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Springador Highlights Springadors are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Labrador Retriever and Springer Spaniel parents. The main colors that the coat of the Springador comes in are black, brown, and gold. In general, the Springador does not shed much. The Springador is an energetic and active dog who will require around an hour of exercise every day. The Springador can work well with kids, although this is a mixed breed that definitely does better with older adults. If you have children and are considering adding a Springador to your family, make sure that both parties are socialized properly right from the start. In general, Springadors are fine around other household pets, though they can view smaller animals as prey. Set boundaries and supervise play. The Springador is definitely not a dog who does well being left alone all day. In fact, if the mixed breed does not receive enough attention and human contact, negative personality traits and behaviors might arise. The Labrador Retriever hails from Canada, where they were originally employed by fishermen to help bring back fish that might have escaped. These days, the Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dogs in the United States. When it comes to the Springer Spaniel, this is a breed that comes from Spain and was introduced to other European countries by the Romans. Springer Spaniels have a history of being used as a game dog charged with retrieving tasks. Even though the Springador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you! Springador Size The Springador is a large dog. As is always the case with newer dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 50 to 90 pounds and range in height from 18 to 24 inches. Female Springadors are sometimes smaller than their male counterparts. This mixed breed is super friendly and will happily form loving bonds with the humans in their life. This is a dog who craves companionship and will want to become a focal part of your day-to-day life. The downside to this is that the Springador is definitely not a dog who does well being left alone all day. If you have an active family that also likes to spend a lot of time outside, the Springador will be a great fit for your lifestyle. Consider agility training, especially if you have a safe outdoors space to offer to the dog. Springador Health Springadors are generally considered to be healthy dogs, although the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Springer Spaniel and Labrador Retriever face. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Consider adding agility training and fetch-and-retrieve tasks to the daily outdoor routine. The Springador is definitely a mixed breed that loves a visit to the dog park—being around other canines helps add variety to their day. Wash them weekly with a damp cloth and look out for any signs of infection or a build up of dirt. Springador Feeding An ideal Springador diet should be formulated for a large dog with high energy. Springador Coat Color And Grooming The main colors that the coat of the Springador comes in are black, brown, and gold. When it comes to climate, the Springador is an adaptable dog who can live happily in most climates. But remember to dress the mixed breed up in a dog coat if it gets very cold outside, and always make sure adequate shade and fresh water is provided when the temperature spikes. Springador Children And Other Pets The Springador can work well with kids, although this is a mixed breed that definitely does better with older adults. So ensure that the boundaries between the dog and any existing household pets are laid down properly, and supervise interactions. Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this mixed breed. Make sure to reward your Springador for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regimen when you bring them home to your family. Springador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Springadors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Springer Spaniel or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. This is a higher price as far as puppies are concerned, but the Spanador is becoming increasingly popular, and these prices will probably continue to rise. They Love Water Spanadors love everything and anything about water. It is not uncommon to see your Spanador attempt to swim in their water bowl. If you happen to have a pool or a beach that your Spanador can swim in, they will be thrilled. In addition to enjoying swimming, they will also burn off some of that endless energy. These dogs want to be with you at all times. Many Spanador owners have learned to look down before taking a step. Chances are your Spanador will be sitting at your feet. Although this dog is a bit smaller than a purebred Labrador, it can still reach up to 50 pounds. The Spanador will fully believe they are a lap dog regardless of their size. They Serve as Watchdogs Although the Spanador is not a very large dog, you will find that they are protective. If you want a dog that will keep a close eye on your children and your property, the Spanador is an excellent choice. When it comes to both character and intelligence, these dogs will sit at the top of any chart. The Spanador is a dog that has a lot of energy. If you are a person that wants a docile animal to sit at your feet all day, the Spanador may not be the best choice. Although they will eventually settle and love a great cuddle, they need their play first. The great thing about the Spanador is that even with the amount of energy they have, they can be taught how to control that energy and behave in a way that makes them excellent indoor pets. They are people pleasers and want you to be happy. This is a loyal dog that thinks of itself as another member of the family. The Spanador is a brilliant dog. Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Labrador are smart animals. None of that intelligence was lost when this breed was developed. Keep reading to find out more about how their intelligence affects training and family life. Are These Dogs Good for Families? A family is a perfect setup for a Spanador. These dogs are going to be continually seeking love and attention, and a family will fill that need for them. In addition to the need for love, the Spanador will want people to play. If you have kids that can learn to throw a ball or teach the dog some extra tricks, the Spanador will be in its glory. Of course, all dogs have their personalities, and you will always need to use caution with children around animals. However, the Spanador is a happy dog. You will see as they walk, run, and play that their head is up, and they are looking for smiles, friendly hellos, and a belly rub from anyone who may offer. Since the Spanador is so loyal to the family, they will likely try and keep an eye on their companions as well. If a stranger comes to the door, they are very likely to bark and alert the family members to a potential problem. Remember when your dog barks it is not to be loud and annoying, they want to help you. This is not an aggressive breed, they will not try and start a problem. You should, however, always keep your Spanador on a leash. Depending on the personality of the other dog, it could be a problem for your Spanador. Spanadors love to play, and although they are medium-size dogs, you may want to watch them around tiny dogs. They may not understand that the smaller size dog cannot play and rough house in the same way. Luckily the Spanador is not a high-maintenance dog. However, this dog will shed, and it will need your attention. We will give you all the information you should consider before purchasing your Spanador puppy. They love food so much that you will have to keep an eye on your Spanador and the amount of food they consume. If you put food out in a bowl, they will consume it at a very fast speed. This fast eating can lead to gastrointestinal issues. If your dog tends to eat quickly like this, you can give your Spanador a little bit at a time or get a bowl that helps release the food more slowly. You will have to watch that there are not too many people in the family giving your Spanador treats. With how much these dogs love the food, they may beg or look for ways to get food from you. Since the Spanador is so sweet and loving, it is hard not to give in to those puppy dog eyes. We reviewed the best low-calorie dog treats — see our top picks here! Your dog is going to need a lot of exercise. If you live in an apartment with no outside space for a dog to run, the Spanador may not thrive. Having a yard for the Spanador to run and play is very important. You will also need to take your dog on walks so that they get the correct amount of exercise every day. If you like to walk or run with your dog, the Spanador is quite capable of keeping up with you. Since they are so easy to train see next heading , you will easily be able to leash-train them. If both your kids and your dog need exercise, that would be even better. Letting your Spanador run in the yard and play with the kids is a great way to help them manage their high levels of energy. If you can help them burn off some of this steam early in the day, by the time evening comes around, they will be ready to snuggle and enjoy your company. Lastly, it is important to get your Spanador some swim time if you can. Spanadors love to swim. They enjoy spending time in the water with the ones they love, so if you can find a way to get your Spanador to the beach, the pool, or the lake—go for it! Although dog training will take time and patience, regardless of the breed, you will have very little trouble with the Spanador. These dogs want to make you happy. If sitting seems to make you happy, or when they come that makes you happy, your Spanador will want to repeat that behavior. Since they are dogs that want to please, you should use positive reinforcement for them. This is a dog that picks up on human behaviors and feelings. Even by changing the pitch of your voice, your dog will know that you are pleased with their response. With a high level of intelligence and the desire to ensure that you are their best friend, the Spanador is an enjoyable dog to train. You can start training a Spanador from the time they are a young puppy. Starting at this age and exposing them to other animals for socialization will make your life easier as they age. Keep in mind that the Spanador will have lots of energy for many years. You will not be able to control the energy your dog has. You will have to help them exercise and then help them learn to behave even with high energy levels. The Spanador is going to shed, and you will be vacuuming a lot. The amount your dog sheds will change depending on the season, but there will always be a good amount. One way to avoid having the house destroyed by hair is to brush your dog at least weekly. The brushing will remove much of the loose hair and help save your carpets just a little bit. Since this is a mixed breed between two dogs that have varying hair lengths, the amount of hair your Spanador has can vary. Sometimes a Spanador will have longer hair around the ears just like a Cocker Spaniel. If that is the case, you can trim that hair lightly just to keep things neat. If your dog does have long hair spots, make sure that they are brushed often to avoid knots. Spanadors do not need frequent baths. Once a month or every other month is more than fine. Indeed, if they get into a mess, they should be bathed more often. Make sure that you use a dog shampoo. Using any shampoo for the dog could result in their skin drying out. You will mostly need to watch out for the weight gain. As we mentioned earlier, this breed of dog loves its food. Minor Conditions. Breed Profiles By Kate Brunotts 8 min read May 25, 1 Comment K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Looking for a loyal, loving canine companion? Hopefully, this will help you determine whether or not a springador would be a good fit for your lifestyle. The Springador Breed Profile: Key Takeaways Springadors are mixed-breed dogs made by crossing a springer spaniel with a Labrador retriever. Like most other mixed-breed pups, springadors frequently exhibit a combination of traits inherited from each parent breed. It is difficult to predict how any mixed-breed pup will turn out. However, there are a few traits and characteristics that seem to describe most springadors, such as a high energy level and super-friendly nature. There are also a few other breeds and breed combinations that springador fans may want to consider. This includes purebred pups like flat-coated retrievers and lovable mixes like boradors. What Is A Springador? Springadors sometimes called Labradingers are mixed breed pups, created by crossing a springer spaniel and Labrador retriever. Lizzy the Springador, Honey and Poppy the Bassets. Labradors are generally known for being energetic, smart, and loving dogs who do well with families or single owners, as long as their needs are met. Labradors make great pets, but they are also known for being adept therapy and hunting dogs due to their trainability, intelligence, work ethic, and good-natured personality. As a matter of fact, Labs were originally bird hunting dogs bred to hunt and retrieve waterfowl. These medium-sized dogs usually weigh somewhere between 50 and 80 pounds and come in golden, chocolate, or black coat variants. Labs are known for being excellent canine companions, but they need a good amount of daily exercise and playtime to stay mentally and physically fit. This breed is generally characterized as happy-go-lucky and gentle, making them pretty easy to train. These dogs have a beautiful double coat that comes in a variety of colors, usually white accompanied by black or liver a deep brown color markings. Springer spaniels usually weigh anywhere from 40 to 60 pounds. The springer spaniel is athletic and requires lots of regular exercise to keep his tail wagging. This friendly breed is happy to hang out at home with his owners, as long as he gets plenty of chances to go outside and romp around. Skylar the 8 month Springador That being said, here are some general guidelines of what to expect from a springador so that you can determine whether or not the breed is a good fit for your home. Size and Shape: Springadors are medium to large dogs weighing anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds. Springadors typically have a lab-like build. Temperament: Most springadors are devoted family companions who love being around their owners and exploring new places. This playful breed is pretty lively and needs lots of time outdoors exercising to feel their best. Springadors are friendly, loving, and loyal to their family members and want nothing more than to play fetch and spend time with loved ones. Coat and Colors: The springador tends to take on the solid black, gold, or brown coat like his Labrador parent. Occasionally, some of the white markings from the Springer Spaniel parent may come through. The most common place to see white on these dogs is the chest. Since both parent breeds have a double-coat the springador has one too. The springador is well-suited for hot weather as well as cooler climates with his medium-length coat. Intelligence: Luckily, the springador is naturally intelligent so these pups are pretty easy to train, and they make great working dogs. These people-pleasing pooches are happy to learn just about any trick or skill if it means winning you over. Your springador will also appreciate having a variety of puzzle toys on hand to keep him mentally stimulated throughout the day. Training Challenges: While springadors are generally very teachable, they face their own set of training challenges just like any other dog. The high-strung springador may, for example, be prone to developing separation anxiety. The mixed-breed has a medium-length coat that sheds year-round. The springador also has large, floppy ears that should be cleaned regularly especially after swimming to prevent ear infections. Springador dogs are generally healthy and live anywhere from 10 to 14 years. That being said, they are more susceptible to the ailments faced by Labrador retrievers and springer spaniels, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems. Springadors are family-friendly pups who are usually great with kids. Here is a quick check to make sure the springador is the right dog for your home. You love exercising or getting out and about. Springadors are naturally lively and need regular exercise to feel their best. You have a lively household. Springadors thrive in homes where someone is always around to interact with. This mixed breed likes spending time around his owners as much as possible. Springadors have an innate thirst for knowledge and do well in homes where they have the opportunity to learn lots of tricks. In addition, focused training is critical if you have small animals at home as the springador has a high prey drive. These beautiful mutts are eternally devoted to their families and will make sure you know it. Time to Meet the Parents! Similar Breeds and Mutts to Consider Not sure if the springador is the dog of your dreams? Here are some other similar breeds and mixed breeds to consider. Spanador: Spanadors are crosses between Labradors and the cocker spaniel, a relative of the springer spaniel. These canine cuties are loving and intelligent companions. Borador: The borer-collie-Lab-Mix is exceptionally smart, sweet, and always ready for a long run or hike. Goldador: This cross between a Labrador and golden retriever gives you a caring canine companion that will always brighten your day. Curly-Coated Retriever: This pure-bred pooch is just as sweet and lively as a springador, but a little more on the independent side. These tireless dogs love intense, regular exercise. Flat-Coated Retriever: These playful pooches retain a puppy-like spirit well throughout their lives. Flat-coated retrievers are happy go lucky dogs that are sure to keep you entertained. Spangold Retriever: The spangold retriever is the adorable cross between a springer spaniel and golden retriever. These good-natured dogs are great family companions. Springerdoodle: This cross between a springer spaniel and poodle is highly intelligent and an active companion. These sporty dogs are super versatile and love being around family members and other dogs. These sweet, playful pups are bound to make life a whole lot of fun! Do you have one of these cute canines at home? Does he show more of his Labrador or springer spaniel side? Like it? Share it! Also called Labradingers or Labradinger Retrievers, Springador pups often take on the colors of a Labrador — yellow, black, and chocolate — and become fairly large. They may also develop the curly hair and white markings that typify Springer Spaniels, though! Sporting Dog Roots Your Springador will definitely live up to their roots as sporting type dogs, being a workhorse Lab combined with a hard headed Springer Spaniel. But purebred dogs are your best bet if you are looking for a working dog to do a specific job. Labs were originally bred to retrieve fish from hooks or traps for their owners. Over the generations they became known for being the best dog to have with you if you were doing any kind of shooting. They are skilled at running, swimming, fighting, and following their sense of smell. Springer Spaniels are an old breed; the Romans are said to be responsible for their original European distribution. Springers are sporting dogs, bred to retrieve and flush out game. They are known for being elegant, active, and friendly — and for causing lots of trouble! Their determination to reach their prey can override their interest in listening to your commands. Sporting dog breeds have been combined for generations by game keepers and farmers. Dog handlers keen to have a dog that can do it all. The classic Lab temperament is sweet, friendly, active, easy to train, and easy to socialize, and tends to shine through in Sprinador mixes. Appearances, Size and Weight Springador dogs have even leg to back ratios, long muzzles and wide happy expressions. Their tails are long and broad, and their ears hang low around their faces. Springer puppies can weigh from lbs. They range from about .Springer spaniels are slightly smaller than Labs, at inches. They weigh around lbs. A Springador full grown, being a mix, can take on the smaller size of Springer Spaniels, or grow to be as big as Labs. You just never know with cross breed dogs! They may have white markings. They tend to have medium-to-long coats that are somewhat dense. This makes their fur more waterproof. The hair can range from straight to wiry and curly. They are high-shed dogs in-season, so if you are allergic these are not the dogs for you! Springador dogs should also be groomed frequently. They will need the long hairs on their legs and ears clipping to keep them free of undergrowth! The Springador Temperament Labradors are friendly and outgoing, and mix well with others. They do bark to sound the alert, but are even tempered on the whole. English Springer Spaniels are friendly and playful. They are also known for being hardworking, steady, and obedient to a point. Springador dogs are incredibly driven when it comes to prey, due to their working roots. Novice handlers find it hard to control them outdoors or under distracting conditions. You should avoid casual walks off leash unless you have taught them to come when called in every scenario. Recall is everything and takes a long time to proof with a dog this driven. Your Springador will have lots of energy, be prone to noise and sadly nervous aggression too in some working lines. Stamina is a key part of their personality. Springador Training All dogs can benefit from basic obedience training and socialization at an early age. They are easy to train, and react well to positive reinforcement. Springer Spaniels especially are very energetic and have a high prey drive, which means they should get recall training from a young age. Springadors can be headstrong! These dogs, because of their Labrador blood, will pull on the leash if possible, so training them not to do that will help save your arm! Also, Labradors stay puppy-like for a long time. This is another good reason to train your Springadors. You may wish to consider advanced training — agility, or therapy, for your Springador. They like to work, and their high activity levels make this good enrichment for them. Springador Exercise A small apartment may not be the best place for your Springador. With so much energy to spare, they really need space to roam. Their minds must also be exercised, so we do recommend agility training or retriever training to keep them stimulated. Springer Spaniels especially are not happy when left alone much, so you should take that into account as well. Springador Parent Health Tests Because Labs and Springer Spaniels are prone to similar inherited diseases, you might not see the health advantages as much in the Labrador x Springer cross as with others. The pups of any mixed breed dog will have similar concerns to their parents, so keep that in mind as you shop for Springadors. But it is impossible to know exactly how those health problems will manifest in a cross-bred puppy. It is important, always, to have a health screening for your dog, and to know its family health history whenever possible. Make sure that both parents have good hip scores, clear eye tests and are PRA clear. The Lab parent should also have good elbow scores. However, in general, both dogs are robust and healthy breeds. Also, purebred dogs may not live as long as mixed breeds. But the longevity of your English Springer Spaniel Lab mix depends on a number of factors, including diet, environment, and quality of life. It also depends on genetics, so when you choose your Springador, consider the health of both parents and their families. Your dog may live anywhere from years. By keeping your Springadors healthy and happy, you can ensure they live as long as possible! As with all interactions with breeders, do your research. If you can, visit the home where your potential pup is growing up. That way, you can meet the parents, see the conditions where she was raised, and view for yourself how the breeder interacts with the dogs. Remember to ask the breeder for health certification for the dogs. A breeder with integrity will have no problems with this. Always meet the mother when buying a puppy. Springador Puppies Remember that if you want to buy cross-bred puppies, they are at risk for the same health problems as their parents of either breed. You could get more Lab, or you could get more Springer Spaniel qualities. This goes for their health issues, their temperament, and their physiology. Springador Rescue If you are willing and able to rescue a Springador, rescues do exist. You may also be able to fix a mix inside a shelter, too. You will also have less choice when it comes to age, gender, and other aspects of your new dog. Training or re-training may be required. If you want to rescue a Springador, you may have to be patient to find the right animal for you and your family. The dog you want might not be waiting in a shelter yet. The Cocker Lab Mix Lab Cocker mix This last part of the article will be split into five parts; all five pieces will be essential for a healthy, well-balanced Cocker Spaniel Lab. These agile hunters could quickly take off chasing an animal and may get lost. So always make sure to have your dog on a leash unless, of course, you are hunting and or are in an enclosed area. With adequate exercise given every day, the Cocker Spaniel Labrador will be an excellent family pet. If you are a couch potato, this breed is definitely not for you, so please get a dog like the Charles Spaniel. Charles Spaniel is a couch potato they are not one for running around the yard or going out on long walks. King Charles Spaniel mostly loves sleeping, whether that is on the bed or the couch. Socialization of the Spanador Socialization is a must for any dog, and whether he is big or small, it is essentially teaching them good dog manners. You can also take your puppy to puppy classes; this knocks out two birds with one stone. You are getting your puppy to meet with other puppies, and at the same time, you are getting expert training and advice. Avoid taking your puppy to the dog park. The dogs in the dog park can be rude and even aggressive. One bad experience can scare your puppy for life. The dog park can also be a carrier of disease and germs to your puppy. So training they will be easy if you consistently train the puppy from the beginning. A well-trained dog is easy to spot, in comparison, the untrained dog is all over the place, with the master holding on for dear life. Training starts whenever you get home with your puppy. Whenever you have free time, train the puppy. When training the puppy, do not give up on the give of commands! Then praise the puppy with a treat and or a few words of praise once they follow through. Read on to find out more about this playful breed and to find out whether it is a good choice of family pet for your home. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. If you have dogs or children, try to have them meet the puppy before you bring it home. Ensure that they are respectful of the puppy and its mum, but also that they all get along well. This is a first meeting, so it might not be perfect, but look for signs of aggression and dominance. Give your Springador puppy a nice welcome home by having a comfy dog bed, treats and toys ready! Although it is a hybrid, we can determine a lot of likely characteristics of the resulting cross from the attitudes of the parent breeds. As such, here is what you can expect from your puppy if you buy or adopt one of this mixed breed. Are These Dogs Good for Families? With that said, it is an active breed and can be prone to moments of running around. As such, it may be too boisterous for some small children and will prefer the company of older children that know how to play well. There are usually no problems with regards to aggressiveness, however, and it should not be protective of children if they have friends around. Although this breed is very active and does require plenty of exercise, it will happily shadow its owners around the house, play in the yard, and will curl up in front of the fire or on your lap, of an evening. The Springador is a cross between two hunting dogs and may retain some prey drive. As such, there might be some issues introducing one of this breed to cats, and any smaller animal should not be left unsupervised around any dog. In most cases, though, the Springador will get along with other dogs and can become good friends with cats, especially if they are introduced at a very young age so they have time to get to know one another and bond as a family. Things to Know When Owning a Springador: Friendly, loyal, loving, and playful, the Springador will fit in well with most families and makes a great companion pet for individual owners, too. However, the breed has a strong desire to be around its family at all times and this, combined with its high intelligence and energy levels, means that it can suffer separation anxiety if left alone too long. Separation anxiety is not only distressing for your dog, but it can lead to unwanted and destructive behavior like chewing and destroying items around the house. It can also cause problems with nearby neighbors, so it may not be a suitable breed for families that are all out at work or school every day. Similarly, the high energy levels mean that the Springador usually fares better in a home with a yard or garden, rather than in an apartment. Although a potentially good family companion, it is not the most appropriate breed for all potential owners. Below, we look at some of the other requirements and needs of the breed, so that you can determine whether it is the right choice for you. The Springador is usually smaller than a Labrador but is still considered a large dog. It has a large appetite, and you will need to feed between two and three cups of a good quality kibble each day. Weight problems can be very problematic for dogs, and the Labrador is especially prone to them. They have a seemingly endless appetite that means they will hoover up any food you put in front of them, so be sure to carefully weigh the food you give. You can also feed wet food or canned food, and every food is different, so accurately weigh your dog and then follow the manufacturer guidelines on the volume to feed. If combining both wet and dry food, be careful not to overfeed. You can feed half the recommended dry food and half the recommended wet food. This will give your pet a good mixture of the two foods, ensure that they get all of their nutritional requirements, and provide some variety and excitement in feeding. You also need to take into account any treats that you give your dog. High-value food treats are commonly used in training, especially when teaching new commands and behaviors. Use low-calorie treats and reduce the amount of food you give your dog if you do use food treats. Raw food diets have become increasingly popular because they give owners total control over the ingredients and amounts that are fed. It ensures food is fresh and, if your dog has sensitivities or allergies, it also means that you can create a specialized diet. It does require more work on your part, although you can prepare and properly store the food a few days in advance. The resulting cross is no slouch, is as happy in water as it is on dry land and will benefit from a minimum of one hour of exercise each day. This can include walks and you can take the breed hiking: it will likely outlast you on most treks. It is also very intelligent, so it is beneficial to include some form of mental stimulation to prevent them from getting bored. Consider puppy classes when your dog is young because this will help lay the groundwork for future training at home. It will also allow you to socialize the dog in a positive environment where other owners are in the same boat as you. Springer Spaniels are used as sniffer dogs and tracker dogs, so if you can find some form of exercise or canine sport class that involves scent tracking, then this will fit in well with the breed. Similarly, both parent breeds enjoy time in the water and are highly skilled in their aquatic adventures. Canine sports offer a good opportunity for intense exercise, allow socialization, allow you to train your dog, and they also make a great bonding experience for the two of you. You may need to offer additional warmth in sub-zero temperatures, however, and you should always ensure that any dog has plenty of water and shade when the weather gets really hot. As a mixture of a Labrador and Springer Spaniel, the hybrid breed has medium-length hair that is usually curly and thick. It will need brushing weekly to avoid knots. The breed is a light shedder, although it does shed once or twice a year, depending on the climate. These assist in breaking down tartar and preventing plaque from building up. Poor dental health is a real problem for pet dogs, and only through regular brushing and care can you hope to avoid it. If you do see signs of the following problems, though, you should consult a vet to have checks and scans done. The quicker a problem is diagnosed, the better the outlook. Minor Conditions. Clearly, there is something special about this Springer Lab crossbreed dog. These new hybrid dogs have their fans and their critics. But then again, so do certain purebred dog breeds. For people who love dogs and are seeking a unique dog with a specific set of strengths and attributes, find out if perhaps the Springer Lab is the perfect dog for you! What is a Springador? Setting aside more complex issues of crossbred versus purebred for now, a Springador is the official nickname for the Labrador Springer mix breed dog. This means that all Springadors will have Labrador x Springer characteristics and traits. However, there is no way to predict in advance which of these characteristics and traits from either parent dog might manifest in a given puppy! For some dog lovers, this is a source of great adventure and anticipation. For others, it may be a less desirable aspect of bringing home a Springer Lab puppy. If you are one who needs a dog with a very specific set of attributes, another good option is to adopt a Springador fully grown! Springer Spaniel and Lab history While there have been crossbred dog breeds since the early 21st century and occasionally before — after all, dogs will be dogs sometimes! Since there can be a certain element of the unknown in every litter of hybrid puppies, one of the hands-down best ways to try to figure out what a puppy might grow up to be like is to learn as much as you possibly can about both parent dog breeds. We will start here with a brief overview of the Springer Spaniel and Labrador Retriever breed history. However, with a history that stretches back to A. Since there are two different Springer Spaniel breeds English Springer Spaniel, Welsh Springer Spaniel and 10 total Spaniel breeds, figuring out exactly what Spaniel breed has co-parented your Springador puppy can be very important! Springer Spaniels were bred to be flushing dogs. Their job originally was to jump and bark and flush spring small game birds and furry mammals out of the underbrush to be hunted with hounds, hawks, or guns. These dogs are tireless and very, very good at their jobs! These dogs were originally bred in Newfoundland and called the lesser Newfoundland dog, or alternately, the St. The original St. Originally, Labradors were no surprise here retrievers in the field. They were working dogs who excelled at wading or swimming to retrieve downed water birds and other prey. Their thick, waterproof coat continues forward as evidence of these early beginnings. Today, there are two distinct Labrador Retriever lines , the English show and American pet lines. There are some distinct temperament and appearance differences between the two lines. So here again, it will be important to find out precisely which line the co-parent dog your Springador puppy hails from. Springador origins No one is certain exactly when the hybrid dog breed named the Springador first arose in earnest. Since both Springer Spaniels and Labradors can be, well, determined when they want to make puppies, it is generally agreed that the earliest of these crossbred dogs was likely created purely by accident! But today, the Springador hybrid dog breed is a recognized crossbreed dog — officially in the UK and less officially in the United States. Part of the continuing resistance to the Springador, and to crossbred dogs in general, comes from a perspective in some circles that crossbred dogs dilute purebred dog lines that breeders have worked so hard to build. However, in certain cases, there can be an argument even among dedicated purebred breeders to introduce crossbreeding to strengthen very limited and fragile genetic lines. When done with care and planning, this can sometimes be beneficial for the healthy future of certain purebred dog breeds. While it is unlikely percent of dog lovers, breeders, or club leaders will ever find agreement in the ongoing debate over purebred dogs versus mutts , or mixed breed dogs, today it is at least clear that both are here to stay. Springador size Like all other aspects of a Springador pup, Springador size can take after either parent dog in the Springer Spaniel and Lab mix. So for planning purposes, it can be helpful to look at size extremes — both small and large. In both purebred parent dog breeds, the males tend to be taller and heavier than the females. Springer Spaniel size The Springer Spaniel can weigh anywhere from 40 to 50 pounds in adulthood. In terms of height shoulder to paw pads , the Springer Spaniel is a tall dog, standing between 19 to 20 inches high. Labrador Retriever size The Labrador Retriever can weigh anywhere from 55 to 80 pounds in adulthood. In terms of height, a Lab can stand anywhere from .Springador size A Springador puppy can weigh from 40 to 80 pounds — that is quite a range to plan for! But generally speaking, the majority of Springador pups are likely to fall into the middle weight range: 45 to 65 pounds. Heightwise, a Springador dog may not vary too much from either parent, since both are tall by nature. Springador temperament In most cases, your Springador puppy will be inheriting some lovely temperament genes from each parent dog. These dogs are beloved in the sporting world for their incredible work ethic and intelligence. Springer Spaniels are known to have a strong drive to please their people and an equally strong need to be with people at all times. They are not going to fare well if left alone on a regular basis! They also need lots of activity to stay healthy and happy — this is not a dog breed that will sit happily on the couch for long. Springer Spaniels are not just great hunting dogs, but also make loving family pets. They are known to be good with kids and adults. However, if you have other vulnerable pets in the family, you might want to think twice about choosing a Springador dog, since they are bred to flush and hunt small, quick game prey! So it is no surprise that so many new hybrid dog breeds choose one parent to be a Lab, and of course the Springer x Lab mix is no exception. The Lab is known to be a very friendly family dog with a great enthusiasm for being part of your life in every way. They really love running, playing, and swimming and have a high drive to please their people. Labs are also hunting dogs, so care must be taken when socializing a Lab to accept other vulnerable family pets. However, Labs make excellent family pet dogs and are known to be great with kids. Springador temperament Here, you can see that your Springador puppy is likely to have high energy, a high prey drive, and a high need to be an ongoing part of an active family life. Springadors will not fare well if left to their own devices — they really need to be with people regardless of which parent dog a given puppy takes after most. Springador training As we just learned, both Labrador Retrievers and Springer Spaniels are high energy with a need to please. What does this mean in terms of training? It means there is good news in store for you in most cases! Springador puppies are set to inherit their parents drive, which bodes well for success with daily interactive training sessions! Although the Lab in particular can grow more sedentary in middle to late life. These dogs were born and bred to work tirelessly. Labs in particular depending on the line: English or American can be late to mature. So that adds puppy immaturity to a natural high energy level, curiosity, and intelligence. Both parent dogs enjoy:.

This thoughtfully crafted dog food is formulated to meet the unique nutritional requirements of Labrador Retriever puppies up to 15 months old. It contains premium proteins and prebiotics for optimal digestion and energy. With vitamin E and minerals, it supports the immune system and overall health. The kibble size and texture promote dental health. This puppy food provides a tasty and balanced diet to support healthy growth and development, making it an excellent choice for Labrador Retriever puppy owners. This nutritious dog food is made with real chicken and eggs and provides essential vitamins and minerals for healthy digestion, immune function, and overall well-being. It also supports strong bones and healthy skin and coat. Its balanced nutrition and delicious taste make it a satisfying choice for adult Labrador dogs. This high-quality dog food offers a complete nutritional profile at a reasonable price, making it an excellent value-for-money option for pet parents seeking to provide their dogs with a nutritious diet. How to find the best Labrador dog food? Selecting the optimal dog food for your Labrador necessitates the meticulous evaluation of various factors. Look for high-quality ingredients: Choose dog foods that contain high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, and fats and are free from artificial preservatives and fillers. Choose a formula for Labrador Retrievers: Some dog food brands offer recipes designed explicitly for Labrador Retrievers, considering their unique nutritional needs. Suitability with age: Age factors matter a lot when choosing Labrador dog food. Puppies, adult dogs, and seniors have different dietary requirements, so select a formula appropriate for your dog's age. Read the online reviews to get an idea of how other dog owners feel about a particular dog food brand. You may be interested in Product. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Once they reach eight weeks, changing to dry kibble food is best. We recommend feeding a Labrador puppy dry kibble for the first months before changing to an adult food type. But to remain healthy, owners should know what to feed them. Dog owners should feed a Labrador puppy dry food kibble , wet food, or fresh human food, depending on their budget and lifestyle. There are many options for food for dogs, and it can become challenging to determine which one is the best option for the dog. We have found the best options and listed them below. They help us with our daily tasks, are always there when we need them, and bring great joy to our lives. But, it is essential to ensure that our dog gets the best nutrition possible. They have a lot of energy and need to be fed accordingly. This includes the number of calories, food type, and the number of meals per day. We will explain all of these factors to help understand what to feed these precious animals. A Labrador puppy needs high-quality protein in their diet, so they should not be fed just any type of food. This is why we recommend three food options: dry food or kibble, fresh food or human food, or wet food. We prefer using dry food or kibble in most cases, but it is beneficial to start with wet food for young puppies and transition to dry food after a few weeks. Feeding a puppy human food is possible, but it can be more expensive and requires extra work to stick to a cleaner diet at this age. We have found it to be a healthier and more convenient option for our pets. It is also a good alternative to wet food which can be difficult to store and prepare. The benefits of dry dog food are that it offers the pup a balanced diet that doesn't need refrigeration. It also offers convenience because we can buy it in bulk and store it in the pantry or freezer until needed. Dry dog food is also less expensive than wet food, which is another benefit for pet owners. Fresh Food Human Food Feeding a Labrador puppy a diet of fresh, real human food is one of the best things to do for their health and well-being. It will not only make them happy and content, but it will also keep them healthy. This eliminates the guessing game; they are only fed real, natural foods with no unknown ingredients. However, it will become expensive and require regular cooking and preparation. Wet Food Wet food is recommended for Labrador puppies when they are first born and for the first weeks while they grow. It can be either raw or cooked. Wet food is a good source of water and minerals, which are important in the early days of their life to help them grow strong bones and teeth. It should be given to a puppy as soon as it comes out of its mother's womb, but it must not be given before it starts eating solid foods because it will cause diarrhea. Once they get more mature, moving to kibbles is best. It is known for its low level of grain and carbohydrate content and high protein content. Once they reach the week mark, there are better options to help the puppy continue to develop and grow. This food also helps with digestion and weight management. It also promotes proper bone growth with antioxidants and necessary nutrients like vitamin E. The kibble is also shaped strategically to help puppies who chew fast while helping with jaw growth. Overall, this is the best food option for a Labrador puppy. It is designed for all life stages, from puppies to seniors, and we love the benefits it provides to younger labs. The product features a blend of highly digestible proteins, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, taurine, and glucosamine. This ensures the dog gets the nutrition they need while also reducing the risk of digestive tract problems such as bloat or pancreatitis. It also has a low glycemic index and no corn, wheat, or soy in the recipe. Dog owners can also expect an excellent protein ratio when using this food. Both veterinarians and nutritionists have recognized it for its high-quality ingredients for young puppies. The Acana High Protein formula is made with a blend of chicken, turkey, and fish meals, whole eggs, and natural beef or lamb meal. The product has a limited ingredient list with no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It also has no added sugar and a low glycemic index. This food also contains probiotics and prebiotics to help the pet maintain a healthy immune system. This is the perfect dry dog food for puppies after eight weeks old. This brand is also very affordable for those who want to feed their dog a healthy diet without breaking the bank. It features a patented recipe that helps to promote healthy digestion, strong teeth and gums, healthy skin and shiny coat, a strong immune system, healthy joints and muscles, and a healthy heart. This is a high-protein food option for Labradors too. It promotes lean muscle growth and improved body health with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics 5. It is made with high-quality ingredients and has a great taste and texture for labs to enjoy. This food is to help with puppy development and is suitable for all Labradors under one-year-old. This wet food provides the perfect balance of healthy proteins to support a dog's growth while providing the energy they need to maintain its fitness levels. This can be fed as a meal or as an occasional snack between meals. It has no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or added sugar. It also contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin and the dog's coat. They are large, strong, intelligent dogs that need a lot of attention, exercise, and food. These dogs can be picky eaters and usually need a lot of calories because of their size. This is especially true for puppies so they can grow properly and remain healthy due to their increased risk of health issues. Food Type Labrador puppies' most popular dog foods are kibbles and canned wet food. Kibbles are the best option for a puppy because they are easy to chew and digest. Canned food is a good option for pups who have difficulty chewing or digesting dry food and would benefit from a little moisture in their diet. The food type also depends on the owner. Dry food or kibbles are faster to prepare, while serving human food to a lab puppy requires extensive prep time. Nutritional Value When it comes to nutritional value, we want dog food that has high-quality protein and carbohydrates. This will help the puppy grow strong and healthy. This is why we need to take into account the nutritional value, quality of ingredients, and taste. It should be made with all-natural ingredients that are sourced from human-grade materials such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. A brand should have all the essential nutrients for a pup but still, be low in toxic elements and preservatives too. Dietary Restrictions Lastly, consider the dietary restrictions of the Labrador puppy before choosing a dog food option. This includes any allergies or health concerns for the dog and shopping for something that suits them best. For example, lab puppies must reach a certain carbohydrate and protein number daily. Labradors are also known to have allergies, especially young ones, so planning around this is crucial. A puppy should be fed at least three times a day, with a meal size that is appropriate for its body weight. They should also be given small daily snacks to keep them satisfied and happy, including treats to help with training. We feed our puppies the best that we can. We want to give them all the nutrients and vitamins they need. We also want to make sure that they are getting a balanced diet. The most important thing when feeding a Labrador puppy is that they get enough calories from their food every day. In the first weeks, the puppy should eat four smaller daily meals. Once the lab reaches three months, this can be changed to three meals per day. And after months, we recommend two meals per day. The key is not to change the calories much when the meals change but to simply modify the size of each meal to fit the total daily food amount. Feeding a Labrador puppy is not rocket science, but there are some things everybody should know about what to feed them and when to feed them. We have covered this basis, but changes need to be made as they age. This leads to a common question about changing food to fit the needs of a grown adult Labrador. The dog's age will determine how quickly they grow and how much energy they need. Lab puppies can stick with kibbles for up to 12 months. Diamond Naturals Dog Food Review An additional reason for there being specific food for puppies is the pieces are smaller which not only prevents them from choking, it also makes the food easier to digest. The pieces are richer, denser and the ideal size for smaller mouths. These ingredients are where your pup gets the nutrients they need to grow and live, nutrients that are sadly lacking in the cheaper dog foods. With foods that are a bit more expensive, your pooch can eat a more well-balanced meal and enjoy it. They eat more, they poop more, and this means house training becomes much harder for you. What you feed your puppy is a major factor in the success of your house training process. Firstly, dry food tends to be more complete and balanced with the correct amount of vital nutrients in it. The ingredients tend to be of better quality as long as you pick the right brand. Plus, dry food helps to keep teeth strong due to being a solid food, and the slightly abrasive nature of the solid food has a natural teeth cleaning effect. It also lasts far longer than cans as you need to feed less of it. Recommended Best Puppy Food For Labs And Large Breeds In this next section we give you 4 of the best foods on the market made from high quality ingredients but still available at a reasonable price. These foods will provide your puppy with all the nutrients they need in just the right mix and quantities, not just so they survive, but so they can truly thrive. Deboned chicken is high quality chicken protein, whereas the chicken and turkey meal is a concentrate. It is nutrient rich with vitamin D, vitamin B12, vitamin E, vitamin C and vitamin A as well as containing minerals like zinc, iron and calcium. It even has some fruit content like apples and blueberries. The Lactobacillus acidophilus, green tea extract and rosemary extract are all known to help prevent infections. This is a very high-quality food your puppy will truly thrive on and is our top recommendation as the best puppy food for labs. However, if price is no object, K9 is certainly one of the best foods available! K9 Natural Grain-Free Puppy Freeze-Dried Dog Food gives your puppy all the benefits of raw food, aiming for optimum levels of growth and development — not too fast nor stunted — and for lean muscle mass and peak conditioning. Its main ingredient is grass-fed New Zealand beef. And this is rounded out by whole food ingredients like flaxseed, kelp, New Zealand mussel, fruits and veggies, and hoki oil which provides DHA for EPA for healthy brain and eye development. It gets a big thumbs up from us. The first ingredient is bison and is a high quality meat product. The next ingredient is lamb meal, which has a large amount of protein in it being a meat concentrate, percent more than fresh lamb meat. The third highest ingredient is sweet potatoes, which are an excellent source of complex carbs. They contain fiber and beta carotene. In fact, this food consists of approx. This provides your puppy with a source of energy ideal for his busy puppy lifestyle. Overall, this food is highly recommended and your puppy should thrive on it. They also allow regular independent inspections of their manufacturing process and source ingredients the US, EU and NZ. So quality control is well taken care of. The large breed puppy formula contains a scientifically formulated balance of proteins, fats, phosphorous and calcium in just the right amounts and proportions to promote a healthy rate of bone and muscle development, highly important for large breed puppies where excessive nutrients can be just as harmful as malnutrition. The food also contains glucosamine and chondroitin for the health of connective soft tissues which is reassuring for large breeds, and especially Labradors, who can suffer from many joint problems in life. It also contains omega oils for healthy brain development, as well as other fatty acids known to promote healthy skin and coat. So Eukanuba large breed puppy food comes recommended. The fiber in it will help with digestion while it has antioxidants that are known to help keep your dog healthy for many years to come. Royal Canin Breed Specific Labrador Puppy Royal Canin is a very well-known brand with lots of positive reviews from past and present dog owners on Amazon. It has an above average protein content than the minimum recommended for your dog, coming in at 31 percent protein at dry weight. The protein it has comes mostly from chicken by-product meal which is considered somewhat low quality and consists of whatever is left after chickens are slaughtered. However, it does NOT — as you might read elsewhere — consist of anything from feet to beaks. According to dogfoodadvisor. After chicken by-product meal, the second ingredient in this food is brewers rice. The fourth ingredient is corn gluten meal which is a residue left over once most of the useful, starchy carbohydrates have been washed out of it. With such popularity, high ratings and reviews with so many people saying their dogs thrive on this, there must be some truth to it. The third to 5th ingredients are wholesome whole grains that provide high energy from complex carbohydrates that are easy to digest. These are far better than corn and most other sources of carbs found in cheaper foods that are hard for a puppy to get any nutrition from. Out of everything in this product, 40 percent of it is protein, which is higher than average. About 14 percent of it is fat, and of the remainder, 38 percent is carbs. And the omega oils may help reduce risk of developing arthritis. Not only this, but Labradors are a large breed and are more sensitive to nutritional imbalances than smaller breeds. You really do need to get their diet right to do the best for them. Luckily, many brands of food specifically aimed at large breeds and Labradors have been created that provide everything they need in just the right amounts, that are easy for an owner to feed by simply following instructions on the packet. I know there is a lot of conflicting advice out there when it comes to dog food and it can be a nightmare to wade through if trying to find the best puppy food for Labs. So hopefully this article has been of some use to you. A very good resource that does good work for dog food quality awareness. Check them out! Please be aware this page contains affiliate links and Labrador Training HQ receives a small commission if you make a purchase through any such links. This has no effect on the eventual price you pay and we are very grateful for your support. 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. Increase portions as your puppy grows. Be sure to follow the rule of dog treats. This is about changes over time. Nutritional deficiency or excess can lead to disease and ultimately death. You may have noticed that your dog has dandruff after changing food, but the food is really good — try adding levels of zinc and vitamin A. Your main task as a pet owner is to monitor the health of a small family member and be responsible for this life. Image credit: canva. The first one is a protein that can be found in meat, poultry, fish, yogurt, and cooked eggs. Protein is responsible for the structure of muscles and tissues, as well as the formation and growth of new cells. In the diet for a Labrador puppy, it is imperative to include carbohydrates that are found in brown rice, potatoes, and wheat. Carbohydrates supply the body with glucose, which is responsible for the functioning of the brain and nervous system. An obligatory component of dog food is fats. It is a source of energy, development, and functioning of the cells and muscles of the body. Fats are included in oil and even fish oil. Puppy food for Labs or any other dog includes a certain amount of minerals such as calcium, potassium, sodium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and others. Minerals in dog food form bones and cartilage and balance the nerves. It promotes the production of hormones in the Lab puppies, regulates the balance of fluids in the body, and transports oxygen into the blood. Like people, dog and puppy foods should include plenty of water. Water is life! Once in the body, they strengthen bones, and teeth and fill the Labrador puppy with energy. Cost point Every time you buy pet food, you think about the issue of price. Of course, cost is important when making a purchasing decision. You should be aware that higher-quality puppy food can cost more than the average price. Your dog is an irreplaceable member of your family, which must be protected and loved with all your heart. Risks and diseases Lab owners should know well about all risks and diseases that their dogs may face. Numerous studies confirm that the Labrador Retriever breed is prone to digestive sensitivities and skin allergies due to irritating foods. This leads to pruritic diseases. Skin allergies and problems with the gastrointestinal tract are severe. Labs are prone to obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight and body is considered an important point of caring for a dog. In general, Labrador Retrievers should have a taut, hourglass-shaped figure. Obesity puts additional stress on bones and joints and makes it difficult to stay healthy. To combat weight gain, you need to exercise your dog with certain physical exercises, follow a proper diet, control portion sizes, and receive treats. Another disease caused by malnutrition is Gastric dilatation-volvulus. In short, this is boating. Indigestion is a severe problem that should not be ignored. The worst risk is death from the musculoskeletal disorder of muscles, nerves, joints, arthritis, and spinal discs. Also, you should be aware that feed processing of dog foods affects the occurrence and development of cancer. Dry food is cooked at a very high temperature, which leads to the formation of harmful chemical elements in the body of the dog. Such food also contains carbohydrates, which break down into cancer-causing glucose. You can combine dog food with homemade recipe food for your pet yourself. Moreover, it is a good way of feeding your dog if the dog food at home is over or there is very little left, but you need to extend the time until the next purchase. Dogs fed solely on home-cooked or combined diets lived for about 13 years, while those fed only processed food lived for about 10 years. Like human food, it can be chewed easily. Food is broken down in the body so that key nutrients are absorbed more quickly. Such food facilitates digestion and relaxes the stomach. Reducing stress on the digestive system reduces the likelihood of bloating. If you still decide to cook homemade food, follow the rules. Study each ingredient. Cook all animal products for the exact finish to kill harmful bacteria. Risks of homemade dog food Most of the problems are caused by a misunderstanding of the nutritional needs of the Labrador. If you do not understand the effect of food on the body of your pet, which reaction is correct and which can lead to negative consequences and different stages of life, contact a professional veterinarian who can tell you in detail about the effect of food on the body of a dog and how to properly form a pet diet. What food is best for a Labrador puppy? We made for you the list of the best puppy food for Labrador puppies. We can highlight the most noteworthy products from this list. Should I feed my Lab puppy dry or wet food? Mix dry and wet food. What is better to choose — opinions are different. But if you are in doubt about which puppy food to choose, consult your veterinarian. What is the recommended amount of water for a puppy? Older pups that have been nursed require one-half ounce to one ounce of water per pound of body weight. What do you feed an 8-week-old Lab puppy? An 8-week-old puppy should be fed several small meals a day. After 14 weeks, the Lab puppy can switch to two meals a day. Food for a Labrador puppy should be full of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals for healthy development. Giving treats is fine, but remember that Labradors are prone to overeating and gaining weight quickly. Also, try to give treats for obedience. You can choose canned food and dry food for your dog as you wish but you should always think about the effect of this dog food on your dog. Hope this article was helpful for you and that your pet will grow healthy and strong. Lab puppies need a balanced diet with high-quality proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water to ensure proper growth and development. Also, calcium and phosphorus support bone growth; omega fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin; antioxidants for enhanced immunity; and prebiotics or probiotics for improved digestion. Protein And Fat Content As an owner of a Labrador puppy, keep a check on the amount of protein and fat in their food. A balanced diet with adequate protein content promotes muscle growth, bone development, and healthy brain function. When choosing the best food, look out for pet foods that contain high-quality ingredients rich in animal-sourced proteins such as chicken meal, turkey meal or lamb meal. Avoid dog foods with artificial flavors and preservatives that can cause health complications in your puppy. Avoid foods with meat by-products or fillers like corn gluten meal. Look for brands prioritizing using fresh fruits and vegetables to provide additional nutrients and fiber. Avoid artificial flavors and preservatives. When reading food labels, ensure that protein is one of the first listed ingredients, guaranteeing high-quality dog food. They also need sufficient glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joint development. You can ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients by choosing a breed-specific formula like best purina pro plan for labs recommended by four veterinarians in the USA. Allergies And Intolerances Some common ingredients in dog food, such as beef, corn, soy, fish, and wheat, can cause allergic reactions. If you notice symptoms such as poor skin or coat health after feeding them certain foods or treats, consult a veterinarian immediately. They may recommend a special diet or elimination process to determine the allergen. Budget While high-end, premium dog foods may seem the best option, they can also be expensive. It is a well-known brand that offers both dry and canned food options at reasonable prices Feeding Schedule And Portion Control For Labrador Puppies Learn how to properly feed and control the portion sizes of your Labrador puppy with our helpful feeding guide and puppy schedule chart. Generally, Labrador puppies should be fed times a day until they are six months old, after which you can switch them to twice-a-day feedings. The amount of food you give your pup will depend on their age and weight. Never overfeed your lab because obesity is prevalent in the breed. Therefore, watch portion sizes and adjust accordingly if you notice any significant changes. Most puppies must eat thrice a day until they are six months old. After this time, you can reduce the frequency and switch them to two larger meals daily. Instead, stick to set feeding times and portion sizes recommended by your veterinarian or on the packaging of their dog food brand. Healthy Feeding Practices For best puppy food for labs One of the best ways to ensure proper nutrition is by selecting high-quality dog food that meets all their nutritional needs. In addition to selecting the right type of food, portion control is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight in Labrador puppies. Puppy Feeding Schedule Chart: healthy food for labrador puppy Establishing a proper feeding schedule is key. Age of Puppy. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. Your Lab puppy is going to require a different balance of nutrients than an adult Lab. Different dog breeds are susceptible to different genetic health conditions. Larger breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Nutrition plays a vital role in preventing certain health issues. In recent years concern has been raised about a possible link between grain-free and non-grain-free diets that list legumes high on their ingredient list causing heart disease. This may be of consequence to Labradors as the breed is more prone to heart conditions than others. This does not just include Labs, but owners of any large or giant dog breed should be aware of this important information so they can make the most well-informed decision. Image Credit: Didkovska Ilona, Shutterstock Choosing the Best Food While having a list of the best puppy foods is a great start, you still must narrow it down to one. So, how does one choose from a list of great choices? Below we will cover some of the most important things to consider before making your final choice. What Does Your Veterinarian Recommend? Chances are that your veterinarian has dealt with purebred Labrador Retrievers many times before. Dog Food Brand You want to ensure you are choosing a dog food brand that is reputable. Finding a brand that is made with veterinary nutritionists and is backed by scientific research is ideal. If a brand advertises that they participate in AAFCO feeding trials, this means they have invested in research to ensure there are no nutritional deficiencies in the food. The ingredients in any pet food will help you determine the quality of the food. Look for foods that contain real meat as the number one ingredient. Below is a list of ingredients that are best avoided: Ingredients to Avoid.

The breed was officially known as the Alsatian in Britain until when its name was changed back to German Shepherd. The German Shepherd is a relatively new breed of dog, with their origin dating to .As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds are working dogs developed originally for herding sheep. Intelligence German Shepherds were bred specifically for their intelligence, a trait for which they are now famous. Agression and Biting While an Australian report from provides statistics showing that German Shepherds are the breed third most likely to attack a person in some Australian locales, once their popularity is taken into account, the percentages of GSD attacks drops to 38th. One such common ailment is hip and elbow dysplasia which may cause the dog to experience pain later on in life and may cause arthritis. These dogs all looked very similar at that time, and it was around that the three breeds Belgian Shepherd, German Shepherd and Dutch Shepherd went their separate ways. My German Shepherd is great except when we play ball. But where do you start? He accomplishes this through positive reinforcement, which rewards dogs for good behaviors. This, in turn, builds a trusting relationship in which the dog wants to please its owner. Millan never uses harsh punishments or corrections, as he believes they only serve to damage the relationship and make problems worse. Well, Cesar has a unique way of communicating with dogs that is based on understanding their natural instincts. Dogs respond very well to his calm, assertive energy, and they quickly learn what is expected of them. His training methods are also very humane. Cesar never uses physical dominance or punishment as a way to train dogs. He believes that this type of behavior only creates resentment and makes dogs afraid of their owners. Instead, he focuses on positive reinforcement and providing clear boundaries. Remember, always start with basic obedience commands and work your way up. Once your dog has mastered these commands, you can move on to the following exercises. Sit-Stay: This is one of the most important commands to have in your arsenal. Start by having your dog sit and stay. If he gets up, calmly put him back in position and start over. Down-Stay: The down-stay is similar to the sit-stay, but requires your dog to stay in a down position instead of sitting. Again, start by having your dog sit and stay, then give him a cue to down and stay. Come: This command is essential for keeping your dog safe. From here, give him a cue to come and reward him when he does so. As he masters this skill, you can start having him come when you call him from different areas of the house or yard. He has some valuable tips for successful German Shepherd training. Cesar advises against harsh punishments, as these can confuse and scare your dog. This particular breed is naturally loyal and protective, planing for german shepherd so you need to create a gentle balance between being firm but also trusting of your dog. Cesar often suggests getting your pup involved in activities that show off their natural energy and strength, such as agility or rally obedience classes. This allows them to explore new environments while giving you an opportunity to reinforce obedience by giving them verbal cues. With patience and consistency in training, you can have a great relationship with your German Shepherd! Will I need to attend an obedience class for my German Shepherd? An obedience class can be a great way to get your German Shepherd familiar with commands and behaviors, as well as give you a chance to work on them together with an instructor present. How often should I train my dog? The frequency of training sessions is up to you, but bear in mind that consistency is key. What tools should I use when training my German Shepherd? Positive reinforcement is the best way to go, so look for treats and toys that will reward good behavior rather than punishing bad behavior. Conclusion Owners of German Shepherds need to be consistent and provide clear boundaries for their dogs. They also need to be positive reinforcement trainers, using treats and play to reward their dogs for desired behaviors. With patience and proper training, your German Shepherd can become a well-adjusted member of your family.

Especially if they give you licks with that mouth. This is a very common habit that most Frenchies pick up. This is because young Frenchies are known to copy the things they see their mother do. This likely has you wondering why the mother French Bulldog was eating the poop. You see, the mother is removing the poop from the habitat. As an act to keep her puppies safe, she will eat the poo to remove the smell. Digestion Problems If your Frenchie has a digestion problem, the food it eats could pass through its system too quickly. When the dog has a bowel movement, the food in it will smell almost identical to how it did when the dog consumed it. This can make it tempting for the Frenchie to eat the poo. Additionally, this can also happen if you are feeding the dog low-quality food. When a dog has a parasite, it will feast on everything the dog eats. Even though you may be providing all the right nutrients to your Frenchie, the parasite is absorbing them all. This leaves the Frenchie feeling very hungry and on the lookout for something to eat. Medical Issue One of the downfalls of Frenchies is that they are prone to diabetes and thyroid problems. Some French Bulldogs will have difficulties eating, whereas others will eat everything in sight. This habit has been noticed by dog owners who leave their Frenchie alone for long periods. Since Frenchies are companion dogs, they get bored if they are left alone for too long. This can lead to some bad habits, with poop eating being one of them. Medication With Steroids Many Frenchies are prone to allergies. For dogs with severe allergies, steroid treatment may be recommended by the vet. One of the side effects of steroids is an increased appetite. This will have your Frenchie eating everything edible insight, including poop. While there are many reasons why your Frenchie is eating poop, the good news is that there are also several ways you can get them to stop. Below are some of our top tips for stopping this dirty habit. Nutrition is key to good health. In many cases, a Frenchie will eat the poop because it smells of food in it. For this reason, you may need to reconsider what you are feeding the dog. When you buy good quality food, it will keep the dog full for longer. Be positive with your training methods so the dog responds well and you will have more success. Make a Poo Spray When all else fails, you need to make that poop unappetizing. Common choices include: Spices. Close share Copy link Everybody loves puppies and their cute antics. French bulldogs are no exception. However, they often get a bad reputation for eating their poop. This is not fair on the dog as they are not doing it to deliberately be disgusting, they are just trying to survive. This blog will look at why they eat their poop and how you can stop it. There are many reasons why your French bulldog would do this but some of the common reasons are Coprophagia Most dog owners will tell you that their pet dogs eat poop because they are not aware of what they're ingesting. That may be true for some French bulldogs, but all dog breeds have their unique tastes, preferences, and dietary needs. For example, French Bulldogs will oftentimes enjoy eating fecal matter or other types of foods that you probably don't even know they have a taste for. And this is referred to as coprophagia. Following Mother Instinct Frenchie puppies start eating their poop they are with their littermates. They learn this behavior from their mother, who will naturally tidy up the "nest. Puppies will emulate their mother's behavior and may begin to ingest feces. Parasites Dogs with parasite infections tend to obsessively eat certain foods. This is because the parasites consume all of the dog's food, so there's nothing left to eat. In the end, they will start eating their own feces. The best way to deal with a dog in this condition is to examine their poop regularly and take them to the vet for treatment as soon as possible. Over Use Of Steroids Allergies in French bulldogs can result in a variety of issues, from skin sensitivity to behavioral problems. In some cases, it might lead to serious itching which can be treated with steroids, but these medications tend to affect chronically ill French bulldogs. They also increase hunger, so your dog may not eat for hours and then gorge on its poop. Again, this is another common occurrence reported by many Frenchie owners. Medical Issues French bulldogs are not immune to diabetes and unfortunately, this incurable condition brings bad things. Some dogs refuse to eat while others get an increased appetite. This can be rather unappetizing to a puppy, but they will take it as an attractive option and start eating their poop. Anxiety When your French bulldog suffers from anxiety, they may have a few undesirable habits that stem outward. For example, your dog may begin to start eating his poop in stress. The French Bulldog, or "Frenchie" as fans often call them, is short, sporty, and unmistakably sweet. It is no surprise for new owners to learn these dogs are the fourth most popular American Kennel Club AKC registered purebred dog breed in the United States! But out of all the adorably cute things French Bulldogs are known for around the world, poop eating isn't one of them. In fact, this is one of the behaviors that most stress out Frenchie owners. Why do French Bulldogs eat poop? Is this a normal behavior or is something medically wrong? Is there anything you can do to keep your Frenchie from eating poop — their own or the poop of other animals? Let's discover the answers to these questions now. If you ask your dog's veterinarian about this behavior, they will tell you it is common enough to have earned its own medical term — coprophagia "caw-pruh-fay-gee-uh". Coprophagia describes "feeding on dung. So if your French bulldog eats their own poop and if your Frenchie eats your pet cat's poop or the dog next door's poop, it is still the same behavior. But why on earth would your beloved French Bulldog do this when you lavish them with the best food and tastiest treats? It is just so gross! Just in case you need more proof that you are not alone in dealing with this issue although by now we highly doubt you do you can always check out this super-gross YouTube video made by a French Bulldog owner. But remember — we warned you! So why in the world does your French Bulldog eat poop — their own or the poop of other animals? Let's ask a veterinarian for more information. According to noted veterinarian Dr. Becker , there isn't actually just one reason why your French Bulldog may start eating poop. There can be a number of different reasons. In the world of canine biology, there are only two reasons when poop eating in companion animals may be considered "normal. A mother French bulldog eats the feces of her young as part of cleaning them If you have never bred your Frenchie, you may not realize that the mama dog has to help her newborn puppies learn to poop. She even has to remind them to poop! She does this by licking their private areas with her tongue. This teaches the young puppies to poop after they have nursed. Sometimes the mama dog will end up eating the poop as well, either to protect the puppies by eliminating odor that predators might pick up or simply because it comes out while she licks them. A French Bulldog is trying to glean extra nutrition missing from their diet The only other biological reason why a Frenchie may start eating poop here again, their own or that of other animals is due to a nutritional deficiency. For example, let's say the food you are feeding your French bulldog isn't delivering the right amount of certain key nutrients. Your dog may start eating poop to try to supplement their diet and add back important digestive enzymes, digestive fiber prebiotics , gut bacteria probiotics , vitamins, minerals, and other trace elements. This is quite common in many species of wild animals, and particularly those that are considered foraging species who may struggle to simply find enough food to survive. For some species like guinea pigs for example , poop eating is so vital they will die if they are not able to have access to their own feces. But it is not either necessary or common in companion canines unless the captive diet is deficient. Other Less Normal Reasons Why Your French Bulldog May Eat Poop In addition to these "normal" biological reasons why your French Bulldog might suddenly start to eat poop, there are other less-normal reasons that can trigger coprophagia. As your French Bulldog's doting owner, you may not be able to think of a single reason why you would ever eat poop — like, EVER — your dog can find lots of good reasons for coprophagia. Dogs Naturally Magazine outlines the most common reasons dogs eat poop that fall outside the two biological reasons we talked about here earlier. These reasons for poop eating range from the medical to the behavioral and are each common enough to have plenty of evidence behind them. Your Frenchie has a parasite or medical condition Frenchies are petite pups and active enough to use up the nutrients they get at mealtimes. But when you add a worm or a parasite that is now living off your dog's food, your pup may need to eat more to sustain them both. When this happens, your dog may still be hungry even if you are giving them ample portions at mealtimes. Eating poop maybe your dog's way to tell you there is something wrong. Your French Bulldog is bored Frenchies that get bored may start biting or eating inappropriate things, including the couch cushions, their toys, your clothes, and poop. Your dog isn't getting enough food at mealtimes If your French Bulldog is hungry, you can bet they will pop poop in their mouth as a way to fill up. Your Frenchie is still a puppy and will mouth anything and we mean anything French bulldog puppies that are going through teething are likely to mouth, bite and swallow just about anything, including poop. Your French Bulldog thinks poop smells amazing and must taste even better! It's hard to argue with such a super-sensitive sniffer! Your Frenchie has gotten stressed out for some reason French Bulldogs are very smart, and often smart dogs are more emotionally sensitive to change and disruption to their normal routine. A move, the addition of a new pet or person, even a change of food may trigger poop eating. Your French bulldog is from a puppy mill and this is a learned behavior Dogs that have been rescued from puppy mills are more likely to exhibit coprophagia because they were not given enough food heartbreakingly sad but oh-so-true. Your Frenchie has learned this behavior from their mom or another dog South Boston Animal Hospital explains some dogs learn this by watching their mom. Your Frenchie has learned that eating poop gets your attention Let's be honest. French Bulldogs are incredibly smart! If your Frenchie has noticed that eating poop always grabs your attention, you can absolutely expect this behavior to be added to their list of tricks to keep your eyes on them…and only them. How to Stop Your French Bulldog from Eating Poop From the moment you first noticed your French Bulldog chowing down on poop, you probably wanted just one thing: to make it stop. This is totally normal! But first, you have to find out exactly why it is happening. You may need to enlist the help of your dog's veterinarian to discover which of the reasons you just read about may be contributing to your dog's poop habit. Once you know the reason, it becomes a lot easier to take steps to make eating poop seem a lot less appealing. Here are some tips to try right away even while you may be waiting for veterinary test results to come back : Give your dog more activity, exercise, and playtime. Consider switching to a new food. Keep your lawn well-maintained and poop-free. Use a short leash to discourage free-range poop eating while out on walks. Don't let your dog out in the back yard unsupervised. Add calming aids for when you have to be away and your Frenchie gets anxious. Be sure you are keeping your French bulldog's daily routine very predictable. Try a poop additive sprinkling something unpleasant tasting on top of poop. Refresh your Frenchie's training lessons on "drop it" and "leave it. Do you have any great tips to share about what you did to solve the problem? We are all about finding new creative ways to keep dogs and poop apart. Drop us a comment to share your tips. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. The habit of eating poop can be difficult to reverse since it is considered a self-rewarding behavior. Make sure there is no animal waste in your yard at all times. After your French Bulldog has defecated, pick up their stool as soon as possible. You must be very careful to notice that your Frenchie eats their feces during or soon after defecating. Keep your French Bulldog leashed when they defecate if you can. Then, reward them with something tasty to keep them interested, and make sure you dispose of the poop as soon as possible. There is no doubt that French Bulldogs are curious dogs. There are particular Frenchies and those who eat anything they can get their mouths on. The consumption of poop is referred to as coprophagia by vets. Dogs are often shown to exhibit coprophagia; it appears to be a behavioral disease but can sometimes be a symptom of something else. A behavioral diagnosis can only be made after medical causes of coprophagia have been excluded. A veterinarian can formulate a behavioral plan for treating coprophagia once potential medical issues have been ruled out. There are many possible reasons for this behavior. Your French Bulldog may start eating their poop or the poo of other animals if they have medical problems or bad behavioral habits. Before beginning treatment, working with your vet to determine the most likely cause of your Frenchies eating feces is a good idea. The main causes of poop eating in older French Bulldogs maybe boredom, loneliness, anxiety, stress, or a need for attention. Poop eating is fortunately outgrown for most puppies, but for some Frenchies, it may persist into adulthood and become a habit or even a compulsive behavior. Behavioral Causes For Eating Poop Typically, coprophagia is a behavioral problem that resolves by the time the pup reaches adulthood. Some common causes of coprophagia in French Bulldogs of all ages include: Behavioral CausesIncorrect training: Some French Bulldog owners attempt to toilet train their Frenchie by sticking their noses into the poop when messing up in the house. Sometimes this conditions your Frenchie to become interested in eating it. Curiosity: In the beginning, dogs or puppies may exhibit poo-eating behavior because it attracts attention from owners. Innate behavior: In many instances, Frenchies will clean, groom, and eat the feces of their young puppies. Imitating other dogs: The behavior of female dogs that clean and ingest puppy poo during nesting may cause puppies to mimic the behavior of their mother or other dogs that demonstrate the same behavior. If necessary, parasite testing and stool and blood tests should be done. Is your French Bulldog eating the poop of other animals, for example, cats? We may consider non-food items strange and unsanitary when our dogs eat them, like food taken from the garbage in garbage bins. Dogs are often attracted to the smell, texture, and taste of food — regardless of how we perceive them. There are times when cat feces and other animals are attractive enough to appeal to your French Bulldog. Since dogs interpret smell very differently from humans, poop may not be considered a bad smell to your Frenchie. When exploring their surroundings, dogs are consistently drawn to the smell of poop. As a result, if your French Bulldog finds poo appealing enough, he might eat it. How do I get my French bulldog to stop eating poop? First off, make sure you do not do any of the following. Even though your French Bulldog may seem to stop eating stools after coating them with taste deterrents, the behavior may return when they find a stool that is not treated. French Bulldogs whose veterinarians have given them a clean bill of health will benefit from these tips. Consult a nutritionist if this is an issue for you. As a general rule, you want to feed foods high in high-quality protein and do not contain grains, soy, or corn. Raw food has been proven to work for many dogs because most of the stool is wasted. Some have also successfully fed canned food to their dogs because canned food is more easily digested. Gradually adding the new dog food to the old over a few days is the best way to transition to a new diet. Overfeeding is also dangerous, as it could cause the meal only to be partially digested. A French Bulldog whose food is eaten too fast will not be digested either, which leads to more appetizing stools. Some dog owners have reported relief from the poop-eating habit of their dogs after adding high-quality probiotics and digestive enzymes to their diets. The addition of B vitamin supplements may be recommended in cases of vitamin B deficiency. Another remedy mentioned is to use breath mints, meat tenderizers, and hot sauces to cover their feces. Still, these seem short-term solutions since the poop-eating habit returns immediately after the application is stopped. We often wait for a miracle cure when the solution lies right before us. Management methods such as this work because they prevent your Frenchie from constantly practicing an unwanted behavior. If your French Bulldog repeats the poop-eating behavior enough, it will develop habits that will be harder to break. Behavior-Modification Behavior modification may also prove helpful if dietary changes recommended by your veterinarian and medical disorders have been ruled out. You should distract your French Bulldog with a treat after they have pooped to divert their attention from it. It may not be long before a new behavior pattern emerges. Conclusion Maintaining a clean yard while keeping your French Bulldog on a leash helps prevent poop eating and minimizes the chances of reenacting unwanted behaviors. A fence surrounding an area where your Frenchie eliminates in the yard will help you pick up the poop easily since it will all be in one spot. Even so, management does not address the root cause, whether it is related to a medical condition or a behavioral issue. There is, therefore, no best way to prevent a dog from eating his poop, but there are several approaches you can take to prevent it. And can you stop from them eating it? Why does my French Bulldog eat poop? French Bulldogs eating poop is very common, particularly with puppies. It can be due to a number of reasons in adult dogs including boredom and health issues. Frenchie puppies will eat poop due to digestion issues, hunger, and evolutionary behaviour. Why a French Bulldog puppy keeps eating poop? Firstly, you should not be concerned to see a Frenchie puppy eating poop. They will often start doing this whilst in the litter. She will do this as an evolutionary trait, as animals will clean poop away from youngsters to stop predators being attracted by the smell. Puppies will naturally mimic their mother and can start to eat faeces. However, some French Bulldog puppies will continue to keep eating poop until they grow older. They will be naturally attracted to the smell and are curious to taste and test things out. Even at this age, the sight of a freshly laid poop can be very enticing to a young Frenchie puppy. Just like a human baby naturally puts things in their mouth to try them out, puppies are no different — even if that is the stools and faeces of another dog! Aside from the evolutionary behaviour already spoken about which they should grow out of here are more reasons why your French Bulldog could still be eating his poop as a puppy. Because he has poor digestion and low nutrient food If your Frenchie puppy is having difficulty in digesting his food, he may continue to eat poop for a few months as a youngster. It will smell and taste almost exactly the same — this is very tempting for a puppy! Because he is hungry Frenchie puppies are very prone to picking up intestinal parasites and worms, particularly if they have continued to eat poop outside of the litter. Have a read of that and stick to it — your Frenchie puppy needs to be fed well three times a day, and if you skip this, the hunger can lead to poop eating. Because he wants attention All French Bulldog puppies want attention, and plenty of it! Any attention is good attention to a Frenchie puppy. Because he is bored This is weird but true. Some French Bulldog puppies will eat poop if they are bored. This is really common with Frenchie owners who have left their puppies alone for long periods of time. Frenchies are a very sociable breed, so leave them alone at your own peril. If you find your French Bulldog puppy eating his own poop, perhaps you need to spend a bit more time with him. Because he is stressed French Bulldogs eating poop, particularly adult ones, will often be a sign that they are depressed and stressed. It does affect puppies too though. Stress can manifest itself in many different ways, with destructive and anti-social behaviour being high on the list. Your puppy could be feeling this way due to a sudden change in his environment such as a home move, a new animal being introduced, or a big scare. If you are unsure about whether your dog is happy or not, and how to tell, read this blog post I wrote about the signs of Frenchie happiness to look out for. An unhappy Frenchie can eat their own poop — how happy is yours? He fell into the trap of telling his puppy off every time he defecated on the kitchen floor. He should not have done this for a number of reasons, but one major consequence was the puppy would eat his poop each time he did it. The reason why? Should you be concerned about poop eating? Most will grow out of it in time. By reacting badly, you could make the situation worse. Below I will take you through some methods on how to stop a French Bulldog eating his own poop, so please read that. But, should you be worried about health risks from your Frenchie eating faeces? However, if your Frenchie is eating the poop of another dog or animal regularly, then this could lead to a health issue. They can also end up digesting medication or other foreign bodies that are designed for their digestive system. Signs that your French Bulldog might have a health problem from eating poop include: Gastroenteritis: is your Frenchie sick, hot, dry heaving, or depressed? Vomiting and diarrhoea: this is easy to spot here are more reasons for vomiting Decreased appetite: has your Frenchie gone off his food? Tiredness: is your French Bulldog less active than usual and lethargic? Intestinal parasites: can you see worms in their faeces? If your French Bulldog puppy keeps eating poop or adult dog and you see any of the warning signs above, please consult a professional vet immediately for proper advice. How to stop your French Bulldog from eating its poop So, how do you prevent your French Bulldog from eating poop? Here are the best tips for preventing poop eating. Feed your Frenchie a well-balanced and nutritional diet French Bulldogs who have a well-balanced diet with plenty of nutrient-rich food should not really be eating poop. Make sure you have your puppy on good quality food, so he gets all the goodness he needs including protein, minerals, vitamins and other essential nutrients. Look out for signs of bad digestion As already discussed, poor digestion can lead your Frenchie to this unsettling habit. If your dog is eating faeces more than what might be considered normal, then look out for signs of a digestive problem including: Slowed growth and development. Increased vomiting and throwing up. Watery and liquid type stools. Large lumps of undigested food in the stools. Give your Frenchie lots of attention and exercise A bored Frenchie leads to a multitude of problems, including the dreading poop eating. Always clean up immediately after your puppy has done his business. You are taking his opportunity away to examine the stool and taste it. Some owners say that this works wonders as it can make their poop taste foul and will help to quickly break the habit. As well as pineapple, some online vets have said that you can add other elements to their diet such as meat tenderizer, digestive enzymes, or natural additives. They share the same yard and garden space. Here you can see Claude sniffing out some interesting cow dung in our local forest. The first time Claude had a bite on a spicy cat poop, he soon stopped. If you have a poop-eater, keep them leashed at all times until they grow out of the disgusting habit. We live near a large forest where there are roaming animals such as cows and horses and Claude loved their dung. We kept him on his lead for a few months to stop from eating it all. Discourage your Frenchie from doing it with a distraction. This could be a ball or a treat, but anything to get them away from the faeces. Positive reinforcement works wonders with French Bulldog puppies… After time, they should break the habit and you will be able to give them more freedom to explore as they get older. What if none of this works? If your French Bulldog continues to eat poop despite all your best efforts using the tips listed above, you will need to consult a professional. Your vet will be able to give advice, or possibly an animal behaviourist which I am not. What other Frenchie owners say? Give your Frenchie some pineapple as when it comes out the other end it stinks worse than normal. I saw this on TV when they said it makes the poop very acidic and they typically stay away. Maybe it works for some Frenchies but not my two girls. My last resort is using a hot a spicy chili sauce on the poop and this has worked well so far. But I do have to go out into the yard first. So on advice from the vet , we left her poop we try and collect it as soon as possible and then added some Tobasco sauce to it. This helped to break the habit with our Frenchie and he no longer sees it as a valuable prize. Do it for a couple of weeks and see how you get on. It worked very well for us, and it stopped the eating. Try to give them a supplement to counteract any vitamin or mineral deficiencies they may have. Also, this poop eating is unfortunately a way for pups to contract coccidia which is an intestinal parasite. Treatment will be something called Albon oral medicine. So yes, crushed pineapple is the best way to stop your Frenchie eating poop, at least for us. I am glad it worked, as whilst I was researching this guide, I found some worrying information about toxoplasmosis. If your French Bulldog eats cat poop, he could get infected with toxoplasmosis. It can be very dangerous, and I recommend reading this guide on the PetMd. Conclusion Poop eating known as coprophagy is very common in Frenchies, particularly puppies, so should not really be worried about unless it continues regularly into adulthood. We walk him in the local forest frequently where there is an abundance of horse, rabbit, fox, and cow dung. Not only does he occasionally try to eat it but will also roll in it… disgusting! Faeces can be very enticing to dogs. You might also like…. French Bulldogs are usually friendly, loyal and active pets — so it can be quite disturbing to you to see your beloved furry friend eating poop. Fortunately, this is fairly common behavior among all dog breeds and is usually easily corrected. While there is no single cause for coprophagia or eating poop , there are several factors that can contribute to it. Most are either behavioral or health related: Behavioral Reasons for Eating Poop Lack of mental stimulation or boredom: Dogs can develop this behavior if their days are filled with little to no stimulation. To combat this, be sure to provide plenty of play and regular walks. Parasites: Intestinal parasites can cause your french bulldog to experience nausea, pain and weakness, leading to this behavior. Your vet can check and treat your pet if they have parasites. Here are a few of the solutions you can use to combat this behavior: Clean up as soon as possible. Be sure to pick up after your pup as soon as you see them doing their business. Increase activity and obedience training. Giving your Frenchie plenty of stimulation will help keep them entertained and prevent eating poop. Consult your vet. Coprophagia can be a difficult behavior to train a dog out of, but the good news is that there are solutions available. With the proper solutions and patience, you can help stop your French Bulldog from eating poop and restore peace of mind. As always, be sure to consult your Vet to discuss any additional solutions and to make sure there are no underlying health conditions present. Related Info And Products:. What should I do if my French Bulldog eats poop? Home » What should I do if my French Bulldog eats poop? It is common enough to have its own name called coprophagy. Not all Frenchies will do this but some will. Medical Reasons Your French Bulldog eats poop. Enzyme Deficiency: Wild dogs were depending on eating whole prey for food which would provide them with additional digestive enzymes that just the ones they produce. Think pancreas. Digestive enzymes help break down nutrients in a way that they can be digested. If they are not getting enough nutrients they could turn around and eat their poo. Parasites Your Frenchie could have parasites. Parasites need food too to stay alive and may cause your French Bulldog to not be able to absorb nutrients. Increased appetite from conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or taking steroids may make your little one feel hungry 3. He may then turn to finding those nutrients in his feces. If your French Bulldog is losing weight he may not be getting enough nutrients from his food. A hungry dog will look for other sources of food. Learned behavior from mother. One of the reasons they might is they learn it from their mother. Some of their little ones just might catch on and make it a habit. Exploration Most puppies put everything in their mouths to learn more about their environment…including poop. Fortunately, I have noticed most Frenchies who do tend to grow out of it in a few weeks, months, and at the latest around one year old. Dogs are natural scavengers and unlike us it smells great to them. Some dogs eat their own poo to relieve stress. Attention seeking It may seem weird but some may think bad attention is better than no attention. They may do it for attention. Some dogs are concerned with being punished so they eat it to hide the evidence. How to stop your French Bulldog from eating poop. Keep it clean. Go outside with your Frenchie and pick up the poop as soon as he goes. Develop Play. Make sure they are safe and always supervise when playing with toys. See Frenchie toys! Add a good quality multivitamin with minerals. For a hydrochloric acid deficiency consider adding apple cider vinegar in their water or mixed with food at 1 tsp per 25lbs body weight. Check for parasites. Call your vet and ask for him to do a fecal sample. Deworm your Frenchie regularly as well. Keep your French Bulldogs digestive tract in consideration when eating poo. He may be deficient in something. I will tell you that each of mine has outgrown it. French Bulldog Puppies 3. You can also try probiotics or one of the several products which are designed to stop or restrict poop eating and help them digest food easier. Train Your Frenchie Training is key to addressing unwanted behaviors, and poop eating is no exception. In each and every case, it is vital to communicate with your Frenchie that this behavior is unacceptable. These will come in handy when you catch them eyeing that pile of poop. It would catch her off guard and she would move away. I did that every time so she would associate the sound with the eating of the poop. She no longer eats her poop outside, but if she occasionally poops in her crate, she may, but she does not do it all the time. Positive reinforcement is also very effective in reinforcing a desired behavior, so if your Frenchie stays away from their poop, give a reward such as treats and praise. With poop eating this is especially true, as the health of your furry friend is at stake: regular poop eating can lead to diarrhea and other issues. In addition to poop, your Frenchie might also find all sorts of dangerous things outside which could even be fatal when ingested. Wait for the moment they want to eat it and step in! If they leave the food right away, praise them and show how happy you are. So, keeping your Frenchie mentally and physically stimulated can help redirect their energy and prevent them from resorting to poop-eating. Provide your puppy with interactive toys, play with them regularly, and take them for daily walks to keep their minds engaged and their bodies active. Read our article on how much exercise French Bulldogs need to learn everything about the topic! Your vet or a certified dog behaviorist can provide further guidance and develop a tailored plan to address the issue. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to success. With your love, care, and a proactive approach, you can help your French Bulldog kick the poop-eating habit and lead a healthier, happier life. Frenchie puppies may eat their poop because of natural instincts, nutritional deficiencies, boredom or some kind of underlying health issue. How to get my French Bulldog to stop eating poop? The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. Reasons why your French Bulldog is eating poop While there are many reasons why your Frenchie might be eating poop, the good news is that there are also many solutions. Here are some common reasons French Bulldogs eat poop. This is often the case with puppies who are still growing and developing, as they have higher nutritional needs than adult dogs. If your French Bulldog is eating poop, talk to your veterinarian about switching him to higher quality food that is designed for growing puppies or for French Bulldogs with sensitive stomachs. You may also want to consider adding a supplement to his diet. French Bulldogs are high-energy dogs who need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. In that case, he may start looking for ways to entertain himself — even if that means eating poop. Wants attention In some cases, French Bulldogs may eat poop as a way of getting attention from their owners. If you think this is the reason your French Bulldog is eating poop, the solution is simple: give him more attention! Spend more time playing with him, taking him on more walks, and making sure he feels like a valued family member. Anxiety or stress French Bulldogs can be prone to anxiety and stress, which can lead to a number of different behavioral problems — including eating poop. If you think this may be the case, talk to your veterinarian about ways to help your French Bulldog relax and feel more comfortable. Parasites Parasites are a common cause of French Bulldogs eating poop. Since parasites take all the food your pup is eating and leave them with very little nutrition, they may start to eat their own poop in order to get the nutrients they need. If you think your dog may have parasites, take them to the vet for a check-up. Thyroid problems Thyroid problems can also lead French Bulldogs to eat poop. To hide the poop Your Frenchie may be trying to hide his poop from you by eating it. French Bulldogs are notoriously difficult to potty train , and some may eat their poop in an attempt to avoid getting into trouble. If you think this is the reason your French Bulldog is eating poop. In that case, the solution is to be consistent with your potty training efforts and to use positive reinforcement rather than punishment. You may also want to consider giving him smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. French Bulldogs may eat poop for a variety of reasons, most of which are not cause for alarm. Whatever the reason French Bulldogs eat poop, the important thing is to talk to your vet to rule out any underlying health problems and to find a solution that works for you and your pup. Does pineapple stop dogs from eating poop? There is some speculation that pineapple might help stop dogs from eating their own poop, but there is not much scientific evidence to support this claim. Some people believe that the enzymes in pineapple can help break down the fecal matter and make it less palatable to the dog. Should I worry about my French Bulldog eating poop? Yes, you should worry about your French Bulldog eating poop. When dogs eat poop, they can get sick and even die. The best way to prevent your dog from eating poop is to keep him away from it. If you see him start to eat it, stop him immediately. How do I get my French Bulldog to stop eating poop? There are a few things you can do to try and stop the behavior. These include changing their diet, providing more exercise and stimulation, and using an anti-anxiety medication or supplement. Exercise and stimulation Dogs who are bored or not getting enough exercise are more likely to eat poop. Take him on walks, play with him, and give him plenty of toys to keep him occupied. This can help to calm him down and may stop the behavior. Well-balanced and nutritional diet Dogs who eat a well-balanced and nutritional diet are less likely to eat poop. In that case, you may want to talk to your veterinarian about giving him a nutritional supplement. Vitamin B supplements are often recommended for dogs who eat poop. Use taste deterrent products There are a variety of taste deterrent products on the market that can make poop taste bad to dogs. These products usually contain ingredients like chili pepper or lemon juice, which can make the poop unappealing to your French Bulldog. Some dogs seem to dislike the taste of these products and will avoid eating stool that has been sprayed with them. This basic obedience command tells your dog to leave something alone. Repeat this process until your dog learns that he should leave the food alone. Remember only reward good behavior and never punish your dog for bad behavior. The best way to do this is to use a dog poop scooper. This can be caused by several different things, such as food intolerance, an infection, or parasites. They will be able to run some tests to determine the cause and recommend the best course of treatment. This will help to prevent them from getting to the stool before you have a chance to clean it up. Conclusion There are a number of different reasons why your French Bulldog might be eating poop. In most cases, the behavior can be stopped with some simple changes, such as switching to high-quality dog food or training your dog not to eat poop. However, in some cases, the behavior may be caused by a medical condition and will require veterinary treatment. They will be able to help you find a solution that works for both you and your dog.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for New York Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in New York? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in New York? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Florida Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Florida? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Florida? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

They Are Naturally Mouthy Golden Retrievers are a mouthy breed, to begin with, they are naturally inclined to pick up and hold anything and everything in their mouths. While it may seem like there is something wrong with your puppy to cause him or her to bite so much, rest assured, all puppies bite, not just Golden Retriever puppies. Play Behaviour When you see a litter of pups play together, they often nip and bite at one another. It is their way of socializing and initiating play. Your puppy will bite and nip at you during playtime with you because it is a natural behaviour to them. They Are Teething Many people associate puppy biting with teething, however when a puppy is teething they will resort to chewing and mouthing in order to relieve their pain. They may chew or mouth on your hands and fingers, but teething is not the cause of biting that every puppy owner experiences. Puppy biting is most often just play. To summarize, puppy biting is normal and should be expected as a puppy owner. In general, biting will naturally subside in Golden Retriever puppies around the age of months. This is around the time that their adult teeth have come in. Puppies at this age usually already know how to moderate their bite, and will not bite or nip at you as much as they did when they were younger. While biting anything and everything is normal behaviour to your puppy, it is not something that you want your puppy to continue to do. It is up to you to teach your puppy not to bite humans, especially children. Take a look at the common mistakes puppy owners often make, and learn to avoid them. Puppies who are excited bite more. Children often fall victim to the most puppy bites because they get very excited around puppies and this just gets the puppy going which results in biting. Any attention that you give your puppy after they bite you will seem like a reward to your puppy, and the biting will just continue. Yelling at your puppy, pushing them away, talking to your puppy, or even looking at them is giving them the attention that they want. Bite inhibition is when your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite. Puppies learn this skill when they are with their littermates, which is why they need to stay with them and their mother until they are 8 weeks old. Playing with their littermates teaches puppies that biting too hard hurts and will end playtime. The puppy then learns to bite softer. When your puppy comes home with you, it is up to you to teach your puppy how to control the force of their bite. Biting down on the thick fur coat of his mother or littermates is a lot different than biting down on human skin. By not teaching your puppy bite inhibition, you will risk your puppy turning into a dangerous adult. Puppy bites are a lot different than adult dog bites. Once your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite, eventually the bites become gentler, and in time, your puppy will learn to stop biting altogether. This is part of teaching your puppy bite inhibition. This is a way to mimic how puppies play together, when one puppy bites another puppy too hard, that puppy yelps in pain, and will walk away. In some cases, puppies could get even more worked up by the noise and keep on biting. This is when you need to walk away. When your puppy has calmed down, you can resume playing with your puppy. When your puppy bites you again, repeat the steps of yelping and walking away. Eventually, your puppy will learn to soften his bite, because biting too hard ends playtime. The following video discusses why puppies bite, how to teach bite inhibition and how to survive puppy biting. It is a good idea to have a few chew toys on hand to offer up as a distraction from your skin. Check out this list of the best teething toys for puppies. This will get your puppy to stop and focus on being obedient. A great way to solve boredom is by going for a walk with your puppy. How much exercise should you give your Golden Retriever puppy? A good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of exercise for every month that your puppy is alive. So a 3-month-old puppy should get 15 minutes of exercise a day, a 5-month-old puppy should get 25 minutes per day, and so on. This is in addition to and not instead of playtime. Bitter Apple Spray can also be used to prevent your puppy from nipping and biting at you. Before you interact with your puppy, spray it on your arms, legs, pant legs, or sleeves, anywhere that your puppy likes to nip at you. Once your puppy bites at you, he will get a bad taste in his mouth and will stop. Bitter Apple Spray may not work on all puppies, some may actually develop a taste for it. I know that when my Golden Retriever Ellie was a pup this stuff worked amazingly well, but as she got older she developed a taste for bitter things such as crab apples which are extremely sour and she once sucked on a vinegar packet that was lying on the ground! Reward Good Behaviour Every time your puppy stops biting and nipping at you, you need to see this as positive behaviour. Good behaviour should be rewarded so that your puppy learns that he did something good. Rewarding good behaviour with affection and praise is great, you can also use treats, or toys, sometimes the best reward for your puppy is just spending time with them. Be Patient and Consistent Owning a puppy requires a lot of patience! It is so easy to lose your patience at times, but you need to know that your puppy is learning what is right and wrong, and that takes time. It might not happen overnight, but as long as you remain consistent and patient, your pup will learn good behaviour. If your puppy is nipping at your pant legs or sleeves, chances are he is loving the tugging feeling and is actually already playing tug-of-war. Instead of using your clothing, redirect his attention to a rope toy. One thing to be careful of is being too rough with tug-of-war, especially when your puppy is going through his teething phase. A game of fetch offers your pup a distraction from biting, and Golden Retriever puppies naturally love to retrieve things. This is a great way to also teach your puppy to drop it, by offering a treat when your puppy drops the ball or rope toy. A well-socialized puppy will be less likely to exhibit any unwanted behaviours later on. Enrolling your pup in puppy kindergarten or arranging some play dates with other dogs who are friendly and vaccinated is a great way for your pup to learn social skills. Other dogs are sometimes the best teachers for a puppy because they will let your puppy know what is okay for play and what is not okay, in terms of biting and nipping. Always supervise your puppy while playing with other dogs. Yelling at your puppy will only make your puppy scared and confused as well as lose trust and respect for you. Common mistakes people make when their puppy is biting are pushing them away, clamping down on their mouths or spraying them in the face with water. All of these are a bad idea! Your puppy could see this behaviour as a form of play and continue biting and nipping at you even harder. If you remain calm and use a firm voice not yelling , your pup will see you as in charge. Puppies and dogs often exhibit the same behaviour as we do, if you get upset and start yelling, your puppy will just get even more excited. As unpleasant as puppy biting is, it is normal behaviour. Your puppy biting and nipping at you with a mouth full of shark teeth may seem aggressive, but it is most often just out of curiosity and play behaviour. Golden Retrievers are known for their calm and gentle demeanour, but there are rare instances where you may have an aggressive puppy on your hands. Puppies who have been taken away from their litter earlier than weeks, bad breeding, being abused, a chemical imbalance, and not being socialized are all reasons for aggression in puppies. Signs of an aggressive puppy include barking, growling, lunging at you or another dog, a stiff posture, and showing teeth. If you think your puppy is aggressive, it is important to work with a professional dog trainer or behaviourist in order to find out the reasons for aggression and work on correcting the behaviour before it gets worse. It is important to keep your calm and work with your puppy to teach him the important skill of bite inhibition, and to redirect his biting to more appropriate behaviour. Socializing your puppy, as well as rewarding good behaviour will all help to turn your puppy into a well-behaved dog. Have you tried any of the tips mentioned above? Do you have any other tips to stop Golden Retriever puppy biting? Share your thoughts and comments below, as well as any questions you may have. I would love to hear from you. Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. But much like other puppies, a Golden Retriever puppy has a tendency to chew and bite. So, how can you train your Golden Retriever puppy not to bite? Consistency is the key to teaching your Golden Retriever puppy not to bite. However, you have to train your dog to behave, and that includes keeping them from biting. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Get up and walk away from the dog. Leave the room if you can. Focus on something else for a bit. And believe me, a Golden Retriever puppy or not always wants your attention! Now, you may not see immediate results with this method, but it will work over time if you remain consistent. Sending your new puppy mixed signals will only confuse him or her. You can pet your dog to reward them for not getting mouthy with your hand or fingers while playing. It can take a while to get to this stage, so be patient. When, your dog gets through an entire play session without biting, that deserves some extra love. Now, you have to be careful not to give too much attention when your dog does bite. If your Golden Retriever reverts to biting out of excitement or nervousness, immediately stop giving them attention. Turn away and ignore your dog like what you did before. Hopefully, they will get the message more quickly, so you can go back to playing without them biting. Use a firm tone rather than a cute tone you might use when praising your dog. When you say no, use physical signals to get your Golden Retriever to stop. Take your hand out of their mouth and move it out of reach. Make sure anyone who trains the dog uses the same firm tone. Tips to stop golden retriever pups from biting. Watch for Patterns Another way you can train your Golden Retriever puppy to stop biting is to watch for patterns. See if your dog tends to bite more at certain times of day, in the same room, or while playing with a particular toy. When your dog does bite, you can use other methods to get them to stop immediately. But after the fact, write down the date, time, and situation. If multiple people are training your dog, you should also log who your dog tends to bite. That way, you can see if there are patterns. Use Bitter Spray When you start training your Golden Retriever puppy, you may want to try using a bitter spray on your hands. Try this bitter spray Amazon , it works on your hands to stop chewing and biting and it also works on other things around the house that a new puppy might want to chew on like houseplants, furniture, etc. This can be an easy way to get your dog not to bite you. Now, this can be difficult if your dog bites other areas of your body, but it can help. You might get quicker results than if you only stuck to ignoring your dog. Have Lots of Toys Another excellent way to train your Golden Retriever to stop biting you is to use toys. You should be careful and use toys when your dog exhibits good behavior. But you can give your dog chew toys so that they have something they can bite. There is even a teething ring for dogs Amazon that you keep in the freezer and it provides something cool to chew on to help ease the pain during this period of your puppies life. Then, your dog will want to behave well when they play with you. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! You can have a bag of small treats in your pocket that you use when playing with your dog. Whenever they go a long time without biting, you can give them a treat. You can also use the treats to distract your dog. If you know their patterns and when they usually bite, you can preempt that with a treat. Then, your dog can chew on the food rather than your hand. There are tons of treats out there, so go with something small. Try to avoid using treats as a bribe, and focus on making them a reward. That way, your dog can look forward to a treat for their good habits. Start As Soon as Possible Training your Golden Retriever puppy not to bite should start as soon as you bring your puppy home. If you wait until your dog gets into the habit of biting, it will be hard to break. You may still need to use various ways to train your dog, but it should be easier. Starting when your puppy is super young can also help them with other areas of their life. If you can train them not to bite, you will know how they learn best, which will help you train them for other things. It will also be harder if you use one method while your spouse uses another method. Everyone in your household should decide on how and when to train your Golden Retriever puppy. Use the same toys or treats, train your dog simultaneously, or use the same speaking tone. That way, your dog can learn from everyone rather than a single trainer. Then, you all can enjoy your Golden Retriever, and they can develop good habits. Final Thoughts Training a Golden Retriever to stop biting can take some time. You have to figure out when your dog bites and what triggers the biting. Then, you have to determine how your dog learns best and use that method to train your puppy. But once you find the perfect tool, your dog will learn to stop biting. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Wish your golden retriever puppy would stop biting so much? Puppy nipping is one of the most frustrating things about raising a new puppy—their teeth are razor-sharp, it hurts when they bite, and they can ruin your clothes! But why do puppies bite so much? Puppies bite to learn acquired bite inhibition, or ABI. What exactly is ABI? He might leap up and bite you because you hurt him and scared him. But the important thing is this: how hard will they bite? This is where ABI comes in. So ABI is really important. Now the question is, how do they learn it? The only way for puppies to learn ABI is to bite, and bite often. The best teachers are other dogs. Next time they bite a little less hard and playtime continues. This is how they learn ABI. Obviously, it takes a lot of repetition of this scenario to happen for a puppy to learn not to bite so hard, but this is essentially how it works out. Yes, you will need to help teach your puppy ABI. You can do this two ways: Set up puppy playdates and take them to puppy kindergarten so other puppies can teach them ABI. You actually want them to bite a little bit and learn to control how hard they bite. That being said, letting them go on a biting rampage is not helping the situation, so here are five tips to help you stop your puppy from biting so much: 1. Socialize your puppy Other dogs are the best teachers of ABI so make sure to get your puppy in kindergarten and set up playdates with dogs that you know are vaccinated. Remove yourself from the situation Puppies can often be over-stimulated or over-tired. One thing we did with our puppy, Oliver, when he got in these moods was to go sit at our high-top table in the kitchen and ignore him until he calmed down or distracted himself with a chew toy. Exercise your puppy A tired puppy is a good puppy. Young puppies have weak jaws, so if they had dull teeth, a bite from them would be no big deal. Most adult golden retrievers bite out of fear and a professional can help you properly handle it. Puppy Biting vs. Chewing Puppy biting or nipping is when a dog purposefully bites you. As we already talked about, they need to do this to learn ABI. Puppy chewing, on the other hand, is when puppies chew on things to relieve the pressure in their mouths from their adult teeth coming in. Since puppies bite and chew for different reasons, you need to handle these problems differently. Mentally wear them by out by training them, going for long walks and letting them sniff around, and giving them puzzle toys or frozen kongs. Remember that a tired puppy is a good puppy. A: It can take up to six weeks or more for your puppy to learn ABI and what is appropriate to bite or not. If it takes longer than six weeks, just remember to be consistent with the steps to stop it and have faith that it will slow down soon. Q: Is puppy biting an act of aggression? A: Most puppy biting is a form of play. It helps them learn ABI. If you think your puppy is biting out of aggression, then you should talk to a professional. Q: Why are puppy teeth so sharp? Q: What is ABI? A: ABI is acquired bite inhibition, or the natural ability for a dog to not bite so hard. Q: Do all puppies bite? A: Yes! Instead, they need to learn to control their bite force, then learn to bite less. Have any questions about puppy biting? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. You are bound to want to know when your biting puppy will grow out of this phase and how you can speed that process up. Biting, as you will have discovered is usually accompanied by lots of noise! Why do puppies bite? So why do puppies bite? My puppy is biting hard Puppies do bite hard and it does hurt. But I want to reassure you that even at 8 weeks old, your puppy has learned to moderate his bite in play. Puppies have powerful jaws designed to tear through flesh and crush bones. Those of you who feed your puppy a raw diet will know that even an 8 week old puppy from a medium sized breed can crush bones the size of your little finger. He is deliberately attempting to be gentle. Puppy Biting — Bite inhibition This ability, that your puppy has, to moderate the power of his jaws in play, is called bite inhibition. It is something that his mother started to teach him when he was just a few weeks old. And now it is your turn to take over and complete the training process. Growling and Puppy biting One thing that often worries people who have a new puppy in the family, is the growling that accompanies puppy biting. It sounds horrific. Great snarls and snaps accompany the biting and the puppy can appear quite demonic as he grabs onto your skin, or clothes. Tugging away with all the strength he can muster. Ninety nine times out of a hundred this is completely normal play biting. Is my puppy biting aggressive? You cannot determine whether or not a puppy is biting aggressively by how hard he bites or by the volume of the noise he makes. Play biting puppies bite hard and growl fiercely. Some puppies do occasionally draw blood. But these are not normally savage or crushing bites and the puppy is clearly enjoying himself. Fierce but fun! The play biting puppy will launch himself at the target of his bite. Whether it is your slippers or your fingers, with equal tail-wagging enthusiasm, hanging on grimly and grabbing repeatedly when the item is removed from him. All this, shocking though it may seem, is normal, and is not a sign that your puppy is going to be an aggressive dog! In fact some of the gentlest and most amiable breeds the labrador for example are the worst and fiercest play biters. The puppy that is a cause for concern is the puppy that is frightened. Because although puppies rarely bite through aggression, the nervous puppy may become aggressive as he matures Is my puppy afraid? A scared puppy may bite and scared puppies can grow into scared adult dogs so this is something you need to address quickly. You will know that your puppy is scared because he will try to avoid whatever it is he is scared of. A really frightened puppy will sometimes give off a distinctive musky smell. This hiding, and retreating, and the scared smell are warning signs that you have scared your puppy badly, or purchased a poorly socialised puppy. In this situation you need to get specialist help right away. Your vet should be able to advise you. For the vast majority of puppy owners then, biting is normal puppy behavior. Will my puppy biting stop naturally? To some extent biting is a phase caused by natural puppy playfulness and teething. Some puppies do stop biting with very little input from their family. Which is great. You may feel he should have grown out of it by now. We can physically prevent puppies from biting and we can train puppies not to bite. Both of these are good strategies. Or when children are getting upset, or visitors are winding your puppy up. Prevention usually involves interrupting the biting behavior, then redirecting the puppy into an alternative and more acceptable behavior, such as chewing on a toy. Or, it may involve temporarily separating him from his playmates. Interrupting the puppy biting In mild cases you may simply be able to put a toy in your biting puppy's mouth and get him tugging on that instead of on your fingers. If you are on the floor with the puppy stand up. And if you are standing up, turn and walk away from the puppy. This is where dog gates come in very handy with small puppies. A standard baby gate works fine for most breeds of dog. Managing the puppy You may have to pick up your biting puppy to remove him from the scene if he is biting your children for example, rather than you If he bites your hands and clothes as you try to restrain him, put him on the other side of a barrier or in his crate or puppy playpen for a short while. Although the puppy does learn from them, these are useful management techniques to enable you to control the situation. They help you to keep your puppy calm, and prevent the biting escalating through over excitement. Over-excited puppies Puppy play biting is directly linked to excitement. The more excited your puppy gets, the more and the harder he will bite. And the harder it will be to interrupt and distract him. Rough play excites puppies and noisy play does too. Children tend to squeal when they play and get very physical with puppies. One of the first rules they need to learn when playing with dogs, especially big dogs, is to stand up and stand still when the game gets too much. Limit such play and call a halt to it if your puppy is biting. With medium to large breed dogs, physical rough and tumble play is not a great idea. It can lead to dogs bowling people over or humping them, neither of which is very pleasant. Stopping play when it gets rough is a good management strategy and it is a form of training too. Over time, your puppy learns that biting and rough play loses him his playmates and that people simply leave if he is being mean. When do puppies stop biting? Many puppies have stopped biting completely by six months of age and biting is usually subsiding by the time that the puppy is heading towards five months old. This is if the puppy has been managed appropriately If people have been exciting him, or rewarding him for attention seeking behavior then biting can persist And it can be much more of a problem in bigger stronger puppies than in little ones. Training Puppies Not To Bite The idea of this exercise is to teach a puppy to accept being stroked and handled in any way, without touching us with his teeth. The event marker is a distinctive sound. Even around his mouth, without him making any attempt to bite you. You can also make it easier for him by starting this training when he is calm and not distracted. But for now, keep things simple. It can be a good way of getting the training started so that you have chance to say YES and give the puppy the opportunity to learn what you want him to do. Over the next few sessions, you can work on getting your hand closer and closer to the puppy. Until you are brushing the sides of his face without him making any attempt to mouth or bite at you Progress to touching and holding his collar, stroking his ears, grooming him, examining his paws and so on, all the time rewarding him for the correct behavior. Anytime the mouthing returns, back up to a point where he can succeed and move forward more slowly again Bite Inhibition Training Some experts feel that puppies should be allowed to mouth and even bite gently for a week or two before being prevented from biting altogether. Simply follow the instructions for managing your puppy above when he bites hard. But allow him to mouth you when he bites gently without much pressure. This is a great way to teach a dog excellent control over his mouth. After a couple of weeks of this, you can progress to the training exercise I outlined in the previous section. Older puppies that bite in play have often learned that this gets them a lot of attention. They have discovered that people squeal and shout and get quite cross. Sometimes these people push and shove the dog around which young dogs quite enjoy when they are playing. For these dogs it is important that you stop all physical play, with all family members If a puppy is biting hard at your hands when you try to interrupt his game. Or an older puppy is getting out of hand biting at clothing, you need to put your puppy on a harness and house-line a short trailing leash. This will enable you to control your puppy, and take him to a calming place, without handling him. You can just pick up the end of the line and lead him away. Older biting puppies are often bright and bored. And the best approach to avoiding future episodes of bad behavior is a structured programme of training and interesting activities. A professional dog trainer using modern positive training methods will be able to help you with these. Summary So now you know some tips on how to stop your puppy from biting. The first few weeks can be tough with a determined biter in the house, but you will get through this and come out the other side. A few months from now, this difficult period will be a distant memory In the meantime, focus on keeping your biting puppy calm, avoiding too much rough play, and redirecting his biting onto appropriate toys and activities. Spend some time on the training exercise set out above. Are you a proud new golden retriever puppy parent or considering getting a furry friend? While puppies are adorable and full of energy, they can also be a handful, especially when it comes to biting. This article will cover practical strategies to manage puppy biting and help you and your pup develop a solid and loving relationship. Thus biting is natural. Their bites will become softer as they practice and learn to manage their bite strength. They will eventually stop biting entirely. While biting is a natural part of the learning process, it is essential to train your puppy not to bite excessively. Here are a few tips to get you started: Providing Chew Toys for Redirecting Biting Behavior Providing chew toys is an excellent approach to help your puppy stop biting. When your puppy begins to bite you, remove your hand or foot and replace it with a chew toy. This teaches them that biting is acceptable, but only when done with toys, not people. It is essential to keep an eye on your puppy when they play with chew toys to ensure they do not consume anything toxic. By exposing your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments in a controlled and positive manner, you can help them develop proper social skills and reduce biting tendencies. Socialization helps puppies learn appropriate bite inhibition and establishes boundaries for acceptable behavior during interactions. Through well-planned socialization experiences, you can guide your puppy towards becoming a well-behaved and gentle companion. Employing the Time-Out Strategy for Persistent Biting Use the time-out strategy when other methods fail to stop your puppy from biting. If your puppy continues to bite, place him on a time-out for 30 seconds before allowing him to return to play. This teaches your puppy that biting is unacceptable and will result in a loss of playtime or attention. Again, use a gentle tone and avoid shouting or scolding your puppy. When your puppy plays gently with their toys instead of biting you, shower them with praise and perhaps even a tasty gift! This teaches your puppy that good behavior leads to beautiful things. Instead, concentrate on encouraging appropriate behavior and redirecting any inappropriate biting. Your puppy will learn to control their biting and play in a friendly and safe manner with time, patience, and positive reinforcement. This entails repeating the same commands, techniques, and rewards each time you train. When you do this, your puppy learns what is expected of them and how to get rewarded. On the other hand, if you are inconsistent, your puppy may get confused and unsure of what they need to do to please you. This can make training more difficult and frustrating for you and your puppy. So, strive to be consistent in your training. However, they can get nippy during their fun exploration of the world around them. The good news is that this is a natural habit for pups, and there are ways to deal with it. Puppies prefer to bite to initiate play, learn more about their surroundings, and adjust their bite pressure, especially when they are teething. These actions are part of how they play, interact, and learn about their environment. First, however, puppies must be taught how to control their biting pressure and redirect their biting to appropriate toys and chew objects, which we will discuss later. Puppy bites, for example, can become more painful and even harmful as they increase in size. Additionally, it might lead to destructive chewing if you do not divert their biting habit to appropriate chew items. As a result, it is critical to address this habit early on through regular teaching and positive reinforcement. Understand what motivates them and what makes them more likely to engage in biting. Adjust your training methods: Not all puppies respond to the same training techniques. Some may respond better to positive reinforcement, while others may require more redirection and distraction. Consider their energy levels: Golden Retrievers are known for their energy and enthusiasm. Be patient and consistent: Training takes time, and each puppy learns at their own pace. Be patient with your puppy and provide consistent guidance. Remember, every Golden Retriever puppy is an individual, and what works for one may not work for another. With a customized approach, you can effectively address biting behavior and set your unique puppy on the path to becoming a well-behaved and happy companion. So, most puppies begin to bite and mouth less frequently when they are 8 to 10 months old. However, this varies greatly depending on the individual pup. Some may stop sooner, while others may take a little longer. Golden retrievers, for example, love using their tongues. At the same time, herding dogs such as border collies or corgis may continue to nip at ankles as they age. Just keep working with your pet and providing the guidance they require to create positive habits! Conclusion As you begin the joyful road of raising your Golden Retriever puppy, keep in mind that training and socialization are essential for producing a happy and well-behaved dog. You can teach your puppy what is expected of them and create healthy behaviors that will last a lifetime using consistent and positive reinforcement techniques. Remember that each puppy is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. You will be rewarded with a devoted and well-behaved companion if you are patient and committed to the training process. Remember to give your puppy enough exercise and mental stimulation and to continuously reward positive behavior. You can help your puppy grow into a happy and healthy adult dog who will provide you happiness for many years by doing so. By the time your puppy reaches around three months of age, they should start to develop bite inhibition and learn to control the force of their bites during play. As you continue to interact and train with your puppy, you can gradually increase your sensitivity to the level of bites you find acceptable. By the age of four or five months, their play bites should no longer exert any force. Can I use physical punishment to stop my puppy from biting? Certainly not! To stop a puppy from biting, never use physical punishment. It is not only ineffective, but it can also be harmful and cause long-term behavioral issues. Instead, train your puppy using positive reinforcement techniques, including redirection, time-outs, and excellent rewarding behavior. What can I do? Puppies frequently nip and bite while playing with other dogs, but teaching them to control their bite force is essential. My puppy is teething. What can I do to stop them from biting? Teething is a normal developmental stage for puppies , and they naturally want to chew and bite things. Similar to what we discussed earlier. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Read the full disclosure here. Tasty finger! Your golden retriever puppy is as friendly as can be — great with kids, respectful of other dogs, and not overly attentive to your cat. Yes, golden retrievers are known for their good-natured demeanor, but they are still dogs — not so very far removed from their wild cousins, and they can be unpredictable when faced with stressful, disturbing, or frightening situations. One of our jobs as responsible dog owners, of course, is to keep our dogs safe, but we may not always be able to protect them, and we may not always be able to prevent them from biting through fear or when in pain. What is Bite Inhibition? Puppies begin learning this from their mother and siblings as soon as they start to tumble around with each other in play. If they bite too hard, they are scolded by their mother or alerted with a yelp from their siblings. Eventually, they learn how hard is too hard, and they use their teeth more gently in play. Human Sensitive or Advanced Bite Inhibition By the time your puppy moves into your home, they will have been using their bite inhibition skills for weeks. Your puppy needs to learn that human beings are fragile and should be treated with care. There are many professional trainers who recommend that you simply train your puppy not to bite. This seems like a practical course of action, and it does work — in the short term. Teaching a puppy not to bite will give you quick results, but it may mean they never learn how much force is safe to use on people when they are forced to bite in an emergency. So if they do eventually bite, they will know to hold back the pressure safely and will not cause anywhere near as much pain or damage as they otherwise might. Why is Bite Inhibition Important? Believe it or not, even the most gentle dog that has been trained from a young age never to bite, can react to certain triggers. Those triggers are fear and pain. Consider these situations: Your dog has been suffering from chronic ear infections and hates to have his ears handled. The neighbor stops by with her toddler, who immediately runs to your dog and fondles his sensitive ears roughly. What will he do? You and your dog are walking down the road like you do every morning when out of nowhere comes a huge dog who attacks your dog without thinking twice. You manage to pull your dog away, but in the process, your frightened dog bites your arm. Your sweet golden retriever has gotten themself tangled in some barbed wire while hiking. As you loosen the wire from her skin and fur, she snaps at you, biting your hand. You may never experience any of these situations. By teaching bite inhibition while your puppy is young, you will be far safer and ready for any of these situations should they occur. Teaching Advanced Bite Inhibition Following is a general guide to the bite inhibition skills your puppy learns and when, as well as where you should aim for their skills to be at certain ages. She will start the puppies off by teaching them how rough is too rough during nursing and play. These lessons begin when the puppies start nursing day 1 and continue until the day you pick your puppy up from the breeder. This works for some puppies, but for others, it just seems to arouse the pup and make matters worse. You will have to experiment to find out what works for you and your pup. You should withdraw all of your attention from your puppy for very hard bites. Do not over-correct your puppy so they become afraid of biting. After your puppy has calmed down, use a chew toy as a reward and let them chew it in your lap or lying by your side. This teaches you puppy that there are other ways to keep their mouths and teeth busy. By four or five months, all force behind play bites should be eliminated. Kids tend to play rough with puppies, and puppies will get rough right back. Your puppy needs to know that every human being is sensitive to their bites, not just you. It is a process that sometimes lasts months, depending on your puppy. Be prepared for this, and remember that long-term results in your adult dog are more important than curtailing puppy bites as painful as they may be. Supervise your puppy around children — If you have young children at home, you will have to think carefully about how you will protect them and your puppy. Little puppy teeth can cause a lot of pain, especially when your pup is still learning to control those urges. Young children can also cause a lot of pain to small puppies. Always supervise very carefully when your pup and children are together. A tired puppy is a happy puppy — It will be much easier to teach bite inhibition if your puppy is not bouncing off the walls. Make sure they get enough exercise every day. Not only will this help with training, but it will also help prevent all kinds of other destructive behavior. Conclusion Teaching bite inhibition to your golden retriever puppy is a gift you give to your pup that will last forever.

We have answers. What are Labrador Retriever puppies for sale near Temecula like? A Labrador Retriever is an incredibly popular breed of dog with a reputation for being friendly, active, outgoing, loyal, and smart. They make wonderful companions, and are kind and gentle with children. They love to please their owners and are easy to train with positive reinforcement. Labs have a smooth, short coat that may be black, yellow, or chocolate in color, with feathering on the legs and tail. They are medium-large in size and generally weigh about lbs for males and lbs for females. How can I manage allergies with Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Temecula? Managing allergies with Labrador Retrievers is possible through various steps. Ensure the breeds are kept in a healthy environment, free from allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. Bathe your dog regularly and brush its fur frequently to reduce the amount of allergens that accumulate on them. Choose a non-irritating shampoo with minimal fragrances and minimal allergenic ingredients. Additionally, regular vacuuming and wiping down surfaces can help reduce allergens. Feed your dog a healthy diet to keep the immune system healthy and better able to deal with potential allergens. Do Temecula Labrador Retriever puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Labrador Retrievers do indeed have special dietary needs depending on their age, breed, and medical history. Most Labradors need an average of 1, to 1, calories per day with the larger breed requiring slightly more. Labradors are known to be prone to obesity and often need a diet that includes suitable physical exercise to maintain a healthy weight. A quality diet specifically formulated for large breed dogs is a good choice for Labradors. The diet should include plenty of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and beneficial fatty acids in order to maintain their active lifestyle. Am I ready to adopt Labrador Retriever puppies in Temecula? Preparing your home for a new Labrador Retriever should include providing them with their own space, such as a crate or puppy-proof room, stocking up on essential supplies, and introducing your pet to your family. First, consider investing in a crate that's large enough for your Labrador Retriever to stand, turn around, and relax comfortably. This can provide them with a sense of security in their new environment. Secondly, make sure to pick up essential items such as bowls for food and water, a leash and collar, toys, and some puppy-friendly treats. How fast do Labrador Retrievers for sale in Temecula grow? It's impossible to know exactly how big your Labrador Retriever puppy will become, since its growth rate and size are influenced by several different factors including diet, exercise, and genetics. Generally speaking, Labrador Retrievers tend to be medium-large sized dogs, weighing between lbs and standing .Males tend to be slightly larger than females. However, it's important to remember that even within the same breed, individuals can display a lot of variability in size and growth rate as they mature. Do Labrador Retriever puppies near Temecula like to swim? Labrador Retrievers are an active breed and enjoy swimming. Many Labradors love taking a dip in the pool or lake for exercise and pleasure. Labradors can be naturally adept swimmers due to their webbed toes and otter-like tail. In addition, this breed is legendary for its love of water and retrieving things from the water. Many Labradors have even earned high honors in dockside retriever competitions. So while not all Labradors enjoy swimming, overall it's true to say that this breed does indeed love the water. Are Labrador Retrievers in Temecula good with kids? Labrador Retrievers are definitely a great choice when it comes to which dog breed to get if you have kids or plan to have them. Labradors are known for being gentle with children and for their trusting and friendly nature they love to be petted and enjoy spending time with their owners, especially children. And, their size also makes them great for the family big enough to deter any unwanted visitors, yet gentle enough that kids feel secure around them. Are Temecula Labrador Retrievers for sale considered smart dogs? Yes, Labrador Retrievers are considered smart dogs. These friendly and energetic dogs often top the list of smartest breeds; they learn commands quickly and can follow complex instructions. Because of their intelligence and eagerness to please, Labradors have been popular in many areas, including police work, search and rescue, and serving as seeing-eye dogs for the visually impaired. Labradors are smart enough to respond to commands and learn tricks, but they also have a mischievous side that means they need to stay engaged and entertained to stay out of trouble. Can you provide a foster home or forever home to a pet in need? Heed the call to make a difference by opening your heart and your home, today! Please register or re-register now. If you have already registered your Ralphs' card, please note that our organization number has changed. Our new organization number is RV.Click here to register your Ralph's Rewards card. If you are making a donation to RFSC, please check to see if your employer might match it. If your company matches donations, please let us know and we will include their name here. She takes special orders and can include the customers own personal treasures on the birdhouses. We are a full-service rescue, with dogs coming to us from all over the Southern California area for foster care services. RFSC not only provides care for dogs while they are waiting for adoption, but we provide follow-up assistance for the life of the dog. If for any reason a family can not keep a dog, the dog is brought back to the organization for placement. We have volunteers that perform home visits before each adoption. We accept Goldens and Labs of all ages, including seniors and those with special needs. All dogs are spayed and neutered and updated on vaccinations if not already done by the owner. Dogs with special medical needs are further evaluated by our veterinarian for treatment. Your donations are always appreciated and help us to continue to care for these special dogs. Your tax-deductible donations are appreciated!

Breeds The link has been copied! Brown poodles are a type of poodle, which is a breed of dog that originated in Germany. The poodle breed was originally bred as a water retriever, and their unique coats were trimmed in specific ways to make them more efficient swimmers. Today, poodles are known for their intelligence, trainability, and hypoallergenic coats. Brown poodles can come in a variety of shades, ranging from light tan to dark chocolate. Their curly fur can be left long or trimmed short, depending on the owner's preference. In addition to their distinctive coat, brown poodles are known for their expressive eyes, which are often described as "soulful. One of the main advantages of owning a brown poodle is their hypoallergenic coat. Because they do not shed like other breeds of dogs, they are less likely to trigger allergies in people who are sensitive to pet dander. This makes them a popular choice for families with children or anyone with allergies. However, it's worth noting that no dog is completely hypoallergenic, and some people may still experience symptoms despite owning a poodle. In addition to being hypoallergenic, brown poodles are also known for their intelligence and trainability. They are often used as service dogs, assisting people with disabilities or medical conditions. Poodles are quick learners and are able to perform a wide range of tasks, including retrieving objects, opening doors, and alerting their owners to potential hazards. They are also highly adaptable and can live in a variety of environments, from small apartments to large houses with yards. Because of their intelligence and trainability, brown poodles excel in dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions. They are also known for their playful personalities and love to engage in games and activities with their owners. However, it's important to note that brown poodles, like all dogs, require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. When it comes to grooming, brown poodles require regular attention to keep their coats in good condition. They should be brushed regularly to prevent matting, and their fur should be trimmed every six to eight weeks to maintain their distinctive appearance. Poodles also require regular dental care, including brushing their teeth and providing dental chews, to prevent dental problems. In terms of health, brown poodles are generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, like all dogs, they are prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. It's important to choose a reputable breeder and to schedule regular check-ups with a veterinarian to ensure your brown poodle stays healthy. But always make sure to keep track of your pup, especially during training. You can use a Fi Smart Dog Collar to watch their location and keep track of daily exercise. Characteristics of the Brown Poodle Hypoallergenic coat: Brown poodles have a curly or corded coat that sheds very little, making them a great choice for people with allergies or sensitivities to pet dander. Intelligence: Poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds and are known for their problem-solving abilities, trainability, and ability to learn new commands quickly especially using positive reinforcement techniques. Trainability: Brown poodles are highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions. They are quick learners and enjoy learning new tricks and commands. Playfulness: Brown poodles have a playful and energetic personality and enjoy playing with puzzle toys and engaging in activities with their owners. Affectionate: Poodles are known for their loyalty and love to be around their owners. They make great companion animals and are often referred to as "velcro dogs" because they like to be close to their owners at all times. Regal appearance: Brown poodles have a distinctive appearance with their curly or corded coat, long ears, and expressive eyes. They have a regal and elegant appearance that makes them stand out from other breeds. Adaptability: Brown poodles can live in a variety of environments, from small apartments to large houses with yards. They are adaptable and can adjust to their surroundings as long as they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation. Health: Brown poodles are generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Overall, brown poodles are a versatile and intelligent breed that make great pets for a wide range of people. Their hypoallergenic coat, trainability, playfulness, and affectionate nature make them a popular choice for families, individuals with disabilities, and anyone looking for a loyal companion. Common Health Issues of the Poodle Brown poodles are generally a healthy breed of dog, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. It's important for owners to be aware of these potential health problems and to take steps to prevent or manage them as needed. Here are some of the most common health issues that can affect brown poodles: Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a common condition in many breeds of dogs, including poodles. It occurs when the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain. Symptoms of hip dysplasia include lameness, difficulty getting up or climbing stairs, and decreased activity level. Hip dysplasia is often diagnosed through X-rays and can be managed through medication, weight management, and exercise. Eye problems: Poodles are prone to several eye conditions, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy PRA , and glaucoma. Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, while PRA is a degenerative disease that leads to vision loss. Glaucoma is a condition in which the pressure in the eye increases, leading to damage to the optic nerve. Symptoms of eye problems in poodles can include redness, discharge, squinting, and vision loss. Treatment options vary depending on the specific condition and may include medication, surgery, or management of symptoms. Skin allergies: Poodles can develop skin allergies due to a variety of factors, including food, environmental allergens, and flea bites. Symptoms of skin allergies can include itching, scratching, hair loss, and skin infections. Treatment options may include medication, specialized diets, and management of environmental factors. Dental problems: Poodles are prone to dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and tartar buildup. These issues can lead to pain, tooth loss, and infections in the mouth. Regular dental care, including brushing the teeth and providing dental chews or toys, can help prevent dental problems in brown poodles. Addison's disease: Addison's disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands don't produce enough hormones, leading to a range of symptoms including lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Addison's disease is treatable with medication, but it can be a serious condition if left untreated. Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can cause seizures in dogs. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include shaking, twitching, and loss of consciousness. Treatment options include medication to manage the seizures. Bloat: Bloat is a serious condition that can occur in large, deep-chested dogs like poodles. It occurs when the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow to the organs and leading to shock and potentially death. Symptoms of bloat include vomiting, distended abdomen, and lethargy. Treatment for bloat requires emergency medical attention, including surgery to untwist the stomach. Ear infections: Poodles are prone to ear infections due to their long, floppy ears. Symptoms of ear infections can include itching, redness, discharge, and odor. Treatment options may include medication and regular cleaning of the ears. In addition to these common health issues, brown poodles may also be prone to certain genetic conditions, including von Willebrand's disease a bleeding disorder , sebaceous adenitis a skin disorder , and immune-mediated hemolytic anemia a condition in which the immune system attacks the red blood cells. It's important for owners to work with a reputable breeder and to schedule regular check-ups with a veterinarian to monitor their brown poodle's health and catch any potential issues early. The Personality of the Brown Poodle Brown poodles are known for their intelligence, affectionate nature, and energetic personality. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions. Here are some of the key personality traits that are commonly associated with brown poodles: Intelligent: Poodles are considered to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds, and brown poodles are no exception. They are quick learners and can be trained to perform a wide range of tasks and commands. This intelligence also makes them highly adaptable and able to thrive in a variety of environments. Affectionate: Brown poodles are known for their loving and affectionate nature. They enjoy spending time with their owners and thrive on attention and praise. They make great family pets and are especially good with children. Energetic: Brown poodles are highly energetic dogs and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy playing games, going for walks, and engaging in other activities that allow them to use their intelligence and energy. Protective: While brown poodles are generally friendly and outgoing, they can also be protective of their owners and their home. They are known to bark at strangers and may take on a more guard dog-like role if they perceive a threat. Playful: Brown poodles have a playful and sometimes silly personality that endears them to many owners. They enjoy games and toys, and are known to be quite entertaining and fun-loving. Independent: Despite their affectionate nature, brown poodles can also be independent and self-sufficient. They don't require constant attention and are capable of entertaining themselves for short periods of time. Social: Brown poodles are social animals and enjoy being around other dogs and people. They do best in homes where they have regular opportunities for socialization and interaction with others. Overall, brown poodles are an intelligent, affectionate, and energetic breed of dog with a range of personality traits that make them a great choice for many owners. With proper training and socialization, they can be excellent family pets and companions. Conclusion Brown poodles are a versatile breed of dog that can thrive in a variety of environments and situations. They are known for their intelligence and trainability, making them a popular choice for obedience and agility competitions. At the same time, their affectionate nature and playful personality make them excellent family pets and companions. One of the most notable characteristics of brown poodles is their intelligence. They are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds and can learn commands and tricks quickly. This makes them well-suited to a variety of activities, from obedience competitions to therapy work. They are also highly adaptable and can adjust to different living environments, whether that's a busy city apartment or a spacious country home. In addition to their intelligence, brown poodles are also known for their affectionate nature. They thrive on attention and love to be around their owners. They are particularly good with children and can make great playmates for kids. They are also protective of their family, which can make them good watch dogs. Despite their affectionate nature, brown poodles are also highly energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy activities like walking, hiking, and playing games. They can be trained to run agility courses or participate in other sports that allow them to use their energy and intelligence. One of the challenges of owning a brown poodle, like any breed of dog, is managing their health. Brown poodles are prone to certain health conditions, such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and skin allergies. It's important for owners to work closely with their veterinarian to monitor their dog's health and address any issues promptly. With proper care and attention, brown poodles can live long and healthy lives. Brown poodles are a wonderful breed of dog that offer a range of benefits to their owners. They are intelligent, affectionate, and energetic, making them well-suited to a variety of living situations. While they may have some health concerns to be aware of, their many positive attributes make them a popular choice for many families and individuals. Whether you're looking for a loyal companion, a sports partner, or a therapy dog, a brown poodle may be the perfect addition to your home. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. They thrive on human interaction and love to be involved in everything their family is doing. Miniature Poodles are quick learners and excel at obedience training. Very eager to please their people, they are a great choice for first-time dog owners. Mini Poodles are usually good with other dogs and children, but they can be a little bit reserved around strangers. With proper socialization from a young age, your Mini Poodle puppy will learn to interact well with people outside of their immediate family. Expect your new for-ever family member to have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise. They need an outdoor walk every day to keep calm and centered. Check out this best-selling dog leash with a comfortable handle! While walks are a must, the Mini Poodle is not suited to be an outdoor dog. This breed has a long history as a circus dog, so this dog is a favorite choice for owners who want an athletic puppy who is open to learning tricks. Some Mini Poodles are territorial and highly excitable, but patient and consistent training can usually modify this behavior. For all of these reasons, finding homes for our Mini Poodle Puppies for sale is never challenging. Minatare Poodle Health Considerations The average life span of the miniature poodle is 13 — 15 years. Use ear cleaner wipes and eye wipes regularly to remove crust or discharge. All breeds of dogs should be brought in for regular vet checkups. Miniature Poodle Coat The Mini Poodle has a hypoallergenic coat which is excellent for allergy sufferers. Matting eventually causes skin irritation. If your Poodle has a long coat, you should brush out your Poodle every day. Check out this popular dog slicker brush and detangling comb that is perfect for your Mini Poodle. While Miniature Poodles are a fairly low-shedding dog breed, they still need coat care. Many Poodle owners opt for a short cut or trim to minimize grooming needs. When a shorter cut, you can reduce brush outs to a few times a week and get the coat trimmed up every weeks. Mini Poodles Puppies For Sale.

View All Articles in Ear Health .Grooming Table A good grooming table will take your home grooming salon to another level. The dog grooming arm attached to the table will keep your pup safe and still, so you can focus on the grooming. You can either build a DIY grooming table or buy a great dog grooming table. Firstly, all Doodles are prone to matting. So naturally, brushing will help prevent any knots and tangles before they even get to form into mats. Also, every now and then or every day! Or when they get smelly… Here you can learn all of our best Doodle bathing tips and tricks. This should be done weekly, or in some cases, every days. Make sure to check out our ultimate dog nail trimming guide. In addition, trim their inner ear hair to avoid dirt and bacteria getting trapped. This will prevent bad smell and discoloration around the eyes. As all dogs are unique, there is no one-size-fits-all rule. For instance, how frequently you bathe your Bernedoodle depends on their activity levels, skin conditions, coat type, and hair length. Some dogs may need baths every week, while some require bathing only before hair trimming. The best way to deal with matting is to prevent it. Luckily, you have the option to choose from a variety of cute Bernedoodle grooming styles. The sooner you introduce your Bernedoodle puppy to grooming, the easier it is for your pup to get used to it. Are Bernedoodles High Maintenance? Bernedoodles and other Doodles might seem high maintenance to some. Doodles need regular brushing and haircuts to keep that coat looking gorgeous. The best tip is to brush your Bernedoodle daily to maintain a beautiful coat without too much effort. If you decide to groom at home, you will have to factor in the cost of all the grooming tools. High-quality Bernedoodle grooming tools usually last longer. Why is My Bernedoodle Shedding? If your Bernedoodle is shedding, we recommend you brush them daily to remove the loose hair from the coat. Let us know in the comments! Take matters into your own hands and learn to give your Doodle the exact haircut YOU want with this valuable online course! Learn More The information on this page is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional groomer advice. Always seek the advice of your groomer, veterinarian, or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like. The chest and tummy area. I would use these, as they have rounded tips for extra safety. Let it sit, and then brush or comb it out. Let it sit for a bit. Then, carefully start to break apart the tangle with your comb. GloCoat Pet Conditioner and Detangler is one of the best! Every doodle owners should have this on hand. This instant coat conditioner quickly penetrates mats and tangles for faster comb-outs. For tougher mats, some people swear by using a plastic letter opener. That stinks no pun intended because the whole point of bathing your dog is to get them clean and smelling good. A person takes their beloved doodle to the groomer for the first time and he or she comes back unrecognizable. The first thing I would recommend to is to find a great groomer. Ask your friends and family, post the question on Facebook, or check Yelp reviews. Find a groomer who is kind, caring, understanding, professional, and communicative. Try a new place until you feel comfortable! Many doodles are cut with the puppy cut, lamb cut, teddy bear cut, or lion cut, but even those terms can mean different things to different groomers. We recommend you bringing lots of photos of bernedoodle hair cuts you like to your groomer and communicating very clearly what you want. The Facebook Bernedoodle groups I recommend here scroll down to the bottom of the page , are a great place to get ideas and ask questions. A note about shaving your Doodle: I personally never shave my dogs. I request that the groomer use one to two levels up from that on the clippers. I understand that some people live in very hot, dry, or humid climates and believe their dog is much cooler with a shaved coat, or they like the look of it shaved. Research has shown that shaving a dog during the summer may not actually keep them cool. Their coat is designed to keep them cooler and protects their skin from sun burn. By shaving your pet you usually interfere with this built-in temperature regulation. In the winter, this keeps the cold out and holds the heat in. During the summer, this system holds the heat at bay and helps your dog regulate his body temperature. Without this insulating layer of hair, he is susceptible to heat stroke. When humans are overly warm, our skin perspires and the evaporation of the perspiration helps us to cool down. We have the advantage of perspiring skin over our entire body. In dogs, this evaporative cooling is limited to a very small area—the footpads, which sweat, and the lungs, where panting allows for latent heat to be removed through evaporation. Shaving the coat will have no effect on these areas. At the end of the day, you have to do what you and your vet think is best for your dog. I have personally found that shaving changes the coat texture and it can become more coarse…or that, a dog who was once nice and wavy can become curlier, or vice versa. If so, please hit the like or share button below! It is important to remember that the curlier the coat is, the more you will need to groom it. Straighter hair will not matt as quickly, but brushing often will keep the shedding under control. You will want a slicker brush for all coat types and short to medium-length hair. You will want to get a wide and fine-tooth comb for longer coats. Use the wide-tooth comb first to break up any mats that might be forming, then the fine-tooth comb for an evening out and detangling more minor knots. A de-matting brush on hand will help if your dog goes too long between brushes. These brushes are gentler than brushes because a brush will tug at a mat and pull the skin in return. When breaking up mats, always start at the ends with your de-matting brush and work your way to the skin. Brushing this way will cause less breakage and will not hurt your dog. So, if you are uncomfortable trimming nails alone, an experienced groomer or vet will gladly help. In either case, having nail trimmers on hand is a smart thing to do. Dogs can get broken and snagged nails just as people do. And in that event, you will need to help trim their nail for them to prevent quicking. Bathing A good moisturizing shampoo is best for preserving natural oils in their fur. These natural oils give their coats their shine. Using a dog conditioner will also help keep the softness. Since Bernedoodles do not shed, it is vital to take them to be groomed every weeks. During this groom, they will get a wash, nail trim, and a haircut at the very least. Think of it as if you were to get your hair cut. Also, when visiting a groomer, never set unrealistic goals on how the cut will look. Bernedoodles with wavy hair cannot have a haircut like a Standard Poodle. Visits to the groomer should start after your puppy has had all its vaccinations. It also allows your puppy to get used to the services it will require all of its life. Waiting too long to get your puppy groomed will stress your dog and make it more challenging to groom. This cross means that they are not full-bred dogs. Generally speaking, Bernedoodles are loyal, easy to train, and have a fun, easy-going character. They have high energy and are great for active lifestyles and kids. The Bernedoodle is known for its smart mind and keen ability to train. Therefore, these dogs are very motivated to make their owners happy; therefore, they are easy to train using simple treats and praise. Bernedoodles have a fantastic memory and will pass with flying colors any training course they are enrolled in. The average lifespan of a Bernedoodle is years. This is a long time for a larger dog that weighs pounds. With proper diet and exercise, these dogs are not uncommon to live much longer. Always choose one that has undergone genetic testing for all breeding pairs when looking for a breeder. This testing will ensure the health and temperament of your pup. Bernedoodles are an excellent pet for any home. They shed minimally, are loyal, family-oriented, and are easily trained. With proper care, you will never notice that stinky dog smell or have horror stories of a matted dog that needs to be shaved down. Do you think that a Bernedoodle is a right breed for you? Hopefully, this article has helped you understand more about Bernedoodles and their grooming needs. So, if you have a puppy and need potty training tips, visit our article here , which covers everything you need to know. In Conclusion Bernedoodles are a great addition to any family. They have excellent learning and training abilities and are great with children and other dogs. With a bit of love and care, these dogs will bond with your family and become protective of your family. Doodle FAQ. Grooming Your Bernedoodle Grooming Your Bernedoodle The Bernedoodle breed, also referred to as a Bernese mountain poo, is the product of a Bernese mountain dog parent and a poodle parent. This hybrid dog breed combines the best characteristics of both types of dog, such as the intelligence and low-shedding coat from its poodle part and the unwavering loyalty and laid-back demeanor of its Bernese mountain dog part. This combination of dog breeds also makes Bernedoodles irresistibly fluffy, with several variations in coat types. Of course, this means grooming your Bernedoodle should be done reglarly. Consider this your ultimate guide on how to properly groom a Bernedoodle , complete with a list of popular Bernedoodle haircuts you can choose to keep your furry family member looking its best. Keep reading to learn more about grooming needs. Except, of course, the fact that they require a substantial amount of grooming. More on that later. Keep in mind that grooming this breed is more than simply keeping its hair clean and trimmed. It also involves nail clipping, regular brushing and keeping its skin moisturized. For some people, the rule of thumb for Bernedoodle baths is whenever their pup starts to smell or becomes visibly dirty. Regular grooming will keep your dog happy and healthy. Bernedoodle Coats and Shedding As previously mentioned, Bernedoodles have different types of coats, and each coat type comes with different attributes. These are the different Bernedoodle coat types and what you can expect from them in regard to grooming. Straight coats are a characteristic of the Bernese mountain dog parent. A wavy-haired Bernedoodle will have a much softer coat compared to straight coats and be more prone to matting. Curly coats wool are a characteristic of a pure poodle parent. However, these coats need regular daily brushing because of their tightly wound curls, the coat type most susceptible to matting. The general consensus for weekly brushing is: Your dog needs a minimum brushing of twice a week to get rid of any dead or loose fur. As long as you commit to it a few times a week, it should be fine. Most Bernedoodle owners stick to two to three times per week, paying close attention to whether their dog needs an extra brushing session or two. You should bathe your Bernedoodle every two to three months and whenever they get into something dirty, like mud puddles. For both straight-haired Bernedoodles and curly-haired Bernedoodles, most groomers recommend you bring them in every four to six weeks for maintenance. However, a puppy is a different story and will likely take more effort on your part to train it to become accustomed to the process. The goal is to make brushing and bathing a positive experience for your Bernedoodle puppy so the process becomes easier each time you do it. To keep from scaring your puppy during bath time, pre-fill the tub or sink with lukewarm water before bringing it into the room. Be very gentle as you soak and wash it, giving more praise during the process. Refrain from scolding if it hesitates or is visibly afraid — this is an important part of their development, and fear can lead to anxiety issues later on. To do this, handle their paws beforehand, one at a time, increasing the amount of time each day. Once puppy vaccinations are complete, you can take them to the groomer. So, fill up the tub with lukewarm water, and be sure to soak it thoroughly before adding the shampoo. Give it a thorough rinse, then follow the same steps with the conditioner. Be sure to speak with your dog groomer first about what they recommend for your specific breed, as well as which services such as conditioning count as an additional option. Many Bernedoodle owners opt for a shorter haircut as it reduces at-home grooming time. You can also alternate Bernedoodle haircuts to try out different styles or get it ready for changing seasons. However, it will require more frequent brushing, especially if your Bernedoodle has curly hair. The Bernedoodle Summer Cut, as expected, is much shorter. The Bernedoodle Poodle Cut imitates the traditional look of a poodle and can become high maintenance, as the hair will be longer on some body parts. This cut works best on curly and wavy hair. The Bernedoodle Lamb Cut is another poodle hairstyle in which the hair is the same length all around with the face, feet and most of the tail shaved. Keep in mind that when you groom a Bernedoodle , it should be a bonding experience. So, learn to do it correctly and make sure you have the proper tools and the time to commit to your pup. Preparing Pups for Grooming The first step in grooming your puppy is preparing them for the grooming process. Your pup needs to be properly desensitized to a variety of stimuli such as running water, blow dryers and having their paws handled. It is important that you introduce your puppy to these experiences early on and in a kind manner so that they only associate these practices with positive experiences. Many puppies are afraid of the sound of running water, so try to have your sink or tub pre-filled prior to bathing your puppy. Be gentle with bathing your puppy and reward positive behavior with lots of love and praise. Do not be rough to your puppy in the bath or scold them for being afraid. Another experience that may be strange to your puppy is brushing. Your puppy will probably be unsure of what to think about having their hair brushed. Having their nails clipped is an unusual experience for all dogs, so it is best to prepare them early. Your Grooming Checklist In between professional grooming sessions, your Bernedoodle will require some maintenance care at home. The biggest one is daily maintenance of their coat. Bernedoodles have a hair coat, which means they are little-to-non shedding, however that can lead to matting of their coat over time if not properly maintained. Brush your Bernedoodle daily with a brush or comb. We love and highly recommend the Greyhound Comb! Your Bernedoodle may need bathing in between grooming appointments, but be careful not to over bathe! Most people think their pooch needs a bath once a week, however, too many baths can lead to dry, itchy and uncomfortable skin. If your puppy does suffer from dry skin especially in the colder months we recommend using a tea tree shampoo to soothe them! Always look for any unusual bumps, cuts or rashes when bathing your dog. First Trip to the Groomer! Once your pup has been fully vaccinated around weeks it is time for their first trip to the groomer! Even if you do not want your pup to receive a full groom at this time, we think it is very important to take your pup to the groomer anyway. Even if it is just for a quick bath and blow-dry, the earlier you can expose them to this practice, the more likely they are to acclimate to it without fear. We suggest taking your pup to the groomer every weeks for a professional bath and blow-dry. It is important to go with photos in mind of what you would like your pooch to look like. If you prefer a longer coat, remember that your upkeep is going to be much greater! Your groomer will be able to suggest to you different clipping options best suited for you and your Bernedoodle. Professional grooming should be done every weeks, with regular at-home maintenance in between. If you are ready to add a Midwest Bernedoodle to your family, please visit our available puppies page for updates on upcoming litters and open reservations. If you have any questions, feel free to check us out on Facebook or shoot us an email. We look forward to helping pair you with your new best friend! This has many benefits such as being a hypoallergenic breed, having a non-shedding coat and other various health advantages. Taking proper care to groom your Bernedoodle well and often is an important facet of dog ownership in regards to this breed. Neglecting to do so can lead to serious health risks and all round lower quality of life for your four legged friend. Why is it so important to groom your Bernedoodle? Not properly grooming your Bernedoodle comes with serious health risks. Since a Bernedoodles fur is non-shedding, they can have various lengths of coats depending on how frequently they are getting haircuts. But all coats are prone to matting. Mats tend to form close to the skin and can cause itchiness, sores, and rashes. This also can trap heat causing your dog to overheat easier in hot temperatures, leading to heat stroke or dehydration. These mats can also become home to parasites like mange that can harm your dogs. The good news is all of this is easily prevented with good grooming habits. Bernedoodles are no different. However grooming helps keep your allergies down as well as keeping your dog healthy and fresh. The main causes of dog allergies come in the form of fur, saliva, and dander. Unkempt coats are going to carry more of all 3 of those things making those of us with allergies that much more sensitive to our favorite furry friends. Nature also tends to use animals with bushier coats to spread things such as seeds, pollen, substrates, and insects. Yet again these can be things that cause your allergies to flare. Grooming is also a bonding experience for you and your dog. Dogs, and by extension Bernedoodles, know who is taking care of them. Regardless of if they seem to appreciate it in the moment. This is an often overlooked part of the chore that can make it rewarding. Spending time with your dog in this way is undoubtedly one of the best activities to have some quality time and strengthen your bond. Bathing and Grooming your Bernedoodle Bernedoodles as a breed tend to enjoy water and that extends to baths. They might get bored and want to relax however, making the job that much more difficult. Bring something to engage the dog and reinforce good behavior, like treats for example. It can also be solved by working quickly and efficiently. A lesser known trick to speeding up bath time is taking a bottle with a spout and filling it with a mixture of hot water and dog shampoo concentrate. Shake well and apply to the dog while they are still dry. Apply to the back, legs, chest, stomach, rear, and head. Then lather into the fur with your hands and rinse thoroughly. This can quicken bath time and prevent boredom. Once your dog is squeaky clean make sure to hand dry with a towel or two, and finish the damp areas with a blow dry on low heat. Some dogs have a higher tolerance for this than others but frequent practice and positive reinforcement at an early age are paramount to conditioning your Bernedoodle to enjoy every part of bath time. Bath frequency can vary depending on your own personnel needs as well as the dog's needs. Brushing a doodle's coat is an important cornerstone of caring for your doodle, and or Bernedoodle. The more often you comb your doodles fur the easier it will be. Less tangles and mats will form with frequent brushing. Coat length is also a factor here and longer coats require more attention. Investing in a solid wire brush and comb is all you need for this portion of grooming. Haircuts are another facet of Bernedoodle care. Since they are a non-shedding breed their fur will continue to grow and grow. Haircuts are important for three main reasons. Second and third are the health concerns. Dogs get hot and more fur on their body will trap more heat. More about bernedoodles:. An eight-week-old puppy will likely not require much grooming, as they will have little hair. However, starting at this young age will help them get used to the process and keep their coat shiny and smooth. Puppies are very impressionable. Your Bernedoodle will be much less likely to react negatively to grooming if you begin as soon as you bring them home. On top of a daily brushing routine, your Bernedoodle will likely need regular professional grooming. Often, this is required to handle their hair growth, as many take after their Poodle parent in this regard. You can start these sessions as soon as your puppy is up-to-date on vaccinations. Usually, most groomers will allow the dog to come in after receiving their rabies vaccination at 12 to 16 weeks. Some owners may decide to wait longer — at least until the puppy has received multiple doses of other vaccinations, like canine distemper. You can speak to your vet about when the best time to start professional grooming sessions is. The earlier you start taking your puppy to a professional, the better adapted to these sessions. These sessions also provide a great deal of socialization, as your dog will be interacting with the groomer and potentially other dogs. We recommend that you start grooming your puppy at home as soon as possible. Grooming a Bernedoodle can be a bit complicated. They are a mixed breed, so their coat is not as standardized as other breeds. They may inherit genes from either of their parents, which will affect their coat. In general, Bernedoodle will need to be brushed two to three times a week. These sessions will help keep their fur sleek and free from tangles. With the right brush, you can often remove much of the dirt and debris during these brushing sessions, which will elongate the time they need between baths. You can start these at-home sessions as soon as you bring your puppy home. They may not need them quite as much as this young age. But starting new will make them more accepting of the brush later. Puppies are very adaptable and will become used to whatever they are around, including grooming. You should also get your puppy used to having their feet handled, as this is important for nail clipping. Do the same with their ears, as they will likely need to be cleaned every few months or so. Most Bernedoodles will need professional grooming and a haircut every two to three months. Many of them do not shed, so this haircut is essential to their overall wellbeing. Otherwise, their coat will keep getting longer. Most groomers will not allow your puppy to be groomed until they have received their rabies vaccination. Usually, this occurs between 16 to 18 weeks. But you can sometimes request it as early as .Some owners prefer to wait until their dog is wholly vaccinated at 16 weeks anyway. Waiting to get their rabies vaccination at this time often makes the most sense. We recommend getting your puppy to a groomer as soon as their vaccinations are complete. The earlier they start going to a groomer, the more comfortable they will be. Should you use grooming clippers to shave your dog down when it gets hot? It depends on their coat type. If your dog has a double coat, it is not recommended to shave them during the summer. A double-coat works by having a soft, insulating layer underneath a waterproof layer. If you shave them, these two layers will be at the same level. The insulating layer will not be protected from the elements, and neither will your dog. While a double-coat may seem thick, it is designed to keep the dog cool during the summer and warm during the winter. A Poodle does not have a double-coat, so they are less able to regulate their body temperature. We recommend trimming Poodle-like coats down in the summer months and then keeping them longer in the winter. For dogs with a Poodle-like coat, you can technically cut it down as much as you want. You could completely shave the dog, and the fur would still grow back fine. However, dogs with double coats should not be shaved down to their undercoat. However, they cannot be shaved down any considerable amount. Be sure to speak to a professional that has experience with these canines. Puppies usually cost less because they are smaller. It takes the groomer less time to groom them, and they can be handled more efficiently. However, you can expect your costs to increase as they age. The size of your dog also plays a significant role, as a larger dog will take longer to groom. Conclusion Bernedoodles should begin at-home grooming sessions as soon as you bring them home. Many breeders start grooming their puppies very early and can let you know their routine. They will not allow your puppy inside until then, as they can potentially catch diseases from the other dogs. And, in many areas, it is illegal for breeders to groom dogs that have not been vaccinated against rabies. Therefore, the odds of them catching an illness are relatively low. Plan to go to a professional groomer when they are around 16 weeks old. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.