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Christina Tuesday 18th of April You say to expect to pay a lot for a well bred merle Frenchie from a reputable breeder but there is no such thing. If a breeder breeds Merle frenchies then that proves they are nor a reputable breeder, and it's not a well bred dog. It's not even a frenchie. The only way to get a Merle is to cross breed with a breed that naturally carries Merle Claire Johnson Sunday 28th of May Christina, these is no such thing as a well bred merle Frenchie. The terms are mutually exclusive. There are numerous health issues associated with this color. Do your research. This article even says that there's more health problems associated with Merle. So how is it a lie? Also please don't dilute the term gaslight. If you don't know what it means please don't use it. A purpose bred mutt is one thing. But cross breeding with a breed that already has substantial health issues to get a not naturally occurring colour associated with even more health issues does NOTHING to benefit the breed. It is irresponsible, has a hugely negative impact on the breeds longevity, and dilutes the breed so preservation is more of an issue. Buying Merle frenchies is is just paying way too much for a mutt, that's likely gonna have a rough life, and it supports backyard breeding which should be made illegal at this point. If you want a Merle dog, get a breed where Merle is naturally occurring. Christina Tuesday 18th of April Renee, if it's Merle, it's not a frenchie. Frenchies can't be Merle without crossbreeding. You esentially have a backyard bred mutt. There's no such thing as a well bred Merle frenchie. And no reputable breeder will breed designer colours not naturally occurring in the breed. I own 2 beautiful French Bulldog merles and they are healthy and sweet. I wasn't looking for a merle but based on their disposition and excellent health I couldn't go home with one. I am not breeding or showing but only loving them crazy. FrenchieWiki Community. Color variations Blue merle French Bulldog Blue merle French Bulldogs are one of our most sought-after puppies of all the colors. They got their name after the blue patches on their light-colored coat, which are essentially grey with a bluish shine in the light. The shade of the grey parts may vary from very light to almost black, while their base color also ranges from a yellowish cream color to light grey. Lilac merle French Bulldog Lilac merle French Bulldogs are often mistaken for blue merle Frenchies, but they are much more unique and harder to come by. Lilac merle Frenchies have very light, almost ashy or silver colored patches on their light coat. To produce this rare and beautiful color, the parents have to carry the blue, chocolate and merle gene. Lilac merle French Bulldogs usually have light-colored eyes which are glowing red. Chocolate merle French Bulldog Chocolate merle French Bulldogs have dark brown mottled patches all over their light-colored bodies. Choco merle pups also have unique genetics so they are quite rare and hard to come by. Similarly to lilac Frenchies, they are the combination of blue and chocolate but their grey shade is more of a champagne color. Breeders have managed to mix in the merle gene as well producing the Isabella merle French Bulldog, but these dogs are extremely rare. Black merle French Bulldog Black merle French Bulldogs have black mottled patches often covering most of their bodies. Their base coat is also slightly darker than in other merle Frenchies, ranging from light grey to light brown. Fawn merle French Bulldog There are a number of different variations of fawn merle French Bulldogs, like blue fawn merle, lilac fawn merle or chocolate fawn merle. The dark patches these Frenchies have are less distinct looking than in other merles, as they are only a bit darker than their light fawn base color. One of these rare traits is their sparkling blue eyes. Since the merle gene affects the skin pigment as well, when a merle patch crosses the eye area the Frenchie will have bright forever blue eyes. Sometimes only one of the eyes will remain blue, which is a phenomenon called heterochromia. Because of how dominant the merle gene is, merle Frenchies should only be bred to a dog with a solid coat color. They are insanely affectionate making them the perfect companion dogs, they just want to spend every minute of their time with their owners. They are extremely friendly with kids and other animals too; they love basically anyone they meet! Thanks to their easy-going nature, a Merle Frenchie will adapt to your lifestyle very quickly no matter where you live. As you might expect, colors that are considered common for the breed have the lowest prices, while colors which are more unique and harder to produce are more expensive as well. When it comes to Merle French Bulldogs, they are already in a higher price range, but depending on the color variation their prices may further vary a lot. Permanent blue eyes also push the prices up a bit: we charge USD per blue eye.

I spend a lifetime learning pedigrees, going over dogs, talking and learning from those in my breed and those outside it. I raise each litter as if I gave birth to them and spend an equal amount of time finding them loving forever homes. I only put puppies on this planet that I think will be the healthiest mentally and physically and nicest examples of their breed. I support each.I am there if one needs to come back and will aggressively pursue the return of one of my dogs if its in the wrong place. I support my breed in rescue and education. I hold them when they arrive and leave this world, not only my own, but my brethren in the fancy. I share my knowledge and socialize my dogs so that they will be the advertisement for my dedication. I don't keep track of the money and time I put in to my love of dogs, it would not be true measure of how I feel. I support my friends in the fancy, because it takes a village sometimes and only WE know how things are for us. The price I charge for my puppies is never profit, but investment in the next generation. I will not be ashamed of who I am, I work hard at being a good dog person and encouraging others to be the same. Your Next Pug Puppy Our pugs are adopted quickly, so reach out to reserve your furever friend or to ask any questions. To get the most out of your experience in talking to pug breeders you need to know how to classify quality dogs that are being sold by the best breeder. Do your research and list down the things you have learned about the breed and the breeders. You need to have a set of conditions or a checklist of what you are looking for in a pug and in a breeder. You need to be clear on what to expect from pug breeders before you start talking to local stores, online shops, or looking for referrals from other pet parents. You can check their site at the address below and visit their website to know more about them, about a pug puppy listing, and the amazing things they do. They are reputed in the Florida area and their owners have been doing great things to make sure that the pugs being released are at their optimal health, friendly, and ready to socialize with people. Confirm with them if they are a pug breeder that is AKC registered. These companies are respected and recognized by dog clubs and dog communities. Search for a pug breeder in Orlando FL or nearby areas. They have a list of pug puppies for sale and are connected with reputable breeders. These websites vet their members and are approved by the local dog clubs. They have a list of questions to ask breeders when you make a purchase. Tips for Selecting the Best Pug Puppies Here are some tips you can apply in searching for the best pugs for sale in Florida. Ask Around Ask around for referrals from your friends or if there are any local dog clubs for the breeders they know or a pet store with connections to a pug breeder they know about. Having someone you know personally vouch for a breeder is a great step ahead in your journey. Try to determine which one is closest to you. If you are based in Orland FL, it may not be a good idea to take the time and drive in the opposite direction if you have pug breeders lined up and close to each other. A good breeder is your best chance of getting the perfect pug puppy for your home. Reputable and ethical breeders will take the time to know you and will ask you questions related to your interest in getting pug puppies. Perfect puppy breeders will ensure their pug puppies for sale will be raised in a good and loving home. They will try their best to know if the buyers have the well-being of the puppies as their greatest interest. If a pug breeder is no longer an option, you can also go to pet shops, rescue centers, and animal shelters and ask if they have pugs available for adoption. These places are also good sources of information for reputable breeders in the area. Screen Pug Breeders This is the most important step to get right. A legitimate breeder will provide a perfect puppy that has a complete health record or a health certificate. A true dog breeder will not hesitate to provide a health guarantee for every pug puppy to be released. Search for local breeders and take note of their contact details, office addresses, and office hours. Call ahead of time and schedule an appointment. Once you are in their shelter, look for signs or red flags. If you already have a prospective puppy, try to interact with it to see how it engages with you. Remember that legitimate breeders will keep their puppies happy and energetic. Create a List of Questions to Ask Prepare a list of questions to ask about the pugs for sale and about the local breeder ahead of your visit. Ask questions about the general health condition of the puppy, its parents, and health records. You can also request to see the parents of the pug puppy and get a good look at their current health condition and ask if the pug puppies for sale or the parents are AKC registered. Pugs that are mixed breeds tend to develop respiratory conditions and problems with weight. Other questions you can ask are if the breeder provides the health guarantees or if the pups will be crate trained upon release and many other questions along those lines. Check the Pug Puppies that are for Sale Confirm if the available pug puppies for sale are in their optimal health conditions. If you can, make it a point to take a vet with you when you visit pug breeders to check on the pug puppies. If the puppies are already vet checked, ask for the contact details of the vet who checked the puppies. Avoid puppy mills at all costs. They do not practice ethical standards on raising pug puppies. A puppy mill will release unhealthy puppies and will not consider the overall health of both the parents and the fawns. They also supply mixed breeds and never purebred pugs. Check if they have the updated vaccines and if they have been de-wormed. Female pugs are heavy shedders especially if they have become mothers to week old pug puppies. Pugs shed hair all year round, so be ready for that. Puppies shed more in their early stages. Make note of how fast and spontaneous the breeder answers your question about the health of the pug puppies. A reputable breeder will have no trouble answering these types of questions. Know What to Look for Look for energetic and cheerful pug puppies. Healthy and friendly pugs are excited to see new people. Look for pug puppies for sale that have a nice, positive temperament. Also, look for vaccination cards, AKC papers, registration papers, and the health certificate of the pug puppies for sale. Be wary of mixed breeds listed as purebred pug puppies for sale. If the pug for sale is under the color unrecognized category, chances are, the breeder is selling you a mixed-breed puppy. Compare prices among legit pug and dog breeders. If the prices are too low or become too high, you may not be getting what you are paying for. Conclusion Getting a pug for your home is a decision you will never regret. They are among the best things you can have in the world. Pugs are reliable and provide the best companions. They are sensitive to your emotions and are dedicated to providing the comic relief you needed after a stressful day. Here are some of the other topics we have created to help you search pugs for sale by location. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards,

His main purpose is for hunting large game. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. It is said that he got his name due to using his front paws for just about anything. Boxer dogs look intimidating with their stern-looking faces and powerful bodies. But they are actually very loving family dogs that get along with children and other animals. They love being with their families, and being separated from them can lead them to develop separation anxiety. Since this working dog is highly intelligent but stubborn in nature, he is better suited for experienced owners. The average lifespan of the breed is 9—10 years. Look for a boxer puppies for sale Warwick Rhode Island? Here is a brief background of this protective dog with a good sense of humour. History of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser a fighting dog with Mastiff ancestry and the Old English Bulldog. He was developed in Germany in the 19th century as hunters of deer, wild boar, and bear. Later on, he was used to guard and drive cattle. The man responsible for the creation of the Boxer breed was Georg Alt, who was from Munich. He crossed a brindle-coloured female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown breed. In , the first German Boxer dog named Flocki joined a dog show in Munich. After winning the dog show, he was the first-ever Boxer dog to be listed down in the German Studbook. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. Boxer puppies for sale in Warwick RI The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The American Boxer Club was established in .In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack dogs, and messenger dogs. The British Boxer Dog Club was then formed in .The Boxer breed was recognised by the Kennel Club shortly thereafter and classified under the Working Group. Versatile and hard-working, these dogs are capable of carrying out different canine work. Boxers are good choices for protection dogs, police dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs for the blind. Temperament and Intelligence of the Boxer puppies Warwick for sale Extremely patient and gentle, the Boxer breed is good with children. But he is recommended for families with older children as he may accidentally knock over toddlers. Befriending other pets is possible if the Boxer dog is properly socialised at a young age. It will keep him from viewing small animals as prey and reduce his tendency to dominate same-sex dogs. Is a Boxer a good family dog? Yes, the Boxer breed is a good family dog. He may look noble and intimidating, but he is actually considered the Joker of the Dog World. Boxer dogs are playful and fun-loving. They love to be part of family activities and be the centre of attention. Are Boxer dogs dangerous? Boxer dogs may be tough-looking, but they are not generally aggressive. But they will stand guard and defend their families if necessary. Boxer dogs are initially wary of strangers, but they eventually warm up to them if no danger is detected. Their protective and loyal nature makes them good guard dogs as well as watchdogs. Are Boxers easy to train? Yes, Boxer dogs are easy to train if you are already experienced in handling the breed. They are intelligent but tend to be independent and stubborn. Due to this, they are not suited for first-time owners. Boxer dogs respond better to people that are firm and consistent. However, firm does not mean harsh. Instead of strict training methods, positive reinforcements are more effective in teaching this breed basic dog manners and tricks. Boxer Breed Highlights The Boxer dog breed is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. Boxer dogs are comical companions despite their intimidating appearance. The Boxer breed has low-maintenance grooming needs. As an energetic working dog, he has high exercise needs. Boxer dogs tend to be destructive when they are left alone or unable to let off steam. Are there miniature boxers? Yes, but they are rare. Miniature boxers are either a product of mating purebred runts or cross-breeding small dogs that have similar characteristics to boxers, such as Boston terriers, pugs, rat terriers, and fox terriers. While some of these minis may closely resemble their larger counterparts, they may not act similarly. Are boxers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, boxers are not hypoallergenic. What problems do Boxers have? Boxer dogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces. This trait narrows their airway and causes breathing problems. As a result, Boxers should not be out in the sun for a long time as it can lead to heatstroke. Overexercising them must be avoided too to avoid triggering breathing difficulties. How long do Boxer dogs live? The Boxer dog breed has a short lifespan compared to other dogs. He can only live up to 9—10 years, and this is due to the prevalence of health issues in the breed. When buying a Boxer puppy, look for a reputable breeder whose breeding stock and litters are health-screened. This will help you determine how likely is your chosen Boxer puppy going to develop certain health conditions. It was decimated during King Philip's War —76 and was the site of the Gaspee Affair, the first act of armed resistance against the British, preceding even the Boston Tea Party, and a significant prelude to the American Revolution. Greene, a hero of the Battle of Gettysburg. Today, it is home to Rhode Island's main airport, T. Green Airport, which serves the Providence area and also functions as a reliever for Logan International Airport in Boston, Massachusetts. Wiki Warwick Drop us a line! We will not send you unnecessary notices in the future. My name is Tetyana and I am glad to welcome you on the site of the breed nursery. Angel was dumped as a small puppy in a rural Mississippi town, and left to fend for herself on the streets. A kind woman found her and brought her home, and reached out to rescue for help. Angel went into a wonderful foster home, where she was taught how to give and receive love, and how to interact with other dogs, cats, and children. She has done wonderful at learning how to be a family dog. Angel lives in the house with several foster siblings and several cats, and she gets along with everyone. She is house trained, crate trained, and leash trained. Her favorite activity is playing outside with her siblings, chasing a ball, and cuddling with her foster mom on the couch. Angel will do best in a very active home. She has tons of energy, and would love a fenced back yard to run and play. She would also love a home with other dogs with this same energy. Older children will do great with her, but she will need supervision with small children, just due to her energy and excitement. Angel is patiently awaiting her forever home so that she can start her new life and settle in with her very own family. We can provide a list of low costs SN clinics to adopters when requested. Adoption fee also includes transport fee. This requirement is for the benefit of you and your puppy so if you experience behavior issues you have a point of contact. PLEASE - Think long and hard before adopting a puppy - consider the lifestyle change this puppy will come with - he cannot be crated for more than hours at a time until he's older, puppy proofing your home will be necessary, puppies scratch and nip so if you have small children, can they handle this?? Training will be so important in this puppy's life, do you have the time?? Please consider purchasing this book before adopting. Donations for our young, healthy puppies and dogs support their fellow canines of advanced age or suffering from injuries and abuse whose donations are reduced but whose veterinary costs are typically much higher. We appreciate your understanding that your newly adopted dog will help others in need.

Are you a dog lover? Did you want to buy a four-leg family partner for yourself? Well, fortunately, you find a trusted platform where you can buy Inexpensive bulldog puppies for sale in the USA. Here your thirst for french dogs ended. We will assist you find the best breed under your budget. Here you will find a stout, friendly, affectionate family companion for you. Just Speak with buy frenchies pups and meet with your healthy well-trained puppy. Are Frenchies aggressive? No, Frenchies Pups are very friendly, social, and adorable dogs and get attached to humans easily. But if it does not train them properly there will be a chance of aggression. Aggressive signs include growling, snarling, stiff bodies, and more. Do French bulldogs stink? No french bulldog Pups did not stink. But they are prone to collect dirt. They need regular cleaning. If you do not clean them on a daily basis their facial folds become smelly. What is the rarest color of French bulldog? Blue Merle is a rare color and is the most expensive puppy. Are French Bulldogs OK left alone? As Frenchies are social and friendly dogs. They need attention and care full time. It is not recommended to leave them alone. It causes separation anxiety in them. What health problems do French Bulldogs get? French Bulldogs are too sensitive. They often get health problems due to insufficient care and attention. Those problems include: Ear Infections. Rated 0 out of 5 What is the the Temperament French bulldogs for sale French Bulldog dog breed is a clever, loving canine who needs to contribute lots of energy with his kinfolk just like the maltese. French Bulldog puppies are also very playful and affectionate in their nature. They simply like being around people. In terms of caring, Frenchies for sale are simple to care for — all they require is a healthy diet along with regular exercise, and a family that will lavish them with love and affection. Join our Facebook platform to engage with other French Bulldog lovers and breeders, share ideas and adopt a puppy for a cheap fee. Click here to visit the group. This is Because they are Brachycephalic canines smushed-face , French Bulldog puppies are prone to heat and susceptible to many health problems. Bulldogs are bulldogs. French Bulldog Puppies are characteristically stubborn, which can hinder the process of training. While not as large as other breeds French Bulldog puppy breed are stout compact and strong. They require exercise as well to maintain their shape. They are also available in a range in coat colors and designs. The selection is so wide of fantastic French Bulldogs for sale that you might need assistance in locating the perfect French Bulldog puppy for your family. The best method to locate the ideal French Bulldog puppy for sale is to talk to an GlamorousFrenchbulldog consultant now by opening a conversation through our live chat below.

German Shepherd puppies for sale. Our main goal at Von Tannenblau, is to produce and raise the very finest quality German Shepherds, based on Captain Max von Stephanitz's ideal upon founding the breed. This means temperament, trainability and adequate health are our priority. All of our dogs have great family companion temperaments, high energy and work drive. Our beautiful Von Tannenblau puppies are born in our home as part of our family in a very special birthing room that has been designed for comfort as well as safety for the mother and her new puppies. We do observe and evaluate each of our puppies and it is very important for us to match each puppy with the new owner's need. We take many pictures and videos to post on our website and social media Facebook, YouTube and Instagram to show how puppies develop during the first 8 weeks from birth until leaving their litter. Von Tannenblau puppies are socialized with children, family, friends and other dogs. All puppies are identified by microchip, Canadian Kennel Club registered, dewormed and vaccinated against parvovirus, canine distemper, parainfluenza and have a written health guarantee outlined in our sales agreement. All parents are certified free of hip and elbow dysplasia as well as screened for degenerative myelopathy DNA sample Is a working line dog right for you? The joy of owning a working line bred German shepherd is immeasurable. However, such a companion and work mate that dedicates itself over to you so completely requires a significant reciprocal commitment. Do you have a fenced yard? Are you able to devote at least 2 hours per day to exercising and training your dog? Are you or other family members allergic to dogs? Will your puppy be raised inside of your home as a part of your family? Do you currently have small children, infants or other animals in your home? If not do you plan to in the future? Do you plan to crate train your puppy in addition to housebreaking? Are you prepared to feed a high quality food to your dog such as a raw food as a regular diet throughout its lifetime? Do you know the difference between the temperaments and character of a Working Line German Shepherd Dog over a show line or an American bred German Shepherd? Have you already consulted with a private trainer or know of obedience classes that are offered in your area that may be more specific to working dogs over an average all breed style pet training class? Are you prepared and committed to the annual expense required for quality veterinary care to include such things as annual health examinations, vaccinations? Are you financially prepared to provide care for your dog and seek veterinary care in the event of an emergency that may require hospitalization of your dog? Neutering or spaying is not a replacement for proper training. Those who see it as an easy way to tame certain undesirable behaviors should not be considering adoption of a working line German Shepherd or any other working breed. As opposed to a wide spread propaganda, politics and municipal bylaws responsible dog ownership has nothing to do with surgical removal of reproductive organs from a healthy animal. It is the owner's responsibility, however, to keep female in heat under constant supervision and on a leash. Never bring her near intact males or in the dog park during her heat period. Same applies to male dogs. They must remain on a leash during walks at all times when they happen to have a few weeks of sexual unrest usually in the spring and fall. Puppies are born perfect. Contrary to what many veterinarians recommend, surgical removal of reproductive organs, aside from risks associated with the surgery itself, will not make a puppy any healthier. Sure enough neutered male will never develop testicular cancer very rare in dogs and usually always benign. Spayed female will never suffer from pyometra acute inflammation of uterus. Spaying or neutering, however, will have an array of negative health effects that can last the entire life of the animal. We do not want to pass derogatory judgment but some veterinarians often intentionally fail to fully disclose all the facts about spaying and neutering. The surgery and consecutive care a dog will need represent a major portion of their income. Onset of negative effects is usually gradual and often takes a long time, therefore dog owners rarely associate these disorders with the surgical intervention that took place in the past. Do GSD's make good family pets? A well bred and properly trained German shepherd makes a wonderful family companion. They are naturally protective of their "pack". As with any other breed, young children should never be left unattended with a puppy, however, if the children learn to respect the puppy as a living being, the puppy will be a wonderful companion for the children as they all grow up together. Your dog's ranking in the "pack" should always be established as the bottom Omega member below humans. What traits are present in the German Shepherd? The breed is naturally loyal, intelligent and protective which makes it good for police work. The GSD has an excellent nose, making it good for tracking and search and rescue work. They are calm and have a steady temperament when well-bred which is why they have been used as "Seeing Eye" dogs. A GSD thrives on regular exercise, mental stimulation and a well-balanced diet. They are very trainable and love to work. The German shepherd is affectionate but generally not dependent. He is aloof to strangers and may often seem quite indifferent to those outside his 'pack'. Breeding plays an important role in the temperament of GSD's, therefore selecting a reputable breeder concerned with both physical health and the personality of their puppies is of utmost importance. Different bloodlines exhibit traits differently, so question breeders about the strong and weak traits of their bloodlines. See the article on German versus American bloodlines about specific general differences. Can you guarantee my puppy will not have hip problems? No breeder in the world can guarantee that the puppies won't develop dysplasia, and if they do.Hip dysplasia is considered to be polygenic and is also influenced by environmental factors. That means that it's caused by a combination of genes that may not show up in any litter previously. No matter the certifications in the pedigree it is possible that your puppy could be predisposed to hip dysplasia. Treatments both surgical and drug can be done early to alleviate problems down the line. If in doubt, find an orthopedic specialist. Be wary of a breeder that says their puppies will definitely not have hip problems. The parents of our puppies are certified free of dysplasia and that should your pup develop a problem, I will be available to help and guide you in deciding what steps to take. What is the difference between males and females? Some people will say that males are more "location" protective while females are more "pack" protective. Males are generally more territorial, so unless training steps are consistent, marking could be a problem. Neutering may help alleviate this problem. Any dog not intended for a breeding program should be neutered or spayed. Besides eliminating the possibility of unwanted puppies and reducing some undesirable behaviors, it's considerably healthier for your dog since it eliminates or severely reduces the chance of testicular or mammary cancers. I have found that it is more useful to look to the individual temperament and personality of each pup in the litter then to generalize about sex differences. How old will my puppy be when I take it home? Puppies are old enough to go to their new homes by eight weeks. How big will my German shepherd be? The full adult size of your GSD will depend in large part on the genetic background of its parents. Adult males should range between " at the shoulder blade, females from ". Males within the standard may weigh anywhere from lbs. Females may weigh anywhere from lbs. Although your pup will reach close to adult height by months, he will continue to fill out until up to 3 years old. Be wary of breeders who emphasize "oversize", "huge", "big-boned" breeding stock or puppies. Bigger is not better in German Shepherds. The German Shepherd is not built to have a skeletal and muscular structure of an oversize breed. An inch or so out of standard may be acceptable providing the general line is not consistently out of standard. A responsible breeder will offset an oversize dog by breeding with a line that is a bit smaller in order to maintain the standards as closely as possible. What is "socializing" and why is it so important? Socializing refers to exposing your puppy to a variety of experiences, including meeting lots of people of various ages, races, sizes and both sexes as well as teaching them how to acceptably interact with other dogs. Puppy kindergarten classes provide an excellent opportunity for socialization in a controlled environment. Socializing is important because it helps strengthen your dog's confidence and reduces the chance that your dog will become shy or fearful. Fearful dogs can become fear aggressive or fear biters. All our puppies interact daily with our young children and experience playing inside and outside with the kids, older dogs, cats and different people. Will my German shepherd puppy's ears stand? Although some puppies' ears stand as early as weeks, don't be concerned if your pup's ears don't stand until months especially pups with large ears after teething. Some pups ears never stand. This is known as a "soft ear". Sometimes taping is successful. It is a disqualification in showing but does not affect the dog' health in a negative way. What precautions should I take with my GSD puppy? Other than the normal precautions of immunizations beware of a fast-growing puppy. There are studies that show a correlation between fast growth and hip dysplasia if your pup is predisposed to HD. You may want to switch your puppy over to adult food if it seems to be growing very quickly. Don't pet your puppy's ears backwards before they stand. Although people often do this by nature, it can damage the cartilage in your pup's ears which can affect the ear carriage. Do take your puppy to puppy kindergarten and obedience training classes and do your homework for these classes. Behaviors that are cute in a 15 pound puppy can be dangerous in a 75 pound adult. Socialize your puppy with people especially children and other dogs frequently after your puppy has completed its immunization series sometime after 16 weeks old. Your puppy may go through a period known as "adolescent shyness" when it reaches months of age. This period can last until the pup is months old. Socializing your puppy from an early age will help minimize this shyness. Expose your puppy to a variety of experiences, but do so gently. You don't want to traumatize your puppy. Be careful of heavy physical exertion directly before and after eating, especially if your GSD is a "gulper". German shepherds and many other large breeds can suffer from bloat. If your dog's abdomen becomes distended and rigid and it can not seem to belch or pass gas, gastric torsion may be the problem. This is an immediate health concern and you should contact your vet or an emergency clinic. How long should I wait to switch my puppy to adult food? We recommend switching at around 12 weeks to a feeding a high quality adult food. Check out the content of the food closely. Look for some kind of meat to be the first ingredient, not a grain product. Studies have shown that puppies growing quickly may be more prone to developing hip and elbow dysplasia. Dry food is fine, you don't need to supplement with canned food. It's expensive and doesn't provide anything a good dry food doesn't. If your puppy doesn't want to eat the dry food, you can moisten it slightly with warm water. This may also reduce the risk of bloat and don't worry, the pup will eat when he is hungry! How often should I feed my puppy and how much? Feed the pup morning and evenings, as much as he will eat in one sitting then remove the bowl until the next meal. Adjust your portions appropriately if the puppy is putting on excess weight. Remove his water source several hours before bedtime and fresh water should be available with every meal. Once the dog is housebroken, free access to water unless you will be gone for an extraordinarily long period of time should not be a problem. What is bloat gastric torsion? Bloat otherwise known as "gastric torsion" can be a problem with any deep chested breed like German Shepherds. The stomach twists so nothing can pass through the esophagus to the stomach or through the stomach to the intestines, causing gas to build up. This is an immediate health concern where the dog should be taken to the vet or emergency clinic. Signs of bloat include a distended rigid abdomen, indications of vomiting with no results and inability to belch or pass gas. High activity directly before or after eating can exacerbate bloating. Keeping the dog quiet at least one hour before and after eating can help reduce the chances of bloat. Pre-moistening the dog's food with water can also reduce the chances and smaller meals can also reduce the risk of bloat if you do not free-feed. Free-fed dogs just need to have their activity level watched, but do not usually eat enough at any one sitting to cause problems. Bloat is more of a problem with a dog that "gulps" its food which a free-fed dog won't usually do. Don't leave pre-moistened food down for a free-fed dog too long as it can breed bacteria. Instead, leave them smaller portions, but refill more frequently. What is the life expectancy of a German shepherd? Most lines of GSD's will live to between years of age. A GSD becomes "middle-aged" between years old, and is generally considered "geriatric" at about .Their food intake and exercise and nutrition needs may change over this period of time. They may begin to develop stiffness in their joints much like people do as they get older. Healthy teeth are important as bacteria from decaying teeth can affect the health of the dog. Do German Shepherds shed a lot? The GSD is a "double-coated" dog with an undercoat and guard hairs. The guard hairs will be shed all year. The undercoat is "blown" twice a year. The shedding is pretty much constant, but a regular weekly brushing keeps things under control. Avoid giving baths as it dries out the coat's natural oils. What is a long-coated German shepherds? The correct GSD coat is relatively short with an obvious undercoat. As such it is quite waterproof. Some dogs are born with long coats which usually, though not always, also have an undercoat. The normal coat is dominant to the long version, so there are three kinds of dog: normal, normal but carrying the long coat gene, and long. If you don't intend to show your dog in conformation, there's no reason to avoid the long-coated GSD. Long-coated GSD's can and do compete in obedience and other working disciplines. You should be aware, however, that the longer coat does require more attention when grooming. Are German shepherds smart and easy to train? Yes and no to both. Most GSD's are eager and willing to learn and enjoy training sessions don't overdo with a young pup - they just don't have the attention span. If you start young and teach your puppy its order in your "pack", problems with training will be minimized. However, GSD's tend to have more dominant personalities than some breeds and can be stubborn, so some care in training is recommended. Classes are extremely beneficial. A GSD that thinks it's the Alpha member of the pack can be a big handful. We help you to select the puppy with the appropriate temperament for your living situation. This helps to insure that with proper training the relationship between your dog and your family will be harmonious. My young GSD is limping! Is it pano or dysplasia?? You probably do want to take your pup into a vet just to make sure you can eliminate hip and elbow dysplasia from the cause of the problem. Most likely the vet will confirm that your pup has panosteitis, an inflammation of the long bones in the legs of adolescent pups. It's fairly common in GSD's It's also known as "long bone disease", "shifting leg lameness" and "growing pains". Onset can be from months occasionally later and last until 18 months or more. Though it is uncomfortable for the puppy, it almost always grows out of it. The lameness need not be limited to one leg. What is an average size litter? An average size litter for a GSD is six to eight puppies. What is the difference between a GSD and an Alsatian? There is no difference. After each of the World Wars, anything German fell out of popular favor. To avoid the use of the word German, "Alsatian" from the Alsace-Lorraine area was used. In some countries, GSD's are still known as Alsatians. The word "Dog" is part of the name. What is Schutzhund? Schutzhund is German for "protection dog", but it also refers to a training discipline and dog sport involving 3 phases; obedience, tracking and protection. It is supposed to be a fun experience for both the dog and the handler. If it isn't for one or the other, don't consider it. Find another activity. Schutzhund is not the be all and end all of training. See the section on Schutzhund often noted as SchH for more information. More info on schutzhund Why buy from a reputable breeder? You should seek out a reputable breeder when looking for a GSD pup because of the health concerns noted above as well as problems in temperament brought out in ill-bred GSD's Poorly-bred GSD's can also be aggressive, fearful, or shy-sharp a fearful dog that becomes aggressive when frightened. It is for these reasons that a reputable breeder is more likely to have sound pups, guarantee their health, help you select the puppy most suited to your lifestyle and goals, and be able to guide you as the pup grows.

Your dog may suffer from indigestion if they are fed too late at night. A Boxer may struggle to acquire weight at times. Having three meals each day, including snacks, can help during this time. Adult Boxers should be fed in the morning, noon, and evening. Scheduled feeding times should be established early on to prevent weight-related diseases. Adult Boxers on a two-meal diet should eat in the morning and evening. Never let your dog exercise vigorously after a large meal, especially if they eat rapidly. This prevents bloating , intestinal obstruction, and other serious digestive problems. Introduce fewer carbs and consider nourishing their intestines and giving them micronutrients that help fight off disease-causing microorganisms. The following is a top-notch selection of Boxer food: Dry Food: Your best bet is to feed your Boxer dog grain-free kibble or dry kibble. Some even advocate dog food with human-grade ingredients. High-quality kibble containing animal protein formulated specifically for the growth and development of lean muscle mass in Boxers. Wet Food: Wet food is another commercial dog food option. If you want raw feeding for your Boxer, be sure to consult a veterinarian first, as raw diets can be tricky to prepare. Home-Cooked Diet: Aside from raw food, you can feed your Boxer home-cooked food as well. Always get your meat and other ingredients from reputable butchers and merchants to avoid potential problems. There are benefits and drawbacks to each of these dog food options mentioned above. But, for the most part, these are the best food options for the Boxer. If you are in doubt, seek the advice of an animal nutritionist or veterinarian. However, Boxers are susceptible to skin allergies caused by these products. To have a grain-free diet for your dog, you should look out for ingredients like brown rice, wheat, corn, and barley. Chocolate: While chocolate is a delicious treat for us humans, it can be harmful to your Boxer. The stimulants in chocolates, known as methylxanthines , make them toxic for dogs. It could be fatal if your dog has consumed cocoa powder, cocoa butter, or cooking chocolate. Fatty Meals: Pancreatitis outbreaks in dogs can be blamed on fatty meals. A veterinarian should always be consulted before feeding a dog a new diet. Call a veterinarian immediately if you believe that your Boxer dog has consumed something hazardous. Some dogs may have stomach upset and even appetite loss if you suddenly switch to a new high-quality food or diet. This shift should occur within a five- to seven-day time window. American Kennel Club AKC advocates starting with 25 percent of the new food for your Boxer and gradually increasing it until all of the old food has been replaced with fresh food, based on the same ratio. Below is a table showing what the AKC recommends as a standard diet transition plan for most dog breeds, including Boxers: Day. Yet underneath that strong and active exterior is a lot of labor and commitment to protecting their loved ones. When it comes to maintaining their health, you need to understand how much to feed a Boxer puppy. We have included a Boxer puppy feeding chart to help you take care of this breed. The daily food intake for a Boxer may range from one cup to four cups. Meal sizes for Boxers depend not just on weight but also on the sort of food they eat. Due to their medium size, boxer puppies need three daily meals and around four cups of food every day. Keep in mind that RER is only a rough estimate of how many calories your dog requires per day; other variables, including their age and activity level, will need to be included in as well. Keeping the puppy clean and warm is essential during this time, as is giving it enough milk or formula to help it thrive. Choose a premium puppy food that has been developed with their unique nutritional requirements in mind. Provide modest, regular meals three to four times a day. At the beginning, feed the puppy just a quarter to a half cup every day, and gradually increase the quantity as it grows. Always have clean water available, and keep an eye out for any symptoms of food intolerance or gastrointestinal distress. To keep them healthy, give them high-quality puppy food in many little meals throughout the day. Exercise, socializing, and the introduction of obedience training should all be high priorities. Keep a close eye on their eating habits and weight gain, and alter their food intake accordingly. This is a pivotal time for training and socializing, so be sure you provide lots of both. It is important to keep feeding them three times a day, and to stick with a high-quality puppy food. Provide around 2 and a half cups of food daily, split between three meals. Starting now is a great opportunity to introduce more advanced training methods like obedience or agility programs. Throughout a day, give them around 2 and a half cups of food. This is a pivotal time for further education and integration into society. Feed them around two and a half to three cups each day. Throughout this phase, they are still learning new skills and interacting with others, making it an essential part of their development. Provide two meals daily, adjusting the quantity of food based on their weight. Maintain a program of regular exercise and training, and watch out for any signs of age-related health decline. Boxer pups need a high-protein, moderate-fat diet for optimal growth and energy. Bone health may be supported by making sure the meal has enough calcium and phosphorus. Depending on its age and degree of activity, the calorie requirements of a Boxer puppy may range from around to 1, per day. A Boxer puppy requires between — calories per day when they are 8 weeks old, and — calories per day when they are 6 months old. Authentic meats and seafood, whole grains, and produce should all be included as ingredients on the label. Puppies of different ages have different dietary needs and feeding schedules. A Boxer puppy of 6 weeks old has to be fed times a day, with each meal consisting of only a few bites. Puppies need to be fed three times a day until they are three months old, then twice a day until they are 12 months old. Training and housebreaking are aided by establishing a consistent eating pattern. Yet, the two are not identical. Dry kibble offers the advantages of being portable, simple to store, and lasting for a long time. Crunchy kibble is good for your teeth because it encourages chewing, which may reduce plaque. Yet, some pups may prefer wet food because to its increased moisture content and inherent tastiness. In addition, it may help you stay hydrated, which is crucial to your health. The preference and dietary requirements of each puppy are unique, thus the choice between kibble and wet food must be made carefully. An animal hospital is the best place to get advice on what to feed a Boxer adult dog. Many factors might be at play if a Boxer puppy suddenly stops eating. Illness, stress, dental issues, and even just a change in habit may all cause lack of appetite in Boxer pups. Sometimes getting a puppy to eat may be as simple as presenting a more appetizing food, feeding it by hand, or making mealtime less of a stressful experience. Leaving food available for a puppy to graze on all day is considered free feeding, which is not advised for Boxer pups. Since free-feeding might induce overeating and weight gain, it is not recommended for Boxer pups. High-quality protein from genuine chicken initially supports muscular growth. This natural dog food has all the nutrition your puppy needs with whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruit. Pros Real chicken first ingredient for protein Contains DHA and ARA for cognitive function Wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit A blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals No chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy 2. Real chicken is the first ingredient in this tasty, nutritious puppy chow, delivering protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart. It also has a SmartBlend of high-quality, readily digested omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals for a lustrous coat and healthy skin. Four antioxidant sources for strong immune system High-quality, easily digestible ingredients. Delicious crunchy bites and tender meaty morsels. Cons Contains some corn and wheat 3. This high-quality kibble for pups under 1 year old has actual chicken as the first ingredient and no chicken by-product meal, maize, wheat, or soy. Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA help brain and ocular development and deliver protein. Pros High-quality protein for muscle development and growth No GMO, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy. Brain and eye growth from omega-3 fatty acids like DHA. This formula contains high-quality protein from lamb and omegarich fish oil to create lean muscles and enhance brain and eyesight development. Pros Protein-rich lamb is the first component. Omega-3 fish oil DHA for puppy brain and visual development. Calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals for bones and teeth, Vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat Cons Lamb, may not suit all pups 5. Pros Flaxseed and salmon oil contain omega-3 fatty acids Grain-free Created by vets with protein, fat, and minerals Cons Not for ingredient-allergic pets. Raw feeding a Boxer puppy is a contentious issue with no clear consensus on whether or not it is healthy for the dog. Yet, some owners and vets are worried about the potential for bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances in a raw diet, despite the fact that others feel it might give advantages including better digestion and coat health. Also, choose a reliable raw food supplier. The typical growth rate for a Boxer puppy is pounds per week for the first several months of life. A Boxer puppy, depending on its size and gender, may gain pounds by the time it is 6 months old. To make sure your Boxer puppy is developing normally, keep an eye on his or her size and weight. A constant supply of cool, fresh water is essential for the health of a Boxer puppy. Puppy development necessitates that they consume more water than an adult dog would. Puppies need half an ounce to an ounce of water per pound of body weight every day. A Boxer puppy weighing 20 pounds, for instance, should need 10 to 20 ounces of water each day. Puppy water consumption should be closely monitored to prevent dehydration. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. And, I'll go out on a limb to say I bet those early Boxers ate dog food with less additives and fillers than found in today's formulas. That is of course, unless you're armed with information on sourcing the best possible modern foods for feeding Boxer dogs! Adult Boxer dogs require 1, to 2, calories of good quality dog food per day depending on age and activity, with an averagely active adult dog somewhere midrange. Being a muscular breed that is highly active, Boxers require quality protein in food at a slightly higher level than many less active breeds. Credence should be given to invest in a quality kibble dog food with high protein and caloric value or go with a Raw Dog Diet , especially for active Boxers. Bloat Concerns This breed is prone to bloat, Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus , so grain free kibble and raw diets are a great option for feeding Boxer dogs. Carbohydrate and fat levels are less a concern when feeding Boxer dogs, yet Boxers are know to put on extra weight rather easily. Low carbohydrate diets should be fed to overweight dogs and the breed ideally should be slim, stocky and muscular. To learn how we choose quality kibble formulas, or for help selecting your own, visit our Feeding Dry Dog Food section. For a great alternative to kibble and food we highly recommend for Boxer dogs, visit our Raw Feeding Dogs section. Supplements As with any medium to large breed dog, providing a food that includes supplements adds additional insurance towards good health. To maintain your Boxer's joint health, foods containing chondroitin and glucosamine are awesome. If your kibble doesn't include these compounds, they can be supplemented separately with a product such a Cosequin. For a shiny coat and to promote skin health, foods with Omega-6 fatty acids are wonderful. For control of inflammation or arthritis pain in older Boxer dogs, support the heart, kidneys and stabilize overall mood, Omega-3 fatty acids are great to see on an ingredients panel. Just like Cosequin however, Omegas can be fed separately and as needed by simply squeezing a gel capsule over your Boxer's meal. In summary, feeding Boxer dogs about 2. Amount fed may go up or down based on your dog's size, weight, age and overall daily activity. Feeding Boxer Dog Puppies Quality formulated all life stages food and several small meals a day for a Boxer dog puppy. Your Boxer puppy will grow rapidly through the first six to eight months. Similar to any medium or large breed puppy that is susceptible to bone growth issues like hip dysplasia, feeding a quality all life stages, large breed puppy formula, or Raw Dog Food diet will help regulate growth. Boxer puppies can eat! Two to three regulated servings per day is recommended, do not free freed. There's an unwritten rule in among Boxer enthusiasts to feed at least twice as much food daily that your puppy would eat as an adult, In multiple regulated servings. Begin by following feeding guidelines per the label provided on your chosen Kibble Dog Food Formula. Increase or decrease the amount fed by assessing your Boxer's body weight and energy as he or she grows. From age 6 to 8 months on, the rapid growth phase should cease and while still technically a puppy, your Boxer can be transitioned to an adult diet. This includes higher protein foods yet many who were already feeing an all life stages formula can continue with the same. As always with both puppies and adult Boxers, keep an eye on your dog's weight. You should always see a trace of the last rib with this breed and they should appear slim, yet muscular. Adjust amount fed per serving accordingly to maintain that perfect Boxer appearance. And lastly, with all dog breeds that are prone to bloat, feeding Boxer dogs several small meals a day is a safer bet than free feeding, or one HUGE serving! Don't forget to check out our Feeding Dry Dog Food articles which focus on selecting a quality kibble for your Boxer dog. And, if there's another mid-size dog in your pack, Feeding Medium Size Dogs provides access to a library of breed specific feeding guides. For help choosing kibble dog food for your Boxer Dog plus additional info about raw feeding, visit our Homepage for quick banner access to the major sections of our website! Your vet can run the necessary tests and examine your puppy to determine the cause. Male Adult male Boxers are slightly larger than females. Males weigh an average of 60 to 70 pounds, requiring 3 to 5 cups of food. This weight range requires 2 to 4 cups of food per day. On top of a caloric increase, an active Boxer will also need a protein-rich diet to feed their muscles. A protein-friendly, calorie-dense dry kibble should be offered, and you should follow the instructions based on their weight. Image Credit: boxerdogmadness, Pixabay Sedentary Boxers tend to become overweight quickly if you overfeed them—blame their voracious appetites and love for snacking. This food offers a low-calorie alternative without skipping out on necessary nutrition. However, what really happens is that it decreases their metabolism rate, slowing their energy. This slowing process can cause weight gain if you continue to feed them the same amount of food. The puppies always get the nutrients first. So, if you have a food that is lacking in certain areas, the mother will suffer. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Boxer Feeding Guide for Seniors Just like puppyhood has special dietary requirements when dogs reach a certain age, so does old age. Seniors need to eat foods that cater to their life stage to keep them capable, happy, and healthy for their remaining years. A Boxer transitions into the senior category, usually around 6—9 years of age. If you have your dog on dog food for all life stages, it might be appropriate to continue this diet. A lower-calorie food will also help to prevent your dog from becoming overweight. If your senior has specific health issues, it might be best to feed them a specific diet that helps with their condition. As time goes on, you can work with your vet to accommodate their special dietary needs. It is formulated specifically for later years. Some dogs have voracious appetites that are never satisfied. It seems like you barely get it into the bowl before they suck it up like a vacuum cleaner. Free-Feeding—this practice involves making food available to your dog at all times. The danger with this method is that large dogs like Boxers are susceptible to bloat, or gastric dilation-volvulus GDV. Bloat happens when the dog eats too quickly, causing gas to fill the abdomen. It can be fatal. This method can also make overeating seem like the norm, which causes bad manners. Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals is a better alternative to free-feeding. Slow-Feeder Bowls—a great way to slow your pooch down, allowing them to digest their food properly, is to give them food in a slow feeder. It gives your Boxer unique designs to eat around, stimulating their mental curiosity while slowing them down. What Foods Are Bad for Boxers? Some things to look out for are: Corn. Male boxer puppies would be around 17 inches or more during their 6th month while females will be slightly smaller at around 16 inches. Birth to 3 weeks old When your boxer pup is still very young, they should be with their mom and be nursed properly. Keep in mind that your boxer should get equal amounts of milk, especially if they belong to a large litter. Observe the litter for any signs of bullying or some puppies being overpowered. This is also the case if the mother is too thin to supply milk to all of her pups. When your puppy reaches 3 weeks of age, you might start to notice rapid growth. That is normal for boxer puppies since the breed tends to grow faster than most dogs. Boxer pups of this age still need to be nursed. To do this mix 1 part puppy food with 3 parts water in a bowl and offer it to them. It also helps to train your pups to only eat when they are hungry. A good rule of thumb in terms of scheduling for the water and puppy food mixture would be 3 to 4 times a day. You want the process to be a pleasant one for your boxer pup. This is when the weaning process becomes slightly visible. The mother dog will slightly let go of her little ones for them to be independent. Keep them away from dangerous objects and supervise them as much as possible. Ensure that their food is easy to chew to avoid eating problems. If your vet allows for it, you can add some veggies or other food ingredients that are deemed safe for pups as advised. Your puppy will need more nutrition by this time so they need to learn to eat solid puppy food. After all, 6 weeks old is a time for exploration, playtime, and energy bursts whether indoors or outdoors. You may also want to feed them more if they spend a lot more time playing or running around. Once your puppy reaches 7 weeks old, they should already know how to eat their solid food. Give them the serving somewhere between 3 and 4 times a day depending on your available time and their hunger pangs. Your boxer pups will also get nursed less often during this time, as the mother will likely just stand up while giving milk reluctantly to her little ones. She might even run away from them at some point, allowing them to become more independent. Keep their meals served at 3 to 4 times a day, with at least 2 or more cups per day, divided equally. You can also follow the chart that we mentioned above, especially if your boxer pup is quite the active fellow. Having more cups a day is important for puppies that have far less weight than others. You can also ask your vet about how many calories they need depending on their energy levels. Know the activity levels of your puppy and adjust accordingly. If your boxer pup is always on the go, they might need more calories than usual. Moreover, a 9-week-old boxer pup might also roam around and pick various objects to ensure that their surroundings are kept puppy-proofed. Bloating comes from excessively gobbling food so make sure they only get equal portions for their daily meal schedules. While we did say that boxer pups during this period are likely to eat twice as much as a regular adult boxer, always observe if your puppy is getting overweight by checking their waist. Talk to your vet if you suspect your pup might be gaining too many pounds. Always keep in mind to avoid bloating problems with your pup by ensuring the schedule gets followed. Continue with the usual puppy food or as instructed by your vet. Recommended Food Now that your boxer puppy has a set schedule, what should you feed them? Here are some suggestions: 1. Quality Kibble Like most active breeds, dry kibble is the way to go if you want affordable and easy-to-store food for your boxer puppy. Worry not — there are grain-free options in the market. Wet or canned food If you want added calories for an active boxer puppy, consider wet food. After all, canned puppy food is tasty to most dogs, especially during their puppy years, since the smell is enough to get them eating. Omega fatty acid foods Boxers are prone to cardiomyopathy, which can be lessened if they take foods and supplements rich in omega fatty acids, such as fish. Talk to your vet for a diet plan that will help lessen the likelihood of such eye problems. Glucosamine foods Hip dysplasia is common in boxers so we recommend foods that are rich in glucosamine, such as chicken feet and seafood. Consider looking for either kibble or canned puppy food that has glucosamine to help prevent hip dysplasia and other joint problems. Look for primarily meat-based puppy food rather than cheap commercial brands. Commercial brands out there may have more corn and wheat than protein from meat. Instead, look for slightly pricier yet more quality brands of puppy food for your boxer. And, as usual, you should also stay away from human foods that are toxic to dogs, such as grapes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and the like. FAQs on Feeding a Boxer Puppy Boxer pups need extra care when it comes to their diet — here are some frequently asked questions with regards to feeding them properly: When do I switch to adult food for my Boxer puppy? By this time, you can slowly transition your puppy to adult food in portions. Should I give my Boxer puppy supplements? As a workaholic dog breed, boxer pups need protein and other nutrients, which are fortunately already in most quality dog food brands. Raw feeding a Boxer puppy A raw diet is okay for boxer puppies provided that you get expert advice from your vet about it. Raw feeding is no walk in the park since you need to do the math on calories and nutrients as compared to commercial food. Also, take note of food handling to avoid bacterial infection, especially if you live in areas where humidity is high. If you need help, talk to a breeder or someone you know tried raw feeding before — especially for puppies. Conclusion A healthy and energetic boxer puppy will be a satisfied life companion if you feed them properly. All you need to know is that boxers are typically workaholics so they need to have a balanced diet with sufficient calories based on their activities. We hope this helped you figure out how much to feed your boxer puppy! Every bite of food will be detrimental or beneficial to this breed's health. Overview Food is fuel both for a growing Boxer pup and large strong adult Boxer dogs. The type of food that you offer for both meals and snacks has a direct affect on your Boxer's health both now and in the future. Also of importance is a feeding schedule and making sure that you offer the proper amounts. This section will cover everything you need to know in order to provide a well-balanced, nutritious diet for your Boxer puppy, adult, or senior. How Often to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog Let's look at a summary and then the details: Puppies under 12 weeks: free-fed Puppies and up to the 2-year mark: 3 meals per day Adults 2 years and up: 1 to 2 meals per day Young pups 8 to 12 weeks old: Very young pups, and particularly those that are a bit underweight, should be free-fed for at least the first month at their new home. This is the method of having fresh food accessible at all times. For a pup still trying to gain their bearings, you may need to lead them to their bowl throughout the day. Note that food should be thrown out and the bowl washed and then refilled several times per day as opposed to just topping off the food since pups may not be interested in stale food. Growing pup to 2 year mark: It's best to get a Boxer onto a feeding schedule as soon as possible. Schedules of anything feeding, exercise, sleep time, etc. Young Boxers often struggle a bit to fill out and during the 1 to 2-year mark Boxers can go through a 'skinny phase', so 3 meals per day, plus snacks, can work well during this time. Adults 2 years and up: Most adult Boxers that have reached their final adult weight and height do well with 2 meals per day, plus snacks. If snacks are regular and of substance, a Boxer may be perfectly content with 1 main meal per day. Note that this breed is prone to bloat, so you want to avoid letting a Boxer get so hungry that he rapidly gulps his food down. If that is the case, increase the frequency of meals or use a slow-feed bowl; stainless-steel is best, something like Mr. How Much to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog The exact serving size that is appropriate for each Boxer varies and depends mainly on age and current weight but also is affected by activity level, health status, type of food wet vs dry , and individual metabolism. This said, there are general guidelines: Puppies usually require about 55 calories for each pound of body weight. Young pups might eat a bit over a cup a day, older pups can eat up to 3 cups a day. Adults need fewer calories per pound of body weight than their younger counterparts, about .Depending on an adult Boxer dog's size, food is usually in the 3 to 5 cup per day range. To know exactly how much to give your Boxer, know your dog's weight. Don't guess since that can be wildly off. Then, look at the feeding guidelines on the bag of kibble; these are listed by age and weight and are usually pretty spot on. Dry Kibble vs Wet Canned Though many Boxers may prefer wet canned food, dry kibble is better to maintain healthy teeth and gum and a strong jaw. You'll still have to provide some level of at-home dental care , but the crunch of a hard kibble will work to some extent to remove plaque. Additionally, dry food seems to keep the stools firmer and healthier. If your Boxer is a finicky eater and balks at dry food, try mixing in just a bit of canned stick with the same brand or add just a bit of water or low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Grain vs Grain-free It's wasn't that long ago that putting a dog on a grain-free diet wasn't much of a big deal. Some grains, especially those with gluten, can cause excessive gas , upset stomach, and other issues. And, some dogs are allergic to wheat or gluten which can manifest as itching and other skin problems. But recently, a suspected link between certain grain-free dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy DCM, a canine heart disease caused veterinary experts to take pause. And, since Boxers are one of the breeds prone to DCM, it's important to understand where things are on this. Though it was first thought that any grain-free diet may be the cause, the current thought is that it is a BEG diet, meaning boutique small specialty brands that have exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, kangaroo, bison, venison, etc. Many more studies need to be done for conclusive answers to be found. For now, it is recommended to offer healthy grains and this can be done while avoiding gluten if your Boxer has an issue with it. Navigating the Many Choices of Dog Foods What to Avoid: Many brands are guilty of having at least one of these elements that you do not want your Boxer's food to have: No grains at all. Until conclusive studies are complete, play it safe and offer a kibble with some level of healthy grains unless the veterinarian recommends otherwise Boxer needs to be on a specific grain-free diet, etc. Synthetic preservatives. These can be toxic. Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , butylated hydroxytoluene BHT , and ethoxyquin, just to name a few, are linked to behavioral issues, organ damage, and some forms of cancer. Artificial coloring. Common dyes like Yellow 5 and 6 and Blue 2 are linked to behavioral and health issues. Artificial flavor enhancers. MSG is one of the worst, it is linked to anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and breathing issues. Generic animal digest, meats, oils, or fats. When anything is listed as 'animal', it is derived from a 4-D animal: dead, dying, diseased or disabled animals and can literally be any meat from any animal at all: minks from mink farms, roadkill, zoo animals, expired meats from supermarkets and butcher shops, etc. Fillers are cheap ingredients that are put into dog food to bulk it up but they have little to no nutritional value. The 'food' goes right through their system; a dog will eat but be hungry again soon afterward and this is one cause of coprophagia eating feces. These are the animal parts that are not fit for human consumption and includes such things as spinal tissue, lungs, spleens, hooves, tails, undeveloped eggs, etc. Made outside North America since meats from overseas can be questionable. The kibble will be preserved using a vitamin blend often listed as mixed tocopherals and will be naturally flavored and colored. Some level of grains. Grains that are generally well-tolerated include rice, oatmeal, and quinoa. Wholesome real meats, veggies, and fruits. Some ingredients sourced from Norway are fine; this country has very strict guidelines. If you are not sure what is in your Boxer's food, investigate it. Know about grain content and the presence or lack of additives and subpar ingredients. Recommended Dog Food for Boxers Please note that the following recommendations are formulas with some level of healthy grains; if you did not read the previous ' Grain vs Grain-free ' you may wish to do so before continuing on. This meets all of the requirements of what you're looking for. There are no synthetic preservatives; vitamins are used instead shown as mixed tocopherals. The grains in this formula are generally very well tolerated: quinoa technically a seed , oatmeal, and barley. There are 3 different recipes to choose from: beef, chicken, or lamb. Other ingredients include peas, salmon, carrots, apples, blueberries, and flaxseed. There are good levels of glucosamine chondroitin vital for joint health , antioxidants, and omega fatty acids important for skin and coat health. There are no by-products, fillers, or generic meats or oils and this is sourced and made in the USA. For this one, the base is chicken a very classic tasty protein that most dogs love , along with oatmeal, brown rice, ground barley, peas, flaxseed, carrots, tomato pomace, spinach, sweet potatoes, apples, and blueberries. All other ingredients shown on the label are either vitamins and minerals or natural preservatives. This has no wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and this is made in the USA. This brand offers a top-quality formula that is gluten-free. There is no wheat, corn, soy, by-products, artificial flavors, artificial colors, or chemical preservatives. The base is chicken and brown rice and other ingredients include white rice, oatmeal, rice bran, avocado, flax seed, herring, and kelp. It has good levels of omega fatty acids and antioxidants. The one trade-off for having it be gluten-free is that it does not contain any fruit; however, it does have all required vitamins and minerals and you can always offers a small amount of fresh fruit as snacks. Homemade Vs Commercial Commercial dog food is convenient and, if you choose a superior brand, it will ensure that your Boxer receives all needed nutrients and is on a well-rounded and well-balanced diet. And, home cooked food gives you complete control over what your Boxer eats and does not eat and can be tweaked to satisfy a finicky eater. So, there are pros and cons to each. Whether you opt for a top-quality kibble or you use good cuts of meat and fish and fresh produce in homemade meals, neither option is super-cheap. Because, of course, you get what you pay for. But, if you buy in bulk and lean toward frozen vegetables and fruits, home cooking may be a bit less expensive. That said, when you prepare meals at home, you'll need to offer a good daily vitamin and mineral supplement even good brands of kibble need to add this in because it's nearly impossible for a dog to receive all nutrients just from food alone. Some of the foods that can be incorporated into meals include: Proteins: Chicken, turkey, veal, beef, fish mackeral, haddock, salmon, whitefish, cod, and others , eggs, and certain beans kidney, lima Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli in moderation , potato, sweet potato, sugar snap peas, green beans, spinach Fruits: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, pumpkin Grains: Quinoa, oatmeal, rice Related Articles: Best Snacks, Chews, and Treats for a Boxer - A great rundown of the difference between these 3 things and top recommendations. How many calories does a Boxer dog need - Requirements based on age, size and activity level. Recommendations to lower or raise intake. Boxer dog weight issues - This breed can become overweight, usually due to a combination of eating too much and being sedentary. Boxer begging behavior - Boxers are pretty good at playing their humans and it's easy to fall into the trap of giving in to begging. Read how to stop the cycle. Choosing the Best Bowl for a Boxer - Size, height, material and design are all important. Source: Royal Canin and Pawlicy These charts should also help you in deciding how often and how much to feed. You could do the same in the case of your Boxer. And so on. You see, they could be quite confusing. Even a few grains of kibble more than the limit could potentially put my dog at the risk for obesity. So, make sure you buy a calibrated balance from a reliable source. The balance will measure out the exact grams. You see how grams can be more reliable than cups. Portions when divided into meals for definite times work best with dogs because they are suckers for routine. The best time to feed an adult is morning and evening. In the case of a Boxer pup, morning, noon, afternoon, and evening seem well-gaped feeding times. Hunger also plays a major role in obedience training. They have a better recall as a result. Boxers have a hard time tolerating abrupt changes in ambient temperature. In terms of puppies, potty training them after meal times is essential. You could do that by giving them meals regularly at the right time that you did before. Remember, their feeding routine will determine when they want to poop. Generally, they do it 10 to 20 minutes after eating. Overfeeding or underfeeding a dog shows in the way they look and behave. When you overfeed, the dog will have a bigger waist, chubby appearance, and joint problems. It will be hard in the morning but soft in the evening. At times, you may see your dog eating from rubbish cans or from any source outdoors. Based on BCS, you can also know the exact cups or cans per day that your dog needs. There are calculators for it but I trust the one by vetcalculators. They have more than 25 calculators ranging from dosage calculations to blood glucose curves. Select the BCS important. You can create the Pet ID in the patient info. Select Canine because you own a dog. The calculator gives surefire answers. Still, I want you to check them with your vet before proceeding. Once the vet confirms that the answers are reliable, you may use it for future purposes. One thing is for sure, though. Many vets add source recommend that you should free feed your dog below 4 months. They are always hungry for a reason, you see. As I discussed earlier, doing that will cause premature obesity, also known as juvenile obesity. Diseases, fractures, pregnancy, and old age are some of the things that contribute to the increase in the nutritional needs of a pet. When it comes to needs such as these, you may ignore the weight of your Boxer. After all, a pregnant dog would essentially weigh the same in the first weeks of its pregnancy. However, its needs will increase as compared to a non-pregnant dog. And this brings us to the next question. Boxers are active dogs. To meet the kind of activity that their bodies demand, they do need a lot of food. However, you should consult your vet before feeding the dog more than what it needs. Boxers may always seem hungry because they have a large appetite. However, what seems may not be true. Behind those puppy dog eyes, a greedy dog may be hidden. Or a dog that thinks the apocalypse is right around the corner. Are they eating them all? If yes, then it may not be hungry. An underlying medical condition may make the dog hungrier. Look for any signs. Have you incorporated treats into their routine? Coyotes, stray cats, foxes, skunks, rats, and other small animals have a taste for it. How are their bowel movements? The poop should be solid in the morning and evening. Are they couch potatoes? Does it counter-surf a lot? Dogs that search for food there are normally greedy speaking from my experience. At the same time, keeping them hungry every day without knowing may develop some physical signs to look for. Boxers can eat a lot of veggies and fruits. Below are some of the human foods that the dog should eat or avoid altogether. Cheese — In moderate quantities. Bananas — Yes. These can make a low-calorie diet. They are high in vitamins. They are an excellent source of fiber and potassium. Popcorn — Salted and buttered popcorn is a big NO. Otherwise, popcorn devoid of seasoning is okay. Ice cream — Nope. It contains sugar and milk. Ripe ones when cooked well are okay. Carrots — These are excellent sources of Vit. Highly recommended. Peanut butter — Only in moderation. Cucumbers — Like carrots, cucumbers are well-known low-calorie dog snacks. Potatoes — Potatoes, especially, raw potatoes contain solanine. It causes anemia in dogs. Sweet potato — High dietary fiber makes sweet potatoes a number one choice for dog lovers like me. Broccoli — Start small and start slow. Your dog will start loving it. Apples — Yup, a major snack for dogs suffering from indigestion. They contain Vit A, and C, and loads of antioxidants good for the pooch. They could potentially end up in a hospital. Oranges — Oranges are a cheap source of Vit C. Highly recommended for dogs. Corn — An excellent filler, corn helps in maintaining bowel movements. Cauliflower — Feed in moderation. Bacon — No, avoid bacon. Bread — Dogs can eat bread in moderation. Pineapple — Copper, magnesium, potassium, iron, calcium traces, zinc, and phosphorus are some of the minerals your dog will get from pineapple. Celery — This is one of the foods that could be fed to dogs right from the kitchen counter. It contains fiber, potassium, folate, vitamins, and manganese. Peas — My Milo cannot eat frozen peas. They are a rich source of fiber and minerals. Milk — Only sparingly. Your Boxer may develop lactose intolerance. If they already suffer from it, do not feed them milk then. Hot Dogs — A big no. They have fat and high salt content. Raw meat from the supermarket — A big no. You never know if raw meat has salmonella — a pathogen notorious for spreading food poisoning. Chicken — Yes. Boil it well before feeding it to your dog. Rice — Plain white rice helps dogs with digestive problems. Yogurt — I prefer curd to yogurt when Milo is pooping liquid, not stool. Strawberries — Yes, vitamin C and a teeth-friendly enzyme await to bestow your dog with their goodness. Fish — Feed your Boxie plenty of salmon for its fair dose of omega.Also, you never know what could go wrong with your dog. Some dogs are okay with small quantities of milk, for example, but others go through severe farting even by drinking that much. High quantities of salt in anything that a dog eats make them thirstier. Frequent rounds to the water source could cause sodium-ion poisoning as they tend to quench that thirst but lose precious ions in urine. The symptoms of that manifest in the form of depression, anxiety, seizures, temperatures, diarrhea, and vomiting. At the same time, too much sugar could lead to their teeth rotting sooner than you would know. These are two basic ingredients that we use in our food. Just imagine what other things could do to your dog if these two basic ingredients wreak havoc with their health. Boxers, like other dogs, are allergic to animal protein obtained from certain sources. You should understand now why I suggest owners buy reputable kibble such as Royal Canin. One way to find that out is to check their history of allergic reactions to certain foods when they were 6 months old. But protein is not the only thing the dog could be allergic to. There are chemicals to look out for such as those found in pores, molds, dust, pollens, and even pieces of shed skin around the house. Some mites or insect bites also cause great discomfort to the dog as they develop skin infections. So, when you see your Boxer sneeze, cough, breathe with difficulty, suffer from a runny nose, or other discharges, check for all these reasons. Know What Your Dog Is Allergic To Your dog may develop allergies all of a sudden or it may have already developed them beyond 6 months of its puppyhood. See what new things have you been feeding it? The protein source in that could be the potential allergen. For example, I have seen some owners switch from chicken based to beef-based kibble without giving the dog time to settle down with the transition. As a result, they developed allergies to that very protein source. One other and more valid way to check what causes allergies in the dog is to lead it through food trials. Look For Wheat, Corn, and Soy These are the biggest fillers in kibble produced by some brands and potential allergens. They want to minimize the cost of production because these are easy to obtain and use. Look for the list of ingredients and if you find these in large quantities, avoid that brand. Shun High-fat Diet High amounts of fat put Boxer and other dogs at high risk for allergies. Avoid feeding the dog hot dogs, sausages, or anything that has more than its fair share of fat. Check For Pest Infestation Pests such as fleas and their saliva cause the immune system of a dog to work overload. The histamines released as a result attacks the healthy cells of the skin; thus, causing the perceived allergic reaction. As most vests and dog trainers agree, maintain high hygiene around the house and do away with any possible sources of pests. What Can Boxers Not Eat? What Are Toxic To Boxers? Dogs of all breeds end up in a hospital in a debilitating situation when they eat them. Onions and Relatives Anything from the family of onions nightshade as they famously call it such as garlic and chives has solanine. This chemical breaks down the red blood cells of dogs, thus, causing anemia. Avocado Persin in this fruit wreaks havoc with the digestive system of the dog. You may see diarrhea lying around the house with the dog vomiting everything it eats. Alcohol Alcohol even in small doses adds toxins to their bodies. Some may even end up with a nervous breakdown. Even artificial sweeteners such as xylitol could cause hypoglycemia, which is a condition when the blood sugar level increases dramatically. One of them is kidney failure. This is the bacteria notorious for causing food poisoning in complex animals. You never know if the raw meat and eggs have these or not. I prefer feeding my dog slightly boiled meat, not too much because that, too, could become a source of allergen for him. The same is true for raw eggs. Caffeinated Drinks While caffeine makes us perky, it could potentially kill your dog. Avoid giving your dog anything that has even the lowest percentage of caffeine. Coffee, tea, energy drinks, cocoa, some meds, and so on. Macadamia Nuts Experts have listed macadamia nuts as one of the chief toxins for dogs. They cause tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, and whatnot. Just six of them could make the dog miserable enough to be hospitalized. Pits From Fruits Certain fruits may not be toxic but their pits sure are. Yeast Dough We add yeast to the dough to make it rise. Give the resultant bread to the dog and its innards will experience the same rising. Having your intestines stretched from the inside is uncomfortable in all sorts. I listed all the charts necessary to give you a heads-up. The rest is up to you and your vet. Also, look out for potential allergens in the kibble you choose. She is a trainer who posts about dog training and behavior.

Lifespan Sociability The German Shorthaired Lab is a very high-energy dog that requires a lot of exercise. Its intelligence and eager-to-please personality make for a dog that is easy to train and to teach tricks. They have good overall health, avoiding many of the health concerns that purebreds might experience. They are not aggressive and are generally happy dogs but are protective of their families, which will make them excellent guard dogs. The German Shorthaired Lab has retriever abilities. They usually inherit the retriever traits from both of their parents and are happy to play ball and Frisbee with their owners. The German Shorthaired Lab requires vigorous exercise. They need lots of walks and runs to keep them healthy and happy. A run on the beach or in a park will give them the mental and physical stimulation they require. The German Shorthaired Lab can become sniffer dogs. One of the traits of the German Shorthaired Pointer is working as an excellent tracking dog. If the German Shorthaired Lab inherits this trait, they can become a detection dog and work with law enforcement to detect narcotics and criminals. They are very good with children provided there is supervision if the children are quite young. Always teach your children how to approach any dog appropriately and how to play gently with them. Because of their need to play and run, they make fun companions for the entire family and will act as loyal protectors. Overall, the German Shorthaired Lab is a very easygoing dog that is friendly with pets and strangers. Overfeeding is possible for this hybrid because of the Labrador Retriever parentage Labs are notorious for eating too much, which is linked to obesity in this breed so do not leave food out for them for the entire day. They require a lot of exercise, and you should plan on taking this dog out for a long walk at least twice a day. This can also be accomplished by jogging or riding your bike with your dog running next to you and taking them to the park and throwing a ball around. This hybrid will do very well with an active family that plans on spending a lot of time and energy with their family pet. Like with all puppies, teaching socialization at a young age is imperative and train with a lot of positive reinforcement but with consistency and firmness. Brushing just once or twice a week will suffice unless your dog is shedding a great deal most typically in the spring and the fall. Then you might want to groom your dog every day. During this period only bathe your dog when necessary as overbathing could dry out the skin usually not much more than once a month. This hybrid does have floppy ears, and ear cleaning will be a necessary part of grooming. The usual teeth cleaning and nail trimming are additional parts of grooming necessary for all dogs. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He is submissive with humans and other dogs.He is 75 lbs. Odin has been instrumental in our work with shelter dogs because he is so confident and friendly. Shelter dogs take to him immediately. There was one dog in particular who was terrified of everything and was reacting with aggression.When I got him home and introduced him to Odin, he completely changed his ways. He followed Odin everywhere and soon learned to trust people. Odin is really a fantastic dog. He lives for Frisbee.Odin is two years old as of Sept. He is a fun and energetic guy. Now full grown, he likes to try and cuddle even with his lb. Conformation is more like a short hair. She has web feet, loves to swim, combination coat-has a little wave in it during the cooler months. Probably the best dog I have ever owned. His dad is a purebred German Shorthair Pointer and his mother is a purebred chocolate Labrador Retriever. He is an amazing dog and knows over 20 tricks, along with herding cattle. He is an amazing dog and I think he is a wonderful description of the best mix of this breed. We sometimes say he is on steroids as he is extremely muscled and has no fat on him at all the shorthair in him. Sweet, lovable, intelligent, well balanced. Wishing there could be a forever. The father of the puppies is thought to be the neighbor's black lab. The puppies all received their first set of shots and were microchipped at 7 weeks, on June 27th. They have received their first treatment of Frontline and Heartguard as well, so they are officially ready to go to their new homes! Adoptive owners will be required to finish the remainder of the puppy shots if the puppy is adopted prior to them being due for their second round of shots. The owners will also be responsible for the puppy getting it's rabies shot when old enough. Right now these puppies are just incredible bundles of cuteness, but along with that comes a lot of responsibility and work. They have just been started on housetraining, but puppies cannot be left alone all day in a kennel, so this will be a work in progress for their new families over the next several months. The family must have a plan in place for potty training if they are gone for extended hours daily. Please be ready for the time and responsibilities of owning and caring for a puppy if you are considering applying for one of Miley's puppies. If you are interested in adopting, please submit an adoption application and once approved, you may come and meet the puppies and choose which one you feel would be the best fit for your family. Interested in adopting this pet? Please click the adoption info link for more information. And then click on the "Online Application" link at the bottom of that page. Over the years, we have always kept breeding stock that was structurally correct and naturally muscular with a great personality. Our females are medium size when compared to Labs. They hold their body condition on a limited amount of food and have maintained the great personality. The stud males are very strong, correct dogs that will walk up to any stranger and lick them in the face after a couple pats on the head. All adult breeding dogs must hunt, retrieve and track a downed bird with no formal training. But along the way something unpredictable happened: we fell in love with too many of the puppies. We had to stop raising puppies because our kennel was full and we did not have time to market the pups. Our hunting guests kept asking: where did we get those beautiful Labs, what is story with the spotted female, and where can I find one? So, after many requests, we started a breeding program in .View More About Us Our Adults and Working Dogs While we'd like to tell you the spotted female was a carefully planned creation, truth be known, she just showed up one day in a litter along with 10 black puppies. She is a beautiful female that hunts, points and retrieves with great energy. She has had three litters of pups; these dogs are scattered across the US, are loved by all that have them and are a constant source of high praise by their owners see the accompanying letters of praise. Though we have 12 adult dogs in the kennel, we limit breeding stock to five adult females and three proven stud dogs. Our goals are to offer more spotted puppies; though rare, we should be able to offer more in the future. We now have three young spotted prospects that we selected from two spring litters. If they pass the hunting tests, this fall they will be added to our breeding line. View Our Current Litters Questions? We are very blessed with the dogs we have in our care. By upholding high standards in our breeding program, it is our wish that others may enjoy the great qualities and uniqueness of these Hybrid Dogs for years to come. Should you want to reserve one of our pups or started dogs, please fill out our contact form and which puppy you are inquiring about. Though it takes a lot to say his name, the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is actually one of the more popular hybrid dogs. This dog is a crossbreed, which means he is the offspring of two different parent breeds. Also known as a hybrid, mixed breed or designer dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix has been growing in popularity ever since crossbreeding dogs became a popular trend nearly two decades ago. That said, there is some controversy surrounding crossbreed dogs, but to understand this controversy, we must first take a look at the origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix. Keep reading. The German Shorthaired Pointer The German Shorthaired Pointer is an impressive and well-rounded hunting dog hailing from Germany, as his name suggests. This dog is a Jack of all trades, excelling at hunting and retrieving both in water and on land. He also has a stellar nose for prey and an incredible prey drive. Best of all, the German Shorthaired Pointer is incredibly smart. The Labrador Retriever Like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Labrador Retriever is another versatile hunting dog known for hunting and retrieving both on land and in water. Today, the Labrador Retriever is a family favorite who is also employed as a versatile working dog. He performs work as a search and rescue dog, a therapy dog, a service dog, and sometimes even a police dog. Over the last two decades, crossbreeding has exploded in popularity, resulting in a number of designer dogs like the Labradoodle, the Maltipoo , the Goldendoodle and more. And while hybrid dogs are quite popular these days, they are still somewhat controversial. This is especially true when considering newer generation crossbreed dogs like the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix. One of the most important things to consider when considering a mixed breed is that there are many traits that will be considered unpredictable. This includes traits like temperament, appearance and even health. A dog like the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix can be susceptible to any and all traits of his parent breeds. He may also be more like one parent over the other, or be a good mix of both. While this can be nerve wracking for those who like to know exactly what they are getting into when it comes to a dog or a particular breed, there are some pros of going with a crossbreed dog. One of the biggest bonuses is perhaps considering health and the idea of hybrid vigor. It is widely accepted that purebred dogs have been heavily overbred, leading to an uptick in genetic health issues over recent years. A mixed breed dog results in a widened gene pool, which can lessen the chance of certain hybrids developing genetic health issues. The German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is an incredible combination of two highly intelligent and energetic dogs. Separately, the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever are already known for their high levels of energy. In fact, it is said that both Labs and German Shorthaired Pointers can be especially puppylike and somewhat difficult well into their first few years. This will likely be the case with their hybrid offspring, so any owner should prepare for a very high energy dog that is also quite clever. He will do best in homes with owners who have a good understanding of working breeds and who appreciate a dog that requires a job to do. Many owners of German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dogs find that their dogs are excellent helpers around the house. Some have been trained to take out the trash, sort the laundry or even load the dishwasher. German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dogs are also very people oriented. They love their families and make great watchdogs. They are very playful and enjoy children, though they could be overwhelming for toddler aged youngsters. Because the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix comes from two parents with hunting backgrounds, it should come as no surprise that this dog will have a high prey drive. He may not do well with smaller pets like cats, rodents, guinea pigs, or birds. However, he will enjoy other dogs so long as he has been properly socialized. Training and socialization is key for all dogs, but ensuring your German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is properly trained and socialized can make the difference between whether or not your dog is manageable. Remember, this is a dog that can be quite energetic and even hyper, especially in his earlier years. The good news is that the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is incredibly intelligent and work oriented. He will enjoy learning from you and will be quick to respond, especially when training is kept light, fun and game-like. It could also damage the bond between the two of you. To properly socialize your dog, try and ensure he is introduced early on to many new experiences, and do your best to make sure these first impressions are positive for him. A German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix that is properly socialized and trained at an early age typically is a much happier, healthy and well rounded dog in the long run. A German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix that is not properly exercised is going to be very problematic indeed. These dogs are incredibly high energy and require plenty of activity to keep both their bodies and their minds engaged. Without proper exercise or mental stimulation , a German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix can develop serious behavioral issues and may be prone to destructive behaviors, especially if left alone too long during the day without plenty to do. Because of his background coming from two water dogs, the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix will likely enjoy swimming if he is introduced to the water correctly. This is great news for any active family who enjoys spending time on the water. German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dogs can get plenty of their exercise needs met swimming, but they will also enjoy at least two walks a day, jogs, good hikes, trips to the dog park, and plenty of playtime in a large, securely fenced backyard. We should remind you that the German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dog is a hunting dog at heart, and he has a very high prey drive. This could spell disaster if you attempt to walk your dog off of leash outside of a fenced in yard, as he could easily get away from you and end up in a dangerous situation. When walking your German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix, be sure to walk him on a properly fitted leash and harness. German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix dogs may also be prone to pulling on walks due to their high level of energy. Instead of investing in a choke chain or prong collar, we recommend looking into no pull dog harnesses. These types of harnesses have been proven to work more effectively than aversive training equipment, and they are also much safer for the dog. This harness works in a few ways to reduce pulling without harming your dog in the process. This harness will also guide your dog gently back to you if he does pull ahead. Along with ensuring you are properly exercising your German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix and ensuring he is walking on the right equipment, we also remind you to invest in his mental health. The German Shorthaired Pointer Lab Mix is a highly intelligent dog who is very work oriented, and he will not be happy if he is left without a job to do. Along with teaching him new tricks and cues as well as offering him jobs to do around the house, we also suggest investing in a few different types of puzzle toys that you can pull out when you are away. Nina Ottosson Puzzle Toy.

Prevalence: Common Pugs are members of the toy group despite their solid appearance. They range in height from 10 to 11 inches and in weight from 14 to 18 pounds six to eight kilograms. They are square dogs with substantial limbs. Pugs are the sturdiest dogs of the toy group, befitting their mastiff heritage. Pugs are known for their large, round heads, with the shortened muzzles and extensive forehead wrinkles. The vertical wrinkle on the forehead is said to resemble the Chinese character for "prince" and thus known as the "prince mark. The tail curls tightly over the hip. They have a short, but very dense double coat. Colors can range from apricot to fawn, silver and black. All but the black dogs have a dark mask and ears with a trace of darkening down the back. The ears feel like black velvet. Personality: Pugs are not the lively socialites that some of the toy breeds are. They are a bit more serious, with a dry sense of humor. The breed motto is "multum in parvo," meaning a lot in a little, with plenty of dog in a small package. Pugs can be stubborn but normally want to please. These are fairly laid-back dogs, not usually given to extensive barking, digging or chewing. Pugs tend to get along well with other dogs and are sturdy enough to get along with children. They enjoy company and can be quite affectionate. True to their grouping, they are good companion dogs. Living With: Pugs are extremely easy to keep and have a serious tendency to become obese unless their diet and exercise are watched carefully. With the short muzzle, they do not do well in hot, humid weather and must be observed carefully for heatstroke. Pugs do tend to snore, again a result of the short muzzle. The prominent eyes are easily injured and care must be taken to keep them moist. Pugs are fairly robust and often live to 14 or 15 years of age. Pugs do best with some daily exercise to help with their weight problems. Despite their heroic alarm years ago, they are not usually great watchdogs, preferring instead to greet newcomers with a wagging tail. Pugs should be socialized to keep that outgoing temperament, and they do well with other pets. Grooming is important, both for the shedding from the dense coat and to keep facial wrinkles clean. A quick daily grooming, even a swipe with a hound mitt, usually suffices for the coat and a gentle wiping with a wet cloth for the face. History: While the pug is often associated with Holland, the breed originated in China, probably bred down from one of the local mastiff-type dogs. The little dogs with the round heads and expressive facial wrinkles were then transported to Holland via trading ships of the Dutch East India Company. In , a pug sounded the alarm that saved Prince William from the approaching Spanish soldiers, and the breed forever after was tied to the royal House of Orange. Napoleon's wife had a pet pug, and the duke and duchess of Windsor had a pug as a royal companion. Victorian England took on pugs as the latest rage in canine fashion and many pugs can be spotted in paintings of that era. The word "pug" may come from the Latin "pugnus" for fist, possibly describing the round face and head. The name does not fit the breed's temperament, because these are not really guard dogs, but designed first and foremost as companion dogs. Related Pet Care Articles. 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. Pugs are clowns at heart, but they carry themselves with dignity. Pugs are playful dogs, ready and able for games , but they are also lovers, and must be close to their humans. Pugs love to be the center of attention, and are heartsick if ignored. Pugs are square and thickset, usually weighing no more than 20 pounds. Their heads are large and round, with large, round eyes. They have deep and distinct wrinkles on their faces. Legend has it that the Chinese, who mastered the breeding of this dog, prized these wrinkles because they resembled good luck symbols in their language. His ears are smooth, black and velvety. He has a characteristic undershot jaw the lower teeth extend slightly beyond the upper teeth and a tightly curled tail. Personality-wise, Pugs are happy and affectionate, loyal and charming, playful and mischievous. They are very intelligent, however, they can be willful, which makes training challenging. If trained and well-socialized , they get along well with other animals and children. Because they are a small, quiet breed and are relatively inactive when indoors, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers. Pugs have a short, double coat, and are known for shedding profusely. Pug Highlights Loyal and affectionate: Pugs are known for being very loyal and affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle and be around their owners, and they make great companions. Easy to care for: Pugs are relatively easy to care for. Good with children: Pugs are generally good with children. They are patient and gentle, and they enjoy playing with kids. Adaptable: Pugs are adaptable dogs. They can live in apartments or houses, and they can do well in both hot and cold climates. Funny and playful: Pugs are known for being funny and playful dogs. They enjoy making their owners laugh, and they are always up for a good time. Some historians believe they are related to the Tibetan Mastiff. They were prized by the Emperors of China and lived in luxurious accommodations, sometimes even being guarded by soldiers. Pugs are one of three types of short-nosed dogs that are known to have been bred by the Chinese: the Lion dog, the Pekingese , and the Lo-sze, which was the ancient Pug. Evidence of Pug-like dogs has been found in ancient Tibet and Japan. In the latter s and early s, China began trading with European countries. Reportedly, the first Pugs brought to Europe came with the Dutch traders, who named the breed Mopshond, a name still used today. Pugs quickly became favorites of royal households throughout Europe, and even played a role in the history of many of these families. In Holland, the Pug became the official dog of the House of Orange after a Pug reportedly saved the life of William, Prince of Orange, by giving him a warning that the Spaniards were approaching in .It is known that black pugs existed in the s because the famous artist, William Hogarth, was a Pug enthusiast. He portrayed a black Pug and many others in his famous paintings. In , Goya also portrayed Pugs in his paintings. Before she married Napoleon Bonaparte, she was confined at Les Carmes prison. In the early s, Pugs were standardized as a breed with two lines becoming dominant in England. Pugs were first exhibited in England in .The studbook began in with 66 Pugs in the first volume. Meanwhile, in China, Pugs continued to be bred by the royal families. When the British overran the Chinese Imperial Palace in , they discovered several Pugs, and brought some of the little dogs back to England with them. Two Pugs named Lamb and Moss were brought to England. He was an outstanding dog and was bred many times to dogs of both the Willoughby and Morrison lines. Click is credited with making Pugs a better breed overall and shaping the modern Pug as we know it today. Pugs became very popular during the Victorian era and were featured in many paintings, postcards, and figurines of the period. Often, they were depicted wearing wide, decorative collars or large bows around their short, thick necks. Queen Victoria had many Pugs, and also bred them. The queen preferred apricot-fawn Pugs, whereas another Pug fancier, Lady Brassey, made black Pugs fashionable after she brought some back from China in .At first, Pugs were very popular, but by the turn of the century, interest in the breed waned. A few dedicated breeders kept breeding and, after some years, the breed regained popularity. Pug Size Pugs weigh between 14 and 18 pounds male and female. Generally, they are 10 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. He tends to be a sedentary dog, content to sit in your lap as you read a book or watch a movie. Au contraire. He is a playful, comical dog that enjoys living it up, and delights his owner with silly antics. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training , and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings or other relatives of the parents is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when he grows up. Socialization helps ensure that your Pug puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling him in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking him to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help him polish his social skills. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Cheyletiella Dermatitis Walking Dandruff : This is a skin condition that is caused by a small mite. If you see heavy dandruff, especially down the middle of the back, contact your vet. The mites that cause this condition are contagious, which means all pets in the household need to treated. A diagnosis of PDE can only be made by testing the brain tissue of the dog after it dies. PDE usually affects young dogs, causing them to seizure, circle, become blind, then fall into a coma and die. This can happen in a few days or weeks. They are prone to a condition called idiopathic epilepsy : seizures for no known reason. If your Pug has seizures, take him to your vet to determine what treatment is appropriate. Nerve Degeneration : Older Pugs that drag their rear, stagger, have trouble jumping up or down, or become incontinent may be suffering from nerve degeneration. Since their front legs often remain strong, some owners buy carts to help their Pugs get around, and the veterinarian might be able to prescribe medication to help alleviate symptoms. If your Pug squints or the eyes look red and tear excessively, contact your vet immediately. Corneal ulcers usually respond well to medication, but if left untreated, can cause blindness or even rupture the eye. Dry Eye : Keratoconjunctivitis sicca and pigmentary keratitis are two conditions seen in Pugs. They can occur at the same time, or individually. Your vet can perform tests to determine if this is the cause, which can be controlled with medication and special care. Pigmentary keratits is a condition that causes black spots on the cornea, especially in the corner near the nose. If the pigment covers the eye, it can cause blindness. Your vet can prescribe medication that will help keep the eyes moist and dissolve the pigment. Both of these eye conditions require life-long therapy and care. Eye Problems : Because their large eyes bulge, Pugs are prone to a variety of eye problems, including proptosis the eyeball is dislodged from the eye socket and the eyelid clamps behind it ; distichiasis an abnormal growth of eyelashes on the margin of the eye, resulting in the eyelashes rubbing against the eye ; progressive retinal atrophy a degenerative disease of the retinal visual cells that leads to blindness ; and entropion the eyelid, usually the lower lid, rolls inward, causing the hair on the lid to rub on the eye and irritate it. Allergies : Some Pugs suffer from a variety of allergies , ranging from contact to food allergies. If your Pug is licking at his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, suspect allergy and have him checked by your vet. Demodectic Mange : Also called demodicosis, all dogs carry a little passenger called a demodex mite. The mother dog passes this mite to her pups in their first few days of life. If your Pug has a weakened or compromised immune system, however, it can develop demodectic mange. Demodectic mange can be localized or generalized. In the localized form, patches of red, scaly, skin with hair loss appears on the head, neck and forelegs. Even so, you should take your dog to the vet because it can turn into the generalized form of demodectic mange. Generalized demodectic mange covers the entire body and affects older puppies and young adult dogs. The dog develops patchy skin, bald spots, and skin infections all over the body. The American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology recommends neutering or spaying all dogs that develop generalized demodectic mange because there is a genetic link. Staph Infection : Staph bacteria is commonly found on skin, but some dogs will develop pimples and infected hair follicles if their immune systems are stressed. The lesions can look like hives where there is hair; on areas without hair, the lesions can look like ringworm. You should contact your vet for appropriate treatment. Yeast Infection : If your Pug smells bad, is itchy and has blackened, thickened skin, he may have a yeast infection. It commonly affects the armpits, feet, groin, neck, and inside the ears. Your vet can prescribe medications to clear this up. Hemi-vertebrae : Short-nosed breeds, such as Pugs, Bulldogs and French Bulldogs, can have misshaped vertebrae. Sometimes, only a few of the vertebrae are affected and the dog is able to live a normal life. Others will stagger and display an uncoordinated, weak gait between 4 and 6 months of age. Some dogs get progressively worse and may even become paralyzed. The cause of the condition is unknown. Surgery can help. Hip Dysplasia : This malady affects small breeds as well as large breeds, including Pugs. Many factors, including genetics, environment and diet, are thought to contribute to this deformity of the hip joint. Affected Pugs are usually able to lead normal, healthy lives with proper veterinary attention. Legg-Perthes Disease : This is another disease involving the hip joint. Many toy breeds are prone to this condition. When your Pug has Legg-Perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur the large rear leg bone is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. Usually, the first signs of Legg-Perthes, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, occur when puppies are 4 to 6 months old. The scar tissue that results from the surgery creates a false joint and the puppy is usually pain free. Patellar Luxation : The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, but many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. Vaccination Sensitivity : There are reports of Pugs suffering from sensitivity to routine vaccinations. Usually, symptoms include hives, facial swelling, soreness and lethargy. A dog that is sensitive to vaccines can develop complications or die, though this is rare. Watch your Pug carefully for a few hours after being vaccinated and call the vet if you notice anything unusual. Pug Care Though playful and rambunctious, the Pug is a low-maintenance companion, making it ideal for older owners. Because they are a small, quiet breed and are relatively inactive when indoors, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers as well. Light sleepers may also want to invest in a pair of ear plugs — Pugs are prone to snore. How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. These dogs love to eat, eat, eat. This, combined with their small stature, puts them at risk for obesity. As a Pug owner, you must show great restraint. Do not indulge him with food. Feed appropriate portions , limit treats and encourage exercise. For more on feeding your Pug, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Pugs are typically fawn-colored or black. The fawn color can have different tints, such as apricot or silver, and all Pugs have a short, flat, black muzzle. Pugs shed like crazy, especially in summer. The wise Pug owner accepts this, and adjusts her wardrobe accordingly, wearing light-colored clothing that better hides hair. Following that, regular brushing and bathing helps keep the coat in good condition and shedding to a minimum. A monthly bath is sufficient, though some owners bathe their Pugs more frequently. These folds are hotbeds for infection if allowed to become damp or dirty. The wrinkles must be dried thoroughly after bathing, and wiped out in-between baths. Some owners simply use a dry cotton ball; others use commercial baby wipes to wipe out the folds. Because they protrude, the eyes are vulnerable to injury and irritation from soaps and chemicals. Like many small breeds, the Pug can be susceptible to gum disease. Regular brushing with a small, soft toothbrush and doggie toothpaste helps prevent this. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Though small, the Pug is not delicate like some toy breeds, so he is a good breed choice for families with children. However, children who want an active pet to retrieve balls or play soccer will be disappointed with a Pug. Adults should always supervise interactions between children and pets. Properly trained and socialized , the Pug enjoys the companionship of dogs , and can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Pug Rescue Groups Pugs are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Pugs in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Sometimes calm and dignified. Always sturdy and stable, good-humored and amiable. This is the Pug. Though peaceful with all the world people and other animals , the Pug will sound off with his rather odd-sounding bark when visitors arrive. Then he will welcome them inside with snorts, snuffles, and grunts. As is the case with most short-faced dogs, his large expressive eyes, wrinkled forehead, cocked head, innocent expression, and strange sounds bring out parental feelings in many people. Indeed, a Pug is very childlike and always wants to be with you. If not spoiled too much, he can be depended on to maintain his sweet, comical, charming personality. Though stubborn, Pugs seldom get into real mischief. Adults spend much of the day sleeping. Gassiness can be an embarrassing problem, and housebreaking can be a challenge, especially in the rain, which Pugs detest. The biggest concern with this breed is their many serious health problems. If you want a dog who.Is small, yet sturdy and blocky Has a short face with large expressive eyes Has a short coat Is usually polite with everyone, including other pets Doesn't need much exercise Seldom gets into real mischief A Pug may be right for you. If you don't want to deal with.Snorting, snuffling, wheezing, snoring, some slobbering Gassiness flatulence Slowness to housebreak Constant shedding — every day! Lots of potential health problems due to his deformed build — yes, it might look cute, but it is badly deformed A Pug may not be right for you. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Pugs have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up. More traits and characteristics of the Pug If I was considering a Pug, I would be most concerned about.Health problems. Unfortunately, breeders deliberately breed these good-natured dogs to be deformed. As such, they suffer more than their share of health problems — not only with their breathing, but also eye diseases, joint diseases, and a devastating fatal neurological disease called Pug Dog Encephalitis. Read more about Pug Health. Gassiness flatulence. All short-faced breeds gulp air when they eat, and that air has to go somewhere, after all. However, commercial diets make flatulence worse by including fibrous or hard-to-digest ingredients. Pugs who are fed a homemade diet of real meat and vegetables have much less trouble with gassiness. Constant shedding. It usually comes as a shock to new Pug owners just how much a Pug sheds. Most dog breeds have two shedding seasons per year where they shed the majority of their dead hairs. But Pugs are constant shedders who drop a moderate amount of hair all year. You need to be sure that you're okay with this! Pug "sounds". Pugs snort, snuffle, wheeze, grunt, and snore loudly. The sounds are endearing to some people; nerve-wracking to others. Pugs can be slow to pick up the concept of housebreaking. Expect several months of consistent crate training. Read more about housebreaking your Pug. Though they seldom get into real trouble, most Pugs are at least mildly stubborn. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say. Food is a great motivator with this breed, but too many cookies equals a fat Pug. Also you don't want a dog who only obeys when you're waving a biscuit at him. Instead you should establish the right relationship between the two of you, where you are the leader and he is the follower. In other words, you must teach your Pug to respect you. Read more about Pug Training. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. Pug Dog Behavior Overview Every dog is an individual and will have his or her own quirks and character traits. With that said, each breed does have certain personality traits that while not found in every dog, are general behaviors that one can expect. And when it comes to lovable behaviors and even temperament, the Pug places high on the list. This section will discuss what you can expect with the Pug dog and tips for owners to deal with some of the more, well, let's just say, "interesting" aspects of this breed. Most owners will agree that the Pug knows what he wants.And he'll use a few different techniques to see if his owner will cave in. For the right owner, this is not necessarily a bad thing.In many cases, what the dog wants is attention. Can who can blame him! This is not an independent breed. Zeke Photo courtesy of owner Virginia Vaughn Zeke Photo courtesy of owner Virginia Vaughn Throughout generations, the Pug was bred to be a very valued companion and for quite a while this breed was kept by royalty. Pugs were even dressed up in clothing mostly ruffled shirts and pantaloons to sit at the front of horse-drawn carriages. He was put on display and revered. Statues were built and artists spent time paining portraits of this unique breed. Being a brachycephalic breed, the Pug was never extensively used for hunting and was only briefly used as a guard dog. Throughout history and up until today, Pugs have been and are indoor companion dogs. They crave the company of their humans. What will a Pug do? It's not uncommon for his to plant his feet down and refuse to go outside with you.He may try and make you work for it a bit. If you are both resting on the sofa, he's sprawled half across your body and you want to get up to get a drink, your Pug may groan a bit and make you roll him off. Most of his behaviors will be amusing, if you have a good sense of humor and if you are the type of owner who wants a dog with tons of personality. Hard to Train? Pugs are no harder to train than any other dog and most do excellent with both housebreaking and commands. It is important to note that any type of training is not accomplished in a day or even in a week. The 2 elements that will help you train your Pug will be ones that compliment and play off of his personality. You'll need to work a bit to keep him focused and you'll need to follow proper guidelines in regard to praise and reward. In some aspects, a Pug dog does better than some other breeds simply because his desire to please his human and his love of tasty treats makes for a motivated dog. There may be some quirks that make certain elements in need of extra attention. The Pug's easy going temperament and somewhat clingy personality can cause the dog to suffer with Separation Anxiety having a difficult time staying calm when left home alone. Taking time to prepare a really good indoor environment can help quite a bit. Adding isolation to the problem of feeling panicked when left alone only compounds matters. For this reason most Pugs do well with a good sized indoor gated off area that is set up in a main room of the house. The living room or kitchen are good choices. There should be space for toys and chews , a water dispenser, a food bowl, a comfortable sleeping area and a spot with newspaper or pee pads for bathroom needs. You can read more about this in the House Training section Begging Pugs do tend to have begging behaviors. If an owner gives in to this during the first year of puppy-hood, it can set up a foundation of begging behavior down the road. It is really difficult to not give in to those "puppy dog eyes" however, setting up rules and guidelines, with feeding in particular, lends to better health. While some "human" foods are perfectly fine for a canine to consume, it is the manner in which a dog is given that food that will either reinforce or discourage the begging. While home cooking for this breed is highly recommended, any food given off of an owner's plate is not a good idea. Once a dog is given any morsel, he will repeat the begging behavior again. A dog metaphorically thinks, "If I begged and received, surely all I need to do is keep up this behavior and I'm sure to eventually receive a treat again! Once this is learned, a Pug will obey commands, listen to the word "No" and show better manners. Meals should be scheduled, and a Pug should be commanded to sit before his bowl is placed down. Treats and snacks should be reserved for training and once a Pug is fully trained, snacks can be reserved for reinforcing good behavior. Note: If a Pug always seems hungry without good reason, reassess the quality of meals and snacks. Worms and other health issues can cause increased appetite, so bring this to the attention of the vet if you cannot resolve this. Chewing Chewing is usually a behavior that is triggered by something as opposed to being an inbred trait or part of a dog's personality. Teething certainly brings strong urges to chew and boredom or anxiety also causes a dog to chew. For teething, offering ice cubes either plain or flavored can help to sooth sore gums. Chilling teething toys in the freezer can also help. Be sure to choose sturdy ones with different textures that promote good dental hygiene and healthy teeth. During this brief phase that all puppies go through, keeping personal items out of reach can prevent the destruction of shoes, pocketbooks, wallets, etc. Keeping a close eye on a teething puppy allows an owner to quickly stop undesirable behavior: Clap your hands to get the pup's attention, take away any object that is not a toy and offer a good chew toy instead, offering praise as the puppy mouths it. Temperament with Other Dogs The Pug generally gets along well with other dogs. Some can be skittish of larger dogs and some will engage full force to be the life of the party. It is rare for a Pug dog to be overly dominant to any other animal and his friendly nature may make him vulnerable to large, more aggressive canines. When out at dog parks or if visiting friends who have pets, it is always a good idea to keep watch. Puppies, in particular, are very inquisitive, sometimes charging ahead into a situation in which they are not prepared. The Pug is by no means shy or submissive to all other dogs, it is more a matter of this breed being a bit more curious and friendly as opposed to what may be other somewhat serious dogs. With Children This breed usually gets along very well with kids of all ages. In a household with younger children who may tend to get rowdy and noisy, it can be helpful to have an area set up in advance, that a Pug dog can retreat to if he is feeling overwhelmed. Often, this can just be a dog bed or other resting area, set back a bit in a quiet corner of a main room. Even though the puppy or dog may want to take a break, he will still want to be able to see and hear his humans, therefore placing him in a separate room is usually not a good idea. Tank St. Bernard and Pugsly 20 weeks old Photo courtesy of the Caywood Family Mimicking One of the best personalty traits of the Pug dog breed is his tendency to mimic his owners. Always aiming to please, a Pug will tend to be more laid back or more outgoing, depending on his owner's nature and habits. This is a learned behavior and it can change over time. This breed is very adaptable, as long as his basic needs are met and he is in a healthy environment. Energy Levels Puppies will be more independent, exploring to find out the answer to "what is this? It is normal for Pug puppies to scamper around, sliding on floors and sniffing at just about everything. It is also normal for pups to mouth objects, since that is one of their main methods of exploration and learning. For this reason, homes should be periodically "puppy proofed", removing any and all small objects off the floor and placed out of reach. An adult will be more relaxed, often content to sit beside or on his owner in front of the TV. One or two 15 to 20 minute walks per day will help to keep this dog healthy.They tend to pick up cues from their humans and then follow along, so an owner should take the initiative to take breaks and never push the dog to go beyond what he can handle Sensitivity This breed is sensitive to his environment and to those around him. In regard to environment, not only does he physically react to temperature he may shiver in a cold house and have trouble breathing in a hot, humid house and how comfortable or not his living quarters are, he also does best in low-key, positive atmosphere. In regard to the interaction he has with his owners, Pugs are rather sensitive to harsh words and tone of voice. How you discipline your Pug will have lasting consequences in both how well he listens and how he reacts to you. If a Pug his yelled at, he can emotionally back away and it can take quite some time for his hurt feelings to mend. Pugs should be rewarded for good behavior, not punished for misdeeds. Without tons of non-judgmental love, this breed can become emotionally withdrawn. While it is recommended to speak in a confident, firm voice when training, be sure to show enthusiasm for things done right and respectful correction for misbehavior. Just about every resource lists one of the Pug dog's traits as being "comical", but what does this mean? Sometimes, the dog is just being a dog, but his appearance can make normal behaviors seem amusing. Other times, it is a matter of a Pug wanting attention.In this regard, command and trick training is often successful, since a Pug will crave those "good boys" or "good girls", a happy pat and a yummy treat. One element to keep in mind, is that even though this breed is known as a "joker", he is not always turned "on" and cannot be the entertainer all of the time. Just like any other pet, a Pug needs downtime to rest and relax. Punk 7 months old Photo courtesy of owner: Miranda Kuney Noises Many, but not all, do exhibit some rather amusing noises. If you are seeking a quiet dog, the Pug may not be the best choice. The most common noises are: burps, flatulence, snorts and snores. Most of this is expected and normal, however if your dog has a sudden or severe increase in breathing related noises, a veterinarian checkup is recommended. Since snores can be quite loud, some owners find it helpful to obtain a white noise machine which can muffle out night time snores. As a Whole This is a well-rounded breed, good in just about any sized household and most certainly a close canine companion that is loyal and extremely friendly. Pugs love to play, learn and be part of the family. Good with other pets, including cats, the Pug is a true family dog. Sometimes wary of strangers, if an owner has regular visitors to the home, they will be accepted over time as long as the Pug does not feel excluded. Most have a very deep bond with their owners, wanting to sleep in their human's bed. Since this is the largest of all toy sized breeds, an adult can take up a good amount of room and may snore in his owner's ear, but will be much happier than if left in another room. This breed does best when the following is offered: A well rounded, healthy diet of wholesome foods A good selection of interactive toys Treated with affection, respect and tolerance A warm, comfortable place to sleep that encourages a feeling of safety and security Plenty of interaction with family members, not having any prolonged periods of isolation Kept inside, except when outside with owners during non-severe weather conditions to exercise and play Brought for regular check-ups with an experienced and reputable veterinarian preferably with previous or current Pug patients , including dental care This is a perfect dog to have for singles or a family who can offer an inside environment with daily outside bursts of activity. Please remember that this breed is not an outside dog. A Pug should never be left outdoors, unattended, for any amount of time. If you are a sucker for a cute face with wrinkles , a dog that shows emotions and an affectionate companion this breed is for you. 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. Pugs have very distinct physical traits that may prompt you to take one home to your family, but before bringing a Pug home, it is important to consider their personality and temperament. Pugs may be well known for their wrinkled faces, stubby legs, and compact frame, but the personality and temperament characteristic of Pugs is vital to understand before choosing one to bring home. During this initial time in their history, Pugs were only allowed to be owned by members of the Chinese imperial household and Tibetan monasteries. Pugs possess a lineage steeped in respect and adoration. They were first brought to Europe around and quickly became a favorite of the wealthy. Pugs are considered one of the oldest canine breeds in existence today. In recent years, they have grown in popularity and now are a well-known and recognized dog breed around the world. Pug Characteristics Pugs are small in stature and are part of the toy breed. They weigh on average between pounds and measure at approximately inches at the shoulder. Despite their petite stature, pugs are full of personality. They are most well known for their short snout, curly tail, large head, and protruding eyes. Unlike many dog breeds, Pugs were not bred to perform a task. They are not hunters, guard dogs, or retrievers; instead, they are companion dogs. Pugs can have a stubborn streak, but though they may be stubborn, they are not aggressive and are eager to please. They can be trained with dedication , patience, and the use of treats as motivation. Pugs are a suitable dog for families with children because of their small stature and love of attention. Because of these qualities, Pugs thrive in homes where they will receive copious amounts of love and attention with very little time alone. Pugs are often an easy-going dog that prioritize pleasing their owners above all else. Pug Behavior Pugs are a calm dog breed that enjoys spending their days napping. Their low energy level means it is easy to keep a Pug in good physical health with just a small walk or quick playtime. Pug behavior is often seen as silly because they are often quite lazy until they get a quick burst of energy, which is then often followed by a nap. Since they are food motivated, Pugs often develop the frowned upon behavior of begging for food. However, with some training and dedication, this habit can be trained away. Pugs are typically a vocal dog breed, which includes barking, yapping, grunting, snorting, or other noises. This may be seen as an undesirable quality depending upon the owner and their lifestyle. Because Pugs snouts are very short, they often wheeze after excessive exercise. If these vocal qualities are unwanted, training can also be used to correct these behaviors. Pug Personality Traits Pugs are intelligent and playful, but also extremely affectionate. Because they are intelligent, they can be mischievous, especially when left alone for extended periods of time. Pugs are a friendly breed, which makes them behave well around other pets and small children. There are many qualities that comprise the unique composition of a Pug personality, but chief among them is their love of sleep. Pugs are wonderful family dogs that love their family unconditionally and will want to spend their entire life by the side of their owners. If you decide a Pug is the right breed for you, it is likely you will be soon sharing your bed with your new family member. Marissa Taffer is a consultant, writer and strategist based in Philadelphia. She lives and works with her rescue dog Charlie, a certified therapy dog. Their size and personality make them a great pet as well as an urban or family dog. Does your dog eat wet or dry food? Let us know and get started with healthy personalized meal plans! Wet Food The Pug: A brief history The pug originated in China, and these dogs were reported to be the prized possessions of the Emporers. How did these regal creatures come to be household pets here in the US? Pugs made their way into the hands of some Dutch traders who brought the pups from Holland over to England. Like in China, the English royalty also bred and kept Pugs as their companions of choice. The English breeding lead to the more refined dogs we see today. In , the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club. They have come in and out of popularity ever since. As you can see from this very brief history, the Pug is a dog that was bred purely as a human companion. They are not generally used as working, hunting, or sporting dogs. They tend to be happiest when being spoiled rotten by their humans! Pug Temperament Pugs are very pleasant dogs and they make great pets. Most Pugs are suited for life with both small children and other dogs. If a Pug is in a fight with another dog, there is a slim chance that they are the ones who started it. Pugs are happiest when hanging out with you. If you enjoy relaxing on the couch or like to read a lot, the Pug might be the perfect companion for you. Like any other breed, you should always supervise young children and dogs and not leave them alone together. Eager to please Pugs are friendly dogs. They will lick your face and do everything they can think of to make you laugh. They form close bonds with their humans. They also are not the type of dog that believes in personal space. They want to be near you all the time. If you work from home or are raising young children, this might be the perfect pet for you. You should also not isolate your Pug from the rest of the family gating them only in certain parts of the home. Pugs were bred to be companions and they are happiest when they are part of the family. Not overly athletic As Pugs were bred for a life of leisure, they are not the most athletic dogs. Some pugs do enjoy participating in sports like Rally competitive obedience , Agility, or even learning to do some tricks. Pugs love to eat and they can pack on the pounds pretty quickly. Keeping your pup at a healthy weight will help prevent other health issues from popping up, especially as your pet gets older. Typical Pug Physique Small Pugs are a smaller dog breed with the average pup weighing in at pounds when fully grown. This makes the pug an ideal candidate for those living in apartments and urban environments. They can easily fit in a carrier or Sherpa bag, which can also make them ideal travel companions. Brachycephalic Pugs are brachycephalic , which means they have a flat face! While this is a descriptive term, it also means a few things in terms of health risks. Brachycephalic dogs are prone to breathing and eye issues. Because they do not have a long nose to offer protection, they are more susceptible to eye issues or injuries. They may also have limited depth perception. Next time you see a pug at play, watch to see if they crash into anything. Another significant note about brachycephalic dogs is that extreme temperatures have a stronger impact on them. If you live in an extreme climate hot or freezing cold — consult your vet about ways to help your pug thrive. This may include limiting outdoor time or helping your pup stay warm in the cold weather. Curly tail A signature trait in the pug physique is the curly tail. The breed standard , as set by the Pug Dog Club of America says, the tail is curled as tightly as possible over the hip. The double curl is perfection. Short-haired Pugs are short-haired pups making their coats easier to maintain. You will, however, still need to bathe them regularly, take care of their skin, nails, and ears. Note that pugs do shed quite a bit — their looks can be deceiving. If you have severe allergies, bringing a Pug into your space might not be the best idea. The pug breed standard allows for two colors, fawn, and black. Brindle, white, or blue pugs do not meet the breed standard. The Pug Dog Club of America says that reputable breeders are not interested in the development of additional colors. Famous Pugs In addition to making great pets, Pugs personalities lend themselves to stardom. Pugs have been featured in movies, on TV, and even become internet sensations. The film is about an unlikely friendship and is a real tearjerker. Doug The Pug Doug the Pug is an internet sensation. He has a NYT bestselling book and merch for sale through his website. Doug lives with his mom in Nashville, Tenessee. The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie. They are also loved for their bright personalities! Pugs may be small in size, but they have huge hearts and make some of the most dependable four-legged family members around. Read on to learn about the surprising characters that give this breed unique appeal. Queen Victoria was particularly renowned for having an affinity for the breed due to its small, cuddly look and figure. Their memorable features—bulging eyes and compressed muzzles—sparked her interest. Thanks to her patronage, pugs continued to rise in status. Now more than ever, these ridiculously cute little dogs have become a favorite breed worldwide. Clearly, they continue to win over hearts with no indication of slowing down anytime soon. For generations, pugs have been a fan-favorite of many families and dog lovers alike. Known for being a wrinkly but playful companion, these breeds will never fail to put a smile on your face. Nevertheless, there's much more to this breed than just their cuteness. Pugs boast many distinct personality traits that make them incredibly endearing, loving partners at home. Here are five of them: 1: Pugs Have a Gentle Disposition Pugs are truly among the sweetest and gentlest dog breeds. This attitude is perfectly embodied in their charming demeanor. Pugs have a peerless talent for making people feel comfortable in their presence. Nothing makes these dogs happier than giving their loved ones a warm embrace or snuggling. Wide-eyed and stubby-nosed, it's nearly difficult not to feel a rush of affection for them as soon as you meet! And when that happens, the world can seem much better. According to the American Kennel Club, a trusted expert of reputable breeders in the United States, they can thrive in various environments, from an apartment to a suburban family home. Thanks to their melting-sweet aura, they blend in perfectly with any lifestyle. They may be small in stature, but their versatility is certainly prized—one reason they will always remain appreciated by all. What does that mean? Pugs are the ideal pet for households that do not wish the challenge of high-energy animals. Naturally, they need regular walks, grooming, and ample opportunities for early socialization with people and animals. But they don't require quite as much commitment as more active breeds. In fact, you might see them lounging in their beds all day long. They actually love to meet new faces! These little pups love to display their affection for any new person that comes into their lives. It's frequent to see a pug instinctively zooming up to strangers with jolly enthusiasm and an instinctual desire to make new friends. Then, as if it has known them its entire life, a pug dog will start wiggling its nose with excitement wanting to be petted or cuddled by the newcomer in a short time. Underneath that tiny surface lives a family-protective beast. Although pugs may not resemble the typically large guard dogs, they often show signs of anxiety if they sense that their family is being threatened. They also trigger hostile behavior, like barking when someone aggressively attacks them or their companions. Considerations to Remember Before Bringing a Pug Home Welcoming a pug puppy or dog into your home is thrilling for both pets and owners. These companion dogs carry an overriding, loyal affection and a playful trait. But before you create irreplaceable memories with these canines, you must be willing to put in the necessary effort. With proper training and reverence for routine, these sweet munchkins can be wonderful buddies to any household. Moreover, they can certainly radiate lots of love without any worries. Many people are wild about the squishy faces of these little fur babies. Still, potential owners should remember that they may still exhibit a varying range of behaviors compared to other breeds. Establishing knowledge of their temperament is crucial for successful integration into their forever home. Spanning from their whimsical personalities to occasional stubbornness, incoming pet owners should research its characteristics to assess if they can stay committed. Doing so can guarantee a seamless transition into living together as a family and keeping everyone at peace. Pug Health Issues Pugs are exceptionally fun-loving dogs with unmistakable grumpy faces and signature curly tails. They have an intelligent and sportive essence that has gained them a lot of popularity worldwide. Unfortunately, these brachycephalic breeds often suffer from breathing difficulties due to their short muzzles and tight airways. They are also susceptible to pug dog encephalitis PDE , a neurological condition that can occur in the pug breed. In some cases, pugs can get tired more easily and have trouble regulating their body temperatures. Consistent exercise can also be beneficial for their overall well-being. These toy breeds may seem less active, but providing them a pastime is still paramount for preserving their vibrancy. More importantly, giving them daily outdoor activity is an excellent way to help unleash their natural capability and curb behavioral problems. Pug Grooming Like furry, large dog breeds, pugs also have a particular set of needs with hair care. Potential owners must take extra care of their silky, delicate fur to keep them good-looking. Regular brushing is a must throughout the year to help prevent matting, which can end up trapping dirt and moisture close to their skin. However, immediate removal is essential for those times when mats do form. This is because broken hairs and split ends can cause further damage. Pug Sleeping Patterns Before bringing a pug into your home, you should be mindful of its typical sleeping patterns. Depending on their disposition and level of physical activity, pugs prefer sleeping during the day rather than at night. Sadly, this may mean that your new furry friend's snoring or anxiety problems keep you up at night. Giving them plenty of playtime is strongly suggested to satisfy their instinctual need to expend energy before seeking comfort in slumber. Pug Drooling Habits Those cute pug faces may make you instantly fall in love. But beware: along with that adorableness comes a drooling habit. Thus, you have to be certain that you are prepared for the mess of dog saliva that will inevitably be there when these sweet puppies arrive. The significance of diligent house training in fostering a stress-free home cannot be overstated. Set expectations beforehand, and ensure you have the resources available to clean up regularly after your lovable doggo. Remember, the wrinkled muzzle of a pug can bring just as much joy as it can frustration. So tread lightly, and plan for any potential messes! Perfect Petzzz is the perfect substitute for anyone seeking to experience the delights of pug ownership. If housebreaking worries you, there is no need to sweat—these adorable animals will never make those messes! Get your pug love fulfilled with an adorable alternative. Browse our amazing animal collection at Perfect Petzzz! Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published.

Welcome to Miniature Labs! Labs have been on the top of the list when choosing a family pet therapy dogs and hunting companions. The Miniature Labradors are really no different when it comes to temperament, looks and being family friendly. They are a bit smaller so they take up less space! They still have all the great attributes as a standard lab like great coats, webbed feet for swimming and otter tails. There have been a couple of good breeders that have invested a lot of time into the Miniature Labrador Retriever. We hope that these dogs will continue to bless all of us with their GREAT personalities and their zest for life for a long time to come! We breed our miniature Labrador puppies using many of the breeds listed on our miniature lab breed origen page. However, we do try to keep "Lab" as our primary breed. By doing this, it helps to preserve what past miniature labrador retriever breeders have started as well as help build the future of the mini lab breed. Above is a 15 month old standard labrador Chocolate Left lbs next to one of our miniature labs 15 months right merle 34lbs www. All breeds of Labrador Retrievers are known for being kind and gentle — and this trait runs especially strong with the chocolate-colored sweeties. While these dogs are very friendly to strangers, they have even more affection to give to their beloved families. Your Chocolate Lab puppy or adult will be happiest spending time with their favorite people. If you have young children, a lab is a great fit, as this breed is usually quite tolerant of the horseplay of small children who are still learning how to interact with pets. Just like many people, Chocolate Labs enjoy both downtime — especially if it involves being pampered by their family — and active high-energy fun. We recommend daily exercise, which can include anything from fetch, to tag, or even frisbee games. The average Chocolate Lab lifespan is between 9 and 11 years. The most common Chocolate Lab health problem is hip dysplasia, which occurs more commonly in older and overweight dogs. This is just one of the reasons to make exercise a common part of your time with a Chocolate Lab puppy or fully grown adult. Another problem that occurs in overweight labs is joint and movement issues. The other most common Chocolate Lab health problems are: Progressive Retinal Atrophy Cataracts Elbow Dysplasia As is the case with any dog, when you bring home a Chocolate Labrador, make sure that you have a good vet to handle routing vaccinations and check-ups as well as emergency health problems. Learn more about the Keystone Puppies Health Guarantee! Chocolate Lab Coat Care In general, Chocolate Lab coat care is easy compared to many other dog breeds which require weekly or daily work. Labrador Retrievers all have double coats, which includes an under layer of short hairs and a slightly longer top layer. This coat is useful for repelling water and keeping them cool in warmer temperatures — and warm in cooler ones. Their coat is also noted to be slightly dry and oily. Chocolate Lab coat care is fairly minimal and considered low maintenance. The coat should be brushed with a firm bristle brush 2 — 3 times per month to minimize shedding. In addition to that, baths are needed fairly infrequently. What is more crucial is ensuring that their toenails are well cared for throughout the year. Meet Chocolate Lab Puppies for Sale. Should a Lab Mix take after their Labrador Retriever parent, they will be a playful, energetic, and affectionate dog that loves their families. Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs that tend to have an extended puppyhood. They are also social, friendly, and tend to be patient and gentle with children. This makes them fantastic pets as they also tend to get along well with other dogs and even other pets, despite their retriever tendencies. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. You still want to ask questions about the other parent breed as they are bound to introduce some potential quirks of their own. Although Labs are happiest with room to run, they adapt well to apartments as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. They also do well in most climates, but do not like to spend long stretches of time alone. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? As with purebred dogs, health often depends on reputable breeding practices. Just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Labrador side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Labrador Mix include patellar luxation , hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts. The other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential conditions to this list. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Labrador Retrievers are highly trainable dogs that can be a good fit for owners of any experience level. First-time owners may have a challenge at first with their high energy and exuberance, but tend to be successful. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. If the other parent breed tends to be more challenging to train, then you will want to be prepared for that potential and be ready to enroll in puppy training classes if you need them. A Lab Mix can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should they inherit the Labrador Retriever coat, it will be short and will shed throughout the year with heavier shedding as the seasons change. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath keep a Lab coat healthy. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Because dental care is often overlooked, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth every day or using an enzyme toothpaste daily in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy working dogs that need plenty of exercise and a job to do to be happy. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you should expect a Labrador Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed sits in a lower activity range, you will still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog should they take after their Lab parent. Fully-grown Labrador Retrievers tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Labs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Featured Labrador Mix Article.