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The first vaccination for your Golden takes place between 6 to 8 weeks. Since everything is new to your pup, he might be timid and get easily scared. Golden puppies just left their source of security and are away from their littermates and mother for the first time. Bring your pup out to relieve him after every meal. Divide it into four small meals throughout the day. This is also the recommended age to start training. Housebreaking is especially important to avoid bad habits from developing. If you want him to be friendly to all, socialization at this age is also essential. This will help him grow familiar with strange sights, smells, and sounds. For the diet, stick to feeding him four small meals a day with the same amount mentioned for 7-week Goldens. After the vaccines, keep your Golden pup away from other pets for at least two weeks. Golden Retriever at 3 months This allows them to have full immunity, especially against the fatal parvovirus. They are becoming more curious, and you might have a problem with biting. Stay calm and teach him gently but firmly that he is not allowed to chew on you or anything else, except his chew toy. You can also acclimate him to grooming. Get him used to being combed and his paws handled. Introduce him to the blowdryer and praise him when he stays calm. You can start to be more serious about training. Spread 2 cups of kibble over the day, and cut one meal out by the end of the week. He should also be picking up basic commands. If your pup is quick to learn, kick it up a notch by teaching him a few tricks. Golden Retriever at 5 months Offer some chew toys that you can cool in the fridge to alleviate him discomfort. You may also start exercising him for 20 minutes a day, as this is the stage where he should show excitement for the outdoors. Swimming, fetch, and walking are great to start things off. Some Goldens are potty-trained around the 4-month mark, although accidents might still occur. He will have the body of an adult, but the legs and tail of a puppy. Golden Retriever at 6 months Also, his nose and ears will grow faster, so you end up with a goofy-looking pup. You need to be careful with him for the next six months because this is when they are most vulnerable to developing hip dysplasia. Avoid long walks, going down the stairs, and stopping suddenly while running. The pressure from those activities might cause joints to deform. Your Golden may also start to display signs of sexual maturity in the next few months, if not neutered or spayed. Some of them never grow out of it and will stay young at heart into their old age. To be sure he is free from hip dysplasia, have him checked by the vet when he is two years old. When do Golden Retrievers stop growing? Golden Retrievers grow the fastest between 3 to 6 months of age. Around the six-month mark, their growth starts to taper off. This will prevent him from reaching his full potential. If left untreated, it can cause lasting damage to their bones, muscles, immune system, skin, and digestive system. Being ill for an extended period might also affect his development. Your puppy may be stunted due to malnutrition. Dangers of stunted or accelerated growth Some people prefer bigger Goldens, but some like them small, like Mini Golden Retrievers. This might lead to under or over-feeding, neither of which is ideal. Accelerated growth can cause hip or elbow dysplasia. It can also be responsible for bone disease and arthritis. Stunted Golden puppies, whether by illness or under-feeding, are generally weaker, and make them susceptible to falling sick. What is the best age to spay or neuter your pup? You can spay Golden Retriever puppies as early as 8 weeks old, but any time before they reach sexual maturity is preferred, which is around one year old. This will prevent undesirable behaviors such as marking, territorial behavior, or a fixation with toys. All of which are hard to correct when they manifest. For breeds that are predisposed to hip dysplasia, vets recommend spaying around the 6-month mark. Will neutering or spaying your Golden pup affect his or her growth? Yes, fixing a Golden before they reach sexual maturity generally causes your dog to grow bigger. This is because sex hormones suppress growth hormones. Without growth inhibition, your Golden will continue to grow. Aside from joint problems, there are also a few issues connected to spaying or neutering. They can become more prone to some forms of cancer. Some dogs also experience a change in behavior after the operation. The lack of estrogen can make female dogs more aggressive. Male dogs may also experience an increase in fearfulness. Sexual maturity usually occurs in Golden around 8 to 12 months. This gives you ample time to decide whether to sterilize or not. How heavy is a newborn Golden Retriever puppy? But, puppies as small as 10 oz at birth have been recorded. They usually leave their mom at 10 lbs. Also, bigger litters generally have smaller puppies, but they should all catch up by their 8th week. How to identify an overweight Golden Retriever? Use your eyes and hands to assess if your Golden is overweight or not. A survey in showed that .While it might look cute or funny, overweight dogs actually have shorter lifespans. Being excessively chubby shaves off two years and causes health issues. Do Golden Retriever types have different growth rates? Show dogs are often heavier than working dogs. Aside from other factors we mentioned, a nutritious diet and an active lifestyle will help keep your Golden healthy and happy. Remember, their final size will vary from one another, depending on variation and pedigree. At what age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? As larger dogs, Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to reach their full weight. Most Golden Retrievers will be close to their adult height and weight around a year of age but may need one more year to fill out their chest fully. A six-month-old male Golden Retriever will weigh between 35 to 45 pounds, while their female counterpart will weigh around 30 to 35 pounds at the same age. As for their height, most Golden Retrievers will still need another three to six months to reach their adult height. At this age, they will likely be a few inches away from their adult height, which ranges from .Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on bonding with your pet, puppy-proofing your home, training, microchips, and more! How much bigger will my Golden Retriever get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much bigger your Golden Retriever will get. If they are less than a year old, they still need more time to reach their full adult size. Many Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to completely fill out, though their weight at one year old is usually close to their full adult weight. A puppy is rarely larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you a general idea of their maximum weight. If their paws still look large or oversized next to their body and legs, they are probably still filling out and have some growing left to do, as this is a classic sign of adolescence in canines. What is the size of a full-grown Golden Retriever? As adults, Golden Retrievers will appear overall symmetrical and have a powerful body hidden beneath beautiful, golden fur. Golden Retrievers are stunning, sunny dogs that easily steal our hearts. Unfortunately, as a purebred dog breed, they are more susceptible to genetic diseases, which can compromise their lifespan and quality of life. However, many genetic disorders can be treated or prevented with regular veterinary care. Remember that prevention is almost always easier and less expensive than treatment. Your veterinarian may recommend a large-breed growth food to your Golden Retriever puppy to support their growth rate which can help prevent or decrease the severity of hip dysplasia in adulthood. According to the Veterinary Centers of America , Golden Retrievers are also more prone to gaining excess weight. Golden Retrievers are also susceptible to various genetic health disorders, such as oral tumors and aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is most commonly found in large, purebred dogs, including Golden Retrievers, and occurs when the aortic valves to the heart narrow. Aortic stenosis causes the body to struggle to pump blood through the valve, creating additional stress on the body. If untreated, aortic stenosis can lead to muscle failure and even fatality. However, veterinarians can treat many genetic diseases like aortic stenosis and oral tumors through surgery and medication. Even with proper prevention and wellness care, necessary veterinary visits can be expensive, with many treatments costing thousands of dollars. Out of over 20, pet parents surveyed , only .The last thing you should be focused on when the worst happens is how to finance a needed surgery or treatment for your beloved pet. This is where pet insurance comes in. Just like people, dogs are living longer lives and will need additional veterinary care to maintain a happy quality of life. Let pet insurance help you with these costs should the worst happen to your dog. Wellness plans are also available as an add-on to help with the ongoing costs of regular veterinary care , like x-rays and exams. Act now and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your Golden Retriever is covered should anything happen. Compare top Golden Retriever pet insurance plans side-by-side with Pawlicy Advisor today! Key Takeaways On average, male Golden Retrievers weigh pounds and females weigh pounds. At full height, Goldens stand between .Although puppies groww extremely fast, the Golden Retriever breed can take as long as 2 years to reach full maturity. Owners should keep an eye on their Golden Retriever's diet because they are very prone to obesity. Pet insurance helps cover the cost of care necessary to give your Goldie a happy, healthy life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. At this stage, nipping bad behaviors in the bud is more important than imprinting positive ones. Instead, just redirect them to positive behavior and reward them accordingly. By this point, your puppy should have already been given their distemper and parvovirus vaccinations. By this point, they should be fully housetrained or close to it. Your dog will be likely to gnaw and bite on anything they can get their chompers on—including you. Stay calm and redirect their attention to appropriate objects like chew toys. Your Golden should be fully accustomed to their new kibble at this point, and you should feed them three to four times per day. A 3-month-old dog should also get a DHHP booster, which protects them from parvo, distemper, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. You can play with your pup as much as you like, but take care not to put too much stress on their joints. Avoid a bunch of running and jumping, especially on hard surfaces. Your dog can transition from four meals per day down to three at this point, but the meals should probably be larger. This can cause digestive issues until your dog gets accustomed to it, so be prepared to clean up a few messes. Training should continue, although your primary focus will likely be convincing your pup to chew on something besides your shoes. Your dog will need another DHPP booster at this point, as well as a rabies vaccination. Other optional vaccines include Bordetella, Lyme disease, coronavirus, and leptospirosis. This could cause a brief burst of intense biting and chewing, so power through it. Make sure your pup has plenty of chew toys available to them. Stairs in particular should be avoided. Your pup is likely to start asserting itself at this stage and may start to mature sexually if not spayed or neutered. There are no vaccinations required at this point. Everyone knows how much fun it is to raise teenagers, right? This can lead to undesirable behaviors like aggressiveness, increased tendency to roam, and destructiveness. As a result, you may think that your dog is too skinny, but resist the urge to increase their rations. While most breeds have a puppy coat that they eventually grow out of, Goldens do not. Instead, their puppy coat becomes their undercoat, so you may notice your dog becoming increasingly fuzzy. The teenage rebelliousness should be wearing off by this point, and your dog is ready to begin training in earnest. You should still be feeding them twice daily, and they should stay on puppy kibble for at least another 6 months. Goldens reach their full height between 9 and 12 months old. Females tend to get there faster, but males will be taller in the end. You may also need to cut back on the amount that you feed them. It depends on the individual dog, but females generally reach maturity first. Spaying or neutering your dog has its pros and cons. The pros are fairly obvious: less marking, reduced misbehavior, and zero chance of getting an unexpected litter of puppies. Spaying and neutering can also protect against certain cancers. You may want to wait until your dog is at least 12 months old before getting them fixed. This also leaves the window open longer in which they can suffer skeletal damage, though, so be careful about how active you allow them to be. However, stunted growth and growing too quickly can cause serious health problems, so you should check with your vet to make sure your dog is growing on schedule. Stunted growth is usually caused by malnourishment or a medical problem. You should have your pup tested for parasites like hookworm or ringworm, and consider switching them to a higher-quality, calorie-dense food. If left untreated, malnourishment can lead to weak bones, muscles, and immune system. As you might expect, growing too quickly is often caused by feeding your dog too much. American and British Goldens are similar. However, American Goldens tend to be less stocky and muscular, instead having a leaner appearance. They may weigh a bit less as well. They tend to be taller as well, often standing an inch or two higher than their counterparts. Conclusion Golden Retrievers make excellent pets, and we understand how hard it is to resist the temptation to bring a puppy home. If you do, though, you should understand what to expect from your new dog. Steady growth is what you want to see, without too many peaks or valleys. This sets your dog up for a long, healthy lifespan. Every dog develops at their own pace, so as long as you feed your pup an appropriate amount of high-quality puppy kibble and get them vaccinated regularly, you should be fine. See also:. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! By Tom Massey Mar 02, Adopting a golden retriever is one of the best decisions you can make. These loving dogs are constantly praised for their gentle and calm, yet playful nature, making them perfect dogs for all walks of life and types of families. So when you do finally bring your Golden Retriever puppy home, you want to do everything you can to give them a long and healthy life for years to come. This is a wide range, so keep in mind that the weight of your Retriever will vary depending on genetic factors and sex. For example, female Golden Retrievers will weigh closer to 55 pounds while Golden Retriever males are heavier and will weigh closer to 75 pounds. Females also typically reach their full size by their first birthday, while males may continue growing through their second year. You can usually tell the size males and females will be based on what their parents look like, which is why Snowy Pines encourages meeting the parents or browsing through their photos and biographies online. Then, calculate 1. What to Expect: This age is crucial for mother-puppy bonding since he will depend on his mother for food, cleaning, and socialization. Image Source Weeks months Golden Retriever Male Weight: Between 8 to 12 weeks, your male puppy will average between 10 to 22 pounds. Golden Retriever Female Weight: Although females will grow to be smaller than males, they are typically around the same weight at this age group. The puppies become very playful, curious, and discover their voices little by little. Introductory training like house training is essential. Socialization is also important, which is why Snowy Pines ensures that all puppies stay with their littermates until adoption. For female puppies, 6 months is a little over the halfway point to their full-size, and males are essentially smaller versions of their adult bodies. Remember, at this age, you can multiply by two to determine their adult weight! What to Expect: Socialization is still crucial at this age, and more intense training can also begin. The puppy should also be kept in happy and safe environments, as any exposure to something fearful at this age may impact him long-term. This is entirely normal: Think of your puppy as a teenager who is going through adolescence and waiting for the rest of his body to catch up. They may get territorial and challenge you and other pets for dominance. Most Golden Retrievers will be fully grown by 24 months old, although this varies. Golden Retriever Female Weight: In most cases, females are finished growing before 16 to 24 months. Whatever their nature is like at the to month mark is likely what it will be throughout their adult life. They are loyal, friendly, and calm, making them the perfect companion for small and large families alike. However, Goldens are susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases that are common in bigger breeds that are typically caused by overfeeding, stunted or accelerated growth, and genetic issues. One of the most common diseases that goldens experience is Osteochondritis dissecans OCD. OCD is a developmental disease that affects large-breed dogs because of the accelerated growth they experience. It is an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal cartilage development on the end of a bone in the joint. This can lead to joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia which commonly appears in the elbow, hip, and knee. Image Source The good news is that, although larger breeds like golden retrievers are prone to joint issues like this, you may be able to help prevent it through proper practice. OCD is a specific disease that is more common in dogs that receive too much energy and calcium in their diets. Other common factors are genetics, rapid growth, and hormonal factors. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, and all that extra weight can leave your puppy with skeletal abnormalities that put too much weight on joints. Another way to avoid accidentally stunted or accelerated growth is to ensure your golden retriever puppy is getting fed appropriately and receiving the right amount of calories. Image Source Months Between 2 and 4 months old, your puppy should eat 4 times per day with 2 ounces per meal. This will add up to 7 to 9 ounces per day, depending on how much he willingly eats. Keep him on puppy food through his first year before switching to young adult food. They must receive regular exercise every day. However, this depends on their age. As previously covered, the more your puppy grows, the more susceptible to common diseases like joint problems. Breeders with years of experience, like the team at Snowy Pines, work hard to keep pure bloodlines so that all of the parents and their litters are as healthy as they can be, which helps guarantee a lifetime full of happiness without any issue. Share on. Golden Retriever Male Puppy Growth Chart lb and kg Keep in mind that minor differences are not a cause for alarm: it is not compulsory for your pup to weigh the listed amount. However, if your puppy has a very low weight, you will know that you should check with your veterinarian. As a new owner of Golden Retriever Puppy, you will be surprised to know that handling of puppies can boost their growth. Not only does it promote proper weight gain, but it can also affect development in other areas. Introduction In Comparing the puppies who were handled with those who did not show that the puppies that were being held opened their eyes and ears and had their hair grow faster and they even had better motor development. You may want to know how your puppy compares to another Golden Retriever. Or are you worried that your dog growth is not on the right path? In studying Golden Retriever growth charts, it is clear that most pups gain weight between 5 and 10 percent per week. Keep in mind that a lot of factors can affect the growth rate of a puppy. One size doesn't fit all Not all puppies will follow the growth chart at an exact speed. There can be a lot of diverse reasons for this. The growth chart can alert you should there be significant differences. However, even good owners can have skinny dogs. The Golden Retriever growth charts can alert you to the common causes of slow growth. Occasionally it comes down to a change in the dog diet. Ensure your dog likes his food and that he eats frequently. Request your veterinarian to rule out worms or any other condition. In the meantime, rest assured knowing that most puppies do well when they are raised by a loving and caring owner who has a good relationship with a trusted veterinarian and spends a lot of pleasant time with the puppy. To ascertain if your puppy is large, small, or average-sized for his or her age, you will first find the correct chart based on the sex of your puppy. Scroll down until you locate your puppy's age on the left side of the table. Then compare your dog weight with each column subsequently to that age. To predict the future heights and weights of your dog growth for a period of time. If your dog weight is always in the average range, you can scroll down the average column to estimate how large your puppies maybe as an adult. The same applies to other columns too. Remember, this is just an estimate. Not all goldens will grow to the same size and at the same rate. The size of the parents is always a good indicator of whether your dog will be above or below average in size. However, while natural variation is nothing to worry about, stunted growth or accelerated growth is. If a golden retriever puppy is malnourished or suffering from an unidentified medical condition usually hookworm or ringworm , their natural growth can be compromised. This can lead to serious medical issues in later life, as it can leave them with weak bones, weak muscles, and a weak immune system, as well as a tendency to develop both skin and digestive issues. Growing too quickly, largely as a result of overfeeding, can also pose a major health risk. As well as leading to obesity, carrying too much weight at the development stage can leave your golden retriever with skeletal abnormalities, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis , a condition that affects the joints. With these tips, you will help fight off those genetic health disorders as well. Appropriate Diet Start off by speaking to your vet for guidance on foods to use for the different life stages. At the very least, you will need a nutritionally complete and balanced diet made for large breeds. Good food will help your pup gain the right amount of weight, look healthy, and have enough energy. Proper exercise will build their muscle and bone strength, prevent obesity, increase their agility, stop destructive behavior, and help them release pent-up energy. Vaccines will help to prevent infectious diseases such as hepatitis, parvovirus, rabies, and distemper, all of which could affect the growth and overall health of your puppy. This will be a plus for her overall health. It would also be great to have your vet do routine health checks on your puppy. This way, no issue will go unnoticed, and treatment can be administered early for better outcomes. A shiny coat and bright eyes are a plus. Alternatively, if you notice rapid weight gain or loss, unusual bumps and lumps on their skin, digestive issues, changes in behavior, and visual or hearing complications, take your dog to the vet right away. Compared to other breeds, Golden Retrievers, especially females, grow pretty quickly. Males could take up to 18 months to achieve the same milestone. However, both will still need an additional year to fill out the chest fully. Adult height, on the other hand, will be reached between 9 and 12 months. As always, females will get there a bit faster than males. You can get a rough idea of how big your golden retriever will grow by first studying the parents. Take note of the size that both of the parents and previous litters have had. Rarely will a puppy grow larger than its parents, so the measurements you gather will give you a better idea of how tall and heavy your golden retriever will get. Full-grown, healthy, male golden retrievers have a height of between 22 and 24 inches while the females are 20 to 22 inches tall. In terms of height and body structure, the Canadian golden retriever has no rival. Spaying and neutering specifically affect the development of bones and also ligament and tendon strength. In fact, some studies report higher incidences of cranial cruciate ligament tears and hip dysplasia among golden retrievers that went through this procedure. Therefore, consult your vet when deciding if and when to spay or neuter your dog. The weight of your golden retriever is a good indication of their healthy development. While male and female Goldens will have different weights and show goldens tend to be heavier than working goldens, overall, they should be hitting the weights listed in the growth and weight chart above. If your dog is not hitting these milestones, consult your vet about malnutrition, possibly caused by worms, and excessive golden retriever growth, which is often the result of overfeeding. If you feel like your pooch is missing any of them, again, it is time to consult your vet. In general, good nutrition and a loving home is a recipe for a happy and healthy golden retriever. If you want to know more about your golden retriever, you can do a DNA test, too. You can choose one of the tests below:.

Lifespan Sociability Basset Hounds flow in popularity, which increases the average price range. When looking for a Boxset, you can always ask your local shelter or dog rescue for Boxer or Basset Hound mixes. When you bring a Boxset home, expect to have a loyal dog by your side. They create strong bonds with their families, especially with children. They have a stubborn side to their temperament which might be a challenge when training your dog. Once you get to know your dog and have regular training sessions, they should grow up to be obedient and calm. Boxsets are heavy dogs. Though they have the dimensions of a small dog breed, their mass is that of a medium or large breed dog. Boxsets have powerful noses. Boxsets love to eat. Since they weigh as big as medium-large sized dogs, Boxsets also eat like them. Boxers are a wild mix of goofiness and seriousness, often regarded as a friendly watchdog. Their hyperactivity can last beyond their puppy years, but their strong sense of loyalty is worth dealing with their rambunctiousness. Though not known for being intelligent, Boxers are smarter than they let on and will test their place in the household. Basset Hounds love nothing more than to snuggle up on the couch with their favorite people, but these scent dogs have a sensitive side that can bring out their stubborn nature. The severity of the stubbornness will vary, especially if your Boxset has more of a Boxer-like personality. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Boxsets are excellent family dogs, especially with active families with children. These dogs may look small, but their heavyset bodies can handle hours of play with kids. If properly introduced, Boxsets can live peacefully cats. Small animals may be too tempting due to the strong scent drive of the Basset Hound, so you may want to think twice before getting this hybrid if you have a lot of small animals in your house. We recommend asking your veterinarian for food and diet advice to prevent obesity and other food-related issues. Boxsets need a few long walks at a bare minimum, as well as time off-leash in a fenced-in area to romp around. Boxsets can do well in obedience if given the chance and ability to succeed. Group puppy classes are a great place to start, but we recommend taking additional training classes to teach your Boxset far more than the basics. With consistent training and a positive attitude, your Boxset could do well in obedience competitions. Since Boxers tend to shed more during the colder seasons, your Boxset may inherit this as well. Weekly brushing of your Boxset will help reduce shedding, as well as a bath once in a while to keep the coat clean and healthy. We recommend a rubber curry comb to get rid of loose fur and debris, while also massaging the coat and skin. Mixed Breeds By Kate Brunotts 14 min read June 23, 2 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Are you searching for a best basset buddy? Purebred basset hounds are certainly amazing dogs, but you might want to consider a basset hound mix too! Getting to Know the Basset Hound There are few dogs more charming than the darling basset hound. Physically, the iconic basset hound is famous for his long, velvety ears. But while these ears are certainly adorable, they will require a bit of care. These stout furry friends are usually considered medium-sized dogs, as they weigh between 50 and 60 pounds. Basset hounds do enjoy fairly long life spans, and most live between 10 and 12 years. However, many owners are happy to cut their losses for the unbeatable sweetness of these dignified dogs. Thankfully, the charming Bagel Hound makes up for it in full with endless affection and an unwaveringly friendly disposition. This marvelous mutt is incredibly adaptable so long as he gets plenty of playtime and treats. Just be careful not to overfeed this unique canine cross — both parent pups are prone to obesity. These dashing dogs are confident and curious, so they make amazing adventure buddies The Basset Shepherd will show your family plenty of affection but may need some time to warm up around strangers. Ba Shar pups are sometimes surprisingly smart and love pooch parents who can challenge them with puzzle toys and plenty of activities. Just understand that these pups are somewhat independent, so they can be a bit challenging to train. These intelligent family pups are eager to learn tricks and will keep you busy with their adventurous spirits. These unique canine crosses are sure to turn heads given the unique combination of their small stature and often merle-colored coats. This Hush Basset mix is as sweet as can be and is sure to bless you with plenty of puppy kisses. The affectionate cross loves spending time with family members and does well with other furry friends. The Bully Basset is an amazingly sweet companion who tends to make friends everywhere he goes. These cuties love to play and do well in just about any home, so long as there is usually someone around to spend time with. Bassmatian Basset Hound x Dalmatian A post shared by Flack flackspottydog This spotted sweetheart has an endless thirst for adventure and pairs well with an active pet parent. These charming dogs love spending time with their family members and typically get along great with kids. As long as these cute crosses get plenty of exercise, they are fairly low-maintenance dogs. Training can be challenging, but you can win over these curious canines with a bit of hard work and tasty treats. As a true family dog, Rottie Bassets love to spend time with children and adults alike. These strong doggos love to spend time outdoors and appreciate a fenced-in space to roam around in. Bassugs are super adaptable and can make great apartment dogs if need be. These pups have plenty of energy, so they need to get a ton of exercise and playtime to keep their tails wagging. These pups are, however, best suited for single-dog families, as they can have problems getting along with other doggos at times. But although these dogs are sweet, they need pooch parents who can provide them with plenty of guidance so that they can grow into their best selves. The Basschshund can be somewhat aloof towards strangers, but he shines in front of family and familiar friends. These fine family dogs love spending time with their humans, and get along well with other pets in the home. Boxsets are sure to leave a pawprint on your heart with their sweet and silly dispositions. Bowser Basset Hound x Schnauzer.

As a faithful and even-tempered dog, it does well with all the family members and children. It also mingles freely with other smaller household pets and may guard them when their owner is away. When left alone, it keeps itself engaged in activities, and it does not show any signs of separation anxiety. Known for its attentive and alert disposition, the Dalmador can warn its owner of an impending threat. Care Exercise The Dalmador is a lively dog and would enjoy going out for daily walks. Long brisk walks and running sessions will not only help in keeping it stress-free but also channelize its energy. Encourage your pet to play and run around in a fenced yard or park. Grooming Since it is a frequent shedder, regular brushing is needed to remove the dead hairs. Also, occasional bathing is advisable to keep its coat odor-free and shiny. Health Problems The Lab-Dalmatian mix is a healthy breed with no specific health disorders reported so far. However, it can be vulnerable to some health conditions including hip dysplasia, entropion, allergic infections, urinary stone formation, and deafness that are common in its parent breeds. Training When it comes to training this intelligent breed, the owners need to be more patient and persistent in their approach since results come steadily. Socialization and obedience training will help the puppies learn the basic etiquettes of a family pet. If you are not an expert hand in training a dog, you can seek professional help. Feeding You should offer your Delmador dog a highly nutritious, balanced diet containing enough protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Quality commercial dog foods can be given in amounts of cups a day. You can include dry kibble in its diet, but be sure to provide sufficient quantity of water. Interesting Facts The Dalmadors are known for their herding, sighting, racing abilities, and can be used for military works. These dogs are good diggers and are often seen digging holes in the yard. Sensitive, sweet, and enthusiastic, they make perfect friends for adventuring and lounging alike. And they are especially beautiful dogs, too. Dalmador puppies are likely to have the famous Dalmatian spots, whether in stark contrast to their base color or just charmingly freckled. The color variations from the Labrador Retriever mixed with those eye-catching spots make for unique and striking coats. A moderately long-lived canine, chances are you will be welcoming a new Dalmador into your life for well over a decade. No one can predict the ups and downs of life, so you should be prepared to care for your dog in times of both health and hardship. While Dalmatians are rather famous in pop culture for inbreeding, many breeders are very careful with their canine lineages. Dalmatians Are a Jack-of-All-Trades Dog The Dalmatian breed has had a vast variety of jobs: sporting dog, trail hound, bird dog, retriever, boar hunter, coach dog, firehouse mascot, guard dog, and even stage performer and circus star! Their intelligence, affinity for working with horses and other animals, and their striking spots make for a versatile and eager dog. He killed the cat of Governor Gifford Pinchot and spent the rest of his 10 years of life behind bars. In his time there, Pep became good friends with the warden and was an unofficial prison mascot of sorts. For example, they have been clocked at reaching speeds of 12 mph in about 3 seconds! These dogs love walks, runs, hikes, swims, fetch, and just about any exercise imaginable — as long as they have a friend to share it with. Dalmadors are sensitive and protective but balanced out by an easygoing and exuberantly friendly nature. Highly energetic, they relish the opportunity to participate in outdoor activities with their family. Whether swimming, running, biking, or hiking, these dogs will want to be included. They love children and can make a great playmate for older kids. Dalmadors are bright as well, which means they can and will get bored if left alone or cooped up for long periods of time. Giving your dog multiple opportunities throughout a day to exercise and play outside is highly recommended. And, if you must leave your dog alone, give them plenty of toys to occupy their teeth. Many Dalmadors enjoy chewing and providing sturdy chew toys will keep you from having to replace your furniture and shoes regularly! Are These Dogs Good for Families? Dalmadors have an easygoing friendliness to them and are known for their gentleness with children of all ages. If you socialize your dogs and kids with each other early, they can easily become best friends. Active children will especially get along with these eager and athletic dogs. Biking, running, exploring — let both child and dog channel their endless energy into outdoor activities and it will be a race to see who can tire the other out first! They are friendly, mellow, and tolerant when dealing with most everyone and make very little distinction between species. But if you socialize them early and give your dog plenty of exercise and playtime, they should all get along swell! Be sure to check in with your vet about appropriate portion sizes and weight gain so that your Dalmador will not have to lug around any unnecessary pounds. And as a juvenile dog, they may need even more! A Dalmador is best kept in a home with a fenced-in yard or larger surrounding property. They need an owner who can keep up with their energy needs or, as a breed that is somewhat prone to obesity, their health may suffer. They are high energy and may be distractible at times, especially in their youth. Though very quick to learn, they will need firm, positive training, and plenty of patience. As with any dog, ingraining a strong, reliable recall and a few basic obedience commands is highly encouraged. Obedience training is essential for Dalmador puppies as their exaggerated friendliness may not always be well-received — especially once they reach full size! Ears need to be cleaned of any built-up wax and dirt to avoid infections. Though the nails may be worn down naturally, some still need the occasional trim to prevent cracking. And a regular teeth cleaning will provide your dog with fresher breath, and a lower chance of gum disease. And, like all hybrid dog breeds, the Dalmador is generally healthier and less likely to inherit genetic disorders than either of its parent breeds. Dalmatians are often cited during discussions of poor health from inbreeding. But in the last 30 years, many breeders have taken steps to ensure the health of new generations. Finding a healthy Dalmador should not pose a problem. All that being said, there are a few health conditions to be aware of for this breed. Minor Conditions. If they take after their Dalmatian parent, a Dalmatian Mix is likely to be a loyal, athletic, and energetic dog that loves their families. Dalmatians tend to be loving and loyal dogs that get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They tend to be loving and affectionate with their families and more reserved around strangers. Should a Dalmatian Mix take after their Dalmatian parent, you should be able to expect a similar temperament from them. You will still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed so you know what other traits could be in the mix. You can also meet the mother in-person to see the temperament she has and the manners she is modeling for her puppies. They do much better in homes with yards where they can run. They are sensitive to heat and may get cold easier in the winter than breeds with a thick coat. This makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. If the other parent breed is similar, then you should be able to expect the same level of adaptability from a Dalmatian Mix. But, you still want to talk to the breeder about them as the other parent breed could introduce other quirks that could affect adaptability. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds. However, they could inherit any combination of them or all of them from one or both parents. From the Dalmatian side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Dalmatian Mix include kidney stones, deafness, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Dalmatians are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. Generally, they are a good fit for dog owners of all experience levels. But, their high energy and tendency to get bored can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle alone. Because of this, puppy training classes are recommended. They could have traits that could make a Dalmatian Mix easier or more difficult to train. You will want to be prepared for the possibility of needing training classes either way. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat that is similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both of them. Should they inherit the Dalmation coat, it will shed a little year-round, require weekly brushing, and need only a bath occasionally. It all depends on how quickly their nails grow. Because gum disease often leads to other health issues and is such a common problem for dogs, practicing good dental care for dogs throughout their lives is essential. A Dalmatian is a high-energy dog breed. They require daily walks plus time to run and other activities to stay happy and healthy. If the other parent is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect a Dalmatian Mix to be the same. Even if the other parent breed has a lower energy level, you will need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog with a Dalmatian Mix. Dalmatians are usually inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed could affect this, so you need to ask the breeder about them and pay close attention to which breed is the mother. A Dalmatian generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Dalmatian Mix. Featured Dalmatian Mix Article.

Things to do in Arkansas with your English Bulldog Arkansas is a beautiful state with a lot to offer, both for humans and their furry friends. Hiking the Trails Arkansas has a number of great hiking trails that are perfect for English bulldogs. Go Camping There are many campgrounds in Arkansas that allow dogs. Go Fishing Arkansas is a great place to fish, and there are many places where you can take your English bulldog fishing. Go Boating or Swimming Arkansas has a number of lakes and rivers that are perfect for boating or swimming with your English bulldog. Visit a Dog Park There are many dog parks in Arkansas where your English bulldog can run and play off-leash. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Arkansas has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Arkansas. With its mild climate, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses, Arkansas is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Arkansas? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. The primary distinction between French and English bulldogs comes down to size. English bulldogs tend to be short and stout, standing around inches tall and weighing around 50 pounds at most. French bulldogs also called Frenchies are shorter than English bulldogs — around inches tall and generally weigh under 30 pounds. Both French and English bulldogs have those loveable short noses, tiny legs, and that coveted wrinkly skin that makes them distinct from other more traditional breeds. Those looking for smaller dogs might just find the perfect match in either a Frenchie or an English bulldog. We strive to put health and temperament first. All our dogs are DNA health tested to ensure sound and healthy puppies. Most of our dogs descend from multiple generations of our own puppies. In , we were awarded 17 best French bulldog breeder of America by happydoggo. We offer all colors, patterns -- even fluffy Frenchies. We also offer stud services as well. We have a long track record of success and an endless list of happy clients. Powered by GoDaddy This website uses cookies. We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data. You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting an English Bulldog, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to English Bulldogs". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Bulldog from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Bulldog puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many English Bulldogs young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Do you want to know how to fatten up a German Shepherd to make them gain weight in a healthy way? Are you worried that your German Shepherd is thin and underweight and want to know how to bulk up a German Shepherd for safe weight-gain? Is Your German Shepherd Underweight? Your dog should have a trim, athletic appearance. They are large breed dogs with fast metabolisms that are active and energetic in their daily lives. Fit German Shepherds may at first seem slightly underweight. They are lean, athletic dogs with a strong, firm figure and you should avoid learning how to make a German Shepherd fat. Instead, you want to bulk-up your German Shepherd to make them fit. But if you see their ribs protruding or their hip bones raised and easily felt when petting, this is a sign of being underweight. You should first check with your vet for possible medical issues. You want to know if they are gaining weight, losing weight, or remaining the same. This helps you to decide if your weight gain plan is working — or if you need to adjust your plan. If your dog continues losing weight or if you see a lack of progress, take your dog back to your veterinarian. You need to see this as a long term plan and not an overnight fix to get your German Shepherd fat and by fat, I mean bulk-up not obese or overweight. Look for foods that have a higher percentage of fat and protein than your current food. Adults and seniors should eat about 20 to 25 percent of their daily calories from protein and 25 to 50 percent from fats. The rest of the calories should come from carbohydrates. This is anywhere from 8 months to a year or longer. Change to Puppy or High-Performance Food If you have an adult dog, switch them to a puppy or high-performance dog food to help them gain healthy weight. Both puppy and high-performance also known as a working breed food is higher in calories to support complex energy needs and sustained growth. Puppy foods generally have added nutrients to support puppy growth which can help your underweight German Shepherd gain weight and fatten up in a controlled manner — which is what you want. Mixing regular adult and puppy or high-performance food helps your GSD gain weight and fat in a regulated manner. For More Calories Feed Dry Kibble Dry kibble dog food generally has more calories if you want your dog to gain weight. Dry kibble is denser and contains more calories than wet food because the moisture has been removed from dry foods. Therefore, dry food has up to 4 times the number of calories as the same amount of wet food — dry kibble is a weight gaining powerhouse! If your dog is currently eating wet meals, then try mixing in some dry food with their wet food to help stimulate weight gain. Wet foods may taste better to your dog, so mixing in the dry foods with the wet still encourages your dog to eat in order to not lose more weight. Look for dry food with higher protein and fats to encourage weight gain in a healthy manner and go with one of the foods mentioned above for fat gain that is healthy. Begin by feeding your dog a bit more of their current food spread out over one more meal per day. Add a quarter to half a cup of extra food per meal. You can also take their regular feeding and the additional food and increase their feeding schedule to four times per day, splitting the food equally at each feeding. If your German Shepherd is picky about when they eat, then it may help to leave food out for them all the time. This is called free feeding. Dogs who can free feed tend to gain more weight than dogs fed on a schedule. Free feeding allows your dog the chance to eat a little whenever they are hungry or bored. This type of feeding may help them eat more overall. But only use free feeding with dry food, since wet foods spoil when left out for more than a couple hours. They may follow you around rather than eat when you offer their food bowl — this may be especially true of Shepherds since they tend to get fixated on their caretaker. But, just keeping your dog company while they eat may stimulate their appetite. Find a comfortable spot to sit and wait on your dog while they eat. Bring a book or do a quiet activity while they eat close to you. Simply sit with them and enjoy your time together while they eat. Keep the treats handy and offer them to help get extra calories into your dog. Adding these foods into their regular kibble may also entice them to eat more of their dry dog food, which can help an underweight puppy or adult. They also add extra calories which are healthy and nutritious. To get your dog more interested in their food, try sprinkling on a topping to their usual meals. You can even buy healthy toppers that are easy to add. Seniors, adults, and puppies all have various nutritional concerns. Most commercial and pre-made dog foods specify their intended age range on the packaging and state what groups the food is aimed at feeding. Underfeeding a German Shepherd puts your dog at a serious health risk. You need to make sure they get enough food for their age and energy needs. Puppies generally eat almost double the number of calories an adult dog needs, so be sure to check out this post on what amount to feed a German Shepherd puppy to keep them healthy. While a senior GSD may eat significantly fewer calories, if they are losing weight or underweight and a vet has been consulted, they may need extra feedings or food to help them gain the weight back. German Shepherds thrive on consistent physical activity. Walking and swimming are activities that build muscle and are lower impact and less intense on their joints and bones. They can be done every day to keep your dog active and help them to maintain their muscle mass. But these two exercises can be performed at a lower intensity so that even older dogs and puppies can enjoy their benefits make sure your puppy can swim first. Keeping muscle mass is important to prevent wasting and help maintain their health and mobility, as well as their athletic appearance. Try walking up hills to improve muscle growth or a gentle game of tug using a spring pole in which your dog can start and stop on their own. Some of the herbs used to increase human appetite are also safe for use in dogs. Dandelion is available in this for-1 multivitamin , along with other herbal supplements to make your GSD gain weight. B vitamins are natural appetite stimulants and are readily available over the counter and online. Visit Your Vet Regularly Always see your vet regularly. Regular vet appointments are especially important for your underweight German Shepherd. Your vet will use your notes to help make medical adjustments, as necessary, and to give you the right tips and advice. Helping Your German Shepherd Gain Weight Knowing how to fatten up a German Shepherd can help you and your dog achieve their ideal weight and maintain this healthy condition. There are many reasons why your dog or puppy may not be gaining weight. But there are also ways to help your dog at home to become healthier and have more energy. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. How about some details regarding their feeding habits, behavior, medical needs, grooming regimen, and exercise requirements? In this section, you will find everything you need to know to keep them healthy and assist with things such as toilet training and teething. She will discipline them and make sure they learn to be independent. They then begin to go to the toilet independently and venture away from mom. At week 8, they play, can be housebroken, and bark when startled. The famous GSD ears will start to stand up, and you can begin leash and crate training. They must be handled and groomed and realize that human commands and dominance are the norm. During this time, the mother will nurse the pups until they are old enough to begin eating puppy mush , which is softened kibble. Allow puppies to eat as much as they like at each meal. At 6—8 weeks, their first shot from the vet is due. Smith, Shutterstock 12 weeks is a turning point for your pup. Their coordination will come on in bounds, as will their learning and social skills. They will be eager to learn but easily distracted, so have plenty of patience. If you become angry, it will stunt development if they become fearful of you. Your pup is officially into the juvenile period now. All of his puppy teeth should be developed by now and are normally very sharp. So, beware of your fingers when playing. At 12 weeks of age, puppies can start to eat three to four set meals a day with measured amounts. Purpose-made dog-approved chew toys are best, not teddy bears or old shoes. As they grow through this period between three and six months, GSD puppies are more juvenile than babies. They will be more boisterous and energetic. But on the plus side will feed easily, be more friendly with animals and people alike, and more than likely be housetrained if you have managed them correctly. They will be stubborn at this age when training and could ignore you, or not come when called. The best approach is to ignore any sassy attitude and only praise and fuss when back to being obedient. His internal organs and systems are fully developed and functioning as they should, while the skeleton is still growing. His full set of adult teeth should be present and correct. Your GSD is now becoming independent and will want to roam different areas and interact with their world on many more levels. Be aware that they could weigh 50 lbs at 6 months, so caution is needed with control and safety as they explore. He may also seemingly forget commands that he has been taught. It is best to ignore, not mollycoddle, any fearful reactions to new things to not reinforce the negative behaviors. By 6 months of age, you can reduce the feedings to three per day, now paying attention to the total calories consumed. Between the ages of 4—6 months, he will shed his puppy coat too. He might still be a bit goofy, gangly, and stubborn when it comes to training. German Shepherd females are reaching sexual maturity at this age. They may have their first estrus heat period. So, be mindful of letting them off the lead during this time if other dogs are around. At 9 months, your GSD can be tested for heartworm and treated if needs be. Speak with your vet about this for more detail. You can add small amounts of solid adult formula into the puppy food to get him used to the texture. Making it the optimal time to stimulate them as much as you can with obedience training and work activities. Your GSD should be comfortable in all situations, and with all types of company as their bond with humans should be well established. Their unique personality and quirks should be apparent and set them apart as your dog. They will have developed vocal and body language traits that you recognize and use for their needs. If male, he will be reaching sexual maturity and cocking his leg when urinating. He might also be looking to challenge dogs and humans for the title of pack leader. The key to cementing all your hard work so far is to be consistently firm with any boundaries he tries to push. By 12 months, they should be on adult formula only. German Shepherds stop growing between 2 and 3 years. This is when they fill out too. It starts to slow at around the age of 1, but he will continue to grow until he reaches maturity. During this time, they are considered to be adolescents. This is the same for their mental maturity too. This is the same for all German Shepherd types. Females tend to mature faster, both physically and mentally, than male German Shepherds. There are different stages within this time frame before maturity. And these are the neonatal stage 1—2 weeks , the transitional stage 2—4 weeks , the socialization stage 4 weeks to 3 months , the juvenile stage 3—6 months , and the adolescent stage 6 months to 2 years. Research has shown that neutering dogs can affect their growth. But how exactly? But early indications show that early neutering can increase the length of time that the bone grows. Meaning potentially taller dogs. But this also poses questions about whether this affects the joint alignment and whether it can cause any problems. And for the German Shepherd breed and his heightened propensity for hip dysplasia, this is a concern to be aware of. But waiting for full skeletal maturity also poses risks. Because neutering for females can reduce mammary cancer. If spayed before her first heat, it can eliminate the chances of this type of cancer altogether. As they will be able to offer you tailored advice for your German Shepherd. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth The dangers of growing too fast can affect their skeletal development. Conditions caused by growing too quickly are joint dysplasia and osteochondrosis. By feeding him a kibble that is designed for large-breed puppies will help control the rate at which his bones grow. This is because they have the optimum ratio of calcium and phosphorus levels in the food. So, always feed him large-breed puppy food during his developmental stage. This is most common in German Shepherds, but also in some Labrador Retrievers. It is an inherited disorder of growth hormone deficiency, and it will make the affected pooch always appear puppy-like. Growth Distinctions of Different German Shepherds. Tweet How big will my German Shepherd get? Along with hundreds of submissions from others lucky enough to be owned by a GSD. What the heck is FCI? Keep in mind that dog growth can be affected by genetics and environment, so take that into consideration when comparing your pup to the data in the German Shepherd growth chart. What is the normal size of a German Shepherd puppy? A German Shepherd dam will normally whelp give birth to between six and eight puppies. Puppy Growth Chart A healthy large breed puppy will normally double her birth weight during the first week. And moderates to an ultimate weight of around 70 times the puppy's birth weight. Check the puppy growth chart for an explanation of the different puppy development stages and puppy growth rate. German Shepherds normally reach physical maturity at months. Curiously, some Eastern European lines mature more slowly and do not reach full maturity until 36 months of age. Their growth rate slows noticeably at 6 months and continues minimally after .Puppy to adult in 40 seconds Here is a great time lapse video that shows GSD Dunder's growth from 8 weeks to 1 year. Standard, MO. If you have any doubt that your puppy is not changing according to the above German Shepherd growth chart, the best thing to do would be to contact your trusted vet. If you are providing adequate exercise and quality dog food , your German Shepherd's dog growth should be normal and she will have no trouble reaching her full potential. Not sure if you're feeding your GSD enough? Check out this breed specific dog food calculator to make sure. Is your GSD growing by the numbers? How is your pup progressing? Enter The Title of Your puppy growth story ex. Just type! Your story will appear on a Web page exactly the way you enter it here. You can wrap a word in square brackets to make it appear bold. For example [my story] would show as my story on the Web page containing your story. TIP: Since most people scan Web pages, include your best thoughts in your first paragraph. Show off your puppy! Click the button and find it on your computer. Then select it. Note: Submissions without at least one picture, will likely not be published. Your Name. What is a healthy weight for your dog? Your tiny, cute German Shepherd puppy will likely grow into a medium-sized or large dog. Females will probably weigh in on the medium side, while males can get pretty big. GSD puppies experience a phenomenal rate of growth, especially before six months, so be ready. Just remember that dogs as big as male German Shepherds are at risk for joint problems because they grow so quickly, and overfeeding them can exacerbate those problems as they get older. Factors Effecting German Shepherd Size German Shepherd size is dependent on age, but there are many other factors too. Female Shepherds are smaller and lighter than males. How your dog is fed and exercised will play a part. In this article we will look at the height and weight of GSDs at different stages of their development. And at what you might expect your cute German Shepherd puppy to measure and weigh when they are a full grown German Shepherd Dog. German Shepherds are the third most popular dog in the USA right now, having been recently nudged down a place by the French Bulldog. The breed belongs to the Pastoral group of dogs traditionally used as herding dogs. Some shepherd breeds were also used to guard livestock. German Shepherd Dog size is linked to this important role. The German Shepherd temperament is also tied in with this purpose and has made them uniquely suited to work as a service dog. With the right training, German Shepherd dogs also make excellent family pets. Working German Shepherd Size Because of their dual purpose as both herding and guard dogs, they are one of the larger shepherd dog breeds. He also turned to refining them into good police and guard dogs, creating a very versatile breed still in demand as herding became less common. German dog breeds became unpopular during the second world war and lovers of the breed began referring to them as the Alsatian dog, to protect their dogs from anti-German sentiment. They are easily trained, so they make good show and work dogs. Specifically with weight and growth rate. Being overweight can be harmful to German Shepherd health, just as it can to other breeds. Black German Shepherd puppies weigh the same as pups of other colors Weight issues in adult dogs is not the only area of concern, GSDs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which has been linked in some cases to overly rapid growth in puppies. They also suffer fromosteochondritis dissecans, disorders of the pancreas, panosteitis causing lameness, eye and ear issues, and allergies. And are vulnerable to bloat. In addition, some GSDs have deeply sloping backs and angulation in the legs that may be causing health issues. German Shepherd Puppy Size An average weight of German Shepherd puppies, according to a giant census study of dogs in Italy, is about grams or 1. A baby German Shepherd can range from 0. By about a week of age, they will weigh 1. This is one of the reasons why large breed-specific dog foods exist: to control the growth of these dogs in a way that will maximize their health and minimize joint problems. But up to 3 or 4lbs either side of that is normal. At this age most puppies are settled in with their new families and are on three meals a day. At this age pups can look quite gawky and skinny. Growth rate starts to really slow down now and many dogs will look a lot less puppyish than they did a month ago 9 month old German Shepherd puppy By nine months, your Shepherd will weigh between .At that point, the dog is about 90 percent of his or her adult weight. But in the coming months your pup will fill out, look less gawky, and may carry on gaining weight for another months. Bear in mind that this should be muscle gain, not fat, so keep an eye on that waistline! German Shepherd puppies generally stop growing significantly in height by nine months for males, eight months for females. Males may get an extra inch by 15 months and females slightly less than that by months. They reach their adult weight at 36 months. GSDs, like many larger breeds, are considered fully grown by about 18 months, when they have reached 98 percent of their growth. A golden shepherd golden retriever shepherd mix may be very similar but a shepherd mix dog where one parent is much smaller, will not. The answer is no, not really, though it is possible to harm your dog by overfeeding either as a puppy or an adult. German Shepherd dogs will no longer grow in height after 36 months of age, or three years. Dog individuals vary, just like human individuals do. You can ask your vet for a weigh in and a check up to discuss any concerns Average German Shepherd Height On average, male German shepherds reach a larger size when adult than females. So your girl German Shepherd is likely to be a little smaller than her brothers when she is full grown. The German Shepherd breed standard specifies that a good height for adult male German Shepherds is inches at the withers. For females, a size of inches at the withers is about right. How tall is a German Shepherd — length vs height These dogs are longer than they are tall. Fully grown male German Shepherd size is usually between inches tall and lbs. And adult female German Shepherd size is typically within inches tall and lb. However, you can expect your male GSD to weight about 80 lbs by 18 months of age, and 84 lbs by 36 months of age. Female German Shepherd weight is going to be less than male, the average weight at 18 months of age is about 62 lbs. But a good weight for females can like anywhere from lbs, and a good weight for males will be anywhere from lbs, depending on individual factors. Shepherds are often not as greedy as some other popular dog breeds, but obesity can still be a problem in this breed. Remember that exercise or lack of it is rarely at the heart of excessive weight issues in dogs. The problem is almost always too much food. Red German Shepherd Some slight weight loss may occur naturally in an old german shepherd. Older dogs may lose their sense of taste or smell and have less of an appetite than they did when young. When your German Shepherd is the ideal weight, you can feel their ribs, although they are not easily seen, and they are not covered in a layer of fat. There should be a defined waistline when your dog is viewed from above and a noticeable tummy tuck when they are viewed from the side. Underweight German Shepherds While German Shepherds are growing, they will be thinner and look gangly until they fill out in adulthood. It is sometimes recommended to keep your growing German Shepherd marginally underweight but not unhealthily thin while their joints grow and strengthen. Purina defines two levels of underweight: thin and slightly underweight. Thin: Ribs, hips, and spine are easily felt, and there is no fat covering the sides and back. There is noticeable muscle loss around shoulders and thighs, an overly pronounced waistline from the top view, and an overly pronounced tummy tuck from the side view. Slightly underweight: Ribs can be easily felt, hips and spine may be slightly visible if your German Shepherd has shorter hair, but there is no fat covering. There is an obvious waistline from above and a marked tummy tuck from the side. If your German Shepherd is underweight or thin, speak to your veterinarian. It could be that they are just growing quickly, often becoming lightly underweight after a growth spurt and then putting weight on until the next growth spurt. You may just need to change their food or feed them larger and more frequent meals. However, their low weight may indicate parasites or another underlying medical condition. Elderly German Shepherds can struggle with being underweight. This is why senior dog foods typically have a higher calorie count. Overweight German Shepherds It is important to prevent your German Shepherd from becoming overweight while they are growing. Extra weight on developing joints and muscles can cause problems. German Shepherds can also suffer from hip dysplasia, which is worsened by excess weight. Other excessive weight-related conditions include diabetes, pancreatitis, heart problems, respiratory problems, kidney disease, and arthritis. Related: German Shepherd Joint Problems: All You Need to Know Your German Shepherd is not likely to become overweight in the first 9 months of their lives because their growth rate easily matches their calorie intake. When your German Shepherd reaches 9 months, growth slows down significantly, and you may need to adjust their food quantities to account for this sudden reduction in calorie requirements. A helpful tip is to switch to low-calorie treats during this stage, especially considering training needs to intensify, and people often use treats for positive reinforcement incentives. And instead of switching to a calorie-restricted food or reducing the amount you feed your German Shepherd, speak to a veterinarian about switching from puppy food to adult food. Purina defines four levels of overweight: slightly overweight, markedly overweight, obese, and clinically obese. Slightly overweight: Ribs can be felt slightly, but there is an obvious layer of fat covering the ribcage and back. There is a slight waistline when viewed from the top, but it is not clear. There is a slight tummy tuck towards the hind legs when viewed from the side. Markedly overweight: Ribs are not easily felt, and there is an obvious layer of fat over the ribcage. There are fatty pads along the lower back and at the base of the tail, making the waistline absent when viewed from above. Obese: Ribs are difficult to feel because of the fatty layer covering them. There are significant fatty pads along the lower back and at the base of the tail, making the waistline absent when viewed from above. And the tummy bulges outward and sags slightly when viewed from the side. Clinically obese: Ribs cannot be felt under the fatty layer. There are significant fatty pads around the neck and legs, along the lower back, and at the base of the tail. The waistline is absent when viewed from above. The tummy significantly bulges and sags when viewed from the side. Miniature German Shepherds are much smaller and have completely different development requirements and problems. Final Thoughts The weight and growth charts provided in this article are designed to provide guidelines for the developmental milestones your puppy should be reaching in the first years of its life. Male German Shepherds are bigger and heavier than females, and from weeks old, these differences become apparent. Although males and females have different weight and height targets at each stage, they should hit the same percentages of their adult weight at the same age. If your puppy is slightly above or below the average weight or height at a given age, it does not mean that there is a problem. However, if your German Shepherd puppy starts to fall more and more behind, or if they miss other developmental milestones other than weight and height, it may indicate an underlying medical condition, and you will need to take your dog to see a veterinarian. Deficiencies in weight can compromise growth and the general condition of your German Shepherd, and excess weight can cause joint injury and other serious medical conditions. Keep all of these things in mind and be observant of your growing pup and how you approach feeding and training in accordance. By doing this, you will ensure that you have a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted German Shepherd for many years to come!

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

Go for something short, one or two syllables long. It is easier for dogs to learn short names, which means that they will recognize their name more easily. If you want to give your dog a long and complicated name, then remember that you will need a nickname for daily use. Considering it is the nickname that you will be using most and that they will recognize, make sure to give that careful consideration alongside their full name. Avoid tongue twisters. Moreover, as any human with a hard name to pronounce will know, it gets pretty annoying to have to correct people all the time. Consider choosing something that starts with a sibilant consonant or blend, such as an S or a SH, or a hard commanding consonant like a K or C. This helps your distinguish their name from the ambient noise. Avoid names that sound too much like commands that you will use regularly, as this can just confuse your pup. So, if it sounds too much like a command that you use regularly, such as sit or stay, they may confuse the two. Be a little bit wary of going for anything that is too trendy. Remember that trends change quickly, but your pup might be with you for 15 years. For example, if you decide to name your dog after a celebrity, go for something classic, like Elvis, rather than someone new. You never know what the person might do next, which could leave you regretting your dog name choice. You can draw inspiration from the way that your dog looks. What size are they? What color? What breed? Do they have a funny shape or any distinguishing features like floppy ears or an extra long tail? Do they have interesting markings? These can all be a great starting point for choosing a name that suits. Teach Your Dog Their Name Once you have chosen a dog name, you need to teach your dog to recognize it. Otherwise, how else will they identify this special sound with themselves? Training your dog to recognize their name is pretty much like any other kind of training. You show the response that you want to the word, and when they give it, positively reinforce the behavior with some kind of treat edible, praise, or play. So, the first step is to familiarize your dog with their name. Start with five-minute training sessions daily in which you have your dog in an attentive situation and then say their name. When they respond to you, give them a treat. Repeat this several times over a couple of minutes every day for a few weeks. Take them out on the leash even if it is only into the yard and let them explore. Then call their name. If they turn and give you their attention, great, reward them with a treat. When they do turn, you can say their name again, and then reward them for their response. With this kind of training, your dog will learn to associate their name with good things, and will always want to give you their attention. Wrapping Up Choosing the perfect name that your dog will use for life is a pretty big decision. It needs to suit them, and it needs to be something that everyone in the family is happy to use on a daily basis. It is worth putting in the effort to get it right. Sometimes inspiration hits quickly, and you just need to double check the name for any unexpected pitfalls, such as being a word that your dog may confuse with other confusing commands. Sometimes the problem is finding agreement among family members. When you are struggling to find a name, the best thing that you can do is expose yourself to as many names as possible, as you are increasing your chances of coming across one that feels right. We named our most recent male dog Downey after the actor Robert Downey Jr. Why Downey? Because he came from the Avengers litter and his litter name was originally Iron Man, thus Downey! How about you guys? Did you choose a name for your dog? Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. Keep in touch. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. They are ideal family pooches and revered as such, but they are also used for work, such as hunting companions and service animals. With all these remarkable traits, naming your Labrador puppy can be an overwhelming task indeed! How to Name Your Labrador Retriever Image Credit: Jaromir Chalabala, Shutterstock Naming a new puppy can be difficult, and with a dog like a Labrador that is so full of personality, looks, and energy, there are a ton of potentially perfect names. Gender may be a large factor in naming your pooch , along with their appearance, but in any case, a Lab deserves a more unique name than Spot! A name with one or two syllables is best, especially for training, but more elaborate names can easily be shortened to cute nicknames! Female Labrador Names Image Credit: Linn Currie, Shutterstock If you are lucky enough to be the proud new parent of a female Lab, you want a name that not only honors her femininity but also her unique character and sweet, gentle temperament.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. White Labradors are a very attractive and distinctive looking dog. But are White Labradors really Labradors? Are they healthy and happy pooches or does their pale color result in health problems? Read on to learn everything you need to know about these wonderful dogs and why most of them make excellent family pets or show pooches. He did have some qualities that I thought were different from the many Labs I raised over the years, but I would not consider it outside the norm for a Labrador Retriever. Different Types Of White Labradors On the most basic level, white Labradors are Labradors that have a coat that is white, or almost white, in color. But their coat takes on this unusual pigment for a Labrador for a number of different reasons. These dogs are the same as all other Labs; it is just that both of their parents had the right genes to give them a coat that approaches white. They will have the same black or brown nose and eyes as other Labs, as well as the same intelligence and temperament. They will also face the same health risks, but no additional ones due to the color of their coat. Yellow Labradors come in a range of colors, from fox red, to golden, to cream, and of course, white. White is just another natural variation within the spectrum. White Labrador dogs are usually specifically created by breeders, who have been broadening the color range of Yellow Labradors for decades in order to widen their market. White Labradors are more likely to be English Labradors than American Labradors because of the history of the breeding. This means they will also have the stockier, broader look of the English Lab. Albino Labradors Unlike Yellow Labradors with a white coat, which are healthy dogs that do not differ from their darker colored brothers and sisters, some White Labradors are the result of albinism. This is a genetic condition universal throughout the animal kingdom, but rare in dogs, affecting maybe one in every 20, The result is a pooch that has white hair and extremely pale skin. They are usually easily distinguishable from Yellow Labs that are white as they will also lack pigment in their eyes and nose. Their eyes are often a distinctive red color, though they can also be blue. Albino Labradors often develop health problems as a result of their lack of pigmentation. They are very susceptible to sun damage, which can easily result in tumors and skin cancer. Their eyes are also very sensitive to the sun and can easily become damaged. They are also often born blind or suffer from eye deformities. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish these pups from albino dogs, but they will have normal eye color. This condition is also relatively rare among Labradors, as it is a recessive trait. It can come with similar health concerns as the areas of the skin that lack pigment can also be easily damaged by the sun. But they are not at the same risk as far as the eyes are concerned. Silver Labrador White Labradors should also not be confused with Silver Labradors , which occurs as a result of the dilution of the darker pigment of black or brown dogs. They can be registered with the Kennel Club as Chocolate Labradors, but they are excluded from shows. But just like Yellow Labradors with a white coat, these Chocolate Labradors with a silver coat are natural within the color range of Labradors and they do not have different personality traits or health conditions as the result of the color of their coat. Considering this, and the fact that White Labradors are relatively rare among Yellow Labradors, they are not always easy to come across. To find a White Labrador, you will need to speak with a breeder that has chosen color as one of the traits for which they are controlling. However, it is not advisable to work with a breeder who is only or primarily controlling for color, as health and temperament are still more important features in a dog than color. Bear in mind that English Labs look different; they tend to be stockier and broader in the chest and face. They also have different personalities. They tend to be more playful and silly, but have less energy. They have become very popular dogs on the show circuit, while their silly and friendly personality makes them great family pets. It can be difficult to tell if a Lab will grow to be a true White Lab when they are a puppy, as lots of Yellow Labradors are born with a very pale coat, which gets darker as they age. Of course, while seeking out a white Yellow Labrador might be something you want, seeking out an Albino Lab or even a Leucistic Lab is not advisable because of the related health conditions. However, that is not to say there are not Albino Labs out there that need someone to adopt them and give them a loving home. American Or English Labrador? As seeking out a White Labrador probably means choosing between an American and an English Labrador , it is worth considering the differences between the two. Both dogs are friendly, good-natured, and companionable, and also intelligent and highly trainable. This is why they make excellent companion dogs and working dogs. But both were originally bred as retrievers. American Labs are those that have been bred for working, while English Labradors have been bred for conformation, which means they have been bred to more exactly align with the definition of the species, which is why they are an excellent choice for show dogs. They are called English Labradors because they are significantly more common in the UK. Meanwhile, you guessed it, the working-style Labrador is more common in the USA. But, while this is how the breeds are characterized, this is far from prescriptive, and you will often encounter English Labs as working dogs and American Labs competing in shows. So, these are not strict definitions but rather a useful guide to help you distinguish between the two extremes of the breed. They are all registered as Labrador Retrievers with the Kennel Club. That said, there are some key differences to look out for. American Labs are usually a bit taller, ranging from .This height difference results because American Labs tend to have longer legs, while English Labs are stockier. But American Labs are also heavier than their English brothers and sisters, ranging from 70 to pounds, while English Labs are usually between 60 and 85 pounds. The appearance of the two dogs is also different. English Labs tend to look heavier and more substantial, with a barrel chest. They also have a wider head and a fuller face with a shorter muzzle. The neck is thicker, and so is their coat so they also shed a bit more. American Labs also tend to have more energy than English Labs, and as a result, it is often thought a firmer hand is needed to keep American Labs under control. For this reason, they are often considered better as working dogs, and when they move into the home, they need a very active family. Because English Labs are considered calmer and quieter, they are more versatile as a family dog and also easier to train for shows. I would consider him an American Lab based on looks although his breeder said he had both American and English in his ancestry. His energy level was closer to that of an American Lab, but his goofy temperament more closely resembled an English Lab. Yes, White Labradors are very rare. Albinism is extremely rare in dogs, affecting maybe one in every 20, White Labradors that are pale Yellow Labradors are also rare. White Labs are at the extreme color range available for these pooches, and it is required that both parents have and pass on the genes that allow for this extremely light color. Exactly how big your Labrador will get depends on a lot of things, but color is not one of them. As a general rule, if your White Labrador is an American Labrador, you can expect them to weigh between 70 and pounds. English Labradors, while they look stockier, tend to be lighter, between 60 and 85 pounds, They also tend to be smaller than their American brothers and sisters. A healthy White Labrador will have the same life expectancy as the majority of Labrador Retrievers, so about 12 years. However, White Labradors that are Albino will have a significantly lower life expectancy, as they are much more likely to develop serious medical conditions, such as skin cancer and tumors. Are White Labradors Purebred? Yes, White Labradors are purebred dogs within the Yellow Labrador Retriever category, and they can be registered for shows and with the Kennel Association as Yellow Labradors. Do White Labradors Shed? All Labradors shed , and they tend to shed a lot. They have a double coat, which means they have a lot of hair to leave behind. It can be especially challenging in the shedding season, which is Spring and Fall. So, yes, you will be finding those beautiful white hairs all over your home. He definitely shed more than any other dog, Lab or otherwise that we had in our home. Do White Labradors Turn Yellow? Some of the hair of a White Labrador, especially around the tips of the ears, can turn yellow with sun exposure. In addition, many Yellow Labradors may appear white when they are born, but their hair will darken over the first few months of their life. So, you cannot always tell if a Labrador will be white during the first few months of their lives. Final Thoughts When breeders refer to a White Labrador, they are referring to a Yellow Labrador that has been specifically bred to have very pale fur. This is more common among English Labs than American Labs, but they are a naturally occurring phenomenon that occurs from the breeding process. These dogs share all the same wonderful traits as other Labradors. They are friendly and intelligent, and they make excellent family dogs, working dogs, and show dogs. However, these White Labs should not be confused with Albino Labs or Leucistic Labs, which are dogs with rare genetic conditions, meaning they lack pigment in their skin. These dogs can suffer from serious health issues as a result of sun exposure. While there are dogs out there of this variety that need a loving place to call home, it is not the same as adopting a White Labrador. They do need special care and attention. The first time Archer met his new companion was also the first time the little girl ever spoke. Do you have any experience with White Labradors? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. We specialize in breeding white labrador puppies that are socialized, free of hereditary health problems, well-exercised on 12 fenced acres, intelligent, and conform to the AKC Breed Standard. Our lab puppies are part of our family and live in a loving, inclusive, intellectually stimulating environment. All lab puppies are born in our home and remain there the eight weeks they are here at Bullis Lake. Our puppies are never caged. Their area is large and they can freely run and play with their littermates. His name is Luke! We just wanted to share a recent photo of our fifth family member. He is the most wonderful dog and continues to be incredibly healthy with no end of energy! People are shocked when they learn how old he is. He gives this family so much pleasure and joy! Bullis Lake Labradors guarantees all puppies with our Health Guarantee. Bullis Lake Labradors has veterinarians on call when the need arises. You are purchasing your next family member from a responsible, reputable breeder. We love to receive emails and pictures of our puppies as they grow. Many of our buyers become friends. All Rights Reserved. Getting down and playing with them is a good way to know which one will best suit your family Damascus Way Labradors thinks socializing your white lab puppy is the most important part of raising a quality puppy that will make a great companion for many years. Many people say " There is not such thing as a white lab puppy".Well what do you think this is? White labs are registered as yellow, but the coat color is most definately white. We welcome visitors to our facility to see our adults and our white lab puppies for sale. Call any time and set appt for a visit. We love to show off our beautiful white lab puppies for sale. White lab puppy for sale, Peacefully sleeping in our warm nursery Check out our beautiful white lab puppies for sale here at Damascus Way Labradors Temperaments:: Well i can only say that here at Damascus Way Labradors our white lab puppies for sale have a temperament of easy going, loveable lap dogs. .Yes, they do hunt and retrieve, but they can also be calm and lay by the fireside or sit at your feet while you work. This makes for a wonderful pet in our white lab puppies for sale. Coming home to Damascus Way Labradors. Now taking deposits for Puppies. Contact us to learn more, meet our parents, and reserve your puppy! Your Labrador Breeder in Arizona with a focus on Service Service Our puppy program provides a great foundation to puppies destined for service work. Many of our puppies have gone on to become excellent service dogs. We treat all of our puppies as though they are training for therapy work. This makes a great puppy for any use! I would love to introduce you to my dogs and our special puppy program! Please contact me for more information. Even if your family does not have a special need for Therapy or Service work, the preparation we provide all of our puppies makes for an excellent family pet. Working We have prepared many puppies that went on to work-life. Not every puppy succeeds at work-life training, but our puppies are given the best chance starting life in our Puppy Program. Service Our puppy program provides a great foundation to puppies destined for service work. Family Dog Our puppies make excellent family dogs. Working We have prepared many puppies for work-life. Our puppies are well prepared for their future careers. Labs are intelligent dogs and they love to have a purpose. This makes them ideal for many types of work. Thank you for trusting me and for the kind words… What an amazing experience! Sandy has developed a wonderful program that allowed our family to bond with and work with our puppy prior to bringing him home. The education and training we received has been invaluable. She genuinely cares about her pups and the product is well behaved, well adjusted, healthy and happy puppies… Our Nash is gorgeous, smart, and healthy. We cannot give a higher praise to Sandy and her entire process of placing these beautiful pups. My Lab Puppies is a breeder we recommend to all our family and friends. We have 2, Momo is a male we brought home in February .He is now 14 months old. They are now inseparable. Extremely intelligent, lovable, trainable, and kind. Not to mention beautiful. Even my old rescue terrier loves them…Sandy is a pro. No bones about it. Jane Glenn Outstanding experience! My wife researched many dog breeders before deciding this was the breeder of choice. He is turning out to be such a smart and sweet boy—he wins friends every where he goes. Sandy has been great with support and training help. You can tell she cares about breeding for temperament and with the temperament of the parents both therapy pets working with special needs children , what a great guy he is turning out to be! Wendy Holland.

Caused gas and sticky poop in some pets. They are grain-free, soy-free, and free from colors and preservatives. The treats are low in calories and contain ingredients that are healthy and nutritious. Here are some features to look for in good treats for Frenchies: Small Size and Tasty French Bulldogs tend to enjoy treats that are both flavorful and easily manageable due to their smaller size. Most Frenchies prefer soft and chewy treats, as they are easier to chew. Tasty options like chicken, beef, and sweet potatoes tend to be popular choices. Treats with a pleasant aroma can also capture their interest. Always prioritize high-quality, nutritious options that align with their dietary needs, and consider any potential allergies or sensitivities. Long-Lasting Since Frenchies are intelligent dogs, they like to stay occupied. You could choose long-lasting dog treats that your little fur baby can spend hours chewing. Such treats can come in handy when crate-training your Frenchie. For French Bulldog puppies, the best treats are those that are small, soft, and easy to chew. Look for treats with simple, natural ingredients like chicken, turkey, or sweet potatoes. It is important to choose training treats that are low in calories, as that is essential for them to stay healthy and avoid weight gain. Look for treats specifically made for puppies to support their growth and cognition. Always check the package for any ingredients your Frenchie pup might be allergic to. Remember — always give treats in moderation to keep your puppy healthy while it trains. Conclusion There are many great options when it comes to selecting dog treats for French bulldogs. They have a meaty, soft, and moist texture and are made with real meat and DHA. They are free from artificial flavors and colors and are affordably priced. These treats offer a healthy and low-calorie option for effective training sessions due to their small size and minimal caloric content. For you to accomplish your training goals, you need a healthy, high-value training treat that will make your life as a pup parent x easier. Keeping your pups attention is essential when training. These soft dog treats will get your pups attention and help maintain that much needed laser focus. At Pupford, we stand behind all our products. Made with only 3 simple ingredients or less. No fillers, junk, sugar, or other unhealthy ingredients. They're also perfect for the simple "atta boy" reward. Known as an affectionate loyal dog, these dogs can often be found in the home of city- dwellers worldwide. They are also an incredibly intelligent breed and their alertness makes them an excellent watchdog, provided you train diligently with the best training treats. Because of their natural body built and nutritional needs, it is vital to provide your bulldog with a balanced diet. Since these pups love to run around and live a fun lifestyle, look for products that are high in protein and low in fat, like our Pawstruck Lamb Ears , to ensure your pups have all the energy and fuel they need without packing on any unwanted fluff. In addition, Frenchies are prone to obesity and skin allergies. Unfortunately, their sweet squashed face means they need smaller pieces that are easy to swallow, ideally with low calories per treat. In addition, keep an eye out for dog products that contain wheat and corn, which trigger an allergic reaction. Avoid overly processed foods and simple carbs which can cause excess inflammation in the joints and add to unwanted body fat. That's why we took the guesswork out of our product inventory and rounded up the best dog treats for French Bulldogs. You can rest assured that all of these make great choices for your precious pooch! That's why we offer auto delivery on most of our French Bulldog products: to help you save time while enjoying your favorite products. Just indicate how often you want us to deliver your products and we'll make sure they get there on time! We also are proud to offer a bulk discount on many of our dog products to help you save more on large orders. Buy in bulk and save! I've found the best prices on bully sticks and other all-natural chews at Pawstruck. The braided bully sticks are insane! The only thing we have to worry about is keeping our puppy from hoarding all the chews and making him share.I have to play referee to make sure he plays nice with his fur brother! The first thing to think about is why you need treats. On the other hand, treats meant more for entertainment might mean something big and yummy to keep your dog occupied for a while. Another important decision is whether to go with crunchy or chewy treats. Some dogs prefer one or the other. Soft treats are often easy to break in half if needed. Some chewy treats are sticky enough that it takes some time for your dog to eat them. Look for high-quality proteins in the top ingredients—most treats use meat, although a few healthy treats use peanut butter or other protein options. Whole grains like oats, corn, and barley are generally healthy for your dog. Finding a flavor that motivates your dog can be tricky. Some of the most common flavors are beef, chicken, and salmon. The most common allergens in dogs are meat sources, so it might take some experimenting to find a protein type your dog loves and digests well. Once you get working, consistency is key to teaching your dog good behavior. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement.