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A huge part of the oodle appeal is the fact they are lowshedding and therefore less allergenic than other dogs. The Spinoff spoke to half a dozen oodle owners, several of whom chose their beloved oodles for their allergy-friendly coats, commonly fleece or wool. And he doesn't drop hair, so we can have a pet but we don't have to deal with hair everywhere. The non-shedding was really important to me. The trade-off is that oodles come with high-maintenance grooming needs. Maltese are anti-allergenic. Poodles are anti-allergenic. Bichons are anti-allergenic. She picks up the phone after a busy morning — she has just farewelled one of her puppies to a delighted family, and the feeling is bittersweet. Still, she has plenty to keep her busy — Lomas has 21 labradoodle puppies in her care in Christchurch, and every single one is set to go to a new home across Aotearoa in the next few days. Lomas first encountered the labradoodle when she adopted one of her own, back in Australia in .Enlisting a mentor back in Australia — who, incidentally, wrote the code of ethics for the Australian Labradoodle Association — Lomas began to learn the nuances of breeding from the experts and started her business Labradoodle Lovers. That includes performing a series of rigorous tests on every breeding dog, including DNA profiles to identify any underlying genetic disorders that may be passed on, hip and elbow x-rays to check for dysplasia, and temperament assessment by an independent vet. Lomas works closely with a reproductive specialist in Christchurch, and gets together with a group of labradoodle breeders on Zoom once a month. It's a lot of work, but she loves it. I love breeding healthy puppies and seeing the happiness on the families' faces. The soaring price tag on oodle cross-breeds has led to a rise in "backyard breeders" — people who play fast and loose with both genes and breeding conditions. Anderson has seen the worst of it — cross-breeds that are heavily pregnant and heavily matted, some with gnarled feet turned the wrong way, and others suffering debilitating skin problems because of genetic factors. These problems can arise with pure-breds as well, but if you've got proper testing then they should be identified early. Lomas is similarly worried about backyard breeders, and says the lack of breeding regulation has created a "scary situation" for consumers and animals alike. Organisations like Dogs NZ have a strict breeder code of conduct, but only allow pedigree breeders on their books, which means that cross-breeders are not held to any sort of industry standard. Dogs NZ's Steven Thompson says the only two options that currently exist for people with concerns are the Animal Welfare Act, which imposes standards on the treatment of animals, and the Dog Control Act, which local government operates under. Anderson says she used to get regular phone calls from people asking about particular breeds and their grooming needs before they brought a dog into their family. Ideally, before you make a purchase decision, you want to develop a relationship with a breeder. Talk to the breeder, ask to be put in touch with other puppy owners from that breeder — if they won't match you up, that's suspicious. Whether you are looking at a cavoodle, a spoodle or a groodle, the same research applies. Those are the three essentials. The mixed-breed oodle has become the dog of the pandemic. An Australian pet insurer said more policies were taken out for cavoodles than any other breed last year and the year before. Several of the people spoken to for this story got their oodles just before the beginning of the pandemic, if not during it. Another saw the closed borders as a chance to finally bring an oodle home. A cavoodle owner in her 60s says they are the perfect size — "not too small and yappy, but not too big and muscly that they could run off with you. You must have got that around '. Animates' purpose is to make our world a better place through the love of pets. It's your one-stop shop for all your pet's needs, including vet services, grooming, DIY dog washes and catteries. Click here to learn more. Promoting and enhancing the temperament, health, coats and structure of the Australian Labradoodle breed. Conron struggled to find the right poodle to breed with one of his Labradors, but eventually he settled on his boss' poodle after other pure breeders scoffed at the idea of breeding a mix. She will greet you with a little kiss and cuddle, maybe have a roll around like her great grandma Celebrity and then back to business eating. Save a life adopt from an animal shelter or rescue organisation. Dont buy animals. Copyright Labradoodleland NZ. As few puppies sold online are desexed when sold, there is nothing to stop the puppys new owner from eventually breeding from their new dog, adding to the population problem. She wanted a guide dog, but her husband was allergic to Labrador retrievers, the standard service dog, Conron told ABC News. Krystal is a very sweet girl who loves attention and pats. Peaches has a gentle nature for which we aspire to breed within our breeding program. When you adopt a dog from a shelter, whether a puppy or an older dog, something wonderful happens you give someone a second chance at life and make a public stand against the unnecessary breeding of dogs. The original breeder of the popular crossbreed Labradoodle says he regrets creating the breed -and the craze around it that followed - which he now calls "a Frankenstein monster. She is introducing some new lines to our breeding program that we are looking forward to seeing in her puppies. All Rights Reserved. Many are coming from puppy mills, he says. Puppies bought online may be unsocialised, some having been removed from their mothers too early, resulting in puppies missing out on vital early learning. We are so excited to have her gorgeous personality and lines in our breeding program. Wally Conron regrets that ruthless people now breed the dogs he created. The search results for " labradoodle - NZ Webz Directory basic search Labradoodleland grew out of my passionate interest in dogs. Adele as she is known here at Kiwi Pride as she is a super star to us! Unwanted litters, dogs unclaimed from the pound and surrendered pets make up the majority of shelter dogs looking for new homes. They were a crossbreed, nobody wanted them, but everybody wanted a Labradoodle. Elderly dogs often find themselves at shelters due to their human companions moving into a care facility where animals are not allowed. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. They were good guide dogs, Conron says, but the hopeful service dog owners on his waiting list didn't want them because they weren't purebred. Puppies are sold without being de-sexed, to anyone who can pay, sometimes with no checks into the potential new owners home or history. Write a letter to the editor of your local paper asking members of the public to adopt a rescued dog from their local animal shelter rather than buying from a pet shop or breeder. Cat or Dog Pee Odours or Stains? A small kennel based in Upper Hutt, NZ. Sadly, there are very few regulations that apply to the breeding and sale of companion animals. Calls from around the world started coming in for Conron to breed more - and not just from people seeking guide dogs. The Labradoodle was first bred not for its cute face or scruffy hair, but to solve a problem. Many genetic deformities do not become apparent until the dog is older, resulting in unsuspecting buyers facing substantial vet bills and heartbreaking decisions. Thousands of dogs find their way to shelters every year in New Zealand. From miniature toy breeds to St Bernards. The members listed here are registered breeders in good standing with the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association. That's still Conron's biggest concern. I am a medical doctor by training but nearly became a vet. Mother dogs used for breeding are often subjected to multiple, consecutive pregnancies until they are spent meaning their bodies are exhausted and drained. Every gift goes towards providing education, undertaking research and campaigning for the benefit of all animals. Pet shops are increasingly moving away from selling pets sourced from breeders and are instead working with shelters such as the SPCA to rehome more animals. Adele is a beautiful natured girl, she is gentle, friendly and fun loving! So, Sultan, one of the Labradoodles, was sent to Hawaii, and Conron had two more dogs to find homes for. Too good to be True?? We love this wee girl dearly and look forward to meeting her lil fur babies in the future as we are sure they will have her beautiful nature too! Same dog, different name," he told ABC News. Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association. Richard Whelan; Horse Treks. She is very kind and sweet and loves to be involved in everything you are doing! Dog-rescue centres and council-run pounds are overflowing with adoptable dogs. We need to do something about it to control it. Labradoodles are just one of the many "designer dog" breeds commonly available today. Some sellers have multiple litters of a range of different breeds listed, clearly indicating that they are a big operation. Little Miss Annie is the sweetest little girl. We are excited with these parti colours she has with her gorgeous fleece coat to see what she might produce for us in the future! Many shelter workers must make heartbreaking decisions as they decide which dogs have a reasonable chance of finding a home and are therefore worthy of a space in the shelter. Email: cheryl [AT] labradoodleland. Our Websites. Copyright ec Estudio Integral. After seven days of holding an animal, pounds are legally allowed to rehome or kill the animal. Look online and youll find oodles of spoodles, cavoodles and labradoodles, all fighting for your attention. Finding the right fit is important, as some dogs require a lot more exercise than others. Hypoallergenic, non-shedding breeds, miniature breeds, teacup breeds and designer crossbreeds all are available at the click of a button. But behind the cuteness lies a big problem. She is a very sweet little girl who adores attention and cuddles. We hope to see some babies from Krystal in .Lacey always has a spring in her step and has an amazing cheeky nature but is really cute! Honey is the funniest little sweetheart. She is full of love and life, is always happy to see you and s. The two dogs -Brandy the Lab and Harley the poodle -mated one afternoon, and weeks later, three Labradoodle pups were born, Conron told the Australian broadcaster. The adorable wee Pepper is one of our energetic girls who has a very genuine carefree nature. The search results for puppies for sale Labradoodleland grew out of my passionate interest in dogs. We are very excited to see what puppies we have from Jessie, following her health testing later on in .He tried to breed a poodle to become a service dog because some people with allergies can tolerate their non-shedding coats, but nothing worked. Brachycephalic dogs, such as pugs and French and English bulldogs, suffer daily from breathing problems due to their shortened noses and restricted airways. Instead, adopt a rescued animal from a shelter and make a lifelong commitment to your new best friend. Some dogs, such as bull breeds are often rejected simply because of the misleading way the media portrays them. The only way to prevent the deaths of tens of thousands of companion animals is not to support animal breeders. She is goofy like her Mum, so loving and will spoil you with kisses. Thanks Penny, I have visited the labradoodleland website and filled in an adoption form. Conron was breeding guide dogs in Australia in the s when he received a letter from a blind woman in Hawaii. As a charity, SAFE is reliant on the support of caring people like you to carry out our valuable work. With their cute, round bellies, floppy ears and tiny paws, its easy to understand why so many Kiwis have canine family members. The Australian Labradoodle Association of America, which represents Labradoodle breeders, says the animals are "generally considered healthy dogs" but do have some common problems, like hip and elbow dysplasia. She has grown to be a lovely girl with an exquisite red coat! Thousands of unwanted dogs are killed annually in New Zealand because of overpopulation. Investigations have uncovered squalid backyard operations with multiple dogs living in shocking conditions. Labradoodleland; Food. Multi Generation Australian Labradoodle Puppies. The breeders couldn't patent the dog breed, Conron said, and eventually, other breeders joined in, crossing Labs and poodles and poodles with countless other types of dogs. While Labradoodles are not recognised as an official breed by the American Kennel Club, Brandi Hunter, the group's vice president of public relations and communications, says they and other "designer breeds" can be "loveable companions. If you own a Kereru Labradoodle we would love to display your favourite photographs. The New Zealand Veterinary Association has described the life of these breeds as like spending your whole day trying to breathe through a pillow. .She is full of love and life, is always happy to see you and she's a delight to handle. Available labradoodles, puppies, adult dogs. Dont you want to visit www. High energy dogs like border collies are ideal running buddies, while greyhounds love a good nap. Ask that they desex and vaccinate all animals before adopting and screen potential adopters. Log on to Trade Me, type in puppies, and youre a few clicks away from being able to purchase a dog. Soon, time was running out to get the woman her dog, Conron said, so he gave it one last attempt - this time with a cross. We very much enjoy having Papper around as she always puts a smile on your face. But not all dogs can easily be rehomed, particularly dogs who have never been socialised, are old or have suffered abuse. He told ABC News he worries about the quality of parents and health of the pups. Request they do not source their animals from puppy mills and instead help shelter animals. In March , Trade Me banned the sale of pugs, British bulldogs and French bulldogs, including crossbreeds. Almost anybody can breed and sell dogs with no experience whatsoever. Labradoodle, Spoodle and Cockapoo breeders. He was stunned. However, some things are slowly changing for the better. Although Labradoodles technically aren't hypoallergenic, the woman's husband could tolerate one of the three puppies. He turned to the media for help and branded them as the "Labradoodle. She is absolutely delightful and we are so happy to have her in our breeding program. Key West : Auckland supplier of automotive nuts, bolts and fasteners, automotive tools and specialist car parts. Jessie, much like her mum is a cheeky and lovable character. Any dog. Im coming to Auckland Saturday 6th August. Backyard breeding is rife in New Zealand, and while its a big moneymaker for some, its the animals who pay the real price. Speaking with Australia's ABC News in a podcast released last Friday, Wally Conron described how the Labradoodle and hype around the dog have veered far from his original purpose in mixing a Lab and a poodle. Labradoodleland grew out of my passionate interest in dogs. Dear sweet Amy, this little girl is not to be outdone by her sister Daisy, she also has the most beautiful fleece coat in the parti colouring! We can't wait to see how very special her babies will be. Located in Henderson, Auckland, New Zealand. Ask them where they source their animals. She carries on some wonderful lines from her mum, the famous Miss Cinnamon. Meanwhile, puppy mills continue to recklessly breed thousands of new dogs for profit. John Goodwin at the Humane Society of the United States says one of the biggest problems with "designer breeds" is that many puppy mills focus more on maximising the number of dogs they sell rather than the well-being of each dog. Only if you miss out! This was an important step in helping to educate people about the suffering of these breeds, but there is still a lot of work to do to get this information out into the mainstream. These adults are example pictures and all have been homed. Sadly, large numbers of dogs will never find loving homes and meet their fate with a lethal injection.

We are a northern California breeder near Sacramento that prides itself on choosing our breeding dogs for top health, temperament, and beauty that conforms to the breed standard. Our dogs are selected from champion lines with health clearances. We will only breed dogs that pass all of these tests, so we can continue reaching to improve the breed through imposing high standards for our dogs. We breed dogs from these lines to continue a heritage of excellence in the breed. This standard is different from the AKC standard for golden retrievers, but both are accepted and licensed. The English type should have a blockier and fuller head, shorter muzzle, lower ear set, rounder eyes, stouter body structure, as well as a lighter color than the American type see comparison figure below. As an adult, it has been a pleasure to now show and selectively breed these beautiful English Golden Retrievers. Raising our English Golden Retrievers is a family endeavor that includes everyone from the youngest to the oldest. It is wonderful to make family memories with our dogs and children together. Our English Goldens are first and foremost pets who live and play among our family. Our children are involved from showing our dogs to whelping the puppies. Our puppies go home to their new families very loved and well socialized. In Northern California, we are located in Newcastle which is at the base of the Sierra Mountain foothills; close to Sacramento, and about miles from San Francisco or about miles from San Jose other cities near us are Roseville, Loomis, Folsom, Orangevale, Auburn, Lake Tahoe about an hour , and Reno about 2 hours. We can deliver our puppies to you if you are out of state, and personally travel with the puppy to bring your puppy to you. We cordially invite you to visit us and meet our beloved puppies and amazing dogs. We're located in the California Gold County just 25 miles east of Sacramento. Surrounded by golden foothills, we offer the perfect place to meet and enjoy the dogs. Expect to be greeted with wagging tails and wet noses during your visit, as our dogs are always excited to meet new people. Please let us know when you would like to visit by booking an appointment. The care and love you, Heather, and all at Classic Heritage devote to these pups is remarkable. The efforts taken to ensure pups are matched with their new happy forever home are excellent. Everyone I met was equally professional, educated, loving, kind, and a lot of fun. All of the dogs are beautiful and happy.We have had the best experience and have the most loving pup so anything we can do to help Classic Heritage we would. We have recommended you to everyone who has asked. Life Span Did You Know? The English Cream Golden Retriever is not a separate dog breed from the Golden Retriever ; it is simply a rarer coat color variation. These Golden Retrievers tend to have light white or cream-colored coats instead of honey, golden-brown, or reddish coats. As they are still standard Golden Retrievers, they are recognized by the AKC and other canine organizations and can be registered. An English Cream Golden Retriever has all the same traits as any other Golden Retriever; they are one of the most popular dog breeds and tend to be open, friendly, and make great family pets. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. As long as they are socialized and trained, Goldens tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are even known for being open and friendly with strangers. As one of the kid-friendly dog breeds , Golden Retrievers love attention. These dogs tend to be energetic, full of personality, and are devoted to their families. They also tend to be excitable, which means they can be prone to barking. Training your dog to stop barking early on can help curb this habit and help prevent it from becoming a nuisance. Due to their friendly, gentle nature and intelligence, Goldens can often be found working as service, therapy, or search and rescue dogs. English Cream Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. Their high energy and exuberance make them better suited for homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living, but you will need to dedicate a lot of time every day to ensure they get enough attention, mental stimulation, and exercise. Goldens fare well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they bond so closely with their families and are one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Some potential health concerns to be aware of in an English Cream Golden Retriever can include canine cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Good breeding practices reduce the risk of these health issues and make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. The national breed club recommends hip and elbow evaluations, an NCL DNA test, an ophthalmologist evaluation, and a cardiac exam at a minimum. English Cream Golden Retrievers are intelligent and eager to please. This makes them highly trainable dogs that are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Not only are they one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners , but they also tend to excel at obedience competitions and other dog sports. 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 basic commands , move on to other activities or more advanced commands. Anything you learn will help and will only strengthen the bond you are building with your puppy. Plus, there are several other benefits of puppy training classes including socialization. English Cream Goldens may have a lighter-colored coat, but they still have the classic longer Golden Retriever coat that will shed a big year-round and heavier as the seasons change. You will want to bathe them as needed and get your Golden professionally groomed a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Trimming nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. Daily tooth brushing is ideal to keep tartar buildup at bay. This, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Golden Retrievers are known for being high-energy dogs. Like Labrador Retrievers , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They do tend to calm down a little as they grow into adulthood, but will still have a lot of energy. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep this dog happy and healthy. Goldens tend to be athletic and versatile dogs. So, once they are done growing and the vet has cleared them for higher-impact activities, you can take them running with you, play frisbee, go hiking, train for dog sports, and more. As one of the most active dog breeds , you will likely run out of energy before they do and they will likely be up for even more activity if you are. An English Cream Golden Retriever generally lives for years on average. Golden Retrievers are one of the dog breeds of famous dogs.

Nothing will make your poodle happier than to play you in a friendly and stimulating game of tug-of-war. The SnakeBiter is an excellent variation on rope toys for dogs that are aggressive chewers , which most poodles are. This rope is thick and solid, allowing your dog to go to town without destroying a favorite toy. Instead, our Invincible Snakes come with multiple squeakers for multiple rounds of toss and tug fun even when.Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. The Outward Hound brand is especially good for poodles because of the durability of their squeaky toys. Although this plush squeaky toy is small and light, the construction is extremely tough and will withstand extensive chewing and tearing. Apparently, in some cases, the squeaking device will remain functional even when the fabric has been punctured. Ultra Ball ChuckIt! Ultra Ball, Medium 2. Check out a variety of our pet toy products such as frisbees, perches and mirrors for birds, prey wand toys for cats, plush toys, Checkout Chuckit for ball launchers, bouncy balls, frisbees, indoor dog.Ultra Ball is one of our favorite designs on the market for ball toys for poodles. In addition, these balls come in bright and contrasting colors that will be easy for your poodle to see. Does your dog get bored quickly? Included with our dog puzzle toys are helpful tips and tricks to assist in optimal training; also, never leave toys with unsupervised pets - no toy is indestructible We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. In this interactive game, treats are hidden in various compartments as a challenge for your dog. Different shapes like cones and circles cover the chambers, and dogs must lift the covers off instead of pushing them aside to access the treats. The rubber grip keeps the activity tray in place, and the toy is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Flying Squirrel ChuckIt! PET TOYS: Get ready for bonding fun with your dogs cats Check out a variety of our pet toy products such as frisbees, perches mirrors for birds, prey wand toys for cats, plush toys, light-up.For additional usability, this toy can float—be sure to bring this with you if you ever bring your poodle out to a pool or lake. For extensive games of fetch, this tough and aerodynamic toy will keep your energetic dog happy. Goughnuts tough dog toys are long lasting and will keep your dog busy.Our super durable dog toys are nearly indestructible, but if your dog manages to damage them, Poodles can be downright obsessive with their chewing, and this ring-shaped chew toy can be a great solution for protecting your shoes and furniture. The thick rubber will last for a long time, and a convenient red safety indicator inside the toy will alert you when it has become too worn down to be safe for your dog. Both Cockapoos and Poodle are active dogs that enjoy outdoor play What to Look for in Poodle Toys While these are our top picks for great toys for poodles, there are plenty of dog toys out there that work well for poodles. Key elements to look for include durability, interactivity, and opportunities for social play. No matter what toys you buy, poodles are fun-loving and curious animals who, above all, just want to spend time with you. Happy playing! My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. This personalized art print is a unique and thoughtful gift for any Toy Poodle lover. The print highlights the breed history, traits, and characteristics that make the Toy Poodle stand out. The print is perfect for dog lovers of all ages and genders. It makes a sentimental and heartwarming gift for a fur birthday or to welcome a new puppy. Plus, the stylish print is made to work well with all existing home decor, making it a great housewarming gift to match any home. Buying Guide When it comes to finding the best toys for poodles, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you are choosing the right product for your furry friend. Here are some key features to consider when your are buying best toys for poodles Size One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a toy for your poodle is the size. You want to make sure that the toy is appropriately sized for your dog. If the toy is too small, it could pose a choking hazard, while a toy that is too large may be difficult for your poodle to play with. Look for toys that are specifically designed for small or medium-sized dogs. Material The material of the toy is also an important consideration. Look for toys made from high-quality materials, such as rubber or nylon. Avoid toys that are made from cheap, flimsy materials that can easily break or tear. Functionality Consider what your poodle likes to do when choosing a toy. Some poodles love to play fetch, while others prefer toys that they can chew on. Look for toys that are designed for the specific activities that your poodle enjoys. Interactive Features Toys with interactive features can provide great mental stimulation for your poodle. Look for toys that have hidden treats, puzzles, or other interactive elements that will keep your poodle entertained and engaged. Safety Finally, safety should always be a top priority when choosing a toy for your poodle. Avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed or toys with sharp edges that could cause injury. Always supervise your poodle when playing with toys to ensure that they are playing safely. By considering these factors, you can choose the best toys for your poodle that will provide hours of fun and entertainment while keeping them safe and healthy. I have a miniature Poodle named Olive. Pets are my passion and I love to share knowledge through writing blogs. About Us I'm Emma Olson, and love dogs so much, especially poodles. Pets are my passion and I work in the world of corporate pets. I worked at three different pet stores for about six years total and now volunteer at my local animal rescue. I love animals very much! While waiting for their forever homes, I like to volunteer to provide them with care in my spare time. What is a small dog toy and does your pup need one? At first, this might not seem like a compelling reason to buy one, until you consider this: Most dog products are made for medium to large-sized dogs. And because of this, small breeds like Shih Tzus and Pugs need their own special dog toys. A German Shepherd, for example, is basically a fur-covered ball of muscle. Compare this with your Chihuahua. Yep, two fingers are all you need to out-muscle these tiny pups. This is important to consider as some toys, especially hard-rubber chew toys designed for aggressive chewers, are surprisingly heavy. In fact, the heaviest dog toy we reviewed weighs a whopping 2 pounds. Far too heavy for a small dog to lift. The size of the toy also makes carrying it difficult. See that couch in your living room? We both know that your mini pup loves to climb up. Like Simba from the Lion King, perched atop pride rock, your dog has an amazing view of the entire room — much better than the sight of your ankles while he is down on the floor. What better place to play with your favorite dog toy? To you and me, sitting on a couch is simple. Small dogs have small mouths. It is for this reason that any toy you buy your dog should be small enough to carry easily. Dragging that oversized toy around your home is going to get old, and your tiny pup will quickly look for something more fun to do. And, it goes without saying that the toy you give to your pocket-sized pup needs to be durable. Toy Chihuahuas have small-dog syndrome. I am convinced that if Chihuahuas were the same size as a large dog, they would be the most aggressive dog on Earth. Those tiny jaws are capable of dishing out some serious damage. Plush toys, in particular, are easily shredded by the sharp teeth of small dogs. In fact, any toy that breaks is particularly dangerous to small breeds. You see… Small dogs also have small mouths and airways. A small piece of rubber or torn fabric from a broken toy can easily become a choking hazard. As always, if you notice that your pocket-sized pup has broken a toy, dispose of it immediately. Small dog toys are designed to address all these issues. Safe, light-weight and easy-to-carry, these toys are the perfect present for the miniature pooch in your life. Best toys for small dogs It might surprise you to learn that there are hundreds of small dog toys available to choose from. While some are amazing, others are downright terrible. Today, I share the best of the best. The small dog toys that outclassed all others. It was tough, but we narrowed the winners down to just 6 toys — each unique in their own way. Best squeaky toy for small dogs Squeaky Fun! The 6 Best Types of Toys for a Poodle Overview If you think of dog toys as needing to serve as tools to meet a Poodle's needs, you may be surprised at how amazingly helpful they can be. The right toys can help a great deal with everything from teething woes, to negative behavior associated with boredom.In addition, toys can serve as a method of creating a closer bond with your Poodle, encourage activity in an otherwise sedentary dog, and even boost a Poodle's brain power. Here we will take a look at the 6 types of toys every Poodle should have to meet a wide variety of canine needs. Teething begins by 3 to 4 months old and lasts until the 7 to 8 month mark. During this time, there are incredible amounts of itching and most puppies feel some level of discomfort. This causes an overwhelming need to chew to soothe those teething woes. For these reasons, one of the best things that you can do is find the right toys for your teething Poodle puppy. Qualities of effective teething toys: The oral sensations that a puppy feels can move from moment to moment. Discomfort waxes and wanes. And itching can come in waves. So, toys need to be very versatile. The best toys will have: A variety of surface textures. Cloth, rope, and hard rubber should be available to meet chewing urges at any one particular time. Rope toys are especially helpful, as the twisted strands are good 'scratchers'. Small nubs. This is of particular importance; tiny nubs work to massage gums which helps the pup feel better. A puppy needs to be able to manipulate the toy into different parts of his mouth. Proper sizing. This is most relevant to toy Poodles, since many dog teething toys are sized too big for a tiny toy's mouth. If a Poodle puppy cannot instantly find relief, he may move onto something else.Recommended teething toys: Below are our 1 most recommended toys for Poodle pups that are in the throes of teething. The first 3 are for toy Poodles, though larger options can be found for miniatures and standards. The Nylabone is just one example of great teething chews that are flavored to entice a puppy to mouth them and come in a wide range of sizes, to accommodate all Poodle varieties. If you do not see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn the screen horizontal to see all 4. And if this describes your Poodle, no doubt you have had a hard time finding the right toys that will stand up to aggressive chewing. A dog's urge to chew is not limited to toys; with this type of drive, nothing is off limits. If a Poodle is not happy with his toys, one of two things will happen: 1 the dog will move on to other objects in the house, which is not only destructive but also unsafe or 2 the dog will become irritable and stressed as he's unable to satisfy his urges. Qualities of the best toys for strong chewers: To meet your Poodle's needs, the goal will be to provide fun chew toys that are specifically designed to handle aggressive chewers. While no toy is literally indestructible, some come very close. The toy will need to: Be able to stand up to high bite force. Be safe - A great feature to look for is a color indicator that the toy has been chewed down too far. Some toys are guaranteed, meaning that if a color starts to show, you'll get a free replacement. Fun - If it does not have the right texture and pliability to feel good in a Poodle's mouth, it'll be of no use. Recommended toys for Poodles that are super aggressive chewers: For this, both Kongs and Doughnuts are the two best options, with Kongs being the best for toy Poodles images are below. Kongs are great because they come in a wide range of sizes that will be appropriate for toys, minis, and standards. These are color coded, with pink and blue for puppies, red for 'normal' adult chewers, and black is reserved for the strongest chewers. In other words, a puppy would never be able to bite down on a black Kong dog toy and an aggressive chewer could tear up a pink one. The 'classic' Kong is designed to be filled with treats or kibble, which draws a dog to it and encourages him to stay focused. If your Poodle likes to chew, but has not shown a history of shredding toys to bits, you may find that the Kong 'minimally stuffed' chew toys are well received. These are also great because they come in all sizes from small to large. Goughnuts are colored coded as well, with yellow, orange, and green for strong chewers PSI and black reserved for professional grinders at a whopping PSI. What is great about these is that they are guaranteed. Each has red in the middle. If you see even a tiny spot of red, you may return the toy for just the cost of shipping out a new one. There are 3 sizes as well; but these will be a bit too large for most toy Poodles. Toys are shown below. And in this sense, thinking of toys as 'stay busy' tools can make a huge difference in your Poodle's happiness level. When a puppy or dog is just sitting around without anything to do, he will reach a limit where boredom turns into frustration. And where monotony turns into depression. If your Poodle has been too bored, you may not even realize it until you hand over a super-fun, interactive toy and see him perk up. Alternatively, some Poodles are very expressive about how they feel. It must be noted that regular exercise plays a role in this as well. If your Poodle is not taken out twice per day for at least minute sessions, even the best of toys may not fix his woes. So, a good balance of getting outside for walks and offering the right toys during down-time is the best fix. Qualities of the best toys to fix boredom and keep a Poodle occupied: You'll want toys that will be perfect for both when a Poodle is home alone and also when you are home but cannot interact with your Poodle at the moment. These toys should: Allow a Poodle to play fully independently; you will not need to do anything else other than point out the toy if you are there. Call out to the puppy or dog. A huge aspect is that the toy interacts with the dog. In this way, playing is a two-way street. The dog noses the toy, the toy responds. The dog chews the toy, the toy reacts. This type of element can keep a dog busy for a long time, basically until he's completely tuckered out. Recommended 'stay busy' toys for Poodles: There ares some incredibly fun options. The Babble Balls toys are out of this world; these are super interactive toys that can keep a puppy or dog amused and busy for hours. There are 3 sizes small for toys, medium for minis, and large for standard Poodles. Also, there are two fun types. One lets out animal noises. So, as a Poodle touches the toy, engaging sounds like pigs, frogs, bears, birds, even other dogs speak to him. There are 20 different animal sounds in all. The other is just as wonderful. It lets out funny phrases such as 'Come here, puppy! There are 20 amusing, encouraging phrases in all. For both of these, the toys automatically shut off when not in use, so the batteries do not run out. The Look Who's Taking line of toys is super fun as well. There are over 15 different types of stuffed animals, and each one makes a corresponding animal noise. These are good sized quality toys that stand up to daily playing. The size of these toys range from 5" the baby chick to 7" the cow and a bunch in between. There is a parrot, frog, rooster, monkey, goat, lobster, and more. These toys are shown below. These serve two purposes in one swoop. As an added benefit, if you place your Poodle's food in this sort of toy on days that you are not home, it helps prevent bloat, a dangerous health condition fast eating is a common trigger , which is a top concern for standard Poodles and is always something to be aware of no matter what type or size dog you have. Qualities of great treat-release toys: There are a few aspects to keep in mind. For this type of toy to do its job, it should: Hold in treats enough that they are not released too easily, but at the same time allow a Poodle to smell them in order to trigger a response. Be designed to work with a variety of different dog treats so that you are not forced to purchase additional treats. Be made with safe materials. Be durable to stand up to daily use. Be easy to clean since you'll want to be able to rinse away food particles. Be sized correctly. It's not uncommon for owners of toy Poodles to have trouble finding treat dispensing toys for their tiny dogs, so for these Poodles, it must fit the needs of dogs 10 lbs. Recommended treat dispensing toys for toy, mini and standard Poodles: There are some great options for all Poodles images below. Busy Buddy makes two treat release toys. The barnacle toy is perfect for toy Poodles, even puppies. It is composed of 3 tiny separate spheres, so toy Poodle can easily mouth onto one of them at a time. If you like the looks of this one, but don't have a toy Poodle, no worries.The other type is the twist sphere, which is adjustable, so you can control how easy or hard it is for your Poodle to get to the treats. This comes in small for dogs 8 to 20 lbs. The IQ Treat Ball is a great toy for toy Poodles on the larger end, minis and standards; this is available in both 3 and 4 inch diameters. It's a neat little sphere that is adjustable and releases food as it's nudged which encourages a dog to move. The Bob-A-Lot is a good-sized toy that is best suited for mini and standard Poodles. This has a large chamber that holds a full meal, and its bright color and wobbly movements make eating fun. Distress and even panicking when owners are away is referred to as separation anxiety, and this is not uncommon with dogs. In fact, it may be even more so with breeds like the Poodle due to their instinctive sensitivity and close human bonding. So, while all toys are important in their own way, perhaps the one type that can make the most dramatic impact on a Poodle is a companion toy. These will mimic a living creature to become an instant friend. With this, a dog is no longer alone. In addition, it would be remiss to not mention webcam devices that allow you to interact with your Poodle when you're not there. These are quite amazing, though are not fitting for those on a tight budget. Qualities of best companion toys: There's no competition here and there's no comparing. The very best ones are Smart Pets; these are good-sized quality stuffed animals that emit a rhythmic, soothing heartbeat. This alone instantly swoops away heavy feelings of isolation. In addition, is an option to send out a comforting warmth. This is as close as you can get to giving your Poodle a companion without obtaining another dog, and these are just marvelous. Qualities of the best pet webcams: Not very long ago, there were some sparse choices for this; however, the features where quite limited. Now, there's some truly amazing devices. While these can be a bit pricey, if you really want to go all out and come the absolute closest you can to being with your Poodle when you're not with him, the webcam will: Have two-way audio so that you can both speak to your Poodle and hear any barking in response. Have a wide-angle view and night vision, so that you can clearly see your puppy or dog at all times and under any sort of lighting though it is always recommended to keep lights on for a dog that's home alone. Easily sync to your smartphone Hold a good number of treats, so that the interaction can be frequent and extended. Toss treats out with a tap on your phone, and at a good distance to make it clear that you're playing with your Poodle. Our 1 recommend companion toys and a super-neat interactive webcam are below. If you don't see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. It's what they live for. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Poodle is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15 minutes, and it will mean the world. And do not discount older adults and even seniors. The need to hold onto bonds is stronger than ever. However, it's not uncommon for a Poodle to need something colorful and interesting to get really involved with a game of fetch. You'll want it to be durable and importantly the right size so that your Poodle can easily mouth it. Another option that is great to play on rainy days are puzzle games. With this, you work together as a teacher and student. You'll teach your Poodle how to nose levers and paw buttons to find hidden treats. There is something to be said about the Poodle ranking 2 in intelligence ; this is indeed a super smart breed. However, dogs are as smart as opportunity allows.For these, you'll want to pay attention to the level typically 1,2 and 3 or beginner, intermediate, and advanced so that the puzzle is doable. Recommended super-fun fetch toys and a fun puzzle game are below this one is level 2, but there are lots of options. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Pros Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! The ridges and nubs on the toy help clean teeth and prevent plaque and tartar buildup, promoting dental health from an early age. The toy is gentle enough to ease pain during the teething stage, and the savory chicken flavor encourages puppies to chew on the toy instead of destructive items around the house. However, the toy is not suitable for dogs over 15 pounds, and some reviewers reported small pieces coming off the toy. Overall, this is a great option for small puppies who need a gentle chew toy to help with teething. Size for puppies and small dogs,a dog that weighs less than 22 lbs,such as.Some toys have the bells,please pay more attention when they are playing toys and do not let your dog swallow these toys,just be sure to throw away.We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Overall, this set of toys is a great investment for any poodle puppy owner. The toys are made of high-quality TPR and soft cotton, making them sturdy and bite-resistant. They are also easy to clean, making them a convenient option for busy pet owners. The toys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, providing your puppy with a range of textures to chew on. One thing to keep in mind is that the colors of the toys may vary and are randomly delivered. Some of the toys also have bells, so be sure to supervise your puppy to prevent them from swallowing the toys. Additionally, the set is not recommended for dogs with sharp teeth or for dogs that like to fight over toys. It's great for Chihuahua.Unique Design Shape Toy for Boredom - Unique fruit shape with hollow seductive pineapple flavor and real texture surface, can attract the dog to chew and play. You can fill the teething toy with food.Improve Intelligence Training - This pineapple interactive dog toy can training dogs jumping, reaction ability. You can also use this pet toy to interact with dogs and play throw and fetch game, enjoy.To Esteemed Customers - Recently our pineapple dog toy by the malicious reviwe of others, these people deliberately bought our dog toy and destoryed it,then leave us one-star with images, please do.This toy is made from extremely durable bite-resistant natural rubber and is designed to withstand even the most aggressive chewers, making it great for Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Corgis, and Poodles. Pros The unique fruit shape with a hollow seductive pineapple flavor and real texture surface can attract the dog to chew and play, making it a great small dog toy for boredom. The toothbrush-like design is helpful in freshening breath, stimulating gums, and reducing tartar and plaque buildup as your dog plays and chews away. The toy may be difficult to clean because of its unique shape and texture. The manufacturer provides a lifetime replacement guarantee or refund for their dear customers. Recently, the pineapple dog toy received some malicious reviews from others who deliberately bought the dog toy and destroyed it, then left one-star with images. However, the manufacturer has provided their own video, showing their own dog playing very happily. If you have any issues with the pineapple tough dog toy, please contact the manufacturer in time. Side note: I do not recommend getting rope toys to play tug-o-war with your dog. In my opinion, they are quite dangerous for two reasons. First, they tend to fray easily, leaving behind strands of string that might cause digestive obstruction in your dog if swallowed. Bottom line? Ready now? Endorsed by veterinarians globally, serving as a secure plaything for active dogs. Its ability to keep their dog busy and anxiety-free, without any choking hazards, makes it a must-have. Another reviewer, owning a mini Aussie doodle, praised its endless chewing appeal. Although there are a few concerns about its long-term durability, most owners agree on its value for money. Includes various obstacles and steps to keep dogs mentally stimulated. Promotes positive play habits, reduces anxiety, and redirects destructive behavior. This interactive dog toy made by Outward Hound has garnered over , positive reviews among dog owners, myself included. It makes for a super enjoyable and stimulating play time for intelligent and playful dogs! Small breed owners appreciate its suitability for their pups, and its versatile design with rounded plastic corners ensures safety during play. Many users also appreciate the option to freeze treats inside the toy and its easy-to-open lids. However, it may not be the best choice for heavy chewers. Overall, this toy presents a fun and mentally engaging option for dogs, especially those of smaller breeds. Classic Dog Ball Launcher Upgrade the game of fetch with an interactive dog toy that enhances throwing speed and distance effortlessly. Designed to extend reach and keep hands slobber-free while reducing bending over to pick up muddy balls. Compatible with 2. This toy by ChuckIt has received lots of positive reviews from users on the internet. One user, initially skeptical, discovered the value of the product for their ball-obsessed lab. They invested in multiple ChuckIts and found it helped maintain their arm strength during playtime. While some experienced minor issues with slobbery balls sticking inside the cup, it was easily avoidable by removing and replacing the ball. The Chuckit itself remained durable, and users found cost-effective alternatives by using standard tennis balls. Play fetch and interact with your canine companion during pet exercise with this lightweight dog play toy that features a unique S-shape design. This recyclable puppy chew toy also includes a manufacturer Love It Guarantee against damage. Easily clean this dog tug toy for chase and fetch games by adding it to the top rack of your dishwasher. The Zogoflex from West Paws has garnered positive reviews from more than 5, satisfied dog owners on the internet and I personally own one too. For high-energy pups keen on chewing, fetching, and tug-o-war, this toy comes highly recommended. Even for tough chewers like Labradors, the toy impressively withstands their play, making it a worthwhile investment. Though not the cheapest option but still very reasonable! Each unstuffed toy has 3 independent squeaker zones for enhanced entertainment for small and medium dogs. Soft and durable puppy toys, machine washable for easy cleaning, ensuring longevity and fluffiness. In this pack, you will find a set of three squeaky animals. For less squeak-focused dogs, it provides enjoyment, and the lack of internal fluff prevents mess. However, some users found the squeakers not durable enough, losing their sound after moderate usage. Aggressive chewers, quickly destroyed the toy, ripping open the head and potentially posing a risk if the squeaker is swallowed. While some dogs may enjoy these toys, they are not suitable for aggressive chewers or those who prioritize squeaking ability. Lightweight, durable, weather, and water-resistant for long-lasting performance. Ideal for medium and large breeds, measuring 12 inches long. Ensured safety with rigorous testing for endless family fun. In my experience, this toy has a number of uses, for example as a tug-o-war toy or for a game of fetch. However, I find that it is most useful when used in the pool. Boxer owners found it to be one of the best toys, standing the test of time even during tugging and chewing sessions. However, for other dogs like a large retriever, it remains durable, perfect for fetch and retrieve games with excellent flotation. Overall, this toy showcases durability and versatility, catering to different playstyles and breeds. Made from durable nylon and heavy-duty rubber to withstand strong chewers. Interactive toy to cure boredom, promoting long-lasting play and calming anxiety for dogs over 6 months old. This particular toy features rotating soft brushes and treat rings, and has garnered mixed but generally positive reviews from internet users. While some dogs tend to destroy it quickly, its effectiveness when new keeps users repurchasing it. Take note though, it requires supervision, as dogs may dismantle it, and there are concerns about choking hazards and cracked plastic pieces. For some dogs, the toy provides extended playtime, with treats keeping them occupied for at least half an hour. I think this will be super beneficial for poodle owners whose dogs finish treats too quickly. Perfect for beginners, helping dogs learn tricks, commands, and strengthening the bond. Includes 1 square collapsible tunnel, 4 weave poles, and an adjustable jump, offering multiple ways to play. Convenient and portable with a lightweight set and a storage bag for easy home use. I love this kit! Be aware though, that the kit is made up of a few different parts which you have to purchase separately. The puppy gets particularly obsessed and even whines if she seesit being kept away. The toy has proven to be durable and has a good length, allowing an owner to use it even while standing on the couch. Soft material designed for teething puppies. Textured chew toy with bristles for teeth cleaning and plaque prevention. Features delicious bacon flavor loved by dogs. A few of the stories that really struck me was a week-old puppy that took a liking to these chew toys, keeping him engaged and relieved teething discomfort. The toys prevented destructive behavior and proved effective for the teething phase. One owner liked it so much that he repurchased it multiple times for their now 2-year-old pup, who still loves the toy. While it eventually breaks down with heavy use, the toy has been durable for a few months with occasional chewing. Putting it in the freezer also worked well for some dogs, soothing their gums during teething. One of the top additions if you are a puppy owner, in my opinion. Eases anxiety during transitions and stressful events like fireworks and thunderstorms. Easy to use, made from certified safe and durable fabric, and machine washable heartbeat and heat pad removable. This has got to be one of the most highly-rated cuddling toys for dogs, whether they are adults or puppies. Just go read the reviews online! And I love it for many reasons. For new puppy owners, it proved beneficial in comforting their pups during crate training, helping them sleep through the night. It is also super durable. Why are Play and Toys Important to Poodles? Provide physical exercise Play and toys are important to poodles since they serve as the gateway for these dogs to engage in physical exercise. The time your dog spends playing with its toys keeps them moving which exercises and stretches their muscles. The exercise also helps them maintain a healthy weight, and it could even boost their cardiovascular health! Help stimulate the mind We all know that Poodles are smart dogs, constantly out and about thinking of what better to do during their free time. Letting your poodle play with toys will surely keep their intelligent minds busy. If you can see your poodle behaving bothered and looking bored, try giving him an interactive puzzle toy for dogs. Boost social skills Play and toys let poodles interact with their dog owners. Often, poodles will bring toys to their owners as a way of engaging in play. This simple act also makes poodles friendlier and more playful, which makes them even more adorable! There are teething toys out there that are even recommended by vets, especially if the poodle is still a teething puppy. Playing with chew toys and teething toys will also let your poodle remove plaque and tartar in his mouth on his own. No more constant messy toothbrushing! Hence when they get bored or anxious, they typically resort to destructive behavior. But with toys available for poodles to play with their boredom, anxiety, or stress can easily be handled. Yes, Poodles do need a wide variety of toys. You see, there are some poodles, especially the young ones, who need teething toys to alleviate their teething throes. Factors in Choosing Poodle Toys Size appropriate Poodles come in three sizes; standard, miniature, and toy poodle. Chew resistant Poodles are quite the chewers, I should say. Chew-resistant toys are widely available in pet stores and even in vet clinics. They are safer since no parts will be chewed off and swallowed by your dog. Many reputable manufacturers will indicate the material they use, especially pet-safe ones. Interactive and mental stimulation It pays to consider if a toy can provide mental challenges and games that are interactive yet fun to play. When you do so, you give them the opportunity to stimulate their minds and keep them busy for hours. Products that are proven to be durable can save you more than just a few dollars, but also the potential for loose parts to come off and pose a swallowing threat. No small parts This is really important to me — making sure that the toys for poodles have no small parts. Small parts can be torn off by your poodle, which it might accidentally swallow and choke on. Budget Having a dog can surely add a huge expense to your budget, and buying toys that are way too expensive is unwise especially if your dog will only play with them a few times. That said, I would prioritize safety and quality over anything else, and if money is indeed an issue, I rather wait to get a better one. However, some toys are durable enough to last a long time before getting destroyed. How many toys should I provide for my poodle? As a general guideline, I recommend having a variety of toys to keep your poodle mentally and physically stimulated. Start with toys and observe which types of toys your poodle enjoys the most. Rotate them regularly to keep them interesting and prevent boredom. Are some materials dangerous for my poodle? Yes, there are materials that are dangerous for your poodle, such as PVC and lead, both of which are toxic to dogs when exposed too often. Choose a reputable retailer and exercise extreme caution if you DIY your own dog toy. Why do poodles destroy their toys? Standard poodles typically destroy their toys because of their natural prey drive. But miniature and toy poodles usually destroy their dogs just out of boredom or anxiety. Regular brushing and visits to the vet are still needed. In Conclusion: Best Toys for Poodles I hope that this article has helped you in finding the right poodle dog toy and add a touch of spice to your life! Know someone who might benefit from this information? Please share this article with them. And do consider joining our community of responsible pet parents too! Share this post! Right now, I am still heavily involved in dog parenting duties, and it is my desire to share all our knowledge with fellow dog owners out there! Popular Posts. This is far from the truth. Poodles are athletic, friendly, and smart dogs. Poodles can be easily trained and are an eager breed. Poodles love to stay active and challenged. The right toy can be an effective and fun way to interact with your poodle. Without a doubt, my dog Angus enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I purchase for him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month for any size dog. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds are donated to local animal shelters. Check out the Barkbox website here to discover why Barkbox will make your dog as happy as mine. Toys are a great way to stimulate and encourage your poodle. It is essential to find the best toy for their stage of life. Ideally, one that they will enjoy and will help keep them active. Even though Poodles are associated with France, poodles were originally a duck hunter dog in Germany. Hunters wanted a dog that could swim and move well in the water. That is why poodles have their famous haircuts. They wanted them to keep their fur around their midsection for warmth but shave parts of the neck, legs, and tail to allow them to move better in the water. Poodles are known to be late bloomers, though, when it comes to teething. Teething could last longer than the eight-month mark. It is important to be patient with your teething poodle, and chew toys are a great help in this stage. Some qualities to look for in a teething toy for a poodle puppy include: Several types of surfaces for the teeth to experience. Knobs, grooves, ropes, and different materials can help get just the right stop when it comes to teething. A temperature element can be soothing. Freeze toys can be wet or cold can help your teething puppy find relief. Make sure the Teething Toy is the correct size. You want the toy to be big enough that it will be safe to chew on but not too big where your puppy will struggle to use it. The following two puppy teething toys are great options for your poodle puppy to have fun and find some comfort for their sore gums. Nylabone Puppy Starter Packs Puppy Chew Toys This pack of chew toys is great for a poodle puppy because it has a toy for different teething stages and comes with a healthy treat. The toys are durable and have a great flavor your dog will love. The different ribbons and elements can also entertain your poodle as they play. However, it can be impossible to be engaging with your pet at all times. Sometimes you have to leave for work or errands, and your poodle is left to entertain themselves. If poodles are left too often on their own without any motivation to be active, they can become bored. Boredom can lead to depression in dogs. Toys can be a great help to keep your poodle entertained when you are not home or able to play with them. Make sure these toys are simple enough that they can be figured out by the dog on its own. The Babble Ball can provide hours of play for your dog to keep them entertained. It will also turn itself off when your dog has left it alone. It comes with over 20 sounds so that your poodle will not get bored. The more they interact with the toy, the more it will talk back to them. If you see that your poodle is destroying things while you are away, they might be suffering from separation anxiety. A more interactive approach with the dog owners while they are left alone might be helpful to stop some more destructive behaviors. This pet camera has 2-way audio so you can talk with and comfort your poodle while you are not there. It will alert you when your dog is barking. Separation Anxiety in Poodles Poodles can experience anxiety if they are left alone for just one hour or all day. There are some signs to look for in your poodle to determine if they have separation anxiety. This can happen in any age of your poodle, sometimes puppies will outgrow this phase, but it can also be a problem among older poodles. Signs of separation anxiety include: Barking continually Destroying things around the house Depression Acting out or out of control when you are leaving the house Extreme excitement when you return Increased number of bathroom accidents Along with making sure your poodles have plenty of toys to keep them active while you are gone, here are other ways to help them with their separation anxiety. Leaving the television or radio on to something calming is a good idea. Poodles also like to watch the things that are going on around them, setting up an area for them by a large window or screen door can be helpful. Always make sure to leave a light on or allow or lots of natural light. A dark house can make your poodle feel lonelier. As mentioned earlier, many times, when dogs are bored, they often tend to chew more. Some tips to encourage approved chewing include. Redirect their chewing to a new toy. Poodles love new and exciting things, have two groups of toys, and only keep one group out at a time. Once you notice your dog getting bored with those toys, swap them for the other group. Keep things exciting. If your poodle is not interested in playing, try making a game. Poodles love social interaction. Making it a contest to find their chew toy might get them more excited about their chew toys. Let them not what things are not acceptable to be chewed. If your poodle continues to chew on non-chew toys like furniture, you can spray those things with a chew-deterrent spray. Here are some great durable chew toys to help your poodle redirect their chewing: 1. With three different toys, you can give your poodle a variety and switch things up to combat boredom. The different textures, shapes, and flavors will help keep your poodle entertained and chewing on these for hours. It has different textures, the rope, knobs, and tube center to keep your poodle engaged. It is durable and safe to chew. It can also be used as a training or fetch toy. Having plenty of durable chew toys can also help to combat other negative behavior your poodle might be displaying. Poodles are known to be friendly, well-tempered dogs, but like any breed, they can begin to develop some more negative behaviors. It is important to recognize these behaviors and redirect them into positive behaviors. Most Common Behavioral Problems Among Poodles Hyperactivity— It is normal for poodle puppies to be hyper, and they usually grow out of this in the first year or two. If this behavior in your poodle continues, make sure you are providing them plenty of exercise. If they feel like you are angry or frustrated, they might act out in a more hyper mood. Try to remain calm around your poodle to help them emulate your calm spirit. Too clingy- Make sure your poodle is allowed to explore all approved areas of your house, this way, they know where they can most comfortable. Introducing your poodle to new environments and situations will help them feel more comfortable in different circumstances. Always make sure you are giving your poodle the attention they need. Quality time throughout the day with their owner will allow your poodle to feel safe and secure when they are left alone. Nipping- Poodles are not naturally aggressive, and all dogs nip a little in the puppy phase as they learn to play. If this action continues into adulthood, it is vital to train and teach your poodle that this behavior is not okay. Poodles respond best to positive encouragement. Marking territory If your poodle is marking their territory, they might be trying to assert their dominance in the household, leave a mating signal, be having a response to visitors, or it might even be a response to a new family member. It is crucial in this situation to establish yourself as the head of the family with your poodle. Let them know that you are the leader. You can do this by having them sit first before you give them their food or treats. Having them sit before you enter or leave a room is also helpful in letting them know you are in charge. Another way to help them stop marking is to get them spayed or neutered. It would help if you also cleaned your home with an enzyme cleaner. Soap and water will not get rid of the smell entirely and your poodle will continue to mark when they smell it. Growling- growling is different from barking and is something an owner needs to be aware of right away. Finding the reason for the growling is important—is your poodle in pain, scared, marking their territory, or being aggressive? It is important to identify the trigger so you can help change the situation. If your poodle has begun to grow aggressively, proper training right away is vital to stop the behavior before your poodle thinks that it is acceptable to behave like that. Jumping- It is common for poodles to jump up when they are saying hello or excited to see someone. If you have a bigger poodle, this could potentially cause a problem or even frighten your guests. It is also important to make sure you are helping your poodle release their extra energy in other ways, like walks throughout the day. Disobedience- Poodles are a highly intelligent breed. They are great problem solvers and good at learning commands. Poodle owners must train their poodles with commands and rules. If you find that your poodle is continually disobeying you, it is important to understand what might be triggering them. Poodles are emotional dogs, they might be frightened or lonely, and that could be causing some of their disobedience. Understanding why they might be disobeying will help you find the right steps to take to get them back on track. Poodle Play Together Toys Dogs, especially poodles, love human interaction and contact. Poodles are athletic and smart dogs and can be easily trained. Finding a good toy that will help you interact with your poodle is a great way to show them your love and affection. It is best to find a durable toy that is easy for them to fit in their mouth when looking for a toy to play with your poodle. Hartz Dura Play Ball Size: Small Pack of 2 If you have a toy, small, or puppy poodle, these balls are the perfect size to play fetch with. They are durable and waterproof, so you can throw them in the water and let your poodle show off their swimming skills to retrieve it. They are also bacon-scented, which all dogs love! Tug a war is always a favorite game among poodles. These toys are strong and durable, and your poodle will love playing a game of fetch or tug of war with one of these many shapes. Poodles and Exercise I mentioned many times how much energy poodles have and the importance they stay active. There are many other reasons for proper exercise other than just behavioral benefits. Exercise can help lengthen your poodles life-span and combat many other health problems they might experience. Making sure your poodle exercises for the correct amount of time, on a daily bases, and at the right level can have the following benefits. Digestion help- prevents constipation and helps with regular bowel movements Increase of muscle tone which can prevent injuries Increase of blood circulation which helps combat cardiovascular disease Decrease the occurrence of UTI because it promotes healthy urination Slows down the development of arthritis Playing fetch is an excellent exercise to release quick amounts of energy, but regular walks with your poodle are the most beneficial type of activity for this bread of dog. Here is why: Walking is low impact and easy on their joints and muscles. All you need is a leash and harness. Puppy Poodles-The The duration of your walks or the amount of time you exercise your poodle depends on its size and type. For toy and miniature poodles, it is important not to over-exercise them as puppies. This can affect bone growth. Keeping walks shorter and at a slower pace for these small puppies is important Adults Poodles-As your poodle reaches adulthood, you can increase your walk time and pace. Most adult poodles need about 60 minutes of walk time a day, and it is best if this is done in two 30 minute sessions or three 20 minute ones. Senior Poodles-Even as your poodle reaches his or her senior years, it is vital to keep up their walking routine. Fresh air is known to help their moods. Just make sure to decrease the duration and pace of your walks. Walking Poodles in Different Weather Conditions Whether it is hot or cold outside, weather can affect your desire or ability to walk your poodle. Try morning and cooler evening walks. Always bring water and take a water break in the shade. Protect their nose with sunscreen. In the summer, swimming is another excellent exercise for your poodle. They are great swimmers, and it is an excellent low-impact activity. Make sure you wash their coat off with shampoo afterward, and if you are in an area with deeper water, a doggie life vest is always a safe option. Cold Weather Again, protect those paws. Paw wax or no-slip paw show to keep those paws warm Dress you and your poodle appropriately. A vest or sweater can help keep your poodle warm during those colder winter walks. Protect their noses from getting chapped with a nose butter. If it is just too cold to go outside, make sure to play and give your poodle plenty of playtime in the house. Playing fetch and letting them run a little more in the house will help them get out their energy. Best Treat Toys for Poodles Poodles love treats, and treats can be a useful training tool. They can also be a motivator to play and help keep your poodle active. Some qualities of a good treat toy include: Capacity-It can hold a good amount of treats. You do not want to have to refill it after only a few minutes of play. Variety-It can hold many different sizes of treats. Difficulty— It is not too easy for your poodle to get the treat out of it. Strong-You definitely want it to be durable. Size-make sure the size fits the size of your poodle. Poodles come in many sizes, so making sure the toy is appropriate for their size is important. These are some great options for treat toys for poodles: 1. Depending on the size of your poodle, you can pick the size that will fit them best. It is durable and machine washable. The unique shape of this toy will provide your poodle with extra entertainment because they will not know which way the toy will bounce. This toy is great for stuffing all different kinds of treats inside, and it can even be frozen before play to add an extra level of excitement. Outward Hound Ottosson Puzzle Brick Dog Toy Not only will this toy dispense a treat to your poodle, but it will also exercise their mind. Poodles are highly intelligent, and it is important to also stimulate their minds and keep them thinking. Puzzle games that dispense treats are a great way to accomplish this. This puzzle game can help reduce boredom and destructive behaviors. It will make treat giving stimulating and interactive. This game is a level 2 puzzle game, so it will not be too easy for your smart poodle. It is hand washable and easy to clean. Keeping Your Poodle Happy and Healthy. The bond between you and your poodle can be very special. Poodles love affection and the attention of their owners. Through proper training, play, and exercise, you can establish a routine and lifestyle that will bring happiness and longevity to your poodle. Toys are a great way to interact with your poodle and provide them with fun. They can be used to help train and discipline your poodle. They can also help give your poodle comfort when you are not physically there. The most important thing is to find something that your poodle loves and will help increase their quality of living. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Lemonade Pet Insurance : Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer! Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price. BarkBox : Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters. I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Brent Hartman I'm Brent Hartman. I've been a dog lover my entire life and have owned many animals over the years. When my black lab Angus passed away, I was looking for another friend to share my life with. As a result of my research, I've come to love poodles and wanted to share some of what I've learned with you. Whether you're looking to adopt a poodle, or already own one, I created Poodle report to be the ultimate guide to help you find the answers you need. Recent Posts.

The average cost of a German shepherd dog in the U. Depending on the breeder, this detail could affect the price of the dog as well. The best way to find German shepherd dogs for sale around you is by searching online. The website PuppiesForSale has a list of registerable puppies for sale in Alaska. You should always avoid buying a pup from someone who does not belong to a reputable kennel club. More specifically, you should ask prospective breeders to provide information about their dogs. The internet is one of many useful tools that will aid you in finding a reputable breeder. You may use search engines to find a list of breeders in your area. Before you purchase a pup from someone, it is best for you to speak with them first. If possible, you should schedule an appointment so that you can meet the breeder and their dogs in person. If you have any questions regarding German shepherd puppies, please contact the breeder via email or telephone. During this meeting, the breeder will provide you with important documents and information. You should ask them about their breeding practices and explain why you want to buy a German shepherd dog from them specifically. Look at the temperament of the dogs kept by your prospective breeder. The dogs should be well-mannered and friendly. They should also behave appropriately around you, your family members as well as other people they meet during the visit. Are the German shepherd dogs kept in a clean area? An unclean kennel may be a sign of careless breeding. Your breeder should take good care of their dogs and make sure that they are clean at all times. An onsite visit is best for selecting your Alaskan German Shepherd breeder. You may contact these individuals and ask them about their experiences with your breeder. What was the temperament of the puppies they received? Were the pups healthy upon delivery? How long did it take for their pup to be trained? What was the overall experience like as a whole? You may contact these individuals directly and ask them about their experience with your breeder. If you are purchasing a German shepherd pup from a breeder in Alaska, ask them if they provide their dogs with proper veterinary care. A responsible breeder will ensure that their dogs receive the medical treatment they need to be healthy and happy. What vaccinations does your Alaska German Shepherd Breeder give their pups? What is included in this vaccination schedule? Ask your prospective breeders to give you information regarding the immunizations they give their dogs as well as a schedule for these immunizations. While Alaska state laws do not require dog breeders to give German shepherd puppies vaccines, responsible breeders will vaccinate their dogs. If they refuse to give references from past customers. If your breeder in Alaska chooses to hide information about their dogs, like where they come from or how old they are. If you visit the kennel and the dogs seem extremely skittish or fearful of human contact. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to search for another German shepherd dog breeder if you want to buy a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder. Your new Alaskan German Shepherd should be a happy healthy puppy from a reputable breeder. An honest and reputable breeder will provide you with a complete health history on your new German shepherd puppy. Ask the breeder if their dogs suffer from any of these common diseases: Hip Dysplasia: This genetic disease makes it difficult for the dog to move around normally because their hip joints have been malformed. It may be related to the actual size of their joints or even a genetic defect. Depending on how much hip dysplasia your dog has, they may be more prone to further injuries and arthritis as they age. Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is another genetic disease where the elbow joint becomes deformed making it difficult for dogs to walk normally. The joint will pop out of place easily when the dog moves around which makes it difficult for them to move comfortably. Eye Problems: Dogs may be born with this disease or acquire it later in life when their eyesight gets worse. Most dogs develop cataracts in both eyes, while others might only develop one eye. This will affect their eyesight and cause them to scratch their eye or face more. Once you have located a German shepherd breeder in Alaska, make sure to ask the right questions before settling on one dog breeder. If you find an ethical breeder who breeds healthy Alaskan German shepherds, you are one step closer to becoming the proud owner of a German Shepherd. Your first step should be to make sure you and all members of your family are prepared to love and care for the new puppy. Is everyone on board with getting a brand new member into the family? Are they willing to dedicate time and patience in order to train this new addition? If everyone in your family agrees they are ready for a dog, you will need to make room in your home or backyard for the new puppy. This includes making sure the entire family is prepared with any necessary supplies like food bowls, towels, and brushes. If you have other pets at home, you will also need to make sure your entire household is prepared for the introduction to the new puppy. A dog bed small enough for your puppy to fit comfortably in will teach them that this space is where they are allowed to relax. Introduce Your Puppy to Their New Home Before you introduce your German shepherd puppy to their new home, it is important for them to meet the other members of the household first. You will need to have patience when introducing your puppy to any older dogs or cats in the house because they may not understand this. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy Potty training a puppy can be a long and arduous task, especially if you have a new puppy that is not fully potty trained. Be prepared for this process to take at least three weeks before your German shepherd will start going to the bathroom outside instead of in the house. Clean up after them immediately — if the smells remain in the house, they may be easily distracted and go potty indoors. Take them out at regular intervals — set a schedule. If your puppy knows they will be taken outside every two hours, they will begin to expect it and hold their bladder longer. Praise them when they do go outside — this helps with their training and makes them feel happier about going in the right spot. Try A Potty Training Bark Collar If you need some extra help throughout your potty training process, you might consider purchasing a bark collar to help get your German shepherd puppy on track. A bark collar works best for puppies who are not yet potty-trained and know when to go outside. These collars can be effective, but they may not handle smaller dogs as well. Because the collar goes off whenever your puppy is barking, they will most likely learn to hold their bark, causing them to be even quieter when going potty indoors. No matter what method you choose for potty training a German shepherd dog, if you are consistent and patient, they will learn how to go outside in the appropriate areas. We hope you are excited about bringing home your new member of your family. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. Our names are Davianna and Mirta Olert. Our family has lived in Anchorage, Alaska since and have always been very much dog centered. We started our mother-daughter run German Shepherd adventure with Atari from Chinook Valley Farm in , and quickly realized how special he is. Atari is a trained service dog, International Champion, shows at AKC registered dog shows, and is a beloved family companion. This special dog inspired us to pay forward how lucky we have been with him and to share the results of his excellent bloodline with others through careful and limited breeding. We are a small operation intentionally. We only breed the healthiest dogs with the best possible bloodlines to ensure each mating pair has the greatest aptitude for producing excellent family, companion, service, working, obedience, and protection dogs. Our dogs are family members first, they mingle with us daily, from outings and training classes to lounging at home on the couch watching TV. We mindfully place puppies in homes that will suit their emerging personalities and the needs of their new families the best. We are committed to placing puppies in homes where they will thrive and where you will get to experience the same joy our Atari, Ana, and Kali give us everyday. Get new content delivered directly to your inbox. Type your email…. View more We offer an unmatched 5 year health Guarantee on all our puppies. The best breeding stock and bloodlines in the World. Germany, Serbia, Ukraine and more. The best a consumer can look for and ask for. For all things major, including hips, elbows, eyes, degenerative Myelopathy etc… Love's German Shepherds German Shepherds bred with the mystique and grandeur of Alaska in mind. We breed only the finest German Shepherd bloodlines. Our goal is to produce dogs which are strong, healthy, and possess stable temperaments making them the finest dogs for family companions, show, sporting and protection. Our German Shepherd puppies are bred for Alaska and have large heavy bones, rich pigmentation, Black and Red, may be plushy with undercoats. Excellent drives, clear heads, stable nerves and impeccable character. Consisting of only the finest German bloodlines, our Western German Shepherds are very balanced dogs; they possess a calmness and stability in their temperament. These dogs have been bred to excel in show, sports and protection. Our main goal is to produce a dog that can handle the Alaska outdoors, to be a companion at your side on a hike thru the wilderness, a dog that has the poise, intelligence and body awareness to follow you across a log over a stream, play in the snow with the kids or bound with you on a glacier. The result is a dog possessing high energy and endurance, fiercely loyal and protective with a proud and beautiful gait. Temperament, health, working ability, brains and looks So now that you know who we are, here is what we do. Fill out the puppy application and we will see if we can match you with one of the finest German shepherd puppies in Alaska. If you are from a large family or have seen a large family, then you know that each child has their own temperament. The same applies to litters. There are many temperaments in a litter and our goal is to match you with the puppy that suits your needs, but more importantly our goal is to find the best home to match the puppies needs. A happy puppy is a happy home. One Minute Puppy Videos.

Some of these you can help prevent, while others are out of your immediate control. If your GSD carries the genes for ears that lie down, instead of standing erect, then more than likely they will have floppy ears. This means they may have ears that never stand up and are floppy for life. Breeding Some breeders choose to pair parents that both have large, erect ears. And some buyers and owners prefer this larger style of ears for show or aesthetic purposes. But, there is some theory that breeding a German Shepherd with larger and larger ears might contribute to ears that stay flopped over. Always see the parents of the puppy you buy from the breeder on the premises to see their appearance. Physical Damage or Accidents Puppies are active and mischievous and can get into plenty of trouble. This includes physical damage or accidents that have the cartilage or muscles in their ears. If this happens their ears may suffer long-term damage and not stand up naturally on their own. So watch out for a rough play that might lead to ear damage. And, if your pup has been in an accident that hurt their ears, take them immediately to the vets. Improper and Poor Nutrition German Shepherds need balanced nutrition during crucial growing stages, including vitamins and minerals that aid in cartilage and muscle development of their ears. You should ensure your dog gets the right nutrition from the start to avoid any issues. Along with Vitamin D, calcium helps strengthen the cartilage to aid in building a strong foundation for the ears to stand up later. Neglecting Ear Cleaning Puppies still need ear cleaning when dirt and build-up are overly present. Dirty ears that become neglected can inhibit proper growth and cause discomfort for your dog, causing them to excessively scratch their ears which can cause damage. This could cause them more harm! Instead, wipe away the dirt from the skin of the ear with a warm, damp washcloth or use special ear cleaning wipes. A dog with one floppy ear and one ear upright is totally normal. Occasionally, your German Shepherd might have one floppy ear and one ear standing upright. If they are a small puppy then they are most likely growing and the one ear down still needs time to go upright naturally. These are some of the best techniques that will help their ears to stand up. They only need to sit inside the ear enough to support cartilage growth. Make sure you check for any creases or folds in their ears before moving on to the next step. Repeat in the other ear. Make a Popsicle Support Now, take the popsicle sticks and place them at the top of the foam rollers both ears should have foam rollers in them at this point. You might need another pair of hands to help with this, so ask your family or friends to help. Take the self-adhering waterproof tape and place a medium-size piece across and around the two foam rollers and popsicle sticks. This ensures even and symmetrical growth. Make a bridge across their ears instead. If your German Shepherd puppy is 9 months old and their ears still flop over, please see your vet for further assistance. When in doubt, get your vet to show you what to do for their ears. Your puppy might become annoyed with the tape on their ears, so they may need close supervision and even some distraction during the taping process. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a German Shepherd that has floppy ears and putting them at risk to have any unnecessary surgery to get their ears to stand up can cause them pain. Speak to your vet about the side effects and pain associated with ear implants. You can help prevent floppy ears in your dog by taking the appropriate steps to keep them healthy. The top ways to help a GSD with floppy ears include: 1. Feed them a high-quality food Giving your dog the proper nutrition for optimum growth is a necessity, especially when they are puppies and growing rapidly. Choose a puppy food with the correct ratio of nutrients and vitamins to ensure they get the correct building blocks for development. When you choose to give them treats, pick ones from this list of the best healthy dog treats for German Shepherd puppies. Provide them with the proper chew toys Chewing helps to strengthen the muscles that surround the ears. Or worse… Injure them. Learn to play and discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way to avoid accidental ear injuries or damage. German Shepherds with ears that are floppy are a joy to own, no matter their age! Floppy ears are adorable and give your dog even more character. Go on, and find out what makes your companion the happiest dog on the planet! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. A thick-bellied and thick-legged cub of a Shepherd color with a long tail and dense fur can only be finally classified as purebred when the ears of a German Shepherd puppy stand up. The ears of a true German Shepherd are, according to the standard, erect, of the medium size, set high, with the ends directed forward and up, and not adjacent to the skull on both sides, even when a Shepherd dog is in motion or presses its ears or lowers them in a calm position. When German Shepherd ears stand up when excited, the distance between their highest points tips should visually equal the width of the auricle. Since the range of frequencies heard by a dog is much higher than that of a human, a German Shepherd determines the source of the sound and its direction and location instantly and accurately due to such an auricle at a distance of m depending on the pitch of the sound. Moreover, a Shepherd can hear the peals of thunder or the sound of a working chainsaw at a distance of km. The lowest sound for a human is 16 Hz, while the highest one is 20 thousand Hz. The upper limit of frequency fluctuations perceived by a GS dog as a sound is thousand Hz. Clear hearing is especially important for a German Shepherd as for a dog with high service qualities and no less high requirements for its work. Sensitive ears allow not only for relying on a Shepherd dog as an excellent guard but also for guiding it at great distances, giving commands at frequencies that are not perceived by the human ear or in an undertone. Their small ears are also imperfect — they are rather soft due to the underdeveloped cartilage that makes up the auricle. That is why there are separate German Shepherd puppy ears stages when they start standing up. The cartilaginous plate is covered on both sides with a layer of thin connective tissue that provides the main cartilage with growth and nutrition and is called the perichondrium. The perichondrium, on the contrary, is dotted with mini-hematopoietic capillaries and blood vessels. Through them, the cartilage receives necessary substances for its growth and compaction with the help of conventional diffusion literally, penetration by contact. In the same way, the ear cartilage of a GS dog is built on, and the perichondrium has semi-stem cells which, like bricks, are built into the cartilage tissue. Cartilage cells, in turn, produce collagen and elastin. This is due to the active work of all parts of the auricle cartilage and perichondrium. Up to 4 months, cartilage tissues are especially active, but by the fifth month, the growth of elastic layers and the embedding of stem cells decreases. Having reached a certain density, ear growth slows down, and in a short time, it almost diminishes. The metabolism in the auricle becomes so low that visually the ear seems to no longer grow. However, limited living processes in it continue throughout life. Otherwise, it would be impossible to restore the tissues of the German Shepherd puppy ears in case of damage. To do this, you need to feed the puppy a balanced diet with enough calcium and phosphorus. Excess calcium and phosphorus can adversely affect the formation of the ear cartilage and the development of the musculoskeletal system of a German Shepherd. We must not forget about the composition of the blood because it is the main food for the growth and strengthening of the cartilage plate due to the diffuse contact with it via the perichondrium. Not only nutrition but also the obligatory physical activity of a German Shepherd puppy, both at home and on walks , help improve the blood supply to the perichondrium. Under such keeping conditions, the ears of the Shepherd stand up on time and additional actions on the part of an owner are not required. The optimal age when the ears should stand up is 5 months. Do not be afraid if the ears are 1. This sometimes happens. You need to worry if the puppy is already 8 months old, and the ears still do not rise. If at the age of 12 months, the ears are still not on top, the question of a purebred puppy will emerge. Teeth and Ears It often happens that at 2- 3 months the ears of a Shepherd stood up, and at 4 they fell one or two at once This is a normal process associated with the change of teeth, when the body mobilizes all the microelements to build a strong dental system, pulling phosphorus and calcium front he cartilage in this direction. At the same time, the drooping ears should stand up. Hurry up! After a year, hopes to put up ears in a German Shepherd are melting exponentially. There may be, for example, a birthing crease, subluxation, or hematoma as a result of injury to the ear canal. Has your dog ever had ear infections or other ear problems? They can involve inflammation of the middle ear, otodectosis, or a forest tick attack. Have you noticed any allergic reactions in your pet? It may be allergic to dairy products or antibiotics. If antibiotics or immunomodulators were used, what did your dog get sick with, and how often? Infectious diseases significantly inhibit the development of a Shepherd dog and slow down growth and physiological formation, including cartilage tissues. The latter is in charge of whether the ears of a GS puppy will stand up or it will remain floppy-eared. In what conditions is the young Shepherd kept? When living in an aviary, a dog must have a warmed booth in winter to avoid hypothermia of the ears, leading to spasms of small vessels of the perichondrium and a dense canopy from the sun in summer — overheating also leads to spasms. Do you walk and talk enough to your dog? Each age demands its own supplements developed for puppies, and they are also divided by the size of the dogs: small, medium, and large dogs. The German Shepherd is a large breed! This is one of the most common problems in pedigree dogs, including German Shepherds. Diseases associated with the imbalance of hormones lead to problems with the immune system and prevent the body from proper formations of all organs and their functions. Overfeeding a German Shepherd as well as underfeeding leads to a deficiency of micro-and macroelements, which highly contributes to the timely formation of cartilage tissues by the age when the Shepherd should raise its ears. Have there been any stressful situations? Cortisol, a stress hormone, activates a defense mechanism that blocks the production of new cells including semi-stem cells in cartilage tissues , reduces blood flow, and forms a negative calcium balance in the body of a Shepherd dog. Very often, this problem is transmitted at the genetic level, and your German Shepherd floppy ears can be a result of it. When was the last vaccination administered? After vaccination, the body of a GS dog begins the active formation of immunity. The process requires the consumption of microelements and vitamins for biochemical reactions, so their deficiency is formed, similar to the condition after an illness. How often do you pet your puppy on the head? At your touch, the Shepherd dog instinctively lays its ears back, getting used to keeping them folded lengthwise from the base to the top. The result will be an acquired crease or scar along with the entire ear that keeps the German Shepherd ears down, and this will require cartilage adjustment. If the doctor sees it necessary, your pet will have to take a blood test, undergo an ultrasound, and possibly take some x-rays. Treatment Based on the results of the examination, the doctor will prescribe medicines most often — flavonoids, vitamins, glucosamine, calcitonin, thyroxine, iodine, zinc, iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium , which normalize the composition of the blood and add the necessary building material to the body. It is important to carry out all the medicinal prescriptions under the supervision of a veterinarian. An overabundance of any element can lead to a deterioration in the general condition of the pet and its ears in particular. In addition to medication, the doctor will most likely prescribe an ear massage at home. The massage procedure is not complicated — knead the ear from the base to the very tip between the thumb and forefinger, helping to improve blood supply, for about 5 minutes, times a day. Be careful with the place where the ear is attached to the head! This place does not need to be kneaded, only the auricle itself! Though, the most favorable result will not be long in coming — the ears of Shepherd dogs stand up in just a week or two. It is worse if the veterinarian makes a diagnosis of the atypical defect of the ear cartilage. What does it mean? Is it safe for the health of the Shepherd? And is it possible to put ears on a puppy with such a diagnosis? Atypical Cartilage and Ways to Eliminate Consequences Atypical cartilage is a defect in the development of the ear cartilage, resulting from a damaged structure of ear tissues, and their inability to support the ear in an upright position. This often occurs in young dogs after the ears have stood up, and then an ear or even two has fallen off. The same picture can be observed in old Shepherd dogs — the ear or both fall off and then rise again. The reason is the same — deformation of the ear cartilage due to long years of life at old age. However, with the old GSs, it will no longer be possible to return the ears to a stable standing position. Nevertheless, it is quite possible to correct the position of the young German Shepherd ears — they need to be glued, allowing the cartilage to recover. Gluing is nothing more than the necessary support for the intensive synthesis of elastin a connective protein in tissues and its uniform growth over the entire area of the ear cartilage. Properly glued ears do not allow creases or folds, never stretch scars, and make it possible to fill these creases with full-fledged elastin within 1. In this case, the puppy or young GS should be given maintenance vitamin supplements containing gelatin. Good results are also provided by a steep bone jelly or soaked food gelatin, 1 tbsp before every feeding. Adding bone meal and sea fish to the diet is a good solution, too! Taping Ears Correctly Since when is it worth starting the taping process? Until months of age, cartilage correction is unlikely to be needed. It is better to use the support in the form of massage and, possibly, a garter to put two ears together from months of age so that they take the correct position on the head. Feel the ear from its base to tip. If a crease or scar is found, you need to tape the ear urgently! You can watch some videos to see how to tape German Shepherd ears correctly. To correct one non-standing ear if the cartilage is even and of good density, without creases and scars, you can resort to a cardboard or plastic insert that maintains the ear in the desired position. Watch some videos to see how to do that. In any case, do not despair! David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Suffice to say that the dog has come a long way from its herding roots. Part of that perfect picture we have of these pups is the erect position of their ears. It gives them the qualities we associate with the breed, such as intelligence and confidence. Floppy ears strike us as a disconnect. These dogs have a dense coat that puts a lot of weight on their ears, relatively speaking. Also, large breeds like the German Shepherd mature more slowly than smaller dogs. It could just be a matter of time. That fact will come into play with the availability and price of the dog. It may have a disqualifying trait , such as floppy ears. This characteristic has a genetic component. Injury or Trauma Damaged the Cartilage Puppies sometimes play rough. They bite at each other, and sometimes the ears get the brunt of it. That often translates into slower healing times. Some manufactures produce tailor-made foods for specific breeds , such as the German Shepherd. That can go a long way to helping your dog recovering from an injury. It can interfere with air circulation in the ear canals, setting up the perfect storm for infections or mites. These conditions are horribly uncomfortable for your pup. Left untreated, it can cause a hematoma or swelling. This condition requires veterinary treatment. Several options exist, from aspirating or draining it to surgery. The best prevention is avoiding the conditions that caused the ear discomfort in the first place. All German Shepherds have floppy ears as puppies. The difference depends on when they start to change and stand up into their adult position. It can take several months. However, the number of adult dogs with floppy ears is about one in five. That may get its ears standing upright quicker. Taping the ears is usually part of the healing process when dogs get their ears cropped. The other concern is doing the procedure correctly. That could lead to ear trauma or a bowel obstruction if it swallows the materials. We suggest that you have your veterinarian do the job if you want to go this route. Final Thoughts The upright ears are an essential feature of the striking pose of the German Shepherd. Nature often has her plan for when that will happen in a puppy. Sometimes, it takes longer in pups with thicker fur or large ears. Healthy nutritional support will help the cartilage develop stronger and quicker. In the meantime, patience is the key. See also:. A common misconception that many people have is that German Shepherds have cropped ears that account for their erect posture. It often surprises some people to learn that the AKC standard calls for naturally erect, not cropped ears. GSD puppies are born with floppy ears set against the side of the head. As puppies mature, their ears usually start to stand up naturally. However, for various reasons, some dogs have ears that stay floppy. You can reasonably expect erect ears by around eight months old. This is because calcium that would generally nourish the ears is reallocated to the teeth during this time. You can expect the ears to become erect after the teething stops , around 20 weeks. After a puppy is no longer teething, they will start retaining enough cartilage in the ears to help hold them up. GSDs ears are heavier than they appear, and the cartilage must be sufficient to help keep that position. A sign of ears likely to stay erect are ears that become pointy once they start to stand. If your puppy reaches four or five months without any sign of the ears standing up, you might need to give them some help. When the ears are not erect by around seven or eight months, they will more than likely retain a floppy position. It is not something that is going to happen overnight. If you notice that your pup can prick their ears up or even just the tips of their ears by the time they are four to five months old, the chances are that the ears are developing normally and should become pointed without any intervention. The best thing to do is to keep your hands off their ears and avoid bending, rubbing, or folding their ears. If you notice that your German Shepherd is shaking their head a lot or scratching at their ears, it may be their attempt to relieve some kind of minor itchiness or irritation. However, if you notice that the head-shaking persists, then you should be concerned, especially as your pup grows. Any trauma to their ears before they reach four to five months of age can affect the cartilage and cause the ears to remain floppy rather than erect. Aural Haematoma: this is a blood blister found on the outer skin of the ear and can appear swollen. This condition is often the result of trauma due to vigorous ear shaking or a dog fight. However, if they are more serious, they will need to be removed surgically, and this can sometimes include the removal of part or all of the ear canal. If not, your pup will continue shaking their head and scratching, which can cause further injury and trauma to their ears. Skin Allergies: The head shaking and scratching may also be due to an allergy. For this, you may have to use antibiotics, antihistamines, or put your pup on a low allergy diet to treat their ears. For more information on avoiding dog ear infections and what to look for regarding causes and treatments, visit AKC. One of the more recognizable features of the German Shepherd dog breed is their large, erect ears and stoic expression. However, a lesser-known fact is that a German Shepherd puppy is born with floppy ears. So, how do you know what kind of ears your German Shepherd will have? The ears should also be pointed. If you got your German Shepherd from a reputable dog breeder, you could expect that their ears will stand erect after they are done teething. However, if you acquired your puppy from a puppy mill or there were less than desirable breeding practices or health problems, then your adult dog may end up with droopy ears. German Shepherd Ears Chart Although there is an official breed standard, in reality, German Shepherds have different types of ears, from ears that are set too high or too low to ears that are too large, asymmetrical, or too small. Some dogs even have ears pointing outwards or inwards or tilting one way. Overall, as you can see in our German Shepherd Ears Chart , there are at least 12 different types of German Shepherd ear shapes. Blood flow into the cartilage will likely increase when you do this, helping the ears keep their shape. Proper cleaning will help prevent infections that can be painful and costly to treat. Make sure you have a towel handy as you drop the ear cleaner into their ear. The towel can be used to clean up any mess as well as massage the ear cleaner solution in and around the ears. You can then use a cotton ball to remove any dirt or excess liquid. Chew Toys Sturdy chew toys will not only help keep your puppy busy but can also play a role in exercising the muscles supporting both the ears and jaws. Chewing helps with teething while also exercising their jaw and neck, and head muscles. Quality Diet The food that you feed your puppy should have high-quality, nutritious ingredients. Foods free from both wheat and corn are some of the best choices. You should also discuss supplementation with your veterinarian. Glucosamine, for example, helps to lubricate joints and supports healthy cartilage. For example, hearing certain noises that attract their attention or hearing their name can make them prick up their ears. Take advantage of this situation by praising them and providing a treat when they prick up their ears in response to this type of stimulus. They will associate pricking their ears up with getting a reward. Regularly Check for Parasites You also want to regularly check your dog out for parasites and ear mites. In addition, tapeworms and roundworms take away the essential nutrients your German Shepherd pup needs, which can ultimately cause poor health and other deficiencies. An ear mite infection can also cause your dog to itch, which causes them to shake their head excessively. Cartilage is extremely fragile and is prone to damage. If the cartilage becomes damaged, it can prove impossible for the ears to stand erect. However, keep in mind, this is invasive and does require your dog to go under anesthesia. They will also require pain medication following the surgery, and there will be a lengthy recovery time. Discuss Options with Your Vet You may want to consider having your vet make sure nothing is going on, like an ear infection. Some German Shepherds come from lines that carry genes that lead to floppier ears. Unfortunately, when genetics is the cause, there is little that owners can do aside from being more conscientious about ear health, which is a more significant concern in floppy-eared dogs. Many dogs from show lines, in particular, have larger ears that require more cartilage while the dog is growing to help support a more upright position. In many cases, these dogs will not have ears that stay upright. Broken Ear Cartilage German Shepherds can also end up with permanently floppy ears as a result of broken ear cartilage. This can happen in GSDs for a variety of reasons, including: Injuries. Well, there are a few different possible explanations. Causes can vary from age-related to genetic and medical issues. All puppies are born with soft, floppy ears. This is because the cartilage and muscles in their ears have not developed yet. Although some breeds, like Spaniels and Poodles, always have floppy ears, others, like most Shepherd breeds , almost always have pointy, pricked, upright ones. In such breeds, their ears should start to stand up between weeks of age as the bones and muscles in their bodies develop and strengthen. Are they both floppy — or is only one of them drooping whilst the other stands up normally? Teething Several young puppies experience floppy ears during teething. Teething is a period that all infant mammals go through, in which their baby or milk teeth fall out and their adult teeth grow in. It starts at around three weeks old and ends at months of age, although it can take longer. So, their bodies may draw calcium out of other areas, such as the ears, weakening their skeletal structure and making them flop. You may even notice that their ears look different every day during this period. They might be up-right one day, then floppy the next, or even change throughout the day depending on their mood. Their ears will return back to their original shape as soon as their hormones calm down. Although most German Shepherds have up-right ears, some can have floppy or semi-pricked ones. Judges of dog shows and competitions also often look for large ears in the breed. Poor nutrition during puppyhood As mentioned above, calcium is needed to develop and strengthen the cartilage in the ears in order for them to stand up. Vitamin D is also needed to keep bones healthy and strong. This is especially common in rescue dogs that come from puppy farms, homelessness, and neglectful backgrounds. Always buy from reputable breeders! Other symptoms of calcium and vitamin D deficiencies include muscle spasms and joint issues. If severe, nutrient deficiencies can be deadly. Both conditions require urgent veterinary attention, and treatments will likely include special diets and supplements. Similar to malnutrition, this is common in dogs that come from a background of neglect or homelessness. A build-up of wax, debris, or dirt can make the ears heavy and cause them to droop. Poor hygiene As we mentioned above, poor ear hygiene can lead to drooping of the ears. It can also lead to smelliness and infection. All dogs have self-cleaning mechanisms in their ears. However, allergies and hormone imbalances can cause disruptions to the mechanisms, meaning they require some extra care. Dogs can be allergic to environmental allergens like pollen, household cleaning products, and foods like wheat and dairy. Other symptoms of allergies can include skin irritation, coughing, sneezing, runny noses and eyes, and stomach upsets. Each has different symptoms, but they often include drastic changes in energy, coat, thirst, appetite, and weight. German Shepherds are also particularly prone to experiencing hormonal disorders. Ear mites Another cause of ear drooping in German Shepherds is ear mites. Ear mites can be picked up outdoors, or from coming into contact with another animal with the condition. The inflammation from the infestation can cause droopiness in the affected ear. Other symptoms include excessive itchiness, and redness, bleeding, and swelling from the constant scratching. If left untreated, the infestation can cause disease, which can lead to hearing loss and balance issues. Infection Ear infections can be bacterial or fungal, and they can affect both the inner or outer ear. They are most often picked up after exposure to water, and the inflammation can cause the affected ear to droop. Other symptoms can include redness, swelling, irritation, discharge, and excessive head shaking or scratching at the ear. Vets can treat ear infections with antibacterial or antifungal medications, but they need to be treated quickly before they spread or cause permanent damage. Trauma Physical trauma to the ears can also cause them to droop. The most common trauma that causes changes to the shape of the ears in German Shepherds are bites from fighting with other dogs. If your dog has a visible injury to their ear, you should take them to see their vet to check it over and dress any wounds to prevent infection. Make sure to brush your GSD regularly, also around the head and ears — these dogs shed heavily! You can get these over-the-counter at your vet, online, or in a pet store. You can also use a few drops of olive oil for wax build-up, but not too much. To administer, get a towel and ask your dog to lie down in a comfortable place in the home. Then, massage the mase of their ears for around 30 seconds to help it loosen any wax or dirt. Finally, allow your dog to shake their head and use the towel to catch what comes out. That said, if they have particularly problem ears, you should ask your vet and do it however often they suggest, which could be weekly or monthly. However, this is very controversial. It is not yet illegal in the USA, but it is also not something that we would recommend outside of medical necessity, as it can be unnecessarily stressful and painful for dogs. The method known as taping is done by placing something, usually tape, inside the ear to make it stand up straight and grow into that position permanently. It can be effective when done during puppyhood and usually takes weeks to work. As we mentioned above, nutritional deficiencies can cause the ears to flop. Puppies should eat nutritionally complete and balanced food that is enriched with calcium, vitamin D, and DHA for healthy bone and brain development, as well as high-quality protein sources like chicken and fish for strong muscles, and tasty, fiber-rich fruits and veggies. All puppies should have a handful of strong, hardy chew toys to avoid being destroyed during teething, but they can also help the ears to stand up. This is because the ears are connected to the jaw. So, strong jaw muscles means stronger ears, too! Finally, you should avoid playing too rough with your pup and interacting with boisterous dogs to prevent accidents and traumas, which, as we mentioned above, could damage or change the shape of their ears. Dogs communicate with us owners in many ways; they bark, they growl, and they use their bodies. Body language is a key part of understanding how your dog is feeling. Dogs use their entire bodies to communicate; including their tails, their eyes, and their ears! This often happens when a suspicious stranger or an unknown or unfriendly dog is approaching, or when there is a strange noise inside the home. When their ears go back or downwards, it could simply mean that they are listening, or it could indicate either excitement or anxiety. Excited dogs may whine, wag their tails very quickly, and run towards what they are excited about. This happens a lot when dogs are greeting a loved one. An anxious dog, on the other hand, may lower their head and cower their bodies away from what is causing their anxiety. If they are frightened, they may also tremble and whine, and if they are feeling angry or threatened, they may show their teeth and growl. This can happen when a dog is exposed to a phobia or an aggressive dog. It can be difficult to determine exactly how a mixed dog will look. Different pups from the same litter can also present with different traits from their siblings. That said, certain traits, like short hair, for example, are genetically dominant and therefore will be passed on over others, like long hair, which is genetically recessive. Dominant traits are those that require only one copy of a specific gene for the trait to be passed down to a pup. Recessive traits, on the other hand, need two copies; one from each parent. So, which is dominant; pricked or floppy ears? The answer is — floppy ears! Floppy ears are genetically dominant to pricked ears in dogs. That said, different ear shapes in dogs does tend to reflect their original working purpose. For example, the Spaniel, a gun dog, has floppy ears that gather and hold scent particles. This helped them track down what they were looking for much faster back in the day. German Shepherds, on the other hand, along with other wolf-like breeds, such as the Siberian Husky , have pricked, pointed ears. This is thought to aid their hearing during guard work, keep their body temperature under control during strenuous hunts, and give them an alert look to ward off predators. This may be why people are statistically more likely to perceive dogs with pricked ears as more threatening, according to research conducted by James Madison University, USA, in .This is not necessarily true, however, as any dog lover will know. It is likely down to something old and instinctual, as they also discovered that people perceived coat colors differently, too. The type of ears that a dog has can affect their hearing. Whether a dog has pricked ears or floppy ears, they have 18 different muscles that control them to funnel sounds from all different directions. A healthy-hearing dog of any kind can still hear from 40 to 60, hertz, which is more than double what human ears can hear! 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.

Shop All Cat Food If you have a dog with crooked teeth or bite alignment issues, you've probably wondered, "Can dogs get braces? Turns out dog braces exist, and they have for well over 30 years in veterinary dentistry and orthodontia to help dogs with painful or life-threatening dental problems. While humans usually wear braces for cosmetic issues, the goal of doggie orthodontia is to help a dog chew and eat normally. Can Dogs Get Braces? Dog braces can help with several dental conditions, including crowded teeth, misaligned teeth and lance teeth, which are upper canine teeth that abnormally point out of the mouth instead of down. Additional conditions that have been treated with braces in dogs include: Linguoversion: This is a condition when one or both of the canine teeth in the lower jaw erupt on the inside. Linguoversion is a problem seen in dogs with long and narrow noses, like collie breeds. Linguoversion is painful and doesn't allow the mouth to close properly. In severe cases, the condition can cause the abnormally placed canine teeth to poke holes in the roof of the mouth. Linguoversion requires treatment with either braces or removal of the abnormal canine teeth. Overbites: These occur when the lower jaw is shorter than the top jaw. Remaining Baby Teeth: When a dog's baby teeth don't fall out, it can lead to dental crowding, bite issues and periodontal disease. Surgery Aftercare: In situations where cancer treatment results in surgical removal of part of the jaw, braces can keep teeth from drifting out of position. If your dog is dropping food, acting head shy, has an overbite or if you notice any changes to their teeth, then it's time to consult with your veterinarian. Your vet is your best resource to tell you whether your dog needs braces, or if there's another dental issue. They'll conduct a full physical and dental exam and can point out any issues to you. Most dogs who have a condition that requires orthodontic treatment are diagnosed when they're young, usually between 4 and 6 months of age when the adult teeth come in. Similar to a human dentist, if your vet spots a problem, they may refer you to a veterinary dentist who specializes in canine orthodontia. Even if you're skeptical about dog braces, if your vet notices an issue in your dog's mouth, it's always a good idea to at least consult with a veterinary dentist to learn about treatment options and ask questions. In addition to the particular dental condition that a dog has, there are other factors to think about when considering getting your dog fitted for braces. Health One important factor is whether your dog is healthy enough to go under general anesthesia, as this is necessary to apply dog braces. Veterinary dentists also X-ray and clean the teeth while the dog is under anesthesia, if necessary. Depending on your dog's condition, several rounds of anesthesia may be required, depending on how fast a dog's teeth move. The good news is that the process isn't nearly as long or involved as in humans: Most dogs usually wear braces for weeks to a few months, while humans usually wear braces for a few years. However, the cost depends on several factors, including the size of your dog, the dental condition your dog has and how long your dog has to wear braces. One solution to reducing the cost of dog braces is to enroll in pet dental insurance. Caring for a dog with braces isn't difficult, but it does require you to regularly brush and inspect your dog's teeth. Fortunately, that's something you should be doing regularly anyway! If your dog is fitted with braces, brush your dog's teeth , apply an oral antiseptic and inspect the braces daily. Additionally, your dog may need to eat soft food while they have braces, and they shouldn't have access to any chew toys or bones to avoid breaking off the dental appliances. After your dog's braces are removed, they don't need a retainer to keep the teeth in place, and they can go back to regular food and chew toy happiness. Are There Other Treatment Options? Even though the answer to the question, "Can dogs get braces? Yes they can, and in most cases, braces are affordable and an easy way to correct your dog's dental problem. If you have cost concerns, ask your vet about getting a pet insurance policy for your dog that covers medically necessary orthodontic treatments. Contributor Bio Dr. Sarah Wooten is a well-known international speaker in the veterinary and animal health care spaces. She has 10 years experience in public speaking and media work, and writes for a large number of online and print animal health publications. Wooten has spoken in the veterinary education space for 5 years, and speaks on leadership, client communication, and personal development. Wooten is also a certified veterinary journalist, a member of the AVMA, and has 16 years experience in small animal veterinary practice. In addition, she is a co-creator of the wildly popular card game 'Vets Against Insanity'. When it is time to play, she can be found skiing in Colorado or diving with sharks in the Caribbean. Go big.To learn more, visit drsarahwooten. Your dog should remain behind you and never come in front of you or pull on the lead. Heel: Your dog is to walk with you on your left, with his leg in line with your leg. You must be extremely consistent at maintaining your dog walk with you this way. The dog should come to you immediately and be in a sit position directly in front of you, preferably looking at you. Remember, Master always wins! You will point to the bed as you direct your dog to it and make him lay down on it. It is important that you are consistent with this. Every time he tries to leave the bed on his own will, you must give him a correction with the tab and direct him into the action you want him to do. Off: Means to get all paws off of whatever they are on. If your dog does not listen you will grab the table and give a correction immediately directing the dog to an action you would like him to do. Out: Dog is to release item from mouth. Kennel: Dog is to go into crate. Quiet: Dog must stop barking. If he does not stop barking use, Bitter Apple and squirt directly onto his nose or give a correction that will stop the behavior. OK: Releases your dog from any command. Remember: Be Consistent.

References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Canine atopic dermatitis is a genetically-predisposed inflammatory and pruritic itchy allergic skin disease with characteristic clinical features. Allergic diseases result from an exaggerated immune system response that causes pathological damage. Some of the immune cells which help defend the body produce proteins called antibodies when stimulated to do so. Antibodies help the immune cells get rid of the pathogens invading the body. Anything that stimulates the immune system is called an antigen. Antigens are normally parts of the invading pathogen, but sometimes otherwise harmless substances stimulate an immune response in individuals who are prone to allergies and exaggerated immune responses. Any substance that can stimulate an allergic immune response is called an allergen. Atopy is associated with the immune system over-producing a type of antibodies called IgE. The clinical features of atopy are variable but the permanent cardinal feature, always present, is itchiness, which varies in degree from mild to severe. A dog may be itchy over its whole skin but more usually the itchiness is localised. The commonest areas to be affected are the ears, around the eyes, the muzzle, the underside of the neck and abdomen, the inside of the legs, the feet and under the tail Nuttall et al .In the early stages of the disease there may just be itchiness, however, redness of the skin will soon be seen. This may be general redness or red spots papules. Further problems arise either from long-term itchiness and the self harm that is caused from scratching, rubbing and chewing of the itchy area or from the presence of skin infections with bacteria both abnormally high numbers of normal skin bacteria and infections from bacteria not usually present and with skin yeasts normally present in low numbers. Atopy itself and the secondary skin changes that occur both make these infections more likely. Infected skin tends to itch and the consequential scratching, rubbing and chewing causes further, secondary skin damage and a vicious circle of itching and scratching and worsening skin damage develops. For many atopic dogs this means constant itchiness as it is often impossible to avoid constant exposure to its problematic allergen - house dust mite. Secondary skin changes often seen in atopic dogs include: lichenification thickening of the skin , a coat that is greasy and scaly dandruff and loss of fur alopecia. Pustules and crusts are seen when there is bacterial infection and, when this is deeper in the skin, nodules with pus draining from sinuses may be seen. Otitis externa inflammation of the ear canal is often seen in atopic dogs and sometimes is the main clinical problem. This follows the same pattern as atopic disease elsewhere — the ear canal is lined with skin. Initially there may just be redness but constant irritation, excess secretions and thickening of the skin with secondary bacterial and yeast infections lead to a vicious cycle until the ear canal becomes irreversibly damaged. The clinical signs include scratching at the ears, head shaking, rubbing the ears on the ground, a smelly discharge from the ears. Severe infections can lead to septicaemia bacterial infection in the bloodstream. There are currently two main theories for the pathogenesis of atopy and there is good evidence that both are important. Atopic individuals have an abnormal immune response. Allergens are detected in the skin by the immune system. In atopic individuals there is an imbalance of two types of immune cell ie more T helper 2 lymphocytes and fewer T helper 1 lymphocytes. This imbalance leads to other changes in the immune system, which make it respond excessively to small amounts of allergen in the future, easily generating skin inflammation. Excessive amounts of an antibody type IgE are present in the body. A second fundamental abnormality seen in atopic individuals is that they have a skin barrier defect. Their skin suffers from increased water loss and foreign substances such as allergens, bacteria and yeast can penetrate more easily than normal. This allows more contact of the allergens with the immune system see above. Allergens from the house dust mite Dermatophagoides farina are the most important. Allergies to other mites such as Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Euroglyphus maynei, Acarus siro and Tyrophagus putrescentiae are either less common or may be largely due to cross reaction with D. Cross-reactions occur when a test detects one substance rather than another. Sensitivity to pollens can certainly be important but are usually seasonal in the UK. Many types of tree pollens are involved in canine atopy, and grass pollens are commonly involved. There are also many weeds implicated in canine atopy eg ragweed, plantain and mugwort. The importance of mould allergens in canine atopy is uncertain. Other allergens which have been considered of importance in the past, but which are no longer, include cockroach and other insects, house dust, fabrics such as cotton, wool and linen. An important concept in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis is that of the pruritic threshold. An individual may not be itchy just because it is atopic eg if it is mildly atopic. It may need another factor to combine with the atopy to tip it over the threshold of having clinical signs. So, various factors that can cause itchy skin may combine. In some dogs, just having one or two of these factors may not cause a problem but if a third or fourth occurs then disease will follow. An inherited atopic state is an important predisposing factor in many animals and a leading cause of welfare problems in dogs. They may also include environmental factors such as flea infestation or a dry climate. One important environmental influence may be the degree of early exposure to allergens for genetically predisposed individuals. There is evidence that prolonged and more intensive exposure to allergens in early life makes atopic dermatitis more likely and also that it is more likely to be severe. This is the case both for house dust mite allergens de Weck , de Weck et al and for pollens; pollen allergies may be more common in puppies born during the pollen season Halliwell .Return to top 2. The primary itch due to atopy itself varies from mild to severe between individuals. It may also vary according to the season and environment that the dog is experiencing ie whether it is housed indoors or outside and where it is exercising, for example a dog allergic mostly to grasses may be better at the seaside than walking through meadows. Skin infections worsen the condition and their severity can vary. Atopy can cause great suffering in moderately-severely affected dogs due to the constant skin itching and irritation and the secondary damage that is done by the dog to its skin creating sore inflamed areas that are uncomfortable and possibly painful. Atopy can be difficult to control medically and suffering can be difficult to avoid during the time when a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is being confirmed. This can be a prolonged and involved procedure see below. Treatment of atopic dermatitis usually involves drugs. The most effective treatments are based on corticosteroids or ciclosporin, both of which can have significant side effects with their own welfare issues. Some atopic dogs become seriously ill due to the side effects of treatment. Frequent shampooing is often required which may be unpleasant for some dogs. Dogs are euthanized because of atopic dermatitis. This is often because diagnosis and treatment are time-consuming and expensive for owners and reasonable long-term control is often the best that can be achieved rather than there being any hope of cure. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Signs of atopy can be seen in some individuals from the age of months. More usually signs start between the ages of months. It is unusual for signs to start after three years. Some dogs have seasonal problems when its pollen allergens that they are allergic to but often dogs that had seasonal problems when younger will develop problems lasting all year round when they are older. Without treatment affected dogs will have the problem for life although the severity will usually wax and wane according to the amount of allergens they are exposed to at any given time, secondary infections, any exacerbating factors such as catching fleas and the weather, and the success of treatments. Treatment of atopic dermatitis is involved and lifelong. Drugs are used in most dogs and these are often required constantly. Return to top 4. A study by Shaw et al investigated the pedigrees of dogs used as guide dogs for the blind that had been diagnosed with clinically significant atopic dermatitis. From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are Labrador retrievers Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around 1 million. Return to top 5. Diagnosis The diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is complicated. There is no characteristic clinical sign or laboratory test result that enables the diagnosis to be made. Over the years there have been various attempts to create formal schemes to aid this process Willemse , Prelaud et al .The currently favoured scheme was created and tested by Favrot et al and its use clarified by Olivry .The Favrot diagnostic criteria for canine atopic dermatitis - used alongside the elimination of other possible causes of the signs see below. This means that if dogs were diagnosed, using this scheme alone, then 21 of this would have the wrong diagnosis — they actually have another cause of their disease, not atopy. Furthermore, there would have been another 15 dogs that actually do have atopy but had been excluded because the five criteria needed have not been found. For these reasons the scheme can not be used alone. The difficulties arise because all the clinical signs of atopic dermatitis are also seen in other common skin diseases. In order to make any of these schemes more reliable they have to be combined with tests that seek to excluded these other conditions. Mange mite infestations , and bacterial and yeast infections are ruled out by examinations of skin samples and trial treatments. Contact irritation and allergy is ruled out by avoidance of potential causes. Fleas are ruled out by trial treatment. Some rarer skin diseases may need to be ruled out by skin biopsy. Tests can be performed to identify which allergens are involved for a particular atopic dog. Unfortunately, these tests are not reliable in determining whether a dog is atopic or not and results of these tests are not used in making the diagnosis Favrot et al .Allergy testing can be performed using blood tests or intra-dermal into the skin injections. Return to top 6. The heritability of atopy has been studied by Shaw et al .When considering guide dogs as a whole, a heritability of 0. The majority of these dogs were Labrador retrievers but Golden retrievers and Labrador-Golden retriever crosses were also represented. Given that all these puppies were raised in similar conditions it is reasonable to say that about half of the factors that caused them to have clinical atopic dermatitis were genetic and half were environmental. Canine atopic dermatitis is likely to be one manifestation of canine atopy. There is evidence for an important dominant gene; at least in one line of Beagles de Weck , de Weck et al .A start has been made to investigate specific genes involved in several breeds, including the Labrador retriever but, as yet, there are few publications available Wood et al .Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? This has not been scientifically tested. There are no genetic tests to guide us. In common with other polygenetic disorders with important environmental influences, it may be considered that any affected individual or an individual with an affected close relative parent or sibling should not be considered for breeding. However, this advice has not been tested and other considerations such as narrowing the gene pool and concurrent genetic diseases, such as hip dysplasia must also be considered. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem It may be considered that individuals with atopic dermatitis should not be used for breeding. This would include any affected individual, even if only mildly affected. This is because environmental factors are certainly important in whether an atopic individual has clinical signs and how bad they are. Not breeding from animals with a close relative that has suffered from any degree of atopic dermatitis would also be recommended, based on general information given for reducing disease resulting from polygenetic conditions Bell .But considerations should be given to not overbreed from individuals that are healthy, as far as atopy goes, which could have other problems as this could have unintended and undesirable genetic consequences Oberbauer .In breeds, such as the Labrador retriever, it may be necessary to widen the gene pool by introducing genes from other breeds. Return to top 9. Meat by-products Cheap fillers The elimination diet consists of a trial period in which you expose your pet to foods one at a time to rule out possible allergens. In fact, it will probably be easier if you prepare fresh ingredients from scratch so no artificial preservatives are introduced. A Sample Elimination Diet Using Hypoallergenic Ingredients Note: Just because a source of food is considered hypoallergenic does not rule out the possibility that it will cause an allergy in your dog. Dogs all have their unique immune systems, and hypoallergenic ingredients are just a starting point. Week One: Cooked ground bison mixed with mashed sweet potatoes. Week Two: If itching persists, switch out the bison for cooked ground turkey. Week Three: If itching persists, switch out the turkey for cooked white fish. You can also swap out the sweet potatoes for millet. At this point, you can also add in some cooked greens like kale, broccoli, or spinach. Be sure to note any sensitivities to new foods as you introduce them. High-quality hypoallergenic foods will also have fewer ingredients, making it easier to find potential allergens. When you choose a commercial dog food, be sure to feed your dog ONLY that food for a full week. When Stetson had skin allergies our vet recommended testing different commercial foods and it seemed that we had success switching him to Wellness Core Grain Free Dog Food. However, looking back I think it was an environmental switch that helped his allergies we moved to a new home. Try antihistamines — Antihistamines, like Benadryl, can alleviate allergic reactions in some situations. If you decide to try Benadryl, be aware that there are some mild side effects. Always follow the recommendation of your veterinarian. We covered the pros and cons of giving your dog Benadryl in this article. Always provide fresh drinking water. It must be used in conjunction with intradermal skin testing. Once the allergens have been confirmed, your veterinary dermatologist can desensitize your dog to the allergen by injecting an altered, weekend version into the skin. Shots are usually administered weekly over the course of several months. Cyclosporine — This medication can be used successfully for seasonal allergies or other types of atopy. Steroids — Steroids will help relieve extreme itching and inflammation, but they do have short and long-term side effects. They should be used sparingly and reserved for very serious conditions. Oclacitinib — This is a relatively new treatment that shows promise for treating allergic reactions to fleas, food, and environmental allergies. Cytokines help cells communicate with each other and promote itching and inflammation in dogs who have allergies. Read more about Oclacitinib on Pet MD. Vitamin E — If your dog has small problem spots, you can open up a vitamin E capsule and massage it into the skin. This will moisturize, alleviate some of the itching, and help prevent infection. Aloe Vera — This plant is commonly used to soothe sunburn in humans, but it is just as useful when treating skin conditions in dogs. If you buy commercial aloe vera, be sure that aloe vera is the first ingredient, and stay away from harsh chemicals. Calendula Tea Compresses — Calendula flowers have been used to treat skin conditions for centuries. Steep the dried flowers in hot water to make a strong tea. Apply the cooled tea directly to problem areas using a washcloth. You can also by calendula salves and sprays commercially. Epsom Salt Soak — This is helpful for paws that are red and raw. Fill a tub with warm water and a few tablespoons of Epsom salt. Have your dog stand in the water for soothing relief. Final Thoughts on Dealing with Dog Skin Allergies Diagnosing and treating dog skin allergies is a complex and difficult task, but with patience and perseverance, it will be a life changer for your dog. Your dog will thank you. Do you have an itchy scratchy dog? Have you done anything that helps? Tells us about your dog in the comment section below. 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 to 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. Please visit Prevent the Spread of Dog Flu to learn about how to protect your pets and to get the latest information about dog flu outbreaks. These dogs are so popular for some great reasons: Bouncy, cheerful, loyal, and enthusiastic Good with kids and other pets Above-average intelligence and trainability when positive reinforcement training methods are used Loves to play games, especially fetch People-oriented and eager to please Even temper and gentle disposition However, no dog is perfect! Labs originated in Newfoundland in the s and were bred from St. They were valued by fisherman for their trainability, trustworthiness, and work ethic. Fulfilling their retriever name, they would dive into icy cold waters to help pull in fishing nets and occasionally catch stray fish that had escaped. Today the Labrador comes in two varieties: the American tall and lanky or English short and stocky. Both American and English ancestries present all three color versions—black, blonde, and brown. When given plenty of vigorous exercise and attention, these sweethearts are gentle and well-behaved in the home. All you need is a ball to throw and your Lab will love you for life! The Labrador Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. Your Labrador Retriever's Health We know that because you care so much about your dog , you want to take good care of her. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Labrador. By knowing about health concerns specific to Labrador Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Labrador Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Labrador Retrievers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Lab looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Lab is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. In fact, your Lab's life span may even be cut short by one to three years! Infections Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Labrador Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Parasites All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Lab's body, inside and out. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Labrador is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Labrador Retrievers Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Labrador is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a chronic liver disease called hepatitis that may develop around middle age. Hepatitis is usually diagnosed through blood testing or liver biopsy, and can be treated with medication and special diets. Signs of liver disease do not usually occur until most of the liver is already damaged or destroyed, so early detection and intervention through routine blood screening is essential for early treatment. Bleeding Disorders Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test as we may not otherwise know whether your pet has hemophilia until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic. His gums will look whitish or yellow instead of a normal bright pink color. Sometimes an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Labrador Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend's bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Stiffness in your Labrador's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! The cranial cruciate ligament is one of four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, including your Lab. Usually, surgical correction can stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary for the best outcomes. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like when playing Frisbee are key in avoiding these painful injuries. When Labrador puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bones properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans, or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Our recommended growth rate for Labrador Retriever puppies is no more than four pounds per week. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or regular puppy diet. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Labs have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Bleeding Tumor Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Labrador Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Labrador Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Eye Problems Not many things have as dramatic an impact on your dog's quality of life as the proper functioning of his eyes. Unfortunately, Labrador Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Hyperadrenocorticism Cushing's Cushing's Disease is a malfunction of the adrenal glands that causes them to produce too much steroid hormone. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Lab is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Reactive seizures are caused by the brain's reaction to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Labrador Retrievers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue. It won't help him, and he may bite you accidentally! Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some breeds like your Labrador can be born with a variety of heart defects. Defects can also cause problems with heart valve function or the electrical signals that control the heartbeat. Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or if you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting. Exercise Induced Collapse Exercise induced collapse, or EIC, is just what it sounds like — a young, apparently healthy Labrador collapses to the ground suddenly while exercising. After a few minutes, the weakness passes and he is able to get up again. Dogs affected with EIC cannot run or exert themselves for long periods of time, especially not in hot weather, so a day of hunting or strenuous hiking is not a good idea for these pets. Heat stroke can also occur in conjunction with EIC. Genetic testing can be done to diagnose this disease and to screen dogs before breeding. Muscle Disease Labrador Retrievers may develop a disease of the muscles called myopathy between three and seven months of age. Physical signs of myopathy include bunny hopping, loss of muscle tone in the limbs, a stiff gait, and carrying the head low. Typically, affected pets are treated through reduced stress and occasionally with medication as well. Most dogs with myopathy are stabilized by twelve months of age and are able to have a normal life span. While they are suitable as house companions, strenuous exercise is not recommended, so no hunting or working! Taking Care of Your Labrador Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Lab live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Labrador Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She's a smart dog with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active, or she'll get bored. That's when the naughty stuff starts. Always walk your Lab on a leash as she has a tendency to run off after interesting smells and people. She has a passion for water, and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Labrador Retriever needs help. In case the scratching persists, you can return to old food as that was not the allergen causing the itch in the first place. Remember, the numbers of food allergies in dogs are extremely low! You should start with the lowest-effort solution and slowly work your way up to the highest-investment solution. The earlier part of this article will help you determine whether the itch is contact-based or due to an inhaled allergen. Simply holding your current stash while getting a different brand is a decent step in the right direction. For some ideas and greater insight into what to feed your dog, check out my comprehensive guide, Best Diet for Labradors: Nutrition, Types, and More! Remove Items your Lab has Recently Come in Contact With Whether your Labrador has a new pillow or the wallpaper near his bed has been recently changed, you need to subtract the things introduced just before he started itching from his environment. An easy way to do this is to note the rough date when your dog started scratching himself. Then note the date a week or two before that and start auditing your living space to observe which new things have been added. If this controls the itching, you may deduce a seasonal problem. Here are some steps you can take to minimize his environmental allergies: Keep Your Doors and Windows Shut at All Times — This will prevent excessive dust and pollen from entering your living space. Use an Air Purifier — By collecting tiny particles like dust, pollen, and mold spores, air purifiers help create a cleaner, healthier atmosphere. Groom Regularly to Get Rid of Pollen and Dust — Labradors have two coats and require a lot of grooming throughout the year. To prevent allergies, I use the FURminator de-shedding tool from Amazon, which works well because it penetrates the undercoat and safely removes loose hair and any nasty allergens! Shower and Change When You Return Home — The urge to hug your best friend as soon as you return from work or even a grocery trip is always quite strong. This includes bedposts, tables, and chairs. Use a Dehumidifier — Dehumidifiers remove moisture from your home. By drying the air, allergy triggers are minimized, and symptoms are alleviated. You can also prevent mold with the use of dehumidifiers. You can use my recommended products, depending on compatibility, alongside the protective measures. That way, you may not need to implement drastic changes if they help eliminate the problem. Remember to check with your vet first before using any of them. Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo Whether your Labrador loves baths or is reluctant to get one, an itch-relief shampoo is his best friend. So expect to give your Labrador frequent baths with this shampoo. When you walk your dog, airborne allergens can often stick to his coat. This spray is excellent for itching caused in a specific spot. Due to fleas, dryness, or contact, simply spraying it on the irritated area will bring immediate relief to your dog. By moisturizing and getting rid of dryness and other irritants in the process, it prevents your Lab from scratching or biting and causing further damage to the itchy area. If your Labrador licks himself to relieve the itch, you may need to use shampoo instead. Allergy Supplements — Chews Speaking of products that are safe for oral consumption, I recommend allergy immunity supplements. Many supplements are available on the market, but their effectiveness varies drastically. Final Thoughts Your Labrador may be itching and scratching because of canine atopic dermatitis or an allergic reaction to airborne, food, or contact-based allergens. Either way, the best solution is to eliminate the cause by reducing his exposure to the allergen. You can also try washing him with anti-allergy shampoo and give him allergy immunity supplements. Related Posts You May Like:. How do you change dog scratching habits? The answer is to find the underlying reason why the dog keeps scratching and treat that. This article will take a look at some possibilities. Why is my dog scratching so much? A dog licking and scratching themselves raw is only a symptom. The trick to stop dog scratching is to pinpoint the driving force. The most common triggers for excessive scratching in dogs are parasites or allergies. A vet is best able to track down the problem. Seek a professional opinion sooner rather than later, before the dog damages their skin and creates complications. Itchy and Scratchy Symptoms Does your dog sleep on the bed? As an owner, take note of where the dog scratches. This gives the vet clues as to the nature of the problem. What Can You Look For? In fact, a dog scratching is not the only clue to itchiness. Some like to scoot their faces across the carpet or commando-crawl on their bellies across concrete as a means of quelling an itch. Then there are the lickers. Licking can also be a sign of itchiness. A tell-tale sign of a secretive licker is brown saliva-staining of the fur. The classic places to check include the paws, butt, and belly. This results in hair loss or skin infections, which require treatment. When to Seek Help Does this sound familiar? To ignore the problem means risking complications such as yeast infections causing greasy skin or bacterial invaders creating weeping sores. Indeed, any change in habits could mean the dog is uncomfortable. Something as simple as a dog scratching their face could be a clue to any number of issues, from a grass awn stuck in the ear canal to sore teeth. A dog scratching and losing hair or making their skin red definitely needs to be checked by a vet. Get your canine companion seen at the earliest hint of discomfort, and dodge unnecessary distress. What Causes Dog Scratching? Just like mosquito or flea bites irritate human skin, the same can happen to dogs. Indeed, some dogs even have an allergy to flea bites, which makes them super-itchy. Fleas are public enemy number one when it comes to dog scratching. But when going on a flea hunt, be aware that fleas hop on to feed, but actually live off-dog in soft furnishings or the yard. A different species to human head lice, but super-itchy regardless Sarcoptic Mange Mites: These highly infectious scavenger mites are common on wildlife Parasites play such a leading role in a dog licking and scratching that the vet will eradicate bugs first, before doing other tests. Allergies and the Urge to Scratch Do you suffer the misery of hay fever? The runny nose and streaming eyes are due to an allergy to pollen. You guessed it! Allergies make dogs itchy. Unfortunately, dogs can be allergic to anything from pollens to grass sap, from perfume to air freshener, from dust mites to mold spores. Unfortunately, scratching and licking damages the skin. This can allow secondary invaders in, such as yeasts and bacteria. Why is My Dog Scratching so Much? Reaching a Diagnosis First off, go on a flea hunt. Look for those tell-tale flecks of dark dust in the coat. Capture some on a piece of damp cotton wool. In this scenario, the first step is to treat the dog against fleas. If the dog scratching has not improved a month later, the vet may suggest further investigation. Typical actions include: Running a blood test to detect sarcoptes mites Bathing the dog with medicated shampoo to strength skin health A course of antibiotics if infection is present Still itchy? The dog is put on a hypoallergenic diet for eight weeks, in case they have a food allergy Oh dear, still itchy! Blood or skin tests for allergies A skin biopsy How to Stop a Dog from Scratching: Treatment You can do a surprising amount at home to make an itchy dog more comfortable. The vet will attempt to identify and treat the cause of the itch. This includes using antibiotics, medicated shampoos, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Options for Treatment If an allergy is diagnosed, there are options for treatment. These include: Immunotherapy vaccines: A bespoke vaccine is developed. The idea is that giving small, but increasing amounts of allergen. This allows the immune system to get used to the allergen and turn off the unwanted exaggerated response. Biological therapies: The latest kid-on-the-block is Cytopoint. It takes out the pathway that triggers the itch, stopping it from developing. Sadly, both of the above are expensive. However, there are a wide range of anti-inflammatory drugs which are also highly beneficial: Steroids: Inexpensive and extremely effective. Cyclosporine Atopica : Originally developed to prevent organ rejection in transplant medicine, these help switch off the unwanted immune response. Effective and relatively side-effect-free, but expensive! Oclacitinib Apoquel : A relatively new anti-itch medication, this works really well for some dogs and is almost side-effect-free. Sadly, this also is expensive. A dog scratching because of parasites can be cured. Getting rid of the bugs stops the itch. This means taking lots of small steps. Making several minor changes adds up to a big increase in comfort. Strategies to reduce the itch include: Limiting exposure to allergens Washing allergens off the skin Controlling secondary infections, such as yeasts or bacteria Use of therapies such as immunotherapy vaccines Drugs to reduce the itch Why is My Dog Scratching so Much? The occasional lazy scratch of the ear is quite normal. Excessive scratching in dogs is not. Common things like fleas are an obvious cause of itchiness. If in doubt see the vet early, to avoid unnecessary complications such as hair loss or infections. Do Fleas Die In Winter? References and Resources Diaz, S. The five most common types of allergies are food allergies, flea allergies, contact allergies, inhalant allergies, and bacterial allergies. Labrador Food Allergies Food allergies in Labrador Retrievers are caused by allergic reactions to common ingredients in dog food such as beef, corn, soy, fish, wheat, chicken, and chicken eggs. Common symptoms include: itchy skin often around the muzzle or face hair loss frequent bowel movements and skin infections. Antihistamines and occasionally antibiotics can be used to help dogs with extreme food allergies. But if your Lab has a food allergy, the symptoms will return when the treatment is stopped. Elimination diets with limited ingredients work well for most dogs with food allergies. Most common dog food brands on the market offer hypoallergenic formulas. These recipes are free of some of the most common allergens we talked about earlier: corn, soy, beef, chicken, chicken eggs, fish, and wheat. You can also consider feeding a raw diet consisting of unprocessed meats and veggies. FAD occurs when a flea bites an animal, injecting its saliva into the skin. Your dog will most likely be susceptible to FAD during the summer months. Because fleas thrive best in warm temperatures with humidity. Early warning signs of FAD include itchy, irritated skin. This in turn causes red, inflamed patches of skin called hot spots. Flea bites occur most often on the back and at the base of the tail. In severe cases, you might notice hair loss, oozing, or dark, crusty skin. The easiest way to prevent flea allergies in Labrador Retrievers is to groom your dog regularly , and apply a flea preventative such as Frontline during flea season. If your Lab does develop an allergic reaction to a flea bite, there are several methods of killing fleas instantly. Make sure to remove all traces of fleas both from him and from your home. Sometimes your Lab can develop a yeast infection as a result of a flea bite. In which case you might notice an unpleasant odor. Vets will often prescribe antibiotics and a short course of prednisone to relieve his itchy skin. Taking preventative measures, however, and regularly observing your dog for early warning signs during flea season, can help to mitigate the problem. Canine Contact Allergies Contact allergies occur when your Lab develops an allergic reaction to noxious or irritating substances in the environment. These can include dyes, carpet deodorizers, or antibiotics applied to the skin. Rubber, wool, certain metals like nickel , poison ivy sap, and salt on the road can also cause allergic reactions. The allergic reaction usually develops on areas of the skin with little or no hair. Such as the backs of the paws, the muzzle, and the lower abdomen. These areas of the skin are most likely to come into direct contact with the irritant. In order to treat a contact allergy, your vet needs to use patch or exclusion tests to determine what allergen your Lab is reacting to. Patch tests involve a small amount of the allergen being rubbed on the skin. Inhalant Allergies in Labradors Inhalant allergies also called atopic allergies or atopy are the second most common allergy in Labs after FAD. They are caused by an allergic reaction to airborne or inhaled allergens like mold, dust, or pollen. Simply put, think of atopy as the canine equivalent of hay fever in people. Like FAD, inhalant allergies usually affect dogs during the spring and summer months. Atopic Labradors will develop very itchy skin and will usually bite and scratch themselves, often on the legs, face, ears, groin, and armpit areas. Red, irritated skin and hair loss are the most common warning signs as well as yeast infections in the skin and ears. Your vet will likely perform one of two allergy tests on your dog to determine what is causing the allergic reaction. An intra-dermal or skin allergy test involves injecting a small amount of an allergen into his skin and watching for a reaction. The second test, the IgE allergy test, involves taking a blood sample from your Lab to test for IgE antibodies against specific airborne allergens. If a high number of IgE antibodies exist, this is usually a sign of an inhalant allergy. There are several ways to treat inhalant allergies. Allergy shots involve a serum containing the allergen to which your dog reacts. Over time, the injections can desensitize them to the allergen, reducing the symptoms. Your vet might also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids or antihistamines to relieve symptoms like itching and skin irritation. Since allergies often cause skin irritation and hair loss, your Lab can often develop lesions or inflamed pustules. For these, your vet will likely proscribe topical medications like ointments and sprays as well as a round of antibiotics. The vet will look for evidence that the infection is symptomatic of a more serious medical condition. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own.

Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. Introducing our new boy Ch. However, we strive for high quality toy poodles and only once in awhile we will have tiny toy poodles or teacup poodles available. We specialize in the dark chocolate brown toy poodle puppies but also breed for dark red, apricot and blacks in color. Each will have a five-generation pedigree. Some years ago I received a little black female Toy Poodle for Christmas. We named her "Precious" and she was the first poodle I had ever owned. Well, that was the beginning of a forever relationship with the most wonderful little God given creature I had ever known. Our kennel name "Azizi" means "Precious Little Treasure" in Swahili and that is truly what our little girl is to us. In my previous life before poodles , I had raised and showed Chows and Samoyeds in the conformation show ring. During that time, I owned and operated a boarding kennel and grooming parlor. We successfully bred our "Precious" to a black champion. From this litter, I was awarded my beautiful little "Ebony" who is pictured within the 'Girls" tab. That experience was the beginning of a love affair with this sweet little breed. I now am a small hobby breeder of loving companion and show prospect puppies. I love the Chocolate Brown Poodle personality. They are loving and are also little comedians. The Red toy poodles are a little demanding but are also love bugs. Having had 35 years plus of raising several different breeds, my goal is to breed for the healthiest, happiest, sound of mind and body toy poodles that I possibly can. I will always bear in mind to aim for the AKC standards. All of our puppies are raised in our home with us and are pre-spoiled. Each puppy is well socialized and experiences potty training from an early age. I am extremely conscientious about the long-term health conditions of all of our poodles. Therefore, I only will be breeding sound of mind and body poodles, trying to eliminate any potential problems. Being able to improve the quality of life by placing one of our puppies gives us a huge blessing. For that reason, our emphasis and goal will be to provide as many service animals as our breeding program will create. Unfortunately, a few of our puppies simply do not possess the innate qualities needed to fill that category. In that case, we make them available as a pet. They do not live in kennels and never will.Thanks for visiting my website. Please come back soon or feel free to call me at Judy Stewart In case of any unforeseen disagreement, I maintain the right to refuse the sale of any puppy to anyone. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Idaho? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Idaho. Poodles come at different prices. Different things to consider are their height, size and weight, color as well as experience of the professional breeder. You will be able to afford one! Can breeders arrange travel for Idaho Poodles out of state? Yes they do! The breeders, companies and businesses in our network know that perfect families do not always live close by, and sometimes far-distance travel arrangements have to be made. You may even be able to pick up your pup from an airplane close by or even around the corner - it all depends! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Idaho? We really care about puppies and their well being, so it is of the utmost importance that anyone who wants to be connected to us is screened under strict rules - and then they have to take our Breeder Pledge. The health of your puppy-to-be, its wellbeing, the way it is taken care of, the place it is brought up in - all of this matters to us. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other miniature Poodle breeders Idaho? The internet is available to absolutely everybody - and that includes scrupulous breeders who are out there just wanting to cash in by selling puppies. We care deeply for dogs and puppies and we love connecting good and honest breeders with families who just want to open their homes to a new and wonderful puppy. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Idaho? A puppy mill is an awful place that is unfortunately legal. Dogs are treated terribly and all their owners want from them are their puppies which they make money out of. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Idaho for sale now? We just need to know a little bit about yourself and exactly what you are looking for. Then begin your search and find the Poodle of your dreams. There are breeders, companies and businesses out there that are really excited to place their beautiful puppies in your home. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Idaho? Poodles are actually part of a group of formal dog breeds. The Poodle is available in Toy size, Miniature size and large, regal, Standard size. They are highly intelligent and their origins belong to both Germany and France. How do I know I can trust you with miniature Poodle puppies in Idaho? It is hard to monitor all the puppy scams that happen daily on the internet so we make sure that we have a secure Breeder Pledge and a strict screening process, in order to create the best of relationships between our customers and our breeders, companies and businesses. Our reviews reveal all!

Pin19 19 Shares Are you wondering if your French Bulldog can eat fruit? Selecting the right food for your French Bulldog is critical since some foods will lead to health problems, with some even being toxic enough to kill your dog. Can French Bulldogs eat fruit? The bottom line is, French Bulldogs can eat most fruits. Just be careful to remove the seeds, any cores, and some of the skins before feeding it as a snack and in moderation. You should never feed French Bulldogs grapes or raisins because they are poisonous to dogs and can lead to liver failure. With each one I will explain the benefits and negative consequences that may arise if consumed by your Frenchie. Handy Hint: Download the easy to read list of fruits your French Bulldog can eat, plus the ones that are dangerous and need to be avoided, scroll to the bottom of the page. You can print it off and keep it in your kitchen. The download link is in yellow at the bottom of the page. Can French Bulldogs eat apples? Frenchies can eat apple as long as the core and seeds are removed from this fruit; the seeds contain toxic levels of cyanide for dogs if eaten in large quantities. Apples can make a fantastic treat for your French Bulldog. Apples provide antioxidants, and are loaded with vitamins A and C, which helps to promote healthy bones, joints, and tissue. This is especially good for Frenchies, who are prone to developing joint issues and arthritis as they age. Apples also have something called pectin in them. Pectin is a type of soluble fiber that aids in battling excessive blood sugar, diabetes, and it helps dissolve cholesterol. It also helps keep diarrhoea at bay. Handy Hint: Click here to read more information about apples and how you can prepare it for your Frenchie. Apples are a fruit high in fibre and low in fat, which makes them a good alternative for the Frenchie on a diet! Additionally, they can be a good treat for senior dogs who need to restrict their meat and protein intake. As apples are low in protein and fat, they can prove to be a healthy and tasty option for the aging Frenchie. Can French Bulldogs eat apricots? The seeds can be dangerous as they can be toxic to dogs. However, apricots are full of fiber, iron, potassium and beta carotene which are both great for digestion. If you really do want to feed your Frenchie some apricot, always give it them sliced and diced with no pits present. Can French Bulldogs eat avocado? Frenchies should not eat avocado as it is a very dangerous fruit for them. It has persin in it which is a chemical toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. Avocados also have large stones inside of them, so avoid leaving this fruit anywhere within touching distance of your curious and greedy Frenchie. Can French Bulldogs eat bananas? Frenchies can eat bananas. This fruit is full of fiber but are also full of calories and sugar so feed it to your dog sparingly. Bananas can also lead to constipation, but if they have diarrhoea, it may aid in getting rid of it. Rich in potassium, bananas can aid heart and kidney health. However, bananas should be an occasional snack, and also make sure you remove the peel before feeding it to them. Can French Bulldogs eat blackberries? Frenchies can eat blackberries. They are high in antioxidants which help to fight the free radicals in their body and come with lots of vitamins and fiber too. Blackberries are a fruit low in sugar and calories, making them healthy treats and ideal for weight management. As with the other berries on this list, its best to stay away from anything that adds sugar to these options; such as blackberry juices, pies, yoghurts, and sauces. Can French Bulldogs eat blueberries? Frenchies can eat blueberry. Blueberries have lots of antioxidants and are rich in phytonutrients. Can French Bulldogs eat cantaloupe? Frenchies can eat cantaloupe melon fruit, but due to the high sugar content it should be given very sparingly. Frenchies can be prone to diabetes, so you may want to avoid this fruit if your pet has weight problems. This food choice also comes with lots of vitamins C, B, and A, as well as antioxidants making it a good fruit for digestive health and immune system strengthening. As with the other fruits mentioned, take out the seeds, remove the melon skin, and cut it up into smaller fleshy chunks before serving. Can French Bulldogs eat cherries? Frenchies can eat cherries, but as long as you just stick to the flesh and completely remove the cherry pits which contain toxins that can be poisonous to dogs if eaten in large amounts. I personally would be very wary of feeding a cherry to a French Bulldog though, as those pits can be dangerous due to the toxicity and risk of choking. If you have a bowl of cherries in your house, place them well out of reach. Can French Bulldogs eat coconut? That means completely removing the shell. Whilst you might think coconut shell is a good option to chew on for dental health, it can break into small pieces causing internal blockages. Coconut contains no elements that are toxic for dogs but does contain small amounts of medium chain triglycerides. These can lead to gastrointestinal problems in some dogs, so make sure you check with your vet before proceeding. And what about coconut oil and milk? Can French Bulldogs eat cranberries? Frenchies can eat cranberries, whether dried or in their normal form. It should only be fed to them as a treat. One thing to look out for is dried fruit mixes. Cranberries will often be mixed in with raisins which are extremely toxic to dogs, so be very careful when letting them have any dried fruit food. Can French Bulldogs eat dates? Dates are very high in sugar content. Too many dates can also cause stomach upsets due to the high fiber content. Can French Bulldogs eat figs? Frenchies can eat figs, but in very small doses. I would not recommend anything more than a couple of figs a week, and test slowly for any sign of a stomach upset. In very rare cases, figs can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, plus the chance of rashes, sores, or tongue and mouth inflammation. Can French Bulldogs eat guava fruit? Apple guava, the most common variety of guava, comes from the myrtle family. These fruits have no levels toxicity in them, but as with any fruit, if fed in excess could lead to problems. Can French Bulldogs eat gooseberries? Frenchies should not eat gooseberries. Can French Bulldogs eat grapes? Frenchies should never eat grapes as they contain toxins which could lead to permanent kidney damage, and in worst cases prove fatal. Of all the fruits a French Bulldog can eat in this list, this is the one that you should never, ever, feed them. Handy Hint: To find out more about why grapes are so dangerous for dogs, read our guide to French Bulldogs and grapes. Can French Bulldogs eat honeydew melon? Frenchies can eat honeydew melon in moderation. You should not feed lots to them due to the high sugar content, particularly to obese or diabetic dogs. If you do feed your French Bulldog honeydew melon completely remove the rind and any seeds first. It also has a lot of fiber in it. Can French Bulldogs eat jackfruit? Can French Bulldogs eat kiwi fruit? It can cause stomach upsets and you will need to completely remove the skin and seeds due to the choking hazard and toxic nature. If you are determined to feed your Frenchie kiwi, only feed them the flesh with no seeds in. Can French Bulldogs eat kumquat fruit? Frenchies should not eat kumquats. Can French Bulldogs eat lemons or limes? Frenchies should not be fed lime or lemon. These are citrus fruits that have an extremely sour taste that dogs will absolutely hate. There are also psoralen compounds and aromatic oils in lemons and limes that will upset their stomachs. Limes are a particular no-no for a Frenchie. Limes are toxic to canines and even just contact with the leaves, peel, or lime fruit itself can cause your dog to be ill. Can French Bulldogs eat lychees? Frenchies can eat lychees, but as long as they are ripe. Make sure the lychees are green and ripe. Would I recommend feeding lychees to a French Bulldog. No, it seems like a lot of hassle, particularly as you need to remove the seeds and peel before feeding. Can French Bulldogs eat mangoes? Frenchies can eat mango as long as it has been pitted, sliced, and skinned, mangos can be fed to your Frenchie in small portions. Skinning the mango will make it easier for your Frenchie to digest and reduces the risk of upsetting their stomach. That said, mangoes are high in fibre, magnesium, potassium, as well as vitamins A, C, E, and B6, making it another healthy snack for your Frenchie. Can French Bulldogs eat melon? Frenchies can eat melons but is packed with sugar so should be avoided with obese dogs or those that have been diagnosed with diabetes. When feeding melon to your French Bulldog, make sure to remove the skin, rinds, seeds before serving. Handy Hint: If you want some creative and tasty ideas on how to feed melon to your Frenchie, read this comprehensive guide. Can French Bulldogs eat nectarines? Frenchies can eat nectarines. Just like oranges, tangerines, and satsumas, this fruit does have a very high sugar content though, so should be viewed as an occasional treat. Also make sure to remove the nectarine pits as not only will they cause choking and can cause an internal blockage, but also contain trace amounts of cyanide. Can French Bulldogs eat olives? Frenchies can eat olives but in moderation, and absolutely never with the olive pits or stones left in. One or two olives on an irregular basis will cause no harm as there are no toxic elements to black or green olives. If you have any olives that have the pits still in them, place them well out of reach of your French Bulldog. The pits or stones in green and black olives can cause choking or intestinal blockages in dogs. Can French Bulldogs eat oranges? Frenchies can eat oranges, just remove the peel, pith and seeds first as they can irritate the digestive system. Oranges have lots of Vitamin C, which is great for dogs and can help to flush any toxins from their body. However, oranges are very high in natural sugars, so excessive eating could lead to obesity. Frenchies are susceptible to obesity so oranges should be viewed as an occasional treat. Can French Bulldogs eat papayas? Frenchies can eat papaya and they can be a very health dog treat. As with other fruits on this list, please make sure you remove the papaya seeds as they will contain cyanide trace amounts or could result in intestinal blockage. You should also remove the skin before serving. As a fruit, papayas are sweet, yummy and full of nutrition, containing vitamin C, papain and antioxidants making the fleshy part great for the digestive tract. Can French Bulldogs eat passion fruit? Frenchies should not eat passion fruit. Like other fruits on this list, passion fruit seeds contain trace elements of cyanide which can be fatal for dogs when eaten in large quantities. Can French Bulldogs eat peaches? Frenchies can eat peaches but remove the stones. Dogs usually love the taste of peaches. They have antioxidants and help with omega 3 and six fats. As long as the peach has been pitted and sliced up, this is another fantastic option for your Frenchie. The peaches fruit contains vitamins A and C, as well as being an excellent source of fibre, peaches promote healthy eyes, skin, and immune system. Vitamins are also very good for the digestive tract. Also make sure that you wash and remove the seeds prior to feeding it to your beloved Frenchie. Can French Bulldogs eat pears? Frenchies can eat pears. This fruit is rich in vitamins C and A, which help keep dogs healthy. They also have healthy minerals, copper and fiber, which is good for digestion. Pears are good for healthy blood cells. Once again, wash the fruit and remove all seeds as there will be cyanide traces in the pips if eaten in large volume. Can French Bulldogs eat pineapple? Frenchies can eat pineapple fruit, but please remove the hard husk, skin, and any seeds first. Pineapples have lots of vitamins and minerals. They are also moisture rich, which makes them so very refreshing. However, pineapples are very high in natural sugars, so whilst your Frenchie will be begging you for more, only feed it to them in moderation. It should be viewed as a treat, and nothing more. Can French Bulldogs eat plums? Frenchies can eat plums as long as you get rid of the pits and only feed them the flesh part of the fruit. The seeds and stones will also have levels of cyanide in them, so if your Frenchie gets his head down into a bowl of plums without you knowing, there will be consequences. Excessive or even moderate plum eating could cause loose bowels, digestive blockages, and the possibility of toxic poisoning if the pits are ingested. Can French Bulldogs eat pomegranate? This is because the seeds can lead to stomach ache, vomiting and diarrhoea as you dog will find it hard to break down the tannins, anthocyanins and ellagic acids found in pomegranate. However, you will occasionally see some dog treats which contain pomegranate. These will be safe for your French Bulldog to eat, because the manufacturers will have removed the tannins. That means your Frenchie can get the health benefits without the potential risks of vomiting the seeds up. Can French Bulldogs eat raisins? French Bulldogs should not eat raisins. Just like grapes, raisins are very toxic to dogs, and just a handful could lead to kidney failure. Raisins are also bad for Frenchies, just like grapes should be avoided at all times. If your Frenchie does accidently eat any raisins, please consult with your vet. Can French Bulldogs eat raspberries? Frenchies can eat raspberries, as like most berries they are perfectly safe for a dog to eat. Raspberries come packed full of vitamin B, copper, folic acid, and magnesium. If your Frenchie is starting to get on the heavy side, raspberries also contains fiber which can help reduce weight. You might also be wondering if you can feed your French Bulldog raspberry jam, jelly, or yoghurt. Can French Bulldogs eat strawberries? Frenchies can eat strawberries. This fruit is sweet, high in fibre, and low in calories; strawberries are another tasty fruit treat for your French Bulldog. You can read more about this in my guide to Frenchies and strawberries. They are high in fibre and vitamin C, and some experts claim that fresh strawberries given in moderation, as with all treats can help slow down the aging process and strengthen the immune system. They are also good for their bones and digestive tract. Can French Bulldogs eat tangerines? Frenchies can eat tangerines, but just like the oranges and clementine fruit I spoke about earlier, they are very high in natural sugar levels. This can lead to a gastro-intestinal problem if your dog eats them in large quantities as well as weight gain and possibly diabetes. Can French Bulldogs eat tomato? Frenchies should not eat tomatoes. Tomato plants, stems, and leaves the green parts basically contain a substance called solanine and can be dangerous to dogs if they eat it in large quantities. As tomatoes ripen, the solanine metabolizes, meaning the toxicity it removed. So, in small amounts it can be fine if your Frenchie has accidentally eaten tomato, but I personally would not take the risk. I researched into the reasons, and you can read more about the risks of tomato here. Botanically, a fruit is a ripened flower ovary and contains seeds. Can French Bulldogs eat watermelon? Frenchies can eat watermelon. Watermelon is an especially good option for French Bulldogs in the summer, as they do suffer more with the heat than some other breeds. As watermelons are mostly water, the sweetness of this fruit can prove an excellent incentive to keep your Frenchie hydrated. Additionally, watermelons are packed with vitamins A, C, B6, and potassium; encouraging healthy muscle growth and nerve function. Watermelons also have antioxidants, which help get rid of toxins in intestines. It contains more information plus ideas on how to serve it best. If you do decide to feed the watermelon fruit to your Frenchie, make sure you remove the seeds, pips, and skin. The pips can get lodged in their stomachs leading to health problems and potential danger. Can French Bulldogs eat zucchini or courgettes? Frenchies can eat zucchini or courgettes for my readers in England and they are a great alternative to high calorie fruits which are listed in this guide to what fruits French Bulldogs can eat. Whilst similar foods such as onions and garlic should never be given to a dog, zucchini is perfectly safe for them to eat and is one of the best dietary additions you could give them. Why certain fruits can be healthy for your French Bulldog Humans get vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from eating fruit. Normally, dry dog food is lacking in antioxidants. Antioxidants are effective at warding off cancer, heart problems, and other illnesses. French Bulldogs can gain many other benefits from eating fruits as well. Things to remember Prior to feeding any kind of food, including fruit, ask your vet and make sure your Frenchie is not allergic to any fruits so you will not have problems. Any kind of fruit must be washed and make sure you have all seeds removed since they are both poisonous. Do not feed dogs too many fruits. They must be washed and cut up into small pieces as well. Do not use fruit to replace regular meals either. Just give them to your Frenchie as an occasional treat. Fruits work great as treats that can replace dog cookies for training. Fruit can be frozen and put into a dog toy to keep your dog busy. Is your dog a poor eater? Try adding fruit to their foods to get them to eat healthier. Fruit can be given to pups to get them accustomed to eating fruit for the rest of their lives. Also, never give dogs raisins or grapes, as they are very poisonous to dogs. Prior to feeding a Frenchie fruit, it is vital to think about keeping them from ingesting fruit and other foods that will lead to health issues. Should you feed your French Bulldog fruit? Like humans, dogs are what they eat. Here are some reasons to start feeding your French Bulldog some fruit: 1. The quality of processed and commercial foods is not always clear According to the FDA, dog food may legally include meat from dying, dead, and disabled animals. Mill floor sweepings, roadkill, and corn contaminated with high levels of pesticide are also allowed in small quantities. The cheaper the dog food, the cheaper the ingredients. Fruit is typically free from pesticides and can be way healthier than typical dog food, but make sure you do not feed your French Bulldog too much fruit. The same food everyday will limit nutrition Imagine eating rancid fat, corn, and chicken drumsticks every day. Nutritionists advise people to eat a wide variety of foods for enhanced nutrition and an improved immune system. French Bulldogs need variety too, so try to give them some fruit. Complete and balanced it not the same as the best Complete and balanced dog food means that a food has minimal nutritional requirements for the average dog. Do not buy into marketing gimmicks and know that enzyme and nutrient deficiencies are inevitable over time. Not even some of the best commercial dog foods include some of the vitamins that are found in fruits. Download the list of fruits safe or dangerous to eat I hope the list above is useful for you. But what about fruits? Today, we consider dogs to be omnivorous, and although it depends on individual taste, some Frenchies like to eat fruits occasionally. So which fruits are good to eat and which to avoid? We collected the top 5 edible, and top 5 toxic fruits for French bulldogs! Top 5 edible fruits for Frenchies Apple, the perfect healthy snack One apple a day keeps the doctor away! How many times have you heard this in your childhood? An old but gold proverb it is. Apple slices are ideal snacks not only for your child but your Frenchie as well. All you have to do is remove the core and the seeds, as the amount of cyanide in the seeds can be toxic for a small size dog. Apples are rich in fiber and low in fat and protein and prove to be a healthy treat to dieting dogs. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email Banana, the occasional snack Bananas are also high in fiber but are also full of sugar, which makes this fruit high in calories. Due to this, only give a moderate amount of banana to your Frenchie. Banana is more of an occasional treat, not an everyday snack. Consuming large amounts of bananas can lead to constipation, just like for humans, but if your poor baby has diarrhea, it can help him feel better. Only the fruit is edible, so always remove the peel before feeding. Orange, another occasional snack You can give some oranges to your Frenchie once you remove the peel, the pitch, and the seeds. Oranges are high in vitamin C, which is just as healthy for dogs as for humans. Vitamin C helps the detoxification process of the body by flushing the toxins from the body. Oranges are high in natural sugar, so be careful with the amount, especially if your dog is obese or has high blood sugar. Pear, to promote healthy blood cells Similar to apples, dogs can consume pears freely once you remove the seeds and core. Pears are high in many beneficial vitamins, like vitamin A, C, and K, and contain lots of healthy minerals, copper, and fiber. This combination of vitamins in pears promotes healthy blood cells and reduces the risk of stroke. Strawberries, to slow down aging Strawberries are high in fiber, low in calories, and are full of antioxidants. You can give fresh strawberries to your dog without strict limits, but avoid canned strawberries as it contains lots of added sugar! Top 5 toxic fruits for Frenchies Avocados Avocado skin contains persin, and this toxin causes vomiting and diarrhea. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies Grapes Grapes are probably the most toxic fruit of all for dogs. It contains toxins that cause kidney damage which can even be fatal. So it might seem like a cute and funny idea to play fetch with a grape, but that could be a very dangerous game. Raisins Raisins are old grapes, says the joke. Passion Fruit Although passion fruit is yummy, its small seeds are harmful to dogs when eaten in large amounts. Tomatoes Many of us use tomatoes in the kitchen in many forms. But you should know that it contains a toxin called solanine which is dangerous for dogs when consumed in large amounts. The green parts of the plant contain even more solanine, therefore if you have a vegetable garden with tomatoes, make sure to keep your dog away. Are you maybe looking for your second fur baby? Two Frenchies are always better than one , so feel free to check out our available puppies! 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. If you have any questions or comments, let us know below the article! Fruits That Your French Bulldog Can Eat Updated: Jun 8, Apple: Apples present the perfect choice for your furry friend because they are rich in vitamin C andSince they are low in sugar, they are great for Frenchies that suffer from diabetes. Sliced pieces of apple can serve as tasty and very healthy snacks for your doggie. Watermelon: Watermelon is safe for dogs to eat but the seeds must be removed first. Watermelon is a health-proteins powerhouse and packed with nutrients—vitamins A, B6,and C, and potassium Blueberries: This super delicious fruit present one of the best sources of antioxidants. Cantaloupe: If you allow your Frenchie to eat cantaloupe, you can be sure it will leave lots of health benefits on his body. Pear: Slightly softer and sweeter than apples, pears are rich in vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and folic acid. Folic acid is especially great for pregnant Frenchie ladies since it improves the amount of iron in their blood. Strawberries: Frenchies simply enjoy eating strawberries. They are rich in fiber, magnesium, potassium and folic acid, as well as multiple vitamins and essential omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure you remove the skin because of pesticides and the seed as well. Visit: Vegetables French Bulldogs Can Eat Blackberries: They are high in antioxidants which help to fight the free radicals in their body and come with lots of vitamins andfibertoo. Blackberries are a fruit low in sugar and calories, making them healthy treats and ideal for weight management. Mangos: They are also good for them. Mangos contain essential vitamins like A, B6, C, and E, which makes it a nutritious treat for your puppy. However, it's very important to remove the skin before you feed your doggie with it. It can be difficult to digest. Pineapple: Pineapple is a fruit rich in vitamins and minerals, also contains much water which will refresh your French bulldog. It contains bromelain, which it is an enzyme that helps digest proteins, so it will be beneficial for their digestion. Pet Tags.