terrier is the healthier dog parent in comparison. Also facing possible hip dysplasia concerns, this purebred is known to experience allergies, mange, and skin infections. As such, in an overview of things, the Bulldog mixed with Pitbull requires much medical attention and involves a ton of payment for vet bills. Depending on the favored parent, there is no telling if the crossbreed would face many or fewer complications. Prone to allergies, the Pitbull combined with Bulldog borrows its skin complication from the Pitbull parent. Prevention of these diseases means regular washcloth wiping and avoidance of typical allergen-containing and grainy food. Hip Dysplasia. A significant focus on diet and exercise is enough to help prevent this painful joint displacement. Heart disease. Any bull breed is known to face heart complications such as congenital heart disease among others. There is no sure fire way to prevent it other than early detection and treatment. Once found, divide the meal portions into at least two meals per day with equal serving. You can also incorporate giving of treats and scheduled feedings that and intertwined with free feeding at least once per week to keep things new for the pup. This is to ensure that your dog does not grow into being obese, which raises complication for hip dysplasia. Likewise, the right mix of minerals and vitamins must be consulted with the veterinarian. Depending on their recommendation, incorporate the intake of these supplements either to the food or medicine administration intermittently. For the Bulldog combined with Pitbull, owners should focus on purchasing dog food rich in chronodotin or glucosamine. These nutrients are crucial in preventing hip dysplasia complications. Luckily, the market is filled with high-quality dog food that one can easily find. You can even ask your local pet store or dog food provider for products with these specifications. Brown, black, white, or mix of these colors Suitable for: Active families with experience training dogs Temperament: Loyal, overprotective, intelligent These dogs make great pets for active families who know how to train a wild dog and are looking for a scary dog that acts like a dove. 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. Training, socialization, and exercise are important to ensure the well-being of this breed, as with any dog. Taking care of a Pitbull Bulldog mix requires a lot of time, patience, and effort, but can be a rewarding experience. To ensure the well-being of this breed, exercise is crucial, including daily walks, playtime and training. Training should start early and be consistent, as this breed can be stubborn and requires patience and positive reinforcement techniques. Socialization is also important, as this breed is friendly and affectionate, but early socialization can prevent behavioral issues. Always make sure that the puppy you buy is bred only from a reputable breeder who has no intention of fighting the dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? So, Bully Pits are not a good breed if you have young children in your home. Even if your Bully Pit is well behaved, these dogs can play a bit rough, even if they are just having fun. Once again, this can be a very dangerous situation for young children even if the Bully Pit loves the child. As soon as your children get around the age of 10 or older, Bully Pits can make great additions to homes. Although these dogs look scary, they are incredibly affectionate and cuddly. They love having a big family that can shower them in attention. As long as all the family members know how to behave around this dog and treat it with respect, both the family and the dog will likely feel at peace in no time. Unfortunately, Bully Pits are not good with other animals. You might be able to get a pet that stays in a cage or a tank. For example, many Bully Pit owners have lizards or fish. However, do not get another dog or cat because the Bully Pit is likely to get very territorial over you and the home. A post shared by Frankie Quarantino frankie. Bully Pits require strict diet requirements, a lot of exercise, and medical attention. One of the best ways to prevent these illnesses from being a problem is to provide the dog a correct diet. Most Bully Pits will need between 2. No matter what dog food you select, make sure it is high-quality and includes a few ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, chondroitin, and glucosamine. As your dog ages, you want to select a dog food that grows with it. Both Pitbulls and Bulldogs are active breeds. Every day, your Bully Pit should have around 90 minutes of exercise. If you do not fulfill this exercise requirement, your Bully Pit will likely become destructive out of boredom. Instead, you can opt for low-intensity walks and playing with toys inside the home. At the same time, active owners can always kick it up a bit by taking the dog on runs or playing fetch. It really depends on you since this dog is agile with some lazy streaks. Bully Pits are actually very intelligent animals that love their owners. That being said, Bully Pits that do not respect their owners are less likely to listen. You must be firm and consistent with your Bully Pit to demand attention. Once your Bully Pit views you as the alpha, training is actually very easy. If you are aggressive to Bully Pits, they will either lash out or cower away from you. Both situations are unwanted. Instead, use treats and praise to reinforce good behavior. Your Bully Pit will respond very quickly because they love pleasing their owners. This is likely a breath of fresh air after learning all the other high-maintenance aspects of this dog. At most, you should only need a damp washcloth to wipe down the dog whenever it gets dirty during play. Never give a Bully Pit a bath more than once a month unless it gets skunked or some other similar situation. Bulldogs can have some serious icky eyes, and that can be passed on to Bully Pits. Your Bully Pit may fight both grooming needs at first, but they cannot be ignored. Be gentle and allow your dog to smell both the clippers and toothbrush before touching their body with it. Bulldogs have several inheritable illnesses that Bully Pits are likely to take on. Luckily, Pitbulls are relatively healthy, causing Bully Pits to be more healthy than standard Bulldogs. If your Bully Pit favors the Bulldog parent, you should expect it to need more medical attention than a Bully Pit that favors its Pitbull parent. For Bully Pits that favor the Bulldog, it may have breathing issues and heart disease. You might also want to pay attention to its snout skin to make sure it is not infected. In contrast, Bully Pits that favor the Pitbull are more likely to have skin problems and allergies. No matter which dog your Bully Pit favors, hip dysplasia can be a serious issue. Hip dysplasia is an issue for both Pitbulls and Bulldogs. So, it is highly likely for a Bully Pit to experience this in their life. Minor Conditions.

How could you not love a baby with a smile as wide as her sweet face? Marge looks you straight in the eye and searches your face to see exactly how she can make you happy. She is working on sitting, staying, and lying down. Marge is so smart! Marge and her sister, Lisa, were abandoned on the side of the road with her sister Lisa. Someone just left them on the side of the road to die a harsh death. We tried our darndest to ignore their plight but when I drove by a second time and saw how terrified and hungry they were, we had to help. We brought them food and water in buckets and prayed they would be friendly since I had heard all the stories about pit bulls. I admit they were leery of us too but as soon as they had a few bites they became our best buddies. Marge was so thin, and something had caused some serious cuts and abrasions, but she has never even paused in her outpouring of love and gratitude. What a precious girl. Marge is especially intelligent and gentle and loves nothing more than sitting beside you, knowing you are near. Marge loves kisses and belly rubs, running wide open, and treats. She will make a devoted fur baby to a family that does not have cats or chickens. I do not know about other dogs, but it would be better to err on the cautiousAvailable dogs are met by appointment only and pre-approved adopters ONLY. Our dogs are currently in a foster homes which can answer your questions better than anyone else. The application is the first step. Volunteers process the applications and need time above their personal needs and full-time jobs to process the apps. Please have patience. We do not have any paid staff members. Russell Rescue will try to first place our rescue dogs locally or in surrounding states. Russell Rescue is not open to the public for visiting hours. We do not have a physical location of our own. September 14, , pm. Boxer puppies for sale Nashville, Tennessee Boxer puppies for sale Nashville, Tennessee Introduction of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed originated in Germany and has been around since the late 19th century. His main purpose is for hunting large game. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. It is said that he got his name due to using his front paws for just about anything. Boxer dogs look intimidating with their stern-looking faces and powerful bodies. But they are actually very loving family dogs that get along with children and other animals. They love being with their families, and being separated from them can lead them to develop separation anxiety. Since this working dog is highly intelligent but stubborn in nature, he is better suited for experienced owners. The average lifespan of the breed is 9—10 years. Look for a boxer puppies for sale Nashville Tennessee? Here is a brief background of this protective dog with a good sense of humour. History of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser a fighting dog with Mastiff ancestry and the Old English Bulldog. He was developed in Germany in the 19th century as hunters of deer, wild boar, and bear. Later on, he was used to guard and drive cattle. The man responsible for the creation of the Boxer breed was Georg Alt, who was from Munich. He crossed a brindle-coloured female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown breed. In , the first German Boxer dog named Flocki joined a dog show in Munich. After winning the dog show, he was the first-ever Boxer dog to be listed down in the German Studbook. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. Boxer puppies for sale in Nashville TN The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The American Boxer Club was established in .In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack dogs, and messenger dogs. The British Boxer Dog Club was then formed in .The Boxer breed was recognised by the Kennel Club shortly thereafter and classified under the Working Group. Versatile and hard-working, these dogs are capable of carrying out different canine work. Boxers are good choices for protection dogs, police dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs for the blind. Temperament and Intelligence of the Boxer puppies Nashville for sale Extremely patient and gentle, the Boxer breed is good with children. But he is recommended for families with older children as he may accidentally knock over toddlers. Befriending other pets is possible if the Boxer dog is properly socialised at a young age. It will keep him from viewing small animals as prey and reduce his tendency to dominate same-sex dogs. Is a Boxer a good family dog? Yes, the Boxer breed is a good family dog. He may look noble and intimidating, but he is actually considered the Joker of the Dog World. Boxer dogs are playful and fun-loving. They love to be part of family activities and be the centre of attention. Are Boxer dogs dangerous? Boxer dogs may be tough-looking, but they are not generally aggressive. But they will stand guard and defend their families if necessary. Boxer dogs are initially wary of strangers, but they eventually warm up to them if no danger is detected. Their protective and loyal nature makes them good guard dogs as well as watchdogs. Are Boxers easy to train? Yes, Boxer dogs are easy to train if you are already experienced in handling the breed. They are intelligent but tend to be independent and stubborn. Due to this, they are not suited for first-time owners. Boxer dogs respond better to people that are firm and consistent. However, firm does not mean harsh. Instead of strict training methods, positive reinforcements are more effective in teaching this breed basic dog manners and tricks. Boxer Breed Highlights The Boxer dog breed is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. Boxer dogs are comical companions despite their intimidating appearance. The Boxer breed has low-maintenance grooming needs. As an energetic working dog, he has high exercise needs. Boxer dogs tend to be destructive when they are left alone or unable to let off steam. Are there miniature boxers? Yes, but they are rare. Miniature boxers are either a product of mating purebred runts or cross-breeding small dogs that have similar characteristics to boxers, such as Boston terriers, pugs, rat terriers, and fox terriers. While some of these minis may closely resemble their larger counterparts, they may not act similarly. Are boxers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, boxers are not hypoallergenic. What problems do Boxers have? Boxer dogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces. This trait narrows their airway and causes breathing problems. As a result, Boxers should not be out in the sun for a long time as it can lead to heatstroke. Overexercising them must be avoided too to avoid triggering breathing difficulties. How long do Boxer dogs live? The Boxer dog breed has a short lifespan compared to other dogs. He can only live up to 9—10 years, and this is due to the prevalence of health issues in the breed. When buying a Boxer puppy, look for a reputable breeder whose breeding stock and litters are health-screened. This will help you determine how likely is your chosen Boxer puppy going to develop certain health conditions. The city grew quickly due to its strategic location as a port on the Cumberland River and, in the 19th century, a railroad center. Nashville seceded with Tennessee during the American Civil War, in it was the first state capital in the Confederacy to fall to Union troops. After the war, the city reclaimed its position and developed a manufacturing base. Wiki Nashville Drop us a line! We will not send you unnecessary notices in the future. My name is Tetyana and I am glad to welcome you on the site of the breed nursery. Welcome to the Tennessee state page on TrustedPuppies. Famed for its rich musical history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, Tennessee is a fantastic place to find and raise your new Boxer companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional Boxer breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect furry friend for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our Tennessee breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the vibrant dog-friendly scene in Tennessee, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Nashville Kennel Club Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of Boxer canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. With an estimated thousand dogs residing in the state, Tennessee ranks 27th in the nation for dog ownership. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Tennessee. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your Boxer puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect Boxer puppy on TrustedPuppies.

So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! Despite how great they are, they take time and commitment. Probably more so than most other breeds. However, even the best dogs come with their own set of challenges. Some traits are very similar, and some vary greatly between dogs, but most share typical traits of the German shepherd breed. Puppies are hard work Despite their irresistible cuteness, German shepherd puppies are hard work. Along with their need for lots of training, they are curious, bold, and into everything that captures their attention. They also love to puppy bite and chew everything that moves, including hands, feet, furniture, personal belongings, and small children. Puppy proofing the house and teaching them what is and is not okay to play bite is not optional when one of these tiny land sharks moves in. They need their people around From young pups to seniors, German shepherds become very bonded with their owners. Adult and senior dogs are happiest when their owners are nearby. If you work, you might consider day care, a dog walker, a dog sitter, or even another dog to keep them company. They are dog athletes and need lots of room to run and play so that they can burn off excess energy. They also have a lot of stamina and require plenty of time to get their exercise needs met. They get bored easily To say German shepherds are smart is an understatement. This breed is very clever and will invent things to keep their mind occupied when not given enough time, training, attention, and exercise. A bored shepherd can easily transform into a mischievous shepherd. They need lots of activities to keep their mind engaged as well as their body. The good news is, when you give them time and attention, they love nothing more than to focus on you. They can be expensive to take care of There is no such thing as a free dog but German shepherds cost more than other dogs to raise. For starters, the larger the dog, the more expensive it is to feed, spay or neuter. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention costs more for larger dogs. They also tend to require premium foods to keep their sensitive skin and stomachs happy. They can be prone to allergies, breed specific health problems, and certain orthopedic issues that can equal expensive vet bills. When getting a new puppy, pet insurance is something to seriously consider. Prepare to invest in lots of toys German shepherds love to play and are also power chewers. Most can quickly destroy even the toughest toys and chews. When you own a shepherd, gone are the days of a toy lasting for years. They shed on everything German shepherds shed all year round and twice a year, massively shed. They are totally worth the work but may not be the breed for people who like things kept spotless. They have a prey drive German shepherds were bred to be herding dogs so they have a strong prey drive. Which means, they love to chase things. This drive is fun because it makes them totally into a game of fetch or Frisbee. It also means they may love to chase things, including small animals like squirrels, rabbits, cats, hamsters, etc. Can some dogs get along with other small pets? Are some dogs, especially those with stronger working lines harder to train and may be unsafe with small pets? Talk to your breeder or test the dog before bringing it home whenever possible. Socialization is not optional These dogs are powerful, naturally protective, and extremely devoted to their family. They can also be leery and standoffish with strangers. Teaching them how to be confident, greet people, and to prevent unwanted guarding behavior is one of the most important things they need to learn from a young age. Playful and lively Despite being fearless, they are also very playful and love nothing more than having fun with their family. They love to play games, learn new things, go for rides in the car, adventure, and spend time hanging out with the people they love. Loyal to the end There is no breed more loyal than a German shepherd. They live to please and protect those they adore. They are happiest when near their family and will spend every day of their life watching over their loved ones. They make the best companions and friends to those lucky enough to own one. Of that number, a large amount is returned simply because the owners couldn't care for them. This is especially common for puppies that don't receive proper training. You might think that German Shepherds are exempt from these numbers. They're so obedient. They're trained to be police dogs; they're in the military; they're even trained to herd animals on farms. They take a lot of training to get there, though, especially German Shepherd puppies. While adopting a German Shepherd puppy is possibly one of the most rewarding experiences you could ever think of, it's definitely something to think about before taking the plunge. Luckily, we're here to help you learn all you need to know about taking care of puppies and even what you need to know beforehand. Read on to learn all you need to know about taking care of and raising German Shepherd puppies. Also don't forget to check out our custom german shepherd gifts as well! Ensure You'd Like to Adopt a German Shepherd The very first thing you need to consider is whether or not a German Shepherd puppy is going to match your lifestyle. They're a physically demanding breed that requires a lot of regular exercise and stimulation. If they don't get this, you can expect behavioral problems like chewing on and getting into things they shouldn't a common thing for any breed. They're a particularly aloof breed, but they make excellent and watchful family pets. German Shepherds may take time to warm up to strangers and even children, but with proper training and boundary establishment, they're very well-behaved dogs. The two other large things to consider before you decide; how much their care costs and just how big they can get. While some females can be as small as 51 pounds, some males can weigh up to 90 pounds. Typically, females are smaller than males, but German Shepherds are by no means a small breed. Their average height is anywhere from 22 to 26 inches. If you need a size comparison, the average height of a Pomeranian is around 10 inches tall. The other thing to consider is how much they're going to cost not only to adopt but also to care for. Since German Shepherds are typically a large breed, they're going to cost more to feed, transport, and care for on a day-to-day basis. Tips for Picking a Puppy Once you've figured out whether you can handle the financial responsibility of a German Shepherd puppy , it's time to pick out the puppy themselves. Here are a few things to consider, whether you're adopting from a breeder or a shelter. Look for Signs of Abuse and Neglect Abuse or neglect is likely to be more common in shelter puppies, but it's definitely a possibility if you're adopting from a breeder. Some signs of abuse can include: Food aggression or refusing to leave food when called Separation anxiety Antisocial behavior Submission Submission can be a tricky thing to spot at times, but it isn't impossible to detect. Sometimes in it's a dog's nature to be naturally submissive, and it's an important trait to have if they're going to be around established packs. Here are a few signs of abnormal submission that can point to emotional abuse, though: Cowering in fear or hiding when approached Rolling over or walking away with tail tucked between legs when approached Laying down or cowering while urinating These puppies aren't impossible to rehabilitate, but they're going to require patience. Scolding or becoming angry with an abused puppy will only make the problem worse, so it's smart to consider whether or not it's something you can handle. If you're not adopting from a shelter, it's important to ensure the breeder you're looking to work with is a reputable one. Adopting these breeders is an especially important thing you can do to ensure you're getting a healthy and well-cared-for puppy. Look Out for Their Demeanor But also be aware that, while they're still a puppy, you do potentially have some effect on their personality as they grow older. While there are definitely things you might not be able to change how much they enjoy affection, whether or not they like playing for hours or a few minutes , but there are still a lot of things you can affect. The things you can affect usually have to do with their overall temperament. With proper training and boundary-setting, aggressive puppies can be taught to socialize. The same goes for shy or insecure puppies. Curious and hyperactive puppies are already set up for success on the socialization front, but you'll have to show them proper interactions with other dogs and even humans. Training Milestones Once you've decided on a puppy, it's time to start training. These are important guidelines to take into consideration and also important to ensure you can achieve. While this article is going to focus on GSD puppies specifically, they're also milestones to take into consideration no matter what breed of puppy you decide upon. Socialization Socialization is important for any breed because it ensures that you can take your dog out in public safely. It is especially important, however, for German Shepherd puppies from the age of weeks old. As we talked about earlier, this breed is naturally protective of its owners. That's why it's important to establish from an early age which strangers are friendly and what situations are not a threat. The more variety you can provide with your puppy's interactions, the better. This means typical interactions, like going for a walk or visiting the dog park, but also rarer ones. Some examples might be a blind person's white cane that helps them navigate or meeting a person in a wheelchair. While these interactions aren't exactly uncommon to see, if your puppy is unfamiliar with them as they grow older, they might see them as a threat the first time they come across them. The most important thing to remember when it comes to proper socialization, however, is that your puppy will pick up on your cues. This means that confidence is key when it comes to training. If you're nervous the entire time you're attempting to socialize your dog, they're going to notice and become hesitant as well. Ensuring that you're safely exposing your puppy to new sounds, smells, and sights will give you both the confidence needed to live and work together. Crate Training Crate training is a great way to help your puppy avoid developing social anxiety. Like socialization, confidence and safety are crucial to this particular method of training. Your puppy's crate isn't a punishment. In fact, it's usually seen as a safe space for them to go when they want some alone time. To start crate training, begin by placing them in their crate for feeding times and when you sleep at night. It might be difficult when you first start, but it's important to stay consistent, as this shows your puppy that their crate is a place they're safe in. It's also great to leave them in their crate when you leave the house. How long you're gone is going to depend on their age the older they get, the longer they can wait to use the bathroom , but it's still a good way to ensure they're safe when left alone. House Training Crate training is also a great way to supplement house training — especially for GSDs. House training is usually simple for this breed, especially accompanied by supervision, patience, and consistency on the owner's part. When you first bring your puppy home, it's important to take them out at least once an hour, though this number will go down as they get older. Reward them when they use the restroom outside, and don't punish them if they have an accident inside. When you use harsh reinforcement, like shoving their nose in their urine, they're not necessarily going to understand what's going on. Instead, if they have an accident and you catch them in the act, simply pick them up and take them outside. This shows them where they're supposed to go, reinforcing the boundary rather than training from a place of fear. Chewing The same goes for chewing on or getting into items they're not supposed to. Yelling, hitting, or scaring your puppy is not an effective way to train them. Instead — when they're getting into things they shouldn't — remove the item from their possession or move them to a different location while firmly saying "no. In this case, toys are expected to be chewed on. Setting clear boundaries and expectations from day one is not only going to make training your puppy easier, but it's going to make it easier for them to trust you. Obedience Training Starting at three months, obedience training should take place for your puppy. This includes basic commands, impulse control, and teaching them which behaviors are inappropriate for them to exhibit. For impulse control, that means teaching them to stay when food is set in front of them. Inappropriate behaviors will depend on the owner, but this usually means things like excessive barking, digging, chasing especially cats and cars , or even jumping and begging. Establishing trust is important for your dog because the key to obedience training is having their focus be on you. You're the one giving the cue, so they have to be able to trust that you're guiding them appropriately. Having your puppy sit before getting food, being greeted by house guests, playing with a toy, or opening the door to go for a walk is a great place to start. In these situations, the more you can have the puppy's attention on you instead of the impulse, the more effective their training will be. That means lots of positive reinforcement with lots of treats! After 1 Year For many breeds, one year old is considered the "end" of puppyhood, but for a lot of german shepherds , that doesn't come until the age of two to three years old. It's important to continuously reinforce training methods like impulse control, obedience skills, and even possibly advancing to other, more specific, training skills like agility, herding, and even protection work. GSDs are capable of performing all these duties and even excel at them. When you give your puppy something a job to focus on at certain points throughout the day, you give them something to look forward to — dogs of any breed thrive on this. No matter what decision you make, a puppy will make a wonderful addition to any family they're added to — German Shepherd puppies are no exception to this. Overall, the breed is a very loving, loyal, and protective breed. They're going to have a natural affinity for you from the start. If you give them the proper love, affection, and training, you're definitely going to reap the rewards of the decision you made to adopt. Once you decide to adopt, your puppy is going to need a few supplies of its own. Check out our custom german shepherd gifts to show off your love for your puppy no matter where you both choose to venture. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! 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That means they can have an unpredictable mix of traits from each parent — and even two puppies in a litter might be different from one another. The Golden Retriever is a medium-sized dog first bred in Scotland in the s. They were bred to work alongside their humans as a water retriever. It has a beautiful, long golden coat, which is where it gets its name. Males are about 24 inches at the shoulder, while females are a bit smaller at 22 inches. Males are proportionally heavier than females, weighing about pounds. Females weigh pounds. They have soft, drop ears, dark eyes, and a well-balanced body with a deep chest. Goldens are trustworthy, smart, friendly, and eager-to-please their people. Pitbull terriers, technically known as American Staffordshire Terriers according to the AKC, is a smaller dog than the golden. They reach inches at the shoulder for males and inches for females. Males weigh anywhere from pounds, and females weigh anywhere from pounds. A smiling Pitbull dog These dogs were bred in England out of bulldogs in Great Britain in the 18th and 19th centuries. They were popularized in the U. Pitbulls have short hair that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, fawn, bronze, liver, red, seal, white, brindle or a mix of these colors. They have naturally floppy ears, though many breeders crop them in the U. They have a characteristically wide head and mouth A well-bred pittie lovable, highly-trainable, courageous, alert, agile, and graceful. The puppies from these two dogs can have a range of these characteristics. Wondering what this unique pup looks like? They can be any color that a Golden or Pitbull comes in, or any combination — including a mix of three colors! The coat can be long, medium or short, wavy, straight and can even have curls. It can help to head to Instagram and look for pictures of Golden Retriever Pitbull mixes to see what you could be in for if you decide to bring one home. Full-grown, these dogs are about 18 to 24 inches 46 to 61 cm at the shoulder and 30 to 75 pounds 14 to 34 kg. It can help to look at the parents of the puppy to get an idea about size and potential color, but even then, you can never be sure. Get the know the personality of this friendly mix Just as these dogs can vary in appearance, a Golden Retriever Pitbull mix can have a varied personality, as well. In general, this is a loyal, devoted, and family friendly dog who is happy watching and playing with the kids. Some are wary of strangers, but most are super friendly and social. Imagine how a Golden approaches the world ready to meet and mingle. Golden Retriever Pitbull mixes are usually similar. This can lead to digging, chewing, barking. The best way to do this is to leave calmly and give them a treat before you head out. This teaches them that leaving is a good thing. Be careful not to establish bad habits like begging unintentionally. Golden Retriever Pitbull mix have high energy and love to go hiking, walking, running, and swimming. This video shows a 5 month old having some playtime with their human. While they love their people, they can be independent. They may decide to ignore you and do what they want — so long as they can keep an eye on you. You need to keep them mentally stimulated, or watch out! They are aware of their surroundings at all times and will keep an eye out for intruders. That said, their personalities can be unpredictable and may have aggression issues. Especially if you get one from an irresponsible breeder who is just looking to make a buck. They have a high prey drive, so be careful if you plan to have them around cats, gerbils, or birds. That said, they do make good hunters and the squirrels in your neighborhood will need to keep an eye out. How to care for your Golden retriever pitbull mix Grooming will largely depend on the type of coat that your dog inherits. Long haired and double-coated dogs require more grooming than short or medium, or single coated dogs. The first should be brushed daily, while you can wait every days for shorter or medium, or single-coated dogs. That is, unless they get dirty. Use a dog-specific shampoo to prevent irritating their skin. Trim their nails every few weeks using a clipper or grinder. Be careful not to cut the quick. Brush their teeth every few days using a doggie-specific toothpaste and either a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger or a dog toothbrush. Clean their ears whenever you bathe them using an ear cleaning solution. This is especially true if your dog has Golden-like drop ears. TGolden Retriever Pitbull mixes need about 1, calories a day divided between two meals. Look for a high-quality kibble with meat as the first ingredient. Puppies should eat a large breed puppy food four times a day. The trick with making sure your dog has all the best traits and not the bad ones is training. This includes early socialization when your pup is young. Just keep it all positive. This means introducing them to new people and animals, and giving them treats or praise when they behave well. Repeat this with different noises, smells, and situations, like walking over a metal grate or being around an umbrella opening. You need to teach them to respect your space, your furniture, and your authority. Praise them when they behave well. You should also teach them to accept it when you leave to avoid separation anxiety, as we discussed above. Positive reinforcement starting right when they come to your home for the first time is key. This can include playing fetch, running, hiking, swimming, or anything else that they like to do. You can also mix in some mental stimulation in the form of puzzle games or treat toys like Kong stuffing treats. Is a pitbull golden retriever mix healthy? They have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Watch out for: Hip dysplasia. Loyal, intelligent, friendly, and social Training Status History and Origins Golden Retriever and Pitbull This crossbreed of dogs has been common for the past few decades. Crossbreeding is usually used to generate a new breed of canines. However, testing labs for dogs are mostly used in this method. Introducing new kinds of dogs in the world has become popular, but has also created controversy. In many cases, the loss of human life and lasting physical and emotional scars has been the cause. Most people are uncertain about the reason for breeding. They argue that knowing every single aspect of a pure breed is easy, but it is impossible to determine the behavior of mixed breeds. While others think that hybrid breeds have a wonder gene pool, and they are not prone to inherited diseases and are considered far healthier than their parent dogs. The Pitbull Golden Retriever Mix is also one of the healthiest crossbreeds. It is a result of mixing a loyal Pitbull Terrier and a humble-natured Golden Retriever. Unfortunately, like other mixed breeds, it is almost impossible to pin down their origin and why they were even created. However, if we look at the history of both, the Golden Retriever and the pitbull, we can see how these dogs influenced the mixed breed. You can find the roots of the pitbull at the start of the 19th century, in England, created from English Bulldogs for bull baiting. Later, this inhumane game was banned. These dogs were infamous for their aggression. After they got popular, people started using them as their companions and as farm dogs. The Golden Retriever has an older history than the Pitbull, and has its origins in the Scottish Highlands, during the mids. The retriever was primarily a hunting dog in those parts. These canines are comparatively less aggressive than Pitbulls. In short, because of the popularity of these two dogs, the golden retriever, and the pitbull, people may have thought of producing a hybrid that could have a concoction of their best qualities together. So, the intended outcome may have been to have a friendly dog capable of aggression when needed. Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix: Appearance and Temperament Appearance It is quite hard to predict the exact appearance of this hard-to-find hybrid, but you can see some positive traits of their parents, one way or another. Their looks can vary, and many totally depend on gene expression. All of them usually have a large and muscular physique that stands up 24 inches tall. However, they can be thin, broad, or a completely muscular build. Height and Weight The male can be 18 to 24 inches tall, whereas females can be 17 to 22 inches tall. They are mostly heavy and can weigh 30 and 75 pounds. Coat and Colors Another unique personality trait of this dog is that you can find some of them in various colors, all falling within the shades of golden. This dog can have solid gold colors, exactly the colors of a golden retriever, or a combination of darker colors with a white base. Your Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix can have a solid color, bi-colored, or even tri-colored. You will also find this breed with different types of fur coats too. This hybrid can be single or double-coated, with the fur of any length. A short coat tends to be thin, whereas, a long coat can be shady or wavy. Some dogs of this breed also have attractive curls in their fur. Temperament Because of the mixture of two dogs, this breed has some pretty unique personality traits. These strong companions have friendly and confident personalities. Sadly, their un-predictable nature can cause you difficulty in training and managing them. But one thing that never changes in this breed is their highly dynamic nature and love towards social interaction. This hybrid of a sporting dog and a terrier gives this breed extraordinary energy and strength. You have to create an environment where they can exhaust their energy without doing any harm to your property. Your dog will also let you know when it needs this type of surrounding. Because of their fun-loving nature and love for meeting new acquaintances, they have a desire to step out for a walk every day. They always need something to feel active; due to this, boredom frustrates them. Even if you encourage them to have fun all by themselves, they will end up trashing your property. They also take some time to adjust to your other pets. It is impossible to know what your dog will inherit from their parents and hard to predict their behavior. But no matter what they get from their genes, they are surely a devoted friend to you and your family. Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix vs. This golden companion is highly sociable and friendly compared to other dogs. The Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix is also more active than their furry friends. The most amazing thing is that they are aggressive, but you can train them. Through training, they transform into the best family dogs. The personality of a golden furry creature makes them different from other breeds. How to Train Your Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix Good training is always your responsibility as a dog owner, and it should be considered your top priority. These pups are very intelligent and are always ready to learn from you. It is best to give them their first training when they are young. Because of their active nature, they respond well, and you can provide them with food as a reward after training. They are willing to agree with you for praise or rewards like toys. The tarnished reputation of these Pitbulls tends to make people forget that these dogs are highly trainable. American Pitbull Terriers are the best service dogs for this reason. These four-leg companions have a natural desire to help people. As they are intelligent dogs, they become bored easily and always need mental stimulation. They also crave for their owner to build a relationship with them. When your dog is young, invite people over to tell them how to behave in front of your dog and give your guest treats so that they can feed your dog for good behavior. This way, your dog will feel happy, and your guests can have a good experience with your pup. This canine is best for active people or people who love outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, or running. These dogs are perfect partners for people who are active and love workouts. You may know that both the Golden Retriever and Pitbull have an undeniable love for swimming. This means that your hybrid pup will also love it. So, add swimming to their exercise curriculum. You can also take them for long walks and to play games involving a Frisbee. Moreover, it is vital to have large and secure backyards if you have a canine this big. This is because they are great climbers, so you need to prevent them from running or jumping outside your confines. A high fence is, therefore, a must. And stay close to them, if you are letting them run free without a leash, they can easily run off and be hard to catch. They easily make bonds with their owners and always remain faithful to their families. They are energetic compared to other dogs, and this ability makes them best for homes where they can have an area for exercises and playing regularly. They flourish in homes where they can have the company of someone during the daytime, especially someone who can workout with them and play with them. The social nature of this dog makes it a perfect dog for big families. They are great for older families too. Moreover, these canines also love to play with children, but it is better to consider the safety of your children if you have one, as these dogs can bite and can inflict some serious damage. Never leave your pup alone with your children, and also teach your children to treat your dog with kindness. Moreover, teach your puppy to play with your children. They can be good friends with your children. Giving these golden pups time, love, and attention will pay you off. You and your family will surely enjoy their presence in your home. The following are some benefits of having a beautiful and fun-loving dog: They remain loyal to you always. They have a loving nature. These dogs are good friends with children. You will feel amazed by their intelligence. You can train them easily. These canines are perfect for active and big families. People who want a companion for outdoor actives will fall in love with this pet. These dogs are prone to obesity because they consume a high amount of food. Wondering how to manage their diet? How much you can feed them depends on their weight. A good way is to make calculations of their food by comparing their weight. You can do this by giving them 30 calories for each pound of their body weight. For a pound dog, approx 2. Moreover, if you are feeding your dog the kibble with wet food, this changes the quantity of food they need. The most vital thing to consider is the protein content in their diet. Opt for foods that have high-quality ingredients, and that are high in fats and proteins. To give your Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix all the nutrients it needs, you need to choose a large-breed dog food, who can give them a long life span. Pick up foods that are rich in protein from an animal source such as meat, fish, and poultry. Limit the fat and calorie content in their foods. This will help you control their growth and maintain mass in adults. Moreover, when you are considering all the above factors, also find food that has a bigger kibble size. Bigger kibbles provide you a way to feed them smaller portions sizes, which give them all nutrients. Large breeds like golden Pitbulls have chances of bloating because of overeating. Should you be Worried about Any Health Issues? The Golden Pitbull Retriever Mix can suffer from various diseases, which can be mild as well as chronic. They are prone to joint problems, heart, eye, skin, ear, and hypothyroidism conditions as well as cancer. Because of their large and wide physique, they can also experience bloat, which can lead to death. These pups need health screening that is appropriate for both, Golden Retrievers and Pitbulls. The following are some screening needs for your canine: Hip Evaluation. Temperament: Rambunctious, devoted and sociable. Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix Appearance There is no official standard for this hard to find hybrid, but its accepted that the breed should embody the positive traits of both parents. These dogs can come out looking like either one of the parent breeds, or a perfect mix of both. Their appearance is variable and will depend on gene expression. They should be large and well-built dogs that stand up to 24 inches tall. You will find they can be thin and lean or have a wider, more muscular build. Lab Pitbull mixes can come out with any possible combination of these appearances, but careful selective breeding can create a more predictable appearance. Height and Weight Males stand anywhere between inches tall with females standing inches tall. You can expect them to weigh anywhere between pounds. Coat and Colors This is certainly a dog of many colors. They can be the solid gold colors of a Golden Retriever, or a mix of darker colors against a white base. Your mix may be a solid, bi colored or even tri colored. This breed can be single or double coated, with fur of just about any length. A short coat is typically thin and fine furred, while a long coat may be shaggy or wavy. Some may even have an attractive curl to them. Short to medium coated dogs will shed mildly and only need brushing once or twice a week. Long coated dogs are frequent shedders with daily brushing and grooming requirements. The breed is not currently recognized by any organization, and there are no breed clubs or rescues. The Golden Retriever has history as a hunting partner used to retrieve waterfowl. This breed has no true name, but they are sometimes referred to as Retriever Pits. This name also applies to the more common Labrador Pitbull mix. Their unpredictability can make them difficult to train and to manage. One thing you can be certain about is their fun loving and active nature. A mix of a sporting dog and a terrier is a recipe for boundless energy. Their energy must be let out in bursts through the day. Your dog will certainly let you know when they need something to do. Pitbull Lab mixes social butterflies have an inborn desire to make new friends. They cannot tolerate boredom and hate to be by themselves. If you expect them to keep themselves entertained, they will do so by trashing your house. A high prey drive means that it will take some time for them to get along with your other pets. It is nearly impossible to pinpoint which specific behaviors your pup will inherit. But no matter what, you can expect them to be a loyal devoted friend to you and your family. This breed comes from two excellent family dogs, making it one of the best dogs for a family. They are known for extreme loyalty to their families, who they will view as their pack. Caring for a Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix Exercise Requirements Any dog in the sporting group needs more exercise than your average pooch. Taking your dog for long walks and runs will help both you and your dog stay fit. Golden Retriever Pitbull mixes need at least an hour of exercise every day. The best way to do this is to take them out for a 30 minute walk around the neighborhood and dedicate the rest of the time to play. They also love to jump, and will catch a Frisbee or a ball right out of the air. You can tune in to their wild sides by giving them toys to hunt. This is the perfect pooch for taking along with you on your own daily activities. They make excellent hiking partners and will enjoy a trip out into nature just as much as you will. Number of Walks Per Day: 1. Grooming and Shedding If you have a short coated dog, grooming will be much less intensive than it would be for a mix with a longer coat. Short and medium coated dogs need brushing once or twice a week. Long coated dogs will need brushing every day, and may need special brushes and combs for shed control. Do not be tempted to run to the bathtub every time your pooch gets a little dirty. You can give your dog a full bath every 3 months, but daily dirt and grime should be wiped away. Feeding and Diet These large active dogs need plenty of healthy food to fuel their daily work and play. This breed benefits from including raw foods in their diet. Even if you feed them kibble, you should find ways to add raw meat to the menu. You can replace one of their cups of kibble with some cuts of raw pork or poultry. Muscular breeds like this will need more protein than others. Fruits and vegetables make a great healthy treat for your dog. These are packed full of vitamins and minerals, but should only be given every once in a while. Hip dysplasia is very common for all large dog breeds. This is a malformation of the hip joints that causes pain and eventual arthritis. Having pet insurance could save you from potential headaches of going to the vets with reimbursement for every vet bill from now on! You should expect your Golden Retriever Pitbull mix to live for 10 to 15 years. This is a very little known breed with no official organization, so finding a breeder will be very difficult. However you will still need to focus on the four key areas: obedience, housebreaking, socialization and behavior. You will need to start tackling each one of these as soon as you bring your pup home. One of the first steps is to create a safe space for your dog to relax in while you are away. This is done through crate training. The crate will become your dogs den in the house, where they can feel safe and secure while they wait for you to come back home. When dealing with a bully breed, many assume that physical punishment should be used when training them. They could not be any more wrong. In reality the use of harsh correction and physical discipline will create aggression rather than eliminate it. Instead take advantage of your Golden Retriever Pitbull mixes loyalty. They will do anything to make you happy, so let them know how proud of them you are. If they misbehave just ignore it and they will catch on very fast. The video was shared on TikTok earlier in March by the dog's owner, under the username Kopperkinodaily. In it, the fluffy dog, named Kopper, can be seen enjoying his owner's cuddles and giving her his paw as he winks at her. The viral post came with a caption that read: "What a half pitbull half golden retriever looks like. A crossbreed dog who is half a golden retriever and half a pit bull has melted hearts all over the internet. Veronica Garibey According to Alpha Paw, golden retriever-pit bull mix-breeds make great family dogs, and are undoubtedly friendly. The website states: "If you want a dog who can be your forever companion, this is for you. Golden retrievers are known for being one of the gentlest and softest dogs around, especially around children. They get along with anyone and are very patient. Pit bulls also share the same personality trait as retrievers, and they are very gentle and sweet dogs especially if you give them [the] right training. Christine Barton, veterinarian at The Vets, told Newsweek that mixing dog breeds can have potential complications in many ways, especially anatomy e. She said: "This can also include congenital, as well as genetic, disorders. These two breeds in particular are known for having sensitive skin and joint issues. Pit bulls are more likely to have cancers such as mast cell tumors than retrievers, who are more likely to have lymphoma. She said: "My neighbor had a blue female pit bull and a neighborhood stray that resembled a reddish-golden retriever got her pregnant. I got him entirely for free! All the pups were mutts but he was the only one that came out fluffy. His absolute favorite game ever is fetch with the tennis ball. He is all retriever when it comes to the tennis ball," she said. The video quickly went viral, attracting animal lovers from across the platform. It has so far received over 4. As a result of their size, they need to be on an excellent regular diet and fitness activities. The retriever and Pit Retriever has the potential of gaining weight without you noticing, and it can produce health complications. Keeping your Golden Retriever Pitbull at its ideal weight is easy, and you need to remember the following: Dedicate an active exercise regimen for them Give them plenty of walks Give them playtime to keep them engaged and fit There are many possibilities with what your Golden Retriever Pitbull might end up looking like, but you can expect that the build of your pup will take on the retriever, and the head from the Pit Bull. The Pitbull Retriever has a beautiful and unique coat, especially if the Pit Bull has a darker shade like black. There may be some instance when your pup can have a long black shaggy coat. If your Retriever and Pitbull takes on a long shaggy coat, then you need to be ready with giving them regular brushing and expect excessive shedding. You have nothing to worry about the temperament of Pitbull and Retriever Mix because they are generally well natured and friendly creatures. There may be several instances when the breed exhibits a rather odd trait, but this can all be corrected at a young age through the following: Train them at a young age; Give them exposure with other people and animals; Reward them for their excellent behavior. Do a bit of research to find out where your pups came from and whether they were successfully bred. You want to make sure that both the parents of the puppy are healthy. Doing your homework can help you avoid the following complications: Health complications. Development of negative personality traits. Shorter than average lifespan. Ask for documents to know the fitness of your puppies. A good and reliable breeder always have documents to show you the competence of the parents of the pups, as well as their health records. You can check whether they are updated with their vaccines and health records, and know what pre-existing conditions they might have. Most importantly, you want a breeder who already gave your pups some preventive vaccines. Crossbreeds can get very expensive, depending on the situation and where you get them. In most cases, the price is an excellent factor in determining the history of your pups. Here are some possible implications: Being charged a higher rate is average for the circumstance where the puppy shows a particular or rare trait. This can include different colors for the coat or eyes. Low charges can sometimes mean that the puppies were overbred, and overbreeding can often cause unhealthy litters. If your puppy takes after the coat of the Pitbull, a short, manageable coat, your job is relatively easy. Get their nails regularly trimmed, mainly because they are hyper dogs. Brush them regularly to eliminate loose furs. If your pup takes on the coat of golden retrievers, longer shaggy goats, then you need to give their grooming more attention. At times their grooming can be challenging especially because of their long shaggy coats. Be mindful, however, not to over bathe them since it might cause their skin to be dry. Your dog looks beautiful at all times. Regular brushing is an excellent place to start. All dogs have the propensity of developing genetic health problems, and some breeds are more prone than others. The Golden Retriever-Pitbull mix has an average life expectancy of 10 to 15 years, depending on their health. The combination is also likely to the following health problems: bloat, hip dysplasia, heart diseases, and cancer. Bloat is a medical emergency which is life-threatening to dogs. Bloat is among the leading cause of deaths for many large and giant dogs, which is why you need to watch out for the following symptoms: Swollen hard belly; Drooling; Signs of distress, pain and restless. Some of the symptoms of hip dysplasia include: Reduce activity and inability to jump and run properly. Having a hard time walking and exhibiting signs of pain. Although the Pitbull Golden Retriever mix is a large breed, you need to regulate their diet. Unlike the worst dry dog food, the best dry dog food contains all the nutrients dogs need. Avoid processed foods and choose ingredients rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, such as Wellness Core Dog Food or Dog For Dog Food. Adding food boosters such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can also be convenient. Unlike humans, dogs are better off with eating raw meat than cooked ones. Mind their size. Petite pooches have different dietary needs when compared to their larger cousins. Choose wisely between the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food according to the size of the pooch. Keep in mind their age. Age dictates the amount of needed nutrients, and best puppy food brands are not appropriate for older dogs, just as whelps will not make the most of the best senior dry dog food. Golden Retriever Pitbull Exercise Requirements Retriever Pitbull are highly energetic dogs, and they need a lot of exercises and to be with a playmate. A dog such as this retriever mix is excellent for someone who lives an active lifestyle, and who enjoys long walks, hikes, and the like. Take them on runs or when you want to exercise. Since Golden Pitbull is independent, training them can be hard because they can become stubborn. Let them know that you are in control and that they should respect your authority. A definite and firm hand lets them know of their place. Give your dogs some positive reinforcement especially when they do your commands right. Praising them for their excellent behavior helps encourage them to do your commandments. Pitbull Golden Retriever Mix and Families There are a lot of reasons to fall in love with Pit Bull retriever, and they are perfect for every family. The breed may not be so familiar, but keeping one as a family dog is worth it. They are sweeter, friendlier than most dogs, considering how both parent dogs exhibit great personality traits. The breed is perfect for families who can give the right time and attention in training and caring. Taking care of the kind requires a lot of love and attention from the family. Being a large and active breed, your doggo will need around 1, calories per day divided into two meals. Keep in mind that this is just a general estimate! Your dog may need more or less food depending on their age, activity levels, and any health problems. Golden retriever pit bull puppies should have four small, evenly spaced meals a day and eat high-quality puppy food designed for large breed dogs. After the first month or so, you can slowly transition your puppy to the formula of your choice. Long-haired golden pits, on the other hand, shed profusely and have to be brushed every day. The frequency of bathing will depend on how dirty and active your dog is. For most pups, once every three months will do the trick and help keep your mix looking and smelling great. However, you can always bathe your dog more often if they get extremely dirty or smelly from playing in the backyard or on outings. This grooming regimen should involve regular nail trimming, teeth brushing , and ear cleaning. To get your mix on board with their new grooming routine , start doing everything while they are still a puppy. The golden retriever pit bull mix is a wonderful dog that is deeply devoted to its owners and is fond of children. Friendly and loyal by nature, these dogs get along with other pets and people and tend to greet everyone with a wagging tail. While some golden pits may be wary of strangers, early socialization can help these pups to become friendlier and more accepting of new people. How much is a golden retriever pit bull mix? How big do pit bull retrievers get? The golden retriever pit bull mix is generally a large breed, but since there are no set breed standards, some dogs may be smaller. Male dogs are usually between 18 and 24 inches tall at the withers, while females are typically around 17 to 22 inches tall. Golden pit bulls usually weigh from 50 to 75 pounds, with males often being heavier than female dogs. Are pit bull golden retriever mix dogs aggressive? When properly socialized and trained from a young age, these dogs are no more dangerous than any other properly raised dog. Although pit bull mixes and bully breeds are often deemed as aggressive, golden retriever pit bulls are friendly, loyal, mild-mannered, and intelligent. Do pit bull golden retriever mixes shed? If you have a long-haired golden pit, invest in a de-shedding brush and a sturdy slicker brush that can go deep in the coat and remove as much loose hair as possible. Conclusion The golden retriever pit bull mix is still not as popular as other retriever mixes, but it is bound to attract the attention of dog lovers thanks to its loyal and friendly nature. Besides being extremely gentle with children and an ideal family dog, this mix is very easy to train and a great option for first-time owners. Do you own a pit bull golden retriever mix? What do you like most about your dog? Share your experience owning this mixed-breed with us and our readers in the comment section below! You May Also Like. The Golden Retriever Pitbull mix is a family-oriented, intelligent and loyal pup. They can have a personality that combines any or all aspects of the parent breeds. Golden Retrievers are known for being social happy-go-lucky dogs and this trait is definitely passed onto their pups. These mixes are extroverts and love to socialize, but at the end of the day they are most loyal to their family. Their loyal and protective nature can make them good candidates for family dogs as they are also patient and tolerant of small children. They are curious dogs who form strong bonds. This means that they can also struggle with separation anxiety if they are not properly trained to being left alone. Crate training from an early age can help with this problem. They do not like being left alone for long periods of time and would be best suited with an owner who wants a furry side-kick for their many adventures in life. If these dogs are left alone too long or not given enough exercise, they can resort to destructive behavior. Chewing, digging or barking can become problems with this mix. Puzzle toys and games can keep your pups mind busy so they do not get bored throughout the day. Exercise This hybrid is most known for being a friendly family dog, but they also have the characteristics of a focused sporting dog. Sporting characteristics from the Golden Retriever and terrier-like qualities from the Pitbull means this mix has a strong prey drive and the need for a job. They are intelligent and fast learners who are quick to pick-up commands and eager to please their owners. Ideally, they should have at least one hour of exercise per day. They enjoy going to the dog park, long walks and short training sessions to keep their brains busy. Like most dogs, this mix likes routine and creating an exercise routine will help keep them out of trouble. They are best suited for families who have a fenced-in-yard which allows them to stretch their legs and get the zoomies out. Both Golden Retrievers and Pitbulls have lots of energy. Therefore it is no surprise that the mix between the two of them is just as energetic. Are They Healthy? The typical lifespan of a Golden Retriever Pitbull mix is between 10 to 15 years. This is similar to both of their purebred parents. Mixes are generally healthy dogs , but they are prone to some of the same health problems as their parents. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are common in large breed dogs and could affect this mix. Obesity is common in both Pitbulls and Golden Retrievers and should be monitored in your pup. Obesity can lead to many other health issues such as hyperthyroidism and heart disease. Both parents can also be affected by a congenital heart disease called Aortic Stenosis. Tumors are common for Golden Retrievers to develop. Many times these tumors are cosmetic, but they can also be cancerous. Pitbulls are relatively healthy, but they often suffer from skin allergies and irritation. These problems can be chronic and hard to manage. Many of the health problems of this mix are genetic. Therefore, buying from a breeder who has screened their dogs for these health problems before breeding is important to ensure your pup will be healthy. The parents should be tested for hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, and eye conditions prior to breeding. Keeping a close eye on your pup and making sure they are as healthy as can be can reduce the risk for many of these health problems. Pitbull and Golden Retriever Mix Puppies If you want to buy this dog you will have to find a specialty breeder which can be difficult and expensive. All puppies are adorable, especially Golden Retriever Pitbull puppies. Their oversized paws and smushy faces will make you want to squeeze them. These happy, smiley dogs will brighten your day and keep you entertained for hours with puppy shenanigans. As a pup your dog will require lots of time and attention. Training should start at an early age to prevent unwanted behaviors such as chewing, destruction, and separation anxiety. Some owners may want to take their new companion to a puppy class for structured training. Providing structured training as well as socialization at a young age is a must for this breed. Most puppies begin to show their personality traits in adolescence, beginning around six months of age. It can be hard to predict what their personality will be like. Some pups are loyal, others are a social butterfly. The personality is unique to each pup, which means it may take some time to understand them as they grow into their big personalities. Price Golden Retriever Pitbull puppies are difficult to find from reputable breeders. Even when you do find a breeder, they are very expensive. They are on the upper end of the price range when compared to Golden Retrievers and a lot more than a Pitbull. There are only a few breeders who specialize in this mix and potential owners should be aware of the risks of buying from puppy mills and unethical breeders. Unfortunately this mix can sometimes end up in shelters due to behavioral problems. Adoption is always an option for potential owners as long as they are willing to find the right match. Shelter dogs are a great way to provide a home for pets in need. It is important for potential owners to be aware of the time and attention they will need to dedicate to their furry friend. This mix requires lots of exercise and attention from their owners. If you want a couch potato, the Golden Retriever Pitbull mix is definitely not for you! A Pocket Bully , English Bulldog or Pug might be better suited for owners who just want a cute cuddle-buddy. The Golden Retriever Pitbull mix is an athletic and enthusiastic pup who will demand physical activity. These dogs have strong and athletic bodies which are well-suited for long walks, hikes or runs with their owners. High prey-drive is often inherited from their parents. American Pitbull Terriers are known for their terrier-like qualities of chasing small prey. This dog might not be the best pet for a household with small pets which could become injured if chased or caught. Their wariness of strangers also comes from the Pitbull. This wariness can result in unnecessary barking, especially in the presence of new people. Proper socialization from a young age can help with this behavior. Due to their high energy and enjoyment of barking, these dogs are not well suited for apartment living. The amount of grooming will vary depending on the type of coat your Golden Retriever Pitbull mix gets. Short-haired mixes will require comparatively little grooming, although they do shed. Medium to long coated dogs need a lot more attention and grooming. Training A Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix It is important to begin training at an early age to keep these active dogs out of trouble. As a puppy, their attention spans are short. Quick and upbeat sessions are the best way to approach training. Puppy classes and beginner obedience training can be a great way to teach your puppy manners as well as work on socialization. Early socialization is extremely important for a Golden Retriever Pitbull mix to help them reduce their prey-drive and wariness of strangers. Introducing your new pup to lots of new people and dogs from an early age will help them be more confident as an adult. Crate training is often recommended to help with potty training. It will also help with creating a safe space for your pup to be in when left alone. The crate can be a great tool to help a Golden Retriever Pitbull deal with separation anxiety. Providing lots of toys and puzzles can be a good way to keep your mix happy and mentally stimulated. If they are bored or restless training will be difficult. They are more likely to find something to entertain themselves such as your favorite pair of shoes. Many pups also inherit the beautiful golden cream color of the Golden Retriever. Their coat can be short, medium or long and they often have markings on their chest, head and paws. These big babies are sure to steal your heart with their lovable personalities. Their personality should be the best of their parents. The Golden Retriever and Pitbull are both social and friendly dogs who love their family. These mixes are best suited for families and owners who live an active lifestyle. They need an owner willing to dedicate a significant amount of time to exercising and training their dog. If you give a Golden Retriever Pitbull mix the chance to be your pal, you are sure to have a life-long friend. He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like.

The protein will come from readily available sources such as chicken or beef, and not exotic or boutique sources like kangaroo or venison as you saw in second study mentioned above. According to the AKC , quality, regulated animal byproducts can be good for your dog. These byproducts can include organ meats or entrails, which often contain more nutrients than, say, plain chicken breast. Another misconception is that dogs should eat grain-free diets. As you saw in the second study mentioned above, that can actually be very harmful for your dog and cause DCM. But food labels can be a little vague and confusing, so below is an explanation of what some of these terms mean, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual and the AKC. There is one caveat though. For instance, flaked corn, ground corn, and kibbled corn could be sprinkled in an ingredient list and not be listed as the first few ingredients, but in reality, if you were to add them all up they are all corn, after all , you might find that this food is made mostly of corn. The same goes for chicken, chicken meal, and chicken byproduct. Meat vs. Meat Meal vs. The quality of these ingredients can vary widely, so be sure to talk to your vet about this and choose a reputable brand of food. Below are a few examples: Obesity. Golden Retrievers love food and they do have a tendency to become overweight if you let them. This problem can often affect these next two problems… Joint issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to joint issues and growing too fast because they eat too much can often make this problem worse more on this in the next section. Heart issues. Skin issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to hot spots and excess protein in their diets can be a factor that causes them. Many goldens suffer from food allergies. One cup of Brand X food may have calories per cup, while Brand Y has calories per cup. During a vet visit our veterinarian said he looked too small and lethargic for a puppy his age about 8 weeks at the time , and he recommended we feed him a little more. As far as how often to feed your puppy, this same rule applies. For us, we fed Oliver three times per day until he was a little over a year old. Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Get the gameplan for raising them right with the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Those two statements may sound random, but they are related. According to the Banfield Pet Hospital , overfeeding your Golden Retriever can cause them to grow too fast and increase their risk of hip dysplasia. You probably noticed that a raw diet was the fourth-most popular diet Golden Retriever owners feed their dog. Since puppies are growing and adults are just maintaining their weight, they have different dietary needs. And for fats, puppy food should have at least 8. As far as when to switch from puppy food to adult food, talk to your veterinarian. To see a list of other milestones your puppy will hit like when they lose their first teeth, or when their coat is fully grown check out this timeline of Golden Retriever puppy milestones. Like most of the other questions in this post, this is something to talk to your veterinarian about. Many foods will have the same vitamins that pills have already in them, but on the other hand, some breeders require that you give your puppy vitamins for their health guarantee to be valid. First, we unknowingly started him off on one of the brands listed in the graph above that is correlated with DCM. Then we switched to another brand that he just sort of liked. If we were to have another puppy, we would definitely start with the Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy food. How To Switch Food Brands The other day I was talking to someone who was complaining that her puppy was having lots of stomach issues. Dogs have sensitive stomachs so if you want to switch foods, you need to do it slowly. You should take about a week to transition from the old food to the new brand. Also consider how long the brand of food has been around, whether or not there have been any recalls of that brand, and if there is any research behind it. What do you feed your Golden Retriever puppy? Have any questions about what to feed them? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. 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. You should also call your vet, as the quicker you treat pet poisoning, the easier and safer it is to treat. People typically feed their Golden Retriever either dry food kibble or canned wet food, but there are several different kinds of dog food, and it can be daunting knowing where to start. So, what type of dog food is best for Golden Retrievers? The best dog food for Golden Retrievers is dry food, such as kibble or cold-pressed. Dry food is more practicable for medium-large breeds, provides more nutrients per bite than wet food, and is less costly. Even if you choose a premium brand, dry food will still be less expensive. You must, however, also meet your own needs and beliefs. This means that the food must contain all of the requisite nutrients in their appropriate proportions. Relevant nutrient details should be prominent. Feeding instructions must be provided. Premium protein sources beef, poultry, lamb, pork, fish, etc. Superior dog foods will also include additional protein sources, such as eggs and plant-based proteins, such as vegetables, grains, and legumes. This information will help you to decide what kind to feed your dog. Dry Foods One of the most popular types of dog food is dry food. Complete dry dog food comes in two varieties. So what exactly is kibble? Kibble is essentially ground-up ingredients shaped into various shapes and sizes of pellets. All kibble is produced similarly by using the same kind of machinery. Even premium kibble made with the best quality ingredients uses the same process. What is cold-pressed dog food? The food is produced at a much lower temperature and cooked faster to retain higher nutritional value, vitamins, and flavor before being pressed into different shapes. It is widespread in the United Kingdom and Europe and is becoming more popular in the US and other regions. Here are the main points to consider when contemplating feeding your doggo dry food: Since kibble and cold-pressed food contain less moisture, they have more nutrients per bite than wet food. Dry food can also aid Goldens with dental issues because it helps clean their teeth and gums. For a medium-large dog, such as a Golden Retriever, dry dog food is the most sensible option; however, kibble and cold-pressed dog food come in all shapes and sizes, so smaller breeds can choose from a smaller range. Pro Tip! She also loves tuna, which leaves her coat and skin looking lustrous and healthy and reduces shedding. When I add a topping, I reduce the amount of dry food she eats marginally to prevent her from gaining weight. As a result, the higher the water content, the fewer nutrients, so your Golden Retriever will need to consume more to get all the nutrition he needs. Here are some things to know about wet dog food: Not every brand of canned food provides enough protein for your Golden Retriever. You should avoid low-quality wet foods since they commonly use thickeners such as wheat flour, white rice, or other grains. A wet diet may be more costly, especially if your dog is the size of a Golden, but it may be ideal if your dog enjoys eating a more significant portion. A wet diet may also be preferable for smaller breeds. If your dog is a picky eater or you have a senior Golden Retriever with a reduced appetite, wet food might be a better selection. You can also buy semi-moist dog foods. However, these are not as popular as they offer the least nutritional value and can be expensive. Unfortunately, dog food manufacturers incorporate sugar and salts to extend the shelf life of their products. Artificial color, chemical preservatives, and chemical flavor enhancers are commonly found in semi-moist foods. A semi-moist diet may not be suited to your Golden Retriever, especially if he is on the heavy side and needs to lose a few pounds. On the other hand, if your Golden Retriever has trouble digesting other food types, semi-moist food might be the best option. If he is a picky eater, he will appreciate the meaty flavor and find this kind of food more appealing. The foods may be mixed or alternated at each meal. For example, wet in the morning and dry in the evening or vice-versa. Home Produced Diet Some owners like to feed their Golden Retriever a home-produced diet referred to as home-feeders. Because of the ease and variety of dry and wet dog foods, I wondered why anyone would want to be a home feeder. Here are the main reasons people choose to feed a home-produced diet: Home feeders sought alternatives to commercial pet foods as they were worried about the nutritional value of the ingredients used. Home feeders enjoyed the process of preparing the food and strengthening the relationship with their dog or satisfying their opinions. Home feeders fear their dogs will merely not like or refuse to eat commercial dog food. A home-prepared diet may be essential to help with a diagnosis e. Home feeders sought comfort for dogs with chronic or terminal illnesses. There are several drawbacks to making dog food at home. It is possible, but it will take a lot of effort and hard work, and it may end up costing more than the highest-quality dog food available. Homemade diets can provide total nutrition. However, you need to make sure your Golden Retriever gets the correct balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins, and this is not easy to do every day. Professional pet nutritionists accredited by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition can also help you customize a balanced diet for your Golden Retriever. Here is their directory that you may find helpful. You should also cook vegetables and grains for easier digestion. Your dog will need routine health tests, ensuring that he does not lack any nutrients. While sled dogs and racing greyhounds have long eaten a raw food diet, there is a trend that surfaces now and again for feeding dogs an all-raw diet that includes raw meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruit, and some dairy. When determining whether or not to feed your Golden Retriever a raw diet, there are two crucial things to remember. The first is to ensure your dog has a well-balanced diet that includes all the nutrients he needs to stay healthy and disease-free. When feeding a growing puppy, this is especially necessary. For example, homemade raw diets can be challenging because you must ensure that you are not under or overfeeding essential nutrients. This is especially important if your Golden Retriever is sick, pregnant, or nursing and has different nutritional needs. Food safety concerns about bacterial or parasitic infection in raw meat are the second most crucial issue. When feeding raw foods to dogs, food poisoning is a significant concern. Many raw-feeders believe that eating a raw diet has numerous health benefits, including increased energy, improved digestion, a shinier coat, better skin, cleaner teeth, and overall healthier life. However, there have been insufficient studies to measure the risk or benefits of feeding dogs a raw diet. Therefore, most believed benefits of feeding raw foods remain speculative. Nonetheless, according to this study, there is enough evidence to compel vets to discuss the human health consequences of raw food diets with pet owners and the risk of disease to the pet. If you choose to feed your Golden Retriever a raw diet, you can do so at home or buy commercial raw foodstuffs. These include whole foods, usually sold frozen or freeze-dried, which brings me nicely onto the next topic. Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried You can feed your Golden Retriever a dehydrated or freeze-dried diet; both have become increasingly common in recent years. These diets are similar in that they extract moisture from the food to preserve it and eliminate the need for artificial preservatives, but they vary in several ways. Dehydrated foods. These are partially cooked at low temperatures to extract most of the water. The food is heated but not fully cooked, so nutrients and enzymes remain whole. They are a complete diet and are frequently seen as a step-up from ordinary extruded kibble. To make it edible, you need to add warm water to dehydrated dog food. As a result, the food has a texture comparable to canned wet food but is much less refined. These foods are easy to store, prepare, and have a long shelf life because they do not need refrigeration. A dehydrated diet is also a good option if your Golden has a sensitive stomach as the food is easier on the digestive system due to the gentle cooking method. Freeze-dried foods. In a nutshell, freeze-dried foods are essentially a repackaged raw diet. The raw ingredients in freeze-dried dog food are frozen, then placed in a vacuum to turn the moisture into vapor. After that, the food is sealed in an airtight container. Unlike a true raw diet, this method reduces the number of bacteria such as salmonella. Although freeze-dried food looks like kibble and does not need to be rehydrated before eating, your Golden Retriever will find it more palatable and digestible if some water is added first. They are usually very high protein diets with fruits and vegetables occasionally added. Freeze-dried foods are more expensive than regular kibble, but as the food has most moisture removed, they are more nutritionally dense, so you feed your Retriever less. Feeding Your Golden Feeding Your Golden With the wide array of foods available today, it can be hard to make a good choice of what to feed your golden. Goldens are particularly sensitive to dietary concerns, and feeding them a high quality diet can help boost their health and immune system. Feeding a high quality food is not necessarily more expensive. Price is misleading: cheaper foods require more volume to be fed, up to several cups at each meal. With the wide array of better foods available today, you can make a smart choice of what to feed your golden. A golden will normally eat about two cups of premium food per day. It can be adjusted a little more or less based on activity level and metabolism. Goldens are prone to skin problems, and a poor quality diet will cause skin problems which translates into costly veterinarian bills. You will need to go to the pet store to purchase your food. Grocery store brands do not offer the nutrition goldens need for good health. Do not be persuaded by fancy advertising. Many commonly hyped foods are not high quality and maybe lacking the necessary nutritional value for your dog. For example, Grain Free foods may play a major part in taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers and other large breed dogs. This deficiency can cause serious heart problems for your dog see Taurine and Grain Free information on this web page. Here are some guidelines: Look for food free of chemical preservatives. Some of these additives are suspected of causing cancer. Look for food preserved with Tocopherols Vitamins C and E as well as rosemary and other herbs. Make sure you have several months before this date. Frequent stores where there is a good turnover of food so you get a fresh bag. Always store dog food in a tight airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you only have one dog, consider buying pound bags instead of pounds bags so the food is fresher. Look for a food that has some form of meat as the first ingredient — such as lamb, chicken, or turkey. Avoid foods that have grain as the first ingredient. Also look for multiple meat proteins in the first seven ingredients. Protein from multiple sources is generally viewed as being beneficial such as lamb, chicken and fish , unless your dog is allergic to certain proteins. Dog food companies sometimes list several types of grains in the first seven ingredients. Beware of this — your dog needs animal protein in his diet! These are the intestines of the animal including what is in the intestines!! Most by-products are not desirable. By-products normally contain beaks, feet, feathers, heads and other slaughterhouse wastes — not the most nutritious part of the animal. Avoid foods that have sugars or artificial colors or flavors or a lot of added salt. Semi-moist dog foods are the worst — they usually are loaded with artificial colors and sugars. Added vitamins and minerals are beneficial only when applied after the baking process, because heat destroys vitamins. The best foods are made up of ingredients that would be suitable for human consumption. Most dog foods contain meat products that are not fit for human consumption. They can include meat from diseased livestock, condemned material from slaughterhouses such as tumors cut away from meat , and as horrible as it sounds, some pet foods include euthanized pets sold to rendering plants and even road kill. Is it any wonder why so many dogs die from cancer when they are being fed meat from these sources? Grains — many dog foods will contain some grains, for example, brown rice, barley, corn, wheat, etc. We have found that some goldens in our rescue program generally do poorly on a food that contains corn or soy. Many goldens are allergic to corn or wheat. So if your golden starts getting a lot of hot spots or skin problems — check his food. There is a big difference in quality of grain products. Look for whole rice or brown rice in the ingredients; white rice and ground brewers rice are much lower in nutrients than whole or brown rice. Often pet food companies take the sweepings off the mill floor and put it in pet food. Look for whole grains instead such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, or whole oats. Grain Free foods. Grain Free foods have become increasingly available as food companies try to offer foods that are easier to digest with lower levels of complex carbohydrates and grains. One misconception is that grain free dog food is also low-carb, however, vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, green peas and tapioca often replace the grains in grain-free dog foods, especially in kibble foods, making them as high or higher in carbohydrates than grain-based dog foods. Studies have shown peas, beans, pea starch, legumes, potatoes and sweet potatoes that have replaced the grains in dog foods block the function of taurine. Taurine, a sulfuric acid, is essential for healthy cardiovascular function in Golden Retrievers. If left untreated, taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers can cause dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , congestive heart failure and possibly death. Read all the ingredients in the food which should include taurine and check with your veterinarian before selecting or feeding any grain free food to your dog. Detailed information on dog food ingredients and taurine can be found on this web page under Taurine and Grain Free information and at: Diet Associated Heart Disease Treats — beware of many dog treats out there. They are filled with sugars, preservatives and artificial colors. Try buying biscuits at your local dog bakery or making some yourself. The dog food companies listed below have high quality treats available for your dog. Is your dog overweight? Beware of some diet dog foods, they can be loaded with fillers that provide no added nutrition. At least green beans are healthy. You can also use canned pumpkin. Typically goldens love it! DO NOT free feed your golden; instead feed a measured amount of food twice a day. Most adult goldens will eat 1 cup of premium dog food twice a day. Is your dog too fat? You should be able to feel its ribs and your dog should have a waist. We have found that we have a different view of what constitutes a fat dog than many veterinarians. They will typically allow dogs to carry more weight than is optimal. This perhaps is because they do not want to insult their clients and risk losing business. Letting your golden get too fat is like chopping years off of its life. We also see lots of hip problems with goldens, and keeping weight in check will give your dog better mobility. Fat goldens are an epidemic from our experience. We routinely get goldens into our rescue program that have to lose 30 — 40 pounds!!! Therefore we have a lot of experience at taking the weight off! It is very discouraging and upsetting when an adoptive home will let some weight creep back on. You may think you are loving your dog by giving it too much to eat, but if you really love it you will keep it at a normal weight. Remember — Ribs and Waists! Can you feel and see them on your dog? If not, break open the cans of green beans! The bottom line is read the ingredients, consult your veterinarian and research reliable resources. Making sure your dog has the best nutritional food will help to insure he has a long and healthy life. Here, from Whole Dog Journal, are some additional links for selecting best dry dog food and the best canned dog reviews. Goldens Rescued Since .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. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our home-based, family-owned Australian Labradoodle breeding program is located about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. We are committed to breeding authentic, multigenerational Australian Labradoodles with bloodlines originating from the two breeding research centers in Australia, Rutland Manor and Teagan Park. Multigen Australian Labradoodles are consistently non-shedding, allergy and asthma friendly, loving, calm, intuitive and at times quite comical. All of these qualities make them wonderful family companions as well as excellent therapy and service dogs. Raising puppies is a lot of fun but it is also a lot of work!! As a breeder, it is our responsibility to make the most of our puppy's critical growth periods and introduce them to as many new sights, sounds, smells and situations as possible. At birth, days 3 to 16 with Bio Sensor Stimulation, and right through to the day you take your new fur baby home we are handling and socializing our puppies. Ultimately, it is our goal is to provide you with a healthy, well socialized, intelligent, lovable, easily trained doodle that will be a joyful addition to your family for many years to come. The main goal of Brightstar Labradoodles is to introduce and produce healthy, intelligent, and loyal dogs that go far beyond what you expect from a dog. Their puppies receive daily socialization to ensure that they are well-rounded, confident, and affectionate. They also receive lots of love from the family so that their children can learn how to interact with them properly. They provide a genetic health guarantee for all of their labradoodle dogs and lifetime support for their customers. All Labradoodle breeders in this article except Brightstar Labradoodles are accredited with ALAA, so you can rest assured that their pups are healthy. They also take responsibility for the Labradoodles they raise before they can be taken home, making sure their families give them all the love and care they need before settling into their new homes. If you are looking for a labradoodle puppy, it is highly recommended to purchase one from an accredited breeder. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. Contact Ericas doodles is committed to helping our families bring a new family member into their lives. We have decided because families are struggling to stretch their dollars but still want to bring joy into their families we are reducing our prices effectively immediately. We have been professionally breeding Doodles over 20 years. We know this doodle breed inside and out. We are also state-licensed we are not a backyard breeder we stand behind our dogs. We are 45 minutes southwest of downtown Chicago. We are a family of 6 that loves the doodle breeds. My husband, myself and my 4 children are all involved in the daily care of our beautiful dogs. We have researched and selected the best quality dogs for our breeding program. Our dogs get lots of free time with our children to run free on our ten beautiful acres. Our puppies are raised in our home underfoot and get handled from the day they are born. We truly believe that our children are very instrumental in helping with the daily socializing of our babies. Socialization is the key for puppies developing into the lifelong companions that families can be proud to own. Our goal is to breed the most beautiful and healthy puppies that will bring happiness and joy in any family. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Mahomet Illinois and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

The Best Beds for a Pug Dog Overview Already know why the right bed is beneficial and just want to see recommendations? What about if his favorite spot for naps is right by your side on the sofa? Or if your own bed, full of fur, is proof that he loves sleeping with you? In fact, even if the above is true, choosing a quality bed for your Pug can benefit him in some very important ways. Let's look at how having his own bed can really help a Pug. Taking measures to help a Pug better cope when he's home by himself is a common issue for many owners. Issues like separation anxiety run rampant with the Pug breed, mostly due to the Pug being bred specifically as a companion dog. Unlike some other breeds that may have strong canine instincts to scent, hunt, retrieve, or guard, a Pug's deepest urge is to be with his humans. So, when he's alone, the worst set up for a Pug that struggles with this is to be in a large room or even worse, have free reign in an empty house. If your Pug needs to be more secure, you'll want him to have a great canine playpen and within that, a high quality bed. This works to offer the feeling of a 'den'; and when dogs have that feeling they calm down, are better able to relax and feel safer. The way in which a Pug carries himself puts a lot of wear and tear on joints, and in particular the hip joints and socket. It is important that a Pug has the right cushioning and support under his body when he rests and sleeps. With the right bed, weight will be evenly distributed without undue pressure on any one body point and the right orthopedic memory foam mattress will conform to the body for optimal comfort. If you looked at two 7 year old Pugs; one that mostly rested on the floor for years and the other rested and slept in a quality canine bed.Being a brachycephalic breed compressed snout often brings about some level of breathing issues. One fix to this is to offer more humidity in the air via a humidifier placed within close proximity. And another helpful method is to offer a Pug the right bed that allows his body to curl and position in a way that allows the neck to stretch. While you can always try to tuck a small pillow under your Pug, most likely it will slip out soon afterward. Additional Reasons Why a Human Bed is Not the Place for a Pug Hygiene - Particularly for Pug puppies and senior Pugs , but applicable to Pugs of all ages depending on their level of house training, a bed is the way to go if a Pug dribbles pee or even has a full accident. In addition, since this is a high-shedding breed, there is often a lot of fur left behind wherever a Pug tends to rest; and it's better to have this in one small area as opposed to your entire bed. Worsening separation anxiety - While both you and your Pug might love snoozing together, this can set him up to fail once he's home alone and wants to nap. Dogs that only have access to their own bed when alone can make a negative connection. Now that we've covered why the right canine bed is needed for proper body support, better breathing, and to help a Pug when home alone, let's look at which type of bed might be best for your Pug Bumpered, Bolster Beds What these are: These types of beds have a flat support bottom and 3 side bumpers. These are easy for a puppy or dog to access and are easily moved from one spot to another. Why these are great: This is the best choice for most Pug puppies and dogs. These can be found sizes ranging from extra-small new puppy to small older puppy, young adult to medium full grown Pugs. These offer the secure feeling of a 'den', and the important neck and head side support pillows. What to look for: A memory foam mattress is a must if you want to offer the right support. You can find cheap dog beds for about half the price, but they'll be no matter than throwing down a blanket. You'll also want the side bumpers to be sturdy so that they do not compress thus nullifying their purpose. Also, look for a removable cover, so that you can wash it on a regular basis. Recommended Bolster Beds for Pugs: Each top choice is made with quality memory foam for optimum support. Flat Mattresses What these are: Unlike bumped beds that have attached side pillows, these are flat mattress. Though, some models can be found with one side pillow. Why this might be a good choice: There are some dogs, that no matter what, just love to lay on the floor. And if a Pug is very stubborn in that way, he may be reluctant to rest on an appropriate surface. In these cases, a flat mattress is a great idea. You'll still want that orthopedic memory foam, but you can also find it with this type of design. What to look for: As with any bed for a Pug, you'll want the mattress to be constructed of memory foam that conforms to the body and offers the right support. Look for a quality brand that won't flatten out. It's also best to have a removable cover so that you can wash off debris, pee dribble and fur. Recommended Bolster Beds for Pugs: Each top choice is made with thick memory foam for optimum support. Elevated Dog Beds What these are: Elevated dog beds are cots that are raised off of the floor by several inches and for the Pug breed, these do have some benefits. Why this might be a good choice: These types of canine beds are excellent for keeping a dog cool since they allow for air flow underneath the body and are not constructed with thick materials. And since the Pug is indeed a breed that tends to overheat, an elevated bed can be a great option for some of you. If you live in a hot climate and the house tends to get stuffy, these work well. Also, these are fantastic to use as portable resting areas for a Pug outside in the summertime. A Pug can stay out much longer in the heat if he has adequate water, is in the shade and is resting on this sort of cot. What to look for: Since the goal of this type of canine bed is to offer a place to stay cool, look for one that is constructed of breathable fabric for optimal cooling. Because quality is key so that seams do not rip be sure that it is rated high for sturdiness with a strong frame. If you will be using this outdoors, you'll want the fabric to be mold and water resistant. Recommended Elevated Beds for Pugs: If your Pug could use some help staying cool, these are some great choices. You May Also Like: Choosing the right bowl for a Pug - It's important to have the right dishes for both food and water. This can affect everything from a Pug's comfort when eating and drinking to serious issues such as bloat. How to Discipline a Pug - Pugs have quite amusing personalities, but it's not funny if your dog never listens to you. Learn the best way to show him right from wrong, for a well-behaved Pug. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Since it has a stuffing like filling, it can go flat faster than other beds. Holds on to odor quickly unless washed. Not ideal for dogs with sensitive skin. It comes in many different colors that could fit in better with your home, and it also comes in different sizes that could comfortably fit the crate you have. Out of all the dog beds I have researched, this also is the only one that says it is hypoallergenic, so if you have a sensitive dog, this could help them sleep better. Pros: Cheap price for the type of bedding. Multiple modern colors to choose from. Waterproof lining under cover to completely protect the foam. Really thick foam for orthopedic support. Hypoallergenic materials that is resistant to dust. Perfect fit for crates. Flat style bed with no bolster support for the neck. If your dog digs before they lay down, they can wear out the cover quicker. The suede fabric can get pretty nasty after a while. I think it is perfect because not only does it have a bolster to let your Pug prop up their head and stretch out their neck. But it is also elevated to allow for air to flow around it to let them cool off in warm months. It is made to be an outdoor bed, so the material is made waterproof. Pros: Water resistant for outdoor use with a mesh middle to keep dry. Lightweight and easy to pack down for travel. Elevated style to regulate temperature. Bolster for comfort and to allow your Pug to stretch out their neck. Elevated cot also allows for joint relief. No tools needed for assembly. Cons: Non-washable like it says, the stuffing in the bolster will come out. Easy to chew apart into shreds. Proven to not be that long lasting. Can be very creaky when your dog gets up and down during the night. It is made to be water resistant, and the cover on it can be removed, washed, or replaced with no issue. I personally think this is a pretty stylish and comfy bed that could really help a Pug with any joint issues. Even though it is on the expensive side for dog beds, it seems to be made out of quality material and well made. Pros: Soft memory foam bedding for peak comfort. Bolster for comfort and a cozy feeling. Very durable cover that can be removed and washed. Waterproof cover that is not easy to tear. Non slip bottom to keep it in place. Easy to spot clean and to remove hair. Cons: Lighter colors show slobber stains and hair easier. Can become way too hot in warmer climates. It has a soft bedding lining with a plump bolster around the sides for your Pug to lay comfortably. The bolster is even detachable so it can be washed after any slobbery dreams. The memory foam mattress is perfect for any dog with joint problems or aches. Pros: Detachable bolster for easier washing. Non-slip bottom to keep it in place. Memory foam mattress made for comfort. Water resistant liner so the mattress can remain clean. Bolster for a pillow-like support. Not too expensive for this kind of bed. Cons: Sides can collapse from overuse. It has proven to many that have bought it that it is super comfortable to dog standards. It is made with quality materials even though it is not waterproof. Pros: Very sturdy bolster sidings that can hold up for support. It has a good amount of thick foam that fills the cover completely. Perfect to stretch out in and relax. Cons: Expensive for the type of bed with not many choices. Not recommended for dogs that chew on everything. It is elevated and water resistant with a mesh middle. It is very simple to put together and does not require any tools. I think the best thing about it is that it is perfect for warmer climates. The elevation and mesh make it easy for your dog to cool off and just relax without overheating. Another great thing about it is the hammock like mesh that relieves stress on dogs joints. Pros: Non-Slip feet to keep it in place. Water resistant and easy to clean off. Elevated to allow your dog to cool off during warmer weather. Hammock for joint relief. Light-weight and easy to travel with. Cons: Mesh can get ripped and pulled by dog nails. May not be the most comfortable for senior dogs. Cover is not made to a great quality. Non-skid feet can rub against floors. It has a nice bolster that goes almost all the way around it which gives it a nice cozy feeling. Not to mention this bed has memory foam in it so your Pug will sleep so comfortably. Pros: Memory foam mattress for comfort. Bolster sides for your Pug to prop up onto. Canvas cover with water resistant liner. The memory foam mattress is thick so it is less likely to flatten. Cons: May need to reshape after washing. You have to put the bed together, it does not come as it shows. If your dog is a chewer, this may not last that long. Foam can get to be a little firm. It is about four inches thick and comes with not just the memory foam but a firm foam base to keep it from flattening too fast. Though this does make it a bit on the taller side that makes it harder for senior dogs to get into. The cover is removable and washable, though it may have some trouble with the grips so it is suggested to air dry. Pros: Really thick memory foam insert with a sturdy foam base. Washable and easily removable cover. Non-slip grips on the bottom of the bed. Soft and comfortable but firm to withstand constant use. Waterproof cover to protect the foam from accidents. Cons: Flat style bed with no bolsters for neck supports. Needs constant maintenance to ensure there is no mold or mildew in the foam. The non-slip grips may fall off during wash. Too high off the floor for senior dogs to easily climb into. It is infused with gel and is made highly dense so your dog can get all the support they could need in a bed. It is made to be waterproof and even has two covers over it to make sure of it. Pros: Waterproof liner and two barrier covers to keep the foam dry. Gel infused memory foam for perfect support for joints. Very thick memory foam meant to keep shape for a while. Has hypoallergenic properties. Flat bed without any bolster supports. Does not come in sizes for really small Pugs. Denim can not withstand the might of chewers. Easily holds onto odor. I like this kind of bed for the reason that it allows for your dog to cool down fast and easier in the warm months. This bed is not only water resistant, but also mold and flea resistant. It is made to last through any weather conditions if you plan to have it as an outside bed. Pros: Water, mold, and flea resistant. Mesh hammock for joint support. Breathable fabric to disperse heat and allow air through. Super easy to wash and maintain. Lightweight and easy to travel with. Cons: May be hard for seniors or puppies since it is 7 inches from the ground. Fabric sags and needs to be retightened. You have to put it together yourself with tools to tighten bolts. No non-slip grips on the feet. The shape is unique, but the bolster seems like it could support even the heaviest sleeper since it is overstuffed. Pros: Has medical grade memory foam for support. Liner and cover can be removed and washed. Overstuffed and comfortable bolster. And this means that your choice of dog bed is just as important as other accessories like their lead or collar. After all, this is where your dog will spend their time resting and recovering. Find out how to choose the ideal dog bed for your Pug below. What Size Dog Bed for a Pug? If your dogs like to feel surrounded and protected, opt for a basket-type dog bed with a raised edge. When lying down, the edges should just touch your Pug on all sides, so that they feel safe and secure but not cramped. Some doggies don't like this type of bed, though. In this case, try a pillow dog bed without a rim, a rug, or a dog sofa. This is true for all dog breeds. First, you need to take into account the temperament of your Pug. You can make a plastic dog bed more cosy and comfortable by adding blankets and pillows. There are also leather and fabric dog beds on the market, which are less resistant but generally more comfortable. Your dog could swallow the debris from a wicker basket, causing intestinal obstruction or suffocation, which would require emergency veterinary intervention. Create a sleeping area for your Pug in a quiet spot, such as a corner of the living room. Even though this dog breed is kind and affectionate by nature, they might have a temper if woken up suddenly. Avoid having the dog bed high up as your dog gets older, as it can place stress on their joints having to jump up to it. Place a bowl of water nearby, especially in the summer, so that your Pug can quench their thirst at will. This topic is the subject of hot debate. In reality, the answer is more complex. Your dog needs to learn to be alone, including at night. Can Pugs Sleep Outside? The Pug is not at all suited to sleeping outdoors in a kennel. First, because they are sensitive to cold and heat, due to their flattened muzzle and short coat, your Pug's health could be seriously affected if left outside overnight. And secondly, because the Pug is a small, popular dog , at high risk of being stolen. A malicious person would have no trouble stealing your pooch away, even if they did bark to sound the alarm. For their safety and your peace of mind, always keep your Pug inside your home with you. Pugs are companion dogs anyway, and much more suited to life indoors. Change more than just your pet food, change your philosophy.

Make sure you understand the implications of investing in a Lab that was bred via runt breeding or a Lab that is diagnosed with dwarfism. Avoid getting your Lab through breeders who have purposefully bred dwarfism into their Lab puppies or through breeders who have purposefully bred litters to be smaller than average. Try and ensure that your Mini Labrador maintains a quality diet and eats a dog food specified for his age, weight and activity level. Keep up with routine grooming practices, and ensure your dog sees a vet regularly for wellness exams and check ups. In spite of not being the healthiest dogs, Mini Labradors are just as friendly, affectionate and playful as their full-sized counterparts. Mini Labrador dogs are still Labradors, and as such they are some of the most highly sought after dogs in the world. These dogs are renowned for their family-friendly temperament and companionability when it comes to children. They also get along great with other pets including both dogs and cats. Labradors are very high energy , however, which can be exhausting for the more laid back owner. That said, in the right home and with an active family , Labrador dogs can thrive. They are incredibly intelligent as well, meaning training is a breeze. In fact, Labrador Retrievers are some of the top employed service dogs throughout the world, thanks to their keen sense of emotional intelligence and ability to pick up so quickly on what their people need of them. However, Labs can become very bonded with their family and do get bored easily when left alone for too long. This boredom can lead to destructive behaviors like digging, marking, barking and chewing. Mini Labrador Training and Socialization Requirements Like all dogs, the Mini Labrador should be trained and socialized at an early age to prevent behavioral issues. Like all dogs, Labrador Retrievers require plenty of socialization and training at an early age in order to grow up happy, healthy and well-rounded. Even though Labrador Retrievers are highly social and friendly, they can be prone to behavioral issues and even aggressive tendencies if they are not raised and socialized properly. Because they are so intelligent, Labrador Retrievers love to learn. They are also eager to please and highly food motivated. Instead, use positive reinforcement tactics like treats and praise. If you find your Mini Labrador is becoming distracted or bored during training sessions, try and offer several five minute sessions throughout the day and provide him with plenty of breaks and playtime in between. Tips on Socializing Your Mini Labrador Socializing your Mini Labrador is just as vital as training is to his overall health and happiness. A dog who is properly socialized is a confident, well-rounded dog that is less likely to exhibit aggressive tendencies and fear-based behavioral issues. Try and ensure your dog has positive first time experiences and as many new experiences as possible as he develops. Introduce him to different people, children, other dogs, sights, sounds, and so on. Encourage your Mini Labrador gently using treats and praise to help him associate the world around him with something positive. Most importantly, avoid forcing your Mini Labrador into a situation or experience he is clearly frightened of. Doing so could exasperate his fear and lead to future problems down the road. Labrador Retrievers are naturally energetic dogs. Bred water retrieving dogs, these guys love to be with their people and will enjoy being outside and having a job to do. A Mini Labrador will be no different, and will enjoy a variety of exercise routines including both mental and physical exercises designed to keep him healthy and happy. Mental Exercise Labs are considered some of the smartest dogs in the canine kingdom. As such, they are happiest when they have jobs to do or when they are given plenty of appropriate, dog-safe activities to keep them busy. We recommend investing in interactive puzzle toys and slow feeders to keep your Mini Lab engaged and challenged. You can also take time to set up fun little obstacle courses in and outside of your home with furniture or appliances and encourage your dog to complete these courses for treats. Not only will this help keep your dog mentally and physically sound, it will help build the bond between the two of you. Remember, Dwarf Labradors can suffer from a higher rate of bone and joint issues, spinal issues and chronic pain. They may also suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome due to their abnormal skull development. This can lead to respiratory issues, heat intolerance and exercise induced collapse. When dealing with a Dwarf Labrador or Mini Labrador, be sure not to over-exercise your dog and to monitor him in warmer weather. The appropriate exercise for a Mini Labrador will include about 30 to 45 minutes of exercise a day as well as free playtime in a securely fenced backyard. Mini Labrador dogs are also highly social and get along with other canines, so dog parks are another great way for your Mini Labrador to have his exercise needs met. This is especially beneficial for dogs who might suffer from breathing difficulties. The harness is ideal for medium sized dogs like Mini Labradors and will help you guide your Lab on walks easily and naturally. The material is comfortable for your Lab as well, and even includes reflective materials for safer evening walks. Still, they require routine grooming and upkeep to ensure they stay healthy. The Mini Labrador is a shedding dog, so he may not be the ideal companion for those who suffer from allergies. This is a breed who has a dense, double-coat that is weather resistant and self cleaning. The good news is that he only needs to be bathed once every six weeks or so with a quality dog shampoo and conditioner. Over-bathing your Mini Labrador can lead to skin and coat issues. Your Mini Labrador will not need hair cuts or trims, though he will need routine brushing. While he sheds year-round, the Mini Labrador sheds heaviest twice a year during the shedding season in Spring and Fall. During the shedding season, you may want to brush your lab a few times a week to collect and reduce loose hair from his undercoat and keep it from your clothing and furniture. Outside of shedding season, you can get by brushing your Mini Lab once a week. Along with bathing and brushing, the Mini Labrador should have his ears checked regularly to prevent chances of moisture and build up leading to an ear infection. His teeth should be brushed daily using a safe toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste , and his nails should be trimmed or ground down regularly. Gonicc Dog Nail Clippers. Lab Terrier mixes 2. Introducing The Gene For Dwarfism Dogs with dwarfism have disproportionately short bones in their legs. Many types of dwarfism are caused by a single gene mutation, which can occur spontaneously, or be introduced by out-crossing with another breed. However dwarfism is linked to an increased risk of skeletal disorders including arthritis and spinal disease. Selectively Breeding From Runts Finally, all Labrador litters have some variation in size between siblings. Puppies much smaller than the rest of their litter are known as runts, and they might remain smaller in adulthood too. Breeding runts from different litters together over several generations can produce a breeding line of unusually small dogs. Recreating these problems over several generations can produce small dogs who are prone to illness and fail to thrive. Not at all. Just like people, Labradors come in a range of healthy sizes. The AKC breed standard allows for male Labs to be 22 to 25 inches tall at the withers, and 65 to 80 pounds. Females can be 21 to 24 inches tall, and 55 to 70 pounds. And of course, these parameters only apply to show dogs. Even greater variation occurs healthily and naturally in the pet population. So if you want a naturally micro Labrador, how can you go about finding one? But one of the most reliable predictors is the size of their parents. When two healthy dogs at the low end of the normal weight range for Labs mate, their puppies are likely to be small for Labs as well. You can ask breeders about their size of their sire and dam when you call to ask about a litter, or research which waiting list to join. But be prepared to discover that your puppy may exceed all expectations anyway! Labradors can come in a surprising range of healthy weights. Their legs appear to be bent because they are malformed. This bone malformation causes them to have problems with their knee and hip joints, which can be painful and crippling. Any type of dwarfism can cause additional health problems to the animal. Although you associate dwarf Labradors with short legs, they can also have abnormally formed skulls. This can result in breathing problems. They can also have problems whelping, and require c-sections instead of being able to give birth naturally. Disproportionate leg and body lengths, such as seen to an extreme scale in the Dachshund, can also result in spinal problems and painful movements. Although some dwarf Labradors will live full and happy lives, they are at a greater risk than their unaffected cousins. It is therefore very important that Labrador breeders ensure that they do not breed from Labradors who carry the gene for dwarfism. Dwarf Labrador Health Tests Before you buy a Labrador, their breeder should have carried out a variety of health tests on both of the parents. One of the things you should make sure that they have tested for is dwarfism in Labradors. There is a test available for SD2, which will tell the breeder whether the parent carries the gene. No Lab with the gene should be bred to another with it, as they could result in the puppies having dwarfism. Miniature Labrador Breeders A Labrador Retriever small breed is something that has been coined by a few dog breeders to try and cash in on a market of dog lovers who want a small Labrador Retriever to fit into their lives. Every month hundreds of people scour the internet looking for a miniature black Lab or miniature chocolate Lab to join their family. And unscrupulous people will take advantage of these people who are innocently putting their faith in them to provide a happy, healthy new friend. They will provide you with clear, breed specific information. Those claiming to be miniature Labrador breeders may be producing puppies that carry the Labrador dwarfism gene. They may have cross bred their lines with a smaller breed of dog. Or they may be producing regular sized Labs and simply giving their customers the misleading impression that they will remain the same size. Words Of Warning From Lab Breeders If you are researching Labrador breeders, here are some negative buzzwords to keep your eyes peeled for: Micro Labrador Mini Labrador Miniature Labs These words demonstrate that the breeder is either lacking knowledge about Labradors or is trying to mislead puppy buyers. Either way, they are not the breeder that you want to approach. Well, yes, you can. Some Labradors are smaller than others! Within the bounds of usual Labrador size, they are a bit shorter, lighter and just plain littler than other Labs. You will also find that some English Labradors are chunky in build but short in height. Short legs are more fashionable in the show ring at the moment. So this can be removed as the reason for them being shorter legged. Small Labradors who are simply at the lower end of the normal spectrum can be found from reputable breeders, and they are a good option if you want a Labrador temperament in a slightly smaller package. The other option is to buy a Labrador mix, who is crossed with a smaller breed of dog. Just make sure that you check out the health tests that are relevant to this breed as well before you commit to the puppy. But no healthy Labrador will stay small to the miniature extent. Lab puppies that stay really small do so because they are undernourished, ill or have a disease. Even dwarf Labradors are only around 2. If you want a small Labrador Retriever, then think about why. Is it to do with a lack of space, or simply a personal taste issue? Small dog breeds are popular at the moment, but fashions change and the most important part of any pet is their personality and temperament. I hope that you will decide that a full sized Labrador is worth the loss of space on the couch, in exchange for the love and devotion they will give you for the next ten years. Find Out More About Labradors!