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Conclusion 1. This family-owned breeder has been in business for over three years now. While they are relatively new in the industry, they have received many positive reviews. The Australian Labradoodle puppies in mixed colors look curious to the surroundings. The breeder has a acre field where they raise their pups in a family-friendly environment. Dogs have a huge playing field in Daffodil Hill Australian Labradoodles. In fact, they indicate that their pups live in their home and are a part of their daily lives. Daffodil Hill Australian Labradoodles are pretty responsive as they love interacting with their pet parents. The breeder offers lifetime assistance to new pet parents to help them adopt their new furry friends successfully. Labradoodles from this breeder undergo basic training to ensure puppies have the required skills before moving to their forever homes. The breeder offers a 2-week board and train program to new pet owners. This is part of their adoption process to help puppies and pet parents get along on the right foot. Contact Details:. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Columbus Indiana and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Indiana? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Indiana. Soft, Cuddly, Cute Australian Labradoodles are famous for being cute, but just wait until you see our puppies! Extremely Intelligent Aussie Labradoodles mix the smarts of the Poodle with the trainability of breeds such as the Labrador Retriever, combining to create one super-smart puppy. The Uptown Family Bringing home one of our Labradoodles automatically makes you a part of our family. Perfect Family Pet Adaptable and laid-back, Australian Labradoodles can fit right in with almost any family—from those with lots of kids and pets, to solo globetrotters, to retirees looking for a quiet companion. Labradoodles just love people, no doubt about it. Highest Indiana Labradoodle Breeder Standards We enforce strict standards to keep both our parent Doodles and puppies in tip-top shape. That means making sure our mommy dogs live in awesome guardian homes, that our pups enjoy the best conditions possible, and that we have breeding age and litter limits for our mommy dogs. We do that by focusing on the traits that make Labradoodles so awesome, while attempting to minimize and eliminate genetic diseases.

Email: [email protected] 5. Their breeding program aims to produce purebred dogs of good conformation, excellent health, and sweet temperaments that conform to the Pug breed standard. In addition to that, every breeding dog and puppy is fully health tested for genetic health issues, and comes with a written genetic health guarantee. In order to find out more information, you need to visit their website and fill out the email form to contact the breeders. However, you can expect to pay more for a pedigree Pug of show champion bloodlines. Of course, you should always keep in mind that buying a new Pug puppy is only half the battle. You should factor in additional expenses such as vet visits, food, toys, accessories, training, etc. In Conclusion Pugs are some of the sweetest dogs out there, and they are known to be perfectly suited for families with small children due to their gentle nature. When Pugs are mixed with other dog breeds like the German Shepherd or the Siberian Husky , their pups usually inherit the best qualities of both parents, so you get the best of both worlds. Buying a puppy from a reputable breeder who makes sure to perform breed-specific genetic health tests to ensure excellent health eliminates ninety-nine percent of the chances that your pup will develop a health issue down the line. Although this is true as a rule of thumb, there are always exceptions to every rule. These dog breeds are prone to suffering from breathing problems such as Obstructive Airway Syndrome, heart problems due to a lack of oxygen, eye problems, and neurological problems due to their compressed skull shape. We wish you luck in your endeavor to find the perfect new Pug that will be a part of your family and bring you lots of laughter and joy for years to come. Related Articles:. Now, I have to decide which Pug puppy to bring home. I'm so nervous that I'll choose the wrong dog. How can I possibly know I am choosing a Pug puppy that is the best one for me? They're all going to be so cute! Answer: Hi Ashley. We agree that all of the puppies are going to be adorable and cute! However, there are definitely some guidelines that you can follow when you are trying to pick out the perfect Pug pup. We are not sure if it matters to you if you have a male or female. There are not that many differences, despite what others may say. While potential health problems may not be visible, there are 3 things that everyone should do: Check the eyes, breathing and gait. The Eyes: The eyes are not only the window to the soul, they can also give you a clue about the health of the dog. Watering, squinting or a glazed film on the eyes is a sign of health issues. Breathing: Hold the puppy close to your ear and listen carefully. Do you hear rattling and rasping? This is a sign of a breathing problem. Does the puppy have to breath through his or her mouth? If the puppy is at rest, they should be able to breath fine with their mouth closed this can be a stenotic nare issue, which often needs to be corrected with a surgical procedure. Watch the puppy walk: While young pups under the age of 6 weeks may still be gaining their footing, take note of any limping or odd gait issues. If you do notice an odd gait, listen for any clicking noises coming from the hip area. This sort of issue may be caused by underdeveloped hip bones joint and socket , a health problem not uncommon with the Pug breed. Interaction and Activity Some people will tell you that you should pick the puppy that comes right over to you first. This is not the best advice. Puppies that are very bold like that may be harder to train. Their enthusiasm may be great fun for a while, but keeping up with and trying to train such a puppy may turn out to be stressful. When you are choosing a Pug puppy, it is usually best to choose one who is quiet and calm. However, you most certainly need to make sure that the pug is not too quite due to an illness or extreme shyness. You don't want to bring home an ill pup and choosing a dog that is overly shy may make for a pet that is afraid of everything and will be in need of extensive of socialization training. It is recommended to have a close look at several puppies that stay in the background. If a Pug puppy is laying listless without any energy at all, this is a warning sign that the dog may be unhealthy. A calm Pug that does respond to you when picked up is what you should be looking for. Listen to the breathing for any signs of labored breathing or rasps. If the breathing is clear, take a look at the eyes. They should be bright and clear without an excessive discharge. With 2 or 3 puppies now left for you to decide on, take a look at how each one responds to you and how they respond to each other. Wiggle a toy in front of a puppy or whistle to him or her and see if the pup shows natural curiosity. The one for you should come over to you to investigate. Allow the whole litter to play with a toy. Take notice of the ones that seem to be bossy and the ones that seem to play fair. Take note of the ones who cower in the corner if the others fight for the toys. You will want to choose a Pug puppy who falls somewhere in the middle. This will ensure you have one that has a calm, yet curious personality. Finally, when you have it narrowed down to 2, do not feel rushed. Take time to sit down with each and talk to them. Does the pup look at you when you talk? Does he or she keep their tail high or wag the tail to express happiness? At this point, you should get a good feeling about which puppy is the one that is meant for you. Please remember, that just because you have an appointment to pick up a dog does not mean that you must go home with one. If the litter seems ill, all of the dogs seem aggressive or you do not feel a bond with any of the puppies it is absolutely acceptable to relay this to the breeder. While you may be very disappointed at first, in the long run you will be happy that you waited. When you are holding the Pug puppy that is right for you, you will know it. And what a lucky guy or girl that will be! Ready to begin his or her new journey as part of your family! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Eyes checked by an eye specialist for Entropion, Distichiasis double eyelashes and Pigmentary Keratitis Heart testing for heart murmurs Whilst health testing is ideal, tests need to be breed appropriate and have a tangible outcome. May-Hegglin Anomaly was found in only one dog, a Pug or Pug cross. Dogs in the susceptible group may never develop the condition. A flowchart for diagnosis was developed as part of research that led to the susceptibility test. What is a well-bred Pug like? Contrary to belief, when a Pug breathing can be heard, this does not always indicate health issues. Some of her Pugs have competed in Obedience. I think Pugs are only limited by what their owners are willing to do with them. Health is not something considered highly in unregulated breeding. The only way for these colours to be there is through cross breeding at some point. Along with the colours will come genetics for diseases not previously found in Pugs. Follow the Dogs Australia three Rs ; Right time — Is it the right time now to get a puppy for your family? Right breed — Have you researched all you need to know about your breed from its natural instincts to grooming? Right Breeder — Is your breeder responsible, operating under a code of ethics, with regulations and health checks? From getting a dog to keeping them happy we will have you covered at dogsaustralia. It champions the highest standard of animal welfare through education and fostering dog-loving communities. Keep Updated Want to stay across the latest news? Sign up here and we will add you to our mailing list.

Use baby steps and go slowly letting your GSD pup get used to their crate. Offer them meals Provide them a few meals either very near or inside their crate for a positive association with their new crate. When you leave As they spend more time inside their crate, work on leaving them alone for very short periods. Step 1: Introduce Your German Shepherd to Their New Crate Spend about 5 minutes, two to four times a day, introducing your dog to their special kennel. Familiarize your dog with the kennel by tossing a high-value food reward near the crate to entice them. Let them explore the kennel and go in and out freely on their own. A fun, squeaky toy tossed inside can sometimes help them explore their crate. Step 2: Feed Your German Shepherd Inside Their Crate When your dog has sniffed the crate and wandered in and out multiple times, offer them a meal inside with the door propped open. Offer several meals, in the same way, to show your dog a kennel is a safe place. After a few meals inside and when they are comfortable eating, begin to quietly and softly close the door. But let them out once their meal is over. Next time, leave them in the crate for a shorter period. This way you reward them for staying quiet, instead of whining. When they enter, toss them a treat as a reward. Close the door quietly and sit in the same room as them for 5 to 10 minutes. You can even sit calmly next to the crate while dropping food into it occasionally. Now, go to another room for a few minutes to leave them alone. Instead, sit in the same room again for a few minutes before releasing them. Increase the time you leave them alone in the room and repeat the previous step upon your return to them. Once you work your way to leaving them in their crate for about 30 minutes, begin leaving them in their crate while you leave your house. Step 4: Crating Your German Shepherd When You Leave the House Leave the house for a short time with them in the crate using the same process above to call them to the crate. Call your dog to their crate anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes before you want to go so they have time to settle in their crate and relax. Tell them to go into their crate, give them a reward, and offer them praise. Leave the house without a big commotion. When you return, quietly let them out of their crate. Their collar could get hung up on one of the bars and cause serious injury or worse! When you take the time to introduce the crate properly, they see it is a comfortable place that has their favorite toys and tasty foods! You must keep this slow. If at any time your dog whines, you have gone on too long! Praise puppy for relieving themselves. Offer fresh water and take them back outside again. Take your pup back outside to eliminate before crating. Let them outside to relieve themselves and stretch. Offer fresh water, cuddles, and another meal. They need to go outside after eating and drinking. Place your pup back in the crate. Play with them and take them for a walk. Supervise them by leashing them to you and watching them closely. Let them outside. Praise them for using the bathroom outside. Throw a ball or work on basic obedience. Return inside and leash them to you to supervise while playing, petting, or letting them rest next to you. Bring them in and let them explore while you watch them. Keep them leashed to you when indoors to avoid any accidents. Offer fresh water. Take up the water a couple of hours before bed. This is to prevent accidents in the crate overnight. Let them stretch their legs in the yard. This gets him too excited before bed. You want bedtime to be a calming ritual. You can make your own schedule based on the typical times a GSD puppy needs to go out. Be sure to watch for these times and set an alarm if you need a reminder. Pay attention to these times and let your dog out: When they first wake up. After their first meal of the day. Before you go to work. Most people start crate training their pet when the dog is a puppy, as it is also a very effective potty training tool. Being able to spend time in a cozy, comfortable crate also provides your pet with a peaceful retreat when they want some rest and relaxation time away from the hustle and bustle of family life. The idea of crate training your dog is to provide a comfy, secure space where your pet feels safe and likes to spend time , especially when left alone while you go to work, pop out to the store, or run errands. So, why is crate training such an essential part of raising a German Shepherd , and what are the benefits of crate training? Potty Training Crate training your dog makes the potty training process much easier and quicker. Obedience Training Crate training is a handy tool for obedience training as long as you start crate training your pup from a young age. I found crate training my shelter rescue dog challenging because she was a year old and had never been crated before. That said, we worked hard together, and eventually, she was confident and happy to use her crate voluntarily when I sent her into it. Crate training can help to build mutual trust between you and your furry friend, which is crucial for obedience training. Protection German Shepherds are often thought of as confident dogs that work with law enforcement and as guard dogs. However, these dogs are people-oriented and can sometimes feel insecure when left alone. Safe Transport Most dogs love to go with their owners on day trips and to the park, which usually means riding in your car. For safety reasons, you should always travel with your puppy or adult dog safely restrained in a crate. Not all dogs appreciate car travel and can get car sick. Destruction Prevention Puppies of all breeds can be destructive when you take your eye off them for a moment! Rather than using a blanket your pup could drag into the crate and potentially choke on, we recommend buying a proper, machine-washable crate cover. Step 1: Choose a Crate The best crates for crate-training puppies are high-quality wire mesh crates with divider panels. Ensure you buy the correct size for your puppy. In addition, a crate divider means you can buy a large crate size for your puppy to grow into without having to upsize to a new crate several times as your pet matures. Step 2: Introducing Your Pup to His Crate Before you begin your German Shepherd crate training program, set up your new crate in a room where your puppy will spend lots of time, for example, in your bedroom or living room. Make the crate super comfy by adding a mat, some cozy bedding, and a couple of chew toys. Your puppy should be allowed to go in and out of the crate voluntarily. Your aim at this stage is to encourage your puppy to feel secure and confident approaching the crate and going inside. Using treats and toys will show your puppy that the crate is a fun, positive place where he wants to spend time. Step 3: Feed Your Pet in the Crate Once your German Shepherd puppy happily goes in and out of the crate by himself, start feeding him inside the crate. Puppies reluctant to enter the crate are usually tempted by food, especially greedy breeds such as Goldendoodles and Labradoodles. Start by putting a small bowl of food your pup will eat in ten minutes or so in the crate. As your pet gets more confident and content to eat in the crate, build up the amount of food you give him so that your puppy spends more time eating his meal. Step 4: Begin Closing the Crate Door Now that your puppy is content to eat his meals inside his crate, start shutting the door for short periods, minutes at first. Gradually feed your puppy in the crate with the door closed for extended periods. During this time, try giving your pup a chew stick or a Kong toy stuffed with treats or peanut butter to keep him occupied. At this point, you want your puppy to feel comfortable inside his crate with the door shut. Step 5: Slowly Build Up Crate Confinement Time Now that your puppy is happy to spend short periods in the crate with the door shut, you can begin increasing the length of time he spends in there. If your puppy is happy with that, increase the periods of time he spends inside the crate. Remember to give your puppy plenty of toilet breaks and exercise between confinement periods. Dogs of all breeds do best when they have a routine and understand what to expect and when. Day 2: Continue with Step 1, moving to Step 2 if your puppy is ready. Day 3: Complete Step 2 and move on to Step 3. Day 4: Finish Step 3 and begin Step 4. Day 5: Finish Step 4 and move on to the final Step 5. Throughout the crate training process, be sure to take your time without rushing your puppy. If you try to hurry things, your puppy could lose his confidence in the crate and in you! Tips for Successful Crate Training Finally, here are a couple of top crate training tips that have worked for us! Your dog should always have a positive association with his crate, such as treats and toys. Can You Leave an 8-week-old Puppy in a Crate? Never shut a puppy in a crate as a punishment or if he is not confident and happy to be left in his crate with the door shut. A: German Shepherd dogs are intelligent creatures that love to learn and work alongside their human owners. Although these dogs can be playful and willful, you can usually crate-train your dog within about a month or so. Keep your training methods consistent, and always use positive reinforcement training methods to guarantee a happy dog and a successful crate training program! Q: How long can I leave my dog in his crate? However, senior dogs and those with medical conditions might need more frequent potty breaks. Dogs and puppies can usually last longer overnight since their metabolism slows down. However, you must remember to take your pet for a potty break before settling down for the night. Q: Should I ignore my puppy crying when crate training? Puppies cry to get your attention and be let out of the crate. If you give your pet the attention and freedom he craves, you simply teach him that whinging and crying get him what he wants! Training pads can encourage your puppy to soil his crate, sending the little guy mixed messages and potentially setting back your potty training program. Final Thoughts Did you enjoy our guide to crate training a German Shepherd puppy? If you found the article helpful, please share it! German Shepherds are generally intelligent dogs that enjoy working alongside people and are highly trainable, so they generally take well to crate training. How long did it take for you to crate-train your German Shepherd puppy? Tell us in the comments box below. Meet our writer Wanda C Wanda has LOVED dogs ever since she was a child, and is currently a dog parent to a 3-year-old poodle who means the world to her. Leave a Comment. This is never acceptable. Unfortunately, this can make it somewhat challenging for owners and families with no one at home during the working day. My German Shepherd was never left for more than three hours in her crate during the day. She was crate trained as soon as we brought her home at eight weeks old, as recommended by her breeder. If you check out this fantastic video below from celebrity dog trainer Zak George on how to crate train a puppy, around halfway through the video, he confirms that you should never leave dogs for more than four hours in a crate and less for younger puppies. How to Crate Train a Puppy German Shepherds that have been crate trained love their crate and see it as somewhere comfortable where they can go to feel safe and secure. They see it as their special den where no one else is allowed and where they can either eat, rest, or play with their favorite chew toys. Plus, puppies need loads of attention, playtime, and socialization. The same goes for house-trained adult dogs, who should be allowed outside to pee at least times during the day. You must always exercise your German Shepherd and allow him to go to the toilet before leaving him in a crate for a few hours. You can always invest in a pet camera, such as a Furbo from Amazon, to keep an eye on them from time to time and make sure they are okay. You can get cheaper dog cameras, but I just love how these can toss treats out to your dog, which you control remotely from your smartphone! Extended periods longer than four hours can lead to various mental and physical health issues for your dog. Here are a few significant side effects of leaving a German Shepherd in a crate for longer than four hours a day: Restlessness during the evening is common when owners leave their dogs in a crate for too many hours each day. Pacing, whining, and excessive energy might occur when a German Shepherd is supposed to be tired or winding down for the night. Separation anxiety is an unfortunate issue that GSDs have to deal with sometimes. If they need to pee or poop while stuck in the crate for hours on end, they could develop rashes or infections. After all, would you? Joint issues such as hip or elbow dysplasia is a disease prevalent in older German Shepherds. If your adult dog is crated for hours and hours during the day, then he cannot stretch out and move around sufficiently. The lack of space and cramped conditions without exercise for hours can cause additional pain and discomfort due to your GSDs hip dysplasia. German Shepherds left in their cage for excessively long times can develop heart or other health conditions. Without enough exercise throughout the day, GSDs can become ill very quickly. Remember, they were initially bred as herding dogs and are still used as working dogs today due to their fitness, strength, and stamina. They should have open running space, and they need two periods of at least minutes of exercise per day, including mental stimulation and lots of playtimes. Never uses a crate as a way of punishment for your German Shepherd. It should be a happy place where they associate positive experiences. Regarding crate size, German Shepherds should have an extra-large one, no smaller than 48 inches. This allows for enough space for your dog to move around and stretch out without being too confined to a small area. You need a metal or wire crate, preferably a heavy-duty one that will be impossible to break as German Shepherds are strong dogs. Most metal crates will fold down, making them easily transportable, and you can opt for either a single or double door or both, depending on how you wish to position the crate. I like the Midwest Homes for Pets dog crate as it comes with the option of double doors, has a divider panel, and is easy to set up. You can read more about why I like this crate in this article, 8 Best Dog Crates for German Shepherds and Playpens Nonetheless, a crate on its own will not just turn into a safe haven for your dog and keep him entertained. It can be as big as the whole crate, or you could leave half of it uncovered for them to move around easier and leave some space for them to cool down on the tray if they get too warm. Either way, you need to make it cozy, and washable soft bedding is essential to allow them to lay down comfortably. One way of solving all these problems is to go for the Big Barker crate pad. Plenty of toys. Imagine being stuck in a small room for hours and hours with nothing to do. Providing them with various interesting chew and interactive toys, such as KONG toys , will prevent them from becoming bored. Food and water. Purchase clip-on bowls to prevent them from being tipped over. A blanket to cover the crate. Place a blanket or cover over the top of the crate. This makes the crate feel more like a den and can help your dog feel more secure, especially if he is clingy. As long as they have food, water, and shelter, such as a large dog house, they should be able to adapt fairly quickly. This can be done; however, it will require lots of training, patience, and a gradual transition. Get dog gates for your house. These gates allow you to decide how much space your puppy can have to move around in your house by sectioning off various off-limit areas. Purchase indoor or outdoor dog fences or playpens for your puppy. These products are perfect for young GSDs who need more room to move around. Some of these can even be connected to a crate to make a fantastic combination of a cozy resting space and room to roam. If you have a higher budget or need a playpen, look at the BestPet Dog Pen. Slowly train your German Shepherd to roam free throughout the house. This process will take some time, from puppyhood into adulthood. You can start by initially leaving the crate door open when you go out or gradually increasing the size of their gated area until it fits the size of a room. My GSD, Willow, was 12 months old before I started leaving her crate door open and two years old before she was allowed free reign of the house. However, it is important to gradually increase the time they spend outside the crate and to provide them with plenty of exercises and mental stimulation when they are out of the crate. It is also important to ensure that your German Shepherd has access to water and a comfortable place to rest when they are in the crate. It is also recommended to cover the crate with a blanket or sheet to create a den-like environment and provide your dog with a sense of security. Using a crate can be a helpful tool for managing separation anxiety in German Shepherds. However, it is important to introduce the crate gradually and make it a positive and comfortable space for your dog. You should also avoid leaving your dog in the crate for extended periods of time and provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation when they are out of the crate. When crate training your German Shepherd, always provide food, water, comfy bedding, and enough toys for them to enjoy and keep themselves entertained. My German Shepherd adored her crate. She loved to go and settle in her crate if she wanted to rest and needed some peace and quiet away from me! Related Posts You May Like:. But goodness, German Shepherd puppies can get into a lot of trouble! Crate training a German Shepherd puppy can help ease the stresses of puppyhood. Believe me, crate training is your best friend! Well, after your German Shepherd, of course. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about crate training a German Shepherd puppy. What is Crate Training? There are a lot of people who feel this way, and the truth is — it can be cruel if the crate is misused. To make this happen, your pup must think of its crate as a place where the good times roll! In other words, a puppy should associate its crate with only pleasant experiences. Now be prepared — this is a process with a lot of training involved, and it can be long and frustrating at times. What are the Benefits of Crate Training? There are so many great benefits to crate training a German Shepherd puppy. Let us count the ways… A way to feel secure: A crate makes your puppy feel safe and secure. Remember, dogs evolved from den animals so they like having a small, protected place of their own. A way to potty train: One of the toughest things about raising a puppy is potty training , and a crate is a great tool to help take the headache out of housetraining. When Allie was a puppy, she would wake me up with a whine in the middle of the night to let me know she needed to potty. With a little time and a lot of patience! A way to transport: Crates make travel much easier for both you and your German Shepherd! Riding in cars can be very stressful for your pup, but if your dog is comfortable being crated, it makes for a much easier ride. A way to protect your puppy: As a puppy, Allie would get into everything! She would eat or chew anything she could get her mouth on, and I worried about her eating something dangerous while I was out. Many dogs are injured or worse from chewing electrical wires or eating toxic substances so crate training is essential to keep your active German Shepherd puppy safe from harm. A way to protect your stuff: Did I mention that German Shepherd puppies love to chew!? This includes your furniture, shoes, and anything else you leave where your puppy can find it. If left loose in your house, your puppy will most likely search and destroy! A way to keep your sanity: Overall, crates offer you something priceless — peace of mind! Crate training saved me a lot of stress and energy while potty training Allie. Crate training means a happier you and a better relationship with your furry friend so you can have fun being a puppy parent! How Do I Choose a Crate? Dog crates come in different materials and sizes and can be purchased online or at your local pet store. There are a lot of options available! This section will help you make the best buying decision for you and your four-legged family member. Wire Crates Pros: Wire crates are well-ventilated, and the pan slides out so they are easy to clean. They are also collapsible for storing or moving, and you can purchase a divider for this type of crate. Larger sizes can also be heavy. Plastic Crates Pros: Plastic crates are good for travel. Because the sides are mostly solid, your puppy may feel more secure. Cons: Plastic crates are harder to get clean and less ventilated. Fabric Crates Pros: Fabric crates are very lightweight and great for travel. Cons: Fabric crates are not very durable and are easily destroyed by a mouthy puppy. If the crate is too big, your puppy will potty on one end and sleep on the other, defeating the purpose of using the crate for potty training. So what is the best size crate for a German Shepherd puppy? Go with a or inch metal crate with a divider — the divider is key! Use it to partition the crate, giving your GSD pup just enough room to stand up, lie down, and turn around. GSD puppies grow fast! So just move the divider back to give your pup more room as it grows. Check out my full guide to the best crates for German Shepherds if you want to learn more, but here are three of my top recommendations. There are several sizes available, and you can choose either a single or double door. I went with the inch size, and 8-year-old Chyna still fits inside perfectly. Very durable and sturdy but still folds easily. Plus, the price makes it a great value! Includes a fleece bed, which is removable and washable for easy cleaning. Very easy to set-up and fold-down, making it a great option for dogs on the go! Allie uses this one for long traveling long distances in the truck. Petmate offers several variations on this hard-sided plastic kennel, including several sizes to choose from. Easy to assemble and very sturdy, making it the safest crate for airline travel. If your dog gets overly anxious or nervous in new situations, this crate might be the best choice. Ok, new crate for your puppy — check! But what else do you need? Bedding When I first started crate training Allie, I bought a nice, fluffy bed for her to sleep on while in her crate — bad idea! For a puppy, I recommend buying something a bit more durable and a bit less fluffy. Toys Toys are great for a puppy learning to love its crate. It gives your pup something to do other than chew up the bedding and teaches it that crate time is fun! Just remember, eventually, your puppy will be left unsupervised in its crate for extended periods of time. So any toys you choose for its crate must be safe! Allie loved gnawing on her Kong while in her crate. Treats Speaking of treats, make sure to keep plenty of treats on hand to use as rewards. A crate cover will help your dog feel safe and keep it from being disturbed by its humans walking by. You can purchase a crate cover or even use a towel or bedsheet. Keep in mind, never cover all sides of the crate — your dog needs plenty of ventilation. As I mentioned before, the most important part of crate training is teaching your puppy to LOVE its crate! How do you do this? Use lots of treats, patience, and praise to show your dog that learning is fun. Put the crate in a room where your puppy spends a lot of time and prop the door open or remove the door altogether. You can add a crate mat and toy, but then back off and let the puppy investigate the crate casually — no pressure! Your puppy may explore immediately, going in and out of the crate to sniff around. But if not, you can encourage it with a few treats or toys near the front of the crate. Be patient until your puppy is bold enough to go all the way inside its crate without any nervousness. Use during mealtime Once your pup is comfortable with wandering in and out of its crate, pair mealtime with crate time. Adding a food reward reinforces those positive associations you want to build between your puppy and its crate. Start by regularly feeding your puppy next to the crate, then slowly work the food dish into the crate at the front, then further back. Close the crate Once your pup is happily chowing down while standing all the way inside the crate, start closing the door during mealtime — but just until dinner is over! Open the door again as soon as your pup is finished eating. Then, close the door. Stay near the crate for several minutes, then go into another room for a few minutes. When you return, sit near the crate again for a few more minutes before opening the door. Repeat this step until your puppy is comfortable in its crate for at least 30 minutes without you in sight. This may take several days or even weeks so be patient! Crating when you leave Now your puppy is ready to try crating while home alone for short periods of time at first. Make sure to give your puppy a potty break before crating for an extended period of time. Stick to your normal routine for crating — use a command to get your dog to enter the crate, praise your dog briefly, give them a treat, and then leave quietly. Keep it low-key when you return as well. Wait a few minutes before letting your puppy out of its crate and try to ignore any excited behavior. Crating overnight Before attempting an overnight stay in the crate, make sure your puppy is tired and ready for sleep. Lots of exercise and playtime before bed will help. Give your puppy a chance to potty immediately before bedtime. Again, use your normal routine for crating command, praise, treat. Once your puppy is happily snoozing through the night, you can move the crate wherever you prefer. Only keep puppy-safe items in the crate at night. A regular daily routine is important in training your puppy, and consistency is key! Puppies learn best through repetition so create a puppy crate training schedule and stick to it. Here is a super simple German Shepherd crate training schedule that you can easily modify to fit your needs. Image used with permission by copyright holder How long does it take to crate-train a German shepherd? With that being said, crate-training a dog usually takes longer than teaching him how to sit or stay. Recommended Videos As a general rule, puppies should be left in a crate for one hour per month of age, but they should never be kept in a crate for longer than four hours at a time. By the time your pup is six months old, he should be able to sleep in his crate overnight without having any accidents. Crate-training tips Whether you have a young puppy or an older dog, crate training requires time and patience. You may want to purchase a crate large enough to accommodate his adult size. Leave the crate open in a room where you spend plenty of time. Your pup may wander into the crate without being told to do so. Now you can try closing the door and leaving your pup in his crate. Image used with permission by copyright holder Are German shepherds hard to crate train? While crate training a German shepherd puppy may seem easier than training an adult dog, studies show that sometimes the reverse is true. In fact, many GSD owners will find that this is one of the easiest breeds to housetrain, as long as constant supervision and consistency are required. However, remember that all dogs learn at their own pace. Where should your German shepherd puppy sleep? According to the professionals, your German shepherd puppy should sleep indoors in a crate. Not only does crating your dog at night make housebreaking easier, but it also keeps your dog safe. Puppies, especially German shepherd puppies, explore the world with their noses, which can lead them to mischief. Image used with permission by copyright holder Crate training is one of the most controversial topics amongst dog owners, but research shows that crating your dog can help her feel safe and secure. With time and patience, your German shepherd will come to view her crate as her den , and she might even choose to spend time there on her own. Editors' Recommendations.

Finn the English bulldog has recently left the internet in hysterics after chaotically "dancing" in a newly viral video. The TikTok post, which was shared on April 14, showed the English bulldog "dancing" on a pet cam with his owner Natalee as she shimmied across her living room. He wiggles and dances every time," Finn's owner Natalee told Newsweek. Finn appears to be a keen dancer, having been featured showing off his best moves in a few other pet cam videos on the account. Finn's older sibling Bentley can be seen in the corner of the video looking completely unphased and unbothered by his excitable brother busting moves. A stock image of an English bulldog. The TikTok post captured Finn the English bulldog's best dance moves. Getty Images "Get you a dog that matches your energy," has been written comically across the video. They've amassed a huge following online, comprising over , followers on Instagram and , followers on TikTok. The social media accounts dedicated to both dogs are brimming with funny videos of the two and their daily antics. Natalee shared on Instagram that Bentley was born in , while Finn was born in .The age difference between the two could explain why Finn's always raring to go and Bentley's always keen to take a back seat. Tucker the English Bulldog at 2 years old on the boat with his life vest Tucker the English Bulldog at 2 years old "Sonny the white English Bulldog puppy at 9 weeks old and growing into those monster paws of his! George the English Bulldog on his one year old birthday George the English Bulldog on his one year old birthday George the English Bulldog on his one year old birthday Spicey MacHaggis the English Bulldog puppy at 13 weeks old Spicey MacHaggis the English Bulldog puppy at 13 weeks old Spicey MacHaggis the English Bulldog puppy at 13 weeks old Spicey MacHaggis the English Bulldog puppy at 13 weeks old Diesel the English Bulldog puppy at 8 weeks old Diesel the English Bulldog puppy at 13 weeks old Diesel the English Bulldog puppy at 13 weeks old, doing what Bulldogs do best Diesel, the English Bulldog puppy at 13 weeks old Gizmo the English Bulldog pup at 9 weeks old—"This is taken from one of our daily walks, as he enjoys putting stuff in his mouth, rather than doing his business. We found this stick and let him walk with that which helped. As you can see, he's mighty proud of his new stick.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Message sent. We have litters available now. We are located in Boise, Idaho. We are a family partnership raising highly socialized, health tested, in-home quality puppies. We are not a puppy mill. We raise only litters a year in Idaho. We partner with our parents in Pittsburgh, PA who breed litters a year to diversify our lines. We import our foundation lines from Europe, and partner with each other to produce the quality we are looking for. If you choose one of our local puppies, or our puppies in Pittsburgh, PA, we can usually in-cabin hand-deliver to you. Why Us Only a short few years ago, English Cream Golden Retrievers in America were rarely entrusted to breeders when European breeders thoroughly trained and mentored them. American Golden Retriever standards are still maintained in America, and that only by a handful of breeders truly breeding to the standard. Unfortuately, like the American Goldens, The English Cream Golden Retiever lines have recently fallen into the hands of breeders that are not even remotely interested in breeding to standard. Have you ever known someone that decided to breed their dog because they thought their dog was so great, that his lines needed to be passed on. Of course, that is no reason to breed a dog. There are many health tests, pedigree analytics and breed standards to meet. English Creams in recent years have been bred to small backyard gene pools or even regional gene pools that have produced weaker genetics, non-standard coat types, colors and temperaments not to the standard. We have put years of know-how, investment and careful consideration to make sure you get a breed-standard English Cream Golden Retriever. Our family works together as a team. We have a large family where everyone uses their talents in our family business. Dad is the glue that holds us all together. Mom keeps all the wheels running in the breeding business and the kids all use their specific talents, and have become experts at their "golden" puppy jobs over many years. Our Story We had a young family and had a dog bite happen to our then youngest son. After that happened, we found the English Golden Retrievers to be the perfect family dog. We absolutely love them and know that you will enjoy them as well. How to Reach Us We know that your puppy will be your family member for life. The greatest part of our job is the magical moments that you first get to hold your English Golden Retriever puppy. It often brings tears to everyone's eyes. If you are interested in one of the puppies, please reach out. We are diligent to follow up with every inquiry. We look forward to hearing from you. Here is a great article from our friends at Canine Weekly with some simple answers. May 28, Check Out Our Blogs! In fact, we have one dam our personal pet , and the first time we bred her was in .But that is great news for you! Our puppies are born and raised in our house. When they are not sleeping or eating, they are roaming our house or our back yard with a family member watching them of course! We want you to have the best puppy possible, so in addition to all the health screenings that we do prior to breeding, we try to train your puppy as much as possible, as early as possible. If you are interested, we are always happy to talk more about our dogs and our goals in breeding and raising great puppies. Contact us any time! About Us Simply the best! We love English Golden Retrievers and would like to see more healthy examples of this breed in homes for everyone to enjoy! Our Dogs Amicus Ami is our old man: the first English Golden Retriever we purchased and who made us fall in love with the breed. He is gentle, happy, always patient with a small child poking in his mouth or ears. He loves toys with squeakers, and always finds a way to get them out! More About Ami Zoe Zoe is our sweet mama dog, always wanting someone to love and look over. You will usually find her with her head on your lap and paw gently nudging you to pet her. She loves to run especially fetching balls! Steps to owning a Boise Golden! This is an overview. See our Adoption Process page for a full description. Step 1: Application If you are interested in learning more about our dogs or reserving a puppy for an upcoming litter, please first fill out our Puppy Application. When can I pick up my puppy? That will be posted on the specific litter page. We try to have our puppy families come get them as close to 8 weeks of age as possible. Pick up day is scheduled out a week or two in advance in order of deposit received. For example, first male would come at AM, second male at AM, and so on. The schedule will also be posted to the specific litter page. Do you deliver? Delivering puppies is not a service we regularly offer. On occasion, if the situation is right, we will do our best to accommodate. This would be at the cost of the buyer which would include, but not limited to: mileage, food, and lodging reimbursements. We do deliver puppies to the Boise, Idaho airport at no cost to the buyer. Do you offer full breeding rights? All puppies go home with AKC limited registration. If the time comes where a buyer has ran the proper health screenings on the dog that was purchased through our program hips, elbows, heart, genetics and agrees to the FULL AKC contract provided by SBG, then full breeding rights will be granted. Yes, we will ship to anywhere in the United States except Hawaii. Ground shipping or air shipping, completely at the expense of the buyer. Other options to highly consider: Flight nanny - We can give you recommendations for great flight nanny services they fly in cabin with pup. Meeting you personally at the Boise, ID airport to fly in cabin with pup. Yes, we offer stud services. We have studs in every color, in multiple places throughout the Treasure Valley. We will also highly consider pick of the litter instead of stud fees.

Rabies Vaccine Rabies is a viral infection caused by a virus secreted in the saliva. According to the Humane Society , because the infection affects the nervous system, most rabid animals behave abnormally. When should puppies get rabies shots? Generally speaking, puppies should get their first rabies shot around 16 weeks of age and again between years old. Rabies Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every 3 years Non-core Vaccines Non-core vaccines are important, but they are considered optional for dogs with less risk of infection. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle and where you live or travel. Bordetella Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium associated with respiratory disease in dogs and is known to cause the most severe form of kennel cough. Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, congestion, etc. Some veterinarians may recommend Bordetella as a core vaccine for puppies based on their living environment, especially for social dogs who spend time in areas where they might come into contact with the bacteria like the dog park, boarding facilities, or doggy daycare. The vaccination can be given orally, intranasally, or by injection. Bordetella Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every year Leptospira Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by infection of the genus Leptospira, which are found in water and soil. The zoonotic disease spreads easily from animals to humans and is more common in warm climate areas with high annual rainfall; the Leptospira vaccine may be considered core in these areas. Signs of leptospirosis may include shivering, fever, muscle tenderness, increased thirst, dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, jaundice, kidney failure, liver failure, etc. Leptospira Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 3rd shot: 1 year Booster: every year There is also a 5-way vaccine known as DHLPP, which is a combination vaccine of distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and parvo. Lyme disease Lyme disease is caused by infection with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. The most common symptoms in dogs include loss of appetite, lameness, joint swelling, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. More serious cases can also develop kidney complications. The Lyme disease vaccine is highly recommended for dogs that live in or frequently travel to areas known for Lyme disease, as well as those living in areas with a high risk of tick exposure. Lyme Vaccination Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 2nd shot: weeks later Booster: every year Canine Influenza Canine influenza, or dog flu, is a contagious viral infection affecting dogs. The virus is spread through aerosols or droplets containing respiratory secretions from barking, sneezing, and coughing. Dogs in close contact with infected dogs in places like daycare facilities, groomers, and kennels are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. CIV causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs, with the most common clinical sign being a cough that persists for up to 21 days. Vaccines are available for both H3N2 and H3N8 canine influenza. A bivalent vaccine offering protection against both strains is available as well. Dogs become infected when they swallow the parasite that may be present in water or other substances that have been soiled with feces leading to the disease Giardiasis. Giardia in dogs usually causes diarrhea, weight loss, or even death. Giardia is an available vaccine for puppies 8 weeks of age and older for 6 months of immunity against giardiasis. Most common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Young dogs are at a high risk of contracting the disease, so the vaccine is highly recommended for puppies under eight weeks. Rattlesnake vaccine A rattlesnake vaccine can help dogs build antibodies to rattlesnake venom from bites that are often deadly and severely painful to dogs. The antibodies work to neutralize the venom, thereby significantly extending the window of time you have to take your dog to the emergency room , increasing their odds of survival. Protect yourself from heartbreak without breaking the bank. Compare quotes to find the best deal for your budget. After that, puppies should receive a series of vaccines every two to four weeks until actual protein can be achieved between the ages of 6 and 20 weeks old. Your vet will determine a safe vaccine schedule for your puppy based on their weight, health, age, etc. Some pet parents prefer getting multiple puppy shots in one vet visit to minimize stress on their pet, whereas others prefer to spread the shots out to reduce possible side effects and soreness — talk to your vet to create a safe vaccine schedule that works for you and your puppy. Rabies depends on local laws but is usually given by the time your dog reaches 3 to 6 months old. When should puppies have all their shots by? Most vets prefer giving the final DHPP shot at 16 weeks or later; however, new recommendations suggest up to 20 weeks out. When do puppies need booster shots? Abstaining from booster shots can put your puppy at risk. However, not all vaccines require yearly boosters. DHPP vaccine booster: every two weeks for a total of three sets, then every three years Lepto, Canine influenza, and Lyme disease vaccine booster: one month after the initial series, then annually Bordetella booster: 1 year or every 6 months where there is a concern Rabies booster: every 1 to 3 years after the initial round, depending on state laws Puppy Vaccine Schedule There are several types of puppy shots your pet might get in their first year. In addition to a deworming schedule, your vet will suggest a vaccination schedule for puppies based on their age, environment, and medical history. Most vets recommend this general timeline for first-year puppy shots: weeks of age Between 6- and 8-weeks-old, puppies get their first shot of the DHPP distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus vaccine. They might also receive their first round of vaccinations for Bordetella and Lyme disease. Leptospira Lepto is a common puppy vaccination administered around this time frame. They'll also get their first rabies vaccine depending on state-mandated vaccine schedules for puppies, as well as a second shot of the Lepto vaccine if applicable. Boosters Every Years Puppies will need a booster shot for all vaccines at age 1. Dogs need booster vaccinations for Bordetella, Lepto, Lyme, and Giardia annually receiving their first immunization as an adult. The vaccination schedule for DHPP and rabies is every 3 years, but check your local laws and defer to your veterinarian's advice to ensure your pet stays free of disease. How much are puppy shots? Non-essential vaccines your vet may recommend will also increase the price. Note that puppy shots cost more or less depending on several different factors, including your location. For instance, vets in crowded urban areas tend to charge more than vets in smaller towns and rural areas. Also keep in mind that you'll need to budget for booster shots in one- or three-year intervals to ensure your pet stays protected from disease. Fortunately, vaccines for dogs are less expensive than first-year puppy shots because boosters are administered in one dose every few years, as opposed to multiple doses every few weeks. All puppies need to get the core vaccines, i. Your veterinarian will consider the risk factors and advise you on which vaccines are best for your puppy during the first vet visit. No, but both vaccines for puppies are often combined in one shot. Distemper and parvovirus are two different illnesses that are potentially fatal if not treated quickly. What is the 5-in-1 shot for puppies? Do puppies need 3 or 4 sets of shots? It depends on their age; vets may recommend a shorter puppy vaccination schedule for dogs over 16 weeks old and not yet fully vaccinated. How many shots do puppies need before going outside? A titer test is a blood test showing whether your puppy has antibodies for a particular illness. The test can be used to determine the effectiveness of a vaccine and help determine if or which booster vaccines your dog needs. Most doggy daycares and boarding facilities do not accept a titer test in lieu of a puppy vaccination record. When should puppies get dewormed? Because worms are very common in puppies, veterinarians recommend deworming them for the first time when they're two to three weeks old. Is there a heartworm vaccine for puppies? Preventatives can either be administered as monthly medication or every six months by injection. How can you save money on puppy shots? One way to save money on puppy vaccines is by visiting a low-cost vaccination clinic. These clinics typically offer packages that combine a bundle of vaccinations into a lower price point, but also offer individual options if your dog is due for a specific vaccine. Another way to save money on puppy shots is by purchasing a pet wellness plan through a pet insurance provider. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. What Vaccines Do Puppies Need? Core Versus Non-Core Vaccines CORE vaccines: Some infectious diseases of dogs are so common, debilitating, easily spread, or can be spread to people zoonotic that vaccination against them is deemed of critical importance. The first three are often administered as the combination DA2P shot. NON-CORE vaccines: On the other hand, there are diseases and conditions for which there are vaccines, but either because of their limited geographic distribution meaning they don't affect all parts of the country equally , lesser severity, specific lifestyle risk factors, or other reasons, they are not automatically recommended for every dog. The Benefits of Vaccines The benefits of vaccines far outweigh any risks. Vaccines are very effective and safe. Their use has notably decreased the morbidity and mortality associated with many infectious diseases. Per a study, there were only .Adverse events were more typical among smaller dogs and those receiving multiple vaccinations at one visit. Vaccine Safety Before I jump into which vaccines your puppy may need, it's critical to know that where they get their vaccines is equally as important. This is because individuals and organizations that aren't regulated, like veterinarians are, buy vaccines from places that may not know how to handle them properly. They may allow the vaccines to get warm, and this inactivates them. Or people transport them and don't keep them temperature-controlled or leave them in a vehicle for too long. In both these cases, the vaccines are essentially useless. Where you get your vaccines matters, and your veterinarian is trained and regulated to administer them properly. Puppy Vaccines By Age 6—8 weeks of age In some cases, your puppy will already have received some of these vaccines before you pick them up. Check with the people or organization you're getting your puppy from to confirm which vaccines your pup received and when. See the safety note above. This information is important for your vet to have to know best how to structure your pup's initial vaccination series, as all these puppy vaccines need to be given in a series of initial shots followed by booster shots. This vaccine may be administered as a DA2PP, which is the same thing but also includes protection against Parainfluenza an important but non-core vaccine to help protect against a highly contagious respiratory virus. If your puppy is only receiving its first vaccine or is a toy breed, your veterinarian may administer the Bordetella at the next appointment. The Bordetella vaccine comes in three different types, intra-nasal, oral, or injectable. Depending on which type of vaccine your veterinarian uses will determine if it needs to be boosted in 2 to 4 weeks. This vaccine is often recommended for dogs who will go to dog daycare, puppy classes, dog parks, dog shows, be boarded, etc. Dog Flu There are two different canine flu vaccines available, each protecting against a different strain of dog flu. If this is the first dose of this vaccine your pup is receiving, they will need another vaccination in 2—4 weeks, depending on which vaccine they are given, for the best protection. Again, this non-core vaccine is suitable for dogs who will go to puppy classes, grooming, dog parks, dog shows, travel, be boarded, etc. However, the facility needs to be clean, and all pups in attendance need to have also received their first veterinary-administered vaccines and deworming. Check with your vet and your puppy training facility of choice on timing, and see this position statement on puppy socialization timing from the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior. Meet some not all other dogs: A puppy can usually also start to meet other KNOWN and healthy puppies and adult dogs at this point in locations that are safe and clean. Avoid: Sidewalks, parks, pet stores, doggie daycare, groomers, and other areas or settings frequented by other unknown dogs. Socialization of puppies is critically important for their emotional and behavioral development, and it isn't just about them being "social" with other dogs or even people. There are many "non-social" things that young puppies need to be properly exposed to early on. Check out our Pupstanding App with its fun, easy-to-use checklist to help socialize your pup. Either way, it's an important visit. This vaccine may be administered as a DA2PP, which is the same thing, but also includes protection against Parainfluenza an important but non-core vaccine. Kennel Cough The initial vaccine can be given at this age if necessary or desired, depending on the type of vaccine used intra-nasal, oral, or injectable. Depending on which type of vaccine your veterinarian uses will determine if it needs to be boostered in 2 to 4 weeks. If this is the first dose of this vaccine your pup is receiving, they will need another vaccination in 2—4 weeks, depending on which vaccine they are receiving, for the best protection. Avoid: Sidewalks, parks, pet stores, daycare, and other areas or settings used by other unknown dogs should be avoided. Shopping malls and home improvement stores can be great places to socialize your puppy without excessive risk of contagious dog diseases. However, keeping your pet in a stroller or backpack lessens your pup's chances of being exposed to diseases. Your goal is to remove any trace of fecal matter before your pup licks their paws or contaminates your care or home. Their booster shots at this visit are important to build their immunity and help protect them from these diseases. This vaccine may be administered as a DA2PP, which is the same thing but also includes protection against Parainfluenza an important non-core vaccine. State and local regulations determine the age at which all dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. See below for more detail on what this vaccine covers against and why you or your vet might want to consider it. Note: Because Lepto can be devastating to both your dog and you it is zoonotic , and also because all dogs can be at risk including even indoor-only dogs and those that never leave their backyard , your veterinarian may highly recommend and consider this vaccine "core," and may recommend starting the initial series in the 9—12 week age range rather than 12— 16 weeks old. See below for more detail on what the Lepto vaccine covers against and why you or your vet might want to consider it. Where your puppy can usually go and what they can usually do after this 12—16 week vaccine visit: Play with unknown dogs: Following this visit, a puppy can usually begin to expand their circle of friends to include unknown dogs i. Still avoid: Daycare centers, fields, and parks including dedicated dog parks should still be avoided. Where your puppy can usually go and what they can usually do after this 15—17 week vaccine visit: Freedom! One week after this final puppy vaccine visit, most pups have enough vaccine protection against the common vaccinable conditions to be able to get a full groom and go to the dog park, doggie daycare, pet stores, and other places where large groups of unknown dogs frequent and congregate. Of course, it's still a good idea to keep an eye out and avoid any obviously sick dogs. Booster vaccinations will be needed throughout their life. The frequency and types of vaccine boosters your dog will need throughout their life are influenced by their lifestyle, where you live and travel to with them, how common certain diseases are in your area and at different times of the year, and a host of other factors. For some dogs and some conditions, titers blood tests measuring the level of antibodies in your dog's system may help to determine vaccination intervals and may be preferable. This is a discussion to have with your vet. Titer Testing for Dogs A titer is a test that is done using a sample of your dog's blood to measure the level of antibodies to a specific disease. Antibodies are proteins made by the body as a response to antigens. Antigens are foreign substances or stimuli to the body, such as viruses, bacteria, or vaccinations, that cause the body to mount an immune response. Vaccine titers are used as a screening tool to determine whether or not to revaccinate for a particular disease. If a vaccine titer comes back high, this indicates that your dog, if exposed to that disease, should be able to fight it off. The problem with titers Vaccines are given either yearly or every 3 years. With titers, there is no way to predict what the levels will be in three to six months, even if they tested high at the time of the titer testing. Many factors can affect the immune system and its level of resistance. Factors such as disease, stress, or medications can impact it, and therefore there is no consistency over time regarding what the antibody levels could be. This could put your dog at risk until you go in for another titer test. Rabies is a vaccine required by law in all states. There are only certain states that allow titers for medical exceptions. Every puppy is different. Similarly, some puppies are born with deficiencies in their immune system, or their immune system may develop more slowly because of dietary or other factors. Maternal immunity is protective but can interfere with a puppy's vaccinations. Over the first few weeks of life, maternal immunity begins to decline, and by about 12 weeks it is generally gone. However, some puppies are provided protection by maternal immunity as old as 20 weeks. The vaccines are given as a series to give the maternal immunity time to wane while their own immune system is fully developing in response to and in conjunction with their shots. Missing a Vaccine or Booster Shot Dog owners should be aware that missing or delaying a vaccine in a series for more than 4 weeks puts a puppy at risk of disease. During the initial series of a vaccine, if you delay a booster more than six weeks or miss one, an additional booster vaccine will be needed 3 weeks after resuming the series. For example, if you miss the third vaccine in the DA2P series, a vaccine will be given and then boosted again in 3 weeks. Note: You may need to restart a series two vaccine doses 3 to 4 weeks apart for yearly vaccines that are not boosted within 1 year and 6 weeks from the last vaccine given. Vaccine-Preventable Diseases in Dogs The core vs. Your veterinarian is your best resource for helping to determine which vaccines your new pup would benefit from and when. They are the only ones who have the medical training and understanding, as well as the first-hand knowledge of your dog and your environment necessary to best guide you. Note that some of the vaccinable conditions listed below can be zoonotic, meaning that they can also infect and cause disease in people. The bacteria is transmitted through the air or direct contact, especially when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread by contaminated clothing, bowls, beds, and other communal surfaces such as cages or kennels. What Shots Do Puppies Need Did you know that vaccines work the same for dogs as they do for you and me? By triggering the production of antibodies, vaccines allow the body the chance to build up immunity to a disease, virus, or bacteria. However, while vaccines are certainly effective, they do not make us immune to the possibility of contracting the illness we were vaccinated for—they just make us and our furry friends less likely to suffer severe symptoms. Puppy Pro Tip: Core vaccines are those which are recommended for all dogs, regardless of lifestyle factors. On the other hand, non-core vaccines are not necessarily recommended for all dogs, and are evaluated on a pup-by-pup basis by your vet; non-core vaccine recommendations are based on factors such as: lifestyle, health conditions, location, risk factors, etc. Bordetella Known to cause a highly infectious form of bronchitis in dogs, Bordetella is nothing to mess around with! Some pups become so ill from the bacterium that they suffer from serious side effects, including vomiting, seizures, and rarely death. The good news is, Bordetella can be avoided! Simply ask your vet about the different options for vaccination—which usually include a nasal spray or a traditional injectable vaccine. What makes distemper so contagious is the fact that it spreads easily through respiratory droplets in the air, as well as through shared water and food bowls that have been contaminated. For these reasons, the canine distemper vaccine is considered a core vaccine. The symptoms of distemper are often on the serious side and range from coughing and vomiting, to diarrhea, seizures, paralysis, and even death. Because there is no cure for canine distemper, the best thing you can do for your pet is vaccinate them! Hepatitis While unrelated to human hepatitis, canine hepatitis affects your pup in largely the same way—by attacking the liver, kidneys, lungs, eyes, and spleen. The symptoms can range from congestion and fever, to vomiting, stomach swelling, and severe liver pain. Like distemper, there is no official cure for canine hepatitis. Symptoms can often be managed in milder forms; however, more severe forms can be fatal. Because of the risk of fatality, this is considered a core vaccine. Additionally, this is considered a core vaccine. This infection is insidious, as the early stages produce no symptoms. However, in the later stages of the disease, a heartworm infection can cause breathing difficulties and lethargy in your pup. For the health of your pup, it is important to start the preventative medication as soon as your vet deems it appropriate to do so. Kennel Cough Also known as Infectious Tracheobronchitis, Kennel Cough is the all-encompassing name given to a set of symptoms that include dry, harsh coughing, and— occasionally—gagging, retching, and a loss of appetite. Rarely, it is fatal. Kennel cough is often caused by either Bordetella, Parainfluenza, or both. Kennel cough is highly contagious and can be transferred between dogs that are in close proximity. Leptospirosis Caused by a bacteria that exists naturally in soil and water all over the world, Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease— meaning, it can spread between animals and humans —that can have severe consequences. Serious side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, weakness, infertility, and even kidney and liver failure. Lyme Disease As with humans, canine Lyme disease is contracted through a bite from an infected tick. In dogs, symptoms of infection can include swollen lymph nodes, fever, loss of appetite, and even limping. If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to neurological disorders in your furry friend. There are antibiotics which can be administered if diagnosed quickly; however, if you have already received the vaccination, your pup has a much better chance of quick recovery. Parvo attacks the gastrointestinal tract and can lead to fever, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea. Because Parvo causes extreme dehydration in dogs, it can become fatal as early as hours after contracting it. Unfortunately, once Parvo is contracted, there is no cure. The serious symptoms— combined with the lack of a cure for Parvo— are a part of what makes it a core vaccine. Canine rabies is one of the most serious diseases your pet can get—it invades the central nervous system and eventually leads to death if immediate treatment is not administered. The good news is, the rabies vaccine is considered a core vaccine and as a result, most states have regulations requiring rabies vaccines to be administered regularly; simply talk to your vet to learn more. It seems like every time you turn around, there's another shot your pup needs. And keeping track of all the different types of vaccinations can be a real challenge. But don't worry, we're here to help. In this article, we provide a comprehensive A-to-Z guide for dog vaccination in India - covering everything you need to know about what shots are available, when they should be administered, and more! Why vaccinate your dog? There are a number of important reasons to vaccinate your dog. Vaccinations help protect your dog from a variety of serious and potentially deadly diseases. They also help reduce the spread of disease among dogs and from dogs to humans. Vaccinating your dog is one of the best things you can do to keep them healthy and happy and is an important part of responsible pet parenting. So here's a quick rundown of the most common vaccinations dogs need. All dogs should be vaccinated against rabies, and booster shots should be given every one to three years depending on state law. Parvovirus: Parvovirus is a deadly disease that can affect dogs of all ages, but puppies are especially vulnerable. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing severe vomiting and diarrhoea. Parvovirus can also cause heart problems and death. All dogs should be vaccinated against parvovirus, with booster shots given every one to two years. Distemper: Distemper is a highly contagious disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs. It can cause severe coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and death. Puppies are especially vulnerable to the disease. All dogs should be vaccinated against distemper, with booster shots given every one to two years. Leptospirosis: Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects the kidneys and liver of dogs. It can be transmitted through contact with contaminated water or soil. The disease can cause severe kidney damage and death. All dogs should be vaccinated against leptospirosis, with booster shots given every one to two years. Infectious Canine Hepatitis: Hepatitis is a viral disease that affects the liver of dogs. The symptoms can range from loss of appetite and thirst, fever and bleeding. It is usually spread through contact with contaminated or infected urine, saliva or faeces. Non-core Vaccines for Dogs: There are a few vaccines that are considered "non-core" for dogs, which means that they are not necessarily required for all dogs. However, your veterinarian may recommend them based on your dog's lifestyle and risk factors. Bordetella kennel cough is a bacteria that can cause respiratory infections in dogs. It is often spread through close contact with other dogs, so if your dog socialises with other dogs regularly, your veterinarian may recommend this vaccine. Canine ParaInfluenza is a virus that can cause respiratory illness in dogs. It is most commonly spread through close contact with other infected dogs. You might want to get this vaccine once you discuss it with your veterinarian. Lyme Vaccine is used to help prevent Lyme Disease, which is caused by a bacteria transmitted by ticks. If your dog spends time in areas where ticks are common such as woods or tall grass , your veterinarian may recommend this vaccine. Coronavirus: The canine coronavirus CCoV is a virus that can cause intestinal infections and abdominal discomfort in dogs. It is most commonly spread through close contact with other infected dogs, therefore, if your dog socialises with other dogs regularly, you can consider administering this vaccine once you discuss it with your veterinarian. They will need a booster shot every weeks of core vaccines until they are 16 weeks old. After that, they will need an annual booster shot. Usually, this means regular vet checkups and puppy vaccinations. This is especially important if you have other dogs or other pets in your household. Otherwise, you may want to bring a stool sample with you when you first see the vet. Ask your vet to clarify what, if any, samples you should bring with you. This article is intended as a general guide for puppy vaccinations. If you have any specific questions or concerns relating to your puppy, please consult your licensed veterinarian. Most puppies should be vaccinated starting at 10 weeks old. Some vets may recommend annual booster shots. There is significant debate on whether booster shots every year are necessary or if they do more harm than good to the immune system. Speak to your vet and share your concerns about booster shots. Vaccines are meant to keep your puppy from catching a specific disease. Just like children are vaccinated against measles or chicken pox, puppies are vaccinated against rabies, distemper and other common but dangerous diseases. However, if you live in an area where certain diseases are more frequent, then there may be other legal requirements for vaccinations. The American Animal Hospital Association and the American Veterinary Medicine Association both recommend that your puppy be vaccinated against these core potentially fatal and non-core not as deadly diseases. Your vet will also be able to recommend vaccines that are the most appropriate for your puppy so be sure to ask. This is why the rabies vaccine is required by law. Once your puppy has been immunized for rabies, you can expect to bring your dog in for a booster shot once a year or once every three years, depending on local laws. Death or chronic kidney problems are the unfortunate results of canine hepatitis. Parvovirus is a life-threatening illness that attacks white blood cells. In puppies, parvovirus can damage the heart muscles and cause death or chronic heart problems. Canine distemper does not have a known cure. Vaccination has significantly cut down on the spread of canine distemper. Your vet will have more knowledge about your dog and local infections, and should be able to recommend one or more of these vaccinations: Lyme Disease can be passed on to dogs from tick bites and typically causes joint inflation, arthritis and lameness. However, Lyme disease can be treated and very rarely causes death in dogs. Kennel Cough, a mild respiratory tract infection, can be caused by the parainfluenza virus or the bordetella bacterium. Coronavirus causes puppy diarrhea. Puppies younger than 12 weeks are at the highest risk for mortality. Giardiasis is caused by the parasite species giardia that lives in the intestine. Dogs usually catch the parasites from one another through infected fecal matter. Distemper is related to the measles virus and is part of the four recommended core vaccinations. Leptospirosis is contagious to humans and can be caught from infected water, soil or other animals. Soreness at the injection site is the most common side effect of vaccinations. But if you do notice changes in behavior, skin rashes, high fever, vomiting or signs of dizziness, call your vet right away. As to costs, it depends on where you live and the number of vaccines you choose to give your dog. Found this article helpful? 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Crate training is a great option for leaving our dogs temporarily while our backs are turned. But what if your dog needs a little more exercise and movement than that? Or you need to leave your dog unattended for a slightly longer period of time. Or allowing you to leave them for a short period of time safely but still able to stretch their legs and play. The Best Indoor Dog Playpen Do you want your dog near you, but safely out of the way while you complete a task or have unsuitable small kids toys out? Then temporarily popping up an indoor dog playpen can be really helpful. With 2 easy access doors, it is simple to use and convenient in a variety of locations. This outdoor playpen has stakes that can be secured into the ground for safety. Portable Dog Playpens Another handy use of the dog playpen is on the move. Taking your dog on holiday, visiting friends or just keeping him secure in various parts of your home or back yard? Then a portable dog playpen might be just what you need. This dog playpen with floor zipper bottom is a spacious tent that can be customized by making it soft and cozy inside with blankets and toys. The mesh material is designed to promote better circulation of airflow and to keep outdoor critters and bugs out. The mesh design is waterproof as well, making this an ideal outdoor playpen. It lso comes in a good large dog playpen size! With zippers to easily zip up the door and a removable top, it is also water resistant and can be used in or out of doors. The inside is made of oxford cloth and it has two zipper openings for easy in and out access. The bottom also unzips. It folds up easily and comes with a carrying case. These outdoor puppy pens are ideal for when you need to do some gardening or work outdoors. They are also very handy if you are staying somewhere that is unfenced or has access to livestock. Not to mention safe for your pet and durable, with rust-resistant coating. It can also be used with other OxGord playpens so that it can be expanded to suit even the biggest area and liveliest dog! Choose the 40 inch option for a Labrador, and get as many panels as you can fit! It features a durable and shiny black finish that looks great outdoors in a yard. This playpen also features a double latch for security and a premium design that is stable and protective so your dog is safe and contained. Metal Dog Playpens Traditionally dog playpens were normally made of metal. Its eight 2 foot wide panels can be configured into different shapes and sizes. Each configuration is a 16 square foot enclosed area when completed, which provides plenty of running room for your precious pup. The wire design is also safe and durable, so your dog stays contained inside and you can leave them with confidence. Go with the 48 inch height option for adult Labradors. It is collapsible and can be set up or broken down as needed, and can be used in or outdoors. It measures 64 inches, which is more than enough room to contain a large dog. Plastic Dog Playpens Plastic playpens are durable, easy to transport and lighter weight than their metal counterparts. It can fit puppies and small to large dogs of all sizes, and can be used both indoor and outdoors. Measuring 21 square feet of exercise space, the IRIS playpen is durable and rust-proof, and features non-skid rubber feet so that your flooring is protected. Check it out on Amazon here. This is a large dog playpen indoor area that you can customize to train puppies or just have an open space for your dog to exercise inside the home. They make it easier to keep the area clean and any potential hazards away from your pet. The mesh screen allows you to watch your pet and keep an eye on them, and the waterproof design means you can keep it outdoors so your puppy can get some fresh air and fun in the sun. All of the panels are zippers, meaning your pup will stay in safely while getting their daily dose of fresh air. It offers a great combination of durability and mobility. Zip front door and top make for easy access and give your pup the freedom to go in and out as they please. Perfect for camping, traveling and keeping your puppy contained indoors when needed. This dog playpen is sturdy. Small Dog Playpens Do you need a small dog playpen for your young puppy? Are you short on space and need somewhere to keep him safe temporarily? Then here are a couple of great little puppy playpen choices. This small puppy playpen is portable and lightweight. Water resistant, this playpen also has a removable zipper top. Great for indoors, outdoors and travel, this playpen is super easy to setup and breakdown, requiring virtually no room for storage. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Disclaimer: this article contains Amazon affiliate links, which support Dog Gear Review if you purchase the product after clicking on it without costing you anything extra. Using affiliate links will never compromise us writing unbiased, honest reviews! Having an area where your new family member is safe when you cannot monitor them is a key to keeping your sanity during the first weeks. As they start to understand what they can and cannot chew and get better with potty training, you can offer them more freedom, but using a pen initially can give you a well-needed break knowing they cannot get into trouble while you are dealing with something else. In our case, it was also crucial because our older dog, Mia, is not happy about having Zulu around, so we needed to keep them entirely separate for the first weeks. This allowed them to decompress and get comfortable with the new situation without being able to interact. This 9-panel setup easily fits a small crate and potty areas while still leaving plenty of playing space. I also used some of the panels to create barriers at the doors and the stairs to separate the two dogs while they were settling into our new life. The pen is available in four heights 24"" and comes in 8, 16, 24, and panel versions. The stakes connecting the panels can secure the pen outdoors. For indoor use, they just introduced accessories : floor protectors for the end of the stakes and the Muffler Tubes to reduce the sound of the rods shaking when the dog moves the pen. These make the pen a lot more convenient for indoor use! The pen also comes with a door, so you have easy access. The latch holds the door with a safety latch, so Zulu never managed to push it open - unless we forgot to close the door all the way in until the lock clicked. There are many options that you can use for flooring. I wanted something waterproof and thick enough to stay in place. My goal was to protect the floor from the pen sliding on it, create a non-slip surface for Zu, and make cleaning up accidents easier. If you are willing to spend more, garage flooring like the G-Floor Cover is a great option. I used a cheap floor mat from Home Depot that we already had. It is not ideal once the puppy starts chewing on things because the spongy material is easily chewed through, and they can swallow it. In the initial period, I wrapped the mat with old sheets and blankets and replaced that every day with a new one, which made cleaning up easier. Later I removed the mats and just left a thicker blanket there for her to lay on. What to put in the pen? The main guiding principle here is to only have items in the pen that are safe for the dog. Be sure to think through what your new dog can destroy or get tangled in and only let them play with those outsides of the pen when you are supervising. Also, double-check that there are no cables they can reach from the pen and pull in to play with. My experience is that a litter box is much easier for puppies to understand than using pee pads because it provides clear boundaries they need to enter for the potty area. Also, when you remove the pads, many dogs transition to the carpet since it is close enough in look and feel in their mind. The litter is a different surface and feeling than anything else in a home, so I feel this makes transitioning easier. It should be low, so they can step in easily but plenty big so they can turn around in it to find the perfect spot. In the beginning, she needed two boxes, so there was always one close by, then I removed one as her potty training improved. It is dust-free and does an excellent job absorbing what needs to be absorbed. I used the top of the storage boxes by the litter box because Zulu ran to the box at the beginning and started peeing when only her first paws were in there. I think the sides of the boxes were too tall for her tiny legs at the beginning, and it was hard for her to get in quickly. Having the tops by the boxes made cleaning up these accidents very easy. It also has a handle, so if the dog tries playing with it, you can secure it to the crate with a carabiner. Also, they could swallow the filling, the zipper, or other parts, resulting in an emergency vet visit. Zulu had a few weeks in the beginning when she left this mat alone and was very happy sleeping on it, then later started chewing it, so now we are back to using blankets and towels. I opted for crate training because when we are at search training or staying over somewhere, Zulu needs to stay in a crate, so I like to regularly use it at home as well to ensure she is comfortable in it. Zulu is also a shy pup, and she really likes that she can hide in her crate if she gets overwhelmed with visitors or something else. Keeping her crate closed for the night sped up her potty training process. We started with a simple wire crate, then received a Collapsible Crate from Impact Crates , and Zulu felt a lot safer in its more closed design. The Impact Crates are on the high end of the crate options on the market but they are made of aluminum, and the Collapsible design we received folds down to just 8 inches, making it great for traveling. It is also IATA-approved, so we can use it for flights if we need to fly again with the dogs. They also offer a puppy divider that you can safely secure so you can already use it for a puppy and give them more room as they grow. We also have two other articles on the different enrichment toys and engagement builder interactive toys that we used with Zulu. Having a set of different chews on hand was great to help her settle down and give her something to do. Latter comes in different thicknesses and lengths, so you can choose the ideal size for your pup and size up as they grow. Setup change over time Below is the first setup, and the next image is how it looks today. After 2 or 3 weeks, I needed to remove the flooring so Zulu could not chew the floor mat. The pen is also secured to the heavier Impact crate that helps to keep the pen in place. Keeping a pup contained and monitored helps set them up for success because you limit their ability to make mistakes without you noticing what they are doing in time. Outdoor Pen Mia always loved spending time on the deck, so I wanted to give Zulu the chance to enjoy the same while keeping her contained so she could not chew on the patio furniture, get in some trouble or annoy Mia. This was also important to expose Zulu to the smells and noise of our area when she was still not allowed to go for walks. The FXW pen can be used both indoors and outdoors, so I moved a few panels to create a patio section for Zulu. This also allows them to get used to each other without interacting when I am not monitoring them completely. There is a little rust here and there on the panels used outside after two months, but altogether, they are holding up well enough. Summary I hope you found this guide helpful! Feel free to reach out with questions if I missed anything! Suggested Articles November 26, The holiday season is just around the corner, so it was time to create our gift recommendation list for dogs for ! We only recommend products that we tried and liked because we all want to find gifts that will be a success. In times of overconsumption, we want to provide a list of functional and well-made products to ensure they will not just sit in the corner or be thrown out after a few days. November 25, Dark days are here, and most of us need to face walking in the dark before or after work, so this is the best time to collect a few different options that provide visibility for our dogs! When thinking about visibility, there are passive or active options: passive being a reflective harness or vest that only lights up when, e. November 23, We know how hard it is to find exciting or unique toys the dogs will not ruin in the first 5 minutes, so Zulu and Mia worked hard to test out a few options for you over the last weeks! They are not super hard chewers, but both of them are hard on their toys, so our requirement for this list was to find toys that the dogs are excited about, AND the toy needs to survive at least three days of play. November 21, Do you have a dog who only cares about food? Here are a few ideas on how to make their holiday season even more special! The Bonus Bites Freeze-Dried Training Treats are single-ingredient treats, so you can safely give them to dogs with food allergies. November 20, Dog puzzle toys are here to entertain and challenge our dogs, but they are meant to be used with supervision. Many articles confuse them with treat dispensers that can be used while the dog is left alone. For example, a Kong or similar hard rubber toy that can be stuffed with treats is an enrichment toy but not a puzzle toy. October 23, What is a Coyote Vest? How does it protect a dog? Why would a dog need a coyote vest? We have another article going into all these topics, but I wanted to have a summary here as well. Coyotes typically stay away from people and dogs, but our town has a serious problem with coyotes who were born in the town and are not afraid of cars, people, or even big dogs. October 22, While many think dog and human treadmills are the same, and companies are just trying to make more money by repacking them into seemingly dog-specific products, there are actually a few significant differences. Here are a few reasons why. October 20, What is a dog treadmill? How does it work? There are motorized and non-motorized dog treadmills. The motorized ones are similar to the human treadmills, with a few crucial differences that we address in a separate article. October 12, What is canicross? Canicross is a sport where people and dogs run together. Sometimes the dog runs by their person, but most of the time, they run up front, pulling on a bungee leash while taking verbal cues for direction. What do I need to start running with my dog? We loved the original Freemotion harness, and we were excited to test the new one! The photo below shows the original version that we reviewed in .The most obvious difference is that the original harness only came in black, while the 5. They also added a small reflective loop to the top above the shoulders , an existing feature of the Nansen nome harness 5. I did go to several baby stores, Wally world, etc and all of them were too small and bulky. After having looked at Tractor Supplies website I decided to drive out and see for myself. After speaking with a very helpful sale s woman dog owner I cam home with this. H - Tractor Supply Co. We also use a Midwest crate that we house him at night. When Romeo gets a little bigger I plan on moving it back into the foyer and when needed connecting this barrier to it. Using the supplied latches and some medium sized office clips it holds securely. This way he will have his crate for sleeping with a gallon water bottle and a play pen to get around in. Using this play pen is a first and we have seen some serious benefits already. It keeps him out of trouble! Leaving it where he can see us and our other dog keeps his anxiety way down along with a pillow and toys. Food training with another dog is simplified where he is in the same area as the other dog but is kept in his pen to eat his own food with no wandering. It is light weight and ultra portable where my small wife can easily operate it, fold it up and transport it. It comes with stakes if you want to stake to the ground outside and I think you can order extra panels but they did not have those in the store. The door works surprisingly well and latches exactly like their crate we have. Keeping a large pillow inside keeps him from scooting the pen to far out of shape to make it collapse or run off with it and so far so good. I choose the 36" tall pen as it will remain tall enough for him until 6 months of age but he may be too heavy by then, we'll see. Being a tall man I can reach over the top to grab a toy or place him down in but I wouldn't recommend this unless you are 6'4" and beyond. This is not meant for permanent use, large dogs or multiple dogs by any stretch. I've owned MANY dogs from 8 weeks on and wanted something where I was not chasing him all over for over watching. Couldn't stand locking him in a crate for "time out" breaks as that always turned into eruptions of whaling. Its not cute or pretty and it isn't supposed to be but it does work. One benefit to this design is that the one gallon water bottle we have will work on the wire pen. If need be on can be hung and used very easily link below of the one we have. Sorry but I did not weigh it or remember to look on the box as to how much but it was one of the criteria for purchase. When home and assembled I had my wife fold it up and then pick it up to see what she thought. Good to go and plenty light enough for her to maneuver. There's nothing to assemble for exception of these weird little panel braces if you want to use them. They are for straightening out two panels but were unnecessarily difficult to use and were thrown away. There are four "latches" that are smallish leash style clasps that are for joining two ends together. That's how I figured out that the black metal office binders hold it together very firmly were the dog cannot get them undone.

Finding a suitable collar for your dog matters, especially if you own a smaller dog like a pug. Pugs are adorable, but finding the right collar can quickly become challenging as you review various options and understand what they include, requiring you to consider multiple points. Ensure you review the best collars on the market, see what you should consider while you buy a collar, and keep your pug safe. Best Dog Collars for Pugs You should start by reviewing the best pug collars on the market. Doing so will help you see what matters the most, which options you like, and pick your favorite. A lightweight and comfortable design Supports 40 percent more GPS satellites Waterproof design Three months battery life Over pound resistance This collar focuses on tracking your pug and keeping them safe and healthy. It has a waterproof design It supports the Fi GPS unit Includes a quick-release collar The webbing is flexible It includes a D-ring A waterproof design on your collar never hurts since you can use it in the rain and various weather conditions. You can also add the GPS unit to track your dog with the collar if you have it. Nylon Collar Speaking of other options on the market, you should look into a Nylon collar to see if your pug may prefer it. Includes sliders for adjusting Custom nameplates on the collar No-slip design D-ring for your leash Over 20 colors The collar focuses on customization to meet your needs and help you make it perfect for your pug. For example, the sliders ensure you find the perfect tightness to keep it on without becoming uncomfortable. Go with this option if your dog tends to escape or run away. Rope Hounds Collar You can use an aluminum and plastic combination if you purchase a Rope Hounds Collar Band while enjoying various features. Over one dozen color choices Supports a GPS device A lightweight design A clasp to keep it on Since you have multiple color choices, you can pick whichever one you like the most. The design prioritizes a lightweight and comfortable design, utilizing webbing to offer more comfort. You also have a clasp to put it on and take it off your pug whenever needed. What Makes a Collar Good for a Pug? You want to consider multiple crucial points as you think about what works best for pug collars. Comfortability Size Durability You can choose an option your pug can comfortably wear at most moments. Owners usually have their dogs wear their collars most of the day, so they can keep a tag on them in case they run off, and they can easily take them on walks as needed. Size also plays a role in what works for your pug. You also want to go through the options and determine which ones hold up the best. That includes finding one made of excellent material. Choosing the right collar for your dog depends on what your dog needs. For example, some people prefer to focus on materials, others like the idea of GPS trackers, and others care about which color they purchase from the store. You can even find ones with quick-release or sliding buckles. Quick-release options allow you to easily take off the collar while sliding buckles let you adjust the collar to the perfect size. Plastic and nylon Fabric Leather Plastic works well for various collars since they have good durability while also maintaining a waterproof design. Aluminum matters as you look into options with buckles and loops on them. Leather is a comfortable choice if you purchase it for your dog. Do Pugs Need a Special Collar? You should also think about your environment and other circumstances. The same applies to collars with reflective strips if you walk your pug during the evening. In short, think about what you want to do with your dog, see which course of action works the best, and do what you can to find the best pug collars available. A global positioning system GPS collar also matters as you review your options for pug collars. If your dog runs off somewhere, you can look up their location, find them, and protect your puppy from dangerous situations. Track Activity and Sleep You can also keep track of your pug while they spend time nearby. You can also see when they sleep and determine if your pug sleeps enough during the day. Final Thoughts Pug collars matter as you consider your options and your furry friend's needs. As you do, consider an option with GPS to find your pug if they ever run off alone. Doing so will help you protect your pug, keep them nearby while you walk, and do whatever you must to make your furry friend comfortable and happy. For additional pet-parenting tips, head over to TryFi. And don't forget to check out TryFi's innovative Fi Dog Collar , which offers GPS tracking, activity monitoring, and escape alerts to keep your furry friend safe. The link has been copied! You might also like. When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? Owners who wonder if a collar or a harness is better for a Pug dog, the answer is that both are important accessories for this breed and each will serve different purposes. However, for the Pug this is should not be the case since this is a brachycephalic breed. Being brachycephalic, the face is flat with a short snout. Nasal and airways passages are compressed, with many Pugs having some level of stenotic nares narrows nasal openings. The soft palate located in the back of the throat is often elongated, causing some issues with breathing. Due to the structure of the face and the short neck of the Pug, ability to breath correctly is already an issue with this breed. If the leash is connected to the collar all pressure, force and tension is placed directly onto a Pug's neck. This can cause several serious issues including: Compression and constriction whenever the Pug pulls ahead and the leash goes taut, causing increased breathing difficulties Injury to the windpipe if the Pug lunges to the side or jerks his head including the very serious issue of collapsed trachea in which rings of cartilage surrounding the windpipe collapse inward. The Harness A proper harness should be the apparatus that is used any time that a Pug dog is on leash. As opposed to a collar, the harness will distribute pressure, force and tension across the dog's shoulders, chest and back. These areas of the body are much sturdier since they are comprised of bone and muscle as opposed to softer cartilage and ligaments of the neck. Using a harness frees the Pug's neck from potential injury and allows the Pug puppy or dog to breathe easier when on leash. In addition, the right harness will give an owner better control when walking a Pug. This is a curious breed that often tends to want to lead while on walks. A harness allows an owner to better control the puppy or dog, keeping him on course, without having to worry about causing any type of neck injury or pulling that would inhibit breathing in a dog that already has struggles in this respect. Choosing a Collar for Your Pug Though connecting a leash to a collar is not recommended, you may still want your Pug to wear one for other reasons. This would including to hang a dog tag for ID purposes. And many owners find it easier to have a collar on their dog inside the home to help facilitate handling such as grooming. There are over 20 different types of collars and there are only a couple that are ideal for this breed. Let's first look at what type of collar should NEVER be used: X Flat Buckle Collars - These are similar to a belt in which the sizing of the collar's diameter is adjusted with prongs that slip into punched holes. The issue with these is that you need to fidget with the buckle when taking it off and with this breed, breathing issues can come on very quickly. You'll want a collar that you can take off almost instantly. X Choke collar - These are exceedingly dangerous for the Pug breed. Made of chain with rings at the ends; both 'dead' and 'live'. When a leash is attached to the live ring, the chain instantly slips tighter when the dog pulls, causing a massive jerk to the neck. X Prong collar - These are used as a means of control via pinching the dog's neck when he pulls while on leash. The interlocking steel link collar's metal spikes are considered - by many- to be inhumane for any dog. The choke and prong collars mentioned above have been associated with whiplash, spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis, fainting, collapsed trachea, asphyxiation, fracture of the bones in the larynx, bruising of the esophagus, dislocated neck bones, damage to the skin and tissues in the neck, brain damage and dislocated eyes the eye s are forced from the socket due to excessive restraint to the head and neck. Now, let's look at the best collars for a Pug puppy or older dog. For this breed, the two best options are: Flat collar, quick release - This consists of one flat, adjustable strap that fits around the neck. It closes with a clasp that is ideal for fast removal. You'll want it to be lightweight yet sturdy, weather resistant and with stitching only on one side to prevent irritation. Examples would be if the Pug's collar got accidentally caught on an object such as fencing, a part of a safety gate or even a chair, in which the dog would otherwise be strangled. Material - The material that the collar is made of along with its thickness will determine how heavy it is and therefore how much weight will be placed on a Pug's neck. Flat collars the type recommended for this breed can be found in an array of materials that include leather, polyester or nylon webbing. Let's look at the choices: Polyester - This is a cheap material that is made from synthetic polymers. This low quality fabric wears out extremely quickly, absorb and hold body oils that can lead to terrible smells and are not a good choice. Leather - These collars can look very stylish though the downsides are that these are not waterproof and some cheaper leathers can stretch out over time. Nylon - Webbed nylon, flat collars with a quick release or breakaway clasp are the best choice for most Pugs. A quality collar made of nylon webbing will be weather resistant, washable, resistant to odors and sturdy. Size - The general rule of safety and comfort is that once the collar is on, you can easily slip two fingers between it and your dog's neck. This allows it to be loose enough to avoid any type of constriction but be tight enough that it cannot slip off or be easily snagged onto something. While the collar for your Pug will be adjustable, you'll want to make sure that as your puppy grows, it can be sized to still fit those two fingers underneath. Pug puppies often wear collars sized for toy breeds, though this will change after the first year. Since the Pug is the largest of all toy breeds with an adult weight of 13 to 18 pounds 5. How Many Collars You Should Have for Your Pug You'll want to have at least 2 quality collars so that if one is taken off your Pug and misplaced, you'll still have one on hand. The collars should be periodically checked for any wear and tear. Depending on their use if you always use one and the backup one is rarely used you may need to replace the collar anywhere from every 2 to 5 years. Times to Remove the Collar Many owners wonder if it is okay to keep the collar of a Pug when the dog is at home inside the house. One element that you'll want to be exceedingly aware of is the chance of the door being opened and the Pug darting outside. If you do take the collar off when at home, it can help to have a rule that even household members knock on the door to announce their presence so that the dog can be held while the door opens. While it can be freeing for a dog to be collar-free while sleeping and playing inside of the house, for some this can cause intolerance for times that it must be placed on. Bittoo, 20 months old Photo courtesy of Vishnoo Sangeet Dubey For puppies in the house training phase, it's best to keep it on at all times since you may only have seconds to bring the pup to the designated bathroom area and spending time putting the collar on can result in an accident inside the home. It is recommended to take a Pug's collar off when brushing the coat. Since this is a heavy shedding breed, the collar can impede proper grooming. You'll want to be able to do long strokes down the back of the head, over the neck and along the back in addition to the front of the neck and down the chest. It should also be removed during baths to properly scrub and rinse the coat; keeping in mind that a wet dog is quite slippery and all exit points of the house should be secured to prevent an unplanned escape. For Pugs that have breathing problems due to tracheal collapse or other medical issues, the veterinarian may recommended that the collar be kept off while the dog recovers. Choosing a Harness for Your Pug As mentioned above, a harness is a necessary accessory to use any time that a Pug is on leash. Some owners shy away from harnesses due to a bad experience of the Pug resisting or showing intolerance for it; however in most cases this is just a matter of the dog needing time to become accustomed to it and having one that is comfortable. The best type of harness for a Pug will be easy to slip on and will fit comfortable without pinching the skin. Let's look at some things to keep in mind: 1 A comfort wrapped, strapped harness is the best choice for most Pugs as these are designed for flat faced breeds with wide chests. If the straps are too thin, they will pinch and cut into the dog's skin, causing discomfort, redness and even sores. This way, it's super easy to put on and off within seconds. However, adult Pugs are more powerful and this type of harness often does not properly distribute pressure on a dog as large as a full grown Pug. Leaving it on can cause body oils to accumulate under the strapping, blocking healthy air circulation to both skin and coat. Our favorite choice: It has these great features: Quality nylon that is sturdy but soft to the touch won't chafe a Pug's skin Has quick-snap buckles on both the shoulder and belly making it super easy to put on Has a Martingale loop on the chest piece this prevent the harness from twisting The strap that goes under the Pug is a slightly different color, so you'll always know how to put it on Did you find this article helpful? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Rated 5. There are plenty of options available for this breed. What Size Collar for Pugs? Pugs are considered to be small dogs with neck sizes that measure about 10 to 14 inches around. You should be able to easily fit two fingers underneath the collar when it is attached to the pug. Pug Temperament The existence of Pugs were first recorded in China as pet companions for Chinese nobility. Pugs are popular as pets for a reason. Their sociable and gentle nature is full of personality and are known to be charming, affectionate, and mischievous. These pups are very intelligent and clever, so training them can sometimes be a challenge. Choosing the right collar for a pug is extremely important. The best type of collar to fit your precious pug are those that are flat with a quick release or break away. The reason for this is because pugs are a brachycephalic breed, dogs that have flat faces and short snouts. This can cause difficulty in breathing when a collar with a leash is used on them. It can cause injury to their windpipe if they pull and jerk their head, resulting in a collapsed trachea among other possible injuries. For that reason, we recommend using a harness with a leash. With that in mind, there are plenty of options available for collars—including leather and nylon. Leather Collars for Pugs Calmer and more obedient Pugs will benefit from a leather collar, which can provide a combination of durability and comfort. Also, for Pugs with super sensitive skin, leather collars are the best option. Nylon Collars for Pugs Pugs that are calm and have a good temperament will also benefit from a nylon collar. Regardless of the temperament of your Pug, our selection has what you need to balance control and comfort. Sign up for Doggie Deals By signing up, you will receive an email every week with new deals only for Mimi's Doggie Deals subscribers. We believe that your dog is a reflection of yourself. We believe that you have really great taste. Learn About.

But at the moment, they need your guidance. For now, this includes sleeping next to you for the first few weeks, maybe even longer. Just have their crate or bed close to wherever you sleep. Our articles on sleeping through the night and establishing a nighttime routine will give you extra tips on getting through this phase. A puzzle toy or Kong will work great at making them feel like you leaving them is actually something quite fun. Potty training All new puppy parents expect potty training to be on the cards. It will help to remember your Boxer pup is a bit of a goofball. For now, we definitely want to let your pup get used to you and settle into their new home. Teach your puppy about surfaces — Different surfaces can feel strange to pups. Use surfaces like grass, moss, paving and sand. Basically, make their tail wag and we bet yours will too. Teach your Boxer their name. Teach your Boxer puppy to sit. Remember what we said about Boxers and their jumping? Recall — Trust us. Preventing resource guarding Resource guarding is where your dog fiercely protects something they have and will do everything they can to keep hold of it. Dogs can resource guard food, a toy, even a person. You can do this by teaching them that hands and touch can be a good thing. As always, back up your soft touches with some treats. Remember that consent is also a thing with dogs! Never force your Boxer to be handled or pick them up against their wishes. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. They love spending time with their owners and letting their playful and fun characters shine through. They are eager to please and very loyal dogs. Originally Boxers were bred to be working dogs, which is why they have such high exercise needs and energy to spare! Common health problems in Boxers Boxers are intelligent dogs who are very loyal to their families. Sadly, like many other purebred dogs, they are prone to certain conditions. If you are thinking of buying a Boxer puppy , make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by certain conditions. Some of the conditions Boxers may develop include: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS — this can cause severe breathing problems in some Boxers with shorter faces. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Eye problems — such as corneal ulcers due to the shape of their skulls and prominence of the eyes. Heart problems — such as cardiomyopathy or aortic stenosis. Before breeding, parents should be screened. Skin problems - such as warts, skin tags, skin allergies and soreness in skin folds around the face skin fold dermatitis. Certain cancers. If you want to minimise the risk of your dog getting problems, you can read our advice on choosing a pedigree dog. Caring for your boxer Boxers are fun and active dogs who can be high maintenance due to their exercise needs. If you love getting out and about walking, they could be a good breed for you! A large secure garden is a must if you have a Boxer so they have plenty of space to blow off steam. Boxers can be very boisterous so do better with an experienced and patient! Boxers and barking Your Boxer is likely to make noise and how much they do make will be down to their training and personality. Boxers are naturally very good guard dogs and so are more likely to bark to make their owners aware of any comings and goings around the home. Training and socialisation Boxers are clever dogs but can be boisterous, so positive, reward-based training from a young age is really important. Boxers mature a lot slower than other breeds, so having a large amount of puppy energy in such a big dog can be challenging for some owners. You need to handle your Boxer with a firm but fair attitude and make sure you are patient and consistent. They can be boisterous so make sure you train them not to jump up at people from a young age. Boxers love human company so can develop separation anxiety if left alone. If they are alone or bored, they like to chew which means your furniture and belongings will be at risk! Exercise Boxers are very high energy, active dogs who love playing and being involved in everything going on. They keep their puppy attitude longer than most dogs so you might find your Boxer rarely has a calm moment at home! Your Boxer will need a minimum of two hours exercise every day. This should be split into a few walks with plenty of opportunities for sniffing around and exploring. You should also give your Boxer plenty of time to exercise off lead somewhere secure so they can have a good run around. On top of this, your Boxer will also need regular, short training sessions. They will also need lots of playtime and free time in the garden to do what they want. Grooming Boxers are fairly low maintenance when it comes to grooming. They have short fur which only needs a weekly brush to keep it in good condition. As with any dog, you should expect your Boxer to shed throughout the year, more so in spring and autumn. A regular hoover should be enough to keep on top of it. Due to the excess skin around their faces, Boxers are at risk of developing a condition called skin fold dermatitis. Boxers and children Generally speaking, Boxers are good around children of all ages given the right training. An adult only home or one with teenagers is better for a Boxer. Always supervise your dog with children and vulnerable adults. Puppy socialisation classes are a great way to get your pup used to new dogs. Early socialisation will help your dog get along well other dogs as an adult. They may get along OK with a cat they have grown up with, but you should always supervise your Boxer with smaller pets. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your Boxer should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. Try to feed your dog at similar times every day as they like routine. Remember to leave a gap between eating and exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Get ready with the ear plugs, because Boxers are known for loud snoring! Boxers originated in Germany in the s so are considered a fairly new breed. Getting a Boxer Do plenty of research before getting a Boxer. These playful and lively dogs keep their puppy ways well into their adult years so need an understanding owner with plenty of time and patience! Boxers can be really loving in the right household and will love spending time with you. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Boxer. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Boxers are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. This will affect everything from how comfortable he is eating, to bacteria in the bowl and also has a direct impact on the risk of developing bloat an issue with this breed. Size, height, material and overall design all matter. Read more about the best food and water bowls for Boxers Bed or Mat Boxers love to take over the sofa, make claim to their human's favorite chair or stretch out on the floor. We recommend a 6 food leash or retractable for house training Boxer puppies. You'll want to keep him close to lead him to and keep him in the exact designated area and to have him close to give immediate praise and reward. A short leash is also best when training your Boxer to heel, since his proper positioning is to your left and right by your side. A longer leash, or one that can extend out, is great for allowing your Boxer to run and have some freedom, when deemed safe. In regard to a collar or harness, this breed typically has strong enough neck and shoulder muscles to do okay with a collar. However, if your Boxer tends to launch himself forward or off to the side quite often when on leash, play it safe and get him a harness. This will remove the issue of pressure being applied straight to the neck and instead it will be displaced on a Boxer's stronger shoulders, chest and back. An ID tag is a must. Though your Boxer can tend to stay close and you're on-point in regard to not letting him off leash, it's just not worth the risk. Choose a stainless steel tag that is weather resistant and will be durable enough that the engraving does not wear down. It's suggested to put more than one type of contact info for someone to return your Boxer cell, address, email. The Right Toys It's best to think of toys as tool. Which ones are going to perform to meet the needs of your Boxer puppy or dog? All toys should serve a specific function. If not, you mind as well toss them or your Boxer may already have figuratively done that by ignoring them. And most toys cannot meet all of a dog's needs at one time though some can have a duel purpose. The main reasons for certain toys include: Teething, chewing urges, entertainment to stay busy especially when home alone , and owner interaction. Read more about choosing the best toys for a Boxer Brushes Boxers have short, dense coats that will shed mostly into themselves, rather than leave a mess on the floor. This is great for your house, but not so much in terms of health for the coat itself. Though Boxers can enter shedding seasons depending on where you live , most still or entirely shed minor to moderate amounts throughout the year. You will want to routinely brush the coat from head to tail at least once per week. During times of heavier shed, use a tool specifically to pull out dead hairs. Brushing has several benefits: It pulls out hairs that have shed but fallen back. If these are left, they can block natural air flow. It distributes natural body oils It removes fine dirt and debris Is healthy for the hair follicles, leading to better re-growth fur is in a constant renewal cycle The best brushes for Boxer dogs: For the type of coat that a Boxer has, the best brush will be a quality bristle brush. Be sure that it has a sturdy handle, is sized well for your hand, and has proper tension it won't do much good if it simply glides over the surface. For times of shedding, when you need to pull out any dead hairs, use a grooming tool that reaches deep down, latches onto hairs and brings them up and out. Dental Care Items Of all the supplies you might possibly get for your Boxer puppy or dog, do not overlook dental care items. What can happen: Plaque builds up on a dog's teeth every second of the day and chewing on treats and toys even great dental treats just doesn't get it all off. Within 3 days, plaque starts to harden into tartar. It encases the teeth and travels under the gum line. It eats away at the enamel of the teeth, causing decay and rot. Infection can travel up into the sinuses or even throughout the body, causing sepsis. Decay causes teeth to loosen and eventually fall out. And of course, this all happens comes at the cost of quite a bit of pain for a dog. The American Veterinary Dental College reports that periodontal disease is the most common preventable clinical condition in both cats and dogs. Without proper care, most dogs have some level of periodontal disease by the age of 3 years old; at this stage, there are not enough signs of unknowing owners to take steps other than bad breath yet can lead to damage to internal organs. What to do: Take measure to ensure excellent oral hygiene with your Boxer dog. Brush your Boxer's teeth with a quality toothbrush. Use an appropriately sized, 3 sided brush. Use an effective toothpaste human paste is toxic, look for a canine product that tastes good and works well to remove plaque. Don't be surprised when a good paste does not foam; they are not meant to since dogs are supposed to swallow the product. Offer one effective dental treat each day. We highly recommend Greenies; these are simply the best and are an accepted product of the Veterinary Oral Health Council. Think about using a water supplement that works to kill bacteria and help prevent plaque. Be sure that it does not contain a drying agent and tasteless ones work best. Bathing, Coat Supplies Everything that you use on the coat shampoo, conditioner, spray will either be beneficial to a Boxer or detrimental. You will want to have a really good shampoo that not only cleans great, but does so with the right pH balance to avoid over-drying and without harsh chemicals. The conditioner that you use needs to coat hairs without being so oily that residue remains which can clog skin pores. The coat should be protected with a spritz. A leave-in spray offers some great benefits: It smells great, protects the coat from static, contact friction and outdoor elements particularly the sun. Though, even with dogs that are outside much of the day and are super active, you can't depend on this to keep the nails short enough. If you want to do this at home, we recommend an electronic filer. It's much easier than clipping. Nose - A dog's nose is naturally pretty vulnerable to all of the elements it encounters. From arid air to cold winds to sun exposure. A big mistake is to only put something on the nose once it starts to look really dry or start peeling, because while a good product can indeed heal a chapped or cracked nose, it's better to be ahead of the game and prevent it in the first place. Every month or so, apply a quality nose butter and then keep it on hand for when you need to apply it more often, which is typically in the dead of winter and in during long, hot summers. Paws - You don't want to baby the paws, because they toughen up as a puppy and then dog walks on a variety of surfaces. However, if they become damaged this puts you back several steps and can even morph into serious issues. This is why a quality paw wax should be part of the supplies you have for your Boxer, it's a vital part of year-round paw care. Look for a good wax that allows the paws to breath and is absorbed quickly in just a couple of minutes. Car Restraint or Seat If you'd buckle up your child, there should be no hesitation to buckle up your Boxer. To not do this is to risk his safety. There are over 16, car accidents per day in the U. No matter how good of a driver you are, you just can't guarantee that someone won't crash into you or that road or weather conditions won't cause something to happen. So, of all the possible supplies that you might get for your Boxer, this one can literally save lives. There are some great options that are easy to use, can actually help with motion sickness and are comfortable for a Boxer puppy or larger, older adult dog. Read more about finding the best car seat or belt for a Boxer dog. Basic First Aid Supplies There are a few basic essentials that every owner should have on hand in the case of injury or emergency. If you've ever looked into this, you may have found some pretty extensive lists; and that's a shame because you don't need half of those things. Chances are, you'll never find yourself searching through your supplies as you try to set broken bones; things like this should be saved for the animal hospital. However, dogs do commonly swallow things that they should not according to the Pet Poison Hotline of the ten top breeds that they received calls about, the Boxer places at 8. You should always be prepared for this. Also, there can be insect bites, something in the eye and small scraps and cuts. Read more about which first aid items you should have for a Boxer dog Outer Gear - Optional, Based on Needs Many Boxers do just fine without any sort of additional layers via jackets or coats. However, some don't. Puppies, senior dogs, or those that are ill or recovering may have an intolerance to the cold. Additionally, just about any otherwise healthy dog can need some help during super harsh weather. If your Boxer is having a hard time in the winter and this is interfering with meeting exercise requirements or is getting in the way of house training, you may want to check into this. If so, read more about clothing for Boxer dogs. Supplements - Optional, Based on Needs If you are feeding your Boxer a high quality food, vitamins and minerals are already added to the mix. However, if you are offering a mainly home cooked diet which is great , you have to be the one to add in a complete vitamin and mineral supplement. So You Want A Boxer? Mar 17, Jun 22, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. So you want a Boxer? I personally have a soft spot for Boxers thanks to fond childhood memories. Both were fawn colored and great with kids. One of my pet sitting clients was also a black brindle colored Boxer who loved to play catch me if you can in his yard. His name was Bogart and he was the most beautiful Boxer I have ever seen, and I swear he was aware of his good looks! Known as brachycephalic dogs, their nasal passages are much shorter than those of dogs with long snouts. That makes them more prone to overheating on hot summer days than dogs with regularly sized nasal passages. The same applies to tail docking. Besides a more natural look, undocked Boxers with a full tail are also better swimmers and can communicate more effectively with other dogs and humans too. It simply means teaching your Boxer to follow rules that are important to you. For example, no pulling on walks , not being allowed on furniture, no jumping on guests, waiting for your OK to eat, not racing through an open door, etc. They enjoy being close to their humans, including adults and children. For instructions, check out our blog post 21 Dog Training Commands. Boxers Are Classified As Working Dogs Did you know that thanks to their courage, strength and stamina, Boxers were originally used to hunt wild boar and bears?