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I want to subscribe to your mailing list. Submit Thanks for submitting! Doodle What? Hi everyone, thanks so much for coming to check out our website. There really aren't enough lovely things I can say about these amazing dogs. The perfect family companion for young and old and everyone in between. They are loving and funny, loyal and energetic. Most people are aware of the origins of Labradoodles, they were created with a purpose, and that purpose was to develop a breed that had the service dog capabilities of the Labrador combined with the hypoallergenic qualities of the Poodle. And so the Labradoodle was born. They are continuing to prove themselves as amazing assistance, therapy and service dogs but have also become a beloved companion animal for many different types of owners. Growing up on a dairy farm I have always had a passion for animals big and small. Now as an adult with a family I love to share that passion with my two boys and husband. With my breeding program I aim to produce amazing, quality puppies with good health and wonderful temperaments. Please contact me for any questions you might have. If you are looking to get a Labradoodle, always buy from a reputable breeder. There are many great reasons to buy from a responsible breeder. Second, responsible breeders have their puppies raised in an environment where they can properly play with other dogs and be socialized with people early on so that they will be more comfortable when starting out as a new addition to your home. We have listed below some reasons for buying a puppy from a responsible breeder. Responsible breeders have their dogs health tested and ensure that they are good representatives of their breed. A responsible and ethical breeder will never sell puppies without first meeting with potential buyers. They also do not sell puppies until the dog is at least eight weeks old, which ensures that it will be well socialized with humans and other animals. Also, if any of their dogs have a genetic disease, they will tell you about it. Responsible breeders will raise puppies with socialization, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. Below we provided some simple steps to help you identify whether a dog breeder is worth buying one from or not. This will get a better idea of how they treat their dogs and you can also see the environment where puppies grow. If the conditions are terrible, this is a bad sign. Ask them about their experience working with the breeder and ask if they would recommend them. Step 4: Ask the breeder for references. Step 5: Feel free to ask any questions you have. Make sure you ask all the questions you have. Do not hesitate to ask questions, This will help ensure that you are getting a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a responsible breeder. Following these steps will increase your chances of finding a reputable Labradoodle breeder. How to choose A Labradoodle Breeder in Australia: There are many important things to consider when choosing a Labradoodle breeder. Here are some tips to help you to find the right Labradoodle breeder in Australia. When looking for a breeder, it is important to find someone who is reputable and responsible. The breeder should be willing to answer any questions you have about the breed or the puppies. They should also be willing to provide you with references from other people who have purchased dogs from them. The breeder should also be able to provide you with proof that the puppies have been health tested and are free of genetic defects. The dogs should also be well socialized and raised in a healthy environment. The puppies should be well-cared for and healthy. When you visit, be sure to ask to see the parents of the puppies. The parents should be healthy and free of genetic diseases. They should also be well-socialized. If you are not able to visit the breeder in person, be sure to ask for pictures of the puppies and their parents. If you know any great Labradoodle breeder who lives in Australia, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in Australia? It really helps others who are looking for a Labradoodle puppies in Australia. If your friend and relative looking for a Labradoodle Puppies in Australia, you can share this post with them. If you are looking for the best Labradoodle Breeders in Australia, you can consider one of these breeders. Check Out Other Labradoodle breeders:. Our Breeding Practices Behaviour and socialisation I absolutely pride myself on your puppy having the very best start in life! My daughter is a groomer, so all of their needs are well taken care of. Additionally, they have mouth… Read more Health The health and wellbeing of my mothers and their pups is paramount. Every one of my breeding decisions are made in full consultation with registered veterinarians. All of my girls have full DNA… Read more Home environment All of my girls are treasured family members and always sleep inside, as do all pups. And a Fit-to-Fly Certificate, if required. It can result in puppies or dogs who collapse after only five to thirty minutes of exercise. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Canine Elliptocytosis Genetic Test Canine Elliptocytosis is a rare genetic disease causing the red blood cells to be abnormally elliptical in shape, rather than round. It generally does not cause a clinical problem to affected dogs, but puppies may be mildly anaemic and smaller than others. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. A DNA test is available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Cystinuria Genetic Test This condition mainly affects Newfoundlands although other breeds can be affected. It is a genetic condition which results in the production of kidney and bladder stones. There is a DNA test available to confirm that breeding dogs are not carrying this condition. Degenerative Myelopathy DM Genetic Test This is a disease affecting the spinal cord of older dogs, initially causing wobbliness and eventually hindlimb paralysis. It can affect a wide range of breeds. There is now a DNA test that can indicated if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It results in the dog collapsing after periods of intense exercise, even if they are normally able to cope with lower levels of exercise. There is a DNA test available which can indicate if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. Elbow Dysplasia Physical Test These breeders have had x-rays taken on their breeding dogs to assess the quality of their elbow joints. Eye Certificate Physical Test An eye certificate means the breeder has had their breeding dogs examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist, to confirm they are not affected by any eye conditions which may be passed down genetically to their puppies. If relevant for the breed, it also includes running DNA tests to confirm the dog is not a genetic carrier of hereditary eye diseases, such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA. It causes very dry and crusty skin around the nose that predisposes to infections. There is a DNA test available to determine whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. HUU Genetic Test Hyperuricosuria HUU is a genetic disease that causes a build-up of uric acid in the urine, predisposing to painful bladder and kidney stones. It can occur in a range of breeds. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It results in the body rapidly overheating and is sometimes fatal. There is now a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. MPS Genetic Test Mucopolysaccharidosis is a genetic lysosomal storage disease that can cause various problems including stunted growth and bone deformities. There are a few different variants of this disease that have been identified in different breeds. For many breeds there are DNA tests available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying the condition. Affected puppies are small and lack coordination. Within weeks, the puppies may have difficulty holding their head up or standing and may collapse after exertion. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog might be carrying this condition. Narcolepsy Genetic Test Narcolepsy is a genetic disease which causes affected animals to fall asleep suddenly following periods of excitement, such a feeding or play. These dogs might collapse and appear drowsy or might completely fall asleep. They usually grow out of the condition after about one year of age. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Affected dogs can experience lethargy, exercise intolerance and severe anaemia. There is a DNA available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. There are a variety of sub-types of PRA, which can occur in various breeds. There are various DNA tests available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Patellar Luxation Physical Test Dogs affected by patellar luxation have loose kneecaps that may pop in and out of the knee joint, which can be painful and even require surgery. Having a vet examine breeding dogs for patellar luxation can confirm the dog is not affected, and that their puppies are less likely to develop the condition. Patellar luxation is more common in smaller breeds. Skeletal Dysplasia Genetic Test Skeletal Dysplasia is an inherited form of dwarfism which causes the leg bones to grow much shorter than is proportional for the body. Affected legs will be short and slightly bowed outwards. Often the forelimbs are more affected than the hindlimbs, which can make the condition more difficult to spot in subtle cases. It is incredibly rewarding breeding healthy new life in the form of Oodle puppies. More recently, I lived in Bali for 5 years where I was constantly picking up stray dogs and loving them back to health. You can rest assured that each and every pup leaves me having had an incredible… Read more. I only place puppies in homes where I expect they will be loved for a lifetime and all my Breeding Dogs live in family homes for their entire life. Search results for "labradoodle" in Perth, Western Australia. We started breeding, competing and showing purebreds until 8 years ago when we decided to breed standard sized Groodles. A full-grown mini Australian Labradoodle ranges between 14 and 16 inches in height withers and weighs less than 30 pounds. Groodles are wonderful dogs in so many ways theyre smart, affectionate, low-to-non shedding and energetic. Perth, Western Australia. They are bigger than the average terrier check out the photos of our family dogs together. Mini Labradoodles often live up to 15 years. Our puppies are multigeneration Australian Labradoodles born and raised in our home. Box 35, Perth, Tasmania, ,Australia. I am Sharlene Bysouth and my family have been breeding pups for a little over 28 years. Puppy health record includes important information about your puppy After-sales support that is world-class for the lifetime of your puppy. Labradoodles are allergy friendly Household. Voice does not work very well in our area. These adorable Mini Labradoodle puppies are delightfully affectionate and intelligent and have wonderful temperaments making them suitable companions for all types of families. .Our puppies have been raised in a loving environment and have shown their sweet nature when playing with our socialisation team. .Through love, nurture, patience and training we are passionate about developing a breeding line of high quality. Miniatures born 13th June .At West Side, we are passionate about creating a breeding line that is suitable for any family. The labradoodle is a cross between a labrador retriever and a poodle. We are an Australian Labradoodle Association registered, boutique breeder of multi-generational Australian Labradoodles. GAGA Labradoodles has a strong focus on health, soundness, structure, calm temperament and genetics when breeding Australian Labradoodles. Can arrange viewings in Wanneroo. A Mini Labradoodle will generally stand between 14 and 16 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 15 to 25 pounds. Skip to content. Puppies are raised both indoors and outdoors, with children, other dogs, chooks, horses and farm life. See Available Puppies. Lyster Labrador's is located 50min south of Perth, Western Australia. Labradoodles bred in this environment are fit and healthy and full of life. A full-grown mini labradoodle generally weighs no more than 20 pounds. Bellissimo Labradoodles health test. Breeding of animals is something I have been inspired to do all my life. Assistance and therapy Dog heritage. Cavapoo Mini Goldendoodle Labradoodle Christmas Ornament - custom pet gift for dog lover - pet remembrance gift - puppy's first Christmas. The Oxford Dictionary officially recognized the word labradoodle in , which means you can use it in Scrabble. Rey lives with her guardian family in Vic, she is a much loved girl who shares her family with another Labradoodle. For this reason, they are one of the most popular dog breeds in Australia. We are a small home breeder of Mini Groodles and Cavoodles, breeding assistance, therapy and family dogs, who are healthy, intelligent, loyal and loving. When it comes to its weight, the smallest version of a mini Labradoodle has a weight ranging from 7 kilograms to 11 kilograms or 16 pounds to 25 pounds. Caralee Australian Labradoodles breed miniature and medium sized multi-generational labradoodles across the full colour range with easy care wool or fleece coats. Penguin, Central Coast. Labrador puppies. Mini Labradoodles are also sought-after for their sweet demeanor. We aim to offer you a companion and a valued family member when you take home a Gaga puppy. O Box 93 Manjimup WA .Labradoodle Pups - Non Shedding - available Now. This stunning lady has now moved to New Zealand. Labradoodle Puppies For Sale. Selling 3 month old mini labradoodle great little guys with lots of energy and not one angry bone in his body. Genetic analysis indicates our dogs are the finest available. We think it's unbeatable for quality, price, and convenience. We can deliver your pups right to your door. Very basic toilet training has begun on grass areas. The Mini Labradoodle is popular among celebrities, and many have them as pets, including Jennifer Aniston. Get up to 15 to 20 pounds full grown about 12 Shadow is a loyal, affectionate, pretty obedient dog and a popular designer breed. Both these mixed breed dogs are pretty similar when it comes to their size and theyre classified as a medium-sized dog breed. Given the Labradoodle's highly intelligent Household. Coat: Hair, wool, or fleece depending on crossbreed Check out the Mini Labradoodle puppies for sale we currently have in our stores. Report Ad. This designer breed is a dog of many talents. We have been breeding healthy, happy dogs, sound of mind and body - since .So, if you are looking for Labrador puppies for sale in Perth or Western Australia, then look no further. We are a small kennel on a lovely property, where our dogs are part of our family. The Australian Labradoodle is the true family companion breed. Mum and puppies fed Blackhawk puppy biscuits plus nutritional home cooked additions. Medium to standard Labradoodle pups available to loving homes now. The flamboyant Florence has had some beautiful babies with the very handsome spoodle Speed!! This designer dog breed usually lives years. The standard-sized versions were bred to be guide dogs, and this trait is dominant in Mini Labradoodles as well. Labradoodle is never allowed on the furniture. Layla is a bit of a super model, and has the most amazing green eyes and gorgeous fleece coat. Phone: .The Mini Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who requires a firm leader when it comes to training but they are eager-to-please and learn quickly without much need for repetition. Aside from these facts, there are many more things to know about a mini Labradoodle before purchasing one. He will make a wonderful companion for the right home that understands him. Apricot Minature Labradoodles available to take home now. HOME; Perth Line 89 Stunning, with dark expressive eyes, endearing hanging ears, and a beautiful long tail, the Mini Labradoodle displays a most wonderful blend of physical traits from both parent breeds. If you wish to join the waiting list for a labradoodle puppy. Home; Breed Info. The Mini Labradoodle is the smaller version of the equally amazing Standard Labradoodle. Mini Labradoodles are highly intelligent, affectionate, and as loving as can be. As members of the Australian Labradoodle Association Bellissimo Labradoodles are bound to their code of ethics and standards. Typically they are small in size, ranging between pounds, but can sometimes be a little larger like their parent the Labrador. Country of Origin: Australia. We are a small, family breeder of gorgeous Australian Labradoodles. They are so cuddly and gentle with our 10 month old son. Vineyard Petauma Aka Milo.
Both are also made from TPE material which is a safe, eco-friendly alternative to a rubber ball. Plus, they come in the perfect size for a small dog. Interactive toys like this are also great if your little Frenchie suffers from separation anxiety. The treat dispenser on each is designed to challenge your Frenchie with his own little dog puzzle toy. This interactive dog puzzle toy is great for bored pups who need a rewarding brain teaser or to encourage slower eating habits in fast eaters. Cleaning is simple and fast. The treat spot located in the center of these dog chew toys is great for stuffing with treats to max out the fun of interactive or solo play. These toys are durable and long-lasting. The Squawkers durable rubber dog toys offer different, funny chicken characters with the irresistible squeakers your Frenchie loves. These are particularly fun for a Frenchie puppy. The high-quality materials are all safe and natural, and the paint used to decorate them is lead-free so you can have a safe, fun experience. The Invincible Snakes are another great toy for your Frenchie. Made from natural latex rubber and lead-free paint these hilarious dog toys are perfect for playing fetch and other games with your dog! The irresistible squawking squeaker will keep them engaged and mentally stimulated as they chomp and play. These two options fit the bill perfectly. It will undoubtedly become one of his favorite toys. The blend of natural wood fiber and safe synthetic materials is a safe alternative to real wood. Real wood can splinter which can lead to oral and intestinal damage, particularly in aggressive chewers. These multi-sensory durable dog toys provide various textures and sounds including 3 internal squeakers. Its K9 Tuff Guard technology includes reinforced non-rip seams, durable fused backing, and double-stitched seams that all add up to longevity and durability in this tug toy. This is a fetch toy, tug of war toy, and chew toy all in one. It has handles for you to grab easily, and you can play toss and catch with it too. It can also work well as a teething toy for your Frenchie puppy. Made with naturally shed antler material, Deerhorn has a natural taste and smell your dog will love. Made in the U. With a variety of scents like the smell of real wood or a Mesquite BBQ, Dogwood combines real wood with synthetic strength, making it a tough and durable chew toy. Constructed with soft plush, corduroy, and twisted rope material for a cozy yet tough dog toy that can last through multiple play sessions. Stuffed with crinkle paper and three squeakers that will keep your pup engaged for hours! That anatomy puts them at a higher risk for certain health problems that can affect their ability to play. Here are some of the common problems this particular dog breed has: Upper Respiratory Infections — URT Because of that squashed face, French bulldogs are at higher risk for upper respiratory infections. In fact, most Frenchies will have at least one upper respiratory infection in their lifetime, particularly if they spend time around other dogs. The symptoms of this are similar to a cold and include coughing, nasal congestion, and lethargy. If you think your Frenchie has a URT, you want to see your vet right away. That short snout and squashed face can cause trouble breathing, problems sleeping, and heat intolerance. For Frenchies, this problem typically occurs when they are exercising, particularly in warmer temperatures. You might consider limiting his playtime to prevent this from happening. Mobility Problems for French Bulldogs There are a number of health problems French bulldogs can develop. These include conditions like hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and spinal disc problems. Intervertebral disc disease IVDD is one example that can actually result in paralysis. These conditions are something to be aware of as you play with your Frenchie best friend. French Bulldog Toys: Final Thoughts French bulldogs are one of the cutest and smartest small dogs around. They love to play and have plenty of energy so get ready to move. Interactive toys that challenge their mind, chew toys, tug toys, kong toys, and squeaky toys are all great choices for your Frenchie. Also, watch out for upper respiratory infections that can slow them down. March 25, 0 If you are a new owner of a French Bulldog, it is normal and good to ask: What kind of toys do French bulldogs like? Or, what are French bulldogs' favorite toys? With French bulldogs taking over America, many owners have shared what toys make their Frenchies happy, including squeaky toys, stuffed toys, chew toys, Kong toys, tug toys and interactive toys that challenge their minds. French bulldogs are very playful and love all kinds of toys. But according to many Frenchie owners, their dogs like some toys more than others. That said, here are the top Frenchie-approved toys on the market today! Best Interactive Toys for French Bulldogs 1. By encouraging healthy play, which is important for French Bulldogs' physical and mental development, this treat-dispensing puzzle toy helps solve behavioral issues such as digging and barking, boredom, separation anxiety, chewing and teething. The KONG Classic, which is the most recommended by vets and trainers worldwide, is even more fun when filled with kibble. Key Features and Specification:. So, why do Frenchies need toys in the first place? So, what are some of the biggest reasons that toys are important for French Bulldogs? Toys Provide Mental Stimulation Frenchies are smart and curious, and they need to exercise their brains regularly. Entertaining dog toys, especially puzzles, are a great way to prevent boredom, depression, and destructive habits, as well as encourage them to learn problem-solving skills. Toys allow them to exercise their natural chewing instincts, saving them from pent-up energy and anxiety. Mentally and physically engaging toys are the best way to prevent this, allowing them to relieve any pent-up stress and energy. Aside from your standard dog toys, it also helps to have a few toys that allow you and your pup to play together. These play sessions will help you and your dog to grow closer while also getting in some physical activity. You should try to get in at least minutes of exercise or active play every day, but go for a bit more if you have the time. This time can include anything from walks to playing tug-of-war as long as your pup is getting up and getting moving. We think your pup will love each of these toys, so feel free to try them out! BarkBox delivers new toys and treats every month, so with a customized bundle, your pup will never be bored again! All you have to do is hide the extra toys in their cubbies and let your Frenchie start searching! Squeakers in each toy will keep your pup engaged, encouraging them to solve the puzzle. They also come in a variety of shapes and flavors. Some of the best French Bulldog toys can be made right in your home with materials you likely already have on hand. This is one of the easiest toys you can make for your dog with an old T-Shirt and scissors. Simply cut two long, thin strips of the shirt and layer them on top of each other. Plastic Bottle Toy Being environmentally-friendly is always a plus and you can do just this by reusing a plastic bottle and old fabric. Wrap and tie old fabric around an empty plastic bottle and watch your dog be thrilled to tug and toss their new toy. The sound of the plastic bottle can provide extra interest and stimulation. Pupsicles Your dog will be entertained and full of joy with a tasty frozen treat. Mix 1 part pureed apples with 1 part non-fat, sugar-free Greek yogurt. Tie the end of a long sock, soak it in water, then freeze. Your Frenchie will enjoy this unique-feeling chew toy. Enjoy Playtime! You and your French Bulldog will never get bored and will definitely live and happy, healthy life with all of these funtastic toys! Check out this full guide for all the tips and tricks to playing with your French Bulldog. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. Pin35 35 Shares Frenchies never grow up. They want to play all of the time. But keeping a Frenchie entertained all day can be hard work. Before I go on though, let me be clear. All the favorite toy suggestions here are based on toys we have found Claude the Frenchie likes to play with — on this page you can see photos of him and his friends actually using some of them. In this list of the best French Bulldog toys on the market you will see favorites to suit puppies that are chewing and teething, plus some stuffed toys. I am going to start off with the ones that Claude has loved the most, that have kept him entertained the longest. What are the best toys for French bulldogs? You will need toys that last, period. Almost all the toys I recommend below pass that destruction test. With some of these, Frenchies will play with by themselves, others with us when we want to get involved. I believe these are the best toys for French Bulldogs, puppies and adults alike. It comes with a handle on it so you can throw it, squeaks, and is tough enough to withstand all the punishment a teething or adult Frenchie can dish out. Our cat even joins in with this game. These laser pen toys see Amazon prices will also need some batteries too. Claude loves chasing the laser across the floor, and even does it with our cat at the same time. Frenchie Chew Toy A Nylabone will become one of the best investments you make and is the perfect French Bulldog teething toy. French bulldog chew toys are essential no matter what age your Frenchie is. They start to teeth around 12 weeks of age, with the teething phase typically lasting up to 24 weeks. During this phase they will want to chew everything; furniture, shoes, you name it. Frenchie chew toys can offer a distraction and suitable alternative to having your prized possessions chewed up and destroyed. You can find a similar one to the photo on Amazon. Kong Chew Toy Dogs the world over love to play with Kong toys. You can put treats in them to set a mental challenge for your hungry Frenchie. The Kong helps to keep your Frenchie busy. It will not only take cunning and flexibility to get the nice tasting secrets out but will also take them a while too. These are one of the most popular dog toys in the world as you can see from the thousands of Amazon reviews. Frenchies love to play tug of war. It lets them get rid of any excess energy and possible aggression — and it keeps the owner fit too! This one is brilliant though and despite the pulling, tugging, and tearing at it, has never degraded, frayed, or ripped apart. They are designed for aggressive chewers. You can find a similar tug of war toy on Amazon. There are loads of different styles to choose from. Stuffed Toy Plush toys can prove to be a comfort to a puppy and give them something else to chew on. French Bulldogs love stuffed toys too. The best ones for Frenchies will come with a squeaky noise when bitten. It comes a pack of 12 so your dog should never get bored again. Rope Ball Toy Claude likes the rope toy, his friend was perfectly happy with a flowerpot! A great toy for keeping your Frenchie entertained outdoors would be a rope ball. You can throw it, dangle it, or kick it. Have a look at the Amazon prices. Squeaky Bone Toy This is Claude and his puppy friend having a chew toy battle. Frenchie love toys that squeak. As you can see from my photo, Claude and his buddies will often playfight to see who can win the bone battle. You can buy this toy in red, yellow, or green depending on your style. As with the other Frenchie toys, this is also available on Amazon. Frenchie puppies need to be constantly entertained and will want to play for every single second they are awake. Below you can see some of the toys best suited to a French Bulldog puppy. This puppy toy also comes with a squeaky button inside of it so expect your puppy to be cuddling into it one minute and trying to destroy it the next. See the Orangutan on Amazon. Chuckit Throwing Balls Frenchie puppies love to chase balls but need something a little bit smaller than the Bomber Ball I recommended earlier. You can buy a pack of 2 on Amazon. Best French Bulldog chew toys Frenchies of all ages like and need to chew, but even more so during the teething phase. You can even get French Bulldog chew toys that go in the freezer first, to help soothe sore gums. You can either fill it with snacks or pop it in the freezer before play time. See the latest prices on Amazon. Dog Toothbrush Stick Dental hygiene is a must so why not combine a favorite toy with functionality? Go take a look at the Amazon prices. Best French Bulldog stuffed toys .Hide-a-Squirrel Toy Claude loves chasing squirrels. I was surprised at how highly rated it was, but it certainly seems to work as you can see from the Amazon reviews. But sometimes the simplest toys are the best for a French Bulldog. Hours of fun could be had with this, and once your dog is tired, he can cuddle up to it. The people who already own this say it stands up to a lot of rough play. These mind-stimulating toys are how you keep a French bulldog entertained and mentally active. It has a small maze inside within which you can place small kibble biscuits. As your dog pushes the ball around, the treat will hopefully find its way through the maze. This sounds like absolute torture to me, but by all accounts, it can keep your dog entertained for hours — and importantly, keep their mind active. Go check it out on Amazon. Interactive Dog Puzzle Toy Another great idea here with this interactive puzzle that can help to teach your Frenchie how to learn sequential steps to get a reward. It has 6 different compartments that pull out to reveal a tasty treat. See what people are saying on the Amazon reviews for this awesome toy. Here are a few household items that Frenchies love to play with too. Claude loved playing with footballs when he was a puppy. He would go mad in our garden pushing it around at high speed with his nose and it kept him entertained for hours at a time. Part of the game was him trying to get the ball into his mouth. Once Claude got to about 10 months his jaw was a lot bigger and he was able to chew the football up — we were getting through a couple of football toys each week. Balloons The simple things in life are sometimes the best as this balloon game shows. Sometimes the simplest things can provide the best entertainment for a Frenchie. He will try to get the balloon, and actually end up heading it back. The top section are all ones that we know for sure are the kind of toys French Bulldogs like to play with. But sometimes, anything will work as a toy. How do you keep a French bulldog entertained? We walk Claude twice a day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, but also play with him and his favorite toys as much as we can in the house. How to keep Frenchies safe when playing? Frenchies will be very boisterous, and puppies will never know when to stop. Because of this, in hot weather particularly, they can overheat easily. I wrote a guide on how to keep Frenchies cool when playing. How do French Bulldogs like to play? French Bulldogs have lots of different ways they like to play aside from with their favorite toys. They like to playfight, the like to play rough, and they love to play fetch. You can see a video below which shows some great examples of Claude playing. For more information on how Frenchie play, read this guide. We release videos every week so please subscribe. How to stop chewing and destructive behavior Toys are one of the best ways you can help to prevent chewing. Without toys, mental stimulation, and exercise you might have a lot of destructive behavior to deal with. If you do want to stop that, read this guide to stopping chewing. How to stop a Frenchie biting when playing Once you have a collection of toys for your Frenchie you should also play with them. They can play by themselves happily but love it most when they have a playmate to share the fun with. However, puppies in particular find it hard not to bite, and this can become problematic if not trained out of them at a young age. To find out how to stop biting, read these notes. Importance of toys for French Bulldogs: French Bulldogs are adorable and playful companions that bring joy to our lives. As responsible pet owners, it is crucial to understand the importance of providing them with suitable toys. They not only entertain our furry friends but also play a vital role in their overall well-being. Preventing boredom and destructive behavior French Bulldogs are intelligent creatures with a mischievous streak. Without adequate stimulation, they can become bored easily, leading to destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture or excessive barking. Toys serve as a great outlet for their energy and help prevent these undesirable habits. Interactive options, such as puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing balls, challenge their problem-solving skills while keeping them engaged. These stimulate their minds and provide a healthy outlet for their natural curiosity. Promoting physical exercise and mental stimulation Just like humans, French Bulldogs need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Engaging them in active playtime sessions with appropriate toys helps burn off excess energy, preventing obesity and related health issues. Tug ropes, plush squeaky toys, or balls encourage physical activity while promoting bonding between you and your Frenchie. Incorporating interactive games like hide-and-seek or fetch will not only keep them physically active but also mentally stimulated. Aiding in teething, dental care, and overall oral health French Bulldog puppies go through the teething phase just like any other breed. During this time, they experience discomfort due to emerging teeth. Providing them with suitable chew toys can alleviate this discomfort by redirecting their urge to chew onto something safe. Chewing on appropriate objects helps promote dental hygiene by reducing plaque buildup and massaging the gums. Look for specially designed dental chews that aid in cleaning teeth while providing entertainment. These typically involve hiding treats or small plush toys within compartments that your furry friend must figure out how to access. The process of finding the hidden treasure requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Hide-and-Seek: These puzzle toys have multiple compartments where you can hide treats or small toys. Your French Bulldog will have a blast sniffing out the hidden goodies and using their paws or nose to open each compartment. Treat Dispenser Balls: These balls have openings where you can place treats inside. As your Frenchie rolls the ball around, it dispenses treats intermittently, encouraging them to keep playing and figuring out how to get more. Slow Feeders: Slow feeder bowls or lick mats require your French Bulldog to work a bit harder for their food by making them eat more slowly. This not only aids digestion but also provides stimulation as they figure out how to access each kibble piece from the various compartments. As they move the pieces around, they are rewarded with tasty morsels, making mealtime more exciting and engaging. Elsa Enjoying Her Puzzle. Lively and playful, the Frenchie is easy to please when it comes to toys. But owners say that some toys are bigger hits than others. Chew Toys Both puppies and adults love to chew on toys. For puppies, getting a good quality chew toy made just for teething is important. Good teething toys will satisfy their need to chew and help soothe their painful gums. Adult French Bulldogs also love chew toys. Finding a durable chew toy can be a challenge, but with a little trial and error, you can find a durable toy that your dog likes. No chew toys last forever, so expect to replace them regularly. French Bulldogs also enjoy pull toys that they can bring to you for some interactive tug of war games. These pull toys should be durable too. Many love to play with them, but they also like to cuddle with them too. There are lots of cute options out there to make you and your Frenchie happy. Fetch toys can be as simple as a ball or frisbee. Your Frenchie will appreciate interacting with you during games of fetch. Puzzle toys that dispense treats are also fun for French Bulldogs. They are interactive and mentally stimulating. We focused on smaller toys here, but you can experiment with different sizes. Durability The biggest challenge when it comes to dog toys is durability, especially for enthusiastic chewers. Some owners complain that new toys get destroyed in a day. If your dog is hard on toys, look for ones that say they are stronger than average. Here is a recap of a couple of our top picks. Most dogs, no matter what the breed, love KONGs. Your dog will be happy and stay busy chewing it and working for the treats you can hide inside. You can hide multiple squeaky plush squirrels in a tree trunk and watch your Frenchie find the little critters and play with them. Featured Image Credit: Piqsels Lisa Hertz Author Lisa is a Southern California-based pet writer who combines her lifelong passion for animals with a background in library and information science. Her love of animals inspired a career change in to full-time pet writing, where she applies her research skills. When not writing about animals, Lisa volunteers with a local pet charity, enjoys native plant and waterwise gardening, going to the beach, and curling up with a good book alongside her two big and fluffy Norwegian Forest Cats.Read more Advertisement. Take the Quiz 1. Chew Toys Got a furry little chew-monster at home? Chew toys are the paw-fect solution for teething Frenchies. They come in various durable materials to withstand even the toughest nibblers. These toys will also help maintain dental health and provide hours of entertainment for your Frenchie. Say goodbye to furniture gnawing and hello to a satisfied pup! They fight over them. Plush toys are the ultimate snuggle buddies for your French Bulldog. Hiding Toys Hiding toys are the sneakiest fun your Frenchie will ever have. We have soooo many of these!! Hours of fun await your pup as they conquer these brain-busters! She was afraid of that at first but as soon as she got the idea she solves to open the puzzles quickly. In a day or two she was an expert. Tug-of-War Toys Tug-of-war toys offer a fantastic way to bond with your Frenchie while helping them release their energy and giving their muscles a good workout. Warning: Be prepared to lose sometimes, because their cuteness is just too persuasive! Treat-Dispensing Toys Treat-dispensing toys are like a surprise party for your Frenchie. They keep those curious noses and clever paws busy, rewarding them with yummy treats for their hard work. The dogs then go crazy trying to get it out of the hole. Kong Toys The legendary toy that stands the test of time! Hours of entertainment guaranteed! He brings it to bed most nights, he just loves playing with it. Squeaky Toys Squeaky toys are a favorite among Frenchies, adding an extra dose of excitement to playtime. Rubber Toys Rubber toys are the ultimate all-rounders. This rubber chicken dog toy will surely be a hit with your Frenchie! Crinkle Toys Pups just wanna have fun…and make noise! Crinkle toys provide sensory stimulation for your curious Frenchie, keeping them entertained with exciting textures and sounds. Balls The timeless joy of chasing and catching! Prepare for boundless energy and endless giggles! She plays soccer and carries it. Flirt Poles Flirt poles let you engage your pup in a playful chase, providing exercise and entertainment for both of you. Guaranteed full-body workout for your Frenchie and great entertainment for you! She loves chasing this thing. Laser Pointer Unleash the feline frenzy in your pup! Laser pointers are the magical wands of playtime. The elusive red dot is an endless source of fascination, giving your Frenchie a chance to engage their hunting skills. Doggie Pool A paddling pool is one of the best ways to keep your Frenchie cool in hot temperatures. Not only does it keep them refreshed, but it also provides a stimulating environment and hours of playtime for your baby. Perfect for those water-loving Frenchies who enjoy splashing around! Plastic Bottles Who knew recycling could be so much fun? Plastic bottles are the unsung heroes of DIY dog toys. Frenchies absolutely love it: their crinkly texture and exciting sounds are enough to make any pup go bananas! Just be sure to remove the cap and any small parts to keep playtime safe and enjoyable. We also got her a toy off Amazon that you insert a 20oz plastic bottle into that she loves. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article.
The tails of German shepherds are usually straight, as explained in the previous paragraph. The tail should not fly high, but rather hang low and slightly curved, like a sword. Dogs often raise and hold their tails at a greater angle when they are aroused. Having a curled tail does not imply that your GSD is not a purebred. This is a frequent blunder. A curling or elevated tail is not a guarantee that a GSD puppy will retain this trait as an adult. This is a crucial point to keep in mind. Tails may be lifted when pups are joyful and lively, but they may be dropped when they are peaceful, resting or feeling worried or scared. An excessively curled tail that rests high on the back of your German Shepherd puppy, however, is an indication that he was crossbred. To compound matters, many people pay more attention to the neck and back than to the tail. Focus on the conclusion for a few additional minutes. Grooming the tail is a simple matter of using a decent slicker brush. Wiping the tail with a baby wipe will help keep mud, filth, and germs away from your dog. Although it sounds reasonable, there is no scientific proof or extensive investigation to back this notion. It is not suggested to trim or clip the tail of your GSD. Avoiding Tail Chasing and Biting In order to avoid problems like hair loss, sensitive skin, wounds, and infections, you should stop your dog from chasing or biting his tail right away. While redirection training is most likely your best course of action, it will require a lot of patience and consistency from both you and your GSD. If your German Shepherd dog is chasing or chewing its tail, it might be showing signs of agitation, anxiety, boredom, or anal furunculosis. So be sure to see your veterinarian if you observe a swollen anus. Anal furunculosis, a parasite infection of the vaginal region, may also induce tail biting. Veterinary treatment is required since this is a chronic and severe condition. Swelling or redness around the anus may be a symptom of an infection. Maintain Consistent Inspection Protocols On a weekly basis, the tail should be examined and inspected to ensure that it is clear of skin rashes, sores, hair loss, and any other irregularities. Having a casual appearance and feel in the evenings when your Dog is more relaxed might help you avoid possible problems. The movements and the German Shepherd tail positions have the following meanings. Wagging Tail Negative emotions such as nervousness can be indicated by German Shepherds wagging their tails to the left. Wagging their tail more to the right indicates that a German Shepherd is experiencing positive emotions, such as excitement or joy upon seeing you or upon engaging in playful activity with you. When training your dog, be aware of this. By examining the base of the tail, you can tell the difference between a low-hanging and a slightly tucked tail. If the tail is somewhat tucked, it will have a steeper downhill slope than if the tail is low-hanging. If there are some male dogs around, you should be on the watch for signs of hostility or play. If there are other female dogs in the area, your GSD is more likely to display signs of lust and be ready to mate if you see him become excited. Something as simple as a squirrel outside the window could be the cause for the shift. Fear, arousal, aggressiveness, and play are just a few of the many meanings associated with a high-positioned tail. Understanding the behavior of a German Shepherd requires an understanding of its surroundings. The fact that a GSD is still evaluating the position and has not yet committed to a response means that you should be aware of the current scenario. Make sure there are no fleas hiding in its coat by thoroughly inspecting it. Several GSDs had a genetic defect. There is no way to correct this inherited flaw. German Shepherds are known for their strong and powerful appearance, and a straight tail is a great way to achieve this. Due to this, owners of GSDs with gay tails frequently choose surgical treatment as a solution. It is not a long-term solution to have your GSD support a surgical procedure to straighten a curled tail. Even after surgery, puppies of a GSD with a gay tail will have a gay tail as well because it is a genetic trait. Final Thoughts The tails of German Shepherds are usually straight, but they do have a slight curve to them, like a saber sword. Tails that curl over the back of a German Shepherd are a strong indication that the dog is a crossbreed. The tails of German Shepherds are just as important as the rest of their bodies. Owners of German Shepherds may encounter a variety of tail issues, some of which are genetic and some of which are acquired. Curled tails are not a sign that anything is wrong with your GSD, and he or she will be able to lead a full and happy life regardless. When it comes to German Shepherd tails, what kind is yours? If you have any additional questions, please let us know in the comments. Thank you for taking the time to read this! He is very passionate about training and caring for dogs, that is why he started this website. Want a free 5 part dog training video series? The curly tail, also called the gay tail, is a genetic flaw that can affect some German Shepherds. Many German Shepherd owners love to see their dog chase its tail. Dogs love to roll around and chase their tail and make a low growling sound when caught. This behavior may tell you something else about your pet. You will see that your German Shepherd will grab its tail when it is boring. For example, if you do not go for a walk for several days, it will indicate that it needs physical activity. When you see your GSD grab its tail in a small enclosure, if it is in a very small space, it will get anxious, and that will be the activity it will encounter. If you notice that your dog is constantly trying to bite or scratch the anus, you should check for any skin irritation or infection. As part of grooming your dog, you should check that all body parts are fine. Check its tail, toes, head, etc. One of the genetically inherited flaws that GSDs can suffer from is the curly tail. A curved tail means that your German Shepherd has a homosexual tail. It is characterized by a tail that carries above the horizontal level of the back and curves upwards. Gay tails are considered a genetic flaw, and therefore, there is no way to fix them. Some breeders and owners can go to surgery for money or fame, but this will not make quality puppies inherit the curved tail. There is a training method used to train Show German Shepherds to hold their tails in a specific position when standing. If you decide to use this training method, you should know that it will take patience and time. However, it can also be related to specific health problems such as: Limber tail syndrome The limber tail syndrome is a disease known as acute caudal myopathy, broken tail, and cold tail. It is usually due to injury, overwork, or spending a lot of time in cold water. The tail muscles become inflamed from exposure to cold water and begin to ache after 24 hours of exposure. Anal furunculosis This is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin that is under the tail and near the anus. It is caused by genetics and an inefficient immune system. Skin infection Treating German Shepherd tail skin infections is usually difficult. This is a prone area for infections because they do not have extra skin. In addition, itching, chewing, and hair loss are caused by allergies and can become infected if you do not treat them in time. You may also like:. When a German Shepherd is always holding its tail upright and stiff, it means he is the leader of the pack. According to him. It is just cutting the ends of the hair, and not the tail. If you will brush its hair, make sure to brush its tail too. Regularly check its anus and the skin under the tail, it is where Anal Furunculosis begins. If you notice that your German Shepherd is losing hair on its tail, and it keeps on biting it, it could be a sign of infection. Check for cuts or scrapes on the tails, it can cause infections too. It is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin that starts under their tail and around their anus. This problem starts when the immune system of the GSD fails to respond properly. The best way to avoid having a GSD with this hereditary disease is to ensure that your pup comes from GSD parents that are free of Anal Furunculosis genetically. A report by www. When a GSD spends too much time in cold water, it can damage its tail muscles. The symptoms of Limber Tail Syndrome are swollen tail muscles, cramps, and painful tails. This condition heals after days but if it is causing too much pain, you can ask your vet for a pain reliever. You might notice how your GSD is chewing its tail to curb its itchiness. When scraped and left untreated, it might also lead to infection. If your GSD starts to lick its wound, it might make the cut bigger. To treat a skin infection, it is best to see a vet immediately. Antibiotic is often prescribed to treat skin infection. Do you love seeing your GSD pup chasing its tail? They love loving round and round, trying to chase their tail and when they catch it, they produce that low growling sound. It means they won. No matter how fun it is watching your pup chasing its tail, the act itself tells something about your pet. You will see your GSD catching its tail when it finds itself in a small enclosure. When a GSD is placed in a cramped space, it becomes anxious, hence it catches its tail You will see your GSD catching its tail when it is boring. Having a curled tail is not bad for German Shepherds. It is a genetic fault that affected some GSDs. However, some owners prefer a GSD with a straight tail. A straight tail projects a strong and powerful look that German Shepherds are known for. For this reason, owners of GSDs with gay tails often opt for surgical remedies. Having your GSD undergo surgery to straighten up a curled tail is not a permanent solution. Because it is hereditary, puppies of a GSD with a gay tail will also have a gay tail even after surgery. Other Health Concerns for a German Shepherd Aside from having tail problems, German Shepherds are also prone to developing other hereditary conditions according to iheartdogs. It can lead to difficulties defecating, having bloody stool, and itchiness in the surrounding area of the anus. Dog Bites — German Shepherd are playful and very active. They can easily injure one another, and the tail is one body part that gets bitten easily. Dog bites should be cleaned and treated immediately according to petmd. Megaesophagus — when your GSD starts throwing up especially after eating, it can be a sign of megaesophagus. This condition affects the esophagus, causing it to be limp and unable to pass digested food. It can also cause regurgitation. A GSD with a megaesophagus is often given a soft or liquid diet. Treatment is lifelong. Hip Dysplasia — This is the most common hereditary medical concern for the German Shepherd. As a large dog, their socket joints are at risk of being malformed. A GSD with hip dysplasia requires lifelong treatment. Osteoarthritis — Osteoarthritis is common to older GSDs. It happens when they suffer an injury and the injury took a while to heal. One symptom of osteoarthritis is when your dog seems to be slowing down. Tail-wagging related injuries — German Shepherds are known for wagging their tails all the time. Sometimes, too much enthusiasm can lead to injuries such as banging their tails on furniture or the wall. Tail-wagging accidents can lead to fractured tailbone or cuts and bruises. Degenerative Myelopathy — as GSDs grow older, they also tend to develop age-related conditions such as Degenerative Myelopathy. This condition affects the spinal cord tissue leading to weaker limbs that can end with paralysis or death. Fleas — fleas itself is not a medical concern but the effect of having fleas is. Fleas can cause skin infections. A German Shepherd with fleas often suffers skin irritation that leads to irritation, inflammation, and skin infection. At the first sign of tail problems such as cuts or excessive hair fall, check with your doctor immediately. Check its body parts for possible signs of infection or medical condition. Check its head, its toes, and its tail. Thoroughly check its coat and make sure that no fleas are hiding underneath it. As canna-pet put it, with proper diet and regular grooming and check-up, you can raise a healthy, active, and more fun canine that you can spend your days with for up to 13 years. There are lots of reasons why your German Shepherd might bite their tail. Lots of different breeds do this at different points in their lives, so most of the reasons why your German Shepherd is biting their tail might explain why any breed does this. One of the most common reasons why German Shepherds bite their tails is because they are playing. However, you will usually be able to tell if your dog is biting their tail playfully through their behavior. Your German Shepherd could also be biting their tail because they have fleas or because they are suffering from allergies. German Shepherds are one of the breeds that often suffer from allergies, so if you suspect this to be the cause, then you should speak to your vet. Do you dock German Shepherd tails? No, you do not dock German Shepherd tails. This, sometimes controversial, the process is something that should only be done on working dogs as a way to protect them from injury. As German Shepherds are often working dogs, many people expect that their tails should be docked, but this does not need to be done. The primary breeds that have their tails docked for working purposes are corgis and Aussies. This is done to protect their tail when they are working with heavy livestock, such as cows and oxen. But, German Shepherds only ever work with sheep and smaller animals, like ducks, goats, and geese. Due to this, there is very little risk of injury to the tail, as the animals that German Shepherds work with are small. Meaning that there is no need to dock their tails. German Shepherds are well known for being very fluffy, with their tails being one of the most memorable things about them. If your German Shepherd passes this age, and their tail is still not fluffy, then it is probably due to genetics. Some breed lines of German Shepherds do not have fluffy tails, so it is possible that your dog belongs to one of these lines. Most German Shepherds have straighter tails that hang down with a slight curve. As explained above, German shepherds typically have fairly straight tails. If the curl is tightly wound, held high, and raps around over the back over vertical , this suggests that your GSD likely has mixed genetics. The most common genetic mix causing a tightly curled tail would be from a breed in the spitz family, all of which have tails like this. Can we be sure of that? Typical German Shepherd tails follow the line of their croup lower back smoothly down to their hock joint ankle. When resting the tail should hang lower rather than high, predominantly straight but with a slight curve like a saber sword. When excited the tail will likely raise up and be held in somewhat of a higher position. Photo Examples: Source The end of the tail can sometimes be straight or slightly curled. Genetic make-up plays the most significant role in the appearance of your GSD, as do inherited faults and unique body structure differences. The only true way to know if your GSD is purebred is to have a DNA test done or have official documentation of both parents stating that they are purebred. Is it possible? This is very important to keep in mind. Additionally, tail positions change depending on their current mood, feelings, and temperament. Puppies that are excited and playful will almost always have a raised tail, but this might drop down when they are either calm, resting, nervous, fearful, or anxious. On the other hand, if your GSD puppy has an extremely curled tail that sits high over his back, this does point towards mixed genetics. Brush Regularly Most GSD owners already know that having a regular brushing routine is extremely important. The issue, however, is that the tail is often neglected for other pairs of the body such as the back and neck. The tail needs just as much brushing! Be sure to spend an extra couple of minutes focusing solely on the tail. The best brush for the tail would be a quality slicker brush. This is essentially a mini bath , without the hassle, and without risking those essential oils. A quick baby wipe of the tail will help keep muck, dirt, and bacteria from building up. This sensitivity then causes the GSD to curl the tail upwards. Although this makes sense, to a certain degree, there has been no scientific evidence or any substantial research to back up this claim. Redirection training will likely be your best bet, but this will take time and consistency on your part to ensure you redirect your GSD on to something else, every single time he tries biting his tail. Additionally, be sure to have a quick inspection of the bum area. Anal Furunculosis is another potential cause of tail biting. This is a chronic, progressive inflammatory disease and will need veterinary attention. A casual look and feel while your GSD is calm and relaxed in the evening times could get you in front of any potential problems. Last thoughts German Shepherds typically have straight tails that hang down with a slight curve, similar to that of a saber sword. If a German Shepherd has a tightly curled tail that sits high up, curling over the back, this is a strong indication that he has mixed genetics. What kind of tail does your German Shepherd have? Let me know if this article has helped you if you have further questions! Thanks for reading! The Puppy Mag makes an active effort to search for plagiarized content using plagiarism detection software. If plagiarized content is found, action will be taken. Is it normal to have a German Shepherd with a curly tail? If your German Shepherd dog or puppy has a curly tail, it is natural and not a health concern. A curly tail in German Shepherds is an inherited genetic feature, most commonly undesirable in the show circuit. The curly tail is classified as a tail held up higher than the normal position and exhibits an upward curl. A German Shepherd tail can have a slight curve to it or a prominent loop of a curl. The two types are different in the sense that a dog with a straight tail can still choose to hold its tail with a slight curve. This curve is not considered a curly tail provided that the tail does not raise above the horizontal. The way that the tail looks comes down to genetic factors, for the most part. It can also be caused by tail breakage upon birth or problems in the womb. It is perfectly normal for your German Shepherd to have a curly tail. The curly tail is most often merely an inherited trait. However, it is considered a defect or genetic fault by the AKC standards. A tail affected by breakage or problems in the womb has less of a smooth curve and possibly a kink in the tail, causing it to bend, giving the appearance of a curl. The curl is a genetic trait carried down by one or both parents. Contrary to popular belief, even well-bred German Shepherds are born with defects at times, and this not necessarily the result of backyard breeders. Although it is considered a genetic defect by the AKC, there is nothing inherently wrong with German Shepherds with a curly tail. A curly tail is only a problem when you intend to show your dog and hope to win prizes for their appearance, as a curly tail often results in disqualification from shows. For the most part, it is impossible to completely avoid breeding puppies with a tail defect. Unless one of the parents had a tail defect before breeding with them, there is no way of determining whether or not two parents will produce puppies with or without tail defects. If one of the dogs you intend to breed with has a curly tail, you can take preventative action and abstain from breeding to avoid passing on the defect. If your German Shepherd is born with a curly tail, it may feel tempting to have it reversed or fixed to pursue a career in the show ring. There are many ill practices performed on German Shepherd tails, including surgery to the tendon and even breaking the tail. Changing the tail in any way unnatural to your dog is considered malpractice and should be strictly avoided. If the defect occurred in the womb, it is still unlikely that there is any humane procedure to reverse the kink or curl. A curly tail in itself is unlikely to have an impact on the recurrence of tail problems; however, poorly selected breeding pairs could have an effect. In general, good breeders carefully select the two parents before breeding, taking into account defects, hereditary diseases, and conditions. In the case that inexperienced breeders breed two German Shepherds, defects, including tail defects and problems, are substantially more likely. It is always wise to be aware of these conditions to care for your German Shepherd dog properly. Anal Furunculosis In German Shepherds A common hereditary problem that German Shepherds get affecting their tails is anal furunculosis. This disease is aggravated by the common tail position of a classic German Shepherd. The bushy tail is held close to the anus when in a normal position. The disease thrives in areas like these with constant moisture and lack of air movement. The skin under the tail is better exposed to oxygen. It can remain dry easily with less contact against the anus, as is the case in dogs with a highly held or curly tail. German Shepherds And Limber Tail Syndrome Limber tail syndrome is a condition common in working dogs, including the German Shepherd dog, often referred to as cold tail, water tail, or limp tail. Source A limber tail syndrome is a condition caused by overworked tail muscles. The most common causes for over-exerted tail muscles are swimming in water that is too cold, exposure to hot temperatures, or intense exercise. Source The most common signs of Limber tail syndrome are: A limp or hanging tail that could appear broken. Pain or aggression when touching the tail. Swollen tail tissue. The condition is generally treated with anti-inflammatories, and symptoms can subside within a week or two. A common area of inflammation is the skin on the tail. You may notice your dog is chewing and scratching their tail a lot. Watch out for hair loss and signs of itchiness if you suspect your dog has a skin infection on his tail. If you notice symptoms associated with a skin infection of the tail, visit your vet as soon as possible. Your vet will most likely treat your dog with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories for the infection and itching. Ultimately, curly tails are just as prone to skin infections as straight or curved tails. Body Language: Curly Tail Vs. However, the movements of a curly tail hold the same meaning as straight tails. A tail position that may confuse you with a curly-tailed German Shepherd is when the tail is held up to express excitement. When a German Shepherd with a straight tail is alert or excited, they erect their tale, holding it higher in the air. A curly tail that is naturally held above the horizontal may appear excited or alert when this is merely the relaxed tail position. As mentioned above, the meaning of tail movements between a curly tail and a straight tail is the same. A tail that is swinging or swaying side to side in a slower way shows that your dog is insecure of something in its environment. When your German Shepherds tail is raised higher than its normal position, something has grabbed its attention. There are no side-effects to having a curly tail, and, at the end of the day, all that matters is that their tail wags when they see you. German Shepherds are proud, easily trainable , highly intelligent dogs, who love being active and pleasing their owners. If you are interested in showing your Shepherd or wonder if you indeed have a pure-bred dog we will help you determine if your Shepherd meets the standard or AKC definition of German Shepherd dogs. It is set smoothly into the croup and low rather than high. At rest, the tail hangs in a slight curve like a saber. A slight hook- sometimes carried to one side-is faulty only to the extent that it mars general appearance. When the dog is excited or in motion, the curve is accentuated and the tail raised, but it should never be curled forward beyond a vertical line. Tails too short, or with clumpy ends due to ankylosis, are serious faults. A dog with a docked tail must be disqualified. What is a canine hock joint? The canine hock joint is like the ankle joint in humans. What is a canine croup? The croup is the section of the dog where the back flows into the tail. Therefore according to AKC standards the back should flow into the croup which smoothy transitions into the tail. The position of the tail should hang down rather than be set high up on the croup. What is a docked tail? A docked tail is purposely cropped or surgically removed called a caudectomy to change the appearance usually for cosmetic reasons. According to AKC standards a German Shepherd with a docked tail is cause for disqualification in competitions. What is ankylosis? Ankylosis, is the complete loss of movement in a joint caused by degeneration and fusion of the bony surfaces. This may result from injury, infection, or inflammation. Ankylosis in dogs may also occur as a consequence of surgical fusion of a diseased joint to correct a deformity or to alleviate persistent pain. You may be wondering if a curly tail in German Shepherds is normal? A typical German Shepherd tail is supposed to be between 9 and 14 inches long. Basically long enough to reach past the hock joint. Curly tails in Shepherds are a genetic trait. It could also be a sign of mixed breeding. If your dog does have a prominent curly tail and you are certain she is a pure-bred Shepherd it could just come down to random genetics. That is why a purebred German Shepherd can still have a curly tail. So it is perfectly normal for your German Shepherd to have a curly tail, because the curl is a genetic trait passed down from one or both parents, and not necessarily the fault of the breeders. A curly tail is only a problem if you intend to show your dog as the AKC has strict standards when it comes to the shape and curl of the tail. In and of itself a curly tail is unlikely to have an impact on the incidence of tail problems or be an indicator that your dog will develop them down the road. The rate of tail problems and other genetic issues are most impacted by breeding. Common Tail Problems In German Shepherds Even though a curled tail is not an indication of future problems with the tail German Shepherds do have three common issues with their tail. Skin infections German Shepherd tails usually do not have that much skin, so this area is prone to infection. Infections can lead to hair loss due to constant itching and chewing to relieve the discomfort of allergies. That is also perhaps the main reason your Shepherd might be biting his tail. Cuts, scrapes, and bites can also lead to skin infection. If left untreated hair loss is likely. Since dogs are likely to lick or scratch infected areas topical antibiotics are usually not very effective. For that reason oral antibiotics are usually recommended. Anal Furunculosis An inefficient immune response or genetic traits passed down from the parents can cause a chronic inflammatory disease called Anal Furunculosis. It typically occurs in middle age to older German Shepherds. In that regard a Shepherd with a curly tail is less likely to develop this issue because the tail curls higher away from the anus creating better air flow. Often caused by overexertion, it can also be caused by: Swimming in cold water.
Further information: Bullenbeisser Friedrich Robert and his boxer, The Boxer is a hunting mastiff developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser , a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant , in northern Belgium. The Brabanter Bullenbeisser is generally accepted as being a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much since. During World War I , the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack carrier, attack dog , and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, the dog was introduced to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog. Boxer early genealogy chart Flocki, the first Boxer German citizen George Alt, a Munich resident, mated a brindle-colored female dog imported from France named Flora with a local dog of unknown ancestry, known simply as "Boxer", resulting in a fawn-and-white male, named Lechner's Box after its owner. This dog was mated with his own dam, Flora, and one of his offspring was a female called Alt's Schecken. George Alt mated Schecken with a Bulldog named Dr. Flocki was the first Boxer to enter the German Stud Book after winning the aforementioned show for St. Bernards in Munich , which was the first event to have a class specific for Boxers. Blanka von Angertor, Flocki's sister, was even more influential when mated with Piccolo von Angertor Lechner's Box grandson to produce the predominantly white particolored female dog Meta von der Passage, which, even bearing little resemblance with the modern Boxer standard early photographs depict her as too long, weak-backed, and down-faced , is considered the mother of the breed. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white particolor, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing female, few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day pedigrees. Combined with Wotan and Mirzl children, they made the Boxer. Breed name[ edit ] The name "Boxer" is supposedly derived from the breed's tendency to play by standing on its hind legs and " boxing " with its front paws. Brace's Pet Owner's Guide to the Boxer, this theory is the least plausible explanation. At that time, the spelling "baxer" equalled "boxer". Both the verb boxen [English "to box, to punch, to jab"] and the noun Boxer were common German words as early as the late 18th century. The term Boxl, also written Buxn or Buchsen in the Bavarian dialect, means "short leather trousers" or "underwear". The very similar-sounding term Boxerl, also from the Bavarian dialect, is an endearing term for Boxer. These dogs were the result from mixes of Bullenbeisser and other similar breeds. Bier beer probably refers to the Biergarten, the typical Munich beer garden, an open-air restaurant where people used to take their dogs along. The nickname "Deutscher Boxer" was derived from Bierboxer and Boxer could also be a corruption of the former or a contraction of the latter. This seems improbable. Any such action would likely result in a badly bitten if not broken leg. On the other hand, a German breeder of 40 years' experience states positively that the Boxer does not use his feet, except to try to extinguish a small flame such as a burning match. But a Boxer does box with his head. He will hit not bite a cat with his muzzle hard enough to knock it out and he will box a ball with his nose. Or perhaps, since the German dictionary translates Boxer as "prize-fighter", the name was bestowed in appreciation of the fighting qualities of the breed rather than its technique. Boxer is also the name of a dog owned by John Peerybingle, the main character in the best-selling book The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens , which is evidence that "Boxer" was commonly used as a dog name by the early 19th century, before the establishment of the breed by the end of that same century. A brindle Boxer with two white socks Brindle, fawn, and white Boxer puppies See also: Dog health A healthy Boxer puppy Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers , heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called " Boxer cardiomyopathy " , [35] hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. An emerging health concern among boxers is Boxer Juvenile Kidney Disease JKD , where the kidneys do not develop normally during gestation and leads to chronic renal failure. There is strong evidence to suggest JKD is an inherited condition in boxers with research being undertaken by the University of Ohio to determine the gene mutation, as well as other work separately by the UK Boxer Breeder Council. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. See also: Dog food Boxers need plenty of exercise, which means their diet should be high in quality calories. The main source of these calories should be lean animal protein, which include lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. They sometimes appear at dog agility or dog obedience trials and flyball events. These strong and intelligent animals have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. The versatility of Boxers was recognized early on by the military, which has used them as valuable messenger dogs, pack carriers, and attack and guard dogs in times of war. Notable Boxers[ edit ] Punch and Judy were awarded the Dickin Medal for conspicuous gallantry or devotion to duty while serving in a military conflict. There are just two purebred Boxer colors: fawn, and brindle—with or without white markings. Different levels of these pigments determine the different colors. For example, black can produce a grey or brown coat, and red can produce a yellow or cream coat. Dogs have 8 genes that determine coat color. Each one is responsible for different types of color. Examples: an agouti gene creates coat patterns. What about the fawn color? How do experts define fawn coat color in dogs? Fawn Coat Color Boxers have variations of the red coat color pigment, not the black. The red-based fawn coloring can range all the way from light tan to dark mahogany. Brindle is dominant over fawn, but the combination of genes in an individual puppy determines its coloring. As with fawn vs. Certain colors can be linked to health conditions. The most common relationship most people know about is white color and deafness. White color and hereditary deafness are linked in many animals. This is because lack of pigment is genetically connected to inner ear degeneration. Some dog breeds, such as the Dalmatian, are more prone to hereditary deafness than others. What about a flashy fawn Boxer dog with a large amount of white coloring? Deafness Any dog, regardless of breed or color, can be born deaf or become deaf later in life. Breeds with a high rate of congenital deafness often have a significant amount of white coat coloring, but color is not the only cause of deafness. Boxers in general do not have a high incidence of deafness. If a Boxer has a large amount of white, especially on the head, then the risk for deafness does increase somewhat. What about temperament? Boxers are a much-loved breed with a long and interesting history. The Boxer dog we know today was first developed in the s in Germany. The ancestry of the Boxer can be traced to a very old breed called the Bullenbeisser bull biter. The Bullenbeisser was crossed with smaller dogs to create the modern Boxer. Boxers belong to the working dog group and have been used as guard dogs, military dogs, and even guide dogs for the blind. How large will your fawn Boxer dog get? Boxer Description The Boxer is a sleek and athletic medium sized dog. An adult male boxer weighs between 65 and 80 pounds. The breed standard calls for females to weigh about 15 pounds less than males. The Boxer has a distinctive head with an alert and intelligent face. Both the fawn and brindle Boxer dogs have short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. Boxer Personality and Training As a working dog breed, the fawn Boxer dog has an alert and intelligent nature with a strong work ethic and a love of exercise and activity. Experts recommend that you enroll your Boxer in formal puppy training classes and socialize your dog around other dogs, animals, and people. As a working breed, Boxers enjoy stimulating and interactive organized activities like agility and obedience trials, sheep herding, and lure coursing. Boxers also make excellent therapy dogs. Boxer Health We talked about a slight risk for hereditary deafness in white Boxer dogs. What about the fawn Boxer dog? While there are no known health issues connected to the fawn coat color, there are a few inherited health conditions common to fawn and brindle boxers. Like many dog breeds, Boxers can be prone to the joint conditions hip and elbow dysplasia. Dysplasia is a joint deformity that can cause chronic pain in your Boxer. Boxers can also be prone to two genetic heart conditions: aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy is an electrical conduction disorder that causes the heart to beat erratically and can also be life threatening. Other issues Boxers can also be at risk for certain kinds of cancers, thyroid problems, and a neurological condition called degenerative myelopathy. While Boxers can be prone to some potentially serious inherited health conditions. The good news is that there are health tests including genetic health tests for many of them. But before you fall in love with a particular puppy, make sure to choose a responsible breeder who follows the health testing guidelines outlined by the official breed club. Boxer health tests can take the form of blood and DNA tests, X-rays, and heart monitoring and echocardiograms. Health testing information should also be certified by an official canine health clearinghouse like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. A healthy puppy should have clear eyes, clean ears and nose, a shiny coat, and well-formed stools. Boxers are one of the most popular dog breeds, and for good reason! They are loyal, energetic, friendly, intelligent, and brave. The Boxer is a handsome dog breed and fans can have definite preferences for what their Boxer should look like. The fawn Boxer dog can be solid colored or fawn and white. The fawn coloring can vary from light to dark and the amount of white can vary as well. Remember to take your new best friend to puppy kindergarten to ensure that your dog is well trained and socialized. Already have a fawn Boxer dog? Tell us about your Boxer in the comments! References and Resources Strain, G. The Genetics of Deafness in Domestic Animals. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, .American Kennel Club. Hip Dysplasia. Veterinary Specialty Hospital. Tou, S. Aortic Stenosis. Merck Veterinary Manual. Wallner, W. Boxer Cardiomyopathy. American Boxer Club. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.
Great for active families Sheds a moderate amount of hair Excellent watchdog Heavy shedders during the changing seasons Will protect you without question Not considered an apartment dog breed. If not properly cared for this breed can become destructive and difficult to handle. The German Shepherd may be one of the best breeds out there, but without proper care and training, it can be a handful. But prices can vary depending on the breeder. When looking for a breeder, it is important to set your budget before you start searching for a puppy. If you have an exact price in mind, this will help you eliminate breeders that are outside of your price range. The GSDCA has made it easy for you by providing their members with the option of putting their kennel names on the list, but not all breeders are willing to do this. Therefore, if you find that there are no GSDCA member kennels in your local area, it may still be possible for you to receive information from them about other breeders or clubs in Rhode Island. Another way to find a responsible breeder is to ask your veterinarian for a referral. If you do not currently have a veterinarian, you can always ask the staff at your local pet store to help point you in the right direction. This will allow you to see the parents of the puppies, as well as the living conditions of the puppies themselves. You should never purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with this information. When meeting with the breeder, be sure to ask them questions about their dogs such as: How long have they been breeding German Shepherds? Do they have any health clearances for the sire and dam of the litter? Are their dogs registered with a national breed club? What type of guarantee do they offer on their puppies? Visiting your potential breeder is a crucial step in selecting a puppy. You can get vital information from a visit to the premises. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Rhode Island When you are meeting with the breeder, be sure to ask if they have any references that you can contact. Most breeders should be more than willing to provide you with this information in order to secure a sale. Remember, the more information that you have about other people who have purchased puppies from them in the past, the better your chances are of receiving quality assistance when it comes time to take care of your puppy when you bring him or her home. References will also help you determine if the breeder is reputable or not. Ask Your Rhode Island German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers Most responsible breeders will be more than happy to put you in touch with past customers so that you can ask them questions about their experience with the breeder. Be sure to ask the following questions: How was the communication between you and the breeder? Did they provide you with any health clearances for the puppy? Was the breeding stock healthy? Were the puppies well socialized? What type of training did the breeder provide? Did you have any problems with your puppy after you took him or her home? As with any breeders, you should always ask where they get their puppies checked out. You do not want a breeder that cannot give you references to other breeders or people who have bought from them in the past. A reputable breeder will be able to give these references without thought because of all the people they have shared their puppies with in the past. Another point, when looking for German Shepherd Breeders in Rhode Island make sure you find out how many litters a year they produce. A good breeder will only have two to four litters per year. If they have a good veterinarian, ask if you can also use them. Some people have a hard time finding good veterinarians and if the breeder you are interested in already has a good one, it might be in your best interest to use them. This is especially true if you live out of state and will not be able to take your puppy to the vet for its first round of shots. For example, do they breed for money or do they breed because they love the breed and want to improve it? A good breeder will never put money over the health and well-being of their dogs. They will also never sell their puppies to pet stores. Another red flag is if the breeder tries to rush you into buying a puppy. They should also be willing to let you come and visit their facility as well as meet the parents of the puppies. Legitimate breeders will never require this type of payment as it is usually a sign that they are trying to scam people out of their money. All reputable breeders will screen their puppies for genetic health issues and will be happy to share this information with you. This can help you determine if the puppy is likely to develop any health problems down the road. Can you trust this person with your money and your new puppy? The next thing you want to consider is who will take care of your dog? This means putting away any small items that the puppy could chew on and making sure that all the cords are hidden. This will help them get on a regular schedule and prevent any accidents from happening in the future. Start working on potty training immediately, otherwise it can be difficult to housebreak a German shepherd later in life. When you bring your new pup home give them plenty of time to explore their new surroundings before getting down to business. Reward them with a treat when they go potty in the right spot and never punish them for having an accident. This will only make things worse and could potentially cause some behavioral problems down the road. German Shepherds are a great breed for people who have plenty of space and are willing to put in the time to train them. Happy dog, happy life. 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. Our breeding stock come from show rated and titled West German Sieger show lines. All of our dogs tested negative for all 11 German Shepherd specific genetic conditions including DM Degenerative Mylopathy and all additional genetic conditions. We breed for sound tempermants, character, structure, along with dark black and red pigmentation. All of our puppies are hand raised from birth in the home. References Dear Walter and Joanne Robert is a wonderful dog! He has fit in nicely here at the house and loves to go to the beach. He sleeps in our bed room and is never anxious to go out in the night. In between walks and the beach we go to for car rides to the office and the parks. We walk at least 3 miles a day and take lots of car trips. Hotels are no problem. I bring food, water, and a dog bed for him to sleep on. Thank you so much for getting us this great dog. My baby boy is just so curious about her and she is so gentle with him. My older dog is in heaven to have a playmate again. Hope all is well with you and your beautiful dogs. When I walk into the training class with her, people just stop and stare. She really is a beautiful dog. Talk to you soon. She has turned out to be a beautiful family dog and I have worked very hard to socialize her with people, children, cats and horses. We have 11 horses and my daughter, Rebecca, is a licensed riding instructor and Olga is very good with her students. I have been very busy running my business in North Attleboro, helping with the farm and all. When that is complete I would like to breed Olga as I did not spay her. I would like your advice when it comes to that. Thank you, Polly Schaefer. Mother dog birthed 11 pups but sadly seven puppies did not survive the house fire. Their mom and these four puppies were left at this house, no food, no water, and no medical attention for the poor burned mother. They had been on their own for several weeks before we became aware of them. They had lived off people coming by looking at the damage of the fire. Thankfully some left food on for them to eat. Predators were lurking around the remains of the home which forced mom and her surviving pups to go upstairs in a house that was extremely dangerous. This and a super busy Highway cause great stress. We knew we had to act fast to save them. Mother suffered burns and we believe it was due to her trying to save her babies. From what we have learned is that mom has never really had a home or easy life. She finally found a home and it burned to the ground. When they came into rescue they were not acclimated to people. All four have come along way since and love to be around people. All they want is love and affection. Miles, the runt, is the most shy of the four. Whereas Hugo thinks he is the Boss and in charge! Mavis is the easy going pup. Just laid back and happy just being Mavis! She needs a shirt with a peace sign on it. He is a character for sure. He keeps everyone entertained. Loves to play and wants everyone involved in the doggie games! They are all just sweet happy pups. Their owner was hospitalized and jailed with no intention or possibility of going back to try to recover anything. They just need a family that will keep them safe and give them love. But these puppies can become anything that they need to be. Hugo biggest. Then Ottis. Then Mavis. And shy Miles is the smallest. Half German Shepherd. All spayed and neutered. Vaccinations complete. Healthy and ready. Each dog will come fully vetted. Price also includes transportation and a Health Certificate as required by law. There is a .The remainder of the fee will be paid once you pick up the dog. Naturally the .It will be refunded if for any reason you decide you do not want to adopt, unless the transport has already left. To get a application please go to: saveapreciouspaw gmail. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Rhode Island? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Rhode Island cost? Breeders charge different prices for puppies. When you search for German Shepherds for sale in Rhode Island, you may find some puppies that are more expensive than others. The price can be affected by coat color, eye color, pedigree, and other factors. So start looking today for German Shepherds for sale Rhode Island and see what you can find. Will I only be able to search for local breeders? You will probably start by searching locally for Rhode Island German Shepherds for sale or similar. But we can connect you with not only German Shepherd breeders in Rhode Island but also breeders from all over the country. They are experts at making travel arrangements for puppies, so you can meet your new pup at your most convenient major US airport. How do you decide which breeders can join your network? We have a strict vetting process to ensure we only include the very best here, so people like you can search for Rhode Island German Shepherd puppies for sale with peace of mind. Find out more in our Breeder Pledge. Why should I use Uptown Puppies to find my new puppy? But there is often no way to tell whether they are ethical breeders who treat their puppies well. There are lots of scammers out there, so search here instead where all the breeders and companies have been fully vetted. Why should I avoid using puppy mills? Puppy mills are places where profits come first. As such, puppies are often kept in bad conditions and they can end up with health and behavioral problems. Many of them will live shorter lives too. We only include experienced and ethical Rhode Island German Shepherd breeders in our network, so stay away from the mills! Can I find lots of different types of German Shepherds here? We can connect you with breeders and businesses from all over the United States, and they have so many pups to choose from. Start your search today and find your dream puppy in no time. How exactly should I use Uptown Puppies? Just search for something like German Shepherd Rhode Island or similar, find a pup, connect with the breeder or business, and make arrangements to meet your new puppy. How do I know I can trust Uptown Puppies? You could start by seeing what everyone else is saying about us. Take a look through our reviews to find out what our customers think of the network. Only the very best German Shepherd breeders Rhode Island get into our network. Are German Shepherds suitable for senior citizens? Seniors should just be aware when they start looking for German Shepherd puppies in Rhode Island that these dogs need lots of exercise. As long as you are happy to take your dog out every day, they make wonderful pets. Are German Shepherds easy dogs to train? One of the great things about German Shepherds is that they are very smart. They are very eager to please, and they are obedient dogs too.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Is there anything cuter than a two-month-old Golden Retriever puppy? At eight weeks old, they are absolutely, impossibly, unbearably adorable! At two months old, a Golden Retriever is ready to leave their mother and littermates to join their new family. Some breeders will keep a puppy for a couple more weeks before sending them home, but eight weeks is very typical. Puppies at this age are usually playful and curious, with brains like little sponges. This usually only lasts a day or two, and then their true personality will shine through! They are in the prime socialization window here, which is the time between three and sixteen weeks when puppies are most open to learning about the world. Proper socialization can help you buffer against potential behavior issues as your pup matures, and teaches them how to feel and act in different situations and environments. It helps them feel confident and self-assured. A two-month-old Golden Retriever puppy is constantly learning! Make sure your puppy is learning that they are safe and that they can trust you both at home and out in the world. A fear period is a temporary span of time where a puppy may be more sensitive to things like strange people, strange dogs, inanimate objects, sounds, etc. It usually lasts about a week and you may notice your puppy showing signs of fear such as cowering, running away, growling, or barking. It can be a little scary as the owner of a puppy to see them acting this way. The good thing is that a fear period is short-lived and will pass. If they are concerned about something or someone, help them get more distance so they can observe the thing while feeling safe. They have a lot of needs and are totally dependent on you to meet those needs. Be patient as you help them learn how to live in our human world, and you can develop a strong, positive bond with your new companion. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! This is heavily influenced by genetics, but is not always the best indicator of their adult weight. Some lines of Goldens are bigger or smaller than average, so puppy size will reflect that. Your vet can help you make sure that your puppy is at an appropriate weight if you have any concerns. Eight-week-old Golden Retrievers need around 18 hours of sleep each day. Oftentimes, a puppy that is wild and bitey is in fact overly tired and in need of a nap. It may seem like they need more exercise to drain that crazy energy, but they actually need sleep. Using crates and pens can help ensure that your puppy is getting enough sleep at night and throughout the day. Many two-month-old Goldens are not good at putting themselves down for a nap, even when they really need it. So, you may need to step in and help your puppy settle in for some sleep. Make sure that their crate or pen is nice and comfy before you put them in for a nap, so they are more able to relax and fall asleep. Every puppy is different, so yours may prefer a nice cushy bed , or they may actually like laying on the bare floor. You can take note of what kinds of surfaces your puppy lays on around the house and then recreate that in the crate or pen. Covering the crate or pen with a blanket can also help make sleep easier for a two-month-old puppy, as it cuts down on the visual stimulation. Products like Adaptil spray or diffuser , and the Snuggle Puppy toy can also help a puppy settle in for sleep. Chewing and licking are naturally calming behaviors for puppies, so it can also help if you offer something like a stuffed kong , which can assist in transitioning the puppy from awake to asleep. Playing Classical music can also help a puppy feel more calm and able to sleep. At this age, most two-month-old puppies are ready for sleep after about an hour of awake time, so by following these tips, you can help make sure your puppy is getting enough quality rest. Instead, you can give them a break and see if they choose to get up, or simply scoop them up and walk home. Sometimes people get a Golden Retriever to be a running or biking companion, which can be a great thing when the pup is a fully grown adult, but is too much exercise for a young puppy. Playing with toys in the house or in the yard can be a great way for young pups to burn some of that puppy energy. If you have a yard, letting your pup safely explore and run around outside can also be a nice way to get in some exercise. You may also find that your puppy needs more sleep on some days, and on other days, they need more playtime and exercise. Golden Retrievers as a breed can also vary a lot in terms of exercise needs. Some are pretty laid back and chill and others are up for anything and want to go hard. These differences can be reflected in how much energy your puppy has, as well as in what kind and how much exercise your puppy needs. Training is an excellent way to build a positive bond with your puppy and create a way to communicate with each other. Group puppy classes can be a good option for getting started with training, as the trainer will help you learn how to train your pup. You can also hire a certified, professional trainer to come to your home and provide personalized training guidance for you and your puppy. Before you sign up with any trainer, be sure to ask them what kind of training methods and tools they use, to avoid causing any physical or mental distress for your puppy. Potty training is definitely a top priority for two-month-old puppies. They have small bladders and bowels and will need frequent trips outside to help them learn appropriate potty behavior. Crate training can also be started at this age, as learning how to be okay with confinement is an important life skill. Eight-week-old Golden Retriever puppies eat about a half cup of food three times per day. There is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to feeding your two-month-old Golden. Puppies at this age need more frequent meals than adult Goldens, so three meals a day is recommended. Because two-month-old Goldens are undergoing so much growth at this stage, feed them high-quality food that can support them as they mature. Most Goldens have big appetites and will happily gobble down their meals when you serve them. Using slow feeder bowls like this bowl on Amazon , or other food dispensing toys, such as the Planet Dog Snoop , can help slow down their eating and provide them some mental stimulation while they eat. Puppies like to put things in their mouth as a way to learn and play. Unfortunately, it can be pretty painful for humans, as those puppy teeth are needle-sharp! There are, however, some things you can do to minimize and deal with the biting. First, ensure that your two-month-old Golden is getting enough sleep. Overly tired puppies tend to get super bitey and frenzied, so naps are key to preventing your puppy from turning into a piranha. Your floor might look a little cluttered, but it helps to keep toys within reach for a quick redirection. Third, you can simply give the puppy a break if they are on a biting spree. You could step on the other side of a baby gate or put them in their pen to calm down a bit, and then resume the play. This communicates to the puppy that when they bite, they lose access to you and the fun stops. A common piece of advice when dealing with puppy biting is to yelp in response to their nip, as if you were another dog. This is actually not a good way to handle puppy biting and can actually make it worse. Other puppies will be further excited by the yelp sound and come at you with even more intensity, resulting in harder bites. Good Beginnings Bringing a two-month-old Golden Retriever home is a very exciting thing. It can also feel pretty overwhelming as you figure out how to care for and train them. You might be sleep-deprived and have a couple scratches on your hand from those sharp puppy teeth, but try to keep in mind that this is the beginning of a special relationship with an incredible animal. Focus on bonding with your puppy, teaching them about the world, and creating good habits from the start. Have any questions about raising eight-week-old golden retrievers? Let me know down in the comments! Read the rest of our Golden Retriever puppy series here:. How much does an 8-week-old Golden Retriever sleep? How much exercise does your 2-month-old Golden Retriever need? Eight weeks is typically when breeders allow puppies to be taken to their new homes, but some breeders keep them for a couple of extra weeks. This shy, sleepy puppy will eventually get more comfortable with its new environment and come out of its shell in a couple of days. Socialization is important for eight-week-old golden pups. Getting your pup used to these things is a good way to avoid potential behavioral issues as the puppy matures because it allows them to learn how to feel and react to various stimuli and leaves you with a confident, well-adjusted pup. You need to reinforce the idea that your puppy is safe and gain their trust during this time period. During this time, pups will be a little more fearful of things like strangers, sounds, and certain objects. It will pass, and usually only lasts a week or so. It can be a little scary or discouraging for the owner of a golden puppy to see them go through this fear period, especially if they start exhibiting fear towards people. Goldens are known to be such friendly and social dogs, so watching them exhibit such antisocial traits can be off-putting. You can still get them outside and introduce them to new things, just remain mindful of their feelings. You need to be patient with an eight-week-old puppy. These adorable balls of energy and fluff are completely dependent on you to meet their needs and there are a LOT of needs! Check out our article on the Best Shampoo for Golden Retrievers so you can meet their hygiene needs! You need to be patient with them so that you can not only bond with your new pup, but also help him grow and learn about the world around him. Sometimes the puppy that was the smallest puppy in the litter can grow and quickly become the largest. And the largest puppy of the litter may not always remain the largest. As a breed, Golden Retrievers vary in size and weight. So you should enjoy that before they grow too big to pick up and cuddle! You may be surprised to learn that 8-week-old Golden puppies require about 18 hours of sleep a day. This may seem counter-intuitive because most people would assume that if a puppy is full of energy it needs to run it off, but in all actuality what they really need is sleep. You should use either pens or crates to make sure that your pup gets the optimal amount of sleep both through the night and during the day. Here are some things you can do to help your puppy nap: Adorn their crate or pen with comfortable blankets or pillows. Learn whether your pup likes to sleep on a bed or on the floor, then set their crate or pen up accordingly. Cover the crate or pen using a blanket or towel so that their visual stimulation is limited. You can use aromatherapy products for dogs to lull your pup to sleep. Get your puppy something like a stuffed Kong toy because licking and chewing are relaxing to pups. Classical or calming music can help your puppy get to sleep. You can expect that your pup should be ready for a nap after being awake for around an hour. So, you can get him to sleep easier using these tips. An 8-week-old Golden Retriever puppy is largely able to know how much exercise it needs all on its own. What you should do instead is either pick them up and take them home or give them a break and see if they get a second wind. Golden Retrievers excel at playing fetch, but you need to keep games short. The running and then suddenly stopping to pick the ball or toy up and bring it back is hard on their tiny bones. People often adopt Golden Retrievers with the intent of getting a companion to exercise with running, hiking, biking, etc. Allowing your puppy to play with toys in your yard or house can be a good, safe way for your puppy to exercise. Having a yard is ideal because you can let your pup run around the yard and explore, while also burning off some excess energy. Just make sure you choose a short, easy walk that your puppy can handle. However, some days they have more energy than others, which is normal. Every Golden Retriever has varying exercise needs. Some are pretty chill and would rather lay around, while others are really hyper and active. You need to know that positive reinforcement works best for Golden Retrievers. You should avoid any sort of training that is based on punishment. There are also other training methods that can be beneficial to your pup. Group training is a good way to get your pup acquainted with other dogs and learn alongside them, while the trainer provides you with ways to better train your pup. You also have the option to hire a professional dog trainer, who will come to your house and give you customized tips to train your puppy. Before hiring any sort of trainer, ask them about the methods they use to avoid distress for puppies. They need to learn about confinement early on. Another important thing to teach your pup is their name, and to come to you when you call them. The bond with your pup is vital to any other training you do with them. For more about the training process, check out our article about Golden Retriever Puppy Training. Hey, food is good, okay? Most 8-week-old Golden Retriever puppies should be eating around half a cup of food three times a day. So, talk to your vet for a specific amount. They need high-quality puppy food. For more about what to feed your pup, check out our article about the Best Puppy Food for Golden Retrievers. Your golden puppy will probably quickly devour any food you place in front of them. It can be a good idea to buy a slow feeder bowl or toys that dispense food to slow them down a bit while also giving them some mental stimulation and making mealtime fun. Just as infants put things in their mouths, puppies do too. They do this to both plays and learn about their world. This can really suck for humans because puppies have sharp little teeth that feel like needles. The good news is that you can do some things to cut back on the biting and learn to deal with it. The first thing right off the bat you should do is to make sure your puppy is getting enough sleep. Secondly, scatter chew toys all over your house. Third, give your puppy a break if they start biting. This is as easy as going on the other side of their gate or putting them in their crate. This lets your pup know that when they start biting, the play stops, and access to you is denied. Many people suggest yelping and making loud noises when your puppy bites. But this is actually pretty counter-productive because it can make the situation worse by scaring the puppy. Other puppies can get more excited by the noise and bite harder. Biting is just something that puppies at this age do. However, remember that getting through this trying time is going to help you establish a lifelong bond with your new family member.
For example, white miniature German shepherds is a mixed breed with Maltese dogs. Since this breed is known for being short-tempered with kids, this may make them too scary for kids, a possibility no family wants. This may also make training harder, unlike standard GSDs that can easily be trained. For example, most miniature GSDs carry the intelligence and loyalty of German shepherds. This leads to plenty of differences between the personality of a miniature German shepherd and the standard GSD. Another good news is that those that belong to the purebred or the dwarfism category typically acts like how a standard German shepherd should. But a mixed breed like the white miniature German shepherd is not only a dog that looks like a German shepherd but smaller. They also have a different purpose, depending on the other breed. They are great for those who own their own farm. Despite a less aggressive behavior, they still qualify as guard dogs. German shepherds have great potential as a search and rescue dogs. Even more so with the mini German shepherd since their size allows them to easily navigate through most terrains. See also 17 Things To Know About German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix Take note, however, that miniature German shepherds, like any other dog, need to have a balanced work and play for a comfortable life. While the German shepherd traits work well with the working line, the traits from the miniature breed may work the opposite way for family dogs. Due to their small size, they can easily be carried from place to place. This makes them great for kids. However, as previously said, when mixed with incompatible breeds, they can exhibit undesirable behaviors. Some examples of such breeds are chow chows and chihuahua , which are the worst dog breeds for small children due to their snappiness. On the other hand, being bred with a collie, poodles, and other friendly breeds may make small German shepherd breeds better family dogs. This means the dog might inherit different traits that you might not know of. Information such as the DNA line and health data are crucial things that you should know so you can take care of the miniature GSD properly. Breeders that cannot answer questions about the parents or provide any documents to back their statements are likely to be the type that only goes after the money. There are also dogs that look like a German shepherd but smaller with a parent from another breed. Some can have different personalities, appearance, health issues, and so on. At the end of the day, you learned many valuable things in this blog post. Many questions have been answered about miniature German shepherds. The truth was revealed. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. What is a Miniature German Shepherd? Purebred or crossbreed? The other side claims it is a mixed breed. The truth is that the Miniature German Shepherd is indeed a crossbreed. Small-sized standard German Shepherds do not exist unless the dog happens to have dwarfism. To get a Miniature German Shepherd, the standard is bred with another purebred, most commonly the Collie or Poodle. Instead, take a look at the parents to get an idea of how a puppy could possibly turn out as an adult. The Intelligent Border Collie This breed is world-renowned for its smarts. A lovable family doggo with talents for competition and herding, it contributes desirable personality traits to make a German Shepherd Collie mix. It can weigh up to 44 lbs 20 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 17 years. Some health concerns to be aware of with this breed include bloating and an eye anomaly that causes partial or complete blindness. This dog makes an elegant and friendly family dog that is a fast learner. The Poodle excels as a competition dog and is also widely used for therapy. The Poodle can weigh up to 70 lbs 31 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 15 years. There are health concerns associated with this breed, such as epilepsy, canine hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy. The Loyal German Shepherd The German Shepherd is sharp as a tack and completely dedicated and in love with its family. Ranking as the 3rd most intelligent, you get a well-rounded dog that is not only stunningly beautiful with its thick coat, confident stance, and communicative features, but an excellent guard dog that will protect at any cost. It can weigh up to 88 lbs 40 kg with a height of 25 in 65 cm and has a lifespan of up to 13 years. For further insight into German Shepherd growth, take a look at this guide and chart. With the Shepherd breed, hip dysplasia is a common health issue that is seen in the Miniature variety as well. Shepherds are also known to suffer from a neural disease called degenerative myelopathy and endocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which is a digestive disorder. This is a rare inherited genetic disorder that results from breeding two purebred German Shepherds. A German Shepherd with dwarfism, though significantly smaller weighing up to 30 lbs , will exhibit the token characteristics and mannerisms the breed is known for. It will also look like a typical Shepherd, except with shortened limbs. This is one way to procure a smaller than normal Shepherd, but there will be extra health issues to deal with, such as allergies and thyroid issues. It is common for these dogs to bald as they age as well. Here is a cute video that gives a glimpse into what life is like for a German Shepherd with dwarfism. The Mini German Shepherd is undoubtedly smaller than the standard one, weighing up to 50 lbs 22 kg. Any combination of these colors can be inherited by the Mini. This Dog is a Devoted Protector maria. They make excellent guard dogs but are good-natured. If you have kids, the Mini will take full responsibility for their safety, with a healthy dose of playtime and cuddling thrown in. Hardworking and intelligent, they make phenomenal search, rescue and therapy dogs. Training is a breeze, as this breed is a fast learner remember, all of three possible parents rank TOP-3 in the smartest dog breeds list? The earlier you introduce behavior commands and socialization methods such as walks in the park where other dogs can be encountered safely, the sooner you will see the intelligence blossom. Hip dysplasia is the most common inherited disease from the German Shepherd parent. This painful condition occurs when an abnormality in the hip socket causes the dog to become crippled or experience agonizing arthritis. To keep your small German Shepherd in good health, plenty of exercises is key. This breed is also prone to canine hypothyroidism, which can cause obesity. No one can guarantee how a mix will turn out. The breeder should be able to present health clearances for hip dysplasia and other common diseases. Check out these Miniature German Shepherd breeders for available litters. The result is a Mini German Shepherd that is a versatile and playful, smaller breed that would make a good family pet or a mini guard dog. Designer dogs come in a variety of coat colors and types, depending on the parent mix, but this hybrid is likely to inherit much of the classic German Shepherd look, its working dog ethic, and intelligence. This petite mixed breed dog is energetic and family-friendly and will prove itself to be both affectionate and protective. A Mini German Shepherd puppy makes an adorable family pet for any dog lover. It is possible to find a very small purebred German Shepherd dog but that would only occur due to dwarfism in the breed. Fact: Pituitary dwarfism is a condition caused as a result of a rare genetic mutation in this purebred dog. Dwarfism in German Shepherd dogs is rare, and if it occurs the puppy may unkindly be referred to as the runt of the litter. A Miniature German Shepherd is the result of cross-breeding. It is a cross between two different dog breeds — a purebred German Shepherd dog and another smaller purebred such as a Collie, Border Collie, Poodle, or occasionally a Golden retriever, or even a tiny Yorkshire Terrier or a Corgi mix! This highly desirable and much loved purebred dog has a strong and impressive bloodline dating back to , in Germany. The German Shepherd was originally bred to be a skilled, powerful and obedient herding dog that was also used as a fearsome guard dog. History of the other possible parent s — crossed to produce this mixed breed dog The Collie When cross-bred with a Collie, it adds another herding and highly disciplined purebred dog into the mix. A Collie is also an intelligent dog and it too is easily trainable with a strong work ethic. Their mini GSG puppies would be a Black and Tan color, sometimes with white bits on their coat, and shed a lot! The Poodle A Poodle is a small dog that is increasing in popularity as the ideal partner for any designer dog combination. They have an easy-going and relaxed approach. They are good-natured and love nothing more than to curl up with their family member and go to sleep. The Golden Retriever and The Yorkshire Terrier are also very popular and much loved family dogs that are smart, family-friendly and easily trainable. Whatever the mix of breed of the Miniature GSD it is going to be a loveable and much desired family dog. However, the majority of the individual breeds used to create this mixed breed dog are. Considering the other parent breeds, mainly Collie and Poodle dog breeds, there are a range of possible coat colors for this dog breed, including Black and Tan, White or even fawn. What are the main characteristics of a Miniature German Shepherd? Like any other crossbred dog, Miniature German Shepherds can inherit the characteristics of either parent or both. It is sometimes thought that crossbred dogs are more likely to inherit health problems than purebred dogs; however, a puppy mixed dog can inherit all, some, or none of the health problems its parent breeds have. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent more than the other. The Miniature German Shepherd puppy tends to have more of the classic appearance of the standard German Shepherd parent, but it is a smaller breed of dog. The characteristics of Miniature GSDs are a combination of nature and nurture: genetics of the parents, the environment and the quality, type and amount of training and socialization. Loyalty and companionship Any mix of German Shepherd is likely to be extremely loyal and have a very loving temperament when trained and socialized properly. They will make a very caring and protective companion, for any dog lover. They can be very loving and affectionate dogs and enjoy company, and the more active their lifestyle the better. Reputation: The German Shepherd is a confident breed that looks fiercer than its actual behavior. The Miniature German Shepherd is a very cute mix and because of its smaller size it could be forgotten that this breed has a reputation for being a fierce guard dog and possibly one of the listed dangerous dogs when not trained and socialized properly. When handled correctly and properly trained the mini GSD can be an affectionate and reliable dog for a family or individual dog lover, who wants a companion. And a mini mix that tends to have the GSD look will be highly popular and desirable too. Although smaller it will still be an agile and alert dog that will need lots of mental and physical activity. The trainability of this intelligent shepherd breed dog should be fairly easy. Positive reinforcement and small treats will work well with this dog but not harsh control, any form of negative punishment or physical restraint as it may rebel. The mini GSD puppy is very energetic and easily bored, so to prevent mischief it will need at least one hour a day minimum exercise, building up hours a day in adulthood. That means they are clever, alert and used to working hard when trained. This dog is fairly easy to train and will love to have challenges and a working purpose. They will be strong, resilient and love a challenge with both mental and physical stimulation involved, otherwise, they may misbehave. Socialization: Early socialization and learning discipline are strongly recommended for any German Shepherd crossbred dog. Any type of hybrid dog with two intelligent parents will be strong-willed and want to be kept active and useful. They will not want a sedentary lifestyle and will enjoy as much exercise and action as the owner can provide. When trained and socialized this mixed breed dog will be approachable and friendly around children and other animals. Purpose: This breed will be loyal and true to their owner and protect them to the end. If the other parent is a collie then both were bred as fearless working dogs for herding and protection. This means they will want to work for their master and keep busy. Even is the other parent is a poodle or a smaller dog, they will still be clever and want to serve and obey their owner well. Behaviour: This breed can be strong-willed and needs to be trained early as it can easily and will become destructive, or bark if under-stimulated. Physical Characteristics of the Miniature German Shepherd Apart from being athletic, attractive and family and stranger friendly, the miniature German Shepherd will be loyal and protective, playful and guard its family and home with precision. German Shepherds are the third most intelligent dogs in the world behind the Border Collie and the Poodle, according to The Intelligence of Dogs. Can you get a miniature German shepherd? Miniature German Shepherds do exist. There are three types of mini German Shepherds. Some mini German Shepherds can be confused for GSDs that are suffering from dwarfism, resulting in their small size. A purebred German Shepherd that is undersized can be bred with a GSD of similar size and stature to create a mini version of the breed. However, the most common miniature German Shepherd is the result of breeding a GSD with another breed. What breeds were used to create miniature German Shepherd? In some rarer cases, a Yorkshire Terrier could be bred with a German Shepherd. So there can be no guarantee that a miniature German Shepherd will turn out a particular way. How big do miniature German Shepherds get? German Shepherd at the park Photo: Adobe Stock German Shepherds can grow to a size of cm 24—26 in tall and weigh between kg 66—88 lb. Needless to say, a miniature German Shepherd will be smaller than those dimensions. As a rough guideline, a mini GSD will be between cm inches in height and weigh up to kg 50 lbs. The designer breed should be a more manageable size than a GSD. Miniature German Shepherd physical characteristics German Shepherds can come in a variety of different colors but are usually associated with black and tan coloring. Other colors include all black, yellow, sable and brown. Miniature German Shepherds should display the beauty of their parent, as well as possessing a strong physique despite their small frame. Miniature German Shepherd temperament The idea behind a miniature GSD was for these designer dogs to mimic the traits of a German Shepherd in a smaller package. As a result, they should be intelligent dogs that are quick to learn new tricks and obedient when it comes to following commands. Given German Shepherds are mixed with Border Collies or Poodles, you can expect the offspring to be intelligent. Mini GSD should be friendly and sociable, but remain loyal to their owners and be willing to protect the home. They should be relatively easy to train given the high IQ of both sets of parents. As a result, mini GSD are usually eager to please their owners. Do miniature German Shepherds make good pets? Mini GSD will take up less space for those living in an apartment or a small home with room to move at a premium. As a result, miniature German Shepherds are often described as good apartment dogs. We never advise leaving a kid alone with a dog unsupervised. Are miniature German Shepherds working dogs? German Shepherds were originally bred to be working dogs. They were used to herd farm animals but serve a role in the military and police in modern society. Often mixed with working breeds such as Bordie Collies or Poodles, a mini German Shepherd should have a work ethic. They can be used as guide dogs or service animals due to their deep sense of loyalty and ability to learn new commands quickly. German Shepherds are often used by families as guard dogs. Do miniature German Shepherds need a lot of exercise? A tired dog is a happy dog! Do miniature German Shepherds shed? Mini German Shepherds do shed quite a bit. Owners will be required to brush their dogs on a weekly basis to get rid of debris and dead hair. The designer breed will blow out their coat once or twice a year. During this time, owners will need to brush their dogs on a daily basis. Of course, the amount of shedding could depend on what breed is mixed with the German Shepherd parent. For instance, Poodles are low shedding dogs that have hypoallergenic qualities. Are mini German Shepherds hypoallergenic? There is no such thing as a per cent hypoallergenic dog. The AKC list 19 breeds that are better suited to allergy sufferers on their website. Miniature German Shepherd health issues Usually mixed breeds are healthier than purebred dogs. German Shepherds do have a tendency to suffer from some health conditions, such as hip dysplasia and epilepsy. Other potential costs include dog food, pet insurance, grooming, vet trips and much more. Where to buy miniature German Shepherds? You should avoid using generic websites and contact a breeder directly. You can request to see their lineage and health checks from the vet. Mini German Shepherd to follow on Instagram For those people who are seriously considering a mini German Shepherd, the best source of information could be current owners with an Instagram page. You can always ask miniature German Shepherd accounts for information about the breed and what breeders they used. Here is a selection of some mini GSDs on Instagram. Life Span Did You Know? A Miniature German Shepherd is a cross between a German Shepherd and a smaller dog breed that is meant to result in a smaller version of a German Shepherd. Although these Mini Shepherds can inherit any combination of traits from their parent breeds, they tend to be energetic, intelligent dogs that bond closely with their families and are affectionate with them. Miniature German Shepherds make great family dogs. They may be hardworking while on a job, but they have a playful spirit while relaxing with their family. They also tend to get along well with children and other dogs in the family. Although they tend to do well with smaller pets they have been raised with, they do have a high prey drive. Mini German Shepherds are also protective and alert. They will bark to alert you and will be naturally suspicious of strangers. Proper socialization and training early on can help make sure barking does not become a nuisance and will help them open up to strangers once introduced. Miniature German Shepherds are highly adaptable dogs. They tend to be a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. But, they can adapt just as well to apartments as long as they get the exercise, mental stimulation, and attention they need. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat. Because they bond so closely with their families and want to be near them, they do not do well with long periods of alone time. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs because of genetic diversity. However, this is not a guarantee. They could inherit no conditions common to the parent breeds, but they could also inherit some or all of them. So, make sure you are asking them about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. For the Miniature German Shepherd, potential health conditions to be aware of include progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. Because of their body shape, they are also at risk for bloat. Although Miniature German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle on their own. Their high energy, working dog instincts, thirst for learning, and need for structured training can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners. Because of this, puppy training classes are recommended if you are not an experienced dog owner. They help reinforce training, strengthen the bond you have with your dog, and also offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. In general, a Miniature German Shepherd will have a coat that sheds moderately year-round and heavier seasonally. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath is usually sufficient for this coat type. If a Miniature German Shepherd has a Mini Poodle parent, there is a chance they could inherit the low-shedding Poodle coat. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Although good dental care for dogs is essential, it is often overlooked. This is one of the reasons why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in older dogs. You can help protect your pup from painful dental diseases later in life by brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day and keeping up with regular vet visits. Although a Miniature German Shepherd may be smaller than a German Shepherd, they are still a high-energy dog with working dog instincts. In addition to having a job to do, these dogs also need daily walks plus playtime and time to run to be happy and healthy. If they like it, swimming can be a good low-impact activity while they are still growing. Once puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like hiking, running, training for dog sports, and more to see what they like. A fully-grown Miniature German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs about 50 pounds. There can be some variation depending on the other parent breed in the cross, but meeting the mother dog in-person can give you a better idea of what size to expect in a Mini GSD. A Miniature German Shepherd generally lives for years. If the other parent crossed with a German Shepherd is a Standard Poodle, the result is a Shepadoodle. Featured Miniature German Shepherd Article. Standard German Shepherd Dogs In the late 19th century, various strains of German dogs were combined to create the ultimate herding dog. Today the breed is better known for their military, police, protection and service dog work. A well-socialized German Shepherd Dog makes a wonderfully loyal family pet. This is a well muscled dog with a deep chest and strong hindquarters, and he is longer than he is tall. Their double coat of medium length comes in a variety of colors. They have a long muzzle, confident head carriage, and pointed ears. Therefore that makes them more appealing to many people. The oversized round head and big eyes associated with little dogs engenders a feeling of caretaking behavior in people. This phenomenon is known as baby schema. Are Miniature German Shepherds Real? Miniaturization in dog breeding is achieved in one of three ways. A standard German Shepherd can be crossed with a smaller dog breed. They can possess the gene for dwarfism. The final way to miniaturize is to breed two exceptionally small purebred German Shepherds together. Miniature German Shepherd Mix Breeding a female German Shepherd with the male of a smaller breed produces a mixed breed dog. This is the most humane way to miniaturize. They could be smaller but not look or behave anything like a German Shepherd. The upside to crossbreeding is that it can reduce the incidence of passing along genetic health problems. Here are some breeds that breeders commonly mix with the German Shepherd. They measure just 10 to 12 inches and weigh from 25 to 30 pounds. Despite the size difference, these are both herding breeds who are smart and trainable. You can expect this mix to stand from 12 to 15 inches and weigh anywhere from 25 to 65 pounds. The Corman Shepherd will be an athletic dog who needs plenty of activity. This is a highly intelligent, loyal, and loving mix. In appearance, these two breeds are very dissimilar, so looks can vary depending on which parent the puppies take after. The standard Poodle is over 15 inches and weighs from 40 to 70 pounds. You can expect the Shepadoodle to range from 15 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 90 pounds. This is sure to be a whip smart and extremely energetic dog. He will need plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. The Shollie will be highly trainable. But a tendency to be protective might not make them the best choice for homes with small children. The Border Collie stands from 18 to 22 inches and weighs from 30 to 55 pounds. Physical characteristics of this condition include short bowed legs, longer body and issues with coat development. This would truly be a miniature German Shepherd in terms of temperament and behavior. However, pituitary dwarfism can have some pretty serious health effects. To a breeder, it means puppies whose weight at birth is abnormally low. To clarify, defined this way, you could have an entire litter of runts. Unfortunately, puppies who are born extremely underweight are likely to face many health problems throughout their lives. And the more underweight they are, the more they are at risk. Some breeders choose this method because the other characteristics of the breed will get passed down to the puppies. However, when two dogs who are way below the standard size are bred together, it increases the chance of passing along health problems as well. The standard female German Shepherd is somewhat smaller, standing from 22 to 24 inches and weighing between 50 and 70 pounds. To be a mini German Shepherd you need to be less than 22 inches tall and fewer than 50 lbs. But Miniature German Shepherds can be considerably smaller than this, depending upon how they are bred. Miniature German Shepherd size will depend on a number of factors. So crossing with a Collie would make a larger dog than one mixed with a Yorkie. A miniature German Shepherd full grown with the gene for dwarfism would have very short legs and weigh approximately 30 pounds. Breeding two very underweight purebred GSDs could potentially make an even smaller dog, but at what cost? Temperament: Intelligent, agile, noble, proud, alert, energetic, athletic There is a certain amount of controversy surrounding the breed, as the name is somewhat of a misnomer. Many backyard breeders attempt to sell the breed as a truly miniature version of a standard German Shepherd, but the truth is that the dog is a mixed breed. This means that the Mini German Shepherd may share many similar traits with a German Shepherd but may inherit other traits from their parent breeds too. If you are looking for a carbon copy of the German Shepherd in a smaller package, these, unfortunately, do not exist. That being said, the Miniature German Shepherd is a wonderful hybrid breed nonetheless, and if this dog sounds like it may be the one for you, read on for an in-depth look at this unique breed. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Miniature German Shepherd Puppies A post shared by Ailbhe Donohue ailbhedonohue Miniature German Shepherds can vary fairly widely in appearance and size, depending on what breed the German Shepherd was bred with. While they do often resemble a smaller German Shepherd, remember that due to their mixed genetics, they will not have the same temperament and characteristics as a standard German Shepherd. They are typically hybrids of a German Shepherd and a Border Collie or Poodle, so the resulting crossbreed is usually just as smart as their parents. The same goes for energy and exercise needs; with those parents, these dogs are high energy! These dogs need more exercise than even a purebred German Shepherd, and as any Miniature German Shepherd owner will tell you, it takes a great deal to tire these pooches out. This makes them excellent guard dogs, and they will do anything to protect their owners, just like a standard German Shepherd. One plus of having this smaller version of the German Shepherd is that they are highly adaptable and can live in small homes and apartments happily, provided that they get sufficient exercise. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They have a strong instinct to protect their owners, so they make excellent guard dogs. Like their parent breeds, they thrive off of human companionship and adore being around their owners. This can be a problem if you are out frequently, as they are prone to suffering from separation anxiety. If you are away from home for large chunks of time, this is probably not the breed for you. German Shepherds have a strong prey drive, and Miniature German Shepherds are much the same. This means that early socialization is essential for this breed — the earlier, the better — to prevent them from going after the family cat! Around 2 or 3 cups of high-quality kibble are ideal and should be split into two meals a day to prevent bloating. Be sure to check that the first listed ingredient on the food is an animal-sourced protein and that the food is free from too many filler ingredients, such as wheat, corn, and soy. While these dogs are not prone to getting overweight, too many of these ingredients can cause weight gain and digestive issues too. This will add welcome variety and give them a boost of high-quality protein and amino acids. We recommend at least 1 hour or 2 a day, but the more, the better. This could be a run, jog, or bike ride or an intensive interactive game, like fetch or frisbee. These intelligent pooches will love agility exercises and games, and this will give them plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Remember that these dogs have lineages that were bred for a specific purpose, and the closer you can get to giving them directed exercises, the better. They are highly intelligent, so mental and physical stimulation is essential to prevent boredom and undesirable behavior. Just like other working breeds, these dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This method requires consistency and dedication, but the result is well worth it. Try to begin training your dog from the day that you bring them home, as this will help set the training and prevent them from picking up any bad habits, which are harder to fix. The key to training these dogs well is consistency and repetition, but try to make training a fun experience and avoid too many of the same exercises. German Shepherds can be stubborn and aloof at times, and the same trait may be passed down to your dog. Early socialization with people and other dogs is crucial for avoiding this and will make training them easier. Bathing them with human shampoos or too often can strip their coat of its natural oils and cause further shedding and even allergies down the line. However, there are no guarantees, and there are a few issues that may be passed down from their parent breeds, including hip and elbow dysplasia, hemophilia, and epilepsy. Gastric dilatation-volvulus is fairly common in dogs with deep chests, so be sure to feed your dog two to three small meals throughout the day and avoid feeding them after exercise. Degenerative myelopathy is fairly common in senior German Shepherds and may be seen in German Shepherd hybrids too. Minor Conditions. Besides being hard-working herding and guard dogs , miniatures also have a bit of a soft side. They are not as aloof as full-sized purebreds, but may appear standoffish when around people or dogs they do not know. They are very protective of their owners and will be loyal to them. Those mixed with Golden Retrievers or Poodles have calmer temperaments than those mixed with Border Collies. Poodle or Golden mixes are ideal for families with children. Border Collie mixes will be higher strung and do not thrive in households with kids. This mix does not bark much. Regardless of temperament, all mini German Shepherds need daily mental and physical stimulation. Mental stimulation can come in the form of puzzle toys, feeders, sniffing outside, or training sessions. Physical stimulation can be jogging, walking, running, herding, or agility exercises. This mix requires a bare minimum of 60 minutes of daily activity. There is no guarantee what miniatures will look and act like. Most puppies retain the characteristic appearance and personality of the German Shepherd, but there will be some variation depending on the cross. A mini German Shepherd lives longer than a German Shepherd, on average. Miniatures can live up to 15 years, while purebreds live between 12 to 14 years. This is due to the fact that smaller dogs age slower than larger dogs. Also, being a mixed breed dog helps most minis have a longer lifespan, this is known as hybrid vigor. There is still a chance miniature German Shepherds will inherit health conditions from their parents. They are prone to hemophilia, elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, gastric dilatation-volvulus, epilepsy, and pituitary dwarfism: Hemophilia is a genetic condition where a dog has impaired blood clotting. Elbow dysplasia occurs when the bones forming the elbow joint are improperly aligned or have uneven growth patterns. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint socket does not nicely enclose the head of the femur, creating looseness. Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive breakdown of the spinal cord. This results in hind limb weakness and paralysis. Gastric dilatation-volvulus is a condition in which the stomach bloats and rotates on itself. It requires surgery to fix due and can be life-threatening. Puppies can be affected by dwarfism and growth hindrance. Dwarfism is an autosomal recessive disorder. Affected puppies will have legs that are abnormally short, bodies that are abnormally long, and hair coats that may have patches of baldness. There is some controversy surrounding miniature and teacup dog breeds. Some people mistakenly assume that a mini breed is simply a smaller version of its purebred parent. This is not true! The miniature German Shepherd is not a purebred dog breed; it is a hybrid mix. These smaller puppies can keep some recognizable traits of a German Shepherd, but they are not purebred. Some breeders try to sell their miniature puppies as purebred dogs. They do not exist unless you are considering dwarf, however these dogs come with many health problems. Most miniature German Shepherds are created via crossbreeding. There are two other ways that breeders may have litters of minis: Pituitary Dwarfism Breeding Runts Breeding two German Shepherds that are both carriers of the Pituitary Dwarfism gene is not ethical. Dwarves can be affected by many health conditions such as hypothyroidism, poor kidney function, and skeletal defects. Dwarves are not the same as miniatures. Some breeders selectively breed German Shepherd puppies that are runts. This can also produce smaller puppies after several generations. Similar to dwarfism, the practice of intentionally breeding runts can create puppies predisposed to health conditions. These puppies will have lower than normal birth weight and may fall behind on the growth curve. Make sure to avoid breeders that breed runts or dogs with pituitary dwarfism. Miniature vs. Standard Differences Miniature German Shepherds can be half the size of standards! This means they do not grow taller than 20 inches and weigh no more than 50 pounds. Due to their smaller size, minis have a slightly longer lifespan of 15 years. At first glance, mini German Shepherds look just like purebreds. They will likely keep the alert, athletic and muscular appearance of their purebred parent, but it will be on a smaller body. This means they are mainly tan and have a saddle-shaped black pattern on their backs. Other coat colors include: white, black, sable, black and silver, or black and red. They generally increase the price of miniature German Shepherds.
For the complete list please see our Boxer Breeders page. These prices are estimates only; each seller can charge whatever they like. The main factor that may affect the price of a boxer puppy is your location within the state which could either increase or decrease the cost. Other factors include breed popularity most popular breeds are generally listed at an average price , whether or not the dog has been AKC registered such registrations often come with a fee and if shipping is included in the price. There are several questions that should always be asked when deciding on whether or not someone is reliable enough to purchase from. Look out for these warning signs: The smell of ammonia or other foul odors this means the boxers were not kept clean Dirty cages, feeds or toys The presence of rats, mice or other pests. If at any point during your visit something seems off, trust your instincts and do not buy from the breeder. In some cases, it might even be helpful to contact your local SPCA or humane society as they may have handled situations involving this particular breeder. Meeting past customers will help you get a feel for whether or not you can trust the breeder and if they produce healthy, happy dogs. If their reviews are negative, be wary of buying from this person. Your breeder should have a good relationship with a veterinarian who is familiar with their practices and the conditions the boxers are kept in. If this is the case, how can you expect them to take care of your pup? Ask to See The Health Certificates for Your Boxer Puppy If any records exist, ask to see proof of all vaccinations, deworming and other procedures listed above; if none do, be wary. For this reason, you need to ask questions and obtain proof of any conditions your puppy may have. If the breeder does not provide this information easily, move on. This will prove that your Boxer Puppy is purebred and that the breeder is authorized to breed boxers. If these documents cannot be provided, take it as a warning sign. There are several simple things you can do in order to get yourself and your house ready. A playpen or kennel is perfect. In addition, you should also have all of the following essentials on hand: Water and food bowls. Keep reading to discover a reputable breeder in your area and see where boxer puppies are for sale in California! This small family-owned kennel focuses on improving and maintaining the Boxer breed via regular genetic testing, careful breeding practices, and a rigorous puppy placement process. Website: TelstarBoxers Telstar Boxers is a family-operated Boxer breeder in Temecula with a long history of producing healthy, well-trained pups. Their intense adoption policies ensure that only the most capable and caring pet parents end up with Telstar Boxer puppies. Notably, they also offer white Boxer pups at lower prices than their dark-furred puppies, making them one of the most affordable options for Californian pet parents. But in addition to the convenient location, Soleil Boxers is preferable due to their professional practices. Should you ever need to surrender your Boxer, Soleil Boxers will gladly accept the pup back into their care to make sure that it continues to receive the best care. This area is home to dozens of farms and ranches, making it an excellent place for boisterous Boxer puppies to grow up. Pet parents who want to breed Boxer dogs can also purchase studs from Encore Boxers. Things to Consider When Choosing Boxer Breeders Before you place a deposit on a Boxer puppy, be sure to take a little time to research your chosen breeder. Unfortunately, not all dog breeders are reputable, and purchasing a Boxer from an untrustworthy breeder can be a dangerous endeavor. For example, purebred Boxer dogs can develop hyperthyroidism , aortic stenosis, and hip dysplasia. However, many of the most severe health problems are entirely preventable with regular genetic testing. The best Boxer breeders in California test the DNA of their breeding pairs before allowing them to produce offspring, preventing them from puppies with life-shortening degenerative diseases. When adopting a Boxer puppy, ensure that your chosen breeder invests in genetic testing. Public Reputation Do you know what people are saying about your preferred Boxer breeder? Instead, they ensure that each puppy finds their ideal pet parent match. This process is typically done via an in-depth vetting process that may consist of a lengthy application or an at-home visit. In Summary—the Best Boxer Breeders in California The Boxer breed often gets a bad rap, but purebred Boxer pups from reputable breeders are often some of the gentlest and well-behaved dogs on the face of the earth. And those living in The Golden State have the good luck of having several trustworthy Boxer breeders from which to choose! Taking these additional steps before buying a Boxer dog can ensure that your new four-legged family member lives a long and happy life. Related Posts.
What supplies do you need to make sure you are ready? We have put together a 'must have' list for new french bulldog puppy owners. We usually start our puppies on Royal Canin Puppy as it provides proper nutrition and doesn't seem to be too rich for their tender little bellies. Buy a bag of the food your breeder recommends so that you have enough to get you by for a couple of weeks at minimum while your puppy gets used to his new environment, before you begin to transition to a new food. Believe it or not, there will be times when you need to leave home and you can't take your new puppy with you. Having a new puppy is like having a toddler and they want to put everything in their mouths. This can include electrical cords, furniture corners, remote controls, rugs, baseboards, and so much more. You would be amazed what your new puppy can manage to chew and consume - and this can be really bad for them, and sometimes deadly. Crate-training can help keep your puppy in a safe space when not being supervised. And remember, the concept of a crate can range from a traditional six-sided cage to a confined space with a baby gate. Having a myriad of chew toys is essential. You can get these from your local pet store, Amazon, or another place that sells pet supplies. These can easily be ingested by puppies and cause major internal issues that can lead to an expensive and painful surgery been there! We highly recommend natural animal bone chews such as cow bones or deer antlers. These last a long time and can be much safer if pieces are ingested. You will learn this quickly and will always have a little furry friend at your feet in the kitchen. The beauty of this is that you can use food to train your frenchie to do nearly anything you want. A good training treat will be very small and tasty. Too large of a treat could cause them to have an upset stomach, and could pose a choking hazard if they try to eat it too quickly. We teach our puppies to sit with treats as early as six weeks, and have even trained our adults to ring a doorbell to go outside to potty - all with treats! Baby Wipes: You french bulldog puppy will act like a baby, all the way from wanting to cuddle in your lap, to needing a quick wipe after potty. Don't worry, this doesn't happen every time, but having a pack of baby wipes handy is very convenient for those times where a quick bum wipe is needed. They are also good for wiping down wrinkly face folds, feet, and ears. We recommend the sensitive skin versions with little to no alcohol so that you don't run the risk of the wipes burning a sensitive or raw spot. Reach out any time to info flashyfrienchies. We are always happy to give new puppy advice! No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives Available as wet or dry food Formulas for breed size and specific health needs What We Don't Like Canned variety is not equipped with pull tab for opening Developed by veterinarians and manufactured in the United States, Hill's Science Diet dog food comes in a variety of flavors and formulations to meet the nutritional needs of dogs of every shape and size. The company employs over Ph. Hill's Science Diet is readily available as both dry kibble and wet canned dog food, and the brand offers formulas for puppies, adults, and seniors. Within those life stages there are size specific variations e. Hill's Science Diet dog food is always made with real animal protein as the first ingredient with human-grade ingredients providing essential vitamins and nutrients with each serving. With the right flavor and formulation for a dog, we found that consistently serving Hill's Science Diet leads to straightforward potty sessions and less dietary issues. But the price of this dog food has increased as of late, and the canned variety could benefit from an improved pull tab lid to make it easier to open without the use of a can opener. Hill's also makes a line of prescription foods for dogs with specific medical problems, Hill's Prescription Diet, but food within that line should only be served to a dog under the direction of a veterinarian and is only available with a prescription. By choosing a dog food with top ingredients, you can ensure your Frenchie receives the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. Salmon, poultry, and lamb are particularly beneficial sources of protein for French Bulldogs. Healthy Fats Healthy fats, such as omega-6 fatty acids, are an excellent source of nutrition for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help maintain a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, and result in a glossy coat. By providing your Frenchie with a diet rich in healthy fats, you can support their skin and coat health while helping to moderate inflammation. Beneficial Supplements In addition to high-quality protein and healthy fats, beneficial supplements like prebiotic fiber, probiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, and omega fatty acids should be considered for French Bulldog dog food. Prebiotic fiber and probiotics are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote digestion. Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential for joint health and support joint and cartilage health maintenance. Taurine and omega fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some dog foods that include these beneficial supplements are: Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food, which contains taurine for cardiovascular health Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food — which provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. By choosing a dog food with these beneficial supplements, you can provide your Frenchie with a well-rounded diet that supports their overall health. Potential Allergies and Sensitivities in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs may be prone to allergies and sensitivities , making it important to research the ingredients in their food and consult a vet if necessary. Some common sensitivities in French Bulldogs include corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. If your Frenchie shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it is essential to evaluate the ingredients in their food and seek veterinary advice if needed. If you suspect your French Bulldog has a food allergy , you may want to consider a limited-ingredient dog food or a grain-free diet. By being aware of potential allergies and sensitivities and choosing the right dog food, you can help your Frenchie maintain a healthy and happy life. Feeding Guidelines for French Bulldogs Feeding guidelines for French Bulldogs include following label recommendations for feeding quantity and dividing daily servings into smaller meals for sustained energy supply. For French Bulldog puppies , it is recommended to provide them with 1. Puppies aged between 2 to 6 months should be supplied with three meals per day, whereas older puppies should be given two meals daily. Adult and senior French Bulldogs should also be fed two meals per day. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your Frenchie receives the right amount of food for their age, weight, and activity level, helping them maintain a healthy body weight and preventing potential health issues. Our Top Picks: Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs in Our top picks for the best dog food for French Bulldogs in include a variety of options tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this charming breed. From weight management formulas to grain-free options and specialized diets for puppies and seniors, these dog foods offer the essential nutrients your Frenchie needs to thrive. Pet owners recommend this dog food for its weight maintenance benefits, quality ingredients, and multiple protein sources. Additionally, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and contains taurine, which acts as a natural antioxidant for your pup. By choosing the best overall dog food for your Frenchie, you can support their overall health and well-being. This dog food is specifically tailored for overweight and less active dogs, providing an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them reach their weight goals and maintain an energetic lifestyle. However, the benefits it offers in terms of weight management and affordability make it a great value option for French Bulldog owners. Food and food are both great options when it comes to feeding your French Bulldog puppies. Both provide a complete, balanced diet for their growth and development. Food provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. It is also easy to digest for optimal nutrient absorption, making it an ideal choice for your Frenchie puppy. It is worth noting that some puppies may not take to Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food, and it is more expensive than other dog food options due to its breed-specific nature. However, the benefits it offers in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it a top choice for French Bulldog puppies. It provides optimal nutrition to maintain their health and wellbeing. This specialized diet is formulated for French Bulldogs over the age of twelve months and includes L-carnitine and top-notch protein to sustain optimal muscle mass, probiotics to minimize intestinal fermentation, and a kibble design that is easy for Frenchies to consume and encourages chewing. While some dogs may not accept Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food and it is costly, the benefits it provides in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs. Customers say their dogs love the taste of this food. Additionally, it is excellent for dogs with food allergies. No longer will they suffer from itchy paws or diarrhea. By choosing a dog food specifically designed for French Bulldogs with allergies, you can help alleviate their allergy symptoms and provide them with a diet that supports their overall health and well-being. Customers have reported that their dogs enjoy the flavor of Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble and have maintained a healthy coat when consuming this food. By choosing a grain-free dog food option for your French Bulldog, you can support their overall health while accommodating their dietary needs. They come in a wide variety of flavors and are packed with lots of nutrition. Our dogs do deserve the best! Gradually introducing the new food over a period of days can help avoid these problems. If your dog experiences any digestive issues or stomach discomfort, consult your veterinarian for advice. Foods to avoid include chocolate, coffee, tea, grapes, and raisins. Instead, consider offering your Frenchie safe and healthy alternatives such as oatmeal, sweet potatoes, brown rice, fish, chicken, vegetables carrots, green beans, broccoli , and fruits apples, bananas, blueberries. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain about what foods are appropriate for your French Bulldog. By providing your Frenchie with safe and healthy food alternatives, you can promote their overall health and well-being. Homemade Dog Food Options for French Bulldogs While commercially manufactured foods are generally recommended for French Bulldogs, some owners may prefer to prepare homemade dog food for their pets. Suitable ingredients for homemade dog food for French Bulldogs include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, cooked vegetables, cooked grains, and healthy fats. If you choose to prepare homemade dog food for your French Bulldog, it is essential to ensure that the diet provides the necessary nutrients to support their health and well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on creating a balanced and nutritious homemade diet for your Frenchie. Summary In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for your Frenchie is an essential part of supporting their overall health and well-being. By understanding their unique nutritional needs, choosing high-quality ingredients, and providing a diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level, you can ensure your Frenchie thrives. With the right nutrition, your Frenchie will enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. Frequently Asked Questions What are Frenchies allergic to? French can suffer from environmental allergies such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and grass as well as food allergies such as corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens can help keep your Frenchie healthy and comfortable. This could include things like keeping the house clean, using air purifiers, and avoiding areas with high pollen. What should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? As the owner of a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to ensure your pup is getting the right nutrients. Feed them high-quality, nutritionally complete puppy food and, if desired, lean raw meat to provide them with the balanced diet they need. When he's not spending time with his furry best friend "Freddy II", you can find him reading up on the latest Frenchie trends or exploring new parks and hiking trails with his dapper little Frenchie by his side. Whether you're a seasoned Frenchie owner or just starting your journey, Freddy is excited to share his experiences and insights with you through his articles on this website. Butcher's Show full table Survey of 3, Which? Connect members who owned a dog in November .Brands listed in alphabetical order. Viewing results requires Which? We've compared the monthly cost of the three most popular choices, as well as the best and worst-scoring brands from our survey. Costs are based on an average medium dog kg , such as a French bulldog, on a simple dry-food diet. Medium dog: monthly food costs If you're not yet a member, join Which? Also a cat owner? Signs that your pet is eating a nutritious diet include clear and bright eyes, a shiny and dandruff-free coat, plenty of enthusiasm for life and a lack of excess body fat — you should be able to feel their ribs and see their waist. Which is healthier - dry or wet dog food? There's some debate regarding whether one is better than the other. The BVA says: 'There is not enough evidence to recommend one over the other; there are advantages to both. A vet will be able to recommend the most suitable diet. Dry foods are usually the most economical, and easiest for you to feed and store. Owners who feed wet food should monitor their pet's teeth, as it can predispose them to dental disease. Whether the food you choose is grain-free, raw, hypoallergenic or just a simple kibble, commercial-grade dog food that meets UK Pet Food guidelines is nutritionally sound. Some pets have specific nutritional needs based on clinically identified issues, and they should eat diets appropriate to their needs under veterinary supervision. The most suitable diet should be easily digested and produce dark brown, firm, formed stools. Here's what animal charity PDSA suggests you look for — and what to avoid — when choosing dog food. What to look for Something age-appropriate for your dog eg puppy, adult, senior A commercial dog food that's labelled as 'complete' A manufacturer that's part of UK Pet Food Avoid Table scraps and human food, as it can unbalance your dog's diet Giving your dog bones, as they can cause blockages and harm them Should I feed my dog raw dog food? Raw-food diets for dogs have become increasingly popular. One in six members told us that they feed their dog a raw food diet. Out of those, nearly four in 10 said they would never go back to dry or wet food. The BVA told us: 'We don't recommend a raw food diet, at least without a vet's guidance. This is for two main reasons: the nutritional deficiencies that often come with feeding raw food eg low taurine in cats or high vitamin A and the risks associated with handling raw food — both for the pets and the household. Some of the reasons owners prefer feeding relate to it being 'natural', coupled with perceived improvements in their dog's health. You should see no visible signs of damage to the packaging such as dents, tears or discoloration. Wash your hands with hot water and soap after handling either your pet, their food or its packaging. Immediately after each use, wash and disinfect all surfaces, dishes and utensils that have been in contact with raw food. Remove and carefully dispose of any uneaten raw pet food as soon as your pet has finished eating. Some of the reasons mentioned included that it was too messy or smelly, or concerns about contamination. Is preparing homemade dog or cat food a good idea? The experts we spoke to don't advise DIY homemade dog food. This is because it can be extremely difficult to put together a balanced, homemade diet for your pet, so it's generally not recommended, unless it's supervised by a vet. Can I my dog have a vegetarian diet? Do dogs need different food as they get older? It's essential that puppies are fed on puppy dog food, as they have specific energy and nutrient requirements. As they get older, different breeds of dog will age at different rates. My dog has allergies — should I buy hypoallergenic food? Some pets appear to be sensitive or intolerant to certain ingredients and additives, and this can cause a variety of problems. The most common food intolerances appear to be colourings, sugars, wheat, milk and soya. How much should I feed my dog? How much your dog should eat will depend on factors such as breed, type, age, health and lifestyle. For example, a working sheepdog needs more energy than a small dog with a less active lifestyle. On a day-to-day basis, ensure you're feeding your pooch the correct amount by measuring out each meal on weighing scales. A few extra bits of kibble might not seem like a lot, but it can massively contribute to weight gain. Most commercial dog food comes with feeding guidelines on the packaging based on your dog's weight and activity levels. If you're ever unsure, ask your vet. Is my dog overweight? Pet obesity is the top welfare concern for vets, according to the annual PAW report. Another study from the Royal Veterinary College RVC found that one in 14 dogs were recorded by their vets as overweight. The study also found that some breeds were more prone to gaining weight. The PAW report also estimated that around half of the overweight and obese dogs had health issues which could be related to their weight. Weight-related problems can range from musculoskeletal conditions to breathing issues and diabetes, among others. In order to know whether your pet is overweight, it's key to recognise its ideal weight and shape. A good rule of thumb is being able to see your dog's ribs. If you're planning to take your dog out for a walk, check our guide to the best dog harnesses How much should my dog weigh? Small: less than 10kg.
bull terrier boxer mix puppies - Tom Thorpe Blog Does your golden retriever puppy have diarrhea at night? There might be several factors that are causing your puppy to experience such diarrhea. This article will provide some of the most common causes of diarrhea that you need to know. What is diarrhea in golden retrievers? Let us first talk about what diarrhea is just to get a glimpse of an idea of what it really is just to avoid any misconceptions. Diarrhea can be an unsettling experience for humans and this is the same case for every dog out there. When a dog is experiencing diarrhea, its stool is usually loose or unformed, sometimes it comes in large amounts and sometimes small. Although diarrhea is not a disease per se, it can be linked to or a sign of various types of diseases. In addition, this simple illness can become serious to life-threatening. Although you might not be able to prevent diarrhea. So, this cannot be taken lightly instead, do something about it if your golden retriever is experiencing diarrhea. What causes diarrhea? When your golden retriever is experiencing diarrhea, his fecal material is underdeveloped and it moves fast through the intestine with the lack of absorption of electrolytes, nutrients, and water. For golden retriever puppies, one of the most common cases is parasites. This is because puppies are vulnerable to sickness and disease. Diarrhea can lead to underlying serious health conditions one of these is viral infections, inflammatory intestinal disease, allergies, organ dysfunction, to name a few. Your puppy will probably have a stomach upset or it will not digest the new kibble food properly. You slowly mix the old kibble food and new kibble food. This process can be done within a week. For example, on day 1 mix 80 percent of old and 20 percent new. Then the next day 70 percent old kibble food and 30 percent new kibble food. And so on until your puppy gets accustomed to the new dog food. But every pet owner has stated that transitioning their puppy to a new food has never been easy. This is needed more nutritional value, due to expensive brand and can no longer afford to buy it. Thus switching to cheaper ones. Sometimes due to the low nutritional value of the kibble food. Whatever the case in changing the dietary needs, your puppy will likely experience some digestive issues. This is when introduced to new kibble food and also while in the transitioning period. Although this is perfectly normal because your golden retriever puppy is adjusting to it. It may be due to emotional distress, stress, or anxiety Just like humans, dogs are emotional creatures. Their outlet for releasing stress in their body comes in many ways and one of it through the digestive system. Among the reasons as to why your puppy is feeling emotionally distressed is due to feeling lonely or neglected. To prevent any emotional distress or having bowel irregularities, make sure that you give plenty of love to your golden retriever puppy. Always pay attention to them because they needed to be supervised all the time. Medication or Antibiotics Nighttime diarrhea is sometimes caused by the side effects of antibiotics or medication which is fairly common. Your golden retriever may produce loose stool upon treatment of antibiotics. This is because the medication is fighting the infection and bacteria. Meanwhile, antibiotics can also kill good bacteria as much as they kill bad bacteria this is because they cannot tell the difference between the two. Thereby this results in an imbalance in the stomach which leads to abdominal pain, stomach issues, and eventually diarrhea during nighttime. The best thing you can do is to consult with your vet first and follow their specific instructions when giving your golden retriever puppy medication. In addition, medication should be given along with food to at least reduce the negative effect on digestion. Allergies and Food Intolerance Every dog has food intolerance and allergies at some point in its life but not all may experience this. The common reason why your golden retriever puppy has diarrhea at night might be due to their hypersensitive stomach. Most often, food rich in dairy, fat, or gluten is the cause. Therefore, it can lead to diarrhea or gas at night. There are breeds that have particular intolerance because of their genes. Like Schnauzers, they have food intolerance with high fat content. Furthermore, researching the best possible diet with come consultation from your vet is the best key to alleviate any food intolerance and allergies. Disease or illness Another reason why your puppy is having diarrhea at night is he might have an illness or a disease. These might be chronic or mild cases. One factor that must be considered is that diarrhea is just a secondary symptom that can be linked to severe health conditions. Furthermore, those several health conditions include liver or kidney disease, and that diarrhea is just a precursor to an underlying serious illness. Some of these causes are due to trauma, parasites, toxic ingestion, congenital disorders, and even bacterial infections. This can be fatal. It can be tumors or cancer in the intestinal tract. Ingested foreign object Sometimes the reason why your golden retriever puppy is having diarrhea at night is fairly simple. All puppies are curious gentle little creatures who want to explore within their own little world. They will try everything that they can out into their mouths. Puppies commonly ingest garbage materials, house plants, insects, toys, and even fabrics. Make sure to supervise your puppy at all times. That way, your puppy can enjoy exploring within the limited boundary. This is for further analysis. The common infection is an intestinal infection. There will be instances where relief or medication will not be enough. Never allow your puppy outside without close supervision You know what golden retriever puppies are. They are known for their high energy and active in exploring the outside in their own little world. But, take heed, if they are outside, always supervised them or have one family member supervise your puppy. You never know what your puppy will. Puppies often will eat anything they can put into their mouth whether trash, plants, shoes, or piece of fabric. Final Thoughts The only bottom line, if you have encountered your golden retriever puppy diarrhea at night, never take it lightly and wait for a day to treat them. Instead, act quickly as possible. Attend to their needs such as giving them basic relief or treatment just to ease the bowel irregularities. Because as we have learned, diarrhea can be devious. They can be mild infection to a severe condition such as cancer or a tumor in the intestine. Check the petmd for more infos about pet ailments. Lethargy Poor appetite Gums that are pale or tacky to the touch, which can indicate dehydration, anemia or shock Watery poop that lasts for more than a day Deciding Whether To Go to the Veterinarian A puppy with diarrhea almost always warrants a call to your veterinarian. At the very least, this will get you individualized guidance on what home therapies you can try and what doses to give your pup. Puppies metabolize many medications differently than mature dogs, so dosage adjustments may be necessary. When a puppy has loose stool, talking to a veterinarian can also help you determine whether a trip to the hospital is needed. Treatments that are often needed in more severe cases of acute diarrhea include: Fluid therapy to treat dehydration— given under the skin or intravenously Medications to slow down the bowels and reduce diarrhea and fluid loss Medications to manage vomiting Antibiotics to treat or prevent a bacterial infection arising from within the gut Hospitalization and close monitoring for extremely sick puppies Your veterinarian can also run tests to determine why your pup has diarrhea—a fecal examination for parasites or a test for parvovirus, for example. Scoop up some diarrhea and seal it tightly in a plastic bag or container. If you see a parasite or incriminating evidence like a chewed piece of plastic, make sure you bring that too. Puppies, especially those really young and really small, can dehydrate quickly. Make sure your puppy has access to fresh water at all times. Bring it to them if necessary. Entice a reluctant drinker by adding some low-sodium bouillon to the water or a few drops of liquid from some tuna canned in water. Pediatric hydration fluids for human babies work well, too, if your pup will drink them. Stick to bland food. This might be boiled, unseasoned hamburger or white meat chicken with some rice or a prescription diet for intestinal problems that you can get from your veterinarian. Check with your veterinarian to see if you can give any supplements or over-the-counter medications like canned pumpkin, kaolin-pectin or probiotics. A: The reasons why your puppy has diarrhea could include a change in diet, eating something unusual, exposure to toxins, viral or bacterial infections, food allergies or intolerances, intestinal parasites, stress, and other potentially serious health problems. Q: What to give dogs for diarrhea? A: Pet parents have to be careful in what they give for dog diarrhea—some over-the-counter treatments are dangerous if used incorrectly or in the wrong situations. If the diarrhea is mild and not associated with a serious health problem, it may respond to a bland diet boiled white meat chicken and rice, for example and extra water intake. Your veterinarian can let you know whether it is safe to give your puppy canned pumpkin, kaolin-pectin, probiotics and other supplements or medications. Q: How long does puppy diarrhea last? A: Puppy diarrhea can last for just a few hours, or it may persist for days or even longer. Always talk to your veterinarian if puppy diarrhea lasts for more than a day or two or if it is associated with vomiting, lethargy, weakness or any other symptoms of disease. Q: Does puppy teething cause diarrhea? A: Many pet parents report that puppy teething seems to be associated with diarrhea. However, diarrhea during this time can still be serious enough to require veterinary care. Teething puppies will often chew on and swallow almost anything they can get their mouths on. Also, the immune systems of young puppies who are teething are not yet fully formed, so they are at higher risk for the bacterial and viral infections that can cause diarrhea. Q: Is blood in my puppy's diarrhea an emergency? Call your veterinarian immediately for advice. Q: Why does my puppy have diarrhea after changing food? Whenever possible, make dietary changes over the course of a week or two. If you suspect your pet is sick, please call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your regular veterinarian when possible as they can make the best recommendations for your pet. If you need help finding a vet near you, use this link. Fever Vomiting These symptoms might not always mean diarrhea, so taking your pup to the vet is crucial if you notice anything unusual. Take note of these details as well as anything else that stands out. This information will assist them in making an accurate diagnosis and developing a treatment plan to make their furry friend feel better as soon as possible. How To Treat Diarrhea In Golden Retrievers Remember, while occasional diarrhea might not be a cause for alarm, chronic or severe symptoms should always be taken seriously. Check for any signs of blood or mucus. Observe if your dog shows other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite. Dietary Adjustments: Offer a bland diet: boiled chicken without skin or bones and plain white rice can be beneficial. Gradually reintroduce their regular food after days, mixing it with the bland diet and increasing the regular food portion over a few days. Maintain Hydration: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. You can also provide an electrolyte solution designed for dogs to help replenish lost fluids. Avoid Giving Human Medications: Many human drugs, like certain anti-diarrheals, can be toxic to dogs. Always consult a vet before administering any medication. Check for Parasites: Worm infestations can cause diarrhea. Regular deworming is essential, but if diarrhea persists, have a fecal exam done. Consult Your Veterinarian: If the diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours, if your dog seems lethargic, or if there are other worrying symptoms, reach out to your vet. A microscopic fecal evaluation, x-rays, blood tests, DNA tests, biopsies of the intestinal tract, endoscopy, ultrasound, or even exploratory abdominal surgery may be performed They can provide appropriate medications, suggest further dietary adjustments, or conduct tests to determine the cause. Prevention: Ensure a balanced diet and avoid sudden changes in food. Regularly check for and treat parasites. Keep your dog away from garbage, spoiled food, and other potential stomach irritants. If one food affects your furry companion less than the other, you could try a diet with only one protein source. Sudden Dietary Changes: Like humans, our furry friends can get stomach upsets and diarrhea when their diet changes abruptly. Infections: Diarrhea in dogs can be a sign of viral, parasitic, fungal, or bacterial infections. The most common cause is a parasitic infection from roundworms, coccidia or giardia which can be treated easily with medication. Viral infections include parvovirus, coronavirus, and distemper which are much less common if the puppy is vaccinated. Most conditions will necessitate veterinary treatment, so if your dog has diarrhea and other painful symptoms, consult your veterinarian. Stress: Dogs, like humans, can experience stress, resulting in diarrhea. So, if you notice your pet has an upset stomach and suspect it is due to stress, try to figure out what is causing their stress and work to reduce or eliminate it. Finally, remember to lavish your pup with love and attention to help your furry friend feel safe and secure. Undiagnosed Medical Condition: Tummy problems in dogs can occur due to an undiagnosed medical condition. These conditions include inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, and even cancer. If you suspect your pet has an undiagnosed medical condition causing their diarrhea, immediately take them to the vet. Remember, the sooner you get a diagnosis, the better the outcome and the happier your pet will be! Here are some options: Boiled Chicken and Rice: Cook boneless, skinless chicken and plain white rice. The chicken should be well-cooked and shredded, while the rice should be thoroughly cooked and soft. This combination is gentle on the stomach and helps firm up stools. Plain Pumpkin: Canned or cooked plain pumpkin not pumpkin pie filling can be beneficial for soothing an upset stomach and firming up loose stools. Start with a small amount and gradually increase as tolerated. Plain Yogurt: Choose plain, unsweetened yogurt with live and active cultures. It can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the digestive system. Boiled Potatoes: Boiled and mashed potatoes without any added seasoning or butter can be easily digested and provide energy. Remember to offer small, frequent meals to avoid overwhelming the digestive system. If the diarrhea persists or worsens, consult your veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and further guidance. These are some examples: Vomiting: If your dog is vomiting in addition to diarrhea, this could be a sign of a larger problem that necessitates a trip to the vet. Lethargy: If your dog is weak and tired, especially when combined with diarrhea, something is wrong, and a vet visit is required. This could be due to parasites, ulcers, or masses that require treatment from a veterinarian. Black tarry diarrhea: If your dog has black tarry diarrhea, it could be an upper GI bleed that requires medication from your veterinarian. Consult your veterinarian if you notice anything unusual with your Golden Retriever. Potential Complications Of Untreated Diarrhea In Golden Retriever Puppies If your golden retriever puppy has untreated diarrhea, you should take them to the vet immediately because there could be complications. These are some examples: Dehydration Diarrheic puppies can quickly become dehydrated, leading to serious health issues. Dehydration symptoms include dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and a loss of skin elasticity. Therefore, even if your puppy has diarrhea, it must continue to receive proper nutrition and hydration. One method is to prevent diarrhea from occurring in the first place. This includes their crate, bed, toys, food and water bowls, etc. Good hygiene practices can help to keep harmful bacteria and viruses that cause diarrhea at bay. Sudden changes can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. Regular Deworming Deworming your puppy regularly can help prevent parasitic infections that cause diarrhea. Consult your veterinarian about the best deworming schedule for your puppy. Maintain a consistent feeding schedule and avoid giving too many treats. Following these guidelines can help your Golden Retriever puppy avoid diarrhea and keep them healthy and happy. Diarrhea in dogs can last anywhere from a single day to several weeks or even months. Can diarrhea in Golden Retriever puppies lead to more severe health problems? If untreated, diarrhea in Golden Retriever puppies can lead to more severe health problems. In addition, dehydration, malnutrition, and other complications can result from prolonged or severe diarrhea. While some common home remedies may help treat mild cases of diarrhea in Golden Retriever puppies , it is critical to consult a veterinarian before attempting any treatments. A diet of boiled chicken and rice and probiotics are some remedies that may be suggested. More severe cases of diarrhea, on the other hand, may necessitate medical intervention, and it is best to seek the advice of a professional. Is diarrhea a sign of parvovirus? Diarrhea, especially if bloody, can be a symptom of parvovirus. Is it normal for puppies to have soft stools? Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Please remember this information does not replace proper vet care. You may not be able to totally prevent diarrhea, but knowing as much as possible about it might help limit the number times your dog has one of these unpleasant episodes and reduce the duration when the runs do come. The Canine Digestive System There are significant differences between the way dogs and people digest food. Human jaw shape and salivary enzymes, for example, will start breaking down a morsel in the mouth. Dogs, on the other hand, have mouths and jaws made for tearing, crushing, and wolfing food down. Their salivary enzymes are mostly designed to kill bacteria, which is why they can tolerate items that would send their human companions to the hospital. Food travels rapidly down the canine esophagus and enters the stomach in chunks, where most digestion takes place. Canine stomach acids are about three times stronger than those of humans, so they can digest food that is pretty much intact. Under normal circumstances, transit time from mouth through the small and large intestines should be under 10 hours, producing a firm, well-formed stool at the end. Dirty Dozen—Top 12 Causes of Doggie Diarrhea Many things can disrupt this well-balanced system, causing diarrhea or, less frequently, constipation. Some things, like eating too much grass, are not serious at all. Others can be a sign of a life-threatening problem, such as an indigestible object like a rock lodged in the stomach, or a disease like cancer. There are many reasons why a dog may develop loose stools, but most cases may be attributed to one of these 12 triggers: Dietary indiscretion: Eating too much, eating garbage, or spoiled food. Food intolerance Parasites: Most of these will cause illness in puppies or in adults with weak immune systems: Roundworms. Read the full disclosure here. Nearly every breed of dog out there suffers diarrhea at some point, but Labrador and golden retrievers are among the most vulnerable. Not many pet owners know about the symptoms and causes of diarrhea in goldens, as most of them are quite subtle and easy to ignore. But if your dog suffers from this disorder at some point, you will have to first find out the root cause before attempting to treat them. Now, if you truly care about your furry pal, this is the information you will want to have at your fingertips. Diarrhea In Dogs: Definition Like with most animals, diarrhea in dogs generally takes the form of loose or unformed stools. Sometimes this could happen in large amounts and so often. Treatment and healing time depends on the cause. If the illness causing the diarrhea is life-threatening, your dog will need advanced treatment and more time to heal. For more minor health conditions, treatment is often simple and quick—in fact, sometimes even home remedies work. The most important thing you should do in either situation is to begin treatment early. This will save your furry pal from suffering from severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and many other conditions that could worsen the situation. Like I touched on earlier, both labrador and golden retrievers are uniquely prone to diarrhea. A popular culprit is their almost uncontrollable appetite. Ingesting these kinds of foods and objects will usually lead to diarrhea. Expect the same when your dog swims in still waters by the roadside or a shallow stream. Such waters are full of bacteria, and so when your dog drinks some of it, diarrhea becomes inevitable. While this is usually the main culprit of diarrhea in golden retrievers, there are still plenty of other causes. Causes Of Diarrhea: Food Sensitivities Golden retrievers are one of many breeds that are especially prone to allergies. And guess what tops the list of allergens? Beef and chicken! If your dog is allergic to one or both of these foods, you will want to avoid them if your dog seems to have recurrent diarrhea. Causes Of Diarrhea: Diet Changes This is not just limited to humans; dogs too suffer stomach upsets and sudden diarrhea when you suddenly change their diet, say from a high protein to a fat-rich diet. Instead, gradually introduce new foods to their diet in small amounts. Causes Of Diarrhea: Infections Infections in dogs are mostly caused by viruses, with the most common ones being parvovirus , coronavirus, and distemper. Infections could also be parasitic, fungal, or bacterial. In most cases, they develop into diarrhea, alongside other unpleasant and often painful conditions. Most types of infections will need to be treated with medications prescribed by a veterinarian. Causes Of Diarrhea: Toxins Various foods and other substances are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Most have been linked with diarrhea in dogs, particularly those found in human foods and drugs. Some of the most common are: Chocolate, Sometimes puppy diarrhea in Golden Retrievers as with any breed can be acute and serious. However, often puppy diarrhea is little more than an inconvenience to the family and is easily treated at home. Loose stools sabotage house-training efforts at best. At worst, they can be a symptom of a life-threatening illness such as Parvo or Distemper. Diarrhea is a common reason for vet visits in all breeds. Golden Retriever puppies are no exception. Serious Puppy Diarrhea For serious cases of diarrhea, you need to consult a vet. If your puppy is vomiting or acting lethargic or sick, you need to get him to a vet. Likewise, if your puppy has a fever over .Puppies can dehydrate fairly quickly with severe cases of diarrhea. Make sure your puppy stays hydrated. Serious cases of diarrhea can be dangerous and are beyond the scope of this article. However, if your puppy is acting normally other than having loose stools or diarrhea, then this article might be a help. Common Causes Easily Treated With Medicine Giardia, coccidia, and worms are fairly common causes of diarrhea that are easily treated with medicine. Many young puppies raised in kennel settings struggle with these problems. All breeders even those raising very few puppies in a home setting will occasionally experience one of these conditions. Puppies can also contract these conditions after getting into new homes. Your veterinarian can test for these problems with a simple fecal exam. Reoccurring Puppy Diarrhea Recurring diarrhea in puppies is a very common problem. This works because antibiotics will take care of any excess bacteria in the digestive tract and the specialty foods have a lot of fiber. There are good solutions without sacrificing good nutrition for most of these problems. If treated correctly to begin with, these problems should not become chronic. There are three major causes of diarrhea that we will be discussing. Over-feeding, a lack of adequate fiber in the diet, and overgrowths of bacteria in the digestive tract can all cause recurring puppy diarrhea if not handled correctly. However, we argue that there does not need to be such an extreme change of diet as some vets recommend. Overfeeding Most dogs and especially puppies will get loose stools when they are over-fed. Usually, stools caused by overeating look like cow patties. When we have a female nursing a large litter of puppies, we intentionally feed them far more than they are accustomed to in order to keep weight on them. All of them will have cow patty type poop while we are heavily feeding them. Their poop returns to normal when the feeding returns to normal. Even adults struggle to maintain normal poop when they are overfed. Overfeeding puppies will have an even stronger impact. We have had families with our puppies call us reporting that their puppy has begun having chronically loose poop. The first questions we ask are about what the poop looks like and the weight of the puppy. If the puppy is over the weight ranges in our growth chart , the puppy is having loose cow patty looking poop, and the puppy is acting normally in other ways, the culprit is almost certainly too much food. There are too many breeds to keep up with normal weights for all breeds at all ages. Check with a reputable breeder who knows your breed to determine normal growth rates. Also, consider that various lines within breeds can grow at different rates. Another very important fact to keep in mind is that unlike people, dogs will grow too fast before they will grow fat. Dogs especially puppies do not always look fat when they are being overfed. In fact, unless they are grossly overfed, they usually appear normal to the untrained eye until they are an adult. Sensitive stomach foods ARE easier on the digestive tract, but this is a case where these foods are not necessary. See Our Page on How Much to Feed Once a family with a puppy who is growing too fast cuts back on the food, the poop will return to normal. Also see our page on and How Much to Feed your Golden Retriever Puppy for more information on how puppies should be growing. It is often difficult to ascertain if a puppy is growing too fast without having good breed information. Always consider the possibility of over-feeding if your puppy begins to consistently put out poop that looks like cow patties. Sometime close to a year of age most Golden Retrievers have a significant decrease in caloric needs as growth slows down. For some dogs, this slow down comes earlier. Not Enough Fiber A second very common cause of frequent loose poop and diarrhea is an inadequate amount of fiber in the dog food. Many puppies cannot tolerate rich foods especially grain-free foods until they are older and have more mature digestive systems. Many puppies and dogs need SOME grain in their food in order to maintain firm poop for life. Give about two tablespoons for a pound Golden Retriever. Puppies and 5 Star High Protein Dog Foods In our early years of breeding, we were committed to feeding the very best puppy foods to our puppies. We still have the same commitment. However, we have learned quite a bit about which foods actually are the very best. Anyway, for several years, we started our puppies on several of the most expensive foods on the market. Then, we used Acana before they changed their formula and moved their facility out of Canada. With almost every litter, there was at least one puppy that struggled with loose stools. To combat the stools, we added fiber either rice or pumpkin and the problem resolved. We decided to try a food with a little grain. We were pleasantly surprised that our puppies did much better on foods with some grain. Higher levels of meat protein are healthy for dogs. Dogs were created to eat meat. The higher the protein, the more loose poop you will see. However, higher amounts of meat protein also make a food more nutritious. You must feed the right balance of protein and fiber. When we started feeding TLC to our puppies, we had virtually no loose stools except for the very occasional bacterial overgrowth that is discussed in the next section. See our page on How to Choose a Dog Food for information on how to choose a food that has adequate fiber without sacrificing on good nutrition. If changing foods, make sure you scroll down to read the section on how to change foods. Having firm poop is important. However, it is even more important that you not sacrifice on good nutrition. They are very similar. There are only two differences between the puppy food and the adult food. The first difference is that the puppy food has a little bit more protein and a little less grain. The second difference is that the adult food has glucosamine. For the purposes of controlling loose stools, the additional grain in the dog food is all that matters. These foods fix the loose poop because they are low in protein and high in fiber. These veterinary diets are fortified with the necessary vitamins because most of the primary ingredients have little intrinsic nutritional value of their own. Sensitive stomach foods can be a good temporary fix, but there is no reason to leave most puppies or dogs on such a food for life. Look for a food with SOME grain for the long term. However, it is highly unlikely that it is necessary to keep your dog on an extremely high fiber, low protein specialty diet for life. Dogs that are fed the same food on a daily basis will probably not have the correct kind of good bacteria in their gut to properly digest a brand new food. They need to be acclimated to the new food gradually over a few days instead of having an abrupt change. Adding probiotics will also make the food change go smoother and quicker if need be. Take it slow. Bacterial Overgrowth A third common cause of puppy diarrhea is bacterial overgrowth. All puppies and dogs have bacteria in their digestive track to some degree. A good immune system will keep these bacteria under control. However, bacteria will tend to overgrow in puppies and even in dogs in at least three different common conditions: when a dog is under stress, when he is habitually eating junk, or when he has a poor or immature immune system. Unfortunately, puppies often meet all three conditions, especially when first changing homes. Stress A very common cause of bacterial overgrowth is stress. Some of our dogs have had this type diarrhea occasionally when they first start going to dog shows. However, once we return home, the diarrhea goes away on its own and the more shows dogs go to the less likely they are to experience the accompanying diarrhea. It is also common for some puppies to experience diarrhea when first changing homes. Our socialization program at Summer Brook is so intensive that we have very few that experience diarrhea shortly after leaving us. However, if you have a puppy who started having diarrhea right after getting in your home, it very well could be that stress is causing an overgrowth of bacteria. Weakened or Immature Immune System The second cause of bacterial overgrowth is a weakened or immature immune system. Dogs who have been over-vaccinated or neutered early or fed a poor diet will be more likely to have weak immune systems. In addition, it takes time for young puppies to develop strong immune systems. However, with good care from a human family, immune systems will gradually get stronger. See our pages on Puppy Care for more information on how to build a strong immune system. Along with all the junk that puppies sometimes eat, there is going to be bacteria. As puppies get older, their immune system will take care of it and the gut bacteria will stay in check. You might also need to occasionally give your puppy a MILD antibiotic. However, we do not let diarrhea go on for more than a couple of days. Tylan If after two days, diarrhea is continuing, we like to use Tylan for bacterial overgrowth in puppies. If given early before diarrhea gets out of control, Tylan will get the bacteria back under control after the first dose. There is no need to continue giving the Tylan after the problem is resolved unlike with other antibiotics for other problems. You need to merely give your puppy a little help in controlling the bacteria. You can give it twice a day if necessary. Most veterinarians recommend Metronidazole Metro for short for these types of issues. However, we think that Metro is an overkill and is stronger than necessary. Tylan used to be sold over the counter until around or .It is a very safe antibiotics that is even prescribed for long periods of time for chronic problems. We are definitely not advocating long-term use of Tylan, but are merely pointing out its safety. Tylan has also been used to stop tear staining in small breeds with white coats. If it can safely be used over long periods of time without side effects for many dogs, I feel much more comfortable using it for occasional loose stools than I do in using Metro. Metro works, but so does Tylan. Probiotics Whenever giving antibiotics to dogs or to people for that matter , give a probiotic along with the antibiotic. The good bacteria in a healthy digestive tract is necessary for the proper digestion of the food. It is actually best to give the probiotic a few hours after giving the antibiotic. However, giving them together is better than not at all. We use and recommend Natures Farmacy Digestive Enhancer. Final Thoughts I am not a veterinarian, so please consult your own vet. Tylan works. Adequate amounts of fiber works. Permanent use of high fiber, low protein diets is seldom necessary. If treated before problems get bad, strong antibiotics will rarely be needed either. Primary Sidebar Breeders and Trainers of English Golden Retrievers We focus on breeding and training beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies with health tested champion parents, great pedigrees, and fantastic temperaments.
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bull terrier boxer mix puppies - We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Have you always wanted a Labrador retriever, but are you worried about the common health problems of the breed? Someone might have recommended that you go for a Pit Bull-Lab mix. Labrador retrievers and American pit bull terriers began to be deliberately interbred in the s as a way of minimizing the health problems that are common to both pure breeds. The result is usually a gorgeous, medium-sized pup with the strength and loyalty of a pit bull and the intelligence and affection of a Labrador. But wait, you might be wondering if these dogs are highly aggressive, since pit bulls do have a reputation for being a pretty aggressive dog. While exactly what you get with a mix-breed pup is always unpredictable, the aggressive reputation of the pit bull is undeserved. They are, in fact, intelligent and affectionate canines. A word of warning, while pit bull-Lab mixes are highly affectionate and highly trainable, they are not generally recommended for first-time dog owners since there is quite a bit of work involved in looking after these special dogs. But whatever you call them, they are a mix between a Labrador retriever and an American pit bull terrier. Labrador retrievers are medium-large gun dogs that were initially bred to retrieve game. But over the years, they have also become incredibly popular family dogs. They are also highly intelligent, trainable, and friendly, so they are also often used as disability assistance dogs, for example working as guide dogs for the blind. American pit bull terriers are solidly built medium-sized dogs. In the early 19th century, they were often used in blood sports such as bull and bear-baiting, and after these sports were outlawed in , they were also often used in dogfighting. This is why the breed has a reputation for being aggressive, but they are not naturally aggressive when properly cared for. They are, in fact, strong, confident, and lively, and make excellent family pets as they love children and are protective of them. Pit Bull-Labrador Mix Characteristics Unlike with pure-bred dogs, which tend to have a fairly predictable appearance and temperament, you can never be sure exactly how the characteristics of parents will combine in a mix-breed dog. But it is possible to generalize about the most likely characteristics of a pit bull-Lab mix based on the characteristics that appear most often, and characteristics that breeders will often try and control to produce the best possible pups. Labrador-Pit Bull Mix Appearance Most pups that are a mix between a Labrador retriever and a pit bull can be characterized as medium in size. They usually range from between 17 to 25 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 45 to 90 pounds. Male Lab-pit bull mixes tend to be significantly larger than their female counterparts. They will almost certainly have a strong and muscular physique. Labradors are fairly strong to start with, and this is only enhanced by the extreme muscular nature of the American pit bull terrier. Their facial features generally fall between those of a Lab and a pit bull, and they will have a broader forehead than a Labrador retriever, but it will be narrower than that of a pit bull. They usually have a relatively long muzzle and long pointed ears. Your pitador might also come out with the classic Labrador retriever double coat that sheds a lot. Breeders will often try and control for this characteristic, but there are no guarantees. There is no way of knowing what kind of coat they will have when you adopt a puppy. Coat colors vary from classic Labrador colors including black, chocolate, and golden yellow, but you can also expect to see white, spotted, brindle, and cream. Lab-Pit Bull Mix Temperament When you adopt a Labrabull, you can expect a dog that is affectionate, intelligent, and energetic, as these are characteristics of both Labrador retrievers and American pit bull terriers. Lab-pit bull mixes are very affectionate and bond quickly with new families. They are incredibly friendly with children and will be both careful and protective of them. While you can trust a pit bull-Lab mix with children, small children should never be left alone with any dog unsupervised. While they do get on with other animals, this breed does have a need to be dominant. They may engage in behaviors you consider aggressive or undesirable to assert their dominance over other dogs or household animals. They crave to be included in everything the family does and to be the center of attention. These dogs are very intelligent and also eager to please, which makes them highly trainable. They are just as capable of being trained as working dogs as their Labrador retriever parent. They are motivated by praise and reward, and training should always utilize positive reinforcement. When your dog is frustrated and confused by what you want from them, that is when they can become aggressive. But pit bull-Lab dogs are not naturally aggressive; they actually have a calm and fun-loving temperament. But they are also high energy and need a lot of exercise. They are highly alert and will bark a little to let you know if guests arrive at the door or strangers are lurking near the house. Lab-Pit Bull Mix Health These crossbreed dogs generally live for years and within that time are likely to have fewer health problems than either purebred Labrador retrievers or American pit bull terriers. Nevertheless, they can be inclined to develop some of the joint conditions that are common in Labrador retrievers, such as hip dysplasia. They can benefit from glucosamine supplements to help keep their joints supple and healthy. You can find our recommendations for the best glucosamine supplements here. These dogs are also more inclined to developing epilepsy and hyperthyroidism than some other dog breeds. You should monitor your dog for seizures to identify the onset of epilepsy. You can read more about seizures in dogs here. Finally, dogs that are a mix of Labrador retrievers and pit bulls can be inclined to develop skin conditions and allergies. For this reason, it is important to choose a good pH-balanced shampoo for your dog, and try to keep their food and environment free of toxins that can trigger or exacerbate allergies. These might help you to decide whether they are the right breed of dog for you. Exercise Lab-pit bull retrievers are energetic dogs that need lots of space to play. They need a yard to give them space to run and play throughout the day. They need a lot of exercise each day. They need at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise, such as running or playing catch, each day. On top of this, they will need hours of moderate exercise such as walking and playing. This exercise is best when split into at least two exercise sessions each day. It is advisable to keep your pit bull-Lab mix on the leash when in public parks as they have a high prey drive. Attention These dogs thrive on love and attention, and since they are so intelligent, they also need a lot of mental stimulation. This means that it is not appropriate to leave them alone for long periods of time. If you leave one of these dogs alone for ten hours a day while everyone is at work, you will come home to a lot of destruction and a frustrated dog that may become aggressive in their need for your affection. Grooming Most Lab-pit bull mixes have the short-haired, low-shedding coat of a pit bull, which only needs brushing once a week. But if they turn out to have the high-shedding coat of a retriever, you may find that you need to brush them every day to keep on top of their shedding. You will also want a powerful vacuum cleaner that is designed to pick up dog hair. You also need to pay a lot of attention to dental care, as Lab-pit bull mixes are prone to tartar build-up and gum disease. Diet Since these dogs are highly muscular and full of energy, they thrive on a diet that is high in animal-based proteins and high in healthy fats. You do need to be careful how much food you give them, as they will usually eat even when they feel full, and they are prone to put on weight when they overeat. So, feed them a diet that is low in carbohydrates and put food out at regular times rather than leaving food in their bowl for them to graze throughout the day. Since these dogs are prone to allergies, it is important to invest in high-quality food that does not contain any artificial additives that can be toxic for dogs. It is also a good idea to vary their diet, and ensure they are not eating the same type of meat every day. Dogs are most likely to develop allergies to the foods they eat the most. So, if you feed your dog the same chicken-based dog food every day, it is likely that over time they might develop an allergy to chicken. Varying the protein that makes up their diet can help prevent this. Where To Adopt There are many reputable breeders out there breeding top-quality pit bull-Labrador retriever mixes. Generally speaking, you will find that the Labrador is the mother, as they are a slightly larger breed, and it is safer for the dog when the mother is a bit larger than the father. So, if possible, look to adopt rather than buy. A great place to start looking for adoptable dogs is at Petfinder. We found our Australian Shepherd Labrador Retriever mix through petfinder. FAQs Is a pit bull-Lab mix an aggressive dog? No, pit bull-Lab mix dogs are not aggressive. They can have a reputation for aggression because pit bulls have traditionally been used in blood sports, but the breed is not naturally aggressive. They can be dominant among other animals and may engage in classic alphamale behavior to assert their position in the animal hierarchy. When do Lab-pit bull mixes stop growing? Lab-pit bull mix dogs will usually keep growing until they are about three years old, which is around the same time as they start to lose their puppy energy. You can expect them to grow between 17 and 25 inches tall and to weigh between 45 and 90 pounds. Are pit bull-Lab mixes a good dog breed for families with kids? Yes, Lab-pit bull mixes are excellent kids. They are gentle and playful and will also be highly protective of their young charges. While they will give you a bark to let you know that strangers are around, they are actually very good with strangers as well. Can you have a pit bull-Lab mix with another dog? Pit bull-Lab mixes are highly dominant animals, so they will try and assert their dominance over any other animals you have in the house. For this reason, they need to be well-socialized from a young age to ensure they learn appropriate behavior. So, while you can introduce a Lab-pit bull mix puppy into a home that already has a dog, you might want to be wary about introducing an adult dog into a household that already has another dog. Do pit bull-Lab mix dogs bark a lot? No, these highly intelligent dogs are not the type to bark continuously or for no reason. They might give you a bark to let you know when something has happened or if someone is approaching. When do Labrador-pit bull mix dogs calm down? From about the age of one year, these dogs begin to calm down and have less energy. The Verdict Labrador retriever-American pit bull terrier mixes make excellent pets for anyone with an active lifestyle and lots of space for these dogs to stretch their legs. They combine the intelligent and friendly temperament of both breeds in an adorable dog that is less likely to suffer from some of the serious medical conditions that are common in both pure breeds. They are also highly trainable and have a calm and friendly temperament as long as they are getting the physical stimulation and the attention that they need. You will need to be prepared to make the time commitment to keep these dogs healthy and happy. Do you have any experience raising a Lab-pit bull mix pup? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. 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. Loyal and easy to train, the Pitbull Lab mix will make an excellent addition to any family and provide great companionship. History Of The Pitbull Lab Mix Both the Pitbull and the Labrador Retriever are historically working dogs , so it comes as no surprise that the Pitbull Lab mix likes to keep themselves busy and entertained. They were originally bred to combine the most desirable characteristics from both parent breeds into one dog — the temperament of the Labrador and the loyalty of the Pitbull. Breed Origin The breed origin of the Pitbull Lab mix is actually unknown and we cannot be sure when these dogs first appeared. However, we can look at the history of both parent breeds so you get an idea of where these pups originated from. The Pitbull parent in the Pitbull Lab mix can actually be any of four types of Pitbull. The Pitbull was created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull and bear baiting. They were thought of as aggressive fighting dogs but it was also known that they were very gentle with humans and made excellent family dogs. Later, these Pitbulls accompanied immigrants to America and they began new careers as all-around farm dogs. Their jobs included hunting wild game, guarding the property from animal intruders and providing companionship. The Labrador, as we mentioned above, is the most popular breed of dog in America. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs in the s and used to accompany hunters and retrieve animals that had been shot. They were also used in Newfoundland to retrieve fish that came in off the trawl, which is why they love the water. Their loyal and loving nature mean that they quickly became a very popular family dog and are still used today as working dogs, such as guide dogs. Characteristics Of The Pitbull Lab Mix Because the Pitbull Lab Mix is not a purebred breed and it is not recognized by any kennel clubs, this means that there is no definite breed standard for these pups. This means we cannot be sure how each litter of puppies is going to turn out. However, we can guess based on previous litters. These dogs are normally born in litter sizes of 5 to 10 puppies, with the average being 7. It is not normally an issue which parent is the sire or the dam when breeding. Appearance As we have said above, you can never be sure what your Pitbull Lab crossbreed will look like. They may look more like their Pitbull parent or more like their Labrador Retriever parent. The Pitbull Lab Mix is classed as a medium to large breed dog, and they can weigh anywhere up to 80 lbs, with females generally being smaller than males. These dogs will likely have floppy ears and will be muscular yet lean in statue. Coat A Labrador Pitbull Mix will generally have a short, smooth coat and they will not require too much grooming. We will go into more detail about grooming later on. Color The parent breeds of the Pitbull Lab Mix dog can vary greatly in color, which means your designer dog will likely vary greatly too. A Labrador can be yellow, brown or black and a Pitbull can be a huge range of colors — especially because there are four different breeds of this dog! If you want a good indication as to what your Pitbull Lab may look like color wise, you should take a look at the parent breeds. Temperament The Pitbull Lab Mix is a friendly and sociable dog that loves to be around people. This is particularly true for the Pitbull in them, who can become feisty when bored or not stimulated. Therefore, they will do well when they are around a lot of people and are being given lots of attention! This could not be further from the truth. When raised properly and socialized well, these dogs are sweet-natured and loving — traits which are passed down to the Pit Lab Mix. They are not known to bark and will alert you when there is anything wrong, making them a great guard dog or watch dog. The intelligence level of this mixed breed dog means they are easily trainable and will be top of the class at puppy school. They will also happily learn tricks and engage with their owners! Lifespan The Lab Pit Mix has a relatively long life expectancy and can live, on average, anywhere between 10 and 14 years. These are normally the same health issues that their parent breeds are predisposed to. However, there are two health problems that are seen more frequently, both of which are seen in Labradors. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any issues to offspring. Daily Life While the different traits and characteristics that your Pitbull Lab Mix may inherit from their parent breeds can be somewhat of a mystery, fortunately taking care of these dogs is pretty straight forward. Below we discuss their food and diet, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. As an adult, this should be anywhere between 1, to 2, calories a day, which equates to four cups of kibble a day. You should always check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount you should be feeding them of a particular food based on their weight. When they reach maturity, this should be reduced to 2. As an adult, you should try to feed them three times a day. Always remember to feed your Pitbull Lab Mix nutritious, high-quality dog food. We have included a food that we recommend below. This food is formulated with protein-rich chicken as the first ingredient, ensuring your doggie gets all the nutrients they need to keep their muscles healthy and strong. Designed specially for large dog breeds, this food contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and overall mobility of bigger dogs. There are also antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to support immune system health, life stage requirements and a healthy oxidative balance. Exercise A Pitbull Labrador crossbreed is a medium to large breed of dog and therefore has high exercise needs. A dog of this size should be exercising for around minutes a day, so you must make sure you have the time to dedicate to this breed before buying. When the Pitbull cross is a puppy, you should remember the 5 minute rule. Therefore, if your pup is four months old, you should only be exercising them for around 20 minutes. These pups will love to join you on a hike or a run or, like their Labrador parent, they also love to swim. Because of their intelligence, they can also learn different dog sports such as flyball or agility, so this is something to think about. Check locally to see whether your area has any restrictions. You may need to keep your dog on the leash or have them wear a muzzle. Loving and friendly, these pups thrive when they are around people and like to be right in the middle of everything, getting all the attention! They do not do well when left alone and can exhibit destructive behaviors and signs of separation anxiety. Therefore, you must make sure you are not going to be out for hours at a time if you are thinking about bringing one of these dogs into your home. These dogs need to be kept entertained and stimulated mentally, which is why they can be such a good playmate for children. They also get on well with other family pets, so there is no need to worry about their reaction to other dogs and cats. The Pitbull Lab Mix is a very intelligent dog, which means training them is very easy. Training and Socializing We have mentioned above that the Pitbull Labrador crossbreed is a very intelligent dog. This means that training them is easy and is one of the reasons they are recommended as a good first dog. These pups respond best to positive reinforcement training. This includes verbal praise and reward-based training such as treats. Socializing your Pitbull Lab cross is also not difficult. They get on well with children and other animals, so there should be no issue within the family home. You should start socializing them from a young age and introduce them to new sights, sounds, places, smells, people and animals when you are out and about. Grooming Fortunately, your Lab Pitbull Mix will not require a lot grooming. You will need to brush them roughly two to three times a week to ensure that shedding stays at a minimum. Unfortunately, as they have a Labrador parent, they will shed a lot! You will need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner if you want to keep your home fur-free. Bathing your Pitbull Lab is also important, but this can be done as infrequently as times a year. You should also check their ears regularly to spot any signs of infection, and ensure their nails are clipped as needed. We touched on this above but the answer is no. There is a common misconception that all Pitbulls are dangerous, but when trained properly and brought up in a loving and caring environment, Pitbulls are affectionate, loyal dogs and love to be around people. Are Pitbulls illegal? In some areas of the United States, Australia and the UK, Pitbulls and other related dog breeds are under breed-specific laws. These laws prevent residents in those areas from owning these dogs, except from under special circumstances. Pitbulls in these areas are seen as a danger because of their reputation and dog fighting background, even though there is a huge amount of evidence to show that when trained properly Pitbulls make great pets. How much does a Pitbull Lab Mix cost? If this is out of your price range, you can always check your local shelter to see if there is a pup there that needs a loving home! Summary The Pitbull Labrador Mix breed was created to cherrypick the best traits from each parent breed — the temperament of the Labrador and the loyalty of the Pitbull. These loving, friendly dogs make excellent family pups who just love to be around people, both adults and children, and other animals too. While the Pitbull has a reputation for being aggressive, this could not be further from the truth and, when put in the right home, the Pitbull Labrador Mix is a companion for life. What do you think, is one of these dogs right for you? Other Pitbull Related Guides. .You will never know if your puppy is going to look more like a Lab or a Pit in the future. Pit Lab Mixes are black, brown, tan, white, and yellow. Some Pit Lab Mixes are solid in color, while others have distinctive white marks just like a Pitbull. Originally, all Labradors were black. When a litter is influenced by the predominant features of the Black Lab, it is very likely for you to have a litter of jet black Lab Pitbull pups. A majority of Lab Pitbulls are actually black in color with distinctive white marks on the face, on the chest, at the tips of the paws and tail. Its spectrum of rich brown hues can be passed onto its offsprings. Brown Lab Pitbulls usually have markings, too. Labradors with orange hues to their coats are also classified by the American Kennel Club as a yellow Labrador. Pitbull Lab Mix Looks Generally speaking, Pitbull Lab Mixes have the following features: a broad head a pair of almond-shaped eyes small droopy ears a long tail a smooth, dense coat But as with any crossbreed, there is no way you can accurately guess how your puppy is going to turn out. You will just have to wait until he is fully grown. A Pitbull Lab can grow to a height between 30 cm. As always, this breed sits in the grey area between the Pitbull and the Labrador even in size. Their weight also depends on how much Labrador or Pitbull genes they have in them. Pitbull Labs in general, weigh around 45 lbs. However, a Pitbull Lab with dominant Pitbull genes can weigh up to 95 lbs. Pitbull Lab Mix Character Traits We all know that the Labrador Retriever has a playful, friendly spirit while the Pitbull has a bold, courageous demeanor. So, what could be the personality of a Pitbull Lab mix? Read on to find out! Pitbull Lab Mixes are family oriented and will protect their humans at all costs. These courageous canines will stand up to any threat! Pitbull Lab Mixes are highly protective of their pack, which is often displayed as an aggressive behavior. When given proper training, the Pitbull Lab mix can easily distinguish between threat and unusual stimuli, so he can exercise restraint. The Pitbull Lab mix is usually quiet, which makes them the ideal pet for apartment living or for close-knit subdivisions. Likewise, Pitbull Lab Mixes are great watch dogs as they always keep their eyes peeled. They can sense danger from afar, be it a wanted criminal or a teenager who is up to no good. A big softie Another remarkable trait that Labrabulls have is their ability to connect with their owners. They can sense if you are sad, troubled, or in pain. These dogs will snuggle next to you and give you wet licks — the canine equivalent of hugs and kisses. So, the next time you are about to cry, you can count on your tail-wagger to comfort you during hard times. This is certainly a trait that they have inherited from Labradors. After all, Labradors are notably known as therapy dogs. A goofball Pitbull Lab Mixes are ever-ready to face any danger that represents itself. But these fearless dogs also melt easily into a jiggly pile of face-licking love around their beloved humans. Pitbull Lab Mixes love to run fast, tug hard, jump high, play games and solve doggie problems like the smart and creative creature that he is. Clingy Although the Pitbull Lab mix is a big softie, this breed does have a tendency to develop a neurotic behavior if left alone for long periods. Encourage him to be a little more independent by allowing him to explore the world a little further away from you. Docile Pitbull Lab Mixes are notable for their obedient demeanor towards their owners. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Be sure to establish yourself as the Alpha of the pack, especially when your Pitbull Lab Mix is still a pup. Lab Pit Mix Temperament A majority of dog owners are not yet convinced with the Lab Pit Mix temperament, which mainly harks back to the reputation of its parent breed, the Pitbull. So, why are these dogs depicted in a bad light? But truth be told, the tiny Chihuahua is actually more threatening than the hulking Pitbull. James Serpell, a renowned professor from the University of Pennsylvania, conducted a series of tests to determine which canines are the most aggressive. Furthermore, the American Temperament Test Society performed a study in to evaluate the temperament of the controversial breed. According to the results, the American Pitbull Terrier has a temperament passing rate of .In other words, many canines that share Pitbull-like characteristics are quickly categorized as a Pitbull Terrier. Likewise, the CDC stated that there is no scientific proof that shows Pitbulls are more involved in fatal attacks compared to other breeds. But of course, any dog that was cultivated for aggression can terrorize a whole neighborhood. This applies to all dogs, not just for Pitbulls. Therefore, an angry Pitbull is not the closest thing you will encounter next to a Great White Shark. While its parent breed has proven itself a true fighter, a Pitbull can only be aggressive if the dog was bred for the wrong reasons. Undesirable traits are rooted in improper training and lack of socialization, regardless of which breed you have. This means a Labrador, which is easygoing and gentle by nature, can get into a bevy of troubles if he has no concept of right and wrong. Unfortunately, the Pitbull Terrier remains a cult favorite among irresponsible owners. Therefore, it is imperative that you take the time to ensure your canine buddy gets properly trained and socialized. Despite their undeserved reputation, a Pitbull or a Pitbull Lab mix can respond well when training is done the right way, especially when you shower your pets with tender loving care! Are Lab Pitbull Mixes Sociable? Dogs are social creatures and are happiest when in contact with others, so yes, that includes the Pitbull Lab mix. But just like any other dog, your Lab Pit Mix must learn social skills at a tender age to keep fighting at a minimum. Socializing allows your tiny pup to get used to various settings and be comfortable towards meeting new people and animals. Keep in mind that Lab Pit Mix sometimes love to play a little rough. However, this should not be mistaken as a high prey drive. As a fur-parent, you also have to be well-balanced as the dog you seek. If you have a grumpy canine with a killer glint in the eye and a growl to match, step back and consider whether you are teaching your dog the right lessons. If not, get professional help! Establish yourself as the Alpha First of all, you have to firmly establish yourself as the leader of the pack. It means you have to set boundaries, stick with your own rules, and avoid doing things out on a whim! Otherwise, your growing pooch would think you are weak and inconsistent. A successful relationship depends upon you being in control. If your little Pitador does what he wants in small, harmless ways, it is likely for him to do what he wants in big, annoying ways. Nevertheless, be sure to be fair and calm when correcting your furry sidekick. Pitadors are among the most obedient dogs but they can also be very sensitive. Employ positive reinforcement Pitadors care about praise… and yummy treats! So, be sure to hand out some tasty dog biscuits to your pup for his little accomplishments. You can also alternate it with praises and belly rubs. Positive reinforcement is absolutely crucial, especially during the first weeks of potty training. When your Pitador goes potty outside instead of your hardwood floor, make a fuss and reward him. Considering how the Pitbull Lab mix is extremely intelligent, your pup is quick to understand which of his actions are good and desirable to you. Thus, he will repeat the behavior as often as possible. Correct your dog the right way Punishment is often associated with physical harm, such as hitting your dog with a stick. This method is not only harsh but also counterproductive. So, how do you correct your canine lout without making him anxious or wary of you? Since it is no good trying to reason with your dog, the most efficient and humane way to teach him is through constructive punishment. You can confiscate his favorite toys or simply ignore your dog for a certain period of time. Physical punishment only hampers the relationship between you and your beloved pet. Explore new grounds Take your furry sidekick as many places as you can go. You can stuff him in a pet carrier while he is still a puppy and have him walk beside you when he is finally bulky. Having your little Pitador tag along with you provides him with a spectrum of experiences with various people, animals, and objects. This is the best way to shape his behavior towards boisterous children, unusual structures, and fast-moving vehicles among many others. The more exposure he has as a puppy, the calmer he becomes as an adult. Provide mental and physical stimulation Both parent breeds of the Pitbull Lab mix requires tons of mental and physical exercise, so it is quite unsurprising for their offspring to have the same demands. Regular exercise is paramount if you want to keep your furry sidekick fighting fit. Otherwise, your Pitador is bound to carry extra weight that can have a huge impact on his overall wellbeing. Dogs are rarely lazy but if the exercise is boring, dogs are as likely as humans to refuse to do it. However, simply letting your dog chase squirrels out in the backyard is not going to cut it. So, what are your options? Walk your dog Walking your canine buddy is the most commonly performed exercise. Ideally, active dogs such as the Pitbull Lab mix should be taken out for a long walk twice daily. To make this a viable solution for busy fur-parents, choose to walk around the neighborhood a couple of times or go to a park that has a decent distance from your home. Try to change the route of your walks from time to time, so your Pitador has a new battery of smells to get excited over. You can always count on the treadmill if it rains cats and dogs! It gives your dog the workout he requires in a playful manner, while you just sit and relax. It would be wise to come equipped with a nifty device, such as a toughened tennis ball with a long-handled launcher that sends the ball flying into the far distance. Dog Frisbees also fly long distances to be retrieved by your pet. Go out for a swim A lot of dogs are afraid of the water but once they get the hang of it, they will paddle like a wild duck! Swimming is also one of the most enjoyable activities you can do with your dog. There is a plethora of toys from pet stores, such as a Kong floating toy to encourage your furry pal to swim. Your fun-loving Pitador will surely jump right in and retrieve the object for you. Find out what reward motivates your canine buddy and include some of that reward for him in your exercise regime to encourage him to be more active. Even racing up the stairs with your dog can be a fun and effective exercise, as well. The simplest forms of exercise can deliver amazing results. In fact, running up and down the stairs is the quickest way for obese dogs to lose weight! They will chow down anything delicious, whether it is the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best large breed dry dog food! So, it is up to you to provide your canine buddy the balanced diet he needs to stay hale and hearty. Go for the best dry dog food and keep them away from the nutrient-deprived worst dry dog food. His choices are:. Pitbull Lab mix puppies, breeders or adoption? The Pitbull Lab Mix can be a great pet for the right home. In this article we will look at how well suited the Labrabull is to your family, and give you tips for finding the perfect puppy. We will also give you the information you need to properly feed, care for and groom your dog. And explore their behavior traits and training, exercise and socialization requirements. This guide is packed with information and will help you decide whether an adult Lab Pitbull mix will suit your home and lifestyle. Pitbull Lab Mix Origins? Labradors and Pitbulls have been being bred together informally for years, for pet homes and as ranch dogs. But in recent years with the rise of the designer first generation dog mixes, then are gaining more of a following. Labs are one of the most popular breeds in the US. Their ancestors originated in Canada and they were bred there in the 18th century to aid fisherman who needed a trusted and reliable helper dog. On the flip side, this hard-working, rough and tough canine also has a sweet personality. Today Labs are best described as loyal, intelligent, friendly and eager-to-please. Labs can co-exist with various age groups as well as with a cross-section of other animals. They take to training easily and make Labs a popular choice as police dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs. The Pitbull originated from crossing Bulldogs with Terriers back in the s. Breeds used for fighting, bullbaiting a ratting. Despite their lurid beginnings, the Pitbull is actually an affectionate breed with a fierce loyalty to their owners. Once brought over from the UK to America, Pitbulls were commonly used as farm dogs to protect livestock and herd sheep. They were known for their docile temperament with people and children and were not just working dogs but family pets. Pitbulls are strong, athletic, and courageous dogs, but underneath it all, they are often big softies looking for the same love and attention as any pet. They have expressive eyes, pointed ears and a long fairly straight tail. In other words, given his parentage, your pup can be counted on to be one of the most handsome dogs zipping around the dog park! How Big is the Pitbull Lab mix? The Labrador Pitbull mix is a medium to large, powerful, dog that can reach up to two feet in height and weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds when fully grown. The fur is smooth and shiny, and not difficult to maintain. You can expect the common coat colors to be a solid tan, black, white, yellow, or brown. However, the Pitbull Lab Mix can also come with various colors like the Pitbull; so a brindle is entirely possible! Pitbulls tend to shed on the low to average end of the spectrum. However, a Lab Pitbull Mix could well take after their Labrador parent in the molting department and be more of a heavy shedding dog. Either way they are not a hypoallergenic dog and are not recommended for allergy sufferers. They can also need quite a lot of grooming in the shedding season, despite their short coat. Pitbull Lab Mix Grooming A Pitlab has a silky, short, and dense coat that benefits from brushing to keep it shiny. The Labrador undercoat is not common in this particular mix breed. Due to being a high shedding dog Labs need a good grooming tool for the heavier shedding parts of the year. A weekly brush the rest of the time should be fine. Use a doggie toothbrush and toothpaste to keep his pearly whites clean. And at the same time check for any signs of infection. The Pitbull Lab Mix grooming needs range from low to moderate. The latter was bred in the 19th century to be used in physically punishing ways, such as dogfighting. In America, this tenacious and strong dog was bred with larger canines and was used as a farm dog, who was also called upon to aid in hunting large game. Today, the American Pitbull Terrier retains an alert and protective nature. He is known for his courage, determination, and loyalty, but also comes with a reputation for being a naturally aggressive breed. This is not entirely unfounded. And according to one source on dog bites, in there were 22 Pitbull dog bite fatalities in the US. For the same year, Labradors and their mixes were responsible for 3 deaths. The Pitbull is a banned breed in some countries including the United Kingdom. In regard to this particular mix breed, one source reports that between and , 46 Pitbull Lab Mix attacks had been recorded. Are Pitbull Mixes Aggressive? However, a lot of people believe that this loyal dog has been maligned. Counter-arguments regarding the dangerousness of this breed highlight the fact that until the mids, the Pitbull was not a feared dog. And was actually considered a friendly family pet. This argument identifies the change in attitude as a social construct and media bias rather than any actual increase of aggression in this breed. The unreliability of victim and witness memory and accuracy of identifying dog breeds correctly has also become an area of interest in the Pitbull debate. Some believe that attacking breed is often misidentified when victims report dog bites. It is important to note that it is only the American Pitbull Terrier under scrutiny. Temperaments of other Pitbull breeds, like the American Staffordshire Terrier, have never been called into question. However, we would add a note of caution here. There are plenty of sources now that argue that Pitbulls are less likely to bite than previously thought. Bite Type and Frequency The Pitbull Lab mix is not much more likely to bite than many other popular breeds. However when weighing this up it is important to bear in mind the possible consequences of a bite, should one happen. While no dog bite is pleasant, the American Pitbull has been bred with the physical structure needed to bite hard. With big canine teeth and strong jaws. It holds on. The damage done by their bite has the potential therefore to be far greater than that of a typical dog bite. This is especially relevant in families with small children. This trait could be passed to your Pitbull Lab mix. They will likely be an energetic and loyal dog that loves attention from their owner. If there is more Pitbull temperament in them, your dog will be more reserved and docile. Thorough socialisation will be essential for this pup. If they inherit more Labrador personality they will probably be very social and exuberant. With socialization and good breeding practices, you can have a reasonable expectation that they will get along well with children and possibly other dogs. And will make a good family pet. When it comes to other pets, the Labrador side of your Pitbull Lab Mix has a better chance of getting along with them than the Pitbull does. You should take caution with strangers and other dogs until you know how your animal typically reacts in such situations. Although a pup with a very friendly Pitbull parent, that is well socialized, could be a very friendly and cuddly companion indeed. It is advised to start training young, as early as 8 to 12 weeks old. The longer you wait the more strong-minded your dog will become. With consistent and positive reinforcement training methods, they can be a terrific and well-mannered companion. It should be noted that punishment based training is not recommended as a modern training method and it has the potential to mask problems and cause or exacerbate aggression. Therefore access to things like a yard for self-exercise, fetch with the owner, and space and time to run around is important. Owners should be aware of health issues discussed below such as Hip and Elbow Dysplasia and Exercise Induced Collapse EIC and adjust exercise routines for their dog in consult with a vet. Larger dogs generally have greater issues with hip and elbow dysplasia, and both parent breeds are prone to hip dysplasia. In addition, gastric bloat and hypothyroidism may be potential issues for your pup. You should inquire with your breeder about heart, eye, skin, and ear issues. Purchasing your puppy from a reputable breeder decreases the chances of owning a dog with unexpected, surprising health problems. You should test both parents for health conditions that commonly affect their breed. Like any breed, they have some minor health issues to be aware of, like skin problems and allergies. The Pitbull Lab cross has a similar life expectancy to that of the parent breeds. Labradors are one of the most popular family dogs. They have a friendly and affectionate nature. On the other hand, Pitbulls have had mixed reviews in this department. You probably associate Pitbulls with dog fighting and aggression. Historically, though, they are known for being loyal family dogs that are good with children. This mixed-breed would make a good family pet if bred and socialized properly like any other dog. When visiting a litter, be sure to observe the temperament of the Pitbull parent and socialize your pup early to help increase the chances of a friendly, gentle companion. Unlike Labs, Pitbulls do not get on well with other animals so your pup will do best as the only furry child. Another option would be to get a purebred Lab or another kind of mix. Rescuing a PitLab All too often designer dogs end up relinquished by owners who were ultimately unable to care for their needs. Not all mixed breeds have their own specific rescue. However, breed rescues for the purebred parents often take in related mixes as well. Pitbull Lab Mix Puppies With the increasing popularity of mixed-breed puppies, it is important to find a responsible breeder that follows the recommended guidelines for all health testing. Make sure they provide a clean and loving environment for their dogs. Working with a good breeder is the best way to increase your chances of a healthy and happy Pitlab Mix Puppy. Pet stores and puppy mills have a reputation for producing unhealthy puppies, sometimes with more challenging temperaments. Unethical breeding practices and poor treatment of the parent breeds, especially with the Pitbull parent, will not produce the desirable traits you are hoping for in your new Pitbull Lab Mix Puppy. Labrador Pitbull Mix Breeders It goes without saying, but you should only deal with an ethical, reputable breeder that can ensure your Labrabull was crossbred from parents free of medical issues. A good breeder is happy to provide evidence of clean health checks and to answer all of your questions about the Bullador. Plus, your breeder should be asking you questions to make sure you are equipped to handle this large, energetic breed. If you buy from a breeder, ask about the temperaments of your Pitlab parents. You can also ask to see the bloodlines of both of the parents for any clues. And If possible, ask to see the parent so that you can observe their temperament for yourself. Any sign of aggression in the parents is a red flag. Unfortunately, unethical breeding practices go hand in hand with the increase in demand for designer dog breeds. Do your research and ensure you are choosing a responsible breeder that can provide you with a healthy and happy pup.