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Although you may not realize how or why your poodle feels threatened, if your dog senses danger, biting is a common response. Somewhere down the line, it figured out that biting does the trick. A chocolate Toy Poodle eating from a ceramic bowl What to do if Your Poodle is Biting The first thing to do if your poodle is biting is to pinpoint the cause of the biting. Refer to the bulleted list above to see if you can figure out the source of the behavior. The Best Ways to Stop a Poodle from Biting In no particular order, here are the six best ways to stop a poodle from biting. Buy Plenty of Chew Toys! One of the best things you can do to stop your poodle from biting is to make sure you have plenty of chew toys for it to choose from! This is especially important if your poodle is in the teething stage. Eventually, your poodle will connect the dots and realize that not biting results in a treat or praise. This will go a long way to stop your poodle from biting! Once your poodle realizes that you make the rules, it will be much easier to get your poodle to obey your wishes. Bring Your Poodle Around Other Dogs Another great way to stop your poodle from biting is by encouraging it to play with other dogs. If they bite too hard, the other dog will act more aggressively, so they quickly learn how to bite and how not to bite when in a play situation. A Tan Poodle sitting on an outdoor lounge. Keep Your Poodle Relaxed Keeping your poodle calm is another excellent way to stop it from biting. You can do this by leaving it alone for a while or putting it in its crate for a short period of time until it calms down. According to Whole Dog Journal, you should never punish your dog for biting. Instead of punishing your poodle, you should reinforce positive behavior and try the subtle training techniques mentioned in the previous section. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. They were bred for hunting so they have an instinctual nature to retrieve and hunt. This makes them high-energy dogs that can easily get bored if not trained properly. The aggressive Poodle is a rare sight because they are very friendly with other people and animals around the home. Poodles are also intelligent, but they are very stubborn, and this stubbornness sometimes brings them trouble. Poodles do have a habit of biting and nibbling from a young age, but this behavior is not aggressive in its nature. If you mess up with their training or influence other negative factors, you might end up with a Poodle that bites. Why Do Poodles Bite? There are a few reasons why a Poodle may bite. Teething Around the 4 — 8 week period, the Poodle puppy will start teething. Just like any dog, the teething period follows a lot of biting and nipping. Protective Instinct If your Poodle feels that it is in danger, it will start biting. This is a protective behavior and usually means that your pup is in danger. It can also happen when someone goes near its food or territory. Attention Seeking Everyone wants a little attention throughout the day. Your dog will jump on you or bark to get some attention. It will start biting if it notices that that grabs your attention. Even if a little cute, this Poodle biting behavior should be stopped with training. Overstimulation Opposite to lack of attention is too much attention. If you play with your Poodle too much and get it overexcited it may start biting. This is why games like tug-of-war are not recommended for puppy aggression. Lack Of Exercise Poodles are high-energy dogs and they need their exercise. Energy build-up can cause anxiety and aggression in a dog. Expressing Emotion If your pup feels threatened or afraid it may react with aggression and biting. Things like thunderstorms, or unknown people entering the house may trigger your dog. You will notice it showing its teeth and excessively barking before going for the bite. Medical Problems Poodles bite when they are faced with health issues. Local or generalized pain will cause aggression and biting in your Poodle. It is important to notice the signs of disease along with the excessive biting and contact the vet as soon as possible. Playing The Poodles will bite each other while growing up as part of their socialization. Play fighting is a big factor in learning how to control their bite force and not hurt anyone incidentally. Just make sure to properly train your puppy during this phase. Early Training And Socialization Poodles are intelligent dogs and this makes them easy to train and teach. You should use this trait to train your dog from an early age. But Poodles are known to be stubborn so you need to be patient and persistent. It is also important to let your Poodle be around its mother for the first 8 weeks. She will help remove the bad habits from your pup and discipline it when needed. You can start socializing around the age of 3 — 12 weeks. Slowly introduce it to new people and animals in your home. Then take it to the dog park when it will meet more of them. This is even higher than the bite force of a Belgian Malinois. Poodle puppies learn bite inhibitions from their mom and siblings from the early days of their life. In time your dog will know how hard to clench its jaw to not hurt them. You can also train your puppy yourself. If you want to keep yourself or your furniture free of dog bite marks, a nice chewy toy will do the job for your pup. The best time to get a chew toy is during the teething period of your Poodle. This is around the age of weeks. Chew toys are great for older dogs as well. They are there when the dog wants to play but they also help with cleaning their teeth. Your furniture will also be very thankful. Reinforce Positive Behavior Training is a great way to stop Poodle biting. It needs discipline and work. But dogs also need love and affection. This is why you should use positive reinforcement when training your dog. Whenever your Poodle does good in the training you need to encourage that positive behavior. In time, your Poodle will associate the right behaviors with the treats and praise and will try to do better every time. Calm Your Poodle If you want to know how to train a Poodle not to bite, you first need to know how to spot the warning signs. Whenever dogs are getting ready to attack, there are a few signs they make. You will notice your Poodle getting stiff with its ears pinned back and hackle raised. It will also be showing its teeth, and start growling and barking. Once you notice these symptoms, you should start diffusing the situation. Be calm and see if you can remove the reason that is making it upset. You may also exit the room slowly and let it cool off by itself. For a dog that is chronically aggressive, consider using calming medication like valerian root. If you want to avoid having an aggressive Poodle at home, you need to make sure that you are the leader of that pack. You do this by establishing your dominance. You need to establish this during the young puppy days when the pup is still learning. Make your Poodle understand that you will let it for a walk or feed it at a set time that you decide, rather than whenever it wants. There are people who can help you with the biting Poodle. You should first visit your vet to see if anything is wrong with your pup healthwise. You should also look for any symptoms and signs of illness in your dog before taking it to the vet. If you think the problem is more behavioral, you can hire a professional dog trainer. They will help with training the dog from an early age, or with an older dog that was not trained properly. But with a bit more work and time, you can train your older Poodle not to bite. If you are dealing with older mean Poodles, the first thing you need to do is to assert dominance. This will make it respect you and follow your lead. If your Poodle has problems with anxiety, you can enroll it in an obedience class. That way the Poodle can socialize and learn from other dogs and people. You can also talk to your vet or hire a professional dog trainer. In time you will teach your new Poodle that biting is not acceptable. Conclusion — Do Poodles Bite? Poodles are a great dog breed to have as a family pet. They are loving, playful, and very intelligent. But they can be a problem because of their biting nature. A Poodle will start biting from an early age as a way of socializing with its siblings and with you. The biting will increase during the teething period and in some specific cases. These include attention seeking, protectiveness, lack of exercise, anxiety, stress, or illness. Your job as a dog owner is to stop this bad behavior. You should start with early training and socialization. Establish dominance and be strict, but also reward good behavior and calm your dog. You can also get a chew toy or talk to a vet or a professional dog trainer for help. Remember that even if Poodles are known to bite more, with a caring owner they can be the perfect pet. It is more common to see a Toy Poodle growling and biting, rather than a standard one. This is because Toy Poodles are small and they are more likely to be mistreated by bigger animals or people. Are Poodles stubborn? Poodles are known for two things: their intelligence, and their stubbornness. Their intelligence makes them easy to train as they pick up on things easier. But their stubbornness can make training a pain sometimes. Consistency and persistence are key. Should you punish your Poodle for biting? Instead, you should know what do Poodles bite for and try to solve that problem together. Train and socialize together and the biting will stop in time. Final Thoughts The Causes of Poodle Biting Poodles do not really bite because they just feel like it — there are actually some reasons that prompt them to bite. This biting problem of poodles is more pronounced in their breed compared to others. Toy poodles in particular have a higher propensity for biting than their counterparts. But with proper poodle training, they can actually become some of the most well trained dog breeds in the world. Poodles will not bite if this is something they have learned not to do. So, going back to the high rate of biting that is common in the nature of poodles. Because it is not a breed that is expected to do anything more than just be a cute pet, it can learn to be stubborn and be unresponsive to others. They are actually quite smart, but if you combine that impressive intellect with strong instincts that are left untrained, you can be sure that poodles will not only be turning their noses up to you, but giving you a good bite as well to show that you cannot control them! This video reveals the secret to having well-behaved toy poodles and how to train your new puppy to stop biting! Start them Young Because poodles are smart dogs , they are also highly trainable and are capable of learning that biting is never a part of what is known as acceptable behavior. Training a poodle to avoid biting will begin by giving the poodle many opportunities to socialize while it is still a puppy. It is simpler to teach puppies than it is to train older dogs since they have not yet developed negative habits or poor behaviors of their own. It is possible, however, to teach obedience to a dog that is already an adult. As a poodle dog owner, you also need to know that it is not good to take the poodle away from its mother earlier than eight weeks old. The time it spends in the company of its mother is also a learning opportunity — one in which the poodle grows to have an early understanding that it is not right to bite and should control all of its urges to show that it is more dominant than other dogs or people. Practice your Poodle to Socialize Once the eight weeks it spends with its mother has passed, you can then work on socializing the poodle with other dogs and members of your family. You can also consider signing up your poodle for a number of classes and play opportunities that will help teach it to become bite-averse and friendlier; puppy day care sessions are a good opportunity for that. In order to socialize, they bite each other, and they also attack each other if they feel threatened or if they are just protective of their owners. As a result, starting socialization between the ages of three and twelve weeks is critical. If you wait much longer, it may be more difficult to socialize your dog. As an owner, make it a point to show calmness when dealing with your poodle while at the same time showing it that you are welcoming to it. There are many ways to prevent your poodle from biting. Do not Punish your Poodle It is a no-no to scold poodle puppies for the sole reason that they are too young to actually know better. At the same time, scolding a poodle pup will result in an early exposure to aggression on your part — something that it will eventually mimic as it deals with others, and will become the starting point for many behavioral problems that last in the long term. Regardless of how painful the bite is, resist the urge to smack your pet. Biting becomes more frequent and severe when the dog is subjected to physical punishment. Getting advice from an expert is always preferable than getting it from a layperson. If the poodle bites another dog — whether that dog is a puppy or a much bigger dog — put your foot down and send the message across: this is something that is not allowed. If the poodle is showing signs of wanting to bite, give it a toy that it can bite instead of other dogs. As a result, before you quit biting for good, you need to develop excellent habits for your Poodle. Teaching your dog to control biting force is one technique to keep them from doing so. Puppies and their mothers are at risk of being bitten by the dog when they are playing. It is common for the mother or other dogs to howl if the bite is too strong. The same may be done in the effort to teach biting inhibition. You should be aware, however, that this may agitate some pups and exacerbate the biting. Although toy poodle bite force is not that strong compared to Pitbull and other breeds with lockjaws, you should still train your poodle to be disciplined all the time to avoid possible problems. Reinforce Positive Behavior If it bites you, make a soft but clear whimpering sound so it knows that you were hurt by what it did. This smart dog will take its cue and, given that you are its loving owner, will strive not to bite you again. At the same time, this is how the poodle also shows being hurt when it is on the receiving end of pain. If you do this, your dog will learn that excellent conduct is rewarded with food, which may lead to more frequent displays of positive behavior. Your dog is more likely to persist with this unhealthy behavior as a consequence. When you include repercussions, the dynamic changes. The more often this occurs, the more your poodle will associate biting with items they like being deprived of. Playtime, cookies, or any other reward you take from your poodle when they bite is more likely to cause them to quit their negative behavior. It is important, however, that you do not go beyond in terms of punishment. If this is a recurring problem, try dangling a tasty reward from your feet while walking the poodle. Using this method, your poodle will be more interested in the reward and less likely to jump on you. When using this strategy, you must exercise caution when providing rewards to avoid reinforcing bad conduct. For example, it is advisable not to use the reward shortly after the dog has leaped on your feet. If you do this, your dog is likely to associate the act of pouncing on your feet with a reward and continuing doing it. The ideal strategy is to dangle a reward at the beginning of your stroll in order to teach your dog the proper stance and not to promote any specific activity. Keep your Poodle Relax and Comfortable When a dog is nervous, fatigued, or worried, it may attack. Allowing the dog time to relax and cool down is the greatest remedy. Taking the dog to their box and giving them some alone time is one option. Dogs, on the other hand, must not associate their crates with penalties. You may avoid this by having them cool down in a new location each time. The only way to avoid poodle attacks and biting is to not let them have their way. Structure is essential for a well-behaved dog. Ensure that the dog understands that you will take them for a walk, play with them, or feed them at the appropriate time, rather than whenever they want. Your poodle will be more likely to learn and follow simple instructions if you do so first. A dog that is obedient to its master is more likely to break this negative behavior than a dog that does not respect its master. As a result, from the time your poodles are pups, work on instilling the idea that you are the one in charge of the household. Waiting any longer will just make it more difficult to maintain the new habits in the long run. Poodle Biting When Your Dog is Much Older There are also some older poodle dogs that still demonstrate a desire to bite or just nip other people and dogs. When this happens, you need to address the problem with firmness. Do not let it dictate when it wants to eat or play. Spend time teaching it some basic commands, and persist until it grudgingly shows that it can obey. You also need to avoid playing physical games like tug of war, wrestling, and chasing. This is because these games can result in the poodle biting you in an attempt to establish its dominance. If the poodle is anxious and starts biting as a result, you can probably enroll it in obedience classes so they can socialize with other furry friends and have a way to address their aggression problems in a highly controlled environment. If the biting problem in your poodle persists, more drastic measures in the form of a dog expert may be necessary. You can also think about visiting your vet just to rule out any possible health concerns that may be a cause of its biting. Teaching your poodle not to bite and addressing aggression issues may sometimes be a challenge to a dog owner. But if you persist at it you will revel in how obedient and well-behaved a poodle can actually be. Poodles will not stop biting unless you train them not to bite. That is why it is important to train them from a young age to avoid biting problems, especially at adult age. Do miniature poodles bite? Miniature and toy poodles bite because it is a defensive instinct of a dog. They also bite when they are playing or are just bored for not having any activities. Expect that you would experience seeing your toy poodle growling and biting other dogs or people if you will not train it not to bite. Are miniature poodles aggressive? Fear-based aggressiveness is more common in toy and miniature Poodles. As a result of their tiny size, they are especially vulnerable to abuse from youngsters. It is harder to socialize an adult Poodle with fear issues, but a good dog trainer may assist you in the process. Why do poodles bite? Then why do poodles lash out? Inexperienced dog owners may mistakenly believe their dog is acting hostile for no apparent cause, leading to unwarranted retaliation. Punishment has a high risk of making the problem worse. To keep his bite strength in check, your dog does this. In the absence of chew toys, he may take to biting on whatever is available, even your fingers! In addition, biting is a way for the dog to get to know other dogs and participate in their social circles. If the pup feels threatened in any way, he may bite to defend himself. This may also happen when other pups or adult dogs intrude on his domain. Biting is a way for them to protect their territory in this situation. Are poodles stubborn? Poodles are often used as a fashion item by their owners. Due to their obstinate and unresponsive nature, poodles might be more difficult to train. As a result of their high intelligence, poodles have a tendency to bite people who are in positions of power. Your dog is teething and will seek for anything to chew on to alleviate their discomfort. Stop your poodle from biting by following the advice in this article. Do you have some unique and effective way to train your poodle biting other people or dogs? We would love to hear from you! Share it with us by commenting down below! He is very passionate about training and caring for dogs, that is why he started this website. Want a free 5 part dog training video series? Adult Poodles will chew to help cope with Separation Anxiety and ease boredom. Don't worry; No matter how old your Poodle is , or whether your have a Toy, Miniature or Standard, help is here! Puppies that Chew One of the reasons that Poodle puppy will chew, even before teething has begun, is to explore the world. A puppy will use their mouth as opposed to a hand to figure out…. While this is most vital during the first year, since a dog of any age may mouth an object it is recommended to periodically performed checks of all accessible areas and remove anything that could be a potential chocking hazard. In this way, you can be 1 step ahead, but not even allowing the temptation to chew on these things to manifest. Teething Poodles will experience teething from about 4 months until 8 months. Do keep in mind that some Poodles are late bloomers and teething may last a bit longer. How the Right Toys can Help A puppy must be allowed to chew as much as he wishes, when he is teething. This is a very difficult time for a Poodle puppy, as the urge to relive discomfort is quite overwhelming. It will be your job to supply some of the best possible toys. Take care when you are choosing toys for your pup's collection. Some toys are cheaply put together, the manufacturers splash on some color , give it a cute name and people scoop them up. However, those are the toys that most dogs do not find interesting and you inevitably waste your money and your dog is not being helped. Toys should have 1 or more of the qualities: Is Interactive — Moves or makes noise when chewed. Motivates a puppy - When a puppy receives a reward such as treat release chew toys , he will be more apt to go to it in the future for chewing urges. Has several different types of surfaces — for example rubber knobs on one end to put between teeth when the gums are sore and rope for a different feel that can be manipulated into just the right spot. Is sized correctly so that it is not a struggle to mouth it, but is big enough that's it's safe to chew. Tips to Encourage Approved Chewing Once you have cleared the house of low level items the best that you can and you have a good selection of quality toys, your Poodle may still need a bit of encouragement to chew on them. Here are some tips: 1 Puppies love new objects. Therefore, one trick that works well is to have 2 groups of toys…always keeping 1 available and 1 hidden. Do keep in mind that any toy that your pup has seemed to become very fond of, should not be put away and should always be available. Chew toys should always bring a positive association. However, for chewing issues, this should be followed by a trade. What does this mean? When he accepts the toy, give great praise to teach your pup that chewing on the toy is what makes you proud of him. Sometimes, a puppy can be stubborn, and this is where you must not be shy. Many times this may startle a puppy — this is acceptable. This means that you have captured his attention and can now offer the trade and give him the chew toy. Separation Anxiety Chewing If your Poodle destroys things or chews on objects while you are away, they are most likely expressing their nervousness and anxiety while waiting for you to return. You may also be interested in: Poodle puppy is barking a lot - While some vocalization is normal and expected, read about steps to cut down on barking at night and excessive barking issues. Housebreaking a Poodle puppy - This in one of the biggest hurdles that owners need to deal with. Effective methods for fast learning. Life span of Poodles - Leading causes of death and how long each variety of Poodles live. Poodle Photo Gallery - See beautiful photos of Poodles send in by owners. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. This article is a comprehensive guide on how to go about it. Bite inhibition refers to the process of teaching your poodle how to control the intensity of their bite. If the bite is too hard, the mother or other dogs will let out a yelp to indicate that the bite was painful. You can do this as well when trying to teach bite inhibition. However, you should know that this may aggravate some puppies and make the biting even worse. A great behavioral training course can really help when teaching bite inhibition to your dog. I found a fantastic training system called Brain Training for Dogs. If you need any behavioral training at all for your dog, I would highly recommend this course! Check it out here 3. Take the same example. When this happens consistently, your poodle will start associating biting with an end to things they like. Your poodle is more likely to stop his bad behavior to get more playtime, treats, or anything else you decide to take from them when they bite. This process is known as negative reinforcement. However, you need to be careful not to go overboard with the punishment. If the dog is constantly biting on your fingers and feet around the house, consider giving them something different to chew on. Without a doubt, my dog Angus enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I purchase for him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month for any size dog. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds are donated to local animal shelters. Check out the Barkbox website here to discover why Barkbox will make your dog as happy as mine. I recently wrote this article on the best toys for poodles. With this approach, your poodle will be more attracted to the treat and is less likely to pounce on you. If you do this, chances are your dog will relate pouncing on your feet with the treat and keep doing it. The best approach is to try dangling the treat at the start of your walks to train them on the correct positioning and not as a way to encourage any behavior. The best solution for this is to give the dog some time to relax and calm down. One way to do this is to take the dog to their crate and give them some alone time. You can prevent this from happening by choosing different spots for their cool-down sessions. Does it happen when the dog has been indoors all day? Does your poodle bite only in the presence of other dogs? Or does it happen all the time? The solution for this is to take the dog outside and allow them to run around for a while. Alternatively, you can walk your poodle to give some much-needed exercise. Dogs that bite in the presence of other dogs may be marking their territory or be threatened by the other dogs. You can gradually stop this habit by socializing your dog so he gets used to other dogs. When you do this, your dog will start to understand which good habits earn them treats and may be motivated to show positive behaviors more often. Again, this will make it more likely for you to achieve success and get your poodle to stop biting. To ensure your dog behaves well, you need to establish structure. When you do so, your poodle will be more likely to pick up basic commands and obey. Waiting longer will only make it harder for the new practices to stick. However, as painful as the bite may be, fight the temptation to hit your furry friend. Physical punishment stresses the dog out and may cause even more aggression, thereby making the biting worse. A professional is in a better position to advise you on the best way forward. Socialize Your Poodle Dogs that rarely get the opportunity to hang out with other dogs may also tend to bite a lot. Waiting longer than this can make it harder to socialize your dog. There are several ways you can socialize your poodle to prevent biting. If this is your first time owning a poodle, this may be among the questions going through your mind. Like most dog breeds, poodles tend to bite a lot in the puppy stage. In fact, poodles are known to have a higher tendency of biting as compared to other dog breeds. Why Do Poodles Bite? So why do poodles bite anyway? Your dog does this to control his bite strength. This type of biting is common when the dog feels ignored. Furthermore, biting is a way for the dog to explore and join the social life of other dogs. Defensive instinct Biting is also a self-defense reflex for dogs. This also happens when his territory is invaded by other puppies or adult dogs. In such a case, biting is their way of defending their territory. Poodles are Naturally Stubborn Another possible cause for biting in poodles is lack of training. Many owners adopt a poodle as an accessory. In Summary Biting is normal for poodles, especially in the puppy stage. During this time, your dog is teething and looking for anything to bite on to soothe their sore gums. Your poodle may also be biting due to aggression, as a way of seeking attention or simply exhibiting normal dog behavior. Utilize the tips mentioned in this article to help stop your poodle from biting. If you try all the DIY steps and nothing works, consider hiring a behavioral specialist or certified trainer. Working with an expert will make the process easier and increase your chances of success. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Lemonade Pet Insurance : Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer! Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price. BarkBox : Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters. I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Brent Hartman I'm Brent Hartman. I've been a dog lover my entire life and have owned many animals over the years. When my black lab Angus passed away, I was looking for another friend to share my life with. As a result of my research, I've come to love poodles and wanted to share some of what I've learned with you. Whether you're looking to adopt a poodle, or already own one, I created Poodle report to be the ultimate guide to help you find the answers you need. Recent Posts.

I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! Size Medium Hip Dysplasia: This is a life-threatening genetically inherited disease caused by a defect in the joints of the hip bones. Fractures can also lead to hip dysplasia, and this state can be painful. There are therapies to cure this, but the dog might get lameness or arthritis if the condition worsens. Flatulence: Black and White English Bulldogs respire through their mouths, so they possess high levels of flatulence. Dogs are prone to obesity, so food intake has to be observed. This would generate a problem in breathing to the extent of total obstruction in breathing. Patellar Luxation: This condition is the slipping of the knee cap from the position in their legs. Some obvious signs include the dog kicking to set the knee cap back in its place while walking or running. Patellar luxation can be cured if the indications are mild or only one leg is affected. Juvenile Renal Dysplasia: This is a deficiency in the functioning of the kidney, transmitted genetically. There are no tests to identify this condition. Still, you can find symptoms such as frequent urination, weight loss , vomiting, excessive thirst, and lethargy in your dog. Dry Eye: Dry eye is a severe condition caused due to the deficient production of tears. The affected eye might look dry or have a blue haze. Therapies include teardrops or medication. Cherry Eye: The gland below the eyelid will swell, looking like a cherry. This situation might need surgery to eliminate the infected gland. Entropion: Eyelashes turn inward and your pet rubs his eyes incessantly due to irritation. Your Bulldog will need surgery to cure entropion. Portosystemic Liver Shunt: This is a situation in which the liver does not get a blood supply to filter it. As the name suggests, the blood that flows to the liver will be shunted. You can cure this disease through surgery. Glaucoma: Glaucoma is an eye condition that affects both dogs and humans and needs medical attention. Signs such as squinting, pain, watery eyes, and redness can indicate glaucoma, leading to blindness. Regular health tests can aid in recognizing and curing glaucoma at an early stage. It causes tartar build-up on the teeth, infection of the roots and gums, and in severe situations, loss of teeth and damage to the kidneys. Parasites: Black and White English Bulldogs can be infested with bugs, fleas, worms , and ticks that can get into their systems through contaminated soil, unclean water, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. It can also be transferred to humans. Symptoms include pain, discomfort, and even death. It would be ideal for feeding a puppy thrice a day and reducing it to twice daily as the dog matures. Black and White English Bulldogs need a nutritious diet and special care depending on their health. It is advised to consult a vet before forming a diet plan. Also, check the treats and calorie consumption as they are prone to obesity. They are not fit for severely cold climates either. However, they can adjust well to apartment living, and a backyard is not a necessity. A Black and White English Bulldog is the most suitable option if you can spend enough time with them, even by sleeping or sitting together. Because of their narrow hips, they face difficulty in giving birth naturally. Most of the Bulldogs will require a c-section for delivery without any significant danger. So, breeding an English Bulldog should be carefully done after genetically examining the dogs. And lastly, the ticked pattern is when spots or flecks of black fur are scattered on a mostly white-colored Bulldog. This is actually not on their coat but a pigment on their skin and it may worry some dog owners that their dog is developing an allergy or a skin affection. It is not considered a disease but a reaction to some conditions. The black spots on their skin may be a result of hyperpigmentation that may appear as they grow older. The color may vary from light brown to black and develops in rough areas of thickened and hairless skin. The common cause of this is sun exposure and aging. Constant friction can also cause dull patches in regions like the armpits and under the legs. Black White and brown English Bulldog English Bulldog Black and White and brown There are also English Bulldogs that have brown-colored fur combined with the black and white coat color. This is usually called the Black tri-color Bulldogs. Their eye rims, paw pads, and nose are usually black and the black color is usually interspersed throughout their body. The Black tri-color Bulldog also has some tan color on its face, legs, and chest. For some, the brown color is mixed with black and white brindle patterns. Save Big On Dog Essentials! Welcome to our pack! Black And White English Bulldog temperament and personality In spite of having a bad reputation, the English Bulldogs Black and White coat do not have any aggressive bones in their bodies. Black And White English Bulldogs despite being notorious for their stubborn personalities are calm, good-natured, and people-oriented. Yes, they are lazy but they make up for it by giving lots of affection to their human families. Yes, the English Bulldog White and Black coats can be a great addition to a family with kids and have a proven track record as great companions. And, because of their tendency for having a maternal instinct, the Black And White English Bulldogs are gentle and patient even with rowdy kids. Be it a game of tug-of-war or boisterously running around, they can tolerate whatever young children throw at them. However, the story is different when it comes to other pets. The best way to deal with this problem is to expose them to animals and other pets at a young age so they learn how to be more accepting of the presence of other pets and animals in the house. Black And White English Bulldog training White and Black English Bulldog is not the smartest, in fact, it is ranked number in the smartest dog breed category and 2nd in the most stubborn dog category. Thus, training can be a huge challenge. This is why patience, consistency, and lots of positive reinforcements doggie treats and hugs are essential for training. And, for training to be effective, short but sweet is the key. That means 5 to 10 minutes twice a day is enough. Black And White English Bulldog exercise requirement Belonging to the brachycephalic dog breed category, the Black and White English Bulldog does not need too much exercise. A 20 to 40 minutes walk is sufficient to prevent them from getting obese. Due to their small snouts, they can easily overheat or shiver with cold. Brushing with a soft bristle brush is enough to keep the coat looking fabulous.

For dogs, as with other animals including humans, an important function of play is instruction. Puppies use yelps of pain and refusal to keep playing to instruct each other about the differences between playful mouthing and painful biting. Expose your young dog to other animals and people in a wide range of environments so that normal social situations are less likely to cause fear. You may think you are just teaching your puppy to obey, but you are also teaching him patience. Dogs with poor impulse control are more likely to bite when their wants are not immediately met. Let your dog know this in the same way as a litter of puppies. The earlier you start this process, the better. Play with your puppy and allow her to mouth your hand. As soon as the dog stops mouthing or licks your limp hand, praise her and start the process again. If you sense your puppy is about to bite you again, quickly say "no" or "no bite. This is a great way to use positive reinforcement to teach your puppy that biting is bad. If making your hand uninteresting for play is proving insufficient, employ time-outs. Leave the room for seconds after yelping to make it clear that biting is not a part of play time. Extend the time-out and reduce your threshold for what constitutes a bite as your dog learns. Utilize the same techniques as in the previous step, but also: Substitute a chew toy or bone when your dog begins to mouth your skin. Have the toy at the ready and quickly present it to the dog. He will learn that these are acceptable targets for his mouthing instincts. Distract the dog with a treat in one hand while petting him with the other. This is particularly useful for dogs who tend to mouth or bite when petted. The lack of focus on the petting hand will become normal over time, even if there is not a treat to distract them. Enjoy non-contact play, such as fetch. Show your dog that there are many ways to play that do not involve her mouth on your skin. This simple procedure can not only prevent you from finding yourself with an undesired litter of puppies, but it can also reduce the roaming and fighting tendencies that can cause some dogs to bite. In answer to Anonymous If my children were teething, of course bloody not, for goodness sake. If however my child bit hard then I would tell them off! Firstly when any of my dogs were teething we had a numerous amount of chew toys, also when we play of course they mouth, and feel objects , they wouldnt of been squited for this!!!! And perhaps sometimes they a little too hard, the first thing I do is yelp, Ouch! If however she comes charcging at feet, chasing the children, and biting there legs jumping up like the OP has sugested I would use a water spray. My pup is 9 months old and is a laberbese. Bread as a disibilty dog. She is huge and not a force to beckon with, She is loving, attentive, happy, so soft, and most inportantly a very special pal to our son with special needs. So I would say if you think that spraying a squirt of water at biting is terrible then thats youre choice. Dont presume anything. Mouthing is normal, nipping when playing is ok to a point, taring trousers, running after ankiles and biting is not okay. In answer to Anonymous Aplogies for the spelling, it was a hot sleepless night.! Lastly We all raise animals, like children seeing you want to lump the two together very differantly. A few points come to mind with this post, 1 there is no such breed as a laberbese, am i right in presuming she is a Labrador Retriever x Bernese mountain dog? I can assure you that neither Guide dog puppies or Assistance dog puppies EVER have water squirted at them due to teething, or any other behavior come to think of it! American Pit Bull: Boxer Puppy Biting and Nipping When we talk about Boxer puppies biting children, both younger and older kids, toys or even biting at your feet, what most are actually talking about is nipping. There is a huge difference between the 2 words. A nip is a quick snap of the jaws, it can be done in the air close to a person or it can make skin contact yet it is a pinch type bite that often does not break the skin. Boxer puppies and even older dogs nip, not to attack someone, but to send a warning. The warning is not necessarily that of an impending attack… Boxer puppy nipping is done for one of several reasons: As play — Young pups are used to nipping at their littermates as a form of play and this may carry over as they transition into their new home. If a Boxer puppy is biting a lot, it may be an issue of the dog needing to learn the rules of the home and needing to learn that was used to be acceptable with other pups is no longer acceptable with his humans. A Method of Sending a Message — Boxer dogs of any age may nip for many reasons. Unable to vocalize, the nip is a message. Often it is a low growl, lasting just seconds, with teeth bared. In some cases, there will only be a growl as the dog lowers his back, hunches over and bares his teeth yet does not actually physically bite. On the other hand, an actual bite not a nip is a full force, aggressive action in which the jaws lock down and teeth puncture the skin. The dog intends to inflict injury and the person on the other end often receives it unless thick clothing gets in the way, etc. In the following section we will discuss how to stop a Boxer dog from biting in the sense that the dog is actually nipping and it is not a full force, aggression bite meant to do serious harm. Training to Stop Boxer Puppy to Stop Biting and Nipping Overview Many owners feel, and rightfully so, that a bite is a serious issue and a behavior that needs to be addressed immediately. For this reason, they feel that taking serious action is the only way to stop the behavior… and this is where things can go wrong. And this is because it does not teach the dog what he needs to learn. Yelling, hitting or otherwise intimidating a puppy or dog will only serve to make the dog afraid of his owner. Alternatively, some dogs will see this as a challenge. So, owners must choose: Fear or respect. For a happy, healthy environment in which humans and canines live in peace, the Boxer or any other dog should be taught to respect his humans, not fear them. In addition, for a dog that bites, physically isolating him will stop the problem short term…while the dog is taken away of course he is not biting anyone…. It is a huge mistake to miss out on a chance to train a dog to stop biting. Of course, in the rare chance that a dog is full out biting, causing injury and is clearly dangerously aggressive, the dog should be removed… And measures must be taken to keep the family safe from any potential attacks…but again, this does not relate to puppy nipping, play biting or nipping due to teething, etc. Training a Boxer puppy to stop biting takes a bit of mental will power. You may have heard this before: Ignore the puppy. There is no other way for a dog to interpret this, as it is canine mentality. His humans and any other animals in the home are his pack. Every single pack that exists has a leader. Having a leader is a defining element of a pack. Problems can arise when a dog does not have a clear understanding of who that leader is. Humans begin eating. Two to three minutes pass. Once the dog obeys, a delicious and healthy meal is set down for him. So, once a dog knows that his human is in charge, how does this training stop the Boxer from biting….? When a Boxer understands that his human s are his leader s , being ignored is akin to being rejected by pack. A dog will suddenly be very humbled. He will worry that his pack has turned their backs on him… he will question his behavior and, when done correctly, he will make the connection that his action of biting caused a major problem with his standing in his family…. If you were both on the floor, stand up. If you were holding him, place him down. If you were both sitting on the sofa, rise up. This means zero talking, absolutely no looking in his direction…nothing. As a Boxer puppy works very hard to gain attention of any one in the house, everyone even those who were not bitten should be completely indifferent to the dog. Allow 10 minutes to pass. Now, when you are doing this, 2 minutes may feel like 20, so take a look at the clock and then choose an activity flip through the TV, check your email, get a drink…do whatever you want, but do remain in the house so that your Boxer can see that you are ignoring him and wait it out. After those 10 minutes, it is time to speak to your Boxer, but not engage him in any activity yet. Many times, the puppy will test things out. Simply mull around near your dog, speaking a bit and acting matter-of-fact. Do not give praise. Wait things out for about 5 minutes. If your Boxer does not nip or bite at you, it will be time to go back to the position that you were in when the bite occurred. It is at this time that if your Boxer does not nip at you that praise and attention can be given. If the dog does bite again, the complete ignoring method of training must be done — this means that the dog is testing things to see if it was indeed his nip that caused his temporary outcast from the pack. Dogs , Puppy training Alex Andes Puppy Biting: What's Normal, What's Not, and How to Curb It One of the most common issues we see poor dog training advice given for is puppy biting and mouthiness, so we're going to give you the most standardized professional advice possible for this issue. There's a reason why it's discouraged for non-professionals to give legal or medical advice to strangers on the Internet. At best, their advice could be wrong; at worst, it could it be potentially dangerous. We so wish the same rules applied to dog training advice. Puppies go through at least two fear periods in their first year of life, so when those sensitive puppy brains are involved, it's especially important to follow professional instruction! They go through an uncomfortable teething process that lasts for months. They play hard with their siblings, often using their teeth to successfully instigate play and attention. Herding breed dogs are predisposed to nip, herd, and chase small, fast-moving things. Young children often get the brunt of this behavior. Retrievers are predisposed to picking up and holding anything and everything within reach, including your hands and arms. A word on what to avoid: Above all else, avoid physical punishment when it comes to puppy biting. I have heard people given terrible albeit, well-meaning advice over the years, from squeezing your puppy's mouth shut, to pinning them on their backs, to muzzling them to stop the biting. Physical punishments like this range from silly and ineffective to cruel and downright abusive. In fact, you can create fear and aggression in your dog using these types of methods. So, what should you do about puppy biting? When you bring a puppy into your home, it's your job to create fair, consistent boundaries for unwanted behaviors, including when it comes to teeth on skin. Note: You are not putting your puppy in a time out. That involves way too much time, talking, and attention to be an effective punishment. You are either ignoring the behavior or removing yourself from it. That means play is over, fun is over, attention is over. Be as non-dramatic as possible. If the behavior is hard for you to ignore, go behind a door or baby gate where your puppy does not have access to continue nipping at you. If your puppy tries to nip at you when you return, remove yourself again. You should see a major decrease in the intensity of biting as well as the amount of biting attempts within a few days. An Important Caveat: Some puppies find the act of a person walking away reinforcing. If your puppy seems to enjoy you removing yourself as a game of chase, you can alternatively use the side of your leg not your knee, please! You may have to block them multiple times before they stop trying; don't give up! And most importantly, still avoid yelling or using your hands — bitey puppies tend to find both of these things very exciting. Remember, it's normal for young puppies to explore the world with their mouths. Things to keep in mind: Be sure to give your pup attention and praise when they are behaving nicely! All family members and guests MUST be consistent in order for this to work! Be aware that even doing everything right, this behavior may not go away entirely until months of age. Remember, this is a normal developmental period in puppies. For extra-bitey puppies, or those that are biting after months of age, this blog will help give you some additional tips and recommendations. Why Does This Work? A behavior that doesn't get reinforced will stop. Your pup will learn that we don't react to biting with play, attention, or even a negative reaction. All of these things can be fun for a puppy. Your pup will learn to self-entertain. Once they realize the nipping isn't working, they will eventually redirect themselves onto something else. Your puppy will seek out appropriate ways to get your attention, like offering a "sit" or laying at your feet. A few other suggestions: It's also important to have a management place for your puppy, such as a play pen or baby-gated bathroom. It gives you a break from your puppy, and is a calm place for your puppy to settle down if he gets too wound up. Make sure your puppy has plenty of rubbery teething toys, is getting daily exercise, and is not excessively crated. If his needs are not being met, the nipping will take longer to extinguish. Make sure your puppy is eating three meals a day. Things we may think are punishing, like pushing your puppy away, yelling at him, etc, can be considered fun, play-like behaviors for your puppy and can encourage biting. When doing the above exercise, be as quiet and calm as you can. When should you be concerned about biting in puppies? You should seek out a certified professional if your puppy: Is growling, snapping, or biting when a person comes near a resource. Food, toys, etc Stiffens and stares at the person before biting. Is consistently biting and breaking skin. Barks, growls, or nips not in play at new people entering the home. Snaps or growls at children. What if it's not getting better? Remember, we do not expect this behavior to go away entirely until at least months of age. We also need to take into consideration a dog's breed, social history, and any medical conditions that could be contributing. For example, if a puppy has an intestinal parasite that's depleting their nutritional stores, we often see an uptick in biting. For extra guidance with extremely bitey puppies, or those that are still regularly biting after 6 months of age, check out these additional tips. Need professional guidance on your puppy biting issues? We offer private and group online dog training that's accessible from anywhere in the world. More details here , or contact us.

Introduction Adopting a French Bulldog puppy is a rewarding experience. These adorable pups bring joy, love and companionship to their owners. Not to mention, they are incredibly smart and adaptable to different living situations. If you are searching for a loyal and lovable pet, look no further than the French Bulldog. Do some research, assess your situation, and make sure you are ready for a puppy before you take the plunge. What is a French Bulldog? A French Bulldog is a breed of dog that originated in France. They are short, stocky, and have large ears that have become their trademark. French Bulldogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and playful personalities. They are also incredibly adaptable and can live in a variety of environments. Their cute little faces and big personalities are sure to bring a lot of joy to your life! French Bulldogs make excellent companions, thanks to their lovable personalities, adaptable temperaments, and sweet companionship. Not to mention, these pups are downright adorable! As a bonus, they come in a variety of sizes and colors, including brindle, cream, black, and brown. Regular exercise is also key for French Bulldogs, as they tend to become overweight if not given enough stimulation. During the colder months, consider investing in some cold-weather gear such as booties and a coat, as French Bulldogs can be sensitive to the cold. French Bulldogs make excellent companions and can provide a lifetime of love, loyalty, and companionship. If you are looking for a pup that is smart, loyal, and absolutely adorable, then a French Bulldog is the perfect choice for you. Start by looking in your local area for rescue centers and breeders that have puppies available. If you can, try to meet the parents and get a feel for the environment that the puppies have been raised in. Consider factors such as the size of your home, if you have enough time and energy to give it attention, and if you can afford the necessary veterinary care. When you find the right puppy, make sure you are prepared for it. Gather the items you need before you bring your new companion home such as food, a bed, toys, and a crate. Be sure to set up a good routine to help your new puppy transition into your home. Make sure it has a safe and secure environment with plenty of positive attention. Where to Look for French Bulldog Puppies Free to a Loving Home When looking for French Bulldog puppies free to a loving home, start by searching at animal shelters and rescue organizations. You will be able to find puppies of all ages, or even young adult Frenchies, that need homes. Exploring the Behavior of Our Furry Friends This can save you a lot of money and time in the long run. To find a rescue group near you check online, or ask your veterinarian or local animal shelter for recommendations. Another option is to search online classifieds. Many breeders advertise their puppies through these sites, so it is definitely worth taking a look. Be sure to read the advertisement carefully to make sure the breeder is reputable. Avoid buying puppies from puppy mills, as these puppies are much more likely to come with health and behavior issues. Consider networking with other French Bulldog owners. Ask around and see if anyone knows of a breeder or rescue organization that might have puppies for sale. This is also a great way to get information about the breed and to find out what other people have experienced when caring for their Frenchie. You may just find the perfect puppy for you! How much space do you have for a puppy? Do you have all the necessary supplies? Are you ready to commit to the responsibility of caring for a puppy? Investigate the local laws and regulations on owning a puppy. Have you collected food, a crate, treats, a collar, toys, etc.? Do you have a vet you can go to if needed? Being fully and properly prepared will ensure that your puppy has a good start to life in its new home. This means being able to afford the costs of a puppy which includes food, toys, vet visits, and training , being able to dedicate enough time to the puppy including walks, playtime, and training , and having the necessary accommodations in place for the puppy such as a safe space and toys. You should be prepared to make a long-term commitment to taking care of the puppy, as French Bulldogs can live up to 12 years. Do you have the time and energy to commit to a puppy? Are you able to devote the necessary attention and care to a French Bulldog? Can you afford the costs associated with a puppy? Answering these questions honestly can help you determine if a puppy is the right decision for you. Not only are French Bulldogs incredibly smart and lovable, but their temperaments also make them suitable for a variety of different living situations. Taking the time to prepare for your new pup will help ensure their transition into your home is as smooth as possible. Of course, providing a safe, loving environment for your pup to grow and thrive is paramount. Rest assured that with patience and dedication, you and your pup are sure to have a lifelong bond full of unconditional love and friendship. They make loving and loyal companions who will be happy to keep you company on long walks around the park or lazy days on the sofa. These smart pups are quick to learn and respond well to positive reinforcement training. You can look forward to many happy years with your French Bulldog pup as they tend to form strong bonds with their owners. When considering adopting a Frenchie puppy, it is important to ensure that you are prepared for the task. You will need to take the time to consider your lifestyle and the type of home that you can provide for your pup. You will also need to ensure that you have the proper supplies ready such as a crate, food, toys, and bedding. Once you have a French Bulldog puppy in your home, you will need to make sure you provide them with the love and attention they need to thrive. Spend time with your pup and give them ample opportunities to interact with other dogs and people in order to socialize them. You can also look into training classes or activities to help them reach their full potential. With the right amount of care and dedication, you can look forward to a lifetime of joy with your adorable French Bulldog pup. These dogs are known to adjust to many different living situations, so they can make great companions in any setting. Whether you live in an apartment or a house, they can fit into your lifestyle and become a beloved member of your family. They are incredibly smart, making them easy to train and care for. When you are looking for French Bulldog puppies, make sure you research the temperaments of the puppies you are considering. While French Bulldogs have an adaptable nature, you will still want to make sure the pup you choose is a good match for your lifestyle. Be sure to spend lots of quality time with the pup before you commit to adopting them. Doing these things will help ensure that you find the perfect pup and make the most of your new companion. These endearing little bundles of joy will make a great addition to any loving home. Not only are they loyal and affectionate, but they have a great capacity for love and companionship. These small bulldogs are highly intelligent, and they have an exceptional capacity for forming strong and lasting bonds with their owners. Frenchies are also highly adaptable and can easily adjust to different living situations. They are, of course, quite small in stature and very low maintenance, making them ideal companions for busy people. French Bulldog puppies make wonderful pets. They will bring years of joy and love to their owners. When you find the perfect puppy, make sure you have the supplies necessary for their care such as food, toys, and bedding. Ensure your new puppy has a safe and secure environment in which to grow and thrive. Frenchies are known for their smart and lovable nature, being incredibly adaptable to different living situations, and providing sweet companionship. You could even find an adorable Frenchie pup that is free to a loving home! When you find the perfect puppy, make sure you are ready with all that you need. Uncovering the Facts! Preparing for a puppy means assessing your situation, such as making sure you have enough space and time to take care of the pup, as well as having enough money to provide for its needs. Once you have everything set, you can be sure that your new puppy will have a positive, loving environment as they become a part of your family. What to Do When You Find the Perfect Puppy Once you find the perfect puppy, it is important to take the proper steps to make sure you are prepared and that the puppy gets off to the best start possible. It is important to do research on the breed and make sure it is the right fit for your lifestyle and home. French Bulldogs are known for their intelligence and adaptability, but they still require regular exercise and attention. You should also make sure that you have all the basics you need for the puppy such as food, a bed, a crate, and toys. It is also important to make sure that the puppy has a positive, loving environment from the very beginning. It is also important to create a routine and a schedule for the puppy so that it can learn the rules and know what to expect. It is important to provide affection and positive reinforcement. This helps the puppy learn that good behavior is rewarded and that it is safe and loved. Make sure to take your puppy to the vet for check-ups and vaccinations, and also to offer it socialization opportunities in order to help it adjust to its new home. Taking these steps will help your puppy grow into a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted family companion. Making Sure You Have Everything You Need Before bringing home your new fur-baby, make sure that you have all of the appropriate supplies that you will need. You will want to make sure you have food and water dishes, a crate or kennel, toys, treats, a collar and leash, and a bed. Having all of these items ready before bringing your little one home will make the transition a lot smoother. Ask experienced dog owners for tips and advice, take classes on puppy behavior and training, and familiarize yourself with puppy-proofing your home. With the right preparation and supplies, you and your pup will be ready to make a lifetime of memories. Ensuring Your New Puppy Has a Positive, Loving Environment When bringing home a new French Bulldog puppy, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your pup has a positive and loving environment. This means making sure any potential hazards are out of reach, and that your pup has plenty of comfortable space to rest and play. It can be helpful to introduce your pup to your home gradually, giving them time to adjust to the new environment. This means taking the time to play with your pup, providing belly rubs, and speaking to them in a calming voice. This will help your pup understand acceptable behaviors and help them feel secure in their new home. Post Views: .Read more about the pups that are currently up for adoption. Read More… Foster Dogs FBRN is being faced with an increasing number of dogs who are ill, handicapped, or need expensive veterinary care before being placed. Meet our Foster Frenchies and please consider sponsoring one of them to ensure that they receive the care that they need. Read More… Surrender a Dog Life has thrown you a curve ball and you must surrender your French Bulldog… we are here to help! Read More… Volunteer We welcome you to join us in our efforts to rehabilitate and rehome needy French Bulldogs. We have many options for you to choose from, depending on your circumstances, time and resources. Our organization is composed solely of volunteers who nurture and foster these dogs as well as provide education and training. Our goal is to place healthy and happy French Bulldogs into forever homes. Read More… Contact Us Learn about the many ways that you can get in touch with us. He has a Staffie sister, Lettie, who he adores and who has taught him so much with her gentle patience. He has doggie friends at daycamp he sees once a week. He is the best snuggler ever! He used to be a resource guarder, but will now bring you his toys for a treat! He loves our daily walks and meeting people. Thank you FBRN for picking us to be his family- we love him so much! Despite being mostly blind and deaf, Ham is thriving in his golden years, especially with his folks now working from home. Thank you FBRN for our goodest good boy! We are so grateful for every day with him. She had cherry eye surgery in March right before Covid quarantine and the surgery was a success. A gigantic thank you to FBRN for allowing me to adopt this perfect little nugget. All Rights Reserved. A c 3 Non-Profit Organization. Tax ID: .Powered by Geeks4Rent. Download our guide! We offer standard and fluffy Award- winning Award-winning bloodline, guaranteed health Every TomKings parent dog has passed a rigorous selection and examination process before we started our elite breeding program to build the healthiest and most Frenchie-authentic gene pool for our TomKings Frenchies. All of our adult dogs and puppies get the highest quality food and supplements to ensure immaculate health, and they are checked by our vet on a weekly basis. Our purebred French bulldogs come with a TomKings Health Guarantee, that is valid against all genetic illnesses. Instead, we treat all of our Frenchies as family members , let them roam freely in our vast green garden and rest with us in our house. Our Frenchie puppies can play as much as they want and we raise them by teaching all the good manners among dogs and people, including children. Maternal love 12 weeks of maternal love and professional care Spending 3 whole months after birth with their caring mother and siblings ensures that TomKings puppies develop a healthy dog-personality and a well-balanced nature. Before joining their new families in the USA and elsewhere, our Frenchies get all the puppy vaccinations, are dewormed and treated against parasites. They travel in a temperature-controlled and pressurized room not stacked on top of suitcases , and they are watched all along the flight. During layovers, the puppies are taken off the plane and placed in a pet hotel, where they are given fresh food, water and lots of pampering. They are sweeter than any airport scenes in romantic movies. Feel free to reach out to us any time with your questions or to share your joy: we answer you immediately 16 hours a day.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Nancy Engelbrecht, founder of Heartstone Goldens, has been a lover of all animals since she was a little girl. She gained a love and affection for dogs during her childhood and having them as pets in her youth. In , Nancy and her family adopted their first golden retriever, Layla, and fell in love with the breed. Soon after, in August of , the Engelbrechts brought home 8-week-old puppy, Brenna, and have enjoyed the love and company of golden retrievers ever since. Since Layla, the Engelbrecht's have had a total of 23 wonderful Goldens come through their home! Nancy, along with her husband, David, and her two daughters, Loryn and Brie, enjoy the company of their goldens and spending time with them at Highland Lake in Winsted, CT. We want to help you find your "heart dog" First and foremost, all of our goldens are a part of our home and are members of our family. We believe in a firm "share-the-bed-share-the-couch-cuddling" policy! As pet owners, we know there is nothing quite like the love of a dog, and we foster our connection with our pets day-in and day-out. Currently, we are active in conformation and rally. Our goal is to have fun with our dogs! This includes hiking, swimming, walking, and playing, along with agility, rally, conformation and obedience--whatever excites them! We are aware that every dog has different enjoyments and believe in encouraging them all, whatever that may be! We find that it is so much fun to connect with your dogs through training because it strengthens your bond. Heartstone breeding goldens all have their health clearances for hips, elbows, hearts, and eyes in order to ensure the healthiest golden puppies possible. Our goal is to have puppies that perform well in any activiy, but most importantly to be treasured companions for their families. Our golden counterparts are our best friends and protectors, and we are their leaders, loves, and their who their worlds revolve around - we owe it to them to be worthy of such indesputable loyalty and devotion! Our Philosophy The Engelbrecht's Breeding Program The goal for Heartstone's breeding program is to produce beautiful golden retrievers that adhere to the golden retriever breed standards in every way. This includes body type and temperament, among other specific qualities. Currently, we breed one litter per year. All of our breeding dogs are listed on K9 Data and have all of their clearances completed which includes hips, elbows, eyes and heart. Our desire is to help you find your "heart dog"; the companion that touches your heart and fills you with love, warmth and joy for their entire lifetime! Puppy pads Create a Schedule Golden Retriever pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. It can even grow louder as they age. Moderate Training Golden Retrievers responds well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. This trimming is usually done on the ears, feet, neck and tail for a Golden Retriever to keep them looking smart. When should you start grooming your Golden Retriever puppy? Golden Retriever grooming should begin in their puppy phase to get them used to the process. These double-coated dogs are shedders that will need regular grooming in adult life to stimulate their coats, keep shedding under control and prevent mats and tangles. A Golden Retriever's coat doesn't develop properly until around 18 months, and as a puppy, your dog will have soft hair, which will form the undercoat once the overcoat develops. Get your puppy used to grooming by brushing its hair regularly with a soft-bristled brush, then moving onto a slicker brush as it ages and its coat begins to develop. If you plan on having your puppy professionally groomed, it's recommended to take it for its first trip to the groomer at around eight to twelve weeks old so it can get used to the grooming process and the salon. Golden Retrievers have a double coat which work together to protect your pup in both the winter and the summer months. Even clipping is not advisable with your Golden Retriever as it can hinder the growth of the undercoat later in the year. Instead, keep up with brushing their hair perhaps even doing it more regularly to remove the dead loose hair and regular bathing. Ideally, you need to be looking to purchase a dog shampoo that contains Oatmeal and Vitamin E. Regular brushing will reduce the amount of matting and make each brush a bit easier and softer. Use thinning scissors and begin to trim past where your thumb is, taking small bit by bit. Taking your time this way you should eventually reach your desired length. Recommended Products. Litter Plans Summer Pregnancy confirmed! Puppies are due on July 21st. If you have filled out a questionnaire in the past and are still interested in this litter, please send me an email at caledoniagoldens aol. If you have not yet filled out a questionnaire, please see the link below. Final evaluations to determine the best home for each puppy will not be finalized for up to weeks. So I may not know if there are any puppies available until that time. Is Caledonia Goldens a good fit for you? Having a good relationship is one of the benefits of working with a reputable breeder. I always tell my potential families that you are getting ME along with your new puppy. I will do my best to educate everyone on puppy raising, behavior, health issues, nutrition, etc. Not just at the time you pick up your puppy but for the entire life of your dog. I feel a huge responsibility for the lives I bring into this world and I do not take that responsibility lightly. I have high expectations of the puppy families too. I expect them to keep in touch, share photos, health records, training challenges, accomplishments, etc. I expect them to give their puppies appropriate socialization and training; follow my advice on food, immunizations, and exercise; and I ask that all my puppies get eye exams by a board certified ophthalmologist every years once the reach a certain age see the Health Page for more info on Pigmentary Uveitis All Caledonia Goldens are AKC registered and registered names follow the particular litter theme. Feel free to follow us on Facebook for information on any future plans. If you are interested in a puppy from one of our future litters, please fill out our Puppy Questionnaire. Please note it may take some time for me to get back to you. Having a litter of puppies takes up an incredible amount of time which impacts my response time. I suggest you contact the local club breeder referral contacts listed below. If you are still interested in a Caledonia puppy down the road, feel free to fill out the questionnaire and note that you are willing to wait. I realize Caledonia Goldens may not be a great fit for everyone and since we only have a litter every few years, timing or puppy availability may be an issue. If so, I have listed some references below as to how to go about finding a reputable breeder in the area. For other local litter referrals please contact the following local clubs:. I am a proud and responsible breeder of AKC registered dogs. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. Thank you so much for your possible interest and inquiry regarding my Golden Retrievers! Sharing my golden family and precious puppies with wonderful families has been such a rewarding experience for me over the past 16 years. I love to see and am blessed by the joy my puppies bring to all of the families that find me. I have posted various pictures of my puppies that I have taken or families have shared with me over the years. As you can see, they are beautiful and just so very awesome! Pictures of my current puppies and their parents are posted in my listing. Jaxie is my youngest and the mother of my newest litter. Jaxie and Channing just had their first puppies together, and they are simply beautiful. Jaxie did very well giving birth to her babies and has been an excellent mother giving each and every one of her golden babies all the love and attention they deserve and need. Jaxie and her babies are so beautiful. Channing, sire to my puppies, is a very smart, active young guy. He really seems to adore Anna, Jaxie, and Allie and constantly displays acts of affection towards them in different ways. He is always by their sides trying his best to engage them in play. He, too, enjoys our pond. Anna, my medium golden dam, is equally sweet and kind. Her favorite activity is to slowly ponder around our 25 acres under the old oak trees all by herself. She also enjoys laying in the shade by our pond and then when she feels like it, joining the others for wade in our Golden's favorite man-made pond. Allie is my lighter mama. She has such a sweet, sweet disposition. She is a very affectionate Golden who loves spending time with me. She truly waits for me to come home and greets me as I open the door to my car each and every day. There is NO way that Tallie, my very first Golden Retriever and dam to my first litters, could not be shared. She has a very special place in my heart just because she was the first and the very reason that Golden Retriever babies are part of my life to this day. Her personality and joy of life was just like all of my other Goldens and even more. Tallie is now in heaven and truly missed and thought about each and every day. She will never be forgotten and always treasured. Mason, the oldest and previous sire to my litters, was definitely the dominate male in my golden family. He recently went to heaven and will be so missed. He was a wonderful golden whose favorite activity was to dig, dig, dig. He enjoyed going into the water to fetch balls but also to search for things under the water. He simply lowered his head under the water and eventually came up with a stick or even a tiny limb. He was so proud acting with this accomplishment! My Callah, a darker golden dam to some of my puppies, was the sweetest and kindest Golden anyone could ever know. She also loved having her paws rubbed. Finding the tiniest twig or a small stick was a favorite desire of her heart. Wading through our pond searching for little fish were as well. She is now in heaven and is truly missed. Breeding Golden Retrievers has been a part of my life for the past 16 years as my family has lived out on 25 beautiful acres in rural Madison County. My puppies are born and raised in our home and given top quality care filled with much genuine love each and every day. I thoroughly enjoy raising these goldens, take much pride in the manner in which I care for them and truly enjoy meeting and establishing genuine new friendships with each and every family that finds me. Madison is located off of interstate 10, one hour east of Tallahassee. Please text or give me a call at .I feel there isnt any way in which you would be unsatisfied with my puppies, the manner and home environment in which they are being cared for and raised, or your experience with me. I look forward to hearing from you, and thank you again for your interest in my Golden Retrievers. Sutter's Gold Goldens.

Squirrels drive them crazy, garbage is their favorite snack, and immediately after chewing your one-of-a-kind, handmade leather jacket into confetti, they can give you a look of such innocent love and adoration that you forget all about it. This kind of behavior can baffle and frustrate even the most conscientious of dog owners, and rightfully so. When you bring a puppy home, she becomes part of your family; you need to be able to trust her with your home, your belongings, and even your children. She needs to be taught appropriate behavior calmly, gently, and—most important—consistently. As soon as you get your labradoodle, you can start teaching her how to obey you, how to act around people and other dogs, and generally to be the best-behaved dog ever. Wild dogs live and hunt in packs, and to your dog, you and the other members of your family are fellow pack members. This is an important model, because in every pack there are structured power relationships between members. Puppies who are never disciplined may begin aggressively testing their boundaries when they reach doggy adolescence. In extreme cases, they can begin biting. You do not have to use physical intimidation to do so. Some trainers recommend that owners establish their dominance through a show of physical force ranging from an alpha roll—flipping a dog over so her belly is exposed—to actually biting a dog on the muzzle. This can leave a dog feeling threatened and defensive, and may even provoke an attack. Most dogs are perfectly happy submitting to a leader; they actually gain confidence and a sense of security from having someone to follow. The job of a good pack leader is to project a sense of strength by using a deep, steady voice, reacting calmly to situations that make the dog nervous, and giving rewards only for good behavior. Training your dog to sit and lie down is helpful as well. Having her repeatedly take a lower, submissive position at your command reinforces your dominant position. The social life Socializing is one of the most important things you can do to train your young labradoodle. Puppies, like babies, are like sponges—ready to absorb all kinds of information about their world. In the first few months of their lives, they learn the right places to sleep to catch the late afternoon sun and that the sound of the can opener means dinner- time. This is one of the most important things you can do for your fuzzy family member. The less afraid your puppy is of strange people and animals, the less likely she is to act defensively and attack another dog or even a child. The socialization of puppies begins between three and four weeks of age, before most people bring their new pets home. This means that some of the work is out of your control. If your puppy has been raised by a careless owner or breeder, you may have an uphill battle to fight when you get her home. The good news is, puppy will continue the socialization process until puppy is few months old, so you have plenty of time to give her good experiences. First of all, make sure puppy bonds with you and your family. Pet pup, groom pup, play with puppy, talk to her, and just generally give her lots of love. Show puppy that she can depend on you for affection, food, and gentle leadership. Once your pup feels safe with you, introduce puppy to your big world. Make sure puppy has plenty of chances to meet kind people and play with well-socialized dogs. Try to make trips to the veterinarian go safe and smoothly in the comfort of your arms, with plenty of petting from you and the friendly veterinarian and technicians important to never let puppy or dog run around in Vet office especially in waiting room. Introduce your puppy to children, too, in a well-supervised environment. Show the kids how to speak calmly to your puppy and pet her gently. If you notice your puppy acting nervous in a new situation or starting to bristle at a strange dog, try not to scold her. Raising your voice will only make puppy more tense. Trying to comfort puppy will backfire too. Instead, distract puppy as best you can. Toss a ball or a chew toy to pup, or start playing a favorite game. When puppy gets absorbed in the game and starts ignoring the people or the dog that scared your puppy, give pup lots of praise. Soon puppy will associate the scary situation with fun and playtime, and your puppy will become a canine socialite. We will be sharing our Helpful Hints in email before puppy comes home with lots of great info and photos of good products to have and picture of a comfort safe zone. When most dog owners think about training their dog, they think in negatives. They want their puppy not to chew the furniture, not to piddle on the carpet, and not to jump up on guests. Imagine you were a puppy home alone, and you spent most of your day chewing on some loafers and spreading garbage around the kitchen. Then you nap for an hour and meet your family at the door when they come home. Was it the chewing or meeting the family at the door? What were you supposed to do instead? For example, if you see your puppy dancing anxiously around the living room like she needs to go out, get her outside in a flash. This teaches puppy that going outside is a good thing. Whenever you catch her chewing on one of her toys, reward puppy. Make a point of noticing these behaviors and rewarding them with attention, praise, or treats. Training is a gradual process, and it can be a difficult road to walk alone. Remember, when you train, you need to be persistent, and above all, patient. Puppy needs your love, attention, and guidance to be the good Labradoodle dog you know pup can be. There are lots of good book on dog training! Her website has a lot of excellent resources. See lots of fun photos and videos of our GorgeousDoodles families on our Pics and Vids page , and on our YouTube and Facebook accounts! But in the early days, we recommend keeping them close to you at night. It will help them feel safe and cared for — leaving their litter is quite a big step, after all. Your puppy may be unsettled and will most likely need at least one bathroom break through the night. It will all be okay in a few weeks time, though. The crate should be a cozy warm den for your puppy. Soft blankets and a cuddly toy should do the trick to help them settle. It is also a good idea to cover over the sides but keep the front uncovered so your pup can still see out. Just before bed, take your pup out for one last potty stop. With that beautiful voice of yours, gently reassure them and rest your hand in the crate so they know you are there. When your puppy wakes up in the night they definitely will at some point , listen to see if they are settling back down. Expect to be out at or am to take them straight to the loo. They will be bursting! That just about covers the first steps of Labradoodle sleep training. Very tired. But early mornings, late nights and disturbed sleep are all part of owning a puppy. As they mature emotionally and settle into their new home they will be happy in other parts of the house, and even outside of their crate. Having them in your room does not cause separation anxiety later on. Stick to a routine! Consistency is everything. It will backfire on you. Check out our guide on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night for more tips. Alone Training Labradoodles are very sociable. That can mean two things — they will always be happy to see you and that being alone can be challenging for them. This will help them feel at ease without you and also help them love their crate a little bit more too. While they are eating, go and do something close by. No need to go completely out of sight, but try not to focus on your puppy either. Labradoodles love to eat, so use this time wisely to distract them away from you. Just a few seconds is good enough in the early stages. Repeat: Practice makes perfect! Do this exercise at least once a day to build up alone time, and check out our guide to puppy separation anxiety. We expand on our little secret in our puppy potty training article. Every 30 minutes, after eating, sleeping or playing. Socialization Exercises to do This Week Early socialization is important for all puppies. It gives them confidence and teaches them to view the world in an optimistic way. Here are some puppy socialization exercises to do with your Labradoodle. Let your Labradoodle Puppy Explore the Yard The yard is a great way to introduce your puppy to the great outdoors. They will also get used to walking on different types of surfaces such as your tiled, wet lawn or open flower beds. To get them there, here is a quick exercise you can run through: Exploring different surfaces exercise Have plenty of treats ready. Only use safe surfaces, nothing too slippery. Gather surfaces such as: A piece of carpet A large tray with a thin layer of water A large piece of tin foil or cardboard, something that makes a noise. Put the surfaces out on the floor and let your puppy investigate. Let them take their time and go at their own pace. In our experience Labradoodles are quite food motivated, and you can probably use a low or medium value treat for this. You can even try to use their kibble as many will be delighted to work for their food. For more info on what rewards to use check out our article on rewards and treats. Teach your puppy their name One of the first things your puppy will learn from you is their name. Fortunately, teaching a Labradoodle puppy their name is rather simple. Pretty easy, right? Practice this a few times everyday until they start flipping their head at you every time you call their name. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name too! Teach your puppy to sit Labradoodle training is often started by teaching them how to sit. We call this a marker word. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow with a tasty treat. Bits of smelly sausage or cheese will definitely do the trick. If this happens, try to keep it simple at first and just use their own kibble if they are motivated to work for it. Save the big guns in treat terms for when you really need it! How to do it Always begin training at home. The outside world is far too exciting at the moment, and your puppy will probably not focus on you. Stand in front of your pup with a treat in your hand and place the treat on their nose, then bring it up to your waist. Recall — How to teach your Labradoodle puppy to come back when called Your puppy should have a good grasp of their name by now, which should make recall training pretty straightforward. Pun intended. How to do it You will need plenty of those high value treats and your best cheery voice. Call your puppy only once! This is super important as you want them to learn that their name only has to be called once for them to react to it. How to do it Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Once they are interested in the toy, throw it a short distance away from you. With that lovely singing voice of yours, encourage them to bring it back to you. When they do, swap the toy in their mouth for another identical toy. Repeat about 5 times and practice everyday. Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Prevention of Resource Guarding This part of Labradoodle training is important — it will prevent resource guarding by teaching your puppy how to give up items willingly. Resource guarding is this thing that happens when dogs are unwilling to give up items back, or when they get protective over something from humans or other dogs. From the training tips above, preventing resource guarding always comes down to a good swapping. Resource guarding starts when we force our dogs as puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. To avoid that, resist your temptation to reach deep inside their mouths to get whatever it is they have. Ultimately, we want our puppies to be willing to give things up when we need them to. What we really mean is care, handling, health and grooming. Start by just showing them the brush and running it over them with the apartment side so they get used to the sensation minus the bristles. Hand Touch and Handling If you handle your puppy too roughly or grab at them, not only are they going to have a bit of a fright, but it could make them feel scared about being touched in the future. Use plenty of treats, and remember to stop if they walk away. Touch should be a pleasant thing not forced. Week 2 — Training your Labradoodle puppy Week 2 already! 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. If you put in the effort early on, then you will be rewarded with a well-mannered dog who will be a joy to spend time with for years to come. Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly, and playful, but if you let your youngster do whatever he wants and allow him to think that he is the boss, then you may well end up with a naughty, attention-seeking adult. Lack of training usually plays a big part in why the dog develops some unwanted behavior traits. If you want a dog that you can take anywhere and who will be a perfect companion, rather than a pain in the neck, then spend time early on teaching him some manners and your ground rules. You may consider seeking the help of a professional trainer, but that option may not be practical or within the budget. This way, your puppy will get to learn and socialize with other dogs at the same time. You could also watch some Labradoodle training videos on YouTube, but it should not replace training with other dogs. If you decide to train your Doodle yourself, then remember the golden rule: training should always be based on rewards and not punishment. It should be a positive learning experience for both of you. Labradoodles can be sensitive little critters, and bawling at the top of your voice or smacking should not play any part in training. Are Labradoodles Easy to Train? Labradoodles are very intelligent and generally regarded as easy to train due to their easy-going temperaments and desire to connect with and please their humans. They have curious minds, and most will thrive on training if they get the chance to exercise their grey matter with some fun. Some Labradoodles are professionally trained to a very high standard to become guide or therapy dogs. Over the years, Labradoodles, especially Australian Labradoodles , have been bred with a specific easy-going temperament in mind. Early Labradoodles were often headstrong and hyper-active, but well-bred Aussie Doodles these days usually have great personalities and fit well into family life. Like most dogs, Labradoodles are pack animals and hierarchical. They respect the pecking order and are happy when they know and are comfortable with their place in it. They need to learn their place in the pack and accept you as a pack leader. You cannot force this on a dog by shouting and hitting. It has to be established by the natural order of things like mutual consent and brought about by proper training. If your puppy is not made aware of his place in the household and the rules to abide by, then he will end up ruling you and your family. Be firm, but never aggressive with your dog. If you do it wrong then, you will either frighten him or teach him to be aggressive. Keep training short and fun, especially at the beginning. If you have adopted an older dog, you can still train him, but it is a lot harder for them to unlearn bad habits. Training Tip 2: Your voice is your most important training tool Your dog has to learn to understand your language. The tone of your voice is very important. You should command in a calm, authoritative voice without shouting. Praise the puppy in a cheerful, encouraging voice, followed by a stroke or a pat. If your dog has done something wrong, use a firm, stern voice, not a harsh scream. This rule still applies even if your Labradoodle is unresponsive at the beginning. Training Tip 3: Only give command that you can enforce Labradoodles are intelligent dogs. Training Tip 4: Train your dog gently and humanely. Use positive and motivational methods to teach your puppy. Keep training sessions upbeat, so the whole experience is enjoyable for both of you. Training Tip 5: Begin your training from home How well your dog responds to you at home affects his behavior away from home as well. Training Tip 6: One command equals one response Give your dog only one command — twice maximum — then gently enforce it. Repeating commands or nagging will make your Labradoodle tune out. It also tells him that the first few commands are a bluff. But a relationship based on fear is not a good one, and it will undermine your relationship with him. He should trust that when he hears his name, good things happen. His name should always be a word that your Doodle responds to with enthusiasm, never hesitancy or fear. If he gets lots of attention when he jumps up on you, his bad behavior gets reinforced. Training Tip Timing is critical When your puppy does something right, praise him immediately. Similarly, when he does something wrong, correct him straight away. This technique works surprisingly well. Training Tip Give your dog attention when YOU want Labradoodles are sociable creatures, and they love being with you and involved with the family. While you are training him, it is good to give your puppy lots of positive attention when he is good. But if he starts jumping up, nudging you constantly or barking for your attention, then ignore him. If you give in to his every demand, then he will begin to think that he is the boss and become more demanding. Wait a while and pat him when you want, and when he has stopped demanding your attention. Training Tip Be Consistent In terms of rules and training, treat your fluffy little Doodle pup as a grown-up. Make him abide by the rules you want him to live by as an adult. You may want to put your pup on a leash to hold his attention in the beginning. Stand facing each other and hold a treat a few inches above his head. Stroke and praise him for as long as he stays in the sitting position. Practice it in short sessions until he does it every time. After a while, he should do it just from command, without moving the treat over him. When he does, give him a treat anyway. If he jumps up on his back legs and paws while you are moving the treat, be patient, and start all over again. Another method is to put one hand on his chest and with your other hand, gently push down on his rear end until he is sitting. Give him a treat and praise, even though you have made him do it. For example, when you are putting his leash on, while you are preparing his meal, when he fetches the ball, or when he is demanding attention or getting over-excited. They do it all the time with their siblings in the litter. It is a game for them. But when they arrive at your home, they have to be taught that human body parts are not for biting. Try not to encourage play-biting. As a puppy grows and feels more confident in his surroundings, and he may become slightly more aggressive. His bites may hurt someone, especially if you have children or older people at home. Make sure to have a soft toy nearby every time you have a play session with your puppy. When he starts to chew your hand or feet, clench your fingers or toes to make it more difficult and distract him with the soft toy in your other hand. Keep the game interesting by moving the toy around or rolling it around in front of him. He may continue to chew you, but will eventually realize that the toy is far more exciting and livelier than your body parts. If he becomes over-excited or too aggressive with the toy and starts growling a lot, then stop playing with him, and walk away. If your pup is more persistent and tries to bite your legs as you walk away, thinking this is another fantastic game, stand still and ignore him. Your puppy may well jump back in amazement, surprised that he has hurt you. Train a Labradoodle Not to Jump The reason why a labradoodle jumps up onto humans is that they want to get your attention and say hello. As you are taller than him, he has to jump to get your attention. Sadly, it might not be enjoyable for your guests or other people having an unknown dog jumping on them. As a dog owner, you must stop your dog from bothering other people. You can try the below techniques to train your labradoodle not to jump: When your dog starts jumping, follow training tip 9. Do not look into his eyes and stand straight up with your arms crossed. When his paws touch the ground, pat him. Repeat the exercise until he stops jumping. If your dog is jumping on a guest, then ask your guest to turn around and ignore him. Labradoodle Crate Training Crate training is the process of teaching your pup how to behave and enjoy spending time in a crate. Along with housetraining, this is one of the first things you should do when you get a new puppy. The idea behind crate training is that dogs like to have their particular spot. This place is a Safe Haven where only they can go. It teaches them to hold it until they are let outside to potty. Crates are not for every Labradoodle, and you should NEVER use them to imprison the dog while you are out of the house all day. Doodles are not like hamsters or pet mice, which can adapt to life in a cage. But, used correctly, a crate can help to: Housetrain your dog Keep your dog safe when traveling Create a doggy bedroom or place where your Labradoodle feels safe. If you use a crate, then remember that it is NOT a prison to restrain the dog. It should only be used humanely, and time should be spent to make the puppy feel like the crate is his safe little haven. Place the crate in the corner of a room, away from cold draughts or too much heat. Labradoodles like to be near their pack so, leave him where he can hear you. Crate Training Here are some techniques that you can follow to make your puppy to accept a crate and then to want to spend time in there. He might not be very happy about going in at first, but he will be a lot easier to crate train than an adult dog Drop a few tasty treats around and then inside the crate. Keep the door open. Do not close the crate door yet. Place a chew or treat inside the crate and close the door while your pup is outside the crate. He will be desperate to get in. Open the door to let him in and praises him. Fasten a long-lasting chew inside the crate and leave the door open. Let your puppy go inside and spend some time eating the chew. After a while, close the crate door and feed him some treats through the mesh. At first, do it for a few seconds at a time, then gradually increase the time. If you do it too fast, he will become distressed. Slowly build up the amount of time he is in the crate. For the first few days, stay in the room, then gradually leave the room for a short time, first one minute, then three, then 10, 30 minutes, and so on. The next points are very important to make the crate training successful: Do not let the dog immediately out of the crate while he is barking, or he will think that barking is the key to opening the door to the crate. Wait until the barking or whining has stopped for at least 10 seconds before letting him out. If you do decide to use a crate, remember that a dog is NOT a caged animal. Use the crate for limited periods and only if your dog is comfortable in there. NEVER force a dog to go in and then lock him in for hours on end. From about the age of three weeks, a puppy will leave his sleeping area to go to the toilet. Therefore, you need to teach him that it is unacceptable to make a mess anywhere inside the home. It depends on how quickly your puppy learns and how persistent and patient you are. Follow these steps to speed up the potty-training process: Constant supervision is essential for the first few weeks if you want to house train your puppy quickly. This is why it is necessary to book the week off work when you bring a new puppy home. Making sure you are there to take him outside regularly. If nobody is there, he will learn to urinate or poop inside the house. Take your puppy outside to the same place every time. Dogs naturally develop a preference for going in the same spot or on the same surface -often grass. Take him to the same patch every time, so he learns this is his toilet — preferably an area in a far corner of your garden or yard. No pressure — be patient. You must allow your Doodle pup to wander around and have a good sniff before he does his duties. Stay around a short distance away instead of leaving him. Sadly, puppies are not known for their powers of concentration. They may become easily distracted, and it may take a while for them to select that perfect spot to wee pee on! Share the responsibility. Just make sure you stick to the same routines and patch of ground. Take your pup outside at the following times: As soon as he wakes — every time Shortly after each feed. Contact Prepare for Your Australian Labradoodle Puppy Bringing home your new puppy is one of the greatest joys, and planning ahead and having what your new puppy will need are keys to a successful beginning. While it is great fun to buy lots of toys and pet beds and cute collars for your new family member, the greatest gift that you can give this furry baby is to prepare yourself with the knowledge of raising a dog. It is very important to think about your puppies first week with you in the most quiet and peaceful manner you can imagine. The following tips will help establish a good foundation relationship between you and your new pet. Good idea. Your puppies first few days would be best suited to having as much of your attention as possible and as calm of a schedule as you can manage. Your puppy will adjust best if you keep company to a minimum for the first days. Establishing a routine for feeding your puppy three times a day and a designated "crate training" time each initial day will serve both your family and your puppy well. It is very scary for a puppy to come into a new home and be left alone for many hours at a time. While it is fine to leave the puppy for a little while each day, it needs to be done in a manner that will be conducive to helping your puppy adjust well. If you have children, be sure to read books and watch videos about children and dogs. The puppy is not a new toy, and the children need to be very respectful of the new puppies space and sleep schedule. The puppy is not a toy. Watch for signs that your puppy needs to use the restroom. Puppies have very little bladder control and will need to take frequent breaks to eliminate. The key times to be watchful and initiate potty breaks are: after eating, drinking, playing, or waking from sleep. Do not ever punish your pet for an accident. Just pick him up and redirect him. Then praise him each time he goes outside. Never ever take a puppy that has not been fully vaccinated to a retail pet store. Vaccinations will usually be completed by 16 weeks and your vet can inform you of the timeframe that your pet will have the full coverage of the vaccinations. Pet stores are frequently the culprits of a puppy being exposed to harmful diseases that are life threatening. Be sure you have read a few books to understand what typical "puppy behaviors" look like. A few normal puppy behaviors include: nipping, chasing, chewing, and barking. Good pet owners will have a plan in place to address these issues in a manner that is positive and will redirect the behavior. Like children, puppies respond best to repetition. Australian Labradoodles are particularly sensitive in nature and do not usually require harsh discipline. Additional supply list info that is more specific is on the Homecoming Prep link above. The Labradoodle is a gorgeous cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and the Goldendoodle is an adorable mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Characteristics and traits can vary significantly because these pups are a hybrid breed, but they are usually incredibly people-focused, laid back, and playful, making Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training an enjoyable moment. Doodles make awesome pets, especially if their owners fully comprehend the importance of training from a young age. The type of adult dog breed you end up with depends a little bit on their personality and a lot on how you take care of them. Before you begin Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training, it helps to decide exactly what kind of dog you want to have. Do Plenty of Research It is vital that you have an understanding of canine learning theory because dogs learn very differently from people. A puppy does whatever it can to get what it desires the most at that moment. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you about methods to get the best out of your training. It may be helpful to consult a puppy training professional or spend some time at doggy school to get a headstart and pick up tips from experts. Your pup is a blank slate — with your guidance, they can develop the traits and learn the behaviors that you value the most. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle puppies are curious and they love exploring their new home as they make it their own. Getting it right during the early stages sets a precedent for the rest of their life. Spending as much time as you can with them helps build the foundation for a happy, confident and well-behaved dog. Form a Bond and Gain Trust With Your Doodle Before you do anything, you will need to develop a strong bond with your new pal to make sure they trust you. Try to keep your own energy as calm as possible — they bounce off you. While it may be tempting to get excited by their cuteness and mirror their enthusiasm, this makes it more difficult for them to listen to you and regulate their own behavior. Teach your furry friend what to expect from the moment they get into the home to stop them from getting confused. Use Positive Reinforcement Intimidation or fear tactics are never the best way to build a loving and secure bond between you and your fur baby. To make the most of this method, reward your pooch for good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Treats, verbal praise, and clicker training reward them for a job well done. This also helps them to make positive associations with you and training time. Everyone has their own list of priorities and yours will depend on factors such as whether you have children or other pets. Potty training is a straightforward, formulaic process that your new puppy will adapt to. A consistent routine is the key to getting them toilet trained as efficiently and effectively as possible. Let them outside at the same time each day, and take them to the same spot. In the early days, it may be difficult for them to make it all the way through the night, so try to make provisions for this stage. Select a word for them to associate with potty training and repeat it over and over whenever you take them to the toilet. Every time they do their business outside, give them lots of cuddles and praise, treat them and play one of their favorite games. There will be setbacks — getting it right takes time! If they mess in the wrong place, take them outside to their toileting spot and give them the chance to relieve themselves. We cannot emphasize the importance of praising them when they get it right enough! Crate Training Not everyone opts to crate train their puppy, but it can be useful for the earliest stages of Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training. The crate gives them a safe place they can call their own. Be sure to make the time they spend in the crate a positive experience, and never leave them in there for more hours than their age in months plus one hour. For example, a three-month-old puppy can be kept in their crate for no more than four hours. Socialization Dogs are social animals, and Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, in particular, are happiest when they spend time pleasing people and playing. However, building confidence takes effort and guidance from their pet parent. If you want to ensure they grow up to have a balanced personality, you need to expose them to plenty of dogs, people and different situations. Take them out and about as much as possible to help them become accustomed to a range of noises, sights and sounds. Bring them to a local dog park to get them used to spending time around other dogs. Manners Your adorable little pup has the potential to develop a host of bad habits, but these behaviors can be nipped in the bud. Temperament and Dealing with Small Children There are several steps to take while getting your canine cutie used to being a member of a family with children. Both pup and child will need to have clear boundaries mapped out for them so they can build mutual trust and be kind to each other. Let the child practice with a toy before they pick up or cuddle the pup. Ensure the child sits down when they play with the dog; this helps to prevent the pup from getting overexcited. Teach the child to do small tasks to help care for the dog, such as filling the bowl or helping with grooming. Knowing what to expect according to the time of day helps them to settle and feel reassured. Always wake them up at the same time, feed and walk them around the same time and do training exercises at a set time. Patience Is Everything! The best piece of advice for Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training is to have patience. Spend lots of time bonding and playing with your pooch so you can make training something fun that you both enjoy. Small puppies should not be left alone throughout the working day, they need company and frequent small meals. Ideally, you should try to take time off work when you first bring your puppy home. This way, you can start to form that strong bond with your dog. And, once your Doodle is old enough, you can consider alternatives like doggy day care. What Do Puppies Need Most puppies are about 8 weeks old when they are adopted into their new human family. At this age they need a lot of company, meals spread out at intervals during the day, and most importantly they need to be socialized. That means you need to take your puppy somewhere new, and find new experiences for them, almost every day. And your puppy will also need to be potty trained. This includes playtime, feeding them, and more. It is possible to raise a puppy if you work full time. But in most cases, you will need to hire someone to help you out. The best option is often a professional dog sitter, or someone that works closely with animals. They will be more knowledgeable about puppy needs, and will be able to follow any instructions you leave regarding potty training, socialization, and daily routines. But, despite good intentions, many friends may be less happy to put in the work needed when they realise how tiring puppies can be! Can Someone Just Check on my Puppy? Many people hope to hire a friend or dog sitter to just pop in and check on their puppy every few hours. They may even hope to go home during lunch to do it themselves and save some money. But, this is not enough contact for a very young puppy. If a friend has agreed to care for your puppy it would be better if you drop your puppy off with your friend on your way to work, and collect them on the way home. If you leave your puppy home alone all day with someone popping in to check on them once or twice a day, they are likely to become very upset and potentially to suffer in the long term from separation anxiety. This can be hard to treat. What Do Puppies Do During The Day Small puppies do spend a lot of time sleeping, but this time reduces quite quickly over the first two to three weeks. Much of those early weeks are spent learning the ropes of family life, getting to know family members, and learning to focus on, and listen to their human companions. Puppies that spend a lot of time around family members learn quickly and adapt quickly to their new lives. Puppies that are left home alone miss out on this important time in their development and importantly their owners miss out too. One thing you can do if you work full time, is to make sure you spend your evenings interacting with your puppy. Crate Time Most Labradoodle owners opt to use a crate for their puppy. This gives their puppy a safe space to rest, nap, and play whilst they are away from home. Crate training aims to mimic the confined comfort of a low, enclosed den. This is similar to the den that a young wild canid might take shelter in whilst their mother is out hunting. After all, your puppy has only just said goodbye to their littermates, who they shared a bed with. At first, your Labradoodle may be anxious about crate confinement. So, let them sleep in the crate next to your bed for the first few nights at home. And, build up their time in the crate in very small increments. This can be stressful for them, leading to depression, built up energy, and anxiety. A puppy proof room or large play pen with a bed in it, drinking water, and an area of puppy pads for bathroom purposes is essential. This will probably mean potty training takes you a little longer. Puppies with upset tummies may need 5 meals a day for a while. This is because their small stomachs will struggle to digest large amounts of food like an adult Labradoodle would. Your work schedule may allow you to feed the morning and evening meals. But, most owners who work full time outside the home find that they need help with feeding during the day. Feeding your Labradoodle puppy personally is a great way to build your bond, and you can use their daily food allowance in training. Until then, expect accidents, whether your Labradoodle puppy wants them to happen or not. The general rule of thumb is to add one hour of bladder and bowel control for each month of age. So, at eight weeks two months old, your Labradoodle might be able to hold it for two hours. But, this is not guaranteed, and some puppies may need to pee as often as every 20 minutes. And you will struggle to get your puppy clean indoors in the long term. Not surprising when we consider the breeds they come from — the friendly Labrador Retriever and the loyal Standard Poodle! Labradoodles, and many other breeds of dog, live for human companionship. Especially considering that this is the first time they will have been truly alone, without even their siblings or mother for company. Training and Socialization As long as you get your Labradoodle from a reputable dog breeder, your puppy will have started some basic training and socialization before coming home with you. This includes: Basic commands Potty training And socialization to strange people and animals You may want to consider if your work schedule will allow you to train your puppy before and after work. This is ideal, since the bond with your new Labradoodle puppy will grow stronger with each training session you do together. Exercise and Play Many Labradoodle owners choose the fun-loving, energetic Labradoodle because they want an active dog to go walking, hiking, and adventuring with. Labradoodle puppies get a surprising amount of exercise from simply exploring your home, playing, and training. As a rule of thumb, puppies only need 5 minutes of exercise per month of their life. So, at 12 weeks old, they should only get 15 minutes of formal exercise. At 16 weeks, this can increase to 20 minutes, and so on. By 8 months old, your Doodle may enjoy some longer walks, of up to 40 minutes! But, other dogs may also enjoy some energetic time in the dog park, or learning to retrieve. If possible, arrange your work schedule so you can give your Labradoodle puppy some interactive free play time before you leave. This will help to build the bond between you. What About Doggy Day Care? So, you will have to wait till this age before a doggy day care center becomes an option for you. Or, reduce your working hours, and take plenty of trips home during the working day to look after your pup. Today, more than ever before, many employers are offering workers flexible schedules or even remote work accommodation where possible. This has made it possible for many people to have a dog when they could not have one before. But for many pet parents, the only workable solution to raising a puppy while they work full time, is professional help. So you do need to consider the cost of this before you bring a puppy into your home. You also need to think about what you want to get out of raising a puppy yourself. The truth is, the more time you can spend with your Labradoodle puppy whilst they are young, the stronger your bond will become. It is definitely possible to raise a Labradoodle puppy if you work full time, but you will miss out on a lot of that early care, which can be disappointing. Let us know about your experiences in the comments. Related Articles. We have included it in your Puppy Packet. We have included a blanket and toy as well. They will afford some comfort and security for the first few days, so keep them close, especially at night. Family Labradoodles — Music to Calm Puppies is a well thought out selection of music designed to calm your pets. The compositions maintain a soothing yet varied dynamic. Your puppy has been listening to this CD since birth and will be a good tool when you are away or at bedtime. We have included a copy in your packet. Limit Exposure First and Foremost: Until your puppy has received all three sets of vaccinations, use caution and good sense in limiting exposure to the very real diseases that await new puppies. I cannot emphasize this enough. Make no Mistake: Parvo, Distemper and other infectious diseases can threaten the life of your puppy. They are deadly and they ARE out there. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated, I strongly discourage Puppy Parks, Pet Stores or open public places where other dogs may have defecated. During a veterinary visit, do not allow your puppy on the floor. Keep him on your lap or in a carrier until he is put on the examining table. Your puppy will need to be vaccinated at 8, 12, and 16 weeks. His vaccination program will continue with your veterinarian. Rabies inoculation is a single dose, usually at four months of age or older, with a repeat vaccination every one to three years. Check with your veterinary facility. Socialization is so important at this time- actually most critical between 4 and 16 weeks- but ongoing for the first year. Pay special attention to this time frame- this is when your puppy learns to grow to be a confident friendly adult. Careful, positive exposure now to all those things he will encounter in his adult life, from car rides to children of all ages to individuals outside of his family, and walks and cats too, and other unfamiliar dogs is essential for a happy well-adjusted dog. I want to mention that at 12 weeks of age, your puppy will experience an ultra-sensitive shy stage. Try not to introduce too much at this time- especially things that could be perceived as fearful, aggressive or over stimulating. You will be walking a fine line between proper socialization and health concerns. Stay vigilant and use good common sense when exposing your puppy to the world. Never, never use pet rest areas; Dog Parks and pet stores are a big no until all immunizations are complete. A darling little girl from a previous litter, Ivy, died 3 weeks after being with her new family. They were anxious for her to go to a dog park with friends despite the warnings and contracted Parvo. She died 36 hours later. So, please, take care while sharing your world — enjoy all the new learning experiences with your puppy while sensibly protecting him. Crate Training I encourage all new puppy owners to use a crate for their puppy. Buy a crate that will accommodate your puppy when he is fully grown. Choose one that has a divider to limit his space initially. This will help with housebreaking. I particularly like the wire crates that have 2 doors; one on the side and front for more placement options. Any time you cannot keep an eye on your puppy, putting him in his crate will keep him safe. Make going in the crate fun! I always give my dogs and puppies a small treat when entering their crate. Never use the crate as a form of punishment Whining: your puppy may or may not whine initially while in his crate. He has been exposed to a crate for several weeks and is familiar with going in and out at will. Do not give in; stay strong- they will learn that being in their crate is a part of everyday life and never a bad thing. Crating, both at night and when you are unable to supervise, is the safest option for your lively and inquisitive puppy. It will also protect your home, woodwork, rugs, table legs, chair rungs, sofa corners, tennis shoes, homework, book bags and anything else that your puppy is convinced is a toy and needs a good chew. Tip: Bitter Apple spray will help deter your puppy from choosing sprayed surfaces as chew toys. Housebreaking This is where your crate becomes an invaluable tool. No animal willingly soils his environment crate. Limiting his space helps to train your puppy to hold his business for longer periods of time. Your puppy will not know how to tell you he needs to go outside so I suggest taking him out every hour or so until he is older and able to go for longer periods of time. Key times to encourage your puppy to potty outside are: When he wakes up-in the morning and after a nap- after playing for an hour, after eating, and of course, hurry when you see him running in circles! Try to take him to the same spot each time and shower praises on your clever puppy when he goes. Remember, he will not know to go outside exclusively for many months. Positive praise for the job well done works. Punishment for accidents, and there will be accidents, may make your puppy fearful and confused with the whole process causing setbacks in the progress he has made. Note: Please remember to give this little puppy time to understand what it is that you expect from him. But most of all, kindness and patience should always temper all parts of the training process. Feeding 4 times a day until they are 4 months of age 3 times a day until they are 6 months of age 2 times a day after 6 months, even as an adult dog Your puppy has been eating Paw Tree chicken and oatmeal formulation. Paw Tree has several very good flavors for puppies. He should continue with this dry food for the first 12 months. At that time his long bone growth is complete. If you wish to change brands at this time, choose a good quality food mixing it in slowly with the Paw Tree until he is acclimated to his new food. Remember that any change in food and your puppy will have gastrointestinal upset which will interfere in housebreaking progress. Otherwise, puppies need to be fed times a day. Plenty of fresh water should be available all day, especially during meals. They are at risk and most prone to drowning. Many pups will leap before they look or simply fall in. Their inexperience, curiosity and fearlessness prompt them to explore but are usually unable to climb out of even small bodies of water. The steep sides of pools and hot tubs are especially dangerous. Your Doodle comes from two breeds that adore a swim and the water is just about the best thing there is, but until they are old enough to find their way out of it, supervision is a must. You will have to teach them where the pool steps or exits are located and help them learn how to navigate their way to safety. Biting When puppies play with one another and explore, they use their mouths; they naturally do the same when they interact with people. Biting in puppies is absolutely normal and therefore a challenge to convince your new pup that it is not acceptable behavior to treat his human as he would his littermate. Do not forget when teaching your pup not to bite, that nipping and mouthing is simply common puppy behavior and that the worst thing you can do is physically punish a pup for something that is natural for him. Discouraging this natural behavior can be trying at times however take solace in the fact that once puppies acquire their adult teeth this behavior disappears. Most normal puppy biting just goes away on its own. Labradoodles are not known for being mouthy dogs so keep in mind that this stage does have an end. Meanwhile, the best approach to this problem is the use of positive distraction and the encouragement and praise of acceptable behavior. Have a favorite toy at the ready and get those teeth into something other than your hand, toe or shoe. Blowing in their face will distract them as well. Building a good relationship on trust rather than fear will create a bond with your puppy that will last his entire lifetime. Your puppy only has you. Be Responsible: When walking your puppy in public places…. Take Time to Read the Book: Even if you have experience with puppies and are sure there is nothing new about raising and loving a puppy. Read the book. You will learn a new trick or two! Enjoy Patricia McConnell- her sensible, charming and good humored approach to training is refreshing. If you leave here with it, it will always be mine. Family Labradoodles. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Labradoodles, one of the earliest of all the Doodles, make terrific family pets. These loveable dogs are great with adults and children alike. However, early Labradoodle training and socialization are critical to their development. They require a calm yet firm and consistent hand to ensure they know how to act both in and away from home. With a bit of research, some hard work, and a little patience, you can develop a secure, loving, and mutually respectful relationship with your pet. Below we have outlined different types of training, listed a few must-have items, and have included some top tips for dealing with common obedience issues. Training is the very last thing on your mind as they wriggle sweetly about in your arms and lick your nose. You just want them to feel happy and loved with their new family, right? Well, guess what… the very best way to make your new canine friend feel quickly at home with you is to establish clear boundaries from the get-go. This is more about setting ground rules so as to not leave them confused when they are allowed to do something one day and suddenly not the next. Training is all about developing a consistent routine. For example, make sure to feed your new puppy and let them out to do their business at the same times each day. This all goes towards helping them feel comfortable and secure in their new environment. The owner would do everything they could to establish their alpha status over their dog and use this status to control them. As our knowledge of dogs has improved, we have moved away from intimidation and coercion for shaping long-term positive behaviors. We know now that it may seem effective in the short term, but the end result is a fearful pet that is more likely to lash out when they feel uncomfortable. Many modern methods encourage good behavior rather than discouraging bad behavior — although this is done in slightly different ways. Despite what some trainers may tell you, there is no one-size-fits-all method for training your dog. Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement is based on the theory that dogs will repeat any actions for which they are rewarded. Treats, verbal praise, and play can all be used to mold behavior. This method also focuses on developing positive associations with both you and with training that will have your pup clamoring to learn even more. With this style of training, unwanted actions are simply ignored. The idea behind this is that owner attention is simply another form of reward — whether you are telling your pet that they are being good or bad. Not acknowledging an unwanted behavior removes the positive reinforcement, so it is less likely to be repeated. The issue with this is that some bad actions can be their own reward, e. In such circumstances, the owner might respond by removing a favored treat or toy. This is known as negative punishment. It differs from positive punishment, which would be shouting and hitting. Clicker Training Reliant on the same principles as positive reinforcement, clicker training is often utilized by professional trainers. Best for Clicker Training Compare Products Benefits of the clicker include marking the exact point at which your dog does what you want them to do. In this way, they will know precisely what they are being rewarded for. With long-term use, the sound itself can even become the treat — your pup will derive pleasure from a job well done. However, your dog needs to first be trained to associate the clicker with a treat. This is done by asking them to carry out a behavior they are already familiar with, using the clicker when they do, and promptly administering the treat. Any issues with the dog are considered to be the fault of the owner. The dog is simply a mirror in the process, reflecting what the owner is doing and feeling. The owner needs to figure out what they are doing wrong. Similarly, a dog that has developed a close attachment with its owner will mimic their actions in order to please them. If they sit on the ground, their pup will copy them — they are learning by example. This copying behavior also extends to other dogs that they have an attachment to, so proper socialization is vital to the process. Another important aspect of this method is allowing the dog the freedom to develop and make the best use of their natural instincts. Dogs are often trained off the leash, and much of the training and associated games focus on hunting, defending, and retrieving. In this way a strong bond is developed between the dog and the owner. Relationship-Based Training This hybrid of other training styles also relies on a strong connection between a dog and its owner. It depends upon this cooperative relationship to achieve mutually beneficial results. However, relationship-based training does require greater patience than other methods, especially in the early stages while the bond is formed. They also need to understand what motivates the animal and make effective use of this knowledge. While positive reinforcements are applied, the owner also sets their pet up for success by carefully controlling their environment. Training will first occur in a quiet place free from distractions and new puppies will have their house access limited while toilet training. By far, the biggest requirement is high-value rewards to reinforce behavior. By high-value rewards, we mean things that your pup absolutely loves. Best Training Treats These can be a good option. However, moderation is essential with snacks. Go for healthier options and consider alternative reward options like toys. The latter is particularly recommended for training, for younger dogs that still pull on the leash, and for giving you a lot more control of a more powerful pup. Many seasoned dog owners also swear by crates for things like toilet training , for making traveling with your pet that much easier, or for just giving them a place to call home. Yet, it also means that they will happily run rings around you if you let them. The sad truth is that plenty of beautiful but boisterous Doods have ended up being kicked out of their new home because their inexperienced owner did not know how to properly train them. Here are a few issues you may encounter while teaching your Labby D the right way to behave in your home and around your family. They are opportunistic eaters and will happily chow down on whatever they can get their cute little paws on. While counter surfing may seem funny the first time it happens, it can quickly become super frustrating. Probably the most effective way to prevent your dog from stealing food is to just remove temptation in the first place. Use positive reinforcement methods to help your pup understand what is expected of them. Avoid giving them mixed messages by feeding them off the counter or table you are trying to prevent them from jumping up to. Jumping Up Most Doodles, Labby ones in particular, are incredibly sociable dogs, but they need to learn how to behave around other animals and especially around people. Socialization training is a key aspect of getting your dog ready to be out in the real world. The more people they meet and spend time with, the less exciting it will all seem. Over-excitement is usually what lies behind jumping up behaviors and barking ones covered below. Pushing the dog down is the natural response, but to them this is all part of the game. Instead, you need to withdraw attention. Simply turn and walk away. You might then encourage your pup to sit when new people approach them and ask that the person only pets them when they are doing this. Barking Labradoodles are not usually nuisance barkers. If they are spending a lot of time making noise, chances are something is seriously upsetting them. Barking can signal everything from boredom to separation anxiety. This can help you understand how best to manage it. Socialization can make your pooch feel more comfortable around people, and other dogs, while access to toys may make them happier about being left home alone. Training can then be used to encourage your dog to refrain from barking. As with other unwanted behaviors, avoid rewarding them with your attention when they are barking. Provide them with treats only when they are quiet and calm. You may also want to train them to respond to a command that will tell them to quit barking. Pulling on The Leash Leash pulling can be a major issue for most canines before they walk properly to heel — young, excitable Labradoodles are no exception. Walking calmly at a much slower pace than they would like does not come naturally to canines. Pulling is also self-rewarding for dogs. They are getting to where they want to be, often at a quicker pace than before. However, this daily tug-of-war is likely to be far less fun for you and your poor arm. The quicker you can get your pet leash trained, the better. When they start to pull, simply stop and wait for them to return to your side before moving on again. See Also: Click the image Digging Digging is another activity that many active dogs love. This behavior can be difficult to combat because the digging itself is the reward — it can be a lot of fun for them. There are several possible solutions to prevent your back yard constantly resembling a churned-up cow field. The easiest one is to keep your pal stimulated and occupied. Up your exercise game — throwing in active play alongside frequent walks to keep them plenty busy. Finally, you might consider providing your pup with their own special place to dig and encouraging them through positive reinforcement to restrict this behavior to that part of the garden. In our experience, it does seem to work…until they simply find a new place to dig. Good thing poop is abundant! Biting and Mouthing Nipping and chewing are normal puppy play behaviors done with love and fun in mind. Aggressive biting in this breed signals an often serious underlying issue. Puppies will lightly bite their playmates as part of a game. Older dogs will rarely engage in such behaviors. Chewing, on the other hand, could be a sign that your young dog is teething , or that your adult dog is bored. Determining which one your dog is doing and identifying the possible reasons why are crucial. Both teething and boredom chewing is usually easily cured by providing appropriate chew toys. Biting especially in older dogs could indicate that they are stressed, fearful, or in pain. Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with further support with this issue. Eating non-food items is not just antisocial, it could result in some pretty serious health problems, including intestinal blockage that requires surgery. However, they can be pretty good fun to chew. Chances are your pooch is just looking for something fun to do to relieve their boredom. Dogs also instinctually chew to keep their teeth clean and their jaws strong and healthy. The simple solution as covered with avoiding chewing behaviors is to substitute your socks for a much more interesting-looking chew toy. Then aim to keep your socks and other chewables well out of their reach — especially dirty ones which seem to be by far the bigger draw. Consistency is crucial for helping your dog to understand the rules of this game. Get into a fast pattern of letting them out at the same times each day first thing in the morning and last thing at night are both vital and taking them to the place you would prefer they relieved themselves. Keep in mind that there will be accidents and setbacks — there always are, but given time your dog will learn. Refrain from punishing or reprimanding your pet when they do slip up, as this could make them anxious, which will make the problem even worse. See Also: Click the image Professional Obedience Training For Dogs If your dog is exhibiting many naughty behaviors, it may be time to seek professional help. Oftentimes, at-home obedience training for puppies is combined with professional training or puppy classes. You can access these amazing resources and professionals from anywhere, to help you have the most well-behaved Doodle around. Need help with training? This makes them much easier to train than other breeds. The fact that they are so people-focused means they usually enjoy learning new skills and tricks. How do you discipline a Labradoodle? Disciplining dogs is rather an old-fashioned idea based on erroneous notions about how dogs live in the wild. However, some owners may discourage bad behavior by removing a treat or favorite toy for a while or by withdrawing their attention. What is the best way to train a Labradoodle? There is no best way to train any dog. Most owners swear by rewarding good behavior with treats, games, praise, or using a clicker to help your dog better understand when they are doing something right. However, it takes time and practice to find the right method and to get it to work for the both of you. A fair amount of patience is needed — especially in those very early days. Your little baby is not going to understand everything you are trying to teach them right off the bat.

Adding product to your cart This product can be downloaded for free in Craft Clubhouse. If you have purchased Craft Clubhouse, click here to find out how to download this product for free. Not a Craft Clubhouse member? Click here to find out more. I think the design could also work well for other Doodle breeds and mixed breed dogs, such as: Cockapoos, Goldendoodle, Cavachon, Cavapoo and more. The one in the photographs was cut at 7. You can cut the file with any material that your cutting machine can safely use. The photographs on this listing show the design cut with gsm card stock. You must unzip the downloaded folder before you can use the files. This is one where the filename ends in. All the layers are grouped, so you can easily resize them all at the same time and they will all stay in proportion with each other. A full assembly guide PDF file is included which show the order in which to stick the layers together. After purchase, you'll be emailed a link to join the group. This product can be downloaded for free in Craft Clubhouse. The term dates back to at least [1] but was unpopular at the time. Labradoodles are, wrongfully so, considered a good choice for people with canine dander allergies, even though most dogs produced from this mix will shed. Hair, saliva, and even bodily fluids can cause allergic reactions in humans. However, they also state that hip and elbow dysplasia are common problems affecting Labradoodles. He mistakenly took credit for naming the Labradoodle in .Perspective owners of this mix should be aware that not every dog will have a calm and sweet demeanor, as it is far more likely the owner will get a dog who has high grooming requirements, high mental and physical needs, as well as dogs who have skin, eye, heart, elbow, hip, and thyroid issues common to this mix. For example, a Labrador-Poodle mix named Fang had a recurring role on the Get Smart show starting in .Conron hoped that the combination of the low-shedding coat of the poodle, along with the gentleness and trainability of a Labrador retriever, would provide a guide dog suitable for people with allergies to fur and dander. He also felt he was to blame for "creating a Frankenstein ", adding that problems were being bred into the dogs rather than selectively breeding away from problems and towards a recognizable standard. He is further quoted as claiming: "For every perfect one, you're going to find a lot of crazy ones. Conron was referring to the craze he initiated of unscrupulous breeders crossing Poodles with multiple other breeds to create " designer" dogs in order to take advantage of the "doodle" trend. Follow-on guide-dog breeding programs[ edit ] A group of Labradoodle assistance dogs Currently, as with other mixed breeds, [14] Labradoodles are not considered a purebred or breed by the AKC and other major kennel club associations in North America and across the world. Technically, they are a hybrid of two pure breeds rather than a new breed. However, in the AKC began allowing owners of mixed breeds to register their dogs through an alternative listing program to receive an AKC ID number. Guide Dogs Victoria no longer breeds Labradoodles; [10] however, they are bred by other guide and assistance dog organizations in Australia and elsewhere. Their first, Jonnie, graduated in November .Breeders in Australia have gone on to develop the Australian Labradoodle which also includes spaniels in the mix for early generations of the mix. However even these dogs can have widely varying coats and temperaments. They vary widely dog to dog, from low shedding like a Poodle to high shedding much like a Labrador. These dogs are not hypoallergenic, and contrary to popular belief do, in fact, shed. Australian Labradoodles come in standard large , medium, and mini size. However these sizes are not well defined and thus can vary largely. The crown prince and princess of Norway own Labradoodles. The first crossing of a poodle with a Labrador does result in variations in terms of appearance, size, coat, and temperament. So while most Labradoodles share some common traits, their appearance and behavioral characteristics can and often will be widely variable. These dogs are considered to be double coated, which often results in extreme matting when the dogs are not properly brushed every day. This is because the undercoat of the typical labradoodle will be straight, like that of a Labrador, while the outer coat will be curly, like that of a Poodle. This results in hair that can easily get trapped and cause extreme discomfort, pain, and even limb loss in dogs with extreme matting. It is imperative for perspective owners and current owners of this mix alike to understand and meet the grooming needs of this mix. Labradoodles often display an affinity for water and strong swimming ability from their parent breeds. These coats generally appear with the Labradoodle having a flat coat without the curls the dogs are known for. A Labradoodle with an undesirable coat may look more like its Labrador retriever mother or father with a longer nose. These dogs may also have curly fur around the legs and tail. Breeding line issues[ edit ] There is no consensus as to whether breeders should aim to have Labradoodles recognized as a breed. Some breeders prefer to restrict breeding to produce F1 hybrids bred from a poodle and Labrador rather than, e. F2 hybrids bred from two Labradoodles to ensure relatively uniform genetics among the Labradoodles, while maximizing genetic diversity of individual dogs to avoid inherited health problems that have plagued some inbred dog breeds. Black Labradoodle Others are breeding Labradoodle to Labradoodle over successive generations, and trying to establish a new dog breed. These dogs are usually referred to as multigenerational multigen Labradoodles or multigeneration Australian Labradoodles. Two Irish water spaniels and soft-coated Wheaten Terriers were used in some Australian Labradoodle lines. Curly Coated Retrievers were used too, but these lines were unsatisfactory and are no longer used for breeding. Infusions occur with early generation breedings. Multigeneration breedings do not use any breed other than Australian Labradoodle to Australian Labradoodle. Australian Labradoodles also generally have poodles and Labradors in their pedigrees that come from European lines, whereas other Labradoodle lines tend to rely heavily on American stock. Thus the frequent misnomer of "American" Labradoodle when referring generically to a Labradoodle. Coat texture and color[ edit ] Labradoodle coats are divided into three categories: wool, fleece, or hair. Wool and hair coats do not apply other than to early generation Labradoodles. Labradoodles' coat colors include chocolate, cafe, parchment, cream, gold, apricot, red, black, silver, chalk, lavender, and blue-ish gray. Coat patterns can be solid, white abstract markings, parti, phantom, or tri-coloured. There are three main types of the coat texture of a Labradoodle. This can be a hair, fleece, or wool. Poodles and Labrador retrievers can have hip dysplasia , and should have specialist radiography to check for this problem before breeding. The parent breeds can also have a number of eye disorders, and an examination by a qualified veterinary eye specialist should be performed on breeding dogs. Joint dysplasia[ edit ] Elbow dysplasia is a known common issue in the parent breeds, similar to hip dysplasia. This issue becomes more prevalent as a result of rapid growth during the puppy stage. One study has found that UK Labradoodles have a higher incidence 4. Cataracts are common as well 3. Going well beyond traditional animal control, Animal Enforcement Officers address animal-related issues and are working to improve the quality of life for animals and people in DeKalb County. A few important reminders are summarized below as the weather warms up this spring. Cold Weather Tips If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, you must provide a well-insulated doghouse with its opening facing south. Openings should include heavy duty, but flexible, flaps to reduce cold wind drafts. Place straw inside, and avoid using towels and blankets which easily dampen and make the space colder. Also, provide plenty of food and fresh water as your pet is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as in the summer. Outside water bowls will freeze, so check and refill them often. Wearing A Leash Did you know that it is illegal to have your dog off leash when off your property? Pet guardians are required to have dogs leashed and under their control at all times when you're not on your property. Dogs are only allowed off leash at specifically designated off-leash dog parks. Abandonment It is illegal to knowingly abandon, or to aid in the abandonment of, any domesticated animal on any property located in unincorporated DeKalb County. If you need help with a pet, we can help. Contact pethelp dekalbanimalservices. Food Sources Remember our trash is their treasure. Secure garbage cans and remove pet food bowls if you feed your pets outside. Chili powder is non-toxic yet effective for deterring wildlife around your home. Eliminate outdoor water sources. Barking Dogs We encourage citizens to try to speak with their neighbors first before submitting a barking dog complaint. Often times, the owners are not aware their dog is creating a disturbance and are happy to correct the problem without having an authority visit their home. It is common to encounter young wildlife that may appear to be unattended during the spring and summer months. The adult animal is typically nearby. Deer, for example, will spend most of the day away from their young to reduce the risk of a predator finding them. Only reach out to animal authorities if you observe the young wildlife unattended for more than 24 hours. Coyotes Female coyotes give birth in the spring and may become more aggressive due to being territorial if you are in the vicinity of their pups. Yelling, loud noises, water hoses, whistles, and throwing objects will scare them away. Food sources Remember our trash is their treasure. On a hot day, the temperature inside a closed car can rise as high as degrees. If you come across an animal alone in a car, and the outside temperature is above 70 degrees, please immediately call DeKalb County Animal Enforcement or Police Services. Barking dogs We encourage citizens to try to speak with their neighbors first before submitting a barking dog complaint. We are the largest animal welfare organization in Georgia. We look at the root causes of pet homelessness and work with our community to provide accessible pet care. Our goal is to keep people and pets together. Learn More below for steps to take and helpful resources.

Like many small dog breeds, Pugs reach their full size faster than medium to large-sized dogs. Pugs reach their adult size around nine months of age but may continue to put on a small amount of muscle until they are a year old. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Pug be? A six-month-old Pug will weigh between 7 and 12 pounds on average and will be close to their full adult height, which is typically around 10 to 13 inches tall. Pugs are highly prone to putting on excess weight and their food intake needs to be monitored closely. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, winter and summer safety, and more! How much bigger will my Pug get? Pugs reach their full size around nine months of age but may continue filling out until they are a year old. If your Pug is younger than nine months old, they are definitely still growing! If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, they are likely still growing. This is a classic puppy feature that indicates that more growth is needed. A puppy will rarely grow to be larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Pug? According to the American Kennel Club Official Pug Standards , you can expect a full-grown Pug to weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and stand 10 to 13 inches tall. A full-grown Pug will appear compact and solid, rather than lean and leggy. If your Pug continues to put on weight past 18 pounds, reach out to your veterinarian to assess whether your Pug is putting on excessive weight. If your Pug weighs more than 18 pounds, consult with your veterinary professional to ensure that they are at their healthiest weight. Pugs are especially prone to heatstroke due to their compromised breathing. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to lessening the side effects of brachycephalic syndrome. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct narrow nostrils or elongated soft palettes. Many veterinary treatments and procedures cost thousands of dollars. When surveyed, Only .This is a crucial factor in why pet insurance is so valuable to pet parents. Pet insurance reimburses you a percentage of your out of pocket expenditure for veterinary bills. Not only can pet insurance provide you peace of mind should surgery or treatments be needed, but available wellness plans can significantly reduce the cost of routine veterinary exams or maintenance, like dog teeth cleaning or x-rays. Your veterinarian is your greatest resource in keeping your pup happy and healthy. Continue making healthy lifestyle choices, like daily exercise and a nutritious diet, for your Pug to keep them active and living their best life! Unfortunately, Pugs are prone to a larger number of health issues due to their brachycephalic syndrome and other genetic predispositions. 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. Overview When you have a dog from the age of a young pup, this gives you a wonderful opportunity. It offers you a chance to bond with your dog from the very beginning. This also gives you an advantage because you will be able to train and teach your pup what they need to know before they learn any bad behavior from elsewhere. This section will discuss how to care for a Pug puppy, starting at 8 weeks old and up until he or she is an adult, at the age of 1 year. Transition to a New Home Things will run much smoother if you plan ahead and have most, if not all, of your puppy care items already in your home. Here are the most important items to have: A crate — One with an adjustable size is best to fit the needs of a growing Pug puppy. Crating is a good night time method to use until a pup is housebroken. Gates or a playpen — Choosing an area to gate off or using a canine playpen are good options for when you must leave your Pug puppy home alone or for when you cannot be right at his side. This keeps the pup in a controlled space which helps in regard to bathroom needs and keeping a puppy in one area when he or she has strong chewing urges. Puppy food — This should be obtained before the puppy is brought home. Owners will not always agree with the food that a puppy has been being fed, however any change should be done gradually. Have the food that the Pug has been used to eating on hand, as well as your new choice. Details regarding making this change can be found here: Feeding a Pug. You'll also want them to be sized appropriately and at floor level. Honey — Puppies are prone to the condition of hypoglycemia, which is a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Stress, among other things, can bring this on and while going to a new home is a happy event, it can also be stressful for a little pup that is leaving all that he knew and no longer has the companionship and friendship of his litter-mates. Treatment can be provided at home as plans are being made to bring the puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinarian. A small dab of honey is rubbed onto the gums and then the puppy should receive professional treatment, sometimes an IV to restore sugar levels back to normal. Leash, collar and harness — Pugs are prone to conditions that involve breathing problems. The body structure of this breed confines breathing passages into a small space and Pugs can have smaller than normal nasal passages and openings stenotic nares. For this reason, using a harness can help a Pug breathe easier when on leash. A short 6 foot leash works best for both potty training and heeling. Read more : Choosing the Best Collar and Harness for a Pug Grooming supplies — The thick coat of a Pug sheds heavily and brushing it well and offering baths on a regular basis can help control shedding. Starting dental care at a young age can help a puppy become used to this grooming element and set up a foundation for a life time of good dental hygiene practices. Keeping the wrinkles, eyes and ears clean are important part of caring for a Pug puppy. Read more: Shedding - Expect your Pug to shed a lot and be prepared by having the right tools. Dental care - Taking care of your Pug's teeth should be high on your priority list. Ears - Expected shapes and proper care. Wrinkles - Keeping the wrinkles dry and clean. Sleeping supplies - Some owners prefer to have their puppy sleep in the bed with them and while this is not always a bad thing, an owner should think about how that will play out as the pup matures into a much larger adult dog. Having a pup get used to his own canine bed from the beginning, set up in a quiet corner of a room, may work out best. Do keep in mind that Pugs crave human companionship and do not like to feel isolated. Setting up the bed in a quiet corner of a well-used room allows a Pug to have a nice area to retreat to for rest and sleep while allowing him to be close to his human family. It will be normal for a little one to sleep anywhere from 16 to 18 hours a day.This included both night time sleep and naps that will be taken throughout the day. Chew Toys — Teething will begin around the age of 3 or 4 months old and can last up until a Pug puppy is 8 months old. Having a good supply of toys on hand for a puppy to chew on is important. Puppy Proofing Before bringing a puppy home and on a regular basis at least weekly owners are encouraged to go over all floors to remove any small objects that could be accidentally swallowed. All items that could be chewed on such as pocket books and shoes should be placed up high until the Pug has matured. Whining It is normal for very young puppies to cry when first brought to a new home, this usually only lasts for a week or so as the pup becomes used to his new family and environment. This can also be a sign of needing to go to the bathroom, so following house training guidelines, be sure to take your Pug puppy outside on a regular basis. Vaccinations for the Pug Puppy An important part of caring for your puppy will be to make sure he or she is up-to-date for all needed vaccinations. An 8-week-old should already have received his shots, as well as a de-worming. Veterinarians will have varying schedules, however this is a general guideline: 5 weeks Parvovirus: For puppies at high risk of exposure to parvo, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating at 5 weeks. Dogs at high risk are those that live in areas where wild life raccoon, skunk, deer, etc. The inclusion of either canine adenovirus-1 or adenovirus-2 in a vaccine will protect against both adenovirus cough and hepatitis; adenovirus-2 is highly preferred. You will want to talk to your veterinarian about this. Reactions to Vaccines Immunizations are intended to stimulate the immune system to then protect a dog against a specific infectious disease. It is very important to have your Pug receive all needed vaccinations. Your Pug may react to immunizations in ways that range from soreness at the site of injection to mild fever to allergic reactions. The allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Mild- Mild reactions include fever, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. Mild reactions usually resolve without any treatment needed. This is called Urticaria. This happens when there is a reaction of the skin and shows as hives or bumps. It is usually extremely itchy. Urticaria may progress to anaphylaxis, which is considered life-threatening. However, Urticaria is the most common reaction in dogs if a reaction is to happen. Severe - The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This is a very fast, sudden, severe allergic response that causes breathing difficulties, collapse and possible death. This is very rare. Urticaria the moderate and most common reaction, if one is to occur happens soon after vaccination, often even before the puppy is brought home. It can happen in the car while you are driving back to your house. Your veterinarian will recommend immediate return to the hospital for treatment. Urticaria is usually treated successfully with injectable corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone. Antihistamines do little to help with acute allergic reactions but may be given by injection to help prevent recurrence of symptoms after steroids wear off. Mild vaccination reactions usually require no treatment. However, if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. Growth Rate A Pug puppy grows quickly and this can happen gradually or with spurts and stops. Many Pug puppies have a growth spurt near the 3 to 5 month mark. As the pup nears the 1 year mark, growth will slow down. Once a Pug reaches his or her full height, there may still be some growth in the width of the Pug, as the chest widens and fills out. How a Pug ages and his growth is rapid, yet can be staggered during the first year. Getting Your Puppy Comfortable One of the most important parts of bringing a puppy home is allowing him or her to become used to their new surroundings. Allow your pup to roam around and check out his new environment. Be sure to keep a puppy's water in one designed spot so that the pup can know that it can always be found. The drinking and feeding area should be in a quite corner of a room, without much foot traffic or noise, since small puppies can feel vulnerable while eating. The absolute longest that a 2 month old pup can hold their needs is 2 hours. The bladder and bowel muscles are not yet fully developed. As they grow older, this time will increase as they have more control over their body. Usually it will increase by 1 hour for each month that goes by. Therefore, a 3 month old can hold on for about 3 hours, a 4 month old for about 4 hours and so on.With 8 hours being the maximum time for any age. Informational Note: When your 2 month old needs to go outside at least every 2 hours, be sure to not get stuck into that habit.It is important to slowly increase the time intervals. Your 3 month old can wait about 3 hours, but only if you allow the pup to use his bowel and bladder muscles to work and grow stronger. If an owner always brought their Pug outside every 2 hours, the dog would never learn to hold their needs for a longer period of time. Keep reading about the best way to house train a Pug puppy. All puppy vaccinations should be given before you take him or her out to the park, to pet supply stores or any other area in which there may have been or could be other animals. Many new owners already have another dog in the household. As your puppy grows older and is receiving the needed vaccinations, you can slowly begin introducing your new puppy to other dogs and allow normal socialization to begin. The Necessities of Care To have a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into a happy and healthy adult dog, make sure to always provide the essentials: A proper diet. You will need to decide if you want to offer manufacture food, home cooked food or a combination of both. Pugs are very sensitive to their human's emotions. A hug goes a long way! 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. As newborns they are deaf, bind, and largely immobile. They rely on their mom, or their breeder for food, warmth, and care. A Pug is Born! Unfortunately, the birthing process of Pugs is a difficult one. Flat-faced breeds, such as the Pug, are more likely to experience complications when giving birth. The Pug is also more likely to experience Dystocia, which is simply a term that means difficult or abnormal birth. Such situations put both the mother and her pups at risk. More often than not, the mother will require her pups to be delivered by a C-section. This is due to the fact that unborn Pugs have large and broad heads, whilst their mom has a very narrow pelvis. This awkward combination makes natural birth difficult. If the birth is successful, Pugs commonly have litters containing puppies, with 4 pups being the average. If your baby Pug is born naturally, their mother will next turn to chewing off the umbilical cord and cleaning them up. This is an important part of the bonding experience for mother dogs. The newborn Pugs will often nurse from their mother. When they are not nursing, they will spend the majority of their time sleeping. Newborn Pugs Pug pups begin their life fully reliant on their mother. They are born blind, deaf, and without teeth. A coat should be present, with the color being commonly either fawn or black. Fawn pups may experience their coat color lightening or darkening in shade as they mature. Their eyes and ears will be closed at birth and will remain this way for a while yet. Unable to support their own body weight, they will crawl on their stomach to get around. Baby Pugs are also not able to regulate their temperature, meaning that it is very important to stay warm. They will commonly clump together in piles, sharing body heat. Finally, the mother will also have to help her pups urinate and defecate as they are unable to do so by themselves. She does this by licking the anal and genital areas. One Week Old Baby Pug During the first week of life, baby Pug pups will either be nursing off their mother or sleeping. As they are still blind and deaf at this stage, they will not bother exploring or moving around more than necessary, spending most of their time lying close to their littermates and mother. Their weight should steadily increase every day. At the end of their first week of life, they should have doubled their birth weight, or at least come close. The owners of the pups will need to keep an eye on their breathing as brachycephalic breeds, such as the Pug, commonly have breathing issues. Two Week Old Baby Pug As we hit two weeks of age, we see a key development in the puppies growth; their eyes will open for the very first time! To begin with, their eye color will be blue, but will likely transition into a dark brown as they mature. Owners need to check over their eyes to ensure there are no issues, as this breed can be susceptible to ocular problems. At this stage, they may be a little more curious about their surroundings due to their newfound eyesight. However, they will still primarily be focused on sleeping and nursing. Their weight should continue to rise steadily over the coming weeks. By this time, the ears of the baby Pug pups will have opened. They will be able to hear for the first time and will begin reacting to more sounds. Their eyesight will also have developed significantly, with them being able to recognize their mother, littermates, and objects placed in their den. Along with their newfound perception of the world, they should now be able to support their own body weight and stand up. They may be able to walk, albeit with an unsteady gait. With all the interesting sights and sounds around them, they will likely be a lot more inquisitive of their surroundings. They may explore the den as much as their wobbly legs will carry them. The Pug puppies will also start teething, with their baby teeth coming through for the first time. This may start a passing interest in solid food. Gaining Independence On top of all this, they should now be able to urinate and defecate on their own, without any stimulation from their mother. We can also expect to see the start of the early socialization period. The puppies will begin developing behaviors and social skills for the first time, taking part in play with their littermates. Owners of the puppies should take advantage of this period to help them get used to human touch and presence. They will be establishing relationships with their mother, den mates, and people. Training can begin at this early stage. Despite the fact that their brains still have a lot of developing to do, a start can still be made on teaching them basic crate and potty training. They will also likely be much more mobile on their feet. Little adventures will be common and the puppies will play together often. Soft, easy to eat puppy food can be given. They will continue to rise in weight and keep learning social skills, with more complex behaviors being shown. While they seem a lot more independent at this stage, they will still require plenty of time with their mother and den mates before they are ready to be moved to a new home. Six Week Old Baby Pug At six weeks old, the Pug puppies are fast approaching the age where they reach full independence. By now, they should be fully weaned off their mother and placed onto solid food only. This is a big step. There is still much to learn. Up until now, the Pug puppies have been very curious and interested in completely new things. But they have always been safe under the watchful eye of their mom, too. Now, as they finally gain independence, the puppies learn to be cautious and careful; traits that keep them alive in the wild. Eight Week Old Baby Pug At eight weeks old, the Pug pups are developed enough to be able to leave their mother and littermates behind. They can be sold and moved into a new loving home. They should weigh around pounds. Training and Raising a Pug Resources Keep in mind that they still have a lot of developing to do; both physically and mentally! Remember, they are still within their fear period! Things learned here will make a big impact. But the sad part of the story is that just like any other dog, pugs get obese very quickly. As they say, you become what you eat. Since the pug is a tiny dog, even one extra pound will affect its appearance. For this reason, it becomes important to keep a check on what your pug is eating. The present article talks about the feeding guidelines of this adorable dog: How much is too much? It is very important to feed your dog the correct amount of food to ensure that the pug is getting enough calories for proper growth. Any deviation from the right amount will led to health problems in a pug. Age, activity, metabolism and build of a dog are the major factors on which the amount of food which should be given to a dog depends. Also, the type of food you are giving to a dog is another important factor. If you are feeding home cooked food to one pug and commercial dog food to another dog with same age, build and activity level, it is not necessary that both of them will consume the same amount. As a general rule of thumb, a puppy pug should be given 1 ounce of food per one pound of body weight. For adult pugs, the amount is halved. What about calories? A pug puppy which is in his growth phase requires more calories than adult and senior pugs. On an average, a puppy requires 50 calories per pound of their body weight while an adult pug requires 40 calories per pound of their body weight. Senior pugs need fewer calories because of slow metabolism and less activity level. Free feeding is not recommended to the pug. The following table illustrates the right feeding regime and meal frequency for pugs: Age Amount of food given at one time No.

Their typical duties ranged from guarding livestock, to herding, to keeping rats at bay. They share a common ancestry with the Irish Terrier and the Kerry Blue Terrier, but this breed was typically owned by middle-to-lower class citizens. It took until for the breed to be recognized by the AKC, where they now compete in obedience, tracking, and agility competitions. Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. Eventually, Poodles made their way from the lake to the life of luxury as they were the breed of choice by French nobles, and eventually royalty across all of Europe. To this day, the Poodle is still the national dog of France. The Toy Poodle started in the United States in the early 20th century to be a city-dwelling companion dog. They originated in the United States. On top of that, the gender of the puppy and the genetics of the parents play important factors as well. With that in mind, a toy Whoodle will typically weigh between pounds and have a height of inches. A miniature Whoodle will weigh in at around pounds and stand roughly inches tall. The largest of the three, the standard Whoodle, will weigh approximately pounds and stand about inches tall. Their fur can range anywhere from straight or slightly wavy, like the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier to curly like the Poodle and usually is of medium length. A minimum of brushing once per week is required for Whoodles, with the ideal frequency being every other day if not every day for more curly-haired dogs. Are Whoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Whoodles Shed? However, due to the genetic diversity from crossing these two breeds, the result may be a lower chance of developing these inherited health concerns. Due to the cost of treating these common health concerns, we highly encourage all dog owners invest in pet insurance. We recommend getting a free online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. Whoodles are sensitive and sometimes roughhousing from other pets and kids can be too much for them. However, with the right training these dogs can make dedicated and affectionate members of your family. However, this is a very energetic breed and as a rule of thumb should get at least 60 minutes of exercise each day. More Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and Poodle Mixes Whoodle Overview No one really knows when the whoodle was first bred but given their rising popularity in the early s, we can assume it was sometime around then. However, we do know the history of the parent breeds: the Wheaten terrier and the poodle. Wheaten terriers were bred in the s in Ireland to hunt vermin on the farm. They even survived the Irish Potato Famine thanks to th e ir resilience , however their numbers declined severely. Since then their numbers were able to grow, and by the s the Irish Kennel Club recognized them as an official breed. Poodles were bred in Germany in the s as a waterfowl retriever. All attributes the poodle has today are thanks to the retriever qualities that were bred into their ancestors. The poodles charm and trainability quickly made them popular with French nobility, giving them the title of national dog of France today. Whoodles are hybrid dogs, meaning they are not recognized by the American Kennel club, however both parent breeds are. Whoodle Appearance A Poodle The Whoodle is a cross breed, meaning there is no way to know for sure what they will look like. They could look more like one parent than the other, or a complete mix of both. They tend to have the lean and muscular body of the Wheaten Terrier. Wheatens are square and sturdy terriers and tend to have a bold goatee- they are named after their color, which resembles ripening wheat. Poodles on the other hand are elegant athletes, with a smooth muscular body and a curly coat. Size and Weight The size of your Whoodle will vary depending on the size of their parents and what kind of Poodle it was bred with. The breeder will specify what Poodle they are breeding either a standard or a miniature. A standard size poodle is lb and stands over 15 inches. The miniature poodle weighs lb and stands between inches. Wheaten Terriers weighs lb and stands around inches. The size of a miniature Whoodle is roughly lb and inches. Whoodle Colors and Coat The Wheaten Terrier can pass down the classic wheaten color — depending on what line they come from, it can vary from champagne to honey, to red, brown or mahogany. Thanks to the variety of colors with Poodles, the Whoodle can come in a rainbow of colors. They can be cream, silver, red, brown or black. Their coat is the easiest part of their appearance to predict, they have medium length, dense coats. It can be either soft wavy hair or soft curly hair. The Poodle is known for its non-shedding characteristic — therefore there is a chance that the Whoodle can inherit this trait. Wheaten Terriers shed very little, but still have a shedding season. Whoodle Temperament The Whoodle is a cross breed, meaning their temperament is difficult to predict. The Poodle and the Wheaten Terrier have different personalities but there are some overlaps. Both Poodles and Wheatens are intelligent and, given their long history of working with people, they are also easy to train. Poodles The Poodle is friendly, athletic and a great companion. They are famous for their intelligence and eagerness to learn and to love. Your pooch will love to play and wants to have a good time with their family. This can make them more likely to jump and bound around. They also have a tendency to bark. Poodles are very bright and attentive, it is said they are skilled at reading body language and expressions. They can be emotionally sensitive to stress and tension within a household, and may develop separation anxiety. Wheaten Terriers These energetic extroverts have all the famous attributes a Terrier has. They are hardworking and resilient. Whilst they look adorable, do not be fooled. It is easy to become overwhelmed by their boisterous behavior. Wheaten Terriers are joyful and love to bounce about. They have a strong prey drive, just like any terrier, and will chase anything that moves. Apart from their occasional unruly behavior, they are very cheerful and love to socialize with others. When encountering strangers they can become guarded, but once reassured by their human, they quickly become friendly! Whoodles So what does this mean for your Whoodle? The Whoodle can be a good family dog it really depends on how they are trained and socialized. They may inherit the boisterous behavior of the Wheaten Terrier but can be socialized and trained to keep it to a minimum. They will love playtime with kids, as long as you supervise them. Wheaten Terriers have a strong prey drive and will instinctively chase and herd small children. This is not aggressive; however it can become a problem if left unchecked. How to Train a Whoodle Whoodles are highly intelligent, meaning they are fairly easy to train. However, the Wheaten Terrier can be stubborn and unwilling to listen at times. They are pack driven, so make sure you let them know who is in charge — be firm and consistent but never punish them. Keep your behavior consistent and they will start to pick it up. You should start dog training as soon as possible — their brain is developing rapidly at this time. Early socialization is crucial as it prevents aggression in later years and can stop their herding instincts on small children. Taking them to puppy classes will prevent fearful behavior around un-natural noises, such as traffic or unfamiliar situations. Positive reinforcement is best for training, whenever your dog follows your command or stops an unwanted behavior, give them a treat. They may however have a personal preference on what treat they like best, they may be food orientated or they may love some praise. Or a bit of both, you could mix it up a little! Every dog needs mental stimulation, including the Whoodle. The best time for playtime is after a training session. They will love playing games, you could play chase if you have the space. Or you could put that Poodle intelligence up to the test and give them a puzzle toy that dispenses food. Caring for a Whoodle This cross breed is suited for a range of people: families, couples or singles. They will love anyone and everything! As a dog with terrier genes, they will be very energetic, meaning they need a lot of activity throughout the day. However, they could also inherit a Wheaten coat where shedding season may cause an issue. There is no way of knowing in advance. Exercise Requirements As said before, they can be different sizes. Their size will determine how much exercise they need. If you are more active, a standard one will be more your style. They require at least 90 minutes of activity a day, including walks and playtime. Miniatures will need around 60 minutes a day. No matter their size, they will have the typical terrier behavior, meaning they will want to chase anything moving in eyesight. Keep them on a leash when out walking. Make sure your yard is securely fenced, as Whoodles consider themselves escape artists. Grooming and Shedding As said before, their coat is unpredictable thanks to their hybrid genes! They will also need professional haircuts; trim their bangs out of their eyes and to keep things neat and tidy. The Wheaten Terrier coat requires a lot more maintenance. Daily grooming will be needed — brush them to remove any dirt and loose hairs. As with all dogs, you should trim their nails regularly. Brush their teeth and clean their floppy ears of any wax buildup. A Poodle Cross Feeding and Diet Deciding what to feed your Whoodle is a personal choice between dry, wet, raw meat or home cooked meals, there are so many options. As long as you follow guidelines and watch out for ingredients in commercial foods, they will enjoy mealtime. They do well on high quality dry food, as long as it is made from natural ingredients and tailored to your unique Whoodle nutritional requirement based on their size. Foods must have a healthy balance of carbs, protein and fat, and should contain the right amount of vitamins and minerals. How much you feed your dog will depend on what size they are and their activity level. Keep an eye on their weight and use a body condition system to ensure they are an ideal weight. Standard size Whoodles should be fed roughly 2. Miniatures should be fed roughly 1. Spread out their meals over the day evenly, one in the morning and one in the evening. Known Health Problems Whoodles are cross-breeds, meaning genetic disorders are less prevalent than pedigrees as there is more variety in their genes. However, they still have health issues passed down from their parent breeds. Common health issues include: Epilepsy — abnormal activity in the brain causing seizures Progressive Retinal Atrophy — can lead to blindness Addisons disease — affecting the adrenal glands and hormone output Thyroid issues — can cause hypothyroidism and affect their metabolism Bloat — when the stomach twists on itself and traps air Renal dysplasia — kidneys develop abnormally leading to kidney failure With a little planning ahead you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on! This is both a blessing and a curse, as they can quickly pick up on commands during training — but only if they want to. No one knows when or where the breed started. The first designer breed was the Labradoodle, which is a combination of a Labrador and Poodle. These dogs were so popular that breeders were soon mixing Poodles with every breed under the sun, Wheaten Terriers eventually included. They come in three sizes. Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. As a result, the size of your Whoodle will depend on the size of the Poodle used to create it. Some of them are on the larger side of medium, while others are quite small indeed. Whoodles of all sizes tend to share similar personality traits, though. Their coats come in a wide assortment of colors. The most common coloring, however, is a creamy tan or wheat color. This is how most Wheaten Terriers look, and it tends to trickle down to their designer offspring as well. In fact, these dogs are so smart, they have little tolerance for foolishness from their owners. These dogs can absolutely walk all over you if they sense that they can get away with it. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, the aforementioned prey drive can cause issues if you have small children in the house. These dogs like to chase things. They have a strong pack mentality, though, so they should be welcoming of any other dogs. These dogs can be challenging, especially for first-time owners, so it behooves you to learn as much as you can about them before you bring one home. Standard Whoodles can eat a fair bit of kibble, while the toy and miniature varieties are much more budget-friendly to feed. We recommend feeding them a high-protein kibble without animal by-products or cheap filler grains like wheat and corn. This should be enough to keep them lean and healthy well into their senior years. These dogs can often experience joint problems later in life especially the bigger pups , so we recommend finding a food with glucosamine and chondroitin in it or giving your dog a supplement. You also need to go easy on the treats and scraps — and given how smart these dogs are, that can mean taking extraordinary measures to hide food. They need at least an hour of moderate physical activity per day. What these dogs crave, however, is mental stimulation. You need to tax their brains, and puzzle toys, obedience classes, and agility training are all excellent ways to do this. If you keep their minds occupied, you can skimp a little bit on fatiguing their bodies. Not overfeeding them is the most important thing, but ensuring that they burn off calories is a close second. At the very least, take them for a long walk every day. Keeping a brisk pace is important, but let them stop to sniff around too, as that works their mind and their noses, we assume. That being said, these dogs respond much better to positive reinforcement than they do criticism, so never scold or punish them. Socialization is also incredibly important for preventing future behavioral problems. Try to introduce your Whoodle to as many people, dogs, and other animals as possible, and reward them for being on their best behavior. They also need periodic haircuts, so find a groomer you trust or learn to do it yourself. You still need to trim their nails and clean their ears, same as any other dog. That being said, there are a few things you should be aware of that might afflict them at some point in their lives: Minor Conditions. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Whoodle Highlights The Whoodle is a mixed breed dog. Whoodles are enthusiastic, intelligent, and affectionate. They need exercise and attention from their humans to stay mentally and physically healthy. Whoodle coats are silky and medium length, and they require daily brushing. They can be black, brown, red, silver grey, and cream. The coat might be solid colors or could also be spotted. Whoodles are considered hypoallergenic and may be easier for allergy sufferers than other dogs. Whoodle History The Whoodle originally hit the dog scene in the mids, which makes it a relatively new breed. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers were particularly popular in Ireland, where their natural resilience allowed them to successfully survive the potato famine. Even though the Whoodle looks like a very cute and super plush designer dog, many of them end up in shelters so consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you! Whoodle Size As a relatively newer dog breed, the Whoodle may come in both small and medium sizes. Most weigh in at 20 to 45 pounds and range in height from twelve to 20 inches. That said, your Whoodle might wind up being smaller or larger than the average range. Whoodles definitely love to be surrounded by toys, and will nearly always be up for a fun-filled play session. This is one breed that always wants to be around people and craves company. Consider the Whoodle a dog who wants to be your friend. Proper and early socialization is key when living with a Whoodle. Whoodle Health Whoodles are generally considered to be healthy dogs, although they can suffer from some common health issues. Some of the more common health problems Whoodles suffer from include: Eye infections and diseases. Not only are these dogs as smart and loyal as Poodles, but they also inherit traits from the other mix. They can be as large as a fully grown Poodle or much smaller based on which side they take after more. As a designer dog breed , they are popular with owners who think they look like large teddy bears. Whoodles typically have a coat that is both curly and soft, which it gets from its Poodle parent. It has a smaller size thanks to the other parent and is sometimes called a Poodle Wheaten Terrier mix. If you want a dog you will love coming home to and one that loves you back, the Whoodle is a good choice. They are almost always cheerful and friendly and can greet you at the door after a long day with a dance and a smile. If you want to find out whether a Whoodle is a perfect dog for you, check out each section in our following guide. The dogs grew so popular there that people imported them to France, which is why many associate the breed with that country. Poodles were not always as pampered and snobby as they are today. Breeders initially worked with Poodles because they could handle a variety of jobs and were good hunters. As their coats are resistant to water, they could dive into murky lakes to flush out wild game and hunt when the weather was less than perfect. Those coats also help them in the water and might explain why Poodles love swimming so much. Poodles rank as one of the smartest dogs in the world too and are easy to train. Many farmers at the time had Irish Wolfhounds , which were large and sometimes hard to control. These dogs handled many jobs on the farm, including chasing off predators, attacking the rodents that ate the crops and other tasks associated with a watchdog. This breed also makes a good hunting dog because it listens to its master and responds to simple commands. They do well in herding activities and can quickly bring a group of animals to a safe spot. Some also used the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier as guard dogs. Though usually not used as farm dogs today, they do well in tracking and ability challenges. This type of dog is also a fast learner and affectionate towards its humans. Mysterious Beginnings No one is quite sure who the first Whoodle breeder was. We now that the first of this mixed breed appeared in the late s and early s. As they looked so similar to a traditional Poodle, some assumed that they were a different version of that breed. Though you might assume that all Whoodles act the same, their personality and temperament can vary. Some of the original breeders had a hard time figuring out how big the dogs would grow and how they would act as adults. They slowly picked the best dogs from previous litters and bred them to make dogs that shared some of the same qualities. Most of the hybrid dogs that are now available act in much the same way. Selective breeding also helped regulate the sizes and colors of these dogs and made sure that puppies would grow up to become loving adults. The American Kennel Club and similar organizations officially recognize both of the parent dogs. The AKC only recognizes purebred dogs and does not recognize any mixed or hybrid breed. This will keep you from entering your dog in any event sanctioned by that organization. You should ask the breeder how much experience they have with this breed and if the puppy belongs to a specific generation. Most breeders are so new to this area that they are on their first or second generation. Knowing the generation is important because it can help you determine how your puppy will act and look as an adult. Those from the first generation will typically take after one parent breed more than the other. This results in a dog that is larger in size or more stubborn. Breeders who have Whoodle parents can produce litters that are more regulated in terms of size, temperament and appearance. Litter Size Whoodle puppy litters typically have around five babies, but some mothers can have a total of seven or more puppies. If the mother experienced problems during her pregnancy or is small in size, she may have a smaller litter. Miniature Poodles can have as few as two to three puppies per litter. You may find Whoodle puppies and adults through Poodle rescue groups too. These rescue groups often accept mixed breed dogs as long as one of the parents was a Poodle. The group may have little information about your new dog though and have a hard time letting you know about its overall health or temperament. You may need to consent to a home visit or meet with the group too to show that you can handle the needs of the dog. Whoodle Personality Some of the terms that owners and breeders use to describe this dog include smart, loyal and playful. Known as a family dog due to how easily they take to training, they can love you as much as you love them. Whoodles are so smart that they learn to love the training sessions that you hold at home. Not only do they love learning new things, but they also like when you reward them and are affectionate. While the puppies are easy to train, you should keep in mind that they require quite a bit of attention. A new puppy might jump all over you at night because it prefers to sleep in your bed than a crate. Your Mini Whoodle puppy may also demand that you pet it as soon as you get home from work. As soon as you get home with a Whoodle puppy, you can start introducing it to new people as well as other animals. Whoodles are one of the only dogs that can adapt to any situation. If you have a big home with a fenced-in backyard, your dog will feel in heaven. It will love racing outside and chasing its tail around the yard at the same time that it tracks the birds and squirrels in the trees. Whoodles also do well with smaller spaces and can feel comfortable living in a tiny apartment. Family Dogs These family dogs love being around all types of people and appreciate family members of all ages. Your parents or grandparents might like that this dog enjoys long and slow days at home. Whoodles do just as well with kids because they like playing and chasing their human siblings around the house. With the right harness, your Whoodle will love long hikes and walks. You can also take this dog to the beach because it inherited a love of swimming from its Poodle side. Watch the Cat! A Whoodle might chase your old senior cat around the house and get bopped on the nose or want to pick a hamster up in its mouth. Taking the time to introduce your new dog to your old pets reduces the risk that the dog might hurt those animals. Separation Anxiety Poodles can suffer from fits of separation anxiety and passed this trait down to their Mini Whoodle offspring. If you spend six or more hours away from home daily, you should hire a dog walker or a pet sitter to take care of the dog. Daycare facilities can help too because they provide your pet with plenty of stimulation. You need to make sure that the dog has all the stimulation that it needs. How to Care for a Whoodle Mix As a companion dog, your Whoodle might want to spend more time curled up next to you and relaxing on the couch than playing outside. Based on its size, this dog needs a minimum of calories a day, which comes to one serving of dry dog food. You may need to give it more or less kibble based on its overall size. Dogs on the larger end of the spectrum need more food than those on the lower end do. If you want to know how much to feed your Whoodle, multiply its weight by 30 calories to see the total number of calories that it needs. Larger dogs may need up to 1, calories or more every day. The best Whoodle foods include those that have a nice balance of vitamins, minerals and protein. While you can split the food into two servings every day, some dogs do well on three meals a day. Stick to a puppy food until your Whoodle turns one and then switch to an adult version. Though Whoodles are playful dogs, they need less exercise and walks than you might guess. As long as you can commit to 30 minutes of exercise a day, you can care for one of these dogs. They can get by with fewer walks and more outdoor time, which is helpful for those who work full-time. You can let the dog play with its four-legged siblings during the week and take it for short walks on the weekends. Depending on their sizes, you might need to let the dog spend more or less time outside. Training a Whoodle Whoodles are so affectionate that any form of negative training will not work on them. Positive reinforcement training is much better, especially when you combine soothing words with treats and toys. They prefer treats that are different from the regular food that they eat such as jerky treats and fresh veggies. Training is also important when it comes to introducing the Whoodle to new people. Whether you have a child who brings home a friend from school or you want to introduce the dog to a family member, you need to take things slow. Let it tell you when it feels comfortable around that person. With early training from the puppy years, adult Whoodles will have an easy time adjusting to new people. This designer breed also needs daily stimulation to prevent it from acting in destructive ways. When taking trips with your pooch, try mixing up where you go instead of sticking to the same few places. They can develop hip dysplasia, which causes a change in the shape of one or more joints. It can cause the dog so much pain that it eventually becomes lame. Vets more commonly see this condition in older dogs and recommend that owners let their senior pets spend more time relaxing and less time walking. As Whoodles do not shed, they can suffer from ear infections caused by debris that becomes trapped in their ears. Debris can travel through the ear canal and cause some pain and inflammation. You might notice that the dog keeps tugging on or scratching its ears or that it winces when laying on that side. It takes just a few minutes to clean both ears once a week. Grooming a Whoodle Thanks to their hypoallergenic fur, the Whoodle is a dog that anyone can love. You only need to brush your Whoodle once a week to keep its fur soft and cuddly, but you should get the dog groomed at least once every other month. The groomer can remove or trim any excess fur inside its ears ad trim its nails too, and you can use chew toys to keep their teeth clean. Dog lovers appreciate the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier mix because it is a loving family pet that comes in different sizes. The Whoodle dog is suitable for first-time pet owners who have no experience with dogs and do well in both small and large homes. They have personality traits that make them love the people and animals around them but can have the same health problems as a Standard Poodle. If you love active dogs, try bringing home a Miniature Whoodle that loves playtime with you. Search Dog Breeds.