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My story started here. My best friend, my constant companion, everywhere I went, she went with me. She protected me, helped teach me about life, and was my Best friend for 16 years. My inspiration. I'm Robin.I breed long coated German shepherds. My dogs are from European countries with outstanding lines. I breed for temperaments, beautiful red and black color, quality not quantity. I am a small hobby breeder, breeding with attention to detail. My dogs live with me in my home, not outside in kennels. They are a part of our family. Feel free to visit our Ranch in Pennsylvania to see for yourself. SG1 Baldrsens Tequila is beautiful, graceful,and with great confirmation in show lines. Tequila is very protective of her family. Excellent Mother! They say the eyes are the mirror to the soul. Our Bobbie is protective of her family, a joy to be around and one of the prettiest long coat Black German shepherds I ever had the pleasure to own and love. Eve has Good Hips and Elbows, Dm test score is "A" Eve has matured into a very stunning female, highly intelligent, and is high drive with a willingness to learn. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. Nadelhaus breeds purebred German Shepherds year round and we also import both German Shepherd puppies and adults direct from Europe for our clients. Long-haired German Shepherds are technically called a long coat German Shepherd, while a short-haired German Shepherd is called a normal coat or stock coat German Shepherd. Dogs with either coat have the same physiological structure and both have double coats: an undercoat and a top coat. The only difference between the two is the top coat. The long haired German Shepherd will have a heavier top coat than the undercoat. The double coat of a German Shepherd is an important feature of the breed. The double coat weathers and insulates the dogs—it protects them from the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer. The length of the coat of a German Shepherd has no impact on its ability as a working dog. What does a long haired German Shepherd look like? The skeleton and structure of a long-haired German Shepherd will be the same as a short-haired German Shepherd. Both dogs will have an undercoat, but the difference is that the top coat of a long-haired German Shepherd will be longer. The long coat GSD has longer and silkier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Short on the head, including the inside of the ears, on the front side of the legs, on the paws and toes, somewhat longer and more strongly covered in hair on the neck, almost forming a mane. On the back side of the legs the hair extends to the carpal joint or the hock and forms clear trousers on the back side of the haunches. Historically, German Shepherds originated in Germany and were native sheepdogs. He firmly believed that the standard of the German Shepherd breed should not include dogs with long hair. Throughout the s, long haired German Shepherds were considered unsuitable and unacceptable for breeding. It is important to note that long-haired German Shepherds are the result of natural genetic diversity and not a separate breed. Their long coats are an inherited trait that can occur when both parents carry the recessive long-hair gene. This gene manifests as a more luxurious and abundant coat, offering a striking contrast to the traditional short-haired German Shepherd appearance. The breeding of long-haired German Shepherds follows the same rigorous standards and principles as their short-haired counterparts. The focus remains on maintaining the breed's exceptional temperament, working abilities, and overall health. Over time, breeders recognized the value of long-haired German Shepherds and began selectively breeding them to maintain and enhance their unique characteristics. Through careful pairings and strategic breeding programs, the long-haired variety established itself as a distinct and cherished branch of the German Shepherd breed. How big do long-haired German Shepherds get? Long-haired German Shepherds are structurally the same as short-haired German Shepherds, therefore they can both grow to similar sizes. Males: inches tall, pounds Females: inches tall, pounds Since both German Shepherds are physiologically the same, they also have the same temperaments: loyal, intelligent, energetic, courageous and protective. German Shepherds are ranked 2 on the AKC Breed Popularity list and make for wonderful family companions and working dogs. How can I identify a long-haired German Shepherd puppy? In the photo below are two litter mates from a recent Nadelhaus litter. The puppy on the left is a long coat and the puppy on the right is a normal coat. The long coat has wispier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Long-hair female German Shepherd next to short-hair male German Shepherd. Genetically in German Shepherds, the short hair gene is dominant and the long hair gene is recessive. This means if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated, but neither carries the recessive long hair gene, then no long haired puppies can be produced. However, if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated and both carry the recessive gene, then long-haired German Shepherd puppies can be produced. Long-haired German Shepherds are considered a less common variant of the breed, adding to their allure and exclusivity. While short-haired German Shepherds dominate the breed standard, enthusiasts of long-haired Shepherds appreciate their unique beauty and elegant appearance. Due to their rarity, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization specializing in long-haired German Shepherds may require some research and patience. However, the joy of owning one of these beautiful dogs is well worth the effort for those who appreciate their longer coats and exceptional qualities. Do long-haired German Shepherds shed more than short-haired German Shepherds? No, this is a common misconception. Although they shed less than short haired German Shepherds, their coats still require regular maintenance. They will need regular brushing and grooming, especially if you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities with your GSD. While it is a rare occurrence for a long-haired GSD to not have an undercoat, most of them do have undercoats. And just like short-haired GSDs, their undercoats will shed more or less throughout the year depending on the season. Should I trim my long haired German Shepherd's coat? The decision to trim a long haired German Shepherd comes down to personal preference, but it is not a necessity. Trimming can help make for more manageable living around the house. If you choose to trim, you can trim around the backs of the ears, on the back of the legs both front and back and then thin the bushy tail. Shaving a German Shepherd on the other hand is never recommended. Their double coats help keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. What are long haired German Shepherds called? Regular brushing: Long-haired German Shepherds require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition. Finish your brushing session with a gentle dog brush to clean up loose hairs. Bathing and drying: It's important to bathe your long-haired German Shepherd as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all the shampoo to prevent any residue. After bathing, use a high-velocity dryer or a cool air dryer to dry their coat thoroughly, as moisture trapped in the fur can lead to skin issues. Professional grooming: Consider taking your long-haired German Shepherd to a professional groomer for occasional trimming and coat maintenance. A groomer can help keep the fur around sensitive areas, such as the paws and ears, tidy and reduce the chances of matting. Watch for seasonal shedding: Like all German Shepherds, long-haired ones will undergo shedding seasons. Be prepared for increased shedding during these times and brush your dog more frequently to remove loose hair. A de-shedding tool can be helpful in managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy. Remember, each dog is unique, and the specific care requirements may vary. Does Nadelhaus sell long haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short hair, we do have occasionally have long haired puppies. We breed all our German Shepherds in the black and red color. If you are looking for a long haired adult German Shepherd, we can also import long-haired German Shepherds direct from Europe. Contact us for more information. Our Dogs Info We specialize in the best quality long coat king German Shepherd's that have a large bone structure, straight backs and stunning long hair around their main. We love the fact that our German Shepherds are not only very large but come in stunning black and red mahogany color, and no two are ever the same! As you can imagine we fell head over heels for this world champions stunning intelligent breed. We use our experience as a reputable breeder to specialize in long coat German Shepherds for quality not quantity. We strive to produce not only great quality but also German shepherds with great health and great temperament that is tested with every litter. All our puppies are carefully checked by my vet for all the genetic issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, breathing problems, cherry eyes, heart murmurs, any sign of infection and come with a health guarantee and health certificate. They come home with full medical records, shots, dewormings, microchipping, and the full starter package! Our puppies are healthy, happy and come with a great amount of love to give. Our shepherds are raised indoors and are socialized by our whole family, they love kids and other pets. Our shepherds are never kenneled, even at night we put them in a doggy pen inside our home. Our shepherds are part of our family and without them the house would seem empty. We start potty training the new puppies at an early age and put them on shedueles so that when the puppies go to their forever homes they are pretty much potty trained. Caution If you have never owned a King German Shepherd you will see that they are great companions, love attention, intelligent, lovable and love to learn; you may even find that they are like potato chips — you can never have just one! Click pictures for more info about our dogs Puppies.

The orthopedic comfort of this raised bed available in 3 heights provides healthy support for English Bulldogs' hips and joints throughout their lifetime. English Bulldogs can enjoy the comfort of this raised bed with fabric choices for both indoors with a soft cordura, and outdoors to stay cool with vinyl weave. English Bulldog owners especially enjoy how easily Kuranda beds can be wiped clean. Originally bought for my large American Bulldog, now my older boxer sleeps with him all day which exceeds the beds weight rating but it hasn't budged. It's built to last and built very well with bombproof materials. You can also lift it with one finger. Michelle Mentor, OH my bulldog loves his bed I am very happy with this bed. It was incredibly easy to assemble. My Bulldog has gone through numerous bed and on the first day he tried to destroy it. The dog was worn out, but the bed remained practically new. Perfect for Bulldogs! I was at the end of my rope with my chewing, digging Bulldog puppy. We went with the Aluminum bed for durability and the Vinyl for easy cleaning and dig resistance. I have been amazed with this bed; our little girl has barely put a scratch on legs even though she tried quite hard the first few weeks. It's super easy to clean up all her shedding hair and slobber. How to pick the right dog bed for a bulldog? When choosing the right bed for your bulldog, it is important to consider factors like size, durability, ease of cleaning, and the style of the bed. This picture was taken after about 3 months of use. He loves it and prefers sleeping in it rather than his crate bed. Ollie was 5 months old in the picture and weighed about 35 lbs. What do bulldogs need out of a dog bed? Ideally, you have to choose one which is soft but not so soft that it does not provide the proper support for your dog. What other factors make a good dog bed for a bulldog? Beds that come with a breathable cover are a good option to be sure that your dog will be at ease irrespective of the season. For example, if your bulldog suffers from arthritis or other bone-related problems, a memory foam bed might be the right option for it. On the other hand, polyester might be a better material for puppies. What are the different materials dog beds are usually made out of? They are entirely smooth as well, which means that your dog will be at complete ease. They are also easy to wash and are waterproof, which makes them the most popular type of outer material for dog beds. When the bed consists of this material, it can last longer and is also aesthetically pleasing. Vinyl is versatile and a preferred option for many since it is easy to maintain. It is suitable for older dogs as well as younger ones. The older dogs can get proper bone joint support with this filling, because it can resist compression, which means that it will retain its shape. That, along with the fact that they are a more expensive option in general, makes it a less feasible option for the budget-conscious bed seeker. It is hypoallergenic, provides excellent insulation, and is lightweight and washable, which is why it is so widely used. Can dog beds be toxic for your dog? Dogs can be allergic to certain materials like formaldehyde, which can cause skin irritation. The best way to pick the safest bed for your dog is to choose a hypoallergenic bed. Photo by The Bulldog Blog Which dog bed brands are known for their quality? What makes them so good? Now that you are aware of the things which you should look for while choosing a dog bed, here are three brands and their top tier models to choose from. Brindle Brindle has been selling dog beds since .They specialize in versatile dog beds, which can provide proper support for your dog. Most of their dog beds are for orthopedic dogs, which means that adequate bone joint support is always on offer. It is available in six different design options and three sizes, which makes it easy for you to choose. It consists of a 2-inch conforming memory foam and 2-inch high-density support foam. The combination of both of these foam types makes it very comfortable. The zippered cover is easy to remove and wash. The waterproof layer beneath the cover ensures that you need not worry about any spills. It can handle a lot of wear and tear and has a non-slip bottom, which means that it remains in one place. They belong to the non-sporting category of doggos and love spending their days lazing around. Nonetheless, bulldogs are prone to overheating, allergies, and orthopedic problems. Our bully-specific article, with a top ten list for Best Dog Beds for Bulldogs, will set you on the right path! Our Top Pick For effortless post navigation, let us talk about our front-runner first. Pet parents will like this bed for their cuddly bulldog for several reasons. Firstly, this bed offers the benefits of an egg crate orthopedic foam mattress. Why do Bulldogs Need Special Considerations? Health Bulldogs have a unique physique. With their thick-set body and short legs, bulldogs have a tricky time getting comfortable. And sleeping on the floor can add to their discomfort. Without a proper bed, your bulldog may develop joint or ligament problems — which can lead to poor overall health. Additionally, not having a bulldog bed can lead to your pet napping on your bed or sofas, which may cause issues if your pet is prone to skin allergies. Allergy symptoms in bulldogs include dandruff, hair loss, or flaky skin — none of which you want on your furniture. Your bulldog is just as susceptible to weather changes as you are. Size Bulldogs are medium-size canines that can weigh anywhere from 40 to 50 pounds approx. Size Choosing a dog bed with enough space for your bulldog to get comfortable is crucial when buying bulldog beds. The pet bed needs to be sizable enough for your pup to be able to stretch its legs or curl up — whatever its preference. Dog beds that promise durability are made from top-notch materials. Comfort When it comes to a comfortable bed for your bulldog — the best judge is your pet. If your pet is a bulldog puppy who likes to sleep all curled up, a cuddler may suit you just fine. On the other hand, a memory foam dog bed with an anti-slip bottom is generally more suitable for older dogs. If your dog suffers from arthritis or joint pain, investing in an orthopedic bed or a dog bed with orthopedic foam will bring your bulldog much-needed relief from achy joints. Quality No matter the product — quality always matters. Thickness As we stated earlier, English Bulldogs tend to develop orthopedic problems or ligament injuries due to their physique. Types of Dog Beds for Bulldogs Here are some of the varieties you may encounter when looking for a dog bed for your comfort-loving bulldog. Basic Cushion or Pillow Beds Cushion or pillow dog beds are probably the most common type of bed products for pets. These beds are more like extra-large cushions that are available in various sizes according to the dog breed. Cushion dog beds are an excellent option for pet owners who have dogs that like sprawling out as they sleep or relax. In that case, opting for an orthopedic bed for your English bulldog is the best option. These certainly make for some of the best bulldog beds because they allow your dog to sleep in peace without being troubled by joint pain. Some beds offer orthopedic memory foam with a heating or cooling element to promote body temperature regulation. Fiber Filled Beds Unlike foam padding, fiber filled dog beds utilize a polyester filling to maximize comfort for your bulldog puppy. These dog beds are available in several shapes, sizes, and designs to give your pooch a spot to rest its eyes. Elevated Beds Elevated beds stand a few inches above the ground and include a durable fabric sleeping area for your pet to rest. Elevated dog beds are great for road trips, outings, and excursions because their design helps keep your bulldog off the ground and away from insects and pests. This type of bed is ideal as an outdoor dog bed for summers because the raised surface and breathable fabric construction allow for greater ventilation. Bolster or Sofa Style Beds The design of sofa or bolster style dog beds will typically include a raised side on one, two, or three sides of the bed. This type of bed is perfect for English bulldogs that like to snuggle or lean their head on a raised surface as they sleep. Donut or Bagel Shaped Beds Donut or bagel shaped beds have a raised rim that surrounds the bed, creating the shape of donut or bagel. These beds are also referred to as cuddlers and make an ideal snoozing spot for bulldogs who like to curl up in their sleep. Here are our top ten contenders for the best bulldog beds. Get it on Amazon Are you looking for a bed for your bulldog that offers the comfort of orthopedic memory foam, along with plush faux-fur and cuddly fiber-filled bolsters? But what makes this product the best dog bed for bulldogs is its two-layer foam construction. The base includes medical-grade foam, whereas you can choose from memory foam or cooling gel foam options for the top layer. The entire bed is machine washable and includes a non-skid anti slip bottom to ensure the bed stays in place. Get it on Amazon Kopeks is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the most reputable brands for dog beds. This bed is perfect for pet owners on the lookout for sleeping options for their family dogs. Apart from being a top-notch memory foam dog bed suitable for pets with hip dysplasia , the product also features a double-layer zippered cover machine washable along with an inner waterproof liner. Talk about an easy to clean dog bed. Get it on Amazon Give your dog a safe and near indestructible snoozing space with the Kuranda Dog Bed. Apart from being easy to clean, the Kuranda sleeping surface is also abrasion resistant and non-slip. Best of all, this item is easy to clean bye-bye to pet dander and offers a 1-year warranty. Available in different size variations, this bagel bed is perfect for all bulldog curlers and cuddlers — be it a Frenchie or a English bulldog. The microfiber cover is plushy and washing machine safe. Get it on Amazon The English Bulldog breed is prone to developing separation anxiety, and a bulldog pup can be quite tricky to calm down. Its raised rim feature can offer your pup superior comfort while the faux fur cover calms it down. The zippered cover is not only washer and dryer safe but super durable thanks to double overlock-stitching. Another notable feature is the soft, zippered velour cover that resists fur and dirt. This thing comes pretty close to doggy bed perfection. Get it on Amazon This bed may not be available on Chewy. The Odor Free Dog Bed by Green Breath Eco combines an odor-fighting bamboo feature with a memory foam construction to bring you a marvel in our best bed compilation. Just make sure to check this out. Get it on Amazon The Plush Dog Bed might just have what it takes to make all dogs fall in love with it. The cover features a swirly plushy design in an attractive grey shade. The bed is machine washable and dryer-safe. This bed is great to look at, economical, and suitable for large-sized breeds like bulldogs. Our Final Thoughts One of the best things we love about our job is getting to cover and review all things canine-related. What is the best bed for an English bulldog? Whether a bed is perfect for your pet or not — depends on your bulldog. However, generally, you should go for orthopedic dog beds for bulldogs with hypoallergenic removable covers to ensure they stay from achy joints and skin problems. What size bed does an English bulldog need? Generally, large or extra-large pet beds are perfectly suitable for bulldogs. However, puppies who like cuddling may require smaller-sized beds. Do dogs really need dog beds? Yes, dogs do need dog beds, at least one — if not two. Additionally, dogs are also great for keeping your pet warm in winters and ventilated in summers. Related Posts. For devoted dog owners, the comfort and well-being of their furry friends are of paramount importance. Bulldogs, with their unique body structure and specific needs, require special attention when it comes to selecting the right dog bed. In this article, a comprehensive list of the 16 best dog beds for Bulldogs in has been compiled, meticulously designed to provide optimal comfort and support for these beloved pets. Bulldogs are cherished for their adorable wrinkles, compact physique, and charming snoring, making them beloved companions. However, their muscular build and distinctive facial features necessitate a dog bed that is tailored to their requirements. A suitable bed can alleviate pressure points, support their joints, and ensure a good night's sleep, contributing to their overall health and well-being. These factors include bed size, support level, durability, ease of maintenance, and overall design. The carefully selected range of options caters to Bulldog puppies as they grow and senior Bulldogs in need of additional care. From memory foam beds that contour to their body shape and orthopedic mattresses providing superior joint support to beds equipped with cooling technology to regulate body temperature, the featured selection encompasses the latest advancements in dog bed design. Durability, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal have also been taken into account to ensure both the Bulldog and their owner are satisfied. Whether a Bulldog prefers stretching out, curling up, or snuggling into their bed, options have been identified to accommodate their specific sleeping preferences. Additionally, recognizing that pet owners have different budgets, the list includes beds that offer excellent value for money without compromising on quality. Investing in a high-quality dog bed designed for Bulldogs not only provides a place for them to relax but also ensures their comfort, supports their joints, and helps them wake up refreshed and ready for a day of play and cuddles. What type of bed is best for bulldogs? When it comes to selecting the best bed for Bulldogs, there are a few key factors to consider: Size and Shape: Bulldogs typically benefit from beds that are larger and have ample space for them to stretch out comfortably. A bed that is too small may cause discomfort and restrict their movement. Look for beds specifically designed for medium to large breeds or those labeled as suitable for Bulldogs. Support and Cushioning: Bulldogs have a unique body structure and are prone to joint issues, such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. Opt for beds that offer excellent support, such as orthopedic or memory foam beds. These types of beds conform to the dog's body shape, relieve pressure points, and provide optimal support for their joints. Durability: Bulldogs are known to be strong and sturdy, so choosing a bed that can withstand their weight and activity levels is crucial. Look for beds made from high-quality materials, preferably with reinforced stitching and durable fabrics that can withstand their enthusiastic nesting and scratching. Cooling Features: Bulldogs are susceptible to overheating due to their brachycephalic short-nosed structure. Beds with cooling properties, such as breathable fabrics or gel-infused memory foam, can help regulate their body temperature and provide a more comfortable sleeping environment. Easy Maintenance: Bulldogs may be prone to drooling, shedding, or accidents. Consider beds with removable and machine-washable covers to make cleaning hassle-free. Waterproof or stain-resistant materials can also be advantageous in keeping the bed fresh and clean. Safety Considerations: Bulldogs have a unique head and neck structure, so beds with raised sides or bolstered edges can offer added support and a sense of security. However, ensure that the bed design does not obstruct their breathing or cause discomfort. Remember, every Bulldog is different, and their preferences may vary. It's essential to observe your Bulldog's behavior and sleeping habits to determine the type of bed that suits them best. Consulting with your veterinarian can also provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your Bulldog's specific needs. Pupper Dog Bed Are you looking for the best bed for your dog who chews a lot? Your search is over with this superb dog bed, which provides comfort and toughness. This bed was made with high-quality components to provide your pet with a long-lasting, snug, and comfy sleeping area. Its excellent construction makes it abrasion-resistant, and its feature of ease of cleaning adds functionality to any family with dogs. You can be confident that your favorite dog will fit perfectly in this bed. Buddy Rest Titan Citadel Ballistic Dog Bed This outdoor dog bed is the ideal travel companion for your family's trips because it was designed for an active outdoor lifestyle. Your pet can always rely on a comfy resting location with their very own outdoor bed, whether you spend your time around the backyard pool or go on exciting adventures. This bed guarantees that your favorite pet will have a pleasant sanctuary to unwind and recharge no matter where your activities take you. The exterior shell has an eye-catching drop print and detailed embroidery that adds some personality and elegance to your pet's sleeping area. The integrated nylon carrying handle strap, which was designed for ease, makes transporting simple. Customers actively contribute to a cleaner environment by purchasing these products because they use less energy, gasoline, and landfill space. Although the initial cost might be higher, it ensures access to high-quality products that are made to last. This bed is skillfully made from sturdy polyester canvas and has durable double-stitched seams that are specifically made to endure the biting and scratching habits of canine pals. The removable cover's smooth corners and careful concealment of zippers make it a common target for energetic dogs and active puppies. It is also easily washing. This mattress ensures enduring resilience without sacrificing comfort. You may rest easy knowing that the bed can resist your pet's chewing activities as they enjoy a cozy resting area. Bingo Paw Waterproof Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed This bed provides the best defense against mishaps, spills, and wetness thanks to its waterproof cover, which also makes cleaning and upkeep a breeze. The tough fabric successfully repels water while still feeling soft and comfortable for your pet to cuddle on. The bolster form of the bed serves as a pillow as well as a sense of security for your dog, who may lay their head or lean against it for more comfort. The bolster is luxuriously and snugly filled with velvety cushioning, creating a place for your pet to unwind and relax in the utmost luxury. Gorilla Ballistic Tough Orthopedic Dog Bed Learn about the adaptability of Gorilla Ballistic Tough Rectangular Orthopedic Dog Beds, which provide a wide selection of sizes, materials, and thread colors to provide a personalized sleeping solution for each pup. Say goodbye to concerns that your dog may chew up your bed because these mattresses are made to endure their playful nature and active antics. You may be confident that your pet will have a comfortable sleeping space that is suited to their particular needs and preferences. A soft plush cushion in this bed gently cradles your pet's body, enabling them to sink into a cloud-like surface. It was carefully constructed for maximum comfort. The soft support offered by the orthopedic foam core eases joint pain and lessens strain on sore muscles. Additionally, the water-resistant base guarantees defense against unintentional spills, enhancing the bed's toughness and longevity. Funny Fuzzy Dog Bed — Donut The bed provides complete protection by blocking any urine or stains from penetrating through to the sponge thanks to its integrated waterproof cover. The actual bed is skillfully made from high-quality cotton fleece and velveteen, sporting a soft and thick fabric that makes for a pleasant and warm sleeping space for your cherished pet. Make sure they are as comfortable as possible with this lovely and simple-to-clean dog bed. The usefulness and visual appeal of this bed mat are perfectly balanced. Your pet's resting place will remain clean and dry thanks to its sturdy water-resistant shell's great protection against spills, moisture, and dirt. Snoozer Waterproof Rectangle Dog Bed Without bolsters, it gives your dog the flexibility to sprawl out in any direction and discover the most comfortable and relaxing sleeping posture. This bed is especially made to thrive in outdoor settings, whether your family's adventures take place in the backyard by the pool or take you on thrilling trips far from home. With this amazing bed, you can provide your pet with the utmost in outdoor comfort and relaxation. The mattress' sturdy Oxford fabric is made to endure abrasion, and its thick foam composition offers the best support, especially for older or injured animals. Additionally, the waterproof bottom of this bed effectively repels moisture, ensuring a cozy and dry sleeping environment for your pet. With a strong, handcrafted hardwood frame that mimics a stylish sofa and lovely leatherette upholstery, this wonderful bed emanates a modern charm. It not only simply blends in with a range of home decors, but it also guarantees simple cleaning, enabling you to keep up its spotless appearance with ease. Cycle Dog Waterproof Barrier Nestle Dog Bed This waterproof dog bed is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use and is made to resist all weather conditions while offering your dog the best protection possible. Its hardy exterior guarantees endurance and protects your pet from the outdoors. The Cycle Dog Waterproof Barrier Nestle Bed has a cushioned interior for maximum comfort, and its cotton-polyester blend fabric for insulation and breathability, keeping Fido comfortable all year long. Kuranda Silver Aluminum Dog Bed This business, which has a proud design tradition rooted in Maryland and a long history dating back to , has solidified its place as a market leader in producing high-quality dog beds. They constantly outperform expectations thanks to their unwavering dedication to superb design, premium materials, flawless workmanship, and unmatched customer service. Related Content. Are you asking yourself, is my English bulldog getting the proper sleep he needs? On average, Bulldogs need hours of sleep per day. So, how can you help your bulldog get the best rest and sleep possible their body requires? A well-made bed for a dog will greatly improve their quality of life. Senior dogs can benefit from orthopedic dog beds with memory foam to give them a comfortable resting place. Soothing Out Joint Pain: This breed of dog is prone to joint and muscle pain. A high-quality pet bed will help with joint pain that your bulldog may be experiencing while possibly also preventing future arthritic problems. Orthopedic beds are especially good for helping alleviate pain. Anxiety: Even a bulldog can have a stressful day. Having their own area will ease their anxiety and give them the space they need for some alone time and relaxation. The same goes for dog hair. One way to prevent this is for the dog to have his own bed to sleep on. For the most part, a large or an xlarge dog bed is suitable for bulldogs. An English Bulldog puppy, however, may like the security of a smaller bed, letting them cuddle. Every bulldog is slightly different in size. Getting the measurement on yours will help you shop for a dog bed accordingly. Washability: If your bulldog is a mess maker, getting a bed with removable covers that can be machine washed would be best. Style: Depending on what your English bulldog prefers, you can get a cave-like bed where your bulldog can walk in and get that enclosed feeling. Or you can get a flat-like bed where they can lie down and relax. Bolster beds have three sides or bolster pillows that allow the dog to lay against them, giving the dog an enclosed feeling of comfort and security. If your dog has anxiety, then a round bed that has calming abilities might be the perfect dog bed for you. English Bulldog Beds Review. Understand the importance of Bulldogs The Importance of The Right Bed In Bulldogs If your Bulldog sleeps with you in your bed or is allowed to crash on the couch, he still needs his bed. Dog and human sleep cycles differ, which can affect the quality of sleep for both. Picking the right bed for your Bulldog friend is vital, especially if they suffer from hip dysplasia, arthritis, or other joint issues. Joan C. Hendricks, the Gilbert S. Khan Dean of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, says Bulldogs are more prone to sleep apnea, a condition where they temporarily stop breathing, causing their bodies to jolt them awake to take a breath. Sleep apnea is common in short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs due to an ailment known as Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, which makes breathing difficult. A Bulldog who lives in a warm climate may not want to sleep in one of those cozy cave beds, and an older Bulldog with hip dysplasia or arthritis will not be fond of raised dog beds. Young bulldog puppies benefit from a waterproof bed as potty accidents are bound to happen. A good bed will promote good sleep. And this important why? The Size Typically, Bulldogs have an average height of 14 to 15 inches and can weigh 40 to 50 pounds. A good measure of scale is to get a dog bed that is 2 and 2. A perfect size bed will allow your dog to roll over while dreaming without falling off. Multiplying by 2 gives you 26 inches. Multiplying by 2. This bed size should provide ample space for your dog. Unfortunately, Bulldogs have a list of ailments. First, their thick, low-slung bodies, broad shoulders, and narrow hips make bulldogs prone to hip dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis and makes it difficult for them to get around. As puppies, they may also develop a problem known as osteochondritis dissecans or OCD. Durability How often do you return home to find that your Bulldog has chewed up your couch or pillows? Bulldogs can be serious chewers. It might be ideal for you to check our guide on the best indestructible dog beds if you have a power chewer at home. Waterproof beds are ideal if puppies or senior dogs with incontinence. If your Bulldog is a smelly one, cedar-filled beds are great for repelling foul odors. Make sure the foam provides proper support to their body from the hard floor. Look for memory foam, composite foam, and textile-based materials stuffing. Cotton or polyfill materials do not survive for long under the weight of dogs and do not provide the necessary support to their body. Remember, Bulldogs are brachycephalic. This breed has trouble breathing, so they have a low tolerance for vigorous exercise, making them prone to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. It must have a sturdy filling and decent thickness inside to withstand the English Bulldog weight. To avoid your Bulldog slipping off the bed when jumping in and out of bed, a no-skid bottom i. Ease of Cleaning There are several reasons you want to pick a bed for Bulldogs with easy cleaning features. For starters, Bulldogs shed moderately. Consequently, you will need to clean up a lot of dog hair from his bed. Bulldogs also tend to sleep with their tongues out. These behaviors are associated with an overbite or underbite , a common issue in this breed. The tongue can also hang out while Bulldogs sleep because they snore and have trouble breathing. Easy-to-wipe surfaces will also cut down on the number of wash cycles needed. Aim for machine-washable beds. Sleeping Patterns Shape Bulldogs might sleep on their backs, sides, or on their stomachs. For example, if your Bully likes to curl up, he might prefer a donut bed, while those who sprawl may choose a flatbed. English Bulldogs tend to measure between inches. A dog bed within these measurements or higher will be an excellent fit for your Bulldog pet. You now have an idea of the type of bed your Bulldog needs. So, what are the best bulldog beds? Chapter 2.

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A full-grown female English Bulldog weighs about ten pounds less at 40 to 44 pounds and stands at 12 to 14 inches tall. According to Care. This will be around inches tall for a male English Bulldog and approximately inches tall for a female English Bulldog. As for weight, a 6-month-old male English Bulldog will weigh about 33 to 37 pounds, while a 6-month-old female English Bulldog will weigh around 26 to 33 pounds. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide that details 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, dog safety, and more! How much bigger will my English Bulldog get? If your English Bulldog is over two years old, they are probably fully grown. Any additional weight they put on may be excess and should be discussed with your veterinarian. Do their paws look big next to the rest of their body? They may still have room to grow as this is a classic puppy feature! A dog rarely grows to be larger than their parents, so this will provide you with a general idea of their final adult size. What is the size of a full-grown English Bulldog? According to the Bulldog Club of America Bulldog Standards , an English Bulldog should appear stocky but symmetrical with no excessively prominent features. English Bulldogs are especially prone to gaining extra weight and may exceed these weight estimates. Your veterinarian will be happy to discuss food type, quantity, frequency of feedings, and treats to get your English Bulldog back to their ideal weight. English Bulldogs may require extra attention due to some genetic health problems that are common for the breed. For example, English Bulldogs will require regular at-home baths, this cleaning is specifically to prevent infections under their skin folds. English Bulldogs are also highly prone to putting on excess weight, which is detrimental to their health. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that .The English Bulldog is one of the most severely affected dog breeds and brachycephalic syndrome can lead to difficulty breathing, respiratory distress, heatstroke, and difficulty exercising due to their breathing restrictions. All of this can make weight loss even more difficult for the English Bulldog breed. Because your English Bulldog may have a harder time breathing than other dogs, your vet can recommend safe ways to allow them to exercise and enjoy life without getting overheated. If your pup has a particularly bad case and has difficulty breathing even when not exercising, you can talk to your veterinarian about surgery for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome which is a common procedure done to help English Bulldogs and other brachycephalic dog breeds, like pugs, breath more easily. Taking your English Bulldog to regular veterinary appointments to keep them healthy and happy is one of the best things you can do for them! Not only can your veterinarian provide personalized advice to keep your pup healthy, but they can screen for common English Bulldog health problems, like skin infections, hip and knee problems. Unfortunately, veterinary care can be pricey. Veterinarian treatments for health issues, like hip and knee problems, can easily cost thousands of dollars. Treating medical issues, like accidents or sudden illnesses, can be expensive, but this should never be the deciding factor in treating your English Bulldog. Final Considerations As pet parents, we do our part by providing quality food, exercise, and care at home, but we also need to take our dogs in for regular veterinary appointments. A professional can provide you with personalized recommendations for your dog, as well as testing to detect any health issues early on. Prevention and early detection are vital in keeping our dogs healthy and happy! English Bulldog puppies grow into silly, lovable, and wrinkly dogs with a lot of personality. Compare and enroll in a top English Bulldog insurance plan here and gain the peace of mind that you'll always be able to do the right ting for your pet. At Pawlicy Advisor, we always want the health care decisions you make for your pet to be based on what you and your veterinarian think is best for them rather than being limited by financial restrictions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Dog domestic dog The Bulldog is a British breed of dog of mastiff type. It may also be known as the English Bulldog or British Bulldog. It is a medium-sized, muscular dog of around 40—55 lb 18—25 kg. They have large heads with thick folds of skin around the face and shoulders, and a relatively flat face with a protruding lower jaw. The breed has significant health issues as a consequence of breeding for its distinctive appearance, including brachycephalia , hip dysplasia , heat sensitivity, and skin infections. Due to concerns about their quality of life, breeding Bulldogs is illegal in Norway and the Netherlands. The modern Bulldog was bred as a companion dog from the Old English Bulldog , a now-extinct breed used for bull-baiting , when the sport was outlawed in England under the Cruelty to Animals Act. While often used as a symbol of ferocity and courage, modern Bulldogs are generally friendly, amiable dogs. Bulldogs are now commonly kept as pets; in it was in twelfth place on a list of the breeds most frequently registered worldwide. The first reference to the word "Bulldog" is dated or in a letter by a man named Preswick Eaton where he writes: "procuer mee two good Bulldogs, and let them be sent by ye first shipp". This entailed the setting of dogs after placing wagers on each dog onto a tethered bull. The dog that grabbed the bull by the nose and pinned it to the ground would be the victor. It was common for a bull to maim or kill several dogs at such an event, either by goring, tossing, or trampling over them. Over the centuries, dogs used for bull-baiting developed the stocky bodies and massive heads and jaws that typify the breed, as well as a ferocious and savage temperament. Bull-baiting was made illegal in England by the Cruelty to Animals Act .However, emigrants did have a use for such dogs in the New World. In midth century New York, Bulldogs were used as a part of a citywide roundup effort led by Governor Richard Nicolls. Because cornering and leading wild bulls was dangerous, Bulldogs were trained to seize a bull by its nose long enough for a rope to be secured around its neck. Rockstro founded the first Bulldog Club. Three years after its opening the Club ceased to exist, not having organized a single show. Samuel Wickens, treasurer of the club, published this description in under the pseudonym Philo-Kuan. The first English Bulldog entered into the register was a male dog named Adam Adamo , born in .The founders of the club collected all available information about the breed and its best representatives and developed a new standard for the English Bulldog, which was published on 27 May , the same year they held the first breed show. Since , exhibitions of the club were held annually, except during the Second World War. On 17 May , the Bulldog Club was granted the status of a corporation and since then has carried the official name "The Bulldog Club, Inc. It is the oldest mono-breed dog kennel club in the world. King Orry was reminiscent of the original Bulldogs, lighter boned and very athletic. Dock Leaf was smaller and heavier set, more like modern Bulldogs. King Orry was declared the winner that year, finishing the mile 32 km walk while Dock Leaf collapsed and expired. Although not as physically capable as their ancestors, modern Bulldogs are much calmer and less aggressive. Note the "rope" over the nose, and pronounced underbite Bulldogs have characteristically wide heads and shoulders along with a pronounced mandibular prognathism. There are generally thick folds of skin on the brow; round, black, wide-set eyes; a short muzzle with characteristic folds called a rope or nose roll above the nose; hanging skin under the neck; drooping lips and pointed teeth, and an underbite with an upturned jaw. The coat is short, flat, and sleek with colours of red, fawn, white, brindle , and piebald. In the United Kingdom, the breed standards are 55 lb 25 kg for a male and 50 lb 23 kg for a female. These attributes should be countenanced by the expression and behavior". Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. At five to six years old, they start to show signs of aging. Those that died of old age had an average lifespan of 10 to 11 years. Left to right, the skulls are from approximately the s, s, and s. A study by the Royal Veterinary College found that Bulldogs are a much less healthy breed than average, with over twice the odds of being diagnosed with at least one of the common dog disorders investigated in the study. A degree of BOAS has been normalized in the breed, as an inevitable consequence of their distinctive face. Since dogs regulate heat primarily by panting, Bulldogs are very sensitive to heat; they may actually gain rather than lose heat due to their inefficient breathing, leading to a vicious cycle. Bulldogs must be given plenty of shade and water, and must be kept out of standing heat. If not properly exercised it is possible for a Bulldog to become overweight, which could lead to heart and lung problems, as well as stress on the joints. These cause the dog some discomfort, but are treatable either by vet or an experienced owner. Other problems can include cherry eye , a protrusion of the inner eyelid which can be corrected by a veterinarian , allergies , and hip issues in older Bulldogs. Due to the high volume of skin folds on the Bulldog's body, they have high prevalence of skin-fold dermatitis. Opposed by the British Bulldog Breed Council, it was speculated by the press that the changes would lead to a smaller head, fewer skin folds, a longer muzzle, and a taller thinner posture, in order to combat problems with respiration and breeding due to head size and width of shoulders. Among these is a fitness test where the dog has to walk 1 km 0. Its temperature and heart rate has to recover after 15 minutes. They are often used as mascots by universities, sports team, and other organizations. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bulldog Overview The Bulldog, a beloved and iconic dog breed , holds a special place in the hearts of many, with a history that spans centuries. With a history dating back to the 13th century, Bulldogs have evolved into the lovable and devoted companions we know today. Their journey from the bullbaiting pits to becoming cherished family pets is a testament to their adaptability and resilience. This breeds appearance is instantly recognizable, with its distinctive features and unique physique. Their short-muzzled head is massive and square, adorned with dense wrinkles that add to their endearing charm. These wrinkles serve a functional purpose, helping to protect their eyes and funnel moisture away from their face. Bulldogs have a muscular and low-slung body, coupled with a sturdy build and broad shoulders, giving them a powerful and determined appearance. Despite their strong physique, Bulldogs are surprisingly gentle and docile, making them excellent companions for families, including children. Their stocky legs and wide chest contribute to their distinctive gait, often described as a waddle rather than a typical walk. This amusing gait, combined with their snorting, snoring, and grunting habits, endears them to their owners and adds to their unique charm. Their devotion to their families knows no bounds. They thrive on human companionship and seek out attention from their owners. While Bulldogs are generally calm and dignified, they are also known for their courageous and protective instincts. Despite their sweet disposition, they will not hesitate to defend their loved ones if they sense any threat. Their loyalty and devotion to their family members are unmatched. Bulldogs are prone to respiratory and joint issues due to their distinctive facial structure and stocky body. Their popularity has grown steadily over the years, and they have become cherished pets in households worldwide. Their adaptability to various living situations, including apartments and family homes, has contributed to their status as a favored breed for many families. Their unique appearance, combined with their loving and devoted temperament, make them stand out among dog breeds. Whether they are representing school mascots or snuggling up with their owners on the couch, Bulldogs continue to win hearts with their irresistible charm and lovable character. For those seeking a canine companion filled with loyalty, love, and a touch of quirkiness, the Bulldog is an exceptional choice that will undoubtedly bring joy and affection to their home for years to come. Bulldog Highlights Bulldogs, with their charming and endearing personalities, are known for being a bit stubborn and inclined to laze around. As they mature, their enthusiasm for walks may wane, but it remains essential to provide them with daily exercise to maintain their physical fitness and overall well-being. In warm weather, Bulldogs can struggle to tolerate heat and humidity. Keeping a close eye on them when outdoors is crucial, as signs of overheating should not be ignored. Many caring owners find relief for their furry friends by offering kiddy play pools filled with refreshing water in shaded spots, creating a relaxing oasis for Bulldogs to enjoy while everyone is outside. Conversely, Bulldogs are also sensitive to cold weather. During chilly days, providing them with appropriate protection, such as cozy blankets or insulated jackets, will ensure their comfort and safety. As affectionate as Bulldogs are, their distinctive wheezing, snorting, and snoring sounds are part of their charm. Yet, these adorable noises can sometimes be accompanied by sleep apnea , a condition that requires attention and care from their loving owners. Bulldogs have also earned a reputation for their occasional bouts of flatulence. While this is common among the breed, excessive gas may warrant a visit to the vet to ensure there are no underlying health concerns. Due to their characteristic short noses, Bulldogs are prone to respiratory ailments. Some may even have pinched nostrils, making breathing more challenging, and in severe cases, surgical correction might be necessary to alleviate their discomfort. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for Bulldogs, as they have a propensity to be greedy eaters. Without careful monitoring of their food intake, they can easily become overweight or even obese, which can lead to various health problems. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential to keep these charming canines fit and happy. When it comes to reproduction, Bulldogs face unique challenges. Their relatively large heads and front structure often necessitate caesarean sections for safe delivery of their puppies. Therefore, breeding Bulldogs requires experienced and responsible practices to ensure the well-being of both mother and offspring. Discussing this matter with the veterinarian beforehand is essential to ensure their safety and well-being. In the quest for a healthy and well-adjusted Bulldog, it is vital to avoid obtaining puppies from unethical sources like backyard breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Instead, responsible pet seekers should seek reputable breeders who prioritize genetic health testing and good temperaments in their breeding dogs. With proper care, attention, and love, Bulldogs will flourish as devoted and cherished members of their families. Their unique personalities and delightful quirks will undoubtedly win the hearts of those fortunate enough to share their lives with these lovable and affectionate companions. By embracing the responsibility of providing for their specific needs and ensuring their happiness, Bulldog owners can look forward to years of joy and companionship with these endearing canine friends. Bulldog History The Bulldog of today stands in stark contrast to its ancestors, descended from ancient mastiff-type dogs and exclusively developed in England. It was an incredibly popular spectacle, captivating audiences in a time before professional sports, television, movies, or video games. The early Bulldogs were taller and heavier than their modern counterparts, selectively bred to excel at this gruesome activity. Their short, flat noses allowed them to breathe while maintaining their grip, and their tolerance for pain was heightened to endure the demanding battles. The wrinkled skin on their heads even had a practical purpose, redirecting blood away from their eyes during the gripping struggle. No longer bred for aggression, the Bulldog faced a transformation. Dedicated and patient breeders set their focus on the temperament of the breed, selecting only dogs with docile and gentle personalities for breeding. Over time, this re-engineering process successfully transformed the once ferocious Bulldog into the affectionate and amiable companion we know today. The journey to rehabilitate the Bulldog was not without challenges. In , the first Bulldog breed club was formed, but unfortunately disbanded after just three years. However, the tenacity of Bulldog enthusiasts prevailed, and in , The Bulldog Club of America was founded, establishing a new standard for the breed. This standard underwent revisions and adaptations, eventually gaining acceptance in and remaining in use to this day. As Bulldogs were brought to the United States, their popularity began to grow steadily, leading to their recognition by the American Kennel Club in .Throughout the s and s, Bulldogs enjoyed popularity, ranking close to the top 10 breeds. Today, they proudly stand as the 12th most popular breed among the registered by the AKC, a testament to their credentials as beloved companions. The transformation of the Bulldog from a once feared and ferocious creature to a friendly and tranquil companion stands as a testament to the human ability to rehabilitate and refine an entire breed through thoughtful and dedicated breeding practices. The once-feared Bulldog has evolved into a loving and cherished member of countless families, a triumph of human compassion and dedication. Bulldog Size A medium-sized breed, Bulldogs are known for their sturdy and compact build. Mature male Bulldogs usually weigh around 50 pounds, while females tend to be slightly lighter at approximately 40 pounds. For show dogs, the weight may be slightly higher, often adding about 10 pounds to their size. Despite their weight differences, Bulldogs maintain their iconic charm and distinctive appearance. In terms of height, Bulldogs typically stand between 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder. Their low-slung bodies and stocky frames give them a unique and endearing look. Despite their relatively short stature, Bulldogs exude confidence and presence, captivating everyone they encounter with their charming demeanor. Their compact size and well-proportioned bodies make Bulldogs agile and adaptable, making them excellent companions for various living situations. Their gentle and loving nature, combined with their unique physique, ensures that they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide. Whether as devoted family pets or show champions, Bulldogs leave an indelible impression wherever they go, becoming beloved companions to those lucky enough to have them by their side. Their mere presence is enough to deter any would-be intruders. Temperament is influenced by various factors, including genes, training , and socialization. To ensure your Bulldogs grow up to be well-adjusted dogs, early socialization is key. Expose them to a range of experiences, people, and environments during their formative months. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is an excellent way to kickstart their social education. Regularly inviting visitors and taking them to busy places will help them polish their social skills, turning them into delightful and well-rounded companions. With a blend of charm, courage, and affection, Bulldogs are truly one of a kind, canine confidants that will undoubtedly bring endless joy to your life. Bulldog Health Like all breeds, Bulldogs may be susceptible to certain diseases and conditions. Choosing a responsible breeder increases the likelihood of getting a healthy Bulldog, as they ensure vaccinations and deworming for their puppies. Responsible breeders use physically sound, mature dogs, testing them for genetic diseases relevant to the breed. The following conditions may affect Bulldogs: Cherry Eye: Cherry eye is a condition in which the gland under the third eyelid protrudes, creating a red, swollen appearance that resembles a cherry in the corner of the eye. While not typically painful, it can cause discomfort and potential irritation for the dog. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to reposition the gland and alleviate the issue. This can result in discomfort, redness, and a blue haze over the cornea. Veterinary consultation is essential to diagnose the condition accurately and provide appropriate eye drops or ointments to manage the symptoms effectively. In severe cases, corneal damage can occur. Surgical correction is often recommended to reposition the eyelids and prevent further complications. Inverted or Reverse Sneezing : While not a health problem per se, inverted or reverse sneezing is a common occurrence in Bulldogs. It happens when nasal fluids drip down the soft palate, causing a temporary closure of the airway. Owners can soothe their Bulldogs during these episodes by gently massaging their throat or offering a distraction. Brachycephalic Syndrome : Bulldogs, with their short heads and narrowed nostrils, can suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, which results in obstructed airways. This may cause noisy or labored breathing, especially during exercise or warm weather. Severe cases can lead to respiratory distress and even collapse. Head Shakes: Head shakes in Bulldogs can resemble fits but only affect the head. They are involuntary movements from side-to-side or up-and-down, possibly linked to stress or low blood sugar levels. If the shaking is unrelated to excitement or stress, a prompt veterinary visit is advised to rule out any underlying health issues causing discomfort. Timely veterinary attention is crucial to manage the condition effectively. Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a heritable condition in which the hip joint is improperly formed, leading to poor fit between the thighbone and hip socket. Although Bulldogs often show signs of hip dysplasia on X-rays due to their naturally shallow hip joints, they may not always experience significant lameness or pain. Proper weight management and controlled exercise can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of joint problems. Tail Problems: Some Bulldogs may have abnormal tail formations, such as screw tails or inverted tails, which can cause skin problems. Keeping the tail clean and dry is essential to prevent infections or irritations associated with these tail types. This can cause lameness, an abnormal gait, or even joint arthritis over time. Treatment options range from conservative management to surgical correction, depending on the severity of the condition. Bulldog Care Having a low to moderate energy level, bulldogs are well-suited for indoor living. They prefer a relaxed lifestyle and are content with about 15 minutes of play before needing a nap. This adaptable energy level makes Bulldogs suitable for various homes, from apartments to houses with yards. A mile or two walk during cooler times of the day is sufficient, but even a short stroll along your street brings them joy. Due to their brachycephalic pushed-in face structure, Bulldogs are sensitive to extreme hot or cold weather. They tend to breathe heavily and struggle to dissipate heat, making them susceptible to heatstroke, especially in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Providing a cool, air-conditioned environment and ensuring access to fresh water is crucial for their well-being. Another important consideration is their inability to swim due to their heavy heads. In terms of training, Bulldogs may not excel in obedience trials, but they are highly capable learners. They have an excellent memory and respond well to fun training sessions that involve repetition, positive reinforcement, food rewards, and praise. Patience and consistency are key to successful training with Bulldogs. Bulldog Feeding Feeding your Bulldog the right amount of high-quality dog food is essential for maintaining their health and well-being. However, the exact portion your adult dog needs depends on various factors, including size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Dogs, like people, are unique individuals, and their dietary needs can vary. Opting for high-quality dog food is crucial as it provides better nourishment, reducing the quantity needed to meet their dietary requirements. Be cautious not to overfeed your Bulldog, as obesity can strain their joints and lead to health issues. You can do this with the hands-on test by feeling their ribs without having to press hard. For more detailed guidance on feeding your Bulldog, consider our guidelines for choosing the right food , feeding puppies , and feeding adult dogs. Proper nutrition is vital for a happy and healthy life for your beloved Bulldog. The head is adorned with heavy wrinkles, and there are two loose folds forming a dewlap from the jaw to the chest. Bulldogs come in various colors, including red brindle, other brindles, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow pale cream to light fawn, pale yellow, or yellow-red , and piebald large patches of two or more colors. Solid black is less common and not highly admired in this breed. Daily cleaning of their face is essential, paying special attention to cleaning inside the wrinkles. Dry the wrinkles thoroughly after washing, and consider using baby wipes with lanolin and aloe vera for gentle cleaning. Bulldogs are moderate shedders, and regular brushing can help reduce hair on clothes and furniture. Other grooming needs include nail care and dental hygiene. Brush their teeth at least two or three times a week to prevent tartar buildup and bacteria. Regular grooming sessions also offer an opportunity to check for any sores, rashes, or signs of infection on their skin, ears, nose, mouth, eyes, and feet. The ears should smell good without excessive wax or debris, and the eyes should be clear without redness or discharge. Bulldog Children And Other Pets An amiable temperament and sturdy build make Bulldogs a wonderful companion for children, including young ones. Nevertheless, if they ever get tired of being tormented, they will simply walk away, showcasing their sensible judgment. Teach them to be gentle, respectful, and considerate towards their furry friend. Supervising any interactions between dogs and young children is of utmost importance to prevent any unintended mishaps, such as biting or pulling of ears and tail. No dog, including the gentle Bulldog, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. While Bulldogs are known for their amiable disposition, any breed of dog may react unpredictably to certain situations. Therefore, adult supervision is vital to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the dog during their interactions. Beyond their affinity for children, Bulldogs exhibit a pacific nature that extends to other pets, including dogs and cats. Their sociable demeanor makes them generally great companions for various household animals. However, like any dog, Bulldogs may display some reserve or caution when encountering unfamiliar dogs. Proper introductions and gradual socialization can help Bulldogs become more at ease in the presence of other canines. By teaching kids how to approach and interact with dogs respectfully and under adult supervision, the bond between Bulldogs and their human and animal companions can thrive in a harmonious and loving environment. Bulldog Rescue Groups Often, Bulldogs are acquired without a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities involved, leading many of them to find their way into rescue groups seeking adoption or foster care. However, opting to adopt an adult Bulldog presents several compelling advantages. Adult dogs frequently come with pre-existing housetraining and basic obedience skills, making the transition into a new home smoother. Moreover, they have already outgrown the boisterous puppy phase, sparing potential adopters from dealing with the inevitable mischief and destruction associated with young pups.

Greetings from Bruiser Bulldogs and The Wysongs We are a family absolutely in love with the Bulldog breed and are dedicated to breeding genetically healthy English Bulldog puppies. As responsible AKC English Bulldog breeders, our extensive experience and unique take on the need for a healthier English Bulldog has positioned our breeding program as a visionary leader for adopters in search of a higher quality Bulldog. At our core, we love placing healthy, properly socialized puppies into loving families. There is no greater joy than to be able to share our lifelong passion for English Bulldogs with our adopter families. Feel free to read our blog , watch our videos and learn why Bruiser Bulldogs is producing a better bulldog. Instead of focusing on maximizing wrinkles or winning in the show ring, we have built our foundational bloodlines over the past decade with a focus on health first on foremost. Sires and Dams are health tested with a unique criteria. Bruiser Bulldogs must breathe freely, move athletically while still maintaining that classic English Bulldog look that people around the world have come to love. Our goal has always been consistently produce puppies that are both a head turner and fundamentally healthy Bloodline development is the key to producing healthy bulldogs. We believe that foundational genetics are created through layer after layer of breeding healthy generations of bulldogs. Over the course of a decade, we have focused on a stringent set of health criteria to gradually improve the health and quality of the dogs we produce. The rare combination of experience, repetition, and ethical awareness of correct breeding practices has set our breeding program at the forefront of responsible breeding practices. The process truly is an adoption that affects the time, focus, and schedules of each household that gets a puppy from us. After a healthy puppy , the single most critical factor for a successful bulldog adoption is adopter support. The English Bulldog is unique breed with a unique set of caretaking criteria. Previous dog ownership, while helpful, is not enough to fully prepare an adopter for English Bulldog ownership. We always say the adoption is just the beginning of our journey. Through blog articles and email prep, we focus on such topics as socialization, crate training, disease prevention, potty training, nutrition, and basic puppy supplies to ensure that each adopter will be fully prepared for their new puppy. UKC Classification: Companion Dog Prevalence: Common The English bulldog is a brawny little powerhouse whose characteristic crablike waddle exudes great strength, stability and vigor. The dog's head is large and spherical, and the muzzle is extremely short, giving the face a flattened appearance. The English bulldog's eyes are dark and set low and wide on the forehead in the frontal plane. The nose is black and slightly upturned. The jaws or "chops" are massive, broad and undershot. The lower jaw juts out in front of the upper jaw to scarcely expose the lower incisors, producing a comical grin. The lips are fleshy and pendulous. The cheeks are well rounded and protrude sideways. The ears are thin, small and angle forward like flaps that frame the forehead. The English bulldog's neck is short and thick; the shoulders are massive, muscular and broad. The chest is deep and full, and the back is barreled and slightly arched. His rounded hips protrude slightly above the level of the back. The stubby tail is thick and either straight or screwed. His short, stocky legs have great muscle definition. They are splayed out and slightly bowed at the elbows and hocks to form a sturdy, base-wide stance. The English bulldog stands about 16 inches tall. The female weighs about 50 pounds 23 kilograms , and the male weighs about 54 pounds 24 kilograms. The English bulldog's skin is loose and pendant with heavy wrinkles and thick folds on the face and a dewlap hanging from the throat. The coat is short and fine textured. The various color patterns are brindle, piebald, and solid white, red, fawn or fallow. Personality: The English bulldog has a sweet, gentle disposition. Dependable and predictable, the bulldog is a wonderful family pet and loving to most children. People-oriented as a breed, they actively solicit human attention. However, they have retained the courage that was originally bred into them for bull baiting, so they make fine watchdogs. Although they generally get along well with other family pets, English bulldogs can be aggressive to unfamiliar dogs. Living With: English bulldogs make fine apartment pets and do not require a yard. Typically low-endurance dogs, they need only a moderate amount of exercise. They thrive best in temperate climates; they readily overheat and have breathing difficulties in hot weather, and they chill easily in cold temperatures. Generally loud breathers, English bulldogs tend to snore and wheeze. Many drool as well. They are moderate shedders and their short coats require little grooming. However, the wrinkles on the face should be wiped regularly to prevent skin infections. History: Named for its use in the sport of bull baiting, the English bulldog seems to have originated in the British Isles sometime prior to the 13th century. One of the few references to the sport dates back to , and talks about a butcher's dogs that chased a bull through the English town of Stamford. This pursuit so pleased the earl of the town that he inaugurated bull baiting as a sport in his domain. Today, the English bulldog makes a fine family pet. The AKC recognizes the breed simply as the bulldog. Related Pet Care Articles. A full-grown male English Bulldog weighs about 50 to 55 pounds and stands 14 to 16 inches tall. A full-grown female English Bulldog weighs about ten pounds less at 40 to 44 pounds and stands at 12 to 14 inches tall. According to Care. This will be around inches tall for a male English Bulldog and approximately inches tall for a female English Bulldog. As for weight, a 6-month-old male English Bulldog will weigh about 33 to 37 pounds, while a 6-month-old female English Bulldog will weigh around 26 to 33 pounds. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide that details 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, dog safety, and more! How much bigger will my English Bulldog get? If your English Bulldog is over two years old, they are probably fully grown. Any additional weight they put on may be excess and should be discussed with your veterinarian. Do their paws look big next to the rest of their body? They may still have room to grow as this is a classic puppy feature! A dog rarely grows to be larger than their parents, so this will provide you with a general idea of their final adult size. What is the size of a full-grown English Bulldog? According to the Bulldog Club of America Bulldog Standards , an English Bulldog should appear stocky but symmetrical with no excessively prominent features. English Bulldogs are especially prone to gaining extra weight and may exceed these weight estimates. Your veterinarian will be happy to discuss food type, quantity, frequency of feedings, and treats to get your English Bulldog back to their ideal weight. English Bulldogs may require extra attention due to some genetic health problems that are common for the breed. For example, English Bulldogs will require regular at-home baths, this cleaning is specifically to prevent infections under their skin folds. English Bulldogs are also highly prone to putting on excess weight, which is detrimental to their health. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that .The English Bulldog is one of the most severely affected dog breeds and brachycephalic syndrome can lead to difficulty breathing, respiratory distress, heatstroke, and difficulty exercising due to their breathing restrictions. All of this can make weight loss even more difficult for the English Bulldog breed. Because your English Bulldog may have a harder time breathing than other dogs, your vet can recommend safe ways to allow them to exercise and enjoy life without getting overheated. If your pup has a particularly bad case and has difficulty breathing even when not exercising, you can talk to your veterinarian about surgery for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome which is a common procedure done to help English Bulldogs and other brachycephalic dog breeds, like pugs, breath more easily. Taking your English Bulldog to regular veterinary appointments to keep them healthy and happy is one of the best things you can do for them! Not only can your veterinarian provide personalized advice to keep your pup healthy, but they can screen for common English Bulldog health problems, like skin infections, hip and knee problems. Unfortunately, veterinary care can be pricey. Veterinarian treatments for health issues, like hip and knee problems, can easily cost thousands of dollars. Treating medical issues, like accidents or sudden illnesses, can be expensive, but this should never be the deciding factor in treating your English Bulldog. Final Considerations As pet parents, we do our part by providing quality food, exercise, and care at home, but we also need to take our dogs in for regular veterinary appointments. A professional can provide you with personalized recommendations for your dog, as well as testing to detect any health issues early on. Prevention and early detection are vital in keeping our dogs healthy and happy! English Bulldog puppies grow into silly, lovable, and wrinkly dogs with a lot of personality. Compare and enroll in a top English Bulldog insurance plan here and gain the peace of mind that you'll always be able to do the right ting for your pet. At Pawlicy Advisor, we always want the health care decisions you make for your pet to be based on what you and your veterinarian think is best for them rather than being limited by financial restrictions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Dog domestic dog The Bulldog is a British breed of dog of mastiff type. It may also be known as the English Bulldog or British Bulldog. It is a medium-sized, muscular dog of around 40—55 lb 18—25 kg. They have large heads with thick folds of skin around the face and shoulders, and a relatively flat face with a protruding lower jaw. The breed has significant health issues as a consequence of breeding for its distinctive appearance, including brachycephalia , hip dysplasia , heat sensitivity, and skin infections. Due to concerns about their quality of life, breeding Bulldogs is illegal in Norway and the Netherlands. The modern Bulldog was bred as a companion dog from the Old English Bulldog , a now-extinct breed used for bull-baiting , when the sport was outlawed in England under the Cruelty to Animals Act. While often used as a symbol of ferocity and courage, modern Bulldogs are generally friendly, amiable dogs. Bulldogs are now commonly kept as pets; in it was in twelfth place on a list of the breeds most frequently registered worldwide. The first reference to the word "Bulldog" is dated or in a letter by a man named Preswick Eaton where he writes: "procuer mee two good Bulldogs, and let them be sent by ye first shipp". This entailed the setting of dogs after placing wagers on each dog onto a tethered bull. The dog that grabbed the bull by the nose and pinned it to the ground would be the victor. It was common for a bull to maim or kill several dogs at such an event, either by goring, tossing, or trampling over them. Over the centuries, dogs used for bull-baiting developed the stocky bodies and massive heads and jaws that typify the breed, as well as a ferocious and savage temperament. Bull-baiting was made illegal in England by the Cruelty to Animals Act .However, emigrants did have a use for such dogs in the New World. In midth century New York, Bulldogs were used as a part of a citywide roundup effort led by Governor Richard Nicolls. Because cornering and leading wild bulls was dangerous, Bulldogs were trained to seize a bull by its nose long enough for a rope to be secured around its neck. Rockstro founded the first Bulldog Club. Three years after its opening the Club ceased to exist, not having organized a single show. Samuel Wickens, treasurer of the club, published this description in under the pseudonym Philo-Kuan. The first English Bulldog entered into the register was a male dog named Adam Adamo , born in .The founders of the club collected all available information about the breed and its best representatives and developed a new standard for the English Bulldog, which was published on 27 May , the same year they held the first breed show. Since , exhibitions of the club were held annually, except during the Second World War. On 17 May , the Bulldog Club was granted the status of a corporation and since then has carried the official name "The Bulldog Club, Inc. It is the oldest mono-breed dog kennel club in the world. King Orry was reminiscent of the original Bulldogs, lighter boned and very athletic. Dock Leaf was smaller and heavier set, more like modern Bulldogs. King Orry was declared the winner that year, finishing the mile 32 km walk while Dock Leaf collapsed and expired. Although not as physically capable as their ancestors, modern Bulldogs are much calmer and less aggressive. Note the "rope" over the nose, and pronounced underbite Bulldogs have characteristically wide heads and shoulders along with a pronounced mandibular prognathism. There are generally thick folds of skin on the brow; round, black, wide-set eyes; a short muzzle with characteristic folds called a rope or nose roll above the nose; hanging skin under the neck; drooping lips and pointed teeth, and an underbite with an upturned jaw. The coat is short, flat, and sleek with colours of red, fawn, white, brindle , and piebald. In the United Kingdom, the breed standards are 55 lb 25 kg for a male and 50 lb 23 kg for a female. These attributes should be countenanced by the expression and behavior". Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. At five to six years old, they start to show signs of aging. Those that died of old age had an average lifespan of 10 to 11 years. Left to right, the skulls are from approximately the s, s, and s. A study by the Royal Veterinary College found that Bulldogs are a much less healthy breed than average, with over twice the odds of being diagnosed with at least one of the common dog disorders investigated in the study. A degree of BOAS has been normalized in the breed, as an inevitable consequence of their distinctive face. Since dogs regulate heat primarily by panting, Bulldogs are very sensitive to heat; they may actually gain rather than lose heat due to their inefficient breathing, leading to a vicious cycle. Bulldogs must be given plenty of shade and water, and must be kept out of standing heat. If not properly exercised it is possible for a Bulldog to become overweight, which could lead to heart and lung problems, as well as stress on the joints. These cause the dog some discomfort, but are treatable either by vet or an experienced owner. Other problems can include cherry eye , a protrusion of the inner eyelid which can be corrected by a veterinarian , allergies , and hip issues in older Bulldogs. Due to the high volume of skin folds on the Bulldog's body, they have high prevalence of skin-fold dermatitis. Opposed by the British Bulldog Breed Council, it was speculated by the press that the changes would lead to a smaller head, fewer skin folds, a longer muzzle, and a taller thinner posture, in order to combat problems with respiration and breeding due to head size and width of shoulders. Among these is a fitness test where the dog has to walk 1 km 0. Its temperature and heart rate has to recover after 15 minutes. They are often used as mascots by universities, sports team, and other organizations. Call Morgan at for specific pup identification if you are leaning towards placing an early deposit. Please check back, we update our website daily! Please see our Deposit Page and our Transportation Page for information on getting your puppy. We love the English bulldog temperament, physique and expression, I just personally like it to be about lbs. We find the smaller sizes are more buoyant and playful and, though still very heat sensitive, are better able to cope with life in general. Downsizing an AKC breed takes time. Our girls all come from long lines of lb. We not trying for 20 pounders…our goal is to have healthy, beautiful babies that consistently mature at lbs. If you see a puppy that tugs on your heartstrings please call, or go to our deposit page for more information. In the last few years it has become clear that most people would prefer their puppy to be transported using our White Glove transport or Nanny Flight transport. Today, we have requests for our Puppies from all over the country. Because of this, the majority those requesting a Sugarplum Bulldog Puppy have also requested transport to their area of the country; those in Florida, for example, cannot easily make the drive to RI. As such, the majority of our Puppies have shifted to a transport model; this gets them closer to their new forever home. Because of this, we have come to the decision, that for the well being of our Puppies and for the benefit of our new Sugarplum Bulldog owners, we have developed a transport model for our pups using our Puppy-Mobile with direct transport to the pups new Forever Home! Our Mid-Western breeding home is co-owned by Sugarplum Bulldogs, and our partner. I realize that not having a chance to play with the Pups is disappointing to some, but please understand that our team are dedicated to the highest level of care for our little Pups. We truly feel that this new model is in the best interested of our Puppies and their new homes. Please feel free to ask me any questions…. Life Span Did You Know? The loving and gentle English Bulldog is one of the most well-liked companion dog breeds around the world. A breed of English origins, the Bulldog was first recognized as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club in .The original use of this breed was Bull baiting, which was eventually outlawed with the establishment of the Cruelty to Animals Act of .This legislative act made the act of Bull and Bear baiting both illegal. The current role most suitable for the English Bulldog would be as a companion or family pet, given their sweet demeanor. The English Bulldog is relatively easy to train but definitely takes some work for more complicated commands. If you are looking for a breed to sit, stay, and play dead for treats, this is the breed for you. While they may not be the sharpest tool in the shed compared to some of the other highly intelligent breeds, they are easy going and apt to please their owner. Training this breed will be accomplished with less difficulty if you make the training reward based. Can you say Sweetheart? While this dog breed makes an above average watchdog because of their courage, this breed is a loving companion at heart. The Bulldog is excellent with kids when socialized and should be very agreeable with guests of the house. The English Bulldog breed as a whole is heralded as one of the most well liked companion breeds in the world. The Bulldog should do well with other family pets as long as properly introduced and socialized. They need to be socialized early and often to curb any negative feelings towards strange dogs. This breed is generally agreeable to most environments. Although they easily adapt to a noisy and chaotic household, they are not very tolerant of extreme weather, whether it be hot or cold. Although they are well liked and very popular, one must be aware of the potential health pitfalls with this breed. Some of the potential issues you can see with the English Bulldog is Cherry Eye, Entropion, or dysplasia. This breed also has a high risk for weight gain, so this should be monitored. An average Bulldog life span is between 8 and 12 years. You do not need to be a professional dog trainer to own an English Bulldog. They are good for most novice owners because they are passive by nature. The English Bulldog is an average shedder, so brushing him twice a week with a firm brush will be a good idea. Also, they can have a tendency to drool, so making sure you wipe their face off everyday can help ensure they do not suffer irritation on their faces and between their wrinkles. Because of the amount of wrinkles they have, it is recommended that you clean between the wrinkles fairly often to avoid irritations. The English Bulldog is a generally low energy breed. They do not require a lot of exercise, but when they do play, they play hard! Because they can be intense when they do have an energy burst, an owner must be aware of overexertion. They can be very playful, but do tend to tire out quickly. The English Bulldog is a short, stocky breed that should weigh between pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Warren G. Harding both owned English Bulldogs. Featured English Bulldog Article. Vocality level 1 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. He is willing to please, although he retains a stubborn streak. He is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. Upkeep The Bulldog appreciates a daily outing but cannot tolerate hot humid weather, which can be deadly. He should not be expected to jog or walk great distances, or to jump from any heights. Most Bulldogs cannot swim. Most Bulldogs wheeze and snore, and some drool. Coat care is minimal, but facial wrinkles and any folds around the tail should be cleaned daily. Special precautions must be taken when anesthetizing a Bulldog. Caesarean deliveries are commonly needed. Hip radiographs show most Bulldogs to be dysplastic but few show overt symptoms. History With the most distinctive mug in dogdom, the Bulldog has an equally distinctive history. Some Bulldogs were also set against bears for bear baiting, purely for entertainment. In , bull baiting was outlawed, and a new phase began for the Bulldog. By all rights, the breed should have become extinct, except that it had gained so many ardent admirers that they set out to rescue the Bulldog by selecting against ferocity while still maintaining—and often accentuating—its distinctive physical characteristics. Its tough steadfast persona led it to be identified as a national symbol of England. Its amiable clownish personality belies its appearance, and the Bulldog is a popular pet. Related Content.

Do they have a good reputation in the community? Is their facility clean and well-lit? What does the environment look like? If possible, call them and ask if it was easy to get their dogs and how long it took. You want someone who can answer all of these questions honestly and accurately for us! The Golden Retriever was developed in the 19th century by a man named Earl of Tweedale, who was looking for a companion dog to hunt rabbits and other small games. The Golden Retriever has been used as a hunting dog since its creation, but it also became popular with fishermen because it could pull nets from boats easier than most other breeds at sea. Golden Retrievers make good pets. Golden Retrievers are good with children, other dogs and cats if introduced early , and small animals like rabbits or guinea pigs, but not big ones like horses or sheep. Conclusion The Golden Retriever breed is one of the most popular dogs on the planet. They are intelligent and friendly, and they love to play with children. These beautiful dogs also make great pets for families who want a companion at home. About Grace Goldadors Breeding with passion and grace Grace Goldadors started out as an accidental litter of pups that turned into a passion to breed the most beautiful mix of pure breds designer breed. The two most popular family dogs, a Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever, come together to make an exceptional furever friend! Both dogs are known to be incredible family pets that do amazingly well with young kids and other animals. They are highly intelligent.They have a gorgeous countenance, with fur that is medium length in between a lab and a retriever. Our pups especially have the most incredible temperaments and personalities which is why we choose to only breed with our dam and the same sire. This also allows us to keep our dogs and pups health top priority. To learn more about our litters and how they are raised please visit the about page! If you are interested in one of our puppies please reach out letting us know a bit about yourself and your household. We would be happy to discuss things farther to make sure our pups are a good fit for your home! Please note that you will receive a response within 24 hours. Goldadors are very social, intelligent, easy to train and are an excellent family companion. Our Goldadors can be anywhere from lbs. Country Retrievers With the many requests for Country Retrievers also known as Comfort Retrievers or Golden Cockers , we spent time researching the cross over the past 2 years. This year, in , we are excited to introduce our first Country Retriever puppies! Country Retrievers are a smaller version of the Golden Retriever, with the combined friendliness, loyalty, and sweet temperaments of both breeds. Throw in a dash of the comical, playful spirit of the Cocker Spaniel, and the Comfort Retriever is lovingly referred to as the Forever Puppy. Golden Retriever The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular family pets. They are playful but gentle with children. They get along well with other pets, and are friendly to family and strangers alike. The intelligent Golden Retriever is very versatile. They excel in obedience training. Our Golden Retrievers can weigh between 55 — 75 pounds. Cocker Spaniel The Cocker Spaniel is a very gentle, easy-going, yet lively companion. Cocker Spaniels love their people families, love to snuggle, play together, and give a good laugh with their antics. They repay the loving they receive in multiples of loyalty and affection. Our Cocker Spaniels come in a variety of colours and can weigh from pounds. Genetics play an important role in the health and longevity of your puppy, but environmental factors play a greater role. Things like over and under stimulation, exercise, quality of food, home environment, etc… greatly affect the health and lifespan of your puppy. The quality of the nutrition your puppy receives directly affects his health, so we strongly recommend that your pup is fed top quality dog food. To protect each dog from negative breeding experiences and puppy mill conditions, the signing of a non-breeding contract is required. Our entire business is made to ensure that no dog is kept in unethical, inhumane conditions, and we are careful in screening potential puppy families to ensure each puppy goes to the best possible home. Follow Us. Mom is a gentle russet coloured golden, petite and slim build, and ever so gentle with people and other pets - except the ducks, she keeps trying to retreive them even if.Here is what you need to know about the.He is a 3 month old male golden retriever puppy. He is very friendly, calm and well socialized. He is dewormed and up to date on his second set of vaccines. Luna is looking for his forever.Mint Ottawa helloGolden retriever puppy! Number 3 in"puppy love"series. The adorable puppy is on a red sleigh and had a brass collar showing the year .Please see pictures for details and.Health checked very playful and sweet. Good with children and other animals, Purebred, no any issues! The hook hangs down from the metal plate in the back and is about 2. Born July 18, .Health tested parents, dogs live in our home along with our 3 young children. Excellent temperaments and well socialized. Is well-behaved and is not destructive in the house. Loves to run and play. A place with a fenced yard and a place to run.Charlie is crate trained and potty trained. She is very affectionate and energetic. Charlie would do best in a home that has a large fenced.He is peepad trained and goes outside to potty. Dog Walking Ottawa Hi! My name is Krysten and I am excited to offer dog walking in Smiths Falls and surrounding areas. I have had dogs my whole life and have 2 beautiful dogs now, a 9 month old Golden Retriever and a .Easy to hang hardware included. Handcrafted in the USA. Patented warp-resistant construction with solid matboard backing Shipping by seller.

We are a family of seven. My husband and I have been married over 17 years and have three boys 13, 11 and 9 years old and two girls aged 4 years old and almost 2 years old, as of May .We both grew up in small towns and love the country life. We are a Christian family that are committed to serving Christ in our community and are passionate about Youth Ministry and Missions work. Our hobbies include horseback riding, archery, baseball, soccer and piano right now. I have my Bachelor Degree in Biology. My focus has always been on genetics and love studying genetics. A special interest of mine has always been in colour genetics. I first learned about colour genetics with my Paints and Quarter Horses growing up, then with my Goldendoodles. I am a stay at home wife and mother and wouldn't want it any other way. Our kids are an integral part of the socialization of our puppies, as they spend many, many hours with the puppies throughout their time with us, until they go to their new homes. I am happy to talk about my dogs any time. Just give us a call. Summer Kent Family Farms is a family run farm. We breed Goldendoodles. I grew up with Golden Retrievers as a child and always loved the breed, but started searching for something similar that was more low shedding and hypoallergenic. I did a lot of research and decided that Goldendoodles were a phenomenal breed that encompassed everything we were looking for in a family dog. Our dogs are foremost our family pets and live with either us or a guardian home, so they get all the time that they deserve playing and just being a dog. In our breeding program we are careful to produce traits that would make excellent therapy dogs as well as family dogs. We want to produce dogs that are smaller than the golden retriever, so they are more easily adapted into urban or rural life. We also, will only be breeding dogs that exhibit Allergy Friendly and non-shedding traits, in order to maximize the percentage of allergy friendly traits in their puppies. As a bonus, we want to produce rare colours, not often seen in the Goldendoodles, including chocolate, chocolate merle and blue merle, parti, sable and phantom. Our Goldendoodle puppies have ranged from 15lbs to 55lbs full grown. We also have started breeding a limited amount of Bernedoodle litters that also come in all the colours we get in Goldendoodles. Our dogs all come with their first set of shots, a puppy package to go home with and a 2 year health guarantee. We extend our guarantee to 3 years if you use NuVet Vitamin Supplements. We want to maintain a small breeding program, while still producing quality puppies, with excellent temperaments through proper breeding and socialization. All our parent dogs are health tested and regularly vet checked. To see what health testing we do, go to the Breed Information page for all of the Health Testing information. We are located in Desbarats, Ontario on acres. Feel free to contact us and come to look at the dogs. A goldendoodle breeder in Kent who you can trust. Husband and wife team Nigel and Annie have been involved in the successful breeding and training of dogs for over thirty years. A goldendoodle breeder in Kent who you can rely on being council licensed, fully insured and offer life support goldendoodle puppy training advice to all of our goldendoodle puppy owners in Kent and across the world. The "My Posh Pup" goldendoodle breeder Kent puppy programme fully compliments the full time professions of Annie being a professional dog photographer after a rewarding career as a well respected dog groomer and Nigel being a government trained dog behaviourist and dog trainer covering Kent and across the UK having retired from the police dog unit in after twenty-seven years service. Goldendoodle puppy Kent are proud to be a council licensed goldendoodle breeder who have supplied goldendoodle puppies across Kent and throughout the world. A goldendoodle breeder in Kent who you can trust! By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies. Privacy Policy.

Airy, Maryland or Email for the fastest response at labpups gmail. Many great pups will be available for pickup. Please email us for additional information. Keep safe and well. Airy Maryland. Back in , I was visiting a neighboring farmer buying some hay. Upon walking into his backyard, I was greeted by 10 adorable black Lab puppies -- all attacking my shoe strings. At that very moment, seeing all the love they gave, I knew what I was destined to do. Over the next several years, I absorbed as much knowledge as possible about Labradors and breeding. I went all across the United States and purchased great breeding stock pups based on bloodlines, conformation and disposition in order to produce very high quality Labradors. Through the years, we have kept our business small because we love our dogs and feel the need to give them all the attention and love required by a Labrador. In the summer of we moved our labrador operation to a new location under the direct supervision of Shadyside Labradors located at Shadyside Drive, Mt Airy, MD. We, my sister and I look forward to continuing on with the same great dogs and the same management philosophy used since in this wonderful new home for our dogs on 28 acres of wonderful Carroll County farmland with gentle rolling hills and serene wooded paths. Best Regards, Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States due to its friendly and affectionate temperament. These dogs are great with children and even get along with other pets. The 6 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Maryland 1. Many people need to rehome their pets and often look to the animal shelter for help. Since the Labrador Retriever is so popular, you have a good chance of finding one there. Purchasing your pet from an animal shelter quite likely saves its life and frees up resources that the shelter can use for other animals in need. They have a complete website with plenty of information about Golden Retrievers and when their next litter will be available. You can also use this website to sign up for the waiting list. Hillcrest Retrievers Visit Their Website Woodbine, MD Hillcrest Retrievers are breeders and trainers that will help you get the puppy or looking for or train your misbehaving dog. They even offered to train you how to handle your puppies. They have been in operation since and have a comprehensive website we can sign up to get a notification when puppies are available. They only produced the occasional litter, but you can sign up on their website to get a notification when puppies are available. Until they sell them, they raise the dogs as part of their family, so they are well socialized with people and other pets by the time you adopt them. All puppies are born to dogs with outstanding AKC pedigrees, and they produce new litters frequently so you can sign up to the waiting list on their website. See Also:. The Labrador Retriever is also the most popular purebred dog in America for the 21st straight year. More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Annapolis. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: The ten reasons that I am giving for children to have a dog are not listed in order of importance. All of us have different characteristics which we find more important than others. Every reason I list, however, is important to the childhood of your son or daughter. Dogs can help children grow stronger. Just by being a part of the family, dogs can help contribute to keeping your children healthier. According to Science Daily, kids who grow up with dogs have fewer allergies and are less likely to have eczema than other children. They grow up with higher levels of certain immune system supporters that keep them in better shape as they get older. School systems report that children from homes with dogs also have fewer sick days during the school year. Another benefit in this area of physical strength is that kids who play with dogs can take falling down and rough and tumble play much better. Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! 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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share!

boxer lab puppy - The first vaccination for your Golden takes place between 6 to 8 weeks. Since everything is new to your pup, he might be timid and get easily scared. Golden puppies just left their source of security and are away from their littermates and mother for the first time. Bring your pup out to relieve him after every meal. Divide it into four small meals throughout the day. This is also the recommended age to start training. Housebreaking is especially important to avoid bad habits from developing. If you want him to be friendly to all, socialization at this age is also essential. This will help him grow familiar with strange sights, smells, and sounds. For the diet, stick to feeding him four small meals a day with the same amount mentioned for 7-week Goldens. After the vaccines, keep your Golden pup away from other pets for at least two weeks. Golden Retriever at 3 months This allows them to have full immunity, especially against the fatal parvovirus. They are becoming more curious, and you might have a problem with biting. Stay calm and teach him gently but firmly that he is not allowed to chew on you or anything else, except his chew toy. You can also acclimate him to grooming. Get him used to being combed and his paws handled. Introduce him to the blowdryer and praise him when he stays calm. You can start to be more serious about training. Spread 2 cups of kibble over the day, and cut one meal out by the end of the week. He should also be picking up basic commands. If your pup is quick to learn, kick it up a notch by teaching him a few tricks. Golden Retriever at 5 months Offer some chew toys that you can cool in the fridge to alleviate him discomfort. You may also start exercising him for 20 minutes a day, as this is the stage where he should show excitement for the outdoors. Swimming, fetch, and walking are great to start things off. Some Goldens are potty-trained around the 4-month mark, although accidents might still occur. He will have the body of an adult, but the legs and tail of a puppy. Golden Retriever at 6 months Also, his nose and ears will grow faster, so you end up with a goofy-looking pup. You need to be careful with him for the next six months because this is when they are most vulnerable to developing hip dysplasia. Avoid long walks, going down the stairs, and stopping suddenly while running. The pressure from those activities might cause joints to deform. Your Golden may also start to display signs of sexual maturity in the next few months, if not neutered or spayed. Some of them never grow out of it and will stay young at heart into their old age. To be sure he is free from hip dysplasia, have him checked by the vet when he is two years old. When do Golden Retrievers stop growing? Golden Retrievers grow the fastest between 3 to 6 months of age. Around the six-month mark, their growth starts to taper off. This will prevent him from reaching his full potential. If left untreated, it can cause lasting damage to their bones, muscles, immune system, skin, and digestive system. Being ill for an extended period might also affect his development. Your puppy may be stunted due to malnutrition. Dangers of stunted or accelerated growth Some people prefer bigger Goldens, but some like them small, like Mini Golden Retrievers. This might lead to under or over-feeding, neither of which is ideal. Accelerated growth can cause hip or elbow dysplasia. It can also be responsible for bone disease and arthritis. Stunted Golden puppies, whether by illness or under-feeding, are generally weaker, and make them susceptible to falling sick. What is the best age to spay or neuter your pup? You can spay Golden Retriever puppies as early as 8 weeks old, but any time before they reach sexual maturity is preferred, which is around one year old. This will prevent undesirable behaviors such as marking, territorial behavior, or a fixation with toys. All of which are hard to correct when they manifest. For breeds that are predisposed to hip dysplasia, vets recommend spaying around the 6-month mark. Will neutering or spaying your Golden pup affect his or her growth? Yes, fixing a Golden before they reach sexual maturity generally causes your dog to grow bigger. This is because sex hormones suppress growth hormones. Without growth inhibition, your Golden will continue to grow. Aside from joint problems, there are also a few issues connected to spaying or neutering. They can become more prone to some forms of cancer. Some dogs also experience a change in behavior after the operation. The lack of estrogen can make female dogs more aggressive. Male dogs may also experience an increase in fearfulness. Sexual maturity usually occurs in Golden around 8 to 12 months. This gives you ample time to decide whether to sterilize or not. How heavy is a newborn Golden Retriever puppy? But, puppies as small as 10 oz at birth have been recorded. They usually leave their mom at 10 lbs. Also, bigger litters generally have smaller puppies, but they should all catch up by their 8th week. How to identify an overweight Golden Retriever? Use your eyes and hands to assess if your Golden is overweight or not. A survey in showed that .While it might look cute or funny, overweight dogs actually have shorter lifespans. Being excessively chubby shaves off two years and causes health issues. Do Golden Retriever types have different growth rates? Show dogs are often heavier than working dogs. Aside from other factors we mentioned, a nutritious diet and an active lifestyle will help keep your Golden healthy and happy. Remember, their final size will vary from one another, depending on variation and pedigree. Types of Golden Retrievers There are mainly three subtypes of golden retrievers; American goldens, Canadian goldens, and British or English goldens. Although some argue there are more types, i. In fact, they are really one breed - the golden retriever. I mention it here because the weight of your golden retriever may vary based on which subtype they are. They typically weigh between 55 to 75 pounds and have a more athletic build. These dogs have longer legs and narrower heads with straighter muzzles than other golden retrievers. They also tend to have darker coats that range from golden to red or rust. Canadian Golden Retriever The Canadian golden retriever is similar in size to the American type but has a thicker coat due to its adaptation to cold weather conditions in Canada. These dogs can weigh between pounds, with males being larger than females on average. British Golden Retriever British golden retrievers tend to be slightly smaller in height and weight than their American or Canadian counterparts. You can usually recognize the British golden retrievers as their coat colors are typically much lighter than American or Canadian goldens, with the most common color being pale cream. However, they come in shades of gold: from pale cream to dark reddish-gold. When consulting our growth chart, expect to find the American and Canadian golden retrievers on the scale's upper end heavier , with the British goldens on the lower side. They should put on 1 - 2 lbs per week in the first two months. Their most significant growth spurt will be between 3 - 5 months, where they will put on 2 - 3 lbs per week. This should slow down by 6 months old, where they'll continue to put on 1 - 1. They may be fully grown at 1 year old but usually will have a slow growth rate of 0 - 1 lbs per week but only some weeks. Your puppy will go through five distinct stages to reach adulthood. To learn more about their behavior and development at each stage, see our page on the complete puppy development process from birth to 18 months. However, there are some alternatives to get a rough idea. While it's impossible to predict the exact size, there are ways to estimate their adult weight based on their parents and litter. The Parents Firstly, take a look at the parents' sizes. Golden retrievers typically weigh pounds for males and pounds for females. If both parents fall within this range, your pup will likely end up in this category. However, if one parent is significantly smaller or larger than the other, then there is a chance that your puppy may not follow the average weight range. Bear in mind male golden retriever puppies tend to take their size from the male parent, whereas female goldens take after their mothers. Littermates Another way to gauge your puppy's potential size is by examining its littermates. A puppy that is the biggest in the litter is much more likely to be a larger than average adult dog. Similarly, the runt of the litter is most likely to stay on the small side. However, it has been known for the runt to become one of the bigger adult dogs once they don't have to compete for food. Impact of Nutrition on Golden Retriever Growth Puppies are irresistible, with cute little faces and playful demeanors, but they require proper nutrition to grow healthy and strong. As a new puppy parent, you may wonder how much food is enough or how often to feed them. The impact of nutrition on puppy growth cannot be overstated, as it affects everything from weight gain and immune system development to bone density and overall health. One of the most critical factors in puppy nutrition is ensuring they receive the right amount of calories for their age, breed, size, and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to excessive weight gain, which strains your pup's joints and increases their risk for obesity-related health problems later in life. On the other hand, underfeeding can result in stunted growth or malnutrition. You can find more information about how to feed your puppy by consulting our puppy feeding guide here. It includes a schedule you can print out and a food calculator to determine how much to provide and how often. If you suspect your puppy is unwell, you must consult your veterinarian. These charts will help you see if your puppy is underweight, but you must also consider any symptoms you notice. Illness and puppy growth are concerns every new dog owner should be aware of. A puppy's immune system is not fully developed, so they are more susceptible to illnesses than adult dogs. This can impact their growth and development, causing long-term health problems if not addressed promptly. One of the most common illnesses in puppies is parvovirus, a highly contagious virus that attacks the gastrointestinal system. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. If left untreated, it can lead to dehydration and even death. Another concern is canine distemper, a virus that affects the respiratory and nervous systems. Symptoms include coughing, fever, seizures, and paralysis. Both illnesses can have lasting effects on a puppy's growth and development. If in doubt, consult your veterinarian immediately. Is My Puppy Too Thin? As a new puppy owner, it's only natural to be concerned about your furry friend's health and well-being. One common worry is whether your puppy is too thin. While every pup is different and body type varies, some general guidelines help you determine if your pet is at a healthy weight. Firstly, take a close look at their overall appearance. You should be able to feel their ribs with ease but not see them protruding from under the skin. Additionally, their waistline should be visible when looking down at them from above. They may carry excess weight if they appear round or bloated instead of having an hourglass shape. Another factor to consider is their energy levels and activity level. If they seem lethargic or struggle during playtime, this could indicate that they are underweight and not getting enough nutrients in their diet. Is My Puppy Too Fat? One of the most common questions that golden retriever owners ask themselves is whether their puppy is too fat. It's well-known that goldens love their food and tend to put on too much weight if not kept in check. It's also difficult to tell with a golden retriever puppy if it's fat or fluff. An excellent tool to tell if your puppy is too fat is to check their body condition score BCS. This scale ranges from , with 5 being ideal. If your puppy scores above a 5, they may carry excess weight. You can also check for physical signs like a lack of visible waist or feeling ribs with difficulty. If you do find that your pup is carrying extra pounds, don't despair! With small lifestyle changes like increasing exercise and adjusting their diet, you can help them lose weight and maintain a healthy BCS. Finally In conclusion, the Golden Retriever puppy weight chart is a great tool to help owners understand their pup's growth and development. It can be a reference point for tracking size, weight, and overall health progress. With the aid of this chart, owners can take proactive steps to ensure that their puppy receives the proper nutrition and care to develop into a healthy and happy adult dog. Frequenty Asked Questions How much should golden retriever puppies weigh? Your puppy's expected weight will depend on its age. Our puppy weight charts can tell you what to expect from one month to two years old. These charts consider factors such as age, gender, and breed size specific to golden retrievers so that you can get an accurate estimate for your pup. How big is a 10 week old Golden Retriever? A week-old golden retriever should weigh between 15 - 20 lbs for a male and 10 - 15 lbs for a female. How much should a week-old Golden Retriever puppy weigh? A week-old golden retriever should weigh between 20 - 25 lbs for a male and 15 - 20 lbs for a female. A week-old golden retriever should weigh between 22 - .On average, Golden Retrievers stop growing at around years of age. However, this can vary depending on factors such as genetics and gender. Male Golden Retrievers tend to take longer to fully mature than females, which means they may continue growing until they are years old. You might like these. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! By Tom Massey Mar 02, Adopting a golden retriever is one of the best decisions you can make. These loving dogs are constantly praised for their gentle and calm, yet playful nature, making them perfect dogs for all walks of life and types of families. So when you do finally bring your Golden Retriever puppy home, you want to do everything you can to give them a long and healthy life for years to come. This is a wide range, so keep in mind that the weight of your Retriever will vary depending on genetic factors and sex. For example, female Golden Retrievers will weigh closer to 55 pounds while Golden Retriever males are heavier and will weigh closer to 75 pounds. Females also typically reach their full size by their first birthday, while males may continue growing through their second year. You can usually tell the size males and females will be based on what their parents look like, which is why Snowy Pines encourages meeting the parents or browsing through their photos and biographies online. Then, calculate 1. What to Expect: This age is crucial for mother-puppy bonding since he will depend on his mother for food, cleaning, and socialization. Image Source Weeks months Golden Retriever Male Weight: Between 8 to 12 weeks, your male puppy will average between 10 to 22 pounds. Golden Retriever Female Weight: Although females will grow to be smaller than males, they are typically around the same weight at this age group. The puppies become very playful, curious, and discover their voices little by little. Introductory training like house training is essential. Socialization is also important, which is why Snowy Pines ensures that all puppies stay with their littermates until adoption. For female puppies, 6 months is a little over the halfway point to their full-size, and males are essentially smaller versions of their adult bodies. Remember, at this age, you can multiply by two to determine their adult weight! What to Expect: Socialization is still crucial at this age, and more intense training can also begin. The puppy should also be kept in happy and safe environments, as any exposure to something fearful at this age may impact him long-term. This is entirely normal: Think of your puppy as a teenager who is going through adolescence and waiting for the rest of his body to catch up. They may get territorial and challenge you and other pets for dominance. Most Golden Retrievers will be fully grown by 24 months old, although this varies. Golden Retriever Female Weight: In most cases, females are finished growing before 16 to 24 months. Whatever their nature is like at the to month mark is likely what it will be throughout their adult life. They are loyal, friendly, and calm, making them the perfect companion for small and large families alike. However, Goldens are susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases that are common in bigger breeds that are typically caused by overfeeding, stunted or accelerated growth, and genetic issues. One of the most common diseases that goldens experience is Osteochondritis dissecans OCD. OCD is a developmental disease that affects large-breed dogs because of the accelerated growth they experience. It is an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal cartilage development on the end of a bone in the joint. This can lead to joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia which commonly appears in the elbow, hip, and knee. Image Source The good news is that, although larger breeds like golden retrievers are prone to joint issues like this, you may be able to help prevent it through proper practice. OCD is a specific disease that is more common in dogs that receive too much energy and calcium in their diets. Other common factors are genetics, rapid growth, and hormonal factors. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, and all that extra weight can leave your puppy with skeletal abnormalities that put too much weight on joints. Another way to avoid accidentally stunted or accelerated growth is to ensure your golden retriever puppy is getting fed appropriately and receiving the right amount of calories. Image Source Months Between 2 and 4 months old, your puppy should eat 4 times per day with 2 ounces per meal. This will add up to 7 to 9 ounces per day, depending on how much he willingly eats. Keep him on puppy food through his first year before switching to young adult food. They must receive regular exercise every day. However, this depends on their age. As previously covered, the more your puppy grows, the more susceptible to common diseases like joint problems. Breeders with years of experience, like the team at Snowy Pines, work hard to keep pure bloodlines so that all of the parents and their litters are as healthy as they can be, which helps guarantee a lifetime full of happiness without any issue. Share on. Golden Retriever Male Puppy Growth Chart lb and kg Keep in mind that minor differences are not a cause for alarm: it is not compulsory for your pup to weigh the listed amount. However, if your puppy has a very low weight, you will know that you should check with your veterinarian. As a new owner of Golden Retriever Puppy, you will be surprised to know that handling of puppies can boost their growth. Not only does it promote proper weight gain, but it can also affect development in other areas. Introduction In Comparing the puppies who were handled with those who did not show that the puppies that were being held opened their eyes and ears and had their hair grow faster and they even had better motor development. You may want to know how your puppy compares to another Golden Retriever. Or are you worried that your dog growth is not on the right path? In studying Golden Retriever growth charts, it is clear that most pups gain weight between 5 and 10 percent per week. Keep in mind that a lot of factors can affect the growth rate of a puppy. One size doesn't fit all Not all puppies will follow the growth chart at an exact speed. There can be a lot of diverse reasons for this. The growth chart can alert you should there be significant differences. However, even good owners can have skinny dogs. The Golden Retriever growth charts can alert you to the common causes of slow growth. Occasionally it comes down to a change in the dog diet. Ensure your dog likes his food and that he eats frequently. Request your veterinarian to rule out worms or any other condition. In the meantime, rest assured knowing that most puppies do well when they are raised by a loving and caring owner who has a good relationship with a trusted veterinarian and spends a lot of pleasant time with the puppy. To ascertain if your puppy is large, small, or average-sized for his or her age, you will first find the correct chart based on the sex of your puppy. Scroll down until you locate your puppy's age on the left side of the table. Then compare your dog weight with each column subsequently to that age. To predict the future heights and weights of your dog growth for a period of time. If your dog weight is always in the average range, you can scroll down the average column to estimate how large your puppies maybe as an adult. The same applies to other columns too. Remember, this is just an estimate. Not all goldens will grow to the same size and at the same rate. The size of the parents is always a good indicator of whether your dog will be above or below average in size. However, while natural variation is nothing to worry about, stunted growth or accelerated growth is. If a golden retriever puppy is malnourished or suffering from an unidentified medical condition usually hookworm or ringworm , their natural growth can be compromised. This can lead to serious medical issues in later life, as it can leave them with weak bones, weak muscles, and a weak immune system, as well as a tendency to develop both skin and digestive issues. Growing too quickly, largely as a result of overfeeding, can also pose a major health risk. As well as leading to obesity, carrying too much weight at the development stage can leave your golden retriever with skeletal abnormalities, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis , a condition that affects the joints. With these tips, you will help fight off those genetic health disorders as well. Appropriate Diet Start off by speaking to your vet for guidance on foods to use for the different life stages. At the very least, you will need a nutritionally complete and balanced diet made for large breeds. Good food will help your pup gain the right amount of weight, look healthy, and have enough energy. Proper exercise will build their muscle and bone strength, prevent obesity, increase their agility, stop destructive behavior, and help them release pent-up energy. Vaccines will help to prevent infectious diseases such as hepatitis, parvovirus, rabies, and distemper, all of which could affect the growth and overall health of your puppy. This will be a plus for her overall health. It would also be great to have your vet do routine health checks on your puppy. This way, no issue will go unnoticed, and treatment can be administered early for better outcomes. A shiny coat and bright eyes are a plus. Alternatively, if you notice rapid weight gain or loss, unusual bumps and lumps on their skin, digestive issues, changes in behavior, and visual or hearing complications, take your dog to the vet right away. Compared to other breeds, Golden Retrievers, especially females, grow pretty quickly. Males could take up to 18 months to achieve the same milestone. However, both will still need an additional year to fill out the chest fully. Adult height, on the other hand, will be reached between 9 and 12 months. As always, females will get there a bit faster than males. You can get a rough idea of how big your golden retriever will grow by first studying the parents. Take note of the size that both of the parents and previous litters have had. Rarely will a puppy grow larger than its parents, so the measurements you gather will give you a better idea of how tall and heavy your golden retriever will get. Full-grown, healthy, male golden retrievers have a height of between 22 and 24 inches while the females are 20 to 22 inches tall. In terms of height and body structure, the Canadian golden retriever has no rival. Spaying and neutering specifically affect the development of bones and also ligament and tendon strength. In fact, some studies report higher incidences of cranial cruciate ligament tears and hip dysplasia among golden retrievers that went through this procedure. Therefore, consult your vet when deciding if and when to spay or neuter your dog. The weight of your golden retriever is a good indication of their healthy development. While male and female Goldens will have different weights and show goldens tend to be heavier than working goldens, overall, they should be hitting the weights listed in the growth and weight chart above. If your dog is not hitting these milestones, consult your vet about malnutrition, possibly caused by worms, and excessive golden retriever growth, which is often the result of overfeeding. If you feel like your pooch is missing any of them, again, it is time to consult your vet. In general, good nutrition and a loving home is a recipe for a happy and healthy golden retriever. If you want to know more about your golden retriever, you can do a DNA test, too. You can choose one of the tests below:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This was the first time we had a chance to chart puppies from birth until 8 weeks old. We tried to take as many pictures as possible so we could have a journal of our Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week. When raising guide and service dog puppies we usually bring home our puppies at around weeks old. On occasion we are allowed to see puppies before 8 weeks of age, but they need to stay with their mother and siblings during those important early weeks to get milk and antibodies from mama and learn how to interact properly with siblings, learning important behaviors like bite inhibition. During our days as a foster we raised two litters of puppies , but both were already weeks old by the time we got them home. We actually own the Puppy Culture DVD and Workbook which includes charts, lists, worksheets and other great information for raising your litter. Keep your eyes and ears open and absorb it all like a sponge! Birth To 1 Week Old Guess what? This was the first litter we ever whelped!? We got a lot of advise, but we were largely on our own. Large Puppy Dish — great for feeding the puppies when they moved to solid food. Whelping Mats — we ordered 2 of these mats and washed them several times a day. Whelping Box — We have a homemade whelping box built by my father-in-law, but if we continue raising litters I plan on purchasing an EZWhelp Whelping Box. Our homemade box lasted three litters. We ended up purchasing the Magnabox which was hellu expensive but if you plan on raising multiple litters we highly recommend it. We recently put together a whelping checklist with all the supplies we gathered together to help out with our second litter of Golden Retriever puppies. Check out our whelping supplies checklist here. However, none were overly huge and none were extra small. No runts and no beasts. It was my understanding that when the cord was chewed down to the base of the belly it was sometimes difficult to get it to stop bleeding. I took the hemostat and pinched the umbilical cord about 2 inches from the base of the pups belly then cut the cord rather than let Raven chew it off. I kept the hemostat on the cord for about 2 minutes to let it clout. The umbilical cord dries up quickly and then within a day or 2 it falls off. Raven was a good mama and took care of her poops. Puppy eyes and ears are closed at this stage and puppies army crawl around the whelping box looking for a teat to suckle. We did everything we could to make sure our pups stayed warm by adding a watt heat lamp to the whelping box and portable heating unit in the puppy room. As I mentioned Raven stayed in the whelping box most of week 1 and of course… the puppy piles! One thing I learned is if I had a puppy on my lap then do not let Raven lick those areas or be prepared for a little accident on your lap. While caring for Raven and her litter Raven was really blowing out her coat that first week, but as time went on it slowed down. I heard from other friends this is common and that Raven blew out her coat much less than other mama dogs. We got Probiotics for Raven before her first litter, but forgot to order them for her second litter. After an upset stomach for the first week or so we realized our mistake, got Probiotics, and no more upset tummy. Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. Have you ever had a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Tell us about your experiences with puppies in the comment section below. Are you about to raise a litter of puppies? Not raising a litter, but getting ready to bring home your first Golden Retriever puppy? Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.


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boxer lab puppy - Labrador Genetic Tests Over the last few years a range of genetic tests have sprung up. These tests were created to help Labrador breeders determine whether their breeding stock is likely to pass on one or more diseases to their puppies. These tests have been a fantastic development. Enabling us to make better choices about which Labradors to include in a breeding programme. Certificate of recent eye exam They may also have had a test to rule out skeletal dysplasia, a form of dwarfism that can occur in Labs. Simple inheritance Some diseases are passed on by a simple process. In one straightforward type of inheritance each dog inherits a pair of genes one from each parent that is related to the disease in question. And these genes can either be good do not cause the disease or bad can cause the disease if they are paired with another bad gene. An example of this type of disease is Progressive Retinal Atrophy which affects many of our dog breeds and cause blindness. The problem with this old test was that dogs may show signs of the disease until after they have produced puppies. The gene test enables us to prevent these dogs from being mated. One of the best things about some of these genetic tests is that not only do they help us exclude affected dogs from the gene pool, but that they also enable us to include Labradors that would have been excluded before these tests emerged. Excluding dogs from the gene pool With this simple type of inheritance only a dog with two bad genes can get sick, but a dog with one good and one bad gene can pass the bad gene on to its puppies. If a dog has two bad genes, we can exclude it from our breeding programme. We can also make preparations in advance to help care for the dog when symptoms of the disease arise. If in doubt, the dog would be excluded from breeding. We could not risk mating a carrier a dog with one bad gene and one good with another carrier, because some of the puppies would then be affected get sick. With the new gene tests, we can include carriers in a breeding programme provided that they are mated to dogs which are clear of the disease two good genes. None of the puppies from this mating will be affected, though some may be carriers. All will therefore need to be tested in turn before breeding Why would we breed from a carrier? The problem is, that in many pedigree breeds, the gene pools are quite small. After many years of closed registry breeding, and because certain breeding practices involve the over-use of certain individual dogs, the dogs within the breed are often quite closely bred and share many relations. Excluding more dogs from the breeding programme would be disastrous. We badly need more genetic diversity, and these simple tests give us that opportunity. More complex inheritance Of course some diseases are not so obliging. Some are polygenic. Many genes probably contribute to the disease, and we have not identified them. Sometimes the environment plays a part too. Hip dysplasia is an example of such a disease. And to only mate animals with the healthiest looking joints. Are Labrador genetic tests necessary? Yes, but only if you hope to have the dog mated. Many tests are expensive and some are quite involved. For the most part, there is no need to have your dog tested unless you intend to breed from him or her. If you do, it will help you to decide whether making puppies from a certain pairing is a good idea or not. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. After seeing images of such fuzzy bliss, many owners of labs think it would be fun to create little mini versions of their favorite pet. However, breeding is a lot of work, time and expense. People who attempt it should be well informed of the risks and rewards. If you are looking for a puppy, you need to understand the process in order to ask the right questions. You need to ask for the correct paperwork to ensure your puppy has the best chance of growing into a healthy adult. The 1 Motto For Responsible Breeding With so many dogs available for adoption in shelters, there are millions of pups that need homes. The only reason that two Labradors should be bred is to further the breed standard. The best way to do this is to show your dog and have an objective person compare them with other Labradors. A judge is an expert on what to look for in the breed, and can tell if your dog stands out as the ideal specimen. Even if your dog looks healthy, they may be a carrier for several very serious diseases found in Labs. With any purebred dog, you will find common genetic problems. Without proper understanding of breeding lineage and possible issues that could arise, you could produce puppies that add to the genetic diseases instead of fighting against these debilitating issues. Genetic traits, including those that cause disease, are found to be either dominant or recessive. Dominant Genes: If any diseases are found on dominant genes, they will only need one gene to show up in the puppies for the problem to develop. Recessive Genes: Diseases from recessive genes need both parents to carry the genes and pass them to their offspring before the issues develop. While this seems fairly straightforward, there are also polygenic disorders that result from the cumulative actions of multiple genetic combinations. They can also mimic both dominant and recessive genes depending on the make up. Finally, genetic diseases also spring from chromosomal abnormalities. Normally, dogs have 39 chromosomes. However, a change to the number or structure of these chromosomes can cause genetic disorders including down syndrome. Genetic Issues in Labradors Genetic defects can show up in any breed and impact any system in the body. However, there are certain common genetic issues that are seen more often in the Labrador breed. Here are the main genetic tests that should be performed to ensure your dog is fit to breed. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is common in many large dog breeds, and Labs are unfortunately not exempt. It is an abnormal formation of the ball and socket of the hip joint that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Excellent hip scores are a must for both parents. Elbow Dysplasia While most people are aware of hip dysplasia, they are often less aware of an equally important test. Elbow dysplasia is also commonly found in Labradors. Dogs used for breeding should first be cleared by a cardiologist veterinarian to ensure they are free from this issue. Centronuclear Myopathy CNM CNM, which is similar to muscular dystrophy in humans, results in weight loss, loss of tendon reflexes, awkward gait and exercise intolerance. Make sure to clear your dog of this genetic issue before breeding. Exercise Intolerance and Collapse EIC EIC is a condition where dogs become weak in their hindquarters and collapse after 5 to 20 minutes of high-intensity exercise. Narcolepsy NARC This disease runs in large breeds and can either cause the dogs to suddenly fall asleep or look like they are having a seizure. For example, a Chocolate Labrador would be a silver color if they had this diluted coat trait. Additional Testing Additionally to the above, there are further additional tests available to eliminate some less frequently seen diseases in Labradors. And of course, both parents should also be checked thoroughly by a veterinarian and given a clean bill of health. Responsible breeders want to ensure their dogs are fit for breeding and will invest in these tests before bringing new pups into the world. With the help of genetic testing, breeders have all the tools necessary to have the best shot at producing the healthiest puppies that replicate the breed standard. Video of a Responsible Breeder Discussing Genetic Testing Here is a video where Labrador breeder Donna Stanley talks about the genetic testing that she does for her dogs before breeding to produce the most healthy and happy pups possible. Commit to Being a Responsible Breeder As you can see, responsible breeding is not for the faint of heart! There are many other factors to consider, such as breed confirmation approval from judges in the show ring, the time and expense of breeding and raising the puppies, and the necessity to ensure that the next generation is an improvement on the last. After all, no one wants the heartbreak and expense of treating a sick puppy whose suffering could have been prevented if the proper preliminary testing had occurred with the parents. Buyers are also becoming more aware of these genetic tests, and savvy puppy purchasers will ask to see certifications and paperwork proving that the parents are ideal candidates for breeding. Breeding quality Labradors can be very rewarding and fun, but make sure you are truly prepared for the amount of research, money and time involved before taking on this awesome responsibility. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Any thoughts? If you are under the impression that she somehow must have a litter to improve her health, think again. You should have a good reason for wanting to breed from her; for example, to keep a puppy, carry on desirable characteristics, improve the breed generally or produce a puppy for a friend. Before considering the multitude of testing that should be carried out on a prospective mum, please consider her suitability for Labrador breeding. Is her conformation of an acceptable standard? Is she too fat or are her legs too short? Do you look at her through rose-tinted spectacles? Is she affected by any of the health issues that are inherited but for which there is no test available? I Is breeding from her likely to be detrimental to her welfare, especially her temperament? Also take into account your circumstances: do you have the time, the place, the financial ability and, most importantly, the stomach? A fail here stops you in your tracks without further expense or risk. Testing should be carried out annually, so one should be done in the 12 months preceding the mating. Hip and elbow dysplasia are multifactorial abnormalities of development of the hip and elbow respectively. Both have a strong inherited element, especially elbows, though diet, exercise and luck also play a part. Dogs must be one year old or over. Each hip is scored from 0 to 53, so that the best hips have a score of 0 0 and the very worst 53 .Beware of just being quoted a total score. The Elbow Dysplasia Scheme requires lateral X-rays of both elbows, taken at and degree angles. Your vet would normally do this at the same time as the hip X-rays. Each elbow is scored from 0 to 3. DNA testing will flag up whether your dog has any inherited conditions DNA testing So your eye test is clear and your hips and elbows are looking good, now it is time for some DNA testing. Some conditions are caused by mutation of only one gene, so their inheritability is predictable. For Labradors, these are: Centronuclear myopathy CNM , a defect of the formation of muscle fibres that results in weakness, fatigue, difficulty eating and collapse. Exercise-induced collapse EIC , a genetic disorder that generally affects otherwise fit dogs that deal with normal exercise without a problem. Strenuous activity, however, especially when associated with excitement, produces hind and sometimes foreleg collapse lasting 15 minutes. The problem lies with a protein that is involved in neurotransmission. Hereditary nasal parakeratosis HNPK , an abnormality that causes the nose to dry out, leading to crusting, irritation, secondary infection and, over time, loss of pigment. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA. The retina is the light-sensitive part of the posterior eye. Progressive rod-cell degeneration leading to PRA is one of a group of retinal disorders that start with loss of night vision and eventually result in blindness. Affected dogs show symptoms from three to nine years old, so potentially after they have been bred from. Retinal dysplasia is similar but causes abnormal development of the rod cells, so that blindness occurs early in life, at around two to three months. Skeletal dysplasia 2 SD2 , a form of dwarfism, known as mild disproportionate dwarfism, where the body is normal but the legs especially the front legs are too short. It seems its origin can be traced back to a single male labrador, born in .You should have a good reason for wanting to breed from your dog For further advice I would suggest a few hours perusing the Kennel Club website. Remember that when agreeing to these tests being carried out, you also sign to allow the results to be published on the Kennel Club website. You can, therefore, check out the health status of any prospective sire, discover the world of Estimated Breeding Values and generally further muddy the waters by poring over pedigrees. Do not breed from untested dogs. Oh, and speak to your vet before committing to breeding Labradors. By Tom Massey Oct 09, It may seem counterintuitive, but the more popular and in-demand a puppy breed is, the more likely it is that these dogs will be sold to families without the proper health clearances. Greater scrutiny makes it seem like breeders will conform to high standards and practices of breeding, but the reality is that popular breeds tend to attract pseudo-breeders looking to make a quick buck. While some health issues for Labs are genetic, others are developed through their lifetime. Even if your Labrador is predisposed for particular genetic conditions, there are ways that you, as a responsible owner, can make decisions that will positively affect the long-term health of your Labrador Retriever. In other words, what an individual breeder does or fails to do affects the health of all future generations and stock of dams and sires from other breeders. Health guarantees are not synonymous with health clearances, so make sure to ask for records of health certificates and pre-breeding examinations. Every breed of dog is more prone to a particular set of diseases and less likely to develop some others. Breeders who do genetic testing pre-breeding can ensure that their puppy is at a lower risk of developing these genetically-predisposed diseases. What Is a Health Clearance? While the results of pre-breeding examinations are strictly confidential, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals does post clear results from the OFA tests. Pre-breeding exams for dams and sires typically include the following tests: Dams: General physical examination, checking for vaginal abnormalities or strictures, as well as testing for brucellosis Sires: Checking the testicles, prostate, and penis for abnormalities, a general physical examination, and brucellosis testing Health clearance tests differ from breed to breed. Labrador Retrievers, for example, benefit from further genetic health screening tests. Dominant and recessive genes in Labrador Retrievers play a role in everything from behavior, coat color, and ear length, to more serious issues like PRA blindness which an Optigen test looks for. They could just be a carrier for the gene, which remains unexpressed, and it tells the breeder that some portion of their offspring may inherit this gene — either expressed or not. These first years of their life should not be bogged down with health issues. These documents will guarantee that the puppy is healthy and free of any serious infectious diseases. Families should take their puppy to the vet within hours of bringing their new bundle home and double-check these assurances and vaccinations with their family vet. These are the most common issues Labradors may face as they age. Any large breed of dogs can present with an abnormal formation of the hip joint and socket. Both the dam and sire must have excellent hip scores, and this is where OFA tests and certifications can tell you whether this is truly the case or not. It presents in a variety of ways, including lameness, abnormal gait, holding the elbow at odd angles, and a reticence to play and move. Your dog could become easily tired, experience stiffness when standing, and may experience inflammation of the joint. The tricuspid valve in a dog with TVD is malformed and, as a result, the heart cannot pump blood as effectively as in healthy dogs. A Labrador with TVD will experience fluid or swelling, stunted growth, and loud breathing. Tests include a urinalysis, a complete blood count, and a chemical blood profile. Dogs with CNM experience weight loss, gradual loss of tendon reflexes, an awkward gait, and eventually display exercise intolerance. Known as EIC, exercise intolerance is a gradual weakness and decline in Labradors because of related diseases. Labradors with NARC issues could fall asleep suddenly or experience sudden shaking that resembles a seizure. Like previous diseases, narcolepsy in Labradors is a recessive condition. Depending on the severity of the issue or the genetic dominance, these tests provide awareness and information for both the buyer and the breeder. That way, if any related health issue comes up in the future, owners who buy Labrador puppies from reliable breeders have a clear family history. Conclusion Health guarantees and health clearances should give you, as a potential owner, more than just peace of mind. Health clearances help to ensure that all future generations of puppies are healthy, happy, and a part of a diverse genetic pool. At Snowy Pines White Labs, we encourage our families to look for health clearances based on two guarantees: Firstly, that your chosen puppy is currently healthy and is without any infectious diseases. Secondly, breeders should also offer a clearance that guarantees against the presence of major congenital defects and other genetic issues for quite some time after bringing your puppy home. Snowy Pines White Labrador puppies are a special part of our family and we treat them as such. Dogs from our dams and sires have produced generations of healthy, happy, and high-quality puppies with a formidable family history. Learn more about the lineage of our Labrador puppies or about how one-on-one care and individual attention for our puppies makes all the difference. Health screening for Labrador diseases is important. It enables us to know whether mating two adult Labradors will result in puppies less likely to suffer from inherited diseases. Ones which could give them a life of discomfort, and their owner a whole lot of stress and heartache. Not to mention putting them seriously out of pocket in the process. Within the Labrador gene pool, lurks a range of unpleasant inherited diseases. Understanding these diseases and learning to detect and prevent them, is an important part of improving Labrador health on a national basis. Health screening for Labrador diseases involves testing dogs. To see whether they carry the genes which could cause them or their future offspring to suffer from an inherited disease. A good deal of research has gone into these Labrador diseases. As a result there are now a number of screening tests available to Labrador Breeders. In most cases these screening tests are applied to the parents that are about to be bred from, rather than the puppies that are being sold. The most commonly applied screening tests offered by the BVA are Labrador hip scores and eye tests. All responsible breeders now test their breeding stock for these two conditions. There are also a range of further tests now available to breeders. And many responsible breeders are testing for these additional Labrador diseases too. You could be forgiven for assuming that a pedigree Labrador must have undergone some form of health screening, or come from health tested parents. Sadly, there are still many Labrador puppies available for sale in the UK whose parents do not have even the most basic health clearances. Puppies bred from unscreened parents can at the time of writing, still be legitimately registered with the Kennel Club. A genuine pedigree does not offer you any health guarantees. It is up to you, the buyer, to determine whether or not the parents of your puppy have been screened. You also need to know that the results of the screening meet your requirements. You must check that this score was better than the average result. You should only view a litter of Labrador puppies if both the parents have good hip scores and clear eye tests. You should ask in advance for hip and eye test certificates of both parents to be available for your scrutiny when you visit the puppies. Or better still, for copies to be emailed to you in advance of your journey. If certificates are not forthcoming, you should walk away. Labrador Eye Problems Labradors are susceptible to a serious eye disease that causes blindness, sometimes at a young age. And pronounced free from disease at the time of the examination. It does NOT mean that the dog does not have the inherited condition, just that he or she displays no sign of it at this time. These basic eye tests should be carried out on an annual basis. Labrador Hip Scores Hip dysplasia is a crippling disease of the hip joints. After examination, each hip is allocated a score. The lower the score, the better the hips. A perfect hip has a score of zero. But this is fairly unusual. The score is expressed by two numbers — one for each hip. In this example, .What we are looking for in good breeding stock is a Labrador hip score that is better than average. This greatly reduces the chances of the puppies inheriting severe hip problems. However, it does not guarantee your puppy will have good hips. Hip scores vary from breed to breed, and from year to year. You can find the latest data on the BVA website. In Labradors, the current five year mean is .Most Labrador breeders should be aiming to breed from stock with a hip score that is lower than average and balanced. This should result in gradual improvement in the breed over time. A good hip score for a Labrador is probably anything under 6, made up of even numbers on each side. Labrador Elbow Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia in Labradors is similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joints of the dog. It occurs when abnormal growth causes a malformation or degeneration of the elbow. This can lead to lameness, loss of range of movement and severe pain. Elbow scores are rated differently to hip scores, being given a rating of 0 to 3. Where 0 is a perfect elbow and 3 is one that is very affected. The range of scores is small, which means that there is not a lot of scope to clearly separate the range of potential problems. Health Screening Labs There are some additional tests now available to Labrador breeders, and these have been developed by independent organisations. The Optigen test is becoming popular, and many breeders are now testing their stock. These tests are relatively recent developments and the more breeders that support them, the better our chances of eradicating these unpleasant diseases. If you have been told that your Labrador puppy is a carrier for a nasty disease you might be concerned. Imagine you have picked out your beautiful labrador puppy and horror of horrors your breeder responsibly tells you that this puppy could be a carrier for a serious inherited disease. What should you do? Is it safer to back out and look for another puppy? Or should you go ahead and purchase a puppy that carries a serious disease? In most circumstances where the mechanism of inheritance is clear cut, it is perfectly safe for you to purchase a puppy that is, or might be, a carrier for a known disease. Labrador Genetics Genes come in pairs, one from each parent, and each pair works together to determine one aspect of your dog, coat colour for example, ear length. And then of course the millions of less obvious features that go to make your dog what he is, and which in some cases, may make your dog prone to illness. The gene for black coat for example, is dominant. So even if it gets paired with a gene for a chocolate coat, the labrador will still be black. Check out this link for more about labrador coat colour inheritance. Thus the chocolate Labrador always has two chocolate genes. Obviously this is an oversimplification of genetics! But it is helpful to understand. Because there are many diseases that we now test for in pedigree dogs, and some of these diseases are autosomal recessive in nature. If the faulty gene is paired with a normal gene, it will be switched off and lie hidden there inside the dog. Without causing any problems. There are genetic tests now which can determine whether a dog is clear, normal or a carrier, for a number of diseases. Only if both genes are faulty will the puppy develop the disease. The pup gets one gene from each of his parents to make up the pair of genes. He will never get the disease nor can he ever pass it on to his puppies. So if the puppy gets one faulty gene from his Mum and one normal gene from his Dad or vice versa he will still be healthy. If he is mated he will pass a faulty gene on to about half of his puppies. Provided that each of these Labrador puppies inherits a normal gene from its other parent, they too will be healthy. This is how diseases can sometimes skip generation after generation. If your breeder has had a litter of puppies blood tested for a particular disease then you may be informed that your puppy is a carrier. With autosommal recessive conditions, if the puppy gets two faulty genes we know that he will definitely develop the disease at some point because there is no normal gene to switch it off. Obviously we all want to avoid affected puppies being born, and most of us would want to avoid purchasing an affected puppy. Remember that the clear dog has no faulty gene and gives a healthy normal gene to every single pup so none of the pups can ever get sick from this disease even when the other parent is a carrier. Worse still if one parent is a carrier and one is affected, half the puppies will be affected. This is why buying from health screened stock is so important. The smaller the gene pool, the greater the chance of more diseases appearing. It is important that we do not eliminate perfectly healthy dogs from this gene pool for no good reason. With the development of so many available tests, breeding from carriers is not only possible, it is actually a good thing. Because it helps to keep that large and healthy gene pool. One of the beauties of widespread testing is that it allows us to breed from carriers because we can ensure that they are always mated to a clear dog. The more people that test, the more clear dogs that will be available, and the bigger our gene pool will be. I hope I have shown that there is nothing wrong at all in a breeder offering for sale puppies that may be carriers for a disease inherited in this straightforward way. To find out if this is a case of straightforward inheritance of the sort described here you should get the details from your breeder and check with your vet. It is important that the disease in question is not one that can affect carriers. However, in most cases is absolutely no need to avoid a puppy who is genetically a carrier unless perhaps you are intending to found your own breeding line. Even then you should not discount a carrier if all else is right. You will obviously need to be careful when choosing a mate, but as more and more dogs are health tested, this is becoming easier. To sum up: carriers of an autosomal recessive disease of the type described hear do not get sick. At least not from the disease that they are carrying! Carrier puppies are not necessarily substandard, and the breeder is perfectly within their rights to sell a puppy knowing that it is, or might be, a carrier of this type. She is also doing the responsible thing by providing her puppy buyers with this information. Genetic testing is not cheap. But these statements are misguided, as two healthy dogs can be carriers for an inherited disease and therefore produce puppies who are born to suffer. You would never know without the health tests. As long as there is no obligation on breeders to test their stock, there will be breeders who do not bother. It is therefore up to the public to put pressure on breeders to carry out these tests by refusing to purchase puppies from untested parents. You can help encourage breeders to carry out these tests by enquiring about them whenever you contact those offering puppies for sale, and by choosing puppies whose parents have been tested. More Help and Information. By Lisa Peterson The Labrador Retriever is a large, double-coated breed with a weather-resistant coat that comes in three colors — black, yellow, and chocolate, according to the AKC breed standard. From English fishing and hunting stock, this active, hearty breed was developed in Canada. Easily trained and a great swimmer, this breed excels in a variety of jobs from search-and-rescue and guide dogs to hunting dogs and family companions. Genetic health testing is an integral part of a sound dog breeding program. When using genetic health testing it is important for breeders to educate themselves about concepts such as modes of inheritance, penetrance, prevalence, and phenotype for a specific variant mutation in your breed in order to apply test results. Breeders also need to know which variants are causing health concerns in their breed, and which health conditions currently have no genetic test available. This handy search function by breed or by health condition can show breeders which DNA tests Embark provides. The health condition percentages based on clear, carrier, and at-risk status presented on common, rare, and very rare genetic risk factors are based on a subset of dogs within the Embark database and do not necessarily represent all dogs of this breed. While we are not able to provide specific population numbers at this time, we believe the data provided here to be sufficient to inform on current trends within the North American population of Labrador Retrievers. In the neuron, dynamin trucks neurotransmitter-filled vesicles from the cell body, where they are generated, to the dendrites. The mode of inheritance is recessive. Citations: Patterson et al Progressive Retinal Atrophy, prcd PRA-prcd is a retinal disease that causes progressive, non-painful vision loss. The retina contains cells, called photoreceptors, that collect information about light and send signals to the brain. There are two types of photoreceptors: rods, for night vision and movement, and cones, for day vision and color. This type of PRA leads to early loss of rod cells, leading to night blindness before day blindness. The gene is SUV39H2 and affects the skin and connective tissues. The gene is TTC8 Exon 8 and the mode of inheritance is recessive. The gene is COL11A2 and the mode of inheritance is recessive. The cornea is the surface of the eye. The gene is CHST6 and the mode of inheritance is recessive. In most dogs, uric acid is converted to allantoin, an inert substance that is then excreted in the urine. Dogs with HUU have defects in the pathway that converts uric acid to allantoin. As such, uric acid builds up, crystallizes and forms urate stones in the kidney and bladder. Uric acid is an intermediate of purine metabolism. While hyperuricemia in other species including humans can lead to painful conditions such as gout, dogs do not develop systemic signs of hyperuricemia. The gene is SLC2A9. This mutation was first described in the Dalmatian. This mutation is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner; that is, a dog requires two copies of the mutation to show signs of the disease. Affected dogs will show no clinical signs of disease in the early stages. As stones form, dogs will often urinate more frequently, urinate in inappropriate places, and possibly have blood in their urine. If a urinary obstruction forms, they are unable to urinate despite frequent straining. This is a medical emergency. Most dogs are adults before they show any signs of urinary issues years on average. Urate stones are invisible on X-rays and must be diagnosed by a veterinarian via ultrasound or urine sediment analysis. If left undiagnosed, bladder stones can lead to urinary obstruction, which can be life-threatening. If caught early, it is responsive to dietary management. Surgical intervention is often required when stones or an obstruction forms. Loss of PTPLA function is thought to cause muscle fiber damage and death, leading to replacement of the muscle mass with scar tissue. This type of PRA leads to early loss of cone cells, causing day blindness before night blindness. Affected dogs also exhibit episodes of cataplexy, a sudden complete loss of muscle tone in response to strong positive emotions. Hypocretin is a neurotransmitter involved in the regulation of appetite, arousal, and wakefulness. Cone cells not only register color, they allow the dog to adjust their eyes to bright light. Dogs with this disease constantly feel like us when we step out of a movie theater. Night vision remains completely unaffected. The gene is COL6A3 and the mode of inheritance is recessive. Astrocytes, named for their characteristic star-like shape, are supportive cells of the central nervous system. Astrocytes surround neurons, the functional unit of the central nervous system, nourishing, protecting, and repairing them from stress or injury, as well as enhancing their function. In Alexander disease, astrocyte function is compromised. Loss of myotubularin causes muscle fiber damage and death, leading to replacement of the muscle mass with scar tissue. Dogs affected with PKD have red blood cells that have impaired ability to produce energy, leading to breakdown of important cell processes that contribute to form and function. Citations: Gultekin et al b With 18 known conditions in Labrador Retrievers, this is evidence that genetic disorders are of concern within the breed and other conditions are likely to be identified in the future. By DNA testing your Labrador Retriever with Embark you can help accelerate more novel discoveries to help your breed and all dogs. Canine Health and Breed Resources. Responsible breeders test their dogs for diseases that are known to be hereditary prior to arranging a mating. Each breed is prone to a certain number of hereditary illnesses — but by ensuring only healthy, certified animals are bred, breeders can reduce or eliminate hereditary problems, and greatly increase the odds that their puppies live long happy lives. Interested puppy buyers should ensure that the breeders they select are performing all necessary health tests suitable for their breed — this gives you the best possible chance for a healthy pup. This page contains information on testing and clearances that Labradors should have done prior to being bred. Health Tests for Labrador Retrievers According to the Canine Health Information Center, all Labrador Retrievers being used in a breeding program should have their hips and elbows tested for dysplasia and their eyes checked against genetic defect by a canine opthamologist. However, there are other conditions that are found in Labs that should also be considered even though they may occur less frequently. Two Types of Tests There are two basic types of health testing available to Labrador breeders. Both are important and the differences are explained below. These are: Phenotypic Tests Genetic Testing In order to understand genetic testing, it is helpful to have a little bit of a background in how genes are inherited. Here is a very brief explanation that you can use to help you more readily absorb the information about testing that will follow. A gene is a sequence on a chromosome that codes for a specific trait, in whole or in part. For each gene, a dog gets one allele from each parent. For each trait, there may be several possible alleles, and because the dog gets one from each parent, he is potentially carrying two types of genetic material for each trait. Recessive alleles are only expressed if both are matching at that specific gene. In Labradors, there are several diseases that have been identified as the result of a specific mutation to a certain gene. So, a dog who has one normal copy and one mutated copy of the gene will appear normal, but could pass the mutated allele to offspring. If a puppy receives a mutated allele from BOTH parents, they will be affected and will show symptoms of the disease. Genetic testing is important because for these conditions where a genetic mutation has been identified, it is possible to run a DNA test to determine if the dog is clear, carrier or affected. This allows breeders to plan matings so that NO puppies affected for that condition are born. A breeder doing proper testing can definitely guarantee that their puppies will not be affected by those diseases. It is NOT enough to see that both parents appear healthy because they could potentially each have a mutated allele that could be passed on to the puppies- testing is the only way to know for sure. The diseases in bold print are the most likely of those listed in field type Labs. Some of the other conditions are much more common in show-type labs and some are equally infrequent in both types of labs. However infrequent, the fact that we can definitely and completely prevent them makes the testing worthwhile. Phenotypic testing checks for outward signs of the disease. Breeders also use testing information to avoid breeding healthy dogs who have many relatives who show symptoms of the disease. It has been proven that breeding dogs who are free of clinical OR subclinical signs of the following diseases helps reduce the odds of disease in the puppies, but cannot eliminate the chance completely. For all of these conditions, BOTH parents need to be tested free of disease- Hip Dysplasia — Hips are x-rayed and films sent to specialists for evaluation and grading. The most common certifying body is the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA Hips are graded as either dysplastic affected by hip dysplasia — not suitable for breeding , fair, good, or excellent. Because these films look at the actual bones of the dog, it is important for the dog to be done growing to get an accurate evaluation. The OFA will examine x-rays on a preliminary basis in younger dogs but only offers an official grade to dogs over 2 years of age. Another certifying body is PennHip. This organization uses a combination of x-rays and measurements to determine hip quality and looseness. The measurements determine if the hip is better or worse than other dogs of the same breed and it is recommended to breed only dogs who are rated as better than average. Elbow Dysplasia — these are also x-rayed and films are sent to the OFA. Elbows are graded as various grades of dysplasia or normal which means no dysplasia. In Labs, only dogs with normal- rated elbows are recommended for breeding. Eye diseases — Dogs who are intended for breeding should have their eyes examined annually, or at minimum, within 12 months prior to breeding. Eyes are examined by a canine opthamologist and checked for cataracts, lens and retina irregularities, and any other sign of disease. Several types of eye diseases are believed to be heritable in Labs but few have genetic tests available so having eyes examined helps identify issues as soon as they arise to eliminate affected dogs from breeding. Results from the exams are sent to OFA for recording and dogs who pass the test no disease found are issued a certificate good for one year. Heart Diseases— Testing for heart disease involves a color flow ultrasound performed by a skilled cardiologist. This echocardiogram looks for congenital and adult-onset diseases in the formation of the heart structure and in the blood flow velocity and volume, which may be a concern for the dog as an individual, and as a breeding candidate. A dog who is clear of all observable defects is issued a certificate from the OFA. Dogs without a normal rating should not be used for breeding. There are all kinds of other conditions that can be examined phenotypically for signs of potential disease, such as shoulders, knees, and thyroid. We are proud of the fact that our dogs have been objectively evaluated in this way. Another way to check testing results is to search online. So, you are able to verify test results there. The key point is this: As a puppy buyer, you have the right AND obligation to check test results either by using an online option or seeing copies of the actual health test results. You deserve a healthy puppy so take the time to make sure you are sourcing your pup from a knowlegable breeder who will do everything they can to produce only healthy puppies. In this case, because neither parent had any mutant alleles to pass along, it is safe to say that we know that their offspring are also clear of mutant alleles. For example, you should expect that each and every Labrador used in a breeding program has had their hips tested for hip dysplasia. Hips, elbows, and eye exams must be done on each dog because they are not DNA tests, so there is always the possibility that a particular dog could be affected even if both parents are clear. We know this can be a confusing topic but we urge and BEG you not to give up. Study this page and email me if you have questions. Share this:.