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This article covers everything you need to know as a german shepherd owner about GSD puppies and their sleep schedule. German Shepherd puppies sleep 15 — 20 hours a day. Yes, they sleep a lot. The bodies of GSD puppies go through a cycle of development in the first 12 months of being born, and hence the long nap time. Of course, understanding your puppies sleep schedule is crucial to taking good care of it. So that your puppy can grow healthy, and happy. In the beginning, the schedule is absolutely random. Once you have the schedule figured out, you can work around it to make things easier for yourself. When you first bring your puppy home, it might confuse you with the odd sleeping hours. Your pup might wake you up during the middle of the night, for bathroom breaks. A lot of german shepherd dog owners even get woken up 2 or 3 times. But, after a few weeks, your german shepherd puppy will get used to the schedule and not wake you up at night at all. Here are the causes behind the lengthy nap schedule of GSD puppies. Some are natural, while others can stir up concern for the owner. And a lot of this growth occurs during nap time. Most sources recommend 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age. So a 20 minute exercise session should be good for your 4 month old gsd puppy. However, the problem might be solved just by doing these. While others may prefer feeding them a home made diet. Raw diets are also becoming popular. It can cause problems later on. Your best bet is to check in with your vet, and ask for diet recommendations. So how much exercise should they do regularly? According to most of the sources, a 5 minute long walk at a time for every month of age should suffice. This means that if the puppy is 2 months old, then the exercise routine should be a 10 minute walk at a time. Here are the pointers that indicate when to stop exercising. Your puppy slows down. Your puppy starts panting. Your puppy starts laying on the ground. Age also plays a role in the intensity of workouts. Do not make it run excessively. Do not make it exercise on hard surfaces like sidewalks. Grass is the best area for your GSD puppy to exercise. Do not let it jump from the couch, furniture, or obstacles. Light fetch is also fine, after a few weeks. So you have to make sure that their brain stays engaged in their waking hours. Get your puppy their favourite toys. Take time training your puppy. Play a variety of games with your puppy. Get your puppy contraption toys that make the puppy do something with their paws, or sense of smell, instead of static toys. Give your puppy small healthy treats once they complete a task. Take Your Pup to the Vet This is the first option you should be considering if your puppy is sleeping too much or too less. Lack of sleep may cause your German Shepherd puppy to become aggressive , or even worse, not grow healthy. Give it a quiet and comfortable room to sleep. Let the puppy sleep whenever it wants or as much as it wants. No interruptions, just let it have its much deserved peace and quiet. Make Sure Your Puppy Has Comfortable Environment To Sleep You may not want your puppy to sleep on the bed, or the couch, due to various reasons like danger of falling or maybe hair fall. Buying a small dog bed or crate for your puppy is ideal. Make sure the crate or bed has soft material for your puppy to sleep. German shepherds are hardy animals. Just make sure their bed is soft and comfortable. Neither too hot nor too cold. Refrain your puppy from going into direct sunlight. Keep it in cool or shady areas. Make sure it has access to cool to cold water. Similarly, anything below 40 degree Fahrenheit or even 50 degree Fahrenheit is too cold for the puppy. If winter in your location hits hard, install heaters or a central heating system. Prepare cozy blankets for your puppy. Make sure your puppy is sleeping comfortably 15 — 20 hours a day. Have fun with your cute little puppy! Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Final Thoughts When your German Shepherd is a young puppy, it needs a lot of sleep to get enough energy for physical and mental growth. When it is awake, it will be more active, exploring new things and experiencing new sensations after a good, comfortable, and secure sleep. The time of German Shepherd sleep routines varies depending on the age. When it is a puppy, it needs hours, but as an adult, your doggy may sleep for hours per day and feel great. The Shepherd deprived of good sleep can develop behavioral disorders and get sick easier. The most commonly asked questions about the German Shepherd puppy sleep schedule relate to its early age. Your puppy needs about 18 hours of sleep per day, and some young doggies may even need a bit more. So, hours per hour period is considered a norm. As your furry friend gets older, the sleeping time reduces. Your 4-month-old puppy may even sleep 11 hours per day and feel perfect. Meanwhile, adult dogs sleep for hours per hour period. You need to keep in mind that your pup will not sleep the whole night before its 6-month mark soundly. The reasons are missing the littermates and mother and feeling insecure surrounded by new smells and noises. However, the most important reason is the small size of its bladder that does not allow it to retain from potty for such a long time. So, it may start whining and crying if it wants to go potty. The latter issue is vital for potty training — you need to go out to potty times per night before your doggy reaches months old to avoid accidents. You may even need to wake up your puppy at night to do without unexpected occasions. Your little pup may also start crying at night for other reasons, for example, if it is scared or feels lonely or hungry. You can try to help it sleep better in several ways. First of all, ensure that your pet is tired enough before going to bed. Take it out for 5 minutes to walk during its first month and add the next 5 minutes for every month of its life. For example, your 4-month-old puppy can walk for 20 minutes. If your puppy is very young, let it sleep in your room when you first get it home. Put the crate beside your bed to comfort it easily during the night. You also need to offer your new pet familiar objects, for example, clothes or toys with the scent of its previous home. Arrange a comfortable sleeping place equipped with blankets, stuffed toys, and snacks. You may even play soothing music during bedtime, eliminating anxiety and preventing whining. Classical music is a good choice for this purpose. Comfortable bedding is essential. The space should not be large because they may attempt to do their business right where they are sleeping if they find a vacant spot. However, move the crate out of your bed when it gets older. Do it gradually, moving it farther and farther every night. Then, the time will come to take it away from your bedroom, and your puppy will feel comfortable with it. The difference between human and dog sleep cycles is dramatic. They are much shorter in dogs. Dogs have only two REM cycles at a time. They last 6 minutes. Dogs are polyphasic sleepers because they can also go to bed in the daytime. People are monophasic, sleeping hours at night. That is why while people spend their daytime working and alert, dogs need about 5 hours of rest per day. They do not necessarily sleep fast during this time. There has been a discussion on whether dogs can dream. Yes, dreaming can occur during the REM phase. Puppies may dream even more than adult dogs because they sleep more and their nervous system is not stable at all. So, they may dream about their daily activities, food, playing with you, and other things that are processed in their brain. When you notice that your pup moves its limbs as if running or murmurs something while sleeping, it is evidence of its dreaming. What do they mean? The most widely observed position is sleeping on the back. The reasons for this position are the following: Your pet feels entirely comfortable. This position provides complete relaxation. The pup feels safe and protected. Your dog trusts you if it exposes its vulnerable stomach to the outer world. It does not expect attacks from any enemies or predators. That is why canines rarely sleep on their backs in the wild. Your doggy wants to express submission. It does not mean challenging your authority or confronting other animals in the house. The German Shepherd may just want to feel colder. Its thick plush coat, especially if it is long-haired, does not allow it to cool down easily, so it lays on its back to let the air circulate around its body, over the belly, and paws. In this case, you may notice your dog lying on its back on the cold tile or even near the open window. German Shepherds also sleep in many other positions. The most popular of them include the following: Close to their owner. It is pretty pleasing when your doggy sleeps by your bed or is somehow close to you. Shepherds like to feel a part of a pack, so if they sleep like that, they feel more secure. Tightly curled up. This position allows a German Shepherd to maintain the heat efficiently. These dogs usually sleep like that in cold weather or if they feel something threatening to protect their neck and stomach against unexpected attacks. With the tail on their nose. A German Shepherd has a very sensitive nose, and it wants to protect it from rain, snow, or wind. It happens when your dog sleeps outdoors, especially in winter. On the side. This position allows the doggy to extend its muscles and joint as much as possible. It also means that the Shepherd feels comfortable and confident in this environment and does not expect any enemies or unwanted encounters. This position can also be observed if they sleep next to another animal — a cat or a dog — they consider their friends. On the belly. If your doggy feels comfortable, this position is uncommon. Moreover, it is neither comfortable nor relaxing. However, it can easily and quickly stand up and jump or run from it if it is needed. They mostly depend on their personality. The question of sleeping with your German Shepherd puppy is essential for many dog owners. The common advice is not to do that during the first months of your pup in your home. Instead, you can put its dog bed or crate next to your bed to soothe it quickly if it feels uncomfortable or scared. Moreover, your young doggy may have accidents at night, and you need to potty train it first. However, when your dog is an adult, you can do it, and it will bring a lot of positive moments to both of you. When your doggy is well-behaved and trained properly, you may get a lot of benefits from sleeping with it. They are the following: you will increase your comfort and security; your overall health condition can improve; the risk of sudden death will decrease; the cholesterol and triglyceride levels will go down; the blood pressure will become lower; this kind of sleeping can promote creativity; it will regulate your heartbeat rates; your memory will improve; you will wake up in a great mood due to the flow of oxytocin; you will feel absolutely protected and safe; the furry and cuddly friend will make you feel cozy and comfortable; the immunity will boost. Of course, close and continuous contact with animals can provoke allergic reactions. However, recent research shows that children who sleep with their pets are less likely to develop any allergies when they grow up. You may wonder why your doggy sleeps so much or has just changed its sleeping habits dramatically. Generally, an adult German Shepherd sleeps hours per day, but puppies and senior dogs sleep longer, which is normal. You can consider different causes if your pup sleeps too much and decide what you can do after talking to your vet. Your doggy needs this time to develop or restore its brain, central nervous system, immune system, and muscles. It uses so much energy during the day that it needs to compensate for it while sleeping. However, if your grown-up German Shepherd sleeps more than 14 hours and is apathetic all the other time, you may start to be concerned and take your pup to the vet. Excess heat. German Shepherds are bred to feel comfortable in colder environments. That is why they have double-layered coats. When the weather is very hot, they become sleepy to cool down. Just give it access to shade and cool areas and provide it with good amounts of water during the day. Never let it stay in direct sunlight. Your pup does not feel well. If your German Shepherd started sleeping more for no reason, it might be a sign of some health issues. So, you need to have it checked by the vet immediately. Your doggy is bored. German Shepherds are working dogs with a lot of energy and drive. You should exercise your pet a lot. At least one hour of intense exercise per day is vital. However, be careful not to overexercise your pup when it is little. Add 5 minutes of walking and training per every month of its age, or you can damage its bones and joints. Pick out an appropriate diet. Poor diet may be a cause of extensive sleeping. Talk to your vet to choose the diet your Shepherd needs, or opt for one meant specifically for German Shepherds. Age is a crucial factor. You know now that little puppies need a lot of sleep, and it is normal when your fluffy cub sleeps hours per day. The same is applicable to senior dogs. Older animals need more sleep to restore their muscles and brain activity. Moreover, they get tired easily and need a lot of rest. To make your pup sleep according to its age and environment, you may need to make some changes and deal with different factors. Consider the weather conditions too. If your pup sleeps more when it is cold or hot outside, it is also a normal reaction to temperature changes. If it gets to sleep immediately after feeding , you may need to adjust the diet a bit. If not, make some changes. Always check whether it has constant access to fresh water. Underhydration can be one of the reasons for a long sleep. Of course, when you notice abrupt changes, you must take your pet to the veterinarian. Long sleeping time may be the first sign of some unpleasant health disorders. Little puppies can sleep hours per day, while adult dogs usually need hours of sleep round-the-clock. If your German Shepherd starts sleeping too much, it may be a sign of a minor illness. The excess sleeping may also be a result of heat, boredom, or a poor diet. Older German Shepherds can also start sleeping a lot. Why does my German Shepherd sleep on its back? When your dog sleeps on its back, it always looks cute. The reasons for it can be different, but the main one is that it feels comfortable and absolutely trusts you. It can also show submission in this way, or it is too hot, and your doggy wants to cool down. Why is my German Shepherd breathing so fast while sleeping? Breathing faster means that your doggy is in its REM phase of sleep, which is accompanied by a high amount of brain activity. So, your pup needs more energy and starts breathing faster to get an additional amount of oxygen for the brain. Breathing fast helps it transfer this oxygen from the lungs to the bloodstream, converting it into energy. How many hours does a German Shepherd sleep? The number of hours your German Shepherd pup can sleep is pretty individual. There are no strict standards. Little puppies sleep hours daily, while adult dogs reduce this number to .Senior dogs can sleep more — hours is normal. Ill doggies can sleep most time because sleeping helps them recover. Final Thoughts Remember that comfortable and safe German Shepherd sleeping is key to its healthy and happy life. All sleeping habits are pretty individual. If your German Shepherd sleeps well, you will enjoy long years together. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. During sleep a German Shepherds brain, central nervous system, immune system and muscles develop. Since German Shepherd puppies grow quickly it is necessary for them to get a lot of sleep so that they are able to direct their energy towards growing. With that being said, if your German Shepherd puppy sleeps for more than 20 hours per day and it is lethargic when it is awake then it may be cause for concern and it would help to take it to a vet. Other things that can cause a German Shepherd puppy to sleep a lot While it is normal for a German Shepherd puppy to sleep a lot there are also a number of other factors that could be contributing to it sleeping so much. Additionally, if it is more than 16 weeks old, it should be starting to sleep much less than it used to. If it is sleeping for more than 14 hours per day then it could be that there is something else contributing to it. Below, I will mention a number of things that could be causing your German Shepherd puppy to be sleeping a lot. Heat Heat can also contribute to a German Shepherd puppy becoming sleepy. German Shepherds are designed to thrive in colder environments which is why they have double coats. As a result of this, when the weather starts to heat up, it can cause them to be more sleepy. Heat would be much more likely to be the reason why your GSD puppy has been sleeping a lot if it suddenly started to sleep a lot more when the weather became hotter. If that is the case, it would help to make sure that it has access to shade, cool areas and water throughout the day. It would also help to avoid letting it out in direct sunlight when the sun is directly overhead. Illness Illness can also cause a German Shepherd puppy to be more sleepy. This would be more likely to be the reason if your German Shepherd puppy suddenly started to sleep a lot more than it used to. It would also be more likely if its behavior changed suddenly or if it became lethargic as well. If you think that it might be sleeping too much due to illness then the best option for you would be to have it checked up on by a vet. Boredom It might be the case that it has been sleeping more than usual due to boredom. German Shepherds are highly active, while they are awake, when they are young. If they do not have things to stimulate them in their environment then it can cause them to become bored. German Shepherd adults require a lot of exercise. However, the amount that you should be exercising your German Shepherd puppy will be a lot less since their joints are not fully developed yet. Instead, you can keep it occupied, while it is young, by training it to behave the way that you want it to when it is older. It is important to take the time to train it while it is young since it will be easier to change its habits and you will be able to avoid behavioral issues when it gets older. Diet A poor diet could also be why your German Shepherd puppy sleeps a lot. This would be especially likely if it started to sleep more at around the same time that you changed its diet. You can look at this website to see what you should and should not be feeding your German Shepherd puppy. If you are unsure of what food to get for your German Shepherd, consider getting dog food designed specifically for German Shepherds. You can get dog food specifically designed for German Shepherd puppies on Chewy here. Too much exercise While it could be the case that your German Shepherd puppy gets bored, it could also be the case that it is getting too much exercise. Since German Shepherd puppies grow rapidly it is important not to exercise them too much otherwise it can damage their joints. According to the Kennel Club , a good rule of thumb is to give your German Shepherd puppy 5 minutes of exercise per day for every month of age. So, if it is 3 months old, it would be recommended to limit its exercise to 15 minutes. If your German Shepherd puppy is lethargic when it is awake then it would be a sign that you are giving it too much exercise. Related post: Ways to exercise your German Shepherd. Consider if it suddenly started sleeping a lot more If your German Shepherd puppy has slept a lot right from the start but it is lively when it is awake then it is likely that it sleeps a lot naturally. Whereas, if it has suddenly started to sleep a lot more than it usually does then it would be more likely that there is something wrong. The list mentioned above could all be reasons why your German Shepherd puppy suddenly started sleeping a lot. It would help to consider what else changed at around the same time that it started to sleep more than usual. If it has also become lethargic when it is awake or its behavior has changed then it would likely be worthwhile for you to take it to the vet. What to do about your German Shepherd puppy sleeping a lot There are a number of things that you can do about your German Shepherd puppy sleeping a lot that I will mention below. Allow it to sleep as much as it needs to As mentioned above, it is natural for a German Shepherd puppy to be sleeping a lot. With that being the case, one of the best things that you will be able to do is to allow it to continue to sleep as much as it needs to. You should find that it will, gradually, begin to sleep less as it gets older. Make its sleeping environment comfortable Seeing as they are meant to be sleeping a lot, it would help if you can make its sleeping environment as comfortable as possible. You can do this by ensuring that it is not too hot where it sleeps, it is comfortable for it and that it has access to water when it wants it. Ensure that its diet is right Seeing as its diet could be contributing to it sleeping so much it would help to ensure that it is getting the right diet. Give it access to cool and shaded areas If you live in a warm area then it would likely be helpful if you can ensure that your GSD puppy has access to cool and shaded areas when it wants it. It would also help to avoid taking it outside when it is hot out and to do it in the morning or evening instead. Take it to a vet If you are unsure of why your German Shepherd puppy is sleeping so much or you think that there might be something wrong then the best option for you would be to have a vet look at it. If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link. As mentioned, German Shepherd puppies have short bursts of energy followed by long, restful naps. When playing or on a walk, it may seem like your puppy has a limitless store of excitement. Once they wear out, however, they tend to fall into a deep sleep—and may even snore! On average, a German Shepherd puppy will sleep between 15 and 20 hours each day. During growth periods, they may only get up to eat or go for a walk. Once fully grown, a German Shepherd will sleep around 12 or 14 hours a day. German Shepherds will take naps throughout the day, then sleep while their human sleeps for 6 or 8 hours. You can ensure your German Shepherd gets adequate exercise by taking it for long walks or hikes, playing fetch, or engaging it with agility workouts and puzzle toys. German Shepherds are intelligent dogs and need mental and physical stimulation for health and happiness. German Shepherds are naturally alert and protective , making them ideal for farm, police, military, and guard work. If you live in a busy area, you may want to provide your German Shepherd with a dark, quiet room to sleep in. If you use a crate or kennel, you can drape a blanket over it to shut out some light and sound for restful sleep. This is especially helpful with young puppies that may experience separation anxiety. Cars, buzzing insects, appliances, televisions, and cell phones can all make noises that put your dog on alert. German Shepherds usually live between 9 and 13 years. During this stage, your German Shepherd may sleep a bit more than the expected 12 or 14 hours a day, just like an older human. Along with the change in sleep patterns, your senior German Shepherd may show some graying around the eyes and muzzle, less interest in playing, and less energy for walks and hikes. If your German Shepherd is sleeping more than 14 hours as an adult, should you be worried? In some cases, longer sleep or more frequent sleep could indicate that your dog is experiencing a minor illness. If your German Shepherd is sleeping excessively for several weeks, however, you may want to take it to the vet for a checkup. Conditions like diabetes , hypothyroidism , Lyme disease , and arthritis can lead to increased sleep and may require treatment. Related Reads:. By Retriever Pets Ever wondered why your german shepherd sleeps a lot and is in weird positions? While asleep, your body can fix what has been injured or depleted, improving your mind, health, and general wellbeing. This is not only true for human beings but also for German Shepherds. But how much should a german shepherd puppy, adult, or senior sleep? A German Shepherd should have hours of sleep on average. This pattern may change with the kind of lifestyle the dogs end up living. For instance, older and younger German Shepherd tend to sleep more, while working or active German Shepherds tend to sleep less. You may have a German Shepherd that is quick to nap and you may have one that looks like it is a night owl. In this article, we talk about German Shepherds and their sleep patterns. We also discuss lifestyles that prevent German Shepherds from sleeping well and the dangers of such lifestyles. Read on and find out more about naptime and German Shepherds. Importance of Sleep to a German Shepherd German Shepherds are some of the most active and energetic dogs. They are highly intelligent maintaining a strong reputation as loyal and protective dog breeds. Initially bred as herding dogs, they portrayed strong guarding and protective instincts and have over the years become the preferred guard, guide, military, police, search and rescue dogs. What a resume!!!! But to have all these possible, German Shepherds have to be in tiptop shape. They have to be trained, fed, protected and constantly shown attention. Like all mammals, sleep is a very important element in the well-being of German Shepherds. Through sleep, German Shepherds can attain the following benefits: For better brain function — German Shepherds face many mental challenges on a typical day. For the dog to be highly effective in both mental and physical activities during the day, it has to have a certain period of mental and physical inactivity to rejuvenate brain function. This keeps the dog alert throughout the day. For Memory Retention — German Shepherds are intelligent and can often be taught a variety of lessons throughout their day. To ensure that these lessons stick, sleeping plays a key role. A well-rested German Shepherd can perform and remember certain tasks better than a fatigued German Shepherd. Strengthens the Immune System — Sleep-deprived German Shepherds are more prone to sickness and infections. For Physical Recovery — Sleep is a naturally rejuvenates. A German Shepherd is extremely active and, by the end of any day, could be extremely exhausted. By Sleeping, German Shepherds can rest and recover from physical exhaustion. German Shepherd puppies need to sleep for hours if they are to grow well. Sleep deprivation can suppress the release of this hormone, among others, that are critical for proper mental and physical development. Sleeping Habits of a German Shepherd Puppy Young German Shepherd puppies require more hours of sleep so that they may grow and develop. Typically, these puppies require hours of sleep per day. They require adequate food and rest as they easily get tired, especially during training and play-time. Due to its guarding and protective nature, you may find an adult German Shepherd sleeping lesser hours due to how active it is during the day. Additionally, the need to protect forces the German Shepherd to remain alert; hence, they end up becoming light sleepers. Their bodies are slowly deteriorating. Just like young German Shepherds, these senior citizens will sleep from hours. Do you own a German shepherd and want to get a cat and want to know if they get along? Why does my German Shepherd sleep so much? You may be wondering why your German Shepherd sleeps a lot. Several reasons could explain this behavior. German Shepherd puppies sleep for hours a day. This allows them to grow well, developing a healthy immune system, bones, and muscles. Adult German Shepherd sleep for hours a day. Depending on the kind of lifestyle they are living, adult German Shepherd needs to be alert and hence will sleep less. When they do sleep, they are extremely light sleepers keeping an ear out for danger. Senior German Shepherds sleep for hours. Their body organs are slowly deteriorating and they are becoming less and less energetic. At this age, German Shepherds tire out more quickly and end up sleeping more often. As the adult German shepherd grows older, it will certainly start sleeping more often. Nature Unlike human beings who require hours of sleep a day, a German Shepherd sleeps for hours a day Coile, .This is an important process as a German Shepherd is quite active and energetic. During the day, you will find the dog playing and roughhousing. Heat The current temperature can also greatly affect how much a German Shepherd sleeps. German Shepherds were initially bred to thrive in cold environments hence why they have double coats. However, in regions where the weather is hot, German Shepherds become sleepy sleeping for more than 14 hours a day. If you live in a warm or hot area, ensure your German Shepherd has access to shade, cool areas, and water throughout the day. Also, ensure that you take your German shepherd on walks when the sun is not directly overhead. Illness When a German shepherd is sick, it can also sleep longer than it is used to. If you notice that your German shepherd sleeping suddenly, more often and exhibiting certain behavioral changes, such as being lethargic, it is likely they are sick. Check-in with your vet if you suspect this. Boredom German Shepherds sleep because they are bored. With such an active and energetic personality, German Shepherds need a lot of physical and mental stimulation throughout their day. They also require a lot of attention from their owner. When German Shepherds are not mentally stimulated, they can easily get bored and sleep more often. You must consider increasing the number of activities that your German Shepherd is exposed to in a day. If it is a puppy, limiting the amount of exercise is critical for its growth as it can end up hurting its joints. Diet The diet you are feeding your German Shepherd also contributes to how long it will sleep in a day. Your German Shepherd requires a healthy and balanced diet to ensure it has a normal sleeping pattern. However, if you change its diet and it is not balanced, your German Shepherd may start sleeping more than usua Research on the best German Shepherd diets to follow to ensure you do not end up giving your pup an unbalanced diet. German Shepherds sleep problem Yes, German Shepherds can have sleeping problems if their state of mind is affected. Certain mental conditions or diseases could lead to the development of sleeping problems. They often act out the dreams they are experiencing with vocal sounds, sudden violet leg movements, twitching, and other bodily movements. In extreme cases, the German Shepherd can attack objects violently and run wild. When they wake up it is as if nothing happened and they continue with their life as normal. This is most common in obese German Shepherds whose airways have been narrowed by fat deposits. Such dogs will often snore loudly to the point of being startled by their own snores. They will wake up sluggish and tired. In extreme cases, Chronic Sleep Apnea can be fatal where the dog is unable to breathe properly when asleep. Insomnia — When German shepherds have certain health and mental issues, such as depression, stress, flea infestation, anxiety, chronic pain, and pent-up energy, they may experience insomnia. Narcolepsy Sleep Disorder — It is a sleeping disorder that causes a German Shepherd to suddenly collapse and sleep when it is excited or during physical activity. The German Shepherd does not experience any pain. Sleeping positions You may find your German Shepherd sleeping in a weird position, one that looks as though it is defying the laws of nature. This is typical of all German Shepherds. The sleeping position your German Shepherd chooses often spells out the kind of life they are living and the influence the surroundings may be having on them at that particular moment. Let us check out a few sleeping positions and understand what they mean. Sleeping upside down This is one of the weirdest and hilarious positions to find your German Shepherd taking a nap. The legs are usually suspended in the air, and the dog practically looks like it is playing dead. Finding your German Shepherd sleeping in this position could mean one of three things: The pup is relaxed and comfortable with its paws facing up. The dog is submitting to its owners The dog feels very safe and does not have to worry about being attacked by enemies The dog is trying to cool down Sleeping on the side A German Shepherd sleeping on its side normally has its paws outstretched before it. This is one of the most common sleeping positions for German Shepherds and is evident when the dog wants to stretch its legs so that they are more relaxed. Also, if you find them sleeping in this position, it signifies that the dog is feeling comfortable and safe in that environment. Sleeping while curled up like a ball This is also one of the weird positions you may find a German Shepherd sleeping, especially where the pup chooses to cuddle up in a small space, such as a basket or box. Typically, your German shepherd sleeps in this position to keep warm. You will often find the puppy curled up this way in colder months. Sleeping on its front This is one of the most natural sleeping positions for German shepherds. It is a position that allows them to stay alert and attack in case of anything. This position gives them an added advantage as they can quickly rise to their feet and charge. Tail wrapped over its nose This position is not as common. A sleeping German Shepherd will want to protect the most exposed part of its body, being the nose, from any injuries or flying elements. You will find a German Shepherd sleeping in this position during seasons where the weather is harsh, for instance when it raining, snowing, or windy. Sited but Upright Picture a Kangaroo sitting down. Yes, this is a legitimate sleeping position for a German Shepherd. It is hands-down, one of the weirdest and uncommon sleeping positions. The pup sits on its tail with its hind legs stretched before it, and the upper body rests either on a wall or back of a chair supported on either side. Such a position just shows how comfortable and safe your dog feels. Also, it allows the pup to cool off. These are some of the most common German Shepherd sleeping positions. They communicate a lot about their current situation and the influence the environment may be having on them. For instance, if you find your German Shepherd sleeps while curled up during extremely hot days, it may be an indication that the pup is coming down with something. Where should a German Shepherd Sleep? Now that we have covered the reason a German Shepherd sleeps and its sleeping habits, let us talk about where it should sleep. We all know that a good bed or sleeping structure highly contributes to how well we rest. Is this true for Germans Shepherds as well? Yes, providing a safe and comfortable environment where a German Shepherd sleeps is important. Most German Shepherd owners provide a doggie bed; however, this is not enough. Ensure that the bed is placed in a suitable location. Place the doggie bed in a location that not too hot. Also, ensure that the dog has access to clean water from where it sleeps. This will give the dog a comfortable sleeping environment. Since you are part of their flock, they will want to sleep next to you. Its Protective instincts German Shepherds have very strong protective instincts. At night especially, they would rather sleep next to you and protect you, than in the other room. Separation Anxiety Genetically, German shepherds were bred as herd animals. They will want to spend every waking moment with members of their flock. As a member of its flock, expect the German Shepherd to get quite anxious and angry when you leave it behind. This is why it is attached to you and may also want to sleep in your bed at night. They are trained to sleep next to people Your German Shepherd may have been trained to sleep next to people as a puppy. If you allowed your German Shepherd to sleep in your bed, or if its previous owners allowed the pup to sleep with them, then sleeping with you even in old age is normal. This is the most likely reason for their behavior. In summary: German Shepherd sleep Position, Habits and quantity An adult German Shepherd should have hours of sleep each day, while puppies and senior German Shepherds sleep for hours. Of course, the amount of sleep highly depends on the lifestyle and health of the German Shepherd. A Healthy German Shepherd will get its beauty sleep, and most times, the sleeping position will communicate how comfortable, safe, and rested the dog is. However, if the pup is battling any sort of health condition, whether mental or physical, sleep patterns may likely be affected. You may find that your German Shepherd sleeps less or more depending on the kind of illness it is battling. Therefore, if you want a healthy German Shepherd, be sure to check on its habits and conditions. Ensure you provide the most comfortable option for the pup, be it sleeping on its own bed or yours. Human beings require hours of sleep per day, but do German shepherds need more or fewer hours? You might notice that your German shepherd is sleeping most of the time or he is ever alert and awake. So, how much sleep is healthy for your GSD? A German shepherd should sleep for around hours per day. Different lifestyles will greatly affect the number of hours a German shepherd will sleep. An Active GSD will sleep less compared to puppies, and senior dogs. Contents How much sleep is normal for a German shepherd? An adult German shepherd can sleep for hours. He will not sleep for 14 consecutive hours but they will be small naps in the day and some continuous hours at night. How long should I expect my German shepherd puppy to sleep? German shepherd puppies sleep for around hours per day. They spend most of their time discovering their environments and they easily get exhausted. Their bodies are in the growing process and need a lot of rest and food. The more a German shepherd ages, the more sleep he will need. An old GSD can sleep for hours. Effects of different lifestyles on the sleeping time A dog that works as a sniffing dog, in rescue missions, or the military services tend to work tirelessly. They do not have a fixed sleeping schedule. German shepherds are loyal and easy to train, they will readily work without ceasing to please the owner. A German shepherd that lives in the house will tend to sleep more than a working dog. He will have lots of time on his own except the training hours. German shepherds can learn to adapt to any sleeping schedule that the owner will introduce. If your adult dog is sleeping for more than 16 hours, it can be termed excessive sleeping. If your GSD is almost heading to his prime years it can be the cause. Your German shepherd can sleep excessively because of an underlying health condition. Setting a fixed sleeping schedule can help in regulating his sleep. You should exercise him and give him chew toys to engage his mind. If your dog continues to sleep excessively, consult a vet. Your German shepherd might be sleeping less because he has so much energy in him that needs to be released. This can be solved by exercising him for not less than two hours a day. If your GSD does not sleep as he should after exercises, you should take him to a vet. The vet might prescribe some medicines like melatonin. Melatonin assists dogs to sleep better, the dose to be prescribed will be determined by the size of your dog. It is not recommendable to give your dog drugs before consulting your vet. It is not advisable to let your German shepherd sleep with you until he is potty trained. Once your dog can wake up on his own for potty breaks, you can sleep with him. It is not conditional to sleep with your GSD but a matter of choice. Providing your German Shepherd with good sleep conditions When you first take your German shepherd puppy home from a breeder or adoption center, he will have difficulties sleeping. The scent makes the puppy think that the mother is around he sleeps comfortably. If the above methods are not applicable, you can buy a spray bottle of Dog Appeasing Hormone. This helps them to relax their feet and it shows that they feel safe in the environment. Sleeping On Its Front This position helps them to be alert while sleeping. Curled up tightly This position is common in German shepherds in the cold seasons. It helps them to decrease the amount of heat getting lost to the environment. It also helps them to protect the belly and neck from any attack. Tail covering its nose This is another common sleeping style in winter. It protects their noses from cold, wind, and rain. Close to the owner Dogs love companionship, by sleeping next to you they feel safe and comfortable. Conclusion Sleep is a fundamental need for a GSD. The amount of sleep your German shepherd gets affects his well-being. You should know the required sleeping hours for German shepherds as per their ages so that you can know when your GSD is oversleeping or not getting enough sleep. Carol is a paw parent, and her love for dogs started when she was just 5. She adores her two German Shepherds and a Bengal cat, who she says, "life would be incomplete without" Recent Posts. Puppies are similar to babies, they eat, poop, play and sleep. This article will answer those questions and give you some insight into German Shepherd puppy sleeping habits. Yes, German Shepherd puppies sleep a lot. A GSD pup will normally sleep upwards of 18 to 20 hours a day. They are usually asleep unless you are engaging with them in some way. It is normal for German Shepherd puppies to sleep up to 20 hours a day. GSD puppies sleep so much because their bodies are still developing and growing fast so they need to sleep to fuel that process. As they get older, they will sleep a little less. German Shepherd puppies should sleep in a crate when really young and not yet trained. This is because if your puppy has too much space to roam, it will be harder to get them potty trained as they will just find a spot to do their business away from where they are sleeping. Some of the best crates for German Shepherd puppies are ones that can grow with your pup and come with a divider. This is not to say your pup has be crated forever, think of this as a tool to help them get house-trained faster and to keep them safe. As mentioned above, it is too easy for them to find a spot to do their business if they have free access to the whole room at night. However, once your puppy knows how to wake you up for their bathroom break, it is really a personal decision as to whether you want your pup to sleep in your bed. German Shepherd Puppy Sleeping Habits As mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies will usually sleep between 18 and 20 hours a day, which is totally normal. It is also normal for a puppy to not be able to sleep through the night. Just like newborn babies need to get on a schedule so does your new puppy. When my GSD puppy first came home, she usually woke me up two or three times each night for potty breaks. Final Thoughts German Shepherd puppies sleep a lot because their bodies are developing and going through a lot of growth when they are really young. It is normal for a puppy to only be awake for 6 hours a day when you first bring them home. Unless they are playing with toys , eating, drinking, or going outside, they will probably be sleeping. If you feel like your GSD puppy is sleeping too much you can check with your vet to make sure all is ok just for peace of mind. They need to go to the toilet How to stop a german shepherd puppy crying at night? There are many different reasons that your pup may be crying at night. Fortunately, there are also lots of ways to help him sleep better at night. Here are a few of the ways you can stop your german shepherd puppy from crying at night: Exercise to tire your German Shepherd puppy out: Your puppy should be taken out for 5 minutes for however many months old they are. For example, a 3-month-old puppy would be taken out for 15 minutes. Make sure you tire them out enough to help them sleep better at night. Let your German Shepherd puppy outside before bed: Make sure you let your puppy outside to relieve himself before putting him to bed. Surround your German Shepherd puppy with familiar objects: Bring clothing with the scent of the home or the breeder next to him while he sleeps. This will help give him something familiar and help him ease into the transition to his new home. Play soothing music: Playing classical music before and during bedtime can help alleviate whining and anxiety as well as drown out other noise or unfamiliar sounds that may upset or rouse your puppy. The average dog sleeps for only 45 minutes at a time, while human sleep cycles are much longer, lasting 70 to minutes. Dogs can only experience two sleep cycles during that time period. Dogs also differ from humans in that they are polyphasic sleepers, which means they sleep on and off throughout the day. Humans, on the other hand, are monophasic sleepers. Most humans receive their 7 to 9 hours of sleep all at once. While humans spend most of their waking hours awake and alert, dogs dedicate up to 5 hours of their day to simply resting. Dogs who rest more during the day tend to seem happier and more relaxed. Do dogs dream and what about? Dreaming occurs mainly during this REM phase of sleep. And dogs do cycle through REM during their sleep. So its make sense to believe that dog do dream. A puppy will spend more time in dream sleep than an adult dog as they fall asleep more often. So just what are our furry friends dreaming about? Anything your dog does during the day is being processed while they sleep and relived in their dream. This can be observed by their twitching whiskers, the whimpering, and the running paws while they are sleeping. Chances are that your dog may also be dreaming about you if you spend enough quality time interacting with them. They will be dreaming about your play session, walks, and cuddle time together. Where should my German Shepherd puppy sleep? German Shepherd puppies should sleep inside with comfortable beddings. This is because if your puppy has too much space to roam, it will be harder to get them potty trained as they will just find a spot to do their business away from where they are sleeping. You can place the crate beside your bed or in an area close to you. In this way, your new furry friend can smell you. And it gives him a sense of security. Should I sleep with my German Shepherd puppy? You should not sleep with your German Shepherd puppy during the first few months home. Yet you can let your pup sleep beside you in a crate or a dog bed. Your puppy needs to get used to a regular schedule, work on their independence, and see you as the dominant figure. Once your GSD has become an adult months-old to 2-year-old , it will be fine for you to sleep with him. Can I let my German Shepherd puppy sleep with me? A new dog may need some time to adjust before they are ready to sleep in your bed. If they show interest in sleeping with you and are well-behaved , you can always let them on the bed later on down the road. What are the benefits of sleeping with dogs? If you are still reading, chances are you might like to sleep with your dog at night. Pets offer comfort and security, but they may affect sleep quality or trigger allergies for some people. Petting dogs in particular has proved to reduce blood pressure and heart rate. If touching your pet is part of the key to gaining health benefits, cuddling up together at night is only to make it better. Sleeping with dogs promotes creativity Studies have shown that when dogs are with their owners their heartbeats sync up. This experience promotes theta brainwaves which can be seen in connection with creativity, intuition, daydreaming, and fantasizing and is a repository for memories, emotions, sensations. Theta waves are strong during internal focus, meditation, prayer, and spiritual awareness. Sleeping with dogs boost your mood Studies have found that people who spend time with dogs reported fewer depressive symptoms. Not only is it fun to be with your furry friends, it also helps us relax and increases our flow of oxytocin, the love chemical. Sleeping with dogs makes you feel safe Think about it — your GSD is hard-wired to protect. Many people and having the dog protecting them helps them feel more secure and sleep more soundly. Sleeping with dogs is comfortable That furry, cuddly animal is likely to love lying with you just as much as you enjoy laying with them. The level of comfort a dog brings to the bed helps put you at ease and makes you feel cozy. Sleeping with dogs promote immunity Many people have hygienic concerns when it comes to sleeping with their dogs. However, one study found that infants who slept with their pets were less likely to develop allergies later on in life. After all, your new furry friend will sleep for at least 15 hours per day during their short lives. And the better they sleep, the healthier and happier they are. Further reading. They are the second most popular breed in America. German Shepherds are an active breed that requires extensive physical and mental training to stay engaged. Their bites have lbs of force, which is close to 3 times the force of a human bite. Make sure train to your pup not to bite unless the person is an intruder. A German Shepherd puppy can adopt the same routine as a human baby. Incorporate enough time throughout the day for a rotating schedule of eating, potty breaks, playing, and sleeping. Providing a balanced and engaging schedule for your puppy will get him or her more able to become accustomed to sleep training. Your new puppy will be getting used to their new home with you and adjusting to your sleep schedule as well. When the pup is not playing, eating, or taking potty breaks, he or she may squeeze in a day time nap. Their bladders are not fully developed yet, so they are always in need of a potty break. Be prepared for your puppy to wake you up in the middle of the night the first few weeks of bringing him or her home for midnight potty breaks. If you have multiple adults in the house, create a rotating schedule of who will take out the dog for a midnight potty break based on the day of the week. If you have yourself and two others in your home, try a schedule like this: You: Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday Significant other, roommate, or another family member: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Your older child or teenager: Saturday nights only What Are Other Reasons for Sleeping a Lot? There are other contributing factors as to why your German Shepherd puppy is sleeping a lot. When they are just months old, their normal sleep schedule will be for normal growth and development of their brain, immune system, and joints. Keep an eye on the other factors that could be reasons as to why he or she is sleeping more and adjust their environment accordingly. Poor diet, excessive exercise, sickness, heat, and boredom could be other reasons for your puppy sleeping more than usual. If your pup is not eating the right nutritious food, he or she could become sleepier throughout the day. Your pup should eat protein-rich nutritious dog food specially formulated for German Shepherds. According to Pet Care Rx , the age, activity, and general health of your pup will decide how much calories it needs throughout the day which is anywhere from to per day. Pet Care Rx suggests giving your pup one of the following for a balanced diet. Young puppies are still in the process of developing their bones and joints. Excessive exercise will only tire your German Shepherd puppy out faster and repeated instances of too much exercise could mess up their sleep schedule. The German Shepherd Shop recommends the following exercises to help your pup stay healthy. Limit tug of war activities to only minutes at a time. Take your puppy on small walks around the block for optimal exercise. Play fetch for about 5 minutes at a time which could be a good throws. Encourage normal puppy free play with their toys at their leisure. German Shepherd Shop discourages doing the following high-impact exercises with your pup. Prolonged games of fetch or tug of war Long hikes or walks Agility training that is not aged appropriately for your pup Sickness If your German Shepherd puppy is sick, he or she may sleep more to fight off the bad bacteria and viruses. If your puppy is acting differently and not as active as usual, take note of this for repeated occurrences. A common German Shepherd sickness is hip dysplasia which could lead to arthritis because of the continuous inflammation in the hips. Degenerative myelopathy, bloating, blood disorders, and epilepsy are also common health issues in German Shepherds. If your German Shepherd puppy continues to act abnormally than how he or usually behaves, schedule a visit with the veterinarian to be on the safe side. This breed naturally thrives better in colder climates and a high amount of heat outside or inside the house can cause more sleepiness. In the summer, be sure the air conditioner is at a comfortable temperature so your puppy feels comfortable. Consider placing a waterproof dog mat or bed and a dog bowl of water at this area for your pup to stay properly cool and hydrated. If your puppy loves the snow during winter, only give him or her a few minutes of snowy playtime so they do not get hypothermia. Your Pup is Bored Naturally, boredom leads to sleeping more. Refer to German Shepherd Corner for some of the best toys for German Shepherds to get ideas of what toys to get for your curious pup. Purchase a few toys as a start and observe your pup. Does he or she like to chew, tug, or fetch more? Maybe get one toy each that encourages these activities and see which toy your German Shepherd puppy loves most. Once you have figured that out, you can stock up on their favorite toy for when the original one becomes worn out. Related Posts.

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! We are overjoyed for you! Golden Retrievers are one of the most friendly and loving breeds…and lucky for you, one of the easiest to train. Golden Retrievers require a great deal of mental stimulation to avoid going about on their own or becoming frustrated. Their love for food is infinite. Prerequisites for training my Golden Retriever puppy? What age can I start to train my Golden Retriever puppy? Sounds like a good deal! We can only hope. What do I need to train my Golden Retriever? Say bye to that sticky, meaty feeling in your fingertips. A piece of non-slip vet bed or a soft mat: For a cosy bed, warm nights, and good dreams. Treats: The more smelly, the better. Two identical toys : Great for swaps! The name says it all…your Golden Retriever puppy will love retrieving, so identical toys will be great for all the games we have in store for you in the Zigzag Puppy training app. Of course, Golden Retrievers grow to be big dogs. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? A golden retriever needs 2 hours of exercise a day. What age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? Golden Retrievers reach adulthood at 3 years of age and are seniors by 8 years old. Though their height has been reached, their weight will still fill out and they will continue to mentally mature. What are Golden Retrievers bred for? Distinctly British, the 1st Baron of Tweedmouth developed the breed crossing his golden coloured retrieving dog Nous with a Tweed Water Spaniel — these look similar to Irish Water Spaniels. The cross resulted in a dog that was comfortable being on land and water kind of like crocodiles , and robust enough to hunt goose, partridge and even deer. Do Golden Retrievers make good family pets? In fact, Golden Retrievers are one of the most loved dog breeds in the UK. The Kennel Club has a lot more good information and info about them. What does this have to do with how I train my Golden Retriever puppy? But there is a logic as to why knowing the context might help you train your Golden Retriever better: Golden Retrievers love to work. Commonly employed as Guide Dogs, they love having a job to do, which means they will adore training. Anyhow, they will be a breeze to train. They will also do almost anything for your soft words and approval — your praise will work just as well as treats. Because they are so gentle, they are a great fit for families with a variety of lifestyles and ages. They need a good amount of exercise; mental as well as physical. Let us rephrase — a hefty amount of exercise. Besides you and food, being in water is what they love the most! They have a very strong sense of smell, so retrieving or scent work games tend to be the biggest treat for most. Golden Retrievers are the social butterflies of dogs. They love most people, and are not discreet in showing it. You know how us Brits can be about politeness. That being said, make sure you also teach them the wonders of giving things up. It can lead to great things! But it can also be less helpful when they give you a love bite on your arm — give them a toy to carry instead. Shift to some play, and revisit training later — we want training to be associated with fun, and not something they begin to dread. Trooper is nearly a full 2 pounds lighter than his bro, Patriot. When we volunteered as fosters our German Shepherd mix litter from 10 years ago had a lot more variety. By the end of week 8, I had them completely weaned off of mama we were feeding these youngsters mostly solid foods by week 7. We let the food sit for about 10 minutes and then mush it up for easier digestion. Many moons ago we did a short write-up about deer antlers for dogs, wondering if it was a good chew toy for dogs. Be sure to check out the comment thread. Golden Retriever puppy and his deer antler. You can see some of the teeth marks in the upper left corner of the photo. We had a full and half door for our whelping box and by this stage, our little pups could easily escape the half wall. By the time week 8 rolled around a couple of these pups were escaping the full-sized door! I found this photo interesting because from left to right only puppy number 2 is not blurry. Our little puppies have become curious, mischievous, adventurous, and are now little explorers. They are almost ready for their new homes. So that concludes week 7 with these Golden babies! Just in case you missed one of our weeks take a look at our recap: Week 1 — Six Golden Retriever puppies are born! Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — This is Week 7! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. What do you think? Have you ever experienced raising a little of puppies? If so, tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Back in the day we volunteered with Cuddly Canines and fostered several dogs and litters of puppies through them. A great DVD and workbook that teaches what you need to do when raising a litter of puppies Are you about to pick up a seven-week-old Golden puppy? This book will give you a solid foundation for raising and training a puppy. Our litter of Golden Retriever puppies week seven. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

When you mix a husky with a bulldog, you get a mixed breed called a Buskdoggy. What are these dogs like? Are they a good fit for your family? Are they prone to health problems? How much do they cost? What is a bulldog husky mix? Bulldog husky mixes or Buskdoggy are wonderful family dogs and great with kids. They are a patient, loving dog that is inherited from its line of loyal dog breeds. This mix can be stubborn. One word of caution though, the bulldog husky mix is prone to health issues. The tough part about trying to explain the nature of a mixed dog breed is most mixed dog breeds come from two completely different breeds. This means your bulldog husky mix might have more husky or bulldog in them. This guide describes the most common personality traits in a bulldog husky mix. They are excellent guard dogs, but their overprotective nature can lead to reactivity towards unfamiliar dogs. Since Buskdoggies are mixed with huskies, they sometimes have a tendency to howl. Both breeds are pack animals. If you travel a lot or go on a lot of long vacations, you might want to rethink adopting a Buskdoggy. Uncovering the Facts Many husky bulldog mixes end up inheriting a long, thick, fly-away coat from the husky side. Knowing how to properly groom your Buskydoggy will help keep your house tidy as they shed. If your husky bulldog mix ends up inheriting a short, flat coat, then you get the bonus of a cute dog with less shedding! While a husky bulldog mix is widely praised and sought after, if you are a beginner dog owner, you might find your hands full with this breed. Buskydoggies are known for being gentle, loyal, loving, playful, and good with children. However, they can be pretty destructive if left to their own devices. Bulldogs and huskies are extremely different when it comes to their exercise needs. Huskies are one of the most active breeds and need consistent, high-impact exercise. Huskies have a lot of energy because they were initially bred for pulling sleds and working long days. Bulldogs, on the other hand, despite being originally bred to bait bulls, are some of the laziest dogs in the canine world. If your husky bulldog mix has more husky in them, then your Buskydoggy needs your commitment to a regular exercise schedule. The rule of thumb is to go on two walks a day and schedule some playtime either at home or at the park. Both breeds also have a habit of overheating. If you get a husky bulldog mix breed, then make sure to watch them in the hot sun and at mealtimes. Speaking of bad habits, huskies are also known for being little escape artists that can leap over a fence in a single bound or dig a hole underneath when that proves futile. If your heart is set on owning a husky bulldog mix, then just make sure your backyard is a fortress against an intelligent Buskdoggy. In fact, bulldogs are among the most expensive dogs to adopt, buy, and own. If you do decide to adopt or rescue a dog instead of buying a puppy , then the cost is going to be a lot cheaper. After you buy your husky bulldog mix puppy, there will be other associated costs that can be expected. A generalized list of some expenses to expect are as follows: Bulldog Service and Supplies. Statistics compiled by the American Veterinary Medical Association estimated that 53 percent of all dogs living in U. Of that number, however, few are as likely to be as cute and cuddly as Finn, the 9-month-old French bulldog-husky mix, or "French bullsky" as his owner calls him. Currently making waves on Instagram as part of a doggy duo posting under the handle adventuresoffinnandatlas, Finn is the result of an illicit canine love affair. The vets said that it sometimes happens, and it doesn't diminish his quality of life, so we kept his tail the way that it was. One clip on TikTok revealing exactly what a cross between a husky and a French bulldog has proven particularly popular, with fans flocking to comment on Finn's adorable appearance. In March, dog lovers were stunned after discovering what a pug and a greyhound mix looked like. Another blend of a Golden Retriever and a Spaniel also turned heads online thanks to their adorably furry features. Then there's Finnagen, the pup whose mother is a golden retriever and dad is a Bernese mountain dog. Finn the bullsky is the result of an illicit meeting between a husky and a French bulldog. We want to see the best ones! Send them in to life newsweek. Read more. As the dire wolves on the TV screen interested viewers, so did the demand for these artic dogs. Consequently, they have a thick double coat that protects them from the weather. Their pointing ears and long canines give them a wolf-like look , which further draws in enthusiasts of the wild. They weigh between 35 to 60 pounds with a height of 20 to 24 inches. Also, they are friendly pooches. Although they have the severe looks that can scare an intruder, Huskies are poor watchdogs and guard dogs. They have no reservation against strangers and would rather get acquainted than attack. Training is for the firm, experienced leader. One may wonder why breeders opted to mix these dogs, though the crossing did produce intriguing offspring. Unfortunately, it has a fighting past as it was used in the bloody sports of bull-baiting. After the Second World War, this breed almost got extinct. It was saved by some breeders and is now a popular feature in many homes. This bulldog is stockier than the Husky with shorter legs and a thicker head. They also have a shorter, single coat. They weigh 60 to pounds with a height of 20 to 28 inches. This dog breed makes a good companion because of its friendly nature and affection towards family members. It is common in many American families and has made its way to popular shows, including the character Spike in Tom and Jerry. Popular dogs like the American Bulldog get poorly bred, so it is more likely to get one with health problems and behavioral issues. You just be extra diligent when getting a Bulldog or any Bulldog mix. Huskies once saved a town Besides having popular parents, our designer doggy friend also has a heroic parent. The Siberian Husky once played a vital role in the survival of an Alaskan town named Nome. This happened in , during a diphtheria outbreak that threatened the people in Nome, especially children. With air transport being impossible, sled dogs were used to deliver serum to the town. Amongst these sled dogs, there was Togo, who was praised for traveling miles. There are no uniform standards for appearance, size, or temperament. The best way to know how is to observe the parents. Some of these designer dogs will look and act like the Bulldog, others will favor the Husky. The third group will rest on the fence and blend traits. The mixed breed is energetic and love space Regardless of which parent dominates more in a particular offspring, it has energy and needs regular exercise to be okay. The Bulldog needs less than the Husky, so the hybrid may fall in between. This also means it does better in a house that has a yard. While this breed can relax indoors after an exercise, it is not a good choice for apartment dwellers. It is scarce The Husky Bulldog mix is not easily found, and it is not the first option people will look out for when they want either a Husky mix or a Bulldog mix. It takes some work to locate one of these dogs. You should be ready to see many differences in look, even from puppies of the same litter. The hybrid can either be with slim legs and long ears like the Husky or have the stocky build of the Bulldog. Usually, you may find a combination of both, giving you a dog with the looks of a Husky but the body of a Bulldog. Size Like appearance, size is also determined by the parents. This makes it a medium to a large-sized dog breed, and some of these dogs will be bigger than others. This is a major reason why you need a wide space to own this mix. Apartment dwellers will do better with a smaller, calmer pooch. Colors and Coat Type The wide difference between the parents is also evident in the coat type. There may be no middle ground in coat type, so a mix may have a thick double coat or a lighter single coat. They have a potpourri of colors to choose from. These include black and white, brindle, fawn, gray and white, red. Having parents free of behavioral problems will give the offspring a better chance of being a well-mannered puppy. To ascertain traits your particular mixed dog will have, understand the personality of the parents. The Siberian Husky is notably friendlier than the Bulldog, even extending it towards strangers. Bulldogs have a guard dog wariness towards strangers and may be territorial in their bid to protect their families. The mix may either be accepting or reserved for strangers. The courage makes them brave, but do not let your pet get into a fight with another canine. That would be encouraging aggressive behavior. Realted: In addition, the designer breed may be stubborn and sometimes show independent thinking. This is common in both parent breeds. That said, you need to be a veteran pet parent to handle this breed. Overall, this breed makes a valuable companion. Regardless of what traits it gets from its parents, it turns out to be a good pet and worker when well trained. The Husky Bulldog has parents who have both proven themselves as good family dogs, so it has a good path to follow. A good buddy of adults and a playmate of kids, this mix integrate well into household settings. The environment, lifestyle, and experience of the owners influence the choice of this crossbreed. The relationship of this mixed breed with other dogs is complex. While the Husky parent is a pack dog who enjoys canine company, the Bulldog is territorial and may even get aggressive towards dogs. Introduce the mix slowly to other dogs and gauge its reaction. Its high prey drive may make it a poor choice for homes with cats and other smaller pets. They inherit a decent amount of their physical appearance from both parent breeds. Depending on the inherited genetics, your Husky Bulldog mix may have a face like the American Bulldog — with its smooshed nose and bat-ears — high-set, triangular shape, and pointing outwards. However, your Husky Bulldog mix may also inherit the physical appearance of a Husky, with a long snout, black nose, and triangular ears that point upwards. Being an active breed, you can expect your Bulldog Husky mix to inherit the endurance of a Siberian Husky, with muscular and powerful hindquarters resembling that of the Husky. In contrast, it may have the chest of an American Bulldog. This highly energetic breed is well sought-after among designer dog breeds because of its physical prowess. Buy Now Disclaimer — This website uses affiliate links and gets a small commission at no additional cost to you. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. Since the outlawing, the Old English Bulldog was preserved by new immigrants to the United States shortly after , who would go on crossbreed English Bulldog mixes that would maintain the breed, renaming it the American Bulldog. The American Bulldog has a slightly different physical appearance from its English progenitor. This includes body length and overall physical activity levels. As the name might suggest, the American Bulldog is a very popular dog within the United States, first brought over shortly after and recognized as a breed in .Given their popularity, the American Bulldog is clearly seen by American society as a great dog for almost any owner. Despite being small and somewhat frumpy, Bulldogs still require plenty of exercise. Bulldogs also make great family pets, as they are generally gentle and good with children and other pets. How Did Bulldogs Come About? The Old English Bulldog would eventually become extinct, making way for the American Bulldog to become popular in the New World after Americans bred their English Bulldog immigrant pets. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in .American Bulldogs are also named differently to the French Bulldog, which has a much different history than their American counterpart. The detailed history of crossbreeding the American Bulldog to create an American Bulldog mix is a little sketchy. We are still determining when the first mixed-breed American Bulldog was made, what it was crossed with, or by whom. Crossbreeding became popular in the United States in the s and early s. Popular Bulldog crossbreeds include:. This dog is a high energy dog with a lot of love and affection. This is a big dog with an even bigger heart. They are incredibly loyal and love to play. But do they also make a good family pet? The Siberian Husky, Samoyed, and the Alaskan Malamute are all breeds directly descended from the original sled dog. The descending breeds were once found throughout the northern hemisphere. Dogs from the Anadyr River and surrounding areas were imported from Alaska in to be used as sled dogs during the gold rush. Huskies helped entire tribes. Byrd brought about fifty Siberian Huskies with him on an expedition. Today the Husky ranks at number twelve with the American Kennel Club. The term Bulldog was mentioned in literature around as Bondogge and Bolddogge. The modern term was first mentioned in by a man named Preswick Eaton. Over the centuries, dogs used for bull baiting developed stocky bodies and bigger heads and jaws. This also made them grow a savage and ferocious temperament. The Husky Bulldog mix is a combination of these two breeds. You can find information all over the internet about purebred dogs and mutts. Which one is right for you? Some people believe that mutts are better than purebred dogs, due to them being healthier with longer lifespans and lower incidence of disease. Although mutts seem to suffer more from infectious diseases at the time of adoption, since more purebreds are purchased than adopted. Statistically speaking, mixes win out. Bulldogs have a jaw strength of psi. Huskies can change their metabolism. A team of Huskies saved an entire town by delivering a medical serum to Nome, Alaska in the midst of a diphtheria outbreak. They come in various colors and patterns, usually with white paws and legs. The most common coat is black and white. Other colors are copper-red and white, gray and white, and pure white. Huskies stand anywhere from eighteen to twenty-four inches tall, weighing in around thirty-five to sixty pounds. They have a long nose and big ears. Unlike the Bulldog, Huskies have a long thick coat of fur, whereas the Bulldog has a shorter flat coat. The Bulldog characteristically has a wide head, loose skin, and broad shoulders. The color coat on the Bulldog can vary from red, fawn, white, brindle, and piebald. This dog weighs, on average, fifty to fifty-five pounds and stands around fourteen to fifteen inches tall. Mixed breeds are a random assortment of their parents. Because of this, mixed breeds can look evenly like both parents, mostly like one, or anywhere between. It should not be vicious or aggressive. Despite this, Bulldogs can be aggressive towards other dogs. Bulldogs can be stubborn and impatient. The Bulldog tends to be cooperative and intelligent. They generally get along well with children and families. They instinctively are protective animals so that they can make a good guard dog. The Husky howls rather than barks and has been described as an escape artist. If they have been raised in a family setting, they are usually gentle with children. Huskies tend to have very high energy and can be destructive without proper care. They also are very outgoing, intelligent, and friendly. The Husky also tends to be adventurous and playful. Due to their intelligence, they tend to cooperate and listen very well. Lastly, the Husky is quite alert and intelligent. Mixing the Husky with the Bulldog can produce a dog with any of these traits. Training Your Husky Bulldog Mix One of the first steps in training your pet is making sure you house train them. This will prevent any unwanted accidents in the house. Crate training your Husky Bulldog is a great idea if they are experiencing any kind of separation anxiety or just trying to get used to a new environment. Exercise is a huge role in training any puppy. The Husky Bulldog needs at least forty minutes of exercise each day. Taking them on two daily walks will give them plenty of exercises and will get them on a healthy bathroom schedule. These scheduled walks will also mean fewer accidents in the house. This breed tends to be a little stubborn, so treats can aid in the training process. The Bulldog has a tendency to overheat. If this happens, you can hose them down or apply an ice pack or wet towel to them. Use cool water, not ice water. This will keep from constricting their blood vessels and a loss of blood flow. Husky Bulldog Mix Health One of the most common health problems with Huskies is cataracts , affecting around ten percent of the breed. This can lead to blindness later on. Another health issue with the Husky is hip dysplasia. This is very common in Huskies and can lead to severe changes in the hip joint. Luckily, this disorder can be detected by an X-ray. Bulldogs do not live very long. Before You Go Bulldog and husky mix sounds a little interesting to me but is it the right choice for you? The bulldog and husky mix-breeds are called as Buskdoggy. You might have further doubts like how will the bulldog and husky mix look? Will they be good for the family? Are they expensive? I know it is confusing to own a bulldog and husky mix breed. Buskdoggy is very, very different from each other too. What exactly are bulldog and husky mix? The bulldog and husky mixes get a lot of good as well as bad qualities from their breed. These busk doggies are great with kids and wonderful family dogs. They are affectionate, patient, and loyal dogs. They can stubborn but can be made obedient while training. They can make excellent watchdogs. One important warning is that the bulldog and husky mixes can be prone to many health problems but can be figured out by looking at the pedigree of their parents. It is very tough to explain their nature in the mixed breeds as they come from two very different breeds. As a result, Bulldog and husky mixes will either be a lot like huskies or like bulldogs. They can have very distinct behavior as well as personalities. As far as dogs are concerned , they are also different individuals. They also might develop something different that is not in their genetics. Let me point out few of the advantages and disadvantages of getting a bulldog and husky mix. This will determine whether you are ready to own a buskdoggy. There are multiple pros and cons of owning a bulldog and husky mix breed dog. They inherit both the good and bad qualities of their respective breeds. Whatever the inherit will depend on your dog. You cannot decide which qualities they are going to get from their breeds. See also Are Dogs Allergic to Pineapple? The Truth Revealed Best Guide Bulldogs and huskies are pack animals, which means they love to be with their pack. But, you can also train your bulldog and husky mix to stay alone; however, you should not leave this breed dogs alone for long. The huskies especially do not bark; instead, they howl. The howling can disturb your neighbors a lot, and it can also be a serious issue if you have strict neighbors. If you are a person who travels most of the time, I suggest reconsidering getting this breed. Bulldogs and husky mix crave a lot of human attention and love to be around family. The bulldog and husky mixes usually inherit a long and thick coat from the husky side. These coats look gorgeous, but they also need a lot of sweeping, vacuuming, and even finding dog hair in their cereal bowl while they are shedding. For more info about how huskies shed, click here. To ease your cleaning, I recommend getting Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush and use it to brush your dogs at once, so you may not find hair everywhere. On the other side, if your bulldog and husky mix dog ends up getting the flat and short coat from the bulldog side, then rejoice as they do not shed a lot and have a very cute look. You are saved from all the vacuuming stuff. This bulldog and husky mix breed are praised a lot, and people are also looking to get one. However, if you are new with dogs, you may find yourself involved with them all the time. This crossbreed is famous for being playful, gentle, loyal, and very good with kids. On the contrary, they can also be quite destructive and stubborn, especially making the training sessions hard. When it comes to exercise, bulldogs and huskies are very different. The huskies require a huge amount of exercise as compared to bulldogs. Even though the Bulldogs were initially bred for bull-baiting stuff, they tend to be very lazy. While we talk about huskies, they were bred originally to pull sleds and work longs days due to which they have a lot of energy inside them. On the contrary, if they have more of a husky side in your mixed breed, then you must give them their due excersing by playing with them or take them outside for walks. So what you can do this take your dog out for walks twice a day so they can socialize too. And make a routine for their playtime either at the park or even at home is fine. Both huskies and bulldogs overheat a lot, so you need to take care of your bulldog and husky mix while they are out in the sun. They love to stay in a cooler environment. Talking about bad habits, the huskies are very much known for escaping from their space. So, these were the major and the most common pros and cons of getting a bulldog and husky mix breed dog. If you get one, accept them with all your heart with all their qualities. I will be very clear and straight forward with you; bulldog and husky mix-breeds are very expensive breeds. Above that, owning, buying, or even adopting the bulldogs is very expensive. Instead of buying, you can also adopt or rescue a dog; it will be a lot cheaper. But, it is believed that the rescue dogs and the dogs up for adoption have more health problems. Once you buy the bulldog and husky mix breed , there are many expenses associated with them. These dogs have some specific necessities that must be fulfilled. You will have to take them for an initial medical examination, and then you will have to get them spayed or neutered. Other basic requirements of getting a dog include getting a dog crate , collar, tags, and leash.

Want to share this? Labrador Retrievers are everywhere, and everybody enjoys their company. Ask most dog owners what breed their first dog was and many of them will say their first dog was a black Lab, chocolate Lab, or golden Lab. In celebration of this amazing breed, we've put together a list of 20 fun and interesting statistics about this breed. Newfoundland — the home of original Labrador Retrievers. They were originally called St. They have been bred with many other breeds in order to give other breeds some of Labrador Retrievers' fantastic easygoing temperament and athletic skills. In the s in Newfoundland families had to pay a tax if they owned a dog. And they were only allowed to own one dog. Female dogs were taxed higher, so many breeders got rid of female puppies because the tax on them cost more. Thankfully the Lab was such a popular hunting dog in the United Kingdom that the breed managed to thrive there. They were bred to be water-loving dogs and even have webbed feet to make it easier for them to swim. But their biggest advantage in the water is their coat. Labrador Retrievers have a double coat that insulates them from the water and keeps them from getting cold even in cold water and colder weather. All the water just skims off that double coat making them dry fast too. Labs have been the most popular dog in America for nearly a quarter of a century. Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dogs in America because they are so adaptable as well as many of these Labrador Retriever facts mentioned below. Labs can thrive as farm dogs, working dogs, security dogs, or as family pets. The NPR covered this story , and how the Governor had the dog thrown in jail for murder. The dog was given life without parole for the death of the cat and was sentenced to Eastern State Penitentiary where he lived for 10 years. There are also Silver Labs , which are really gray. And there are Red Labs which are a reddish-brown color. Originally, Labs Were Bred for Fishing One of the more interesting Labrador Retriever facts is that these dogs were bred to assist fishermen when they were catching fish. Labradors are natural athletes and working dogs that became popular family pets. They may not be the fastest dog breed on the planet, but they're relatively fast anyway and can reach a speed of 12 miles per hour in just three seconds. Puppies in the same litter can be Black, Chocolate or Yellow. After the visit by the friendly stray they named the song after this black Labrador Retriever. That simply means they have the right body type to be show dogs. A Black Lab Became a Mayor While one Lab was jailed, on the opposing side of Labrador Retriever's world spectrum, in the state of California, in a small town of Sunol, a black Lab ran for mayor, and won! But the dog was much more popular with the voting public than any of the other candidates. There are several reasons why Labs make the best guard dogs. They have a great easy going personality. They are eager to please. And they like to work. They are also loyal, not aggressive, and can learn quickly. That makes Labs the ideal breed to be trained to help people. One of the most recent discoveries science has made is that Labradors can use their exceptional sniffing skills to detect illness in the human body. Labs can sniff out cancer and other diseases. They can also tell when an epileptic is about to have a seizure. And they can snap into action to calm down a person with PTSD that is having a flashback or panic attack. Labradors are Still Used as Working Dogs Labradors may be the most popular family dog in America but they are also still very popular working dogs. They work on farms herding cattle. Labs also work as service dogs. They are still used for hunting. There are many jobs that Labs can do better than other breeds and they really like to work. They are Outstanding Search-and-Rescue Dogs Labrador Retriever facts list are full of outstanding abilities of this breed, and that still continues. Labs are the absolute best breed of dog to be used for search and rescue operations. They have an amazing sense of smell, and they can work on any type of terrain or in any environment. Their natural abilities combined with their desire to please and their love of people make them the perfect choice for search and rescue dogs. But what makes them the ideal family dog is their temperament. Labs are very social dogs. They love to be around people and be in the thick of things socially. They are good with other dogs and love children. All these traits make them the perfect family dog. The military mourned for the lost dog. But over a year later the dog found an American soldier and went right to him. After figuring out that the dog knew military commands the American military realized the dog was the missing Australian dog and returned the dog to the Australian military. Labs Put Everything in Their Mouths If you have a Lab or have ever had a Lab you probably know already that they will put everything and anything into their mouths. Over the years Labs have been bred to have an usually large mouth precisely because they use it so often in their assigned tasks as hunting dogs and other working dogs. But they are always gentle and rarely put things in their mouths to bite or tear. The Lab is just doing what it was bred to do. Let us know in the comments below so we can continue being proud of this breed walking among us! Related Articles. You can see why Labradors Retrievers are a popular family pet choice. They are just as comfortable on the couch as they are bounding around with their endless energy. There is a lot to love about the Labrador Retriever. Read on to learn more about this breed with these fast facts. They originated from Newfoundland, working with fisherman off the coast of Canada. In some parts of the world, silver is promoted as a colour, but not in Australia. More than one colour of puppy can potentially occur in the same litter and their colours are determined genetically. Did you know that chocolate and black labradors coats match their nose colour? Popular pets Labradors came to Australia in and they are one of the most popular dog breeds in Australia and in many countries around the world, such as Canada, Israel, New Zealand, United Kingdom and United States. Smart animals Labradors are highly trainable and fast learners, so get them into puppy school as soon as you can! They love to please their owners, which is one of the main reasons they are selected as therapy and rescue dogs. They are also the most common breed of guide dog in Australia, United States and many other countries. Love eating Labradors have an endless appetite, so keep those snacks out of reach! They will try to eat just about anything that smells like food. It is very important to exercise a Labrador as they are prone to obesity as a result. Built for swimming Labradors are famous for their love of water. They initially helped fisherman by fetching nets and rope and retrieving fish from the sea. They swim with their large webbed feet and use their flattened, otter like tail for balance and to steer while swimming. They also have a thick double layer coat that blocks out water and keeps them warm. Fast runners Have you ever tried to race your Labrador? You might find they can outrun you. The average Labrador can hit a running speed of around 19km per hour in roughly three seconds! Puppies at heart Labradors mature at around three years of age and are known for their puppy like energy and enthusiasm before this time and sometimes beyond too. Whilst they may be constantly stopping to smell everything when you take them for a walk, it can also be used for positive things. They make great detectives, which is why they often work for the navy, military and police forces. They have a reputation for being even tempered and make an excellent family dog. They love to play and could fetch a ball or frisbee for hours. They are often very easy going and trusting with strangers, so are not usually suitable as guard dogs. What a clever dog! Post by: Mara B. These dogs had black coats, sometimes white crests on their chests, and white feet. Portraits of them look like a cross between a modern Lab and a Border Collie. Like Labradors, the Newfoundland breed had webbed toes, a two-layered, water-repellent coat, and a strong, broad tail that works like a rudder in the water, making it a superb swimmer. The Labrador Retriever has grown to be the most popular dog breed in America. The fishermen found that these dogs had great endurance and strength, so some used them to tow barges. For a while, these trusty fishing dogs waned in popularity in Canada due to a tax imposed on dog owners. Fortunately, British travelers coming to port decided to bring the dogs to England. The breed was refined by English hunters to be better suited for retrieving game and named the Labrador Retriever. Since the 20th century, the Labrador Retriever has grown to be the most popular dog breed in America. Physical Traits of a Labrador Retriever Labs have thick, sturdy bodies, broad heads, and long, otter-like tails that help them to steer themselves in the water. Their webbed toes make for better paddling and keep snow from clumping up between them. They grow to be between 21 and 24 inches at the highest part of their back and may weigh pounds. Labs have an inner coat that is thick and soft to protect their skin from wetness and cold temperatures. Their special double coat makes them waterproof! Labrador Retrievers may be black, chocolate, or yellow, and all colors can appear in a single litter. The nose of the dog will match its coat. Labs usually have brown eyes. The exception to this is that some Chocolate Labs have hazel eyes. The Labrador Retriever Personality Labradors are known for their gentleness, tolerance, and intelligence. Their easy-going nature is what makes them the top choice as American family dogs. They are generally very good with kids and other canines. Of course, being completely adorable probably contributes to their popularity too! As natural hunters, Labs are also known to be active and love exploring. Regular exercise is a great way to let out some of their energy and help them maintain a healthy weight. With lots of playtime and proper training, even high-energy Labs can be calm and obedient. A coat cleaning every once in a while will help it look shinier and healthier. Labs tend to pack on extra pounds quickly if they are sedentary or overfed. Obesity is one of the most common health issues for Labradors, and hypothyroidism and diabetes are also not uncommon for the breed. When a dog becomes overweight, exercise can be tough on their joints and cause them pain. Moderating their treats and making sure to measure the proper amounts of food at mealtime are other ways to keep their weight in check. You can also opt for dog-safe fruits and veggies as an alternative to higher-calorie, processed treats. Labs are also known to develop cataracts and have troubles with their hips, knees, elbows, and shoulders. Annual and wellness exams for these doggies should include check-ups on their eyes and joints. Important wellness procedures can be covered by a dog insurance plan. Start a quote for your best friend. Great Games for Labs Try doing these activities with your Labrador Retriever for fun and exercise rolled into one! Go Fetch! These natural retrievers love to chase after toys and bring them back — in the yard or the water! Balls, rope toys, ring toys, Frisbees, and dummies will all work well for a game of fetch. Take them to the beach, a lake, a pond, or a backyard pool and let them paddle around. Playing a game of fetch or chase in the shallow waters near shore can also be lots of fun. Just to be safe, you may want to investigate purchasing a dog life jacket. Nose work, or scent work, involves hiding objects marked with various scents for your dog to track. The activity can be especially stimulating for Labrador Retrievers because of their natural drive to hunt, but any breed of dog may enjoy it. How to teach your Lab to do nose work: Get scents. Essential oils like anise, birch, and clover are great choices for nose work. You can douse the object with the oil or inject the scent using a special syringe called a scent injector, which you should be able to find at your local sporting goods store, or online. Choose the mark. Dummies work great for essential oils. Get a few and douse each one with a different smell! You can use plush dog toys, pieces of cloth, or strips of leather for scent marking too. It can also be fun to leave a scent trail to the objects. To do this, drag the scent-marked objects along the ground leading up to their hiding place, or squeeze some drops of essential oil on the way to the chosen hiding spot.

Training is a constant process for our dogs and when they are not training, they are chasing a variety of wild game from Upland to Waterfowl. Our retrievers are no different with passion, loyalty and intelligence. This means less shedding, a bit more shine yet still soft to the touch. Typically weighing lbs, these Goldens are not the behemoth Goldens you may have seen in the past. Meet Your Perfect Match Family pet. Hunting partner. Loyal companion. Platte River Retrievers has been offering quality field bred Golden Retrievers for over 25 years in Nebraska, just outside of Omaha. We specialize in Golden Retrievers bred to excel in the field. All clearances are done on our dogs before breeding and puppies are guaranteed for 26 months. Litters are raised in a family atmosphere ensuring the best possible upbringing and personality for your future companion. Eyes, Heart, Hips, Elbows as well as DNA recessive gene disorder clearances are done to ensure the health and standard for each litter bred. Microchip Registration Have peace of mind that your pet has permanent identification in the event of being lost or stolen. Socialization Socialization is a crucial component of raising a well mannered dog that is a good citizen. Each puppy is given age appropriate stimulation individually and in group play. Age Appropriate Vaccinations All puppies are given age appropriate vaccinations and deworming to ensure you are bringing home a happy and healthy puppy. Health Guarantee We stand behind our breedings and offer a written health guarantee for each puppy. Range of Personalities Just as every litter produced is different, each puppy is a unique individual in that litter. View the temperament and size of the parents to ensure that this is what you are looking for in your future puppy. He is healthy, highly athletic, wonderful with people and extremely intuitive in all aspects. We live in California and are active individuals; therefore, he goes hiking, running and swimming in the lake on a regular basis. In July of , after weeks of playing with each of the puppies in that years litter, I picked out Maple. I knew that was the breeder I wanted to get a pup from. Theresa and Nick know their dogs in and out.I am blown away with my pup Gretta! She has excellent drive, and loves to train. You truly can't beat the temperament and ability that is stamped on these pups! Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Omaha Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Omaha? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Omaha? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. She gladly answered all of our questions and was quick to respond. It was very obvious she loves her dogs and the puppies, taking such good care of them their first 8 weeks. Our boy Sawyer has just the best personality and disposition. He took to his big brother, our 5 year old Golden Auggie, day one and they've been inseparable since. Couldn't ask for a better pup! I'm very pleased with our experience and purchase from Lori. She was honest and very caring and concerned for our purchase of one of her puppies. Hank the retriever has become a very vital part of our lives as we have four children and two other dogs in our home. The quality of Hank's demeanor and attitude is unlike anything we have experienced with our other dogs. Hank is very smart and healthy 8 month old now. Potty training was relatively easy and fast with minimal accidents. We currently work with obedience training and off leash training for Hank. It is very rewarding to start with a quality and healthy puppy that has endless possibilities for our family. The only regret I have is not buying Hank's brother when I had the opportunity. Like most golden owners we knew that when it comes to a companion dog, there is simply not a better breed. After communicating with a variety of people that had puppies for sale, we linked up with Lori McCoy. From the start we felt that she was the type of breeder we were comfortable working with for such an important life changing decision. We have had our newest family member, Fin, now for about 6 months and couldn't be happier. He is a beautiful mix of the red American and white English variety of golden. He is very confident, very trainable and highly intelligent. Our sincerest appreciation to Lori for helping connect us with Fin. We are dedicated to providing the healthiest and happiest Golden Retrievers possible and are determined to give back to the breed that we love so much!

Pug Dog Colors Overview Pugs can be found in four major colors, though not all are standard colors with certain kennel clubs. The two most common colors are fawn and black. Silver and apricot can also be seen with this breed, and while not standard colors per the AKC, these colors are indeed recognized by the FCI and other kennel clubs. Brindle Pugs do exist, though this is not without some controversy. All non-black Pugs have black masks and black ears. There are some unique color markings that can appear on Pugs which include the trace and the thumbprint, found only on non-black Pugs. This section will cover all of the details regarding Pug colors, both standard and alternate, as well as various markings and other color-related elements. But, of course, since other colors exist, an AKC Pug can be silver also known as silver-fawn , apricot also known as apricot-fawn , or even the rare and controversial brindle. If you have a Pug with a non-standard color silver-fawn, apricot, or even brindle , as of the time of this writing, if you register your Pug via postal mail not online and send in photos of your Pug that clearly shows the non-standard coat, the AKC will usually grant you a registration with the appropriate color or pattern listed as an alternate color. Though a Pug of any color can be registered, this does not mean the color is accepted in the show ring. For AKC conformation events, any color other than fawn or black is a disqualification. It should be noted that the AKC, which follows the guidelines set forth by the Pug Dog Club of America, used to accept both silver and apricot-fawn. If you are in the US, where most Pugs are either fawn or black, keep in mind that owners from 27 countries took part in the survey. Other well-recognized kennel clubs such as the FCI and KC make this much easier, since they accept apricot and silver coat colors in the show ring. And, the CKC allows distinction between fawn and sliver, by having 'silver-fawn' as an option. With these clubs, fawn is a light to medium cream. However, because the AKC will register a fawn as a fawn and an apricot or a silver as a fawn because they are non-black Pugs , but can also grant a registration for an apricot or silver to be as such via an alternate color, an AKC fawn Pug may truly be a fawn ranging from light cream to medium cream or technically be a silver or apricot more ahead on these colors. All non-black Pugs, including fawn, have black ears and black masks more ahead on this. Variances: Fawns are not always solid, there are variances in the coat. Many Pugs have a trace which is a stripe of back-tipped hairs running down the back that break up the fawn color. And, it is not uncommon for two shades of fawn to be seen within one coat; for example, a light cream fawn can blend into a light apricot-fawn. The wrinkles on a Pug are also responsible for color variances since a thumbprint may be present which is black fur in the creases and folds of the forehead. AKC Color Disqualification: Though fawn has a range of light to medium, the AKC does make it clear that anything other than fawn or black is a disqualification in the show ring. This refers to not only what the registration papers say but by what color is seen in person during the competition. Since there is sometimes a blurred line between silver and fawn or apricot and fawn, this can make things tricky. These colors are found all throughout the world, but in the US, show breeders focus on keeping the fawn a fawn without silver or apricot tones. Examples of Fawn Pugs: Dubi at 6 years old, a fawn Pug photo courtesy of Carmina Bautista Poppy, at 4 months old, a Pug with a combination of light and medium fawns photo courtesy of Maria Silver Fawn and Silver Overview: This is a color that is not overly common with Pugs; though, many owners of silver or silver fawn Pugs can easily be labeling their dogs as fawn, especially if that is what the registration papers state. Because, as the name implies, silver fawn is a type of fawn. It is very light and is in fact the lightest color that a Pug can be. The AKC does not recognize this as a standard color, but may grant a request for a silver-fawn Pug to be registered as such via an alternate color, and if so, generally only responds to requests that are sent via postal mail. Both the FCI and KC allow for silver and the CKC allows for silver-fawn; both are essentially the same coat color but are referred to with these different terms. With some other breeds, this sort of orange hue is referred to as fawn like with Boxers or as orange like with Pomeranians. But, with Pugs, this is a nice, shiny orange hue that is set apart from the more common fawn coat. It is very common for apricot Pugs to not be fully apricot; there may be some fawn or even an almost white color found in patches, most often on the chest. Though, just like silver or silver fawn, this is also a color that may be present in the coat, but owners refer to their Pugs as simply 'fawn', especially if that is what the registration papers deem the Pug to be. And, just like other non-standard AKC colors, an apricot Pug may be registered as a fawn or as an apricot if the owner requests for this alternate coloring to appear on the document. With the CKC, apricot is not its own color, but rather their definition of fawn includes all shades in the fawn family including light to deep apricot. Apricot Pugs have black masks and black ears. And, just like all non-black Pugs, a trace and a thumbprint are desired in the show ring of all well-recognized kennel clubs. Example of an Apricot Pug: Peggie, at 4 years old, a registered apricot Pug photo courtesy of Susi R Ludlow Black Pugs Overview: It is rather amazing how very different the two main colors of Pugs are; fawn is a very light cream with black ears and mask, and black Pugs are just about the complete opposite with a rich, dark black coat. Of course, the ears and mask are black too, but there is no discernible difference since the entire Pug is black. Many black Pugs have solid coats, but it is possible for there to be a small white marking; if this is present, it is usually on the chest. As Pugs age into their senior years, gray hairs may appear on the face or in different areas of the body and this is much more noticeable with black Pugs. Examples of Black Pugs: Henry, at 10 months old photo courtesy of Maxine Aird Pearl photo courtesy of Saz Race Wonder how much exercise Pugs need and how to keep activity safe for this brachycephalic breed? Check out Pug Dog Exercise. Brindle Pugs Overview: Brindle is a pattern of interlocking light and dark colors which creates a striping effect. With Pugs, this is typically in the grey to black range. This type of coat pattern is found with quite a few other dog breeds including the Bull Terrier, Boxer, and American Bulldog. The Debate: Many wonder if a purebred brindle Pug can even exist. The answer is yes. This said, there are some explanations to be given. On one hand is the argument that brindle does not exist within the Pug's bloodline. It is true that this is not a color pattern that should be seen with today's breeding programs since it is not a standard color. One of the goals of reputable breeders is to produce dogs that come as close to breed standards as possible. So, brindle is not something that most breeders would strive for and any champion dogs would not have recessive brindle genes. But, did brindle appear in the bloodline at some point in the past? The answer is, yes, it very well could have. This goes back, in part, to the fact that every single dog breed that exists to day was developed from the pairing of other breeds. As to which breeds, exactly, were used to develop the Pug is unknown. We know that this breed was developed in China. Somewhere around B. And he was indeed successful. Therefore, the first element to note is that no one can say if, looking back, brindle is or is not found in the Pug's bloodline. In fact, paintings from the 's show Pug dogs with brindle coats. This said, those brindle lines most likely died out. It has also been debated that brindle Pugs are a myth since the gene responsible for the pattern is dominant and would 'take over' the entire Pug breed with eventually only brindles existing, making fawns and black obsolete. But, that point is not accurate. Brindle exists in other breeds and does not take over. One example is the Boxer dog in which there are both brindles and fawns. So, if there are brindle Pugs, however rare, where does the brindle come from? The answer is that brindle was introduced into the bloodline via another breed at some point. For each individual Pug, this could be recent or it could be many generations in the past. This may seem contradictory. As time goes by, a random brindle is thrown every now and then. Examples of Brindle Pugs: Luna at 8 months old, a brindle Pug photo courtesy of Brenda photo courtesy of Mike Dillow Color Changes It is normal for a Pug puppy's coat to change coat color to a certain degree as he or she is maturing from pup to adolescent. With fawn Pugs, the coat may lighten or darken, predominately during the first year. It's not uncommon for there to be smuttiness at a young age which is the term for black hairs intermingled with a light color coat. This may remain, lighten, darken, or fade in other areas except for a line running down the center of the back which is known as a trace. The ears and mask may darken into a more solid black as a Pug grows. For example, here we see Yoda as a young puppy first photo below on mobile with a fawn base and lots of black hairs running through the coat referred to as smuttiness - details ahead. And, then we can see Yoda as a 3-year-old adult Pug second photo below on mobile , the fawn is much lighter and the black-tipped hairs are now a much more faded trace that runs down her back. The black mask has darkened and her head wrinkles are fully developed. There can be other color changes as well. Apricot tones may not appear until a Pug is a bit older; so, a Pug that is registered as a fawn may very well be an apricot. Another change that typically happens with black Pugs, but may also be seen on some fawns, is that hairs around the muzzle and face may gray as a Pug transitions into the senior years. If this occurs, it is generally starts around the 8 year mark and increases in time. Wondering how much sleep a Pug needs and ways to help this breed achieve a good night's rest? Check out Pug Dog Sleep. Smuttiness If you take a very closeup look at a light-colored Pug, you may see a scattering of a few black hairs over the body and this is generally not enough to classified a Pug has having smuttiness. Smuttiness on a Pug refers to a noticeable overlay of black hairs on a light coat fawn, silver, silver-fawn, apricot, or apricot-fawn. These patches of black hairs are thin enough to see the lighter hairs underneath, however it gives an overall appearance of a "haze". The more there is, either in density or coverage, the more smuttiness a Pug has. Note that black or darker hairs are desired in certain places on a Pug; running down the center of the back the trace and on the forehead the thumbprint - more ahead on both of these markings. But, when there is an overabundance of these black hairs in areas other than the forehead wrinkles or the back, the term smuttiness is then used. Smuttiness may appear in just about any area on a Pug including the saddle back , flanks, legs, and head. In the show world, this is not a disqualification, however it is considered to be a fault points are deducted. Example of Smuttiness on a Pug: Winston at 11 years old; this is an example of heavy smuttiness on the head. Though not something rewarded for in the show ring, there is no denying how cute this Pug looks. In fact, this is such a heavy intermingling of black hairs that Winston almost looks like a half fawn and half black Pug dog. The trace may begin on the nape of the neck or further down the back. It will run in a predominantly straight line, ending at the base of the tail. The thickness and the density of the trace can vary. Though a trace is a very desired trait in conformation dog shows, not all non-black Pugs have this marking. A trace may be very apparent during the puppy years and then fade as a Pug matures. On the flip side, this marking may not show at all during the newborn phase and then become apparent as the Pug grows. This particular element is considered to be an official marking of the breed and is thought to give Pugs character. In the show ring, the blacker the trace, the better. That said, if your Pug does not have a trace, this is nothing to be concerned about. If, however, when Pugs are being considered for a breeding program with the goal of producing show quality dogs, those with no trace at all are often excluded since this is a heredity trait. Example of a Trace on a Pug: Do you have a Pug and are worried about leaving them home alone? Find helpful tips for Pug Dog Separation Anxiety. The Thumbprint A Pug's thumbprint, also referred to as a thumb mark or diamond, is a darkened spot centered on the forehead. This, of course, is not seen on Pugs with black coats. Though this is another desired trait when Pugs are judged in conformation events, not all non-black Pugs have a thumbprint. Another way to look at this is that approximately 3 out of 4 non-black Pugs have a thumbprint or thumb mark. Though it is sometimes called a diamond, it may resemble an oval, a circle, or be an irregular shape. While the wrinkles on the forehead can cause shading that may appear to be a thumb mark, the thumb mark is actually a splash of darker color on the fur. This type of marking is usually present at birth. It is rare for a Pug born without this to develop one as he ages. When a young pup has a small thumbprint marking, it may grow larger or become darker as a Pug ages and matures. Example of a Thumbprint on a Pug: This is Tommy, a Pug with a nice thumbprint on his deep forehead wrinkles. This is an area of black that typically starts under the chin, covers the muzzle, and extends around the eyes. Though this is the general description, the mask can vary quite a bit on Pugs. One element to take note of is that the black may be mainly on the muzzle and then again with black fur around the eyes with little connection between the two points or, quite contrary to that, black may extend from the muzzle to the eye area with no interruption at all. In addition, while a very dark black mask is desired in the conformation show ring, the black mask on some Pugs may contain any number of fawn or lighter-colored hairs. This can range from medium to dark brown and eyes can be so dark that they almost appear black. With canine breed standards, the term dark means dark brown. Coat color does not affect eye color; for example, a fawn Pug does not automatically have lighter eyes than a black Pug. You may be curious to know if Pugs can have blue eyes. Blue is not in this breed's genetic code. However, similar to humans, dogs are usually born with dark blue eyes due to low levels of melanin in the eyes. The eyes darken as melanin levels naturally increase. This transition is usually complete by week six or seven. White Paws Can a Pug have mitted, white paws? The term 'mitted' is often used with cats since it is much more common for felines to have this type of color marking. It refers to coloring that falls on the paws that is different than the main body color, as if the animal is wearing mittens. White paws on a Pug is not common at all and is considered a major fault in the show ring; however, it can happen. This Pug below has a fawn coat and white markings on the paws and on the chest. Both photos are of Mr. Mittens, at 3 months old; photos courtesy of Suzanne White markings like this are able to exist due to the parti-factor gene. This very same color gene is responsible for small white markings on the chest that are occasionally seen with Pugs of all colors. Rarely, the parti-factor is thrown to one, some, or all paws, resulting in purebred Pugs with white mitted paws. Are you taking care of your Pug's teeth? For this brachycephalic breed, dental care is very important. Learn how to keep your Pug's teeth clean and healthy. Behavior and Personality Traits Based on Color Many people wonder if there are inbred character traits that vary depending on the coat color of the Pug. As with any other breed, the coloring of the coat has no effect on energy level, personality, behavioral quirks or any other element. But, it is easy to leap to the belief that color matters in this regard. An owner may have a black Pug that is more energetic than his fawn counterpart, for example. However, there are just as many owners who have energetic fawns compared to laid back black Pugs. Each dog is an individual, and Pugs will have their own unique personalities, regardless of coat color. Differences in Coat and Shedding Most Pugs have coats consisting of two layers of fur, an inner and an outer coat. Some, but not all black Pugs are single coated. For this reason, a percentage of black coated Pugs may shed less in comparison to fawn, apricots or slivers. And, the color of your carpeting and furniture can affect how much shedding you notice. Fur that sheds from a black Pug onto light-colored surfaces is going to be much more noticeable than fur that falls from a fawn Pug. And, fur that sheds from a fawn Pug onto dark surfaces is going to be much more visible than fur that falls from a black Pug. Though it's not suggested to buy furniture and flooring that matches your Pug, this is something to keep in mind. Did you find this to be informative? See what's inside. Related: Black Pug Dogs - More photos of black Pug puppies and dogs with a recap of color information. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Can a non-standard colored pug still be registered with a kennel club? For example: the AKC recognizes two pug colors as breed standard, fawn and black. These are the colors required for a pug to be a show dog and compete in the ring. They are the breed standard. However, a non-fawn or black pug can still be AKC registered — they will just not be allowed in the show ring. Silver-fawn, apricot, and even rare and controversial colors like brindle, can be registered with the AKC and listed as an alternate color. So, if you see a non-standard colored pug listed as registered with the AKC, it is entirely possible. You can read it here. The pug breed standard is the blueprint for the breed, and the target for which breeders should aim. The Pug Dog Club of America firmly states that: All reputable breeders of pugs are not interested in the development of any color of pug other than fawn or black. The most common pug colors: Fawn Pug Fawn is the most common pug color. Their muzzle or mask, and ears, should be as black as possible. Black Pug Even though fawn is the most common color of pug, the black gene is dominant. Black pugs have a rich, dark coat, and their muzzle or mask, and ears are black too. Silver-fawn and Silver Pugs Silver-fawn is oftentimes labeled as a type of fawn. They have a shiny gray sheen to their coats and are the lightest color a pug can be. Silver-fawn pugs are pretty rare, and many who have them categorize them as fawns, instead of silver-fawns. Apricot Pugs Apricot pugs have warm undertones of orange in their coats. The hues of orange are richer and deeper in color than the common fawn coloring. They include:.

Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Japanese Spitz is known for being obedient, intelligent, and playful. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Japanese Spitz or the Labrador Retriever? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Japanese Spitz Labrador Retriever Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Japanese Spitz Labrador Retriever Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. It made its debut at a dog show in Tokyo, Japan in .They were originally a chinese breed but made their way to Japan via several German Spitz dogs. These were of course crossbred with other small white dogs from all over the world to create what you see today. After the Second World War they were exported to Sweden and from there they made their migration across the globe. This dog is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. Labrador Retriever History Labrador Retriever, also called a Lab, is a retriever-gun dog—hence the name. The Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds in not only the United States but in the United Kingdom as well. This breed is also frequently trained as a disability assistance animal and are still prized as a sporting and hunting dog to this day. Known for being a loving, loyal and smart breed, the Labrador Retriever is a strong choice among families for the types of dog to bring home. They are great with kids and love to play as much as they can, so going on family adventures is just as exciting for them as it is for the family. The ancestors of the Labrador Retriever—a St. At the same time, over in Canada, the St. In the s, many ancestors of the breed were imported from Newfoundland to Europe to be used for gundogs. Moving forward to s, the 3rd Earl of Malmesbury, the 6th Duke of Buccleuch and the 12th Earl of Home came together to breed what is now the modern Labrador Retriever. In terms of the history of the subtypes of the Labrador Retriever, there is a Yellow and a Chocolate option for this breed. The first Yellow Labrador Retriever was born in while the first Chocolate Labrador Retrievers were established in the s. There is also a black Labrador Retriever. Along with their dashing physical attributes, spitz dogs seem to also share a strong sense of independence—which doesn't seem to interfere with their dedicated love for a special human or two much! What Is a Spitz Dog? Although some spitz dog breeds are loosely related, they're actually not all the same. Lisa Peterson is the breeder content creator at Embark. She tells Daily Paws there are 25 purebred spitz dogs, each hailing from several regions around the world. Peterson says like most purebred dogs, spitz breeds were designed to help humans. But if you're curious about their origins, Peterson says their breed ancestry can be identified by their DNA. We've highlighted some of the top spitz breeds to give you the lowdown on which one or two! Types of American Spitz Dogs These spunky pups worked hard to get where they are today! Breed professionals call them 'prick' ears, and they're common among spitz dogs like Alaskan malamutes. Companions of the ancient Mahlemiut Inuit tribe, mals, as they're often called , shared the heavy loads of their migratory quests across the Kotzebue Sound in northwest Alaska—and distracted polar bears! So naturally, they're used to daily vigorous activities and tasks that keep their sharp minds on point. Start socializing a mal puppy right away and he'll be a terrific—albeit sassy! Although they sport a snow-white coat, Eskies aren't sled dogs, and have nothing to do with the Indigenous group of people of Alaska, Eastern Siberia, and Northern Canada. According to their breed club , these easily-trainable , intelligent dynamos became American circus stars in the early s, dazzling audiences with their feats. If you've always wanted to teach a dog agility skills , an Eskie might be for you. His ancestry dates back more than years. Viewed as a symbol of happiness, health, and long life in his native country, the Akita became popular in the U. Large and in charge, he's a staunch but loving guardian of his people, which means he might snuff at strangers. An Akita also has a strong prey drive , so always take him on long but leashed walks so you both can relieve stress. As one of the world's oldest breeds , she comes by her regal bearing naturally, as her ancestors were companions of emperors. Best suited to adults, she might not be the snuggliest—um, pounds is a lot of lapdog! She settles into apartment living quite well, as she doesn't need a lot of exercise, but start positive reinforcement training early. A Jindo will fill that role well. This athletic spitz hails from South Korea's Jindo Island, and is considered a national monument. However, no one is quite sure how he got there! He could have traveled with sailors on Chinese trade ships or been left behind after Mongol invasions. Still relatively unknown in the U. This national treasure, now the country's No. Experienced dog owners love their independence and truly goofy personality. Make no mistake: Shibas will wander off in an instant, so if you're not leading them on outings in a comfy harness , make sure they have a fenced play area—these clever and curious doggos are exceptionally skilled at 'keep away'! It's possible he's a crossbreed of many other canines in the spitz line. Like all double-coated breeds, this darling is going to ' blow coat ' at least twice a year, shedding like a gorgeous white fur hurricane. But frequent grooming is a minor tradeoff to have such a spirited, happy, and bright pooch who loves dog parks , playtime, and his closest humans. Other Asian spitz breeds:. Categories Dog Breeds , Dog Fun From the water retrievers to the hounds and bulldogs, the canine kingdom has some all types of unique dogs. Spitz dogs are some of the most interesting types of breed. And some of the most popular dog breeds are considered spitz dogs too. In short, spitz dog breeds are dogs known for their long and fluffy coats. These dogs tend to have erect ears and a sharp muzzle. For example, most spitz dogs will have pointed upright and relatively small ears. Their almond shaped eyes sit above their sharp muzzles and strong jaws. These dogs have a dense and fluffy coat. All spitz type dogs have double coats , which just means they have two layers of fur undercoat and top coat. According to Canidae, spitz-type dogs are typically intelligent breeds with a curiosity for life. They tend to be overall good dogs with a sweet disposition. In fact, some spitz breeds are known for their undying loyalty, such as the Akita Inu and Husky. When it comes to the human-dog relationship, the spitz breeds tend to develop a strong bond and love nothing more than to play with their favorite people of the pack. Even if I move her, she comes right back. For these reasons, these dogs need firm and consistent training. Where do Spitz Dogs Come From? However, we do know these dogs likely originated from the blistering cold regions of the arctic circle. Almost always, they were developed to help their human companions with outdoor working tasks, such as herding, hunting and pulling sleds. Though, they were much bigger in the past. Siberian Huskies have a portion of their genome that traces back exclusively to this ancient Siberian wolf. Although prehistoric wolves are extinct, their genetic legacy has been passed down to many spitz breeds, including the most popular Arctic sled dogs. Pomeranian Highlights: Cheerful, Playful, Fun-loving The Pomeranian is one of the most common spitz type dog breed in the world. They may have a small body, but Poms come with a big dog personality and demeanor. Always inquisitive, these toy breeds are all about companionship and human interaction. But keep in mind, the shedding can get a little excessive. Pomeranians are undeniably loyal companions. As a matter of fact, the two dog breeds are closely related and share the same ancestry surprised? Weighing about 25 pounds and growing up to 15 inches tall, the German Spitz is what we imagine the old sled-pulling Pomeranians to be like. For instance, German Spitzes are just as lively and attentive as any other spitz breed. They check all the box marks for key spitz characteristics, including the notoriously heavy shedding thanks to the thick double coat. Huskies are often misunderstood dogs. Their adventurous spirit makes them likely to run if given the chance. Although the two breeds are similar, the Malamute is much larger. These dogs are one of the oldest dog breeds around and believed to be genetically linked to the domesticated wolves that traveled with Paleolithic hunters. Like the Husky, Alaskan Malamutes are world-class sled dogs. They are always vigilant, but not too aloof around unfamiliar humans. These dogs are not historically connected to eskimos. In fact, you can call the German Spitz the direct ancestors of the American Eskimo. The smile keeps them from drooling, which is can be useful in sub zero temperatures and prevent icicles from forming. For example, Samoyeds are much larger and can grow up to 24 inches tall. Samoyeds are gentle enough to play with kids, but also big enough to withstand the rough play. Oh, and they have the signature spitz coat too. They were bred to be courageous hunting dogs that specialized in tracking birds. A Finnish Spitz will run ahead and follow a bird until it lands on a tree. The dog will continue by running around the tree and barking. But when it comes to hunting, they hunt like a skilled dog. Unlike the Finnish Spitz, the Lapphund was not meant for hunting. Instead, these dogs were developed to be excellent reindeer herding dogs. After all, reindeers can weigh up to pounds! Plus, their vigilant nature makes them hesitant with the unfamiliar. Although they love barking and shed like all the other spitz breeds, Lappies are very popular because of their top tier companionship. These dogs were once companions and guardians that traveled across the continent with Vikings. However, the Norwegian Buhund has come a long way since its Viking days. The Buhunds are the ultimate home dogs. Expect your Buhund to weigh up to 40 pounds and standard nearly 19 inches tall. Believed to have sailed with the Vikings , these robust dogs are among the oldest in Europe. Norwegian Elkhounds have all the physical traits that make them obvious spitz dogs. But what makes them unique is the silver-gray and black coat that gives them an exotic yet elegant look. From their sturdy legs to their muscular frames and powerful thighs, they were built to work hard. And despite their relatively modest size, they were used to hunt the most fearsome and biggest wild game. Elkhounds mainly helped with taking down elk and bears. How many dogs can do that? At least, in regards to what they were bred for. They are the only dog breed developed for puffin hunting. Norwegian Lundehunds were bred on a remote island , called Vaeroy just off the coast of Norway. This island is home to over a million puffin birds. They were exceptionally good at this job. Fortunately, puffins are endangered today and these dogs are just friendly companions for homes all over the world. Historians believe these dogs roamed across the continent over a thousand years ago. Around the 8th or 9th century, they were believed to be brought into Wales, which may explain their similarities to the Corgi. For example, the erect ears, sharp snout and elongated bodies are seen in both. With sufficient exercise, Swedish Vallhunds are cheerful and affectionate spitz dogs. They have all the qualities of a spitz breed, including pointy ears, curly tail and dense coat. The Norse settlers needed herding dogs to help on the farm, which was how the Icelandic Sheepdog was born. Despite their fox-like appearance, the Icelandic Sheepdog is very approachable. These dogs still herd today, but more and more are entering the homes of families all across the world, especially in Iceland. While many spitzes are known for having a fox-like face, the Keeshond is most famous for the look. In the past, they were guard dogs and companions often working on Dutch vessels alongside sailors. The biggest difference between the Chow Chow and other spitzes is the head shape. Other spitz dogs have a sharper snout with longer, erect ears. The only commonality is the dense double coat. Chow Chows are as friendly as any other dog breed. With a muscular frame and an impressive stature, these heavy-boned spitz dogs represent dignity, courage and undying loyalty. Akita Inus are reliable and dependable companions. They get along great with family and familiar people, but are always alert and wary of others. Originally bred in Japan as a small hunting dog, Shibas have quickly become companions in households all over the world. Most Shibas are very independent, strong-willed and also have a bit of a stubbornness to them. Although they have bold personalities, they can also be highly affectionate in the home. Just call them the comedians of the spitz-type dog breeds. Loyal and sweet-natured, the Japanese Spitz is up for anything. All they want is to spend quality time with their owners. In terms of physical appearance, they look very similar to many other spitz dogs. They make incredible kid-friendly dogs, but at the same time, are decent watchdogs due to their alertness. Given their jobs as guardian dogs, you can expect them to be alert and vigilant. They may not be as big as other dogs, but they have a dominant personality. They require consistent and firm training , but also plenty of socialization. Off the field, they can be affectionate companions. But despite their fun-loving nature, the Schipperke was actually bred as a working dog. In fact, this Spitz breed was actually developed for ratting and sometimes as watchdogs. They have a strong neck, but also a powerful set of jaws. Combine these traits with their stealthy cat-like hunting style, and you have one of the best rat hunters ever seen. And yes, their iconic solid black coats also help them in stealth mode. These spitz dogs have the energy to keep up with active children. Korean Jindos embrace all the traits of a typical spitz dog. In fact, Jindos usually pick one member of the family to treat as their alpha. That said, these dogs tend to do well with one owner. In the past they were fierce and skilled hunters. These dogs tend to be very territorial. In addition, they can be overly protective of their pack at times. A Jindo will be suspicious of other dogs and humans. These eerily-similar spitz dogs have a lot of similar traits that extend far beyond their physical looks. For example, both dogs are playful, energetic and love to romp around with a cheerful vibe. At one point, the Indian Spitz was by far the most popular breed in India. In fact, they reached peak in popularity during the late 80s. However, with the import of a variety of foreign breeds, their population started to dwindle over the decades. What makes the Indian Spitz unique is their versatility and ability to adapt to many environments. This was what, in fact, breeders wanted from the breed when developing the Indian Spitz. For this reason, the Indian Spitz is able to live in the harsh climate presented in India. So which spitz dog is your favorite? Did we miss a breed that deserves to be on this list? Let us know in the comments section below. Posts you may like:. Erica Puisis writes about home products for The Spruce and specializes in interior design and plant care. What is a Spitz Dog? Breeds classified as spitz dogs have similar features—particularly long, fluffy fur along with pointed ears and noses—and typically hail from regions with harsh winters. Their coats are insulating to keep them warm in cold conditions, and many are white. Some spitz dogs have tails that hang down, but most are curved up to rest over the dog's back. This description sometimes gets blurred between certain breeds, making the exact number of spitz breeds impossible to nail down. However, according to breeds registered with the American Kennel Club, the United Kennel Club, and the international organization FCI , there are about 50 to 70 spitz dog breeds. Including large and small breeds, some of these dogs are bred for hard work and others are bred for hardly working—instead they prefer to snuggle up as a companion dog. Tip Spitzes are double-coated dogs, and they shed profusely. Some drop their undercoat once or twice a year, and they will still drop hairs in between these shedding periods throughout the year. The best way to manage the dust bunnies around the house is regularly using a deshedding tool or ordering a deshedding service from a groomer. Breed Characteristics Features that unite this dog type include a wolf-like or foxy appearance with pointy ears, curled tails, almond-shaped eyes, and thick coats. With their double coats and curled tails, many are bred to be able to handle cold weather conditions and often originated in regions that experience harsh winters. A curled tail helps to protect them from cold weather. The coiled tail usually rests on their lower back or backside, helping to keep the heat in and making them less likely to catch a chill while outside or away from home for long periods of time. Here are 40 spitz dog breeds that range from recognizable to very rare. They are native to Holland and were kept as guard dogs and companions on the barges that sailed through the waterways. The Keeshond also sports a thick frill of fur that covers the shoulders and chest. You can find their thick coats in varying shades of gray, black, cream, or a combination. Its wolf-like appearance runs strong, and seeing this working dog running through the frozen wilderness of its home makes you do a double-take—was that a wolf? The Siberian husky was bred for companionship and work, making them a great family dog for those who are up to their intense exercise requirements. Breed Overview Height: 20 to 24 inches Weight: 35 to 60 pounds Coat and Color: Eye color is typically blue or brown or one of each ; double-layered coat can be black, gray, red, brown, tan, or white. These happy, playful dogs are on the smaller end, topping out at 18 inches tall. Their ancestors traveled to Iceland with Norse settlers. Bred for herding sheep and ponies, these dogs were the forefathers of the modern Iceland sheepdog we know now. Breed Overview Height: 16 to 18 inches Weight: 25 to 30 pounds Coat and Colors: Waterproof double thick coat, which can be short or long, and in a variety of colors: fawn, cream, chocolate, black, and gray; all variations have white markings and sometimes have a black mask Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years 04 of 40 Pomeranian ShutterRunner. The Pomeranian is a toy dog breed that is no larger than 7 pounds. Though these tiny fluff balls lack wolf-like sizing, they still sport the famous pointed ears, long snout, and curled tail. They may be small, but they have big personalities. They are playful, bold, and intelligent, making great family dogs and watchdogs. Breed Overview Height: 6 to 7 inches Weight: 3 to 7 pounds Coat and Color: Thick coat with an abundant frill of fur that covers the shoulders and chest; colors include white, black, blue, red, cream, gray-shaded, tan, orange, brown Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years Continue to 5 of 40 below. These gorgeous white dogs are pack-oriented and form close bonds with their people. They are kind, hard-working, social, and loyal. Famous for their permanent smile, these pups have a friendly personality to match. They are loyal, bold, and confident. However, they are independent and strong-willed and can form very close bonds with their people. The shiba inu boasts a fox-like appearance —red color and all. They also come in black and tan-colored coats. They were kept as companions, guards, hunters, and haulers. These distinct dogs are known for their blue-black-colored tongue, wrinkled face, and neck ruff. Though they are serious-mannered and aloof with strangers, chows can form extremely loyal bonds with the humans they love. These dogs made it to America in the s and quickly became loved for their smarts, good looks, and eager-to-please attitude. They make wonderful, loving companions for anyone searching for an adventure buddy. Breed Overview Group: Non-Sporting AKC Height: 15 to 19 inches for standard; 12 to 15 inches for miniature; 9 to 12 inches for toy Weight: 25 to 35 pounds for standard; 10 to 20 pounds for miniature; 6 to 10 pounds for toy Coat and Color: Black nose, lips, and eye-rims with thick ruff around the neck and shoulders; the thick, white coat may also be seen in cream or "biscuit" Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years Continue to 9 of 40 below. Despite their large size, these dogs are big softies and love to play an active part in the family unit. They make gentle, affectionate companions and generally do not make good watchdogs because of how friendly they are. Their dynamic way of life in Alaska means they need plenty of exercise. Anyone looking to add a lovable Malamute to the family will need to give them the exercise and loving attention these pups require to thrive. They were used on farms as herders, guards, and all-around farmhands. Today, the Buhund is still used for active farm work in Norway. They are confident, smart, and very loving, making this spitz dog breed a wonderful working companion. These dogs were highly valued and loved, and some are even found in the tombs of their owners, alongside their sword and shield. The elkhound is mentioned in Norse history and mythology. Like the Norwegian buhund, the elkhound was used around the farm for herding and guarding. And, as their name suggests, the elkhound was also used for hunting elk. These brave, loyal, kind-hearted dogs make delightfully devoted companions to the adventurous type. Bred to hunt "lunde" or puffins among rocky cliffs, these dogs have six working toes on each paw instead of dewclaws. Their necks are very flexible and can bend backward so far that their heads touch their spines. They have the ability to fold their pointed, upright ears closed, forward, or backward. And their front legs are so flexible that they can extend them completely to their sides. Breed Overview Height: 12 to 15 inches Weight: 20 to 30 pounds Coat and Color: Double coat with a harsh, short outer and a soft and dense undercoat; males have a thicker ruff around the neck; coat may be black, white, sable, gray, or red; black hair tips that darken with age and can also have white, white with red, or dark markings Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years Continue to 13 of 40 below. Japanese Spitz may live 3 years more than Labrador Retriever. Japanese Spitz may have less litter size than Labrador Retriever. History Japanese Spitz Sale Spitz dogs include quite a few dog breeds and these dogs all have similar characteristics — pointed, erect ears, slanted type eyes with thick fur. The Japanese Spitz was developed by Japanese breeders at the time of the s, and bringing in quite a number of dog breeds to do so. The breeders started with the white German Spitz dogs but later other white Spitz breeds were imported and crossed into this developing breed. The dog became recognized by other kennel clubs of the world. Dorset Eskimos are the people who settled down first in Newfoundland. Newfoundland was discovered in by the Bristol traders from England. The people in the Newfoundland used Lab to help them during fishing. They were recognized as a kennel club breed in England. The Lab has its special talents in fishing, it nicely holds the fish in its mouth and swims well to bring it to the fisherman who was its master. They are also used to hunt game birds and waterfowl. The dog stands at 25 — 38cm, both male and female and weighs anything between 5 to 10kg. The double coat of the dog is thick and white and the puppies look like large snowball. Temperament: The pure-bred Japanese Spitz, just like other Spitz dogs are smart, inquisitive dogs who show loyalty to their owners, getting on well with children in the home and making a good family pet. They can be quite stubborn, so training and socialization becomes important if you want him to be obedient. Training is easy as he is an intelligent, bright little dog. He can tolerate cold weather quite well but as a companion dog, he prefers being indoors with his human family. Even though they are small dogs, they are protective and make good watchdogs. They were bred to be companion dogs and they take this role seriously, being loyal, entertaining, fun, friendly and loving with their human family. It is why they are becoming such a popular breed as they have an amicable nature, getting on well with other pets as well as children. Labrador Retriever Sale Lab is a nice companion and also it helps in doing several works if it is trained. Lab is the America's most popular breed. They help the hunters, works with police and also serves physically challenged people. They are very friendly and it helps people so much by doing many works. They have very good sensitivity and are so affectionate with family members. They have very high energy level in their young stage. The Lab is a muscular and athletic dog. They are sweet natured and well deserved. Lab needs physical and mental activities regularly as they are very intelligent and energetic. The pure bred Labs have black, chocolate and yellow colours. They are very interested in hunting and roaming. The young Lab should be given training to swim as a child, as they likes it very much. They takes more time to mature hence remaining as teenager for a long time when compared with other breeds. Characteristics Japanese Spitz Sale Your Japanese Spitz is going to make you a superb companion and you want to ensure that you are well prepared for him when he arrives. He is feisty, charming, social, bright, alert, active, loyal and loving and you want to be sure that he has everything laid on as a 4-legged family member. He isn't a high maintenance dog, he isn't demanding and if you love and care for him, you'll find that he fills a vacancy in your life that you'll never want to be without again. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Japanese Spitz Overview The Japanese Spitz was bred to be a small companion dog that is cute, loyal, friendly, and smart. Although they are a relatively new breed, Japanese Spitz dogs are becoming increasingly popular due to their pleasant temperament, their ability to get along with other dogs and children, and their fairly low grooming needs, among other traits. They also tend to be healthy dogs with a longer-than-average life expectancy. Dogs of this breed adapt well to apartment living and have low-to-moderate exercise needs. At least one walk a day should keep them happy and prevent boredom, along with the destructive tendencies that are seen in dogs of almost any breed when they are cooped up too long without physical and mental exercise. Japanese Spitz dogs respond well to training and learn quickly. Japanese Spitz Highlights Japanese Spitz dogs have fairly low grooming needs, despite the appearance of their beautiful, white coats. Two good brushings a week should do the trick. Despite being similar in appearance to the American Eskimo Dog, Pomeranian, and Samoyed breeds, the Japanese Spitz breed has its own history and is recognized as a separate breed by many kennel clubs around the world. Japanese Spitz dogs have a bark that is louder than what you might expect from their size, and they are known to be fearless, especially when protecting their families. Although they make good apartment dogs, Japanese Spitz dogs do not like to be left alone for long periods of time, or they may get anxious. These dogs are very smart and respond well to positive reinforcement training. Japanese Spitz dogs are family-friendly. They are known to be playful and gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other dogs in the household. The first dogs of the breed were descended from several white German Spitz dogs that were brought to Japan from China. Over the next few years, many other white Spitz breeds were imported from all over the world, and they were crossbred to produce more desirable traits in the emerging Japanese Spitz breed. In the s, Japanese Spitz dogs were exported to Sweden, then England, and then around the world. Eventually, national kennel clubs all over the world recognized the Japanese Spitz as its own breed, though many of these kennel clubs still vary in their breed standards, especially when it comes to what size these dogs should be. The American Kennel Club is an exception, as it does not recognize the Japanese Spitz as a separate breed, mostly because of the strong resemblance to the American Eskimo Dog. The breed still continues to grow in popularity around the world. Japanese Spitz Size Many kennel clubs disagree as to exactly what size Japanese Spitz dogs should be, but they range in between 10 and 16 inches in height at the shoulders. Females tend to be smaller than males on average. The usual weight of dogs in this breed is 11 to 20 pounds. Though there is disagreement about the proper size of the Japanese Spitz, they are usually larger than Pomeranians, which share many common characteristics. Japanese Spitz Personality Japanese Spitz dogs are prized for their wonderful temperaments. They are very family-friendly and have a playful spirit. Their energy needs are fairly average. One good walk a day should suit a Japanese Spitz just fine, and they might also appreciate a chance to run off leash. Because they are good with other dogs, a trip to the dog park will let them run freely and burn off any excess energy. That said, every dog should have socialization training, regardless of breed, before interacting with other animals. Japanese Spitz dogs are known for their courage and protective nature. They will bark, surprisingly loudly, at strangers who enter their territory, though they will calm down if humans they trust reassure them. They should be introduced to visitors comfortably. Japanese Spitz dogs soak up training well, and they are quite intelligent. Japanese Spitz Health The Japanese Spitz dog breed is known to be fairly healthy with few of the genetic conditions that affect other purebreds. They may, however, be prone to luxating patellas—a condition where the kneecaps become dislocated. They may also have runny eyes from time to time, and their skin may become dry if they are bathed too frequently, which is why it is important to only bathe a Japanese Spitz when it is necessary. Owners should watch out for these conditions and maintain regular vet visits to catch and address any health concerns. Japanese Spitz Care Japanese Spitz dogs tend to be low-maintenance and require fairly basic care. Their teeth should be brushed regularly as recommended by a veterinarian. Their ears and paw pads should be checked for signs of infection, parasites, or debris and kept clean. Keep up with regular vet visits to maintain good health for your Japanese Spitz. Japanese Spitz Feeding A Japanese Spitz dog diet should be formulated for a small-to-mid-sized breed with average energy and exercise needs. You should consult your veterinarian or professional nutritionist for advice on what to feed your individual Japanese Spitz and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and senior age. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Even though they look like they have high grooming needs, they do not. Their coats have a texture that usually repels most dirt and debris. That said, their coats are thick, and they must be brushed to prevent knots and matting. Japanese Spitz dogs should be brushed at least twice a week with a brush that reaches to the undercoat. This will dislodge some of the dead hair and reduce the need to clean up after shedding, as well. Their coats tend to be dry compared to other breeds, which is why they should only be bathed as needed. Frequent bathing can remove some of the natural oil and moisture from the hair, which can cause itchiness. Overall, the grooming needs of the Japanese Spitz are quite low compared to many other breeds. Their small size also means that they are unlikely to accidentally knock kids over or play too rough. A Japanese Spitz will make a loving, protective playmate for most children. That said, it is still important to supervise play and to instruct youngsters on how to properly handle and treat pets. Any dog can nip when they are afraid or uncomfortable. Japanese Spitz dogs also tend to do well with other pets in the house. They are not naturally aggressive. However, it is still important to keep up with socialization training with any dog to make sure that they remain comfortable in the presence of new pets and animals that they might interact with. Japanese Spitz Rescue Groups If you are interested in adopting a Japanese Spitz dog, you may have some trouble finding a rescue that specifically caters to this breed. However, you can try following Rescue Me! Spitz Rescue on Facebook, which is a group that regularly posts links to adoptable Spitz dogs. You can also try our adoption page that lets you search for adoptable dogs by breed and zip code. More Info For You. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Dog type A German Spitz A spitz the name derives from the German word spitz, meaning "pointed", in reference to the pointed muzzle is a type of domestic dog consisting of 68 breeds, characterized by long, thick and often white fur, and by pointed ears and muzzles. The tail often curls over the dog's back or droops. While all of the breeds resemble primitive dogs, smaller breeds resemble foxes , while larger breeds resemble jackals , coyotes , wolves , and even dingoes. The exact origins of spitz dogs remain unknown, though most of the spitzes seen today originate from the Arctic region or from Siberia. They often have an insulating , waterproof undercoat that is denser than the topcoat to trap warmth. Small, upright ears help to reduce the risk of frostbite , square proportions and thick fur that grows on the paws protects the dogs from sharp ice. Many spitz breeds, like the Japanese Akita and Chow Chow , retain wolf-like characteristics like independence, suspiciousness, and aggression towards unfamiliar humans and other dogs, and they require much training and socialization when they are puppies before they become manageable in an urban environment. Some, such as the Karelian Bear Dog , are more difficult to train as companion dogs. Some breeds, such as the Pomeranian , have manes. Several spitz breeds such as huskies are bred for one purpose only. However it is common for many spitz breeds such as the Russian laikas to be general purpose dogs in their native lands, used for hunting, hauling, herding, and guarding. This trend is most evident in the tiny Pomeranian , which was originally a much larger dog closer to the size of a Keeshond before being bred down to make an acceptable court animal. The Keeshond, the Wolfspitz variety of the German Spitz , is an affectionate, loyal, and very energetic pet that was bred as a watchdog for barges hence the name Dutch Barge Dog. Often, these breeds are recognized for their "smiling" mouths.

On a property in Candler County, Georgia, more than German shepherds were locked up in filthy, muddy pens so they could be bred and have their puppies sold for profit. Atlanta Humane Society Once local residents became aware of this puppy mill , which was illegally run by a woman named Belinda Powell, they started contacting authorities and urging them to shut her operation down. Powell ran an additional puppy mill on a property in Montgomery County, Georgia, which also had more than German shepherds. Atlanta Humane Society Help finally arrived for the dogs in early January. Powell was arrested, and local authorities, working with multiple rescue groups, started to take the dogs off the property. Jessica Rock, director of legal advocacy and law enforcement support at the Atlanta Humane Society , was part of the team who went to the Candler County property. Atlanta Humane Society Rock and a whole team of rescuers from various organizations worked tirelessly to remove each and every dog from the property, get them medical help and put them into shelters or foster homes. I can put my game face on, and I can do what needs to be done to get those animals out of there, but then when I come home and decompress a little bit.Some dogs have even been adopted by loving families already. By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy. Cookie Settings. Belinda Powell, said to be a dog breeder, was charged after the animals were discovered on two properties she owns in Georgia's Candler and Montgomery counties, according to WSBTV. The dogs were rescued by the Atlanta Humane Society and local police departments on Saturday and Sunday, according to reports. Animal Law Source founder Claudine Wilkins, who was on site during the rescue, told the news station that the animal rescuers were 'walking in mud and feces up to our knees' when they went to retrieve the dogs. Not only that, but the igloo structures that Powell had set out for the dogs to take shelter in 'were submerged in water. So, there was no place for these dogs to stand in a dry spot. While some of the dogs are expected to be fine, others suffered from serious injuries, including one dog that had 'mucked up eyes' and could hardly see because they were 'all clouded over,' according to Wilkins. All dogs were given a basic medical exam on-site, the Atlanta Human Society said , noting that the dogs that were most in need of medical attention were transported to the organization's facilities in Alpharetta and West Midtown for treatment. He was born in a cruel commercial breeding facility located in Montgomery County, Indiana, soon separated from his mother and loaded into a panel van. The van was packed with other puppies on their way to be delivered to pet stores on the East Coast. A towing company and several state troopers rescued the puppies and transported them to a safe location. Miraculously most of the puppies, though likely frightened, were physically unharmed. He was triaged as needing immediate medical care, wrapped in warm towels and quickly driven to the local veterinary hospital. Chance was diagnosed with a broken jaw, a crushed right nasal passage, crooked eyes and significant blood loss. I met Chance in the hospital two days after the accident. He was still suffering major injuries. I decided to adopt him that day. The next few days were a struggle. But after I visited him, encouraged him to fight harder, and held him in my arms for hours in the recovery room, he started to make progress. The next week he was stable enough to be taken home. Chance was put on a special diet and monitored, yet the problems persisted. After further bloodwork, he was diagnosed with Pituitary Dwarfism. Chance remains the size of a very large Beagle. He will be on growth hormone treatments every six weeks for the rest of his life—which most likely will not be longer than five years. Puppy mill operators care more about profits than puppies. Responsible breeders do not sell their puppies to pet stores. All dogs deserve the good life—but as long as the secretive puppy-breeding industry continues to hide the truth, too many dogs will remain victims of its cruelty. Visit aspca. Share Your Story Did you purchase a puppy from a pet store or online? Did you rescue a puppy mill dog? Your story and photos could aid us tremendously as we work to educate the public and expose inhumane breeders. The breeder, Angela Powell, 51, has been charged with animal cruelty, and dozens of rescue groups, including the Nassau County Humane Society, are stepping in to help the dogs recover. The German Shepherds were found living in what investigators described as deplorable conditions in rural Georgia. The animals arrived in Nassau County Sunday night. Investigators said the conditions were so deplorable at one location that the breeder is now facing animal cruelty charges. Authorities said Powell bonded out of jail, but more charges are expected against her. A Candler County Georgia spokesman said Sheriff John Miles learned about possible cruelty to animals on Powell's property and called in investigators, who obtained a search warrant and found dogs on her property. Booking photo of Angela Powell "These animals were living in just fields of muck and dirt, bugs everywhere, barely any shelter and so many of them crowded together," McDonald said. According to the Humane Society, this was a breeding and hoarding situation where most of the dogs have never been on a leash or in a home. All the animals need extensive medical care before they will be healthy enough for foster homes and adoptions. The Nassau Humane Society will take in more German Shepherds from a larger property involved in the case in the next few weeks. If you're not going to adopt and go to a breeder, please know what kind of conditions these animals are in," McDonald said. Are they just being used over and over again to just reproduce? Do they have basic shelter? An Amazon Wish List has been created for people to donate directly. Some of the items on the wish list include dog food, treats and leashes. To view the complete list, click here. About the Authors:. No longer able to produce puppies and suffering from degenerating hips, the farmer called the kind-hearted volunteers at Finding Shelter Animal Rescue to pick her up. Victoria's story gets a little more heartbreaking -- a littermate bit her in the left eye when she was just a puppy and never received medical care -- she has since been blind in that eye. But a happy ending is in sight! As Victoria was being picked up by Finding Shelter's president, Grace Kelly Herbert, she found that the dog wouldn't allow volunteers to touch her. Frightened and growling, Victoria was taken directly to the vet where she was treated for fleas and given vaccines. Since there is no cure for Victoria's degenerative myelopathy which affects her hind legs, she is considered a hospice case and was only given another six months to a year to live. In the video below shared by the rescue staff, Victoria can be seen playing with a chew toy in the couple's yard for the very first time. Keep up with the wonderful work Finding Shelter is doing on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and their official website.

FAQ Welcome to Omni's dog harness size calculator, a convenient tool that will help you to choose the perfect harness size for your dog. Hence, many veterinarians and cynologists agree that harnesses could be a better option in some instances, especially for reactive dogs. Whether you're a new dog owner or an experienced pet parent trying to switch from a collar to a harness, you're in the right place. Use the dog harness size calculator, and read the article to get clear answers to some of the harness-related questions, such as: How to calculate dog harness size; How to measure your dog for a harness; What the correct harness is for a medium size dog; Whether harnesses are safer than collars; Whether collars are more appropriate for puppies than harnesses; And more! Harness what you need to know about dog harnesses Although, as dog owners, we would love to give our furry friends the freedom to roam free, unfortunately, for safety reasons, it's not always possible. Hence, harnesses and collars have always been pet owners' essential items; but what are the benefits and disadvantages of a harness? Let's explore. There are multiple benefits to using a harness. Below are a few: A harness helps your dog to avoid neck and spine injury when pulling on the lead. This is particularly relevant for leash-reactive dogs, who respond to external stimuli in an unwanted way and are more prone to pull on the lead. A harness prevents your dog from escaping. It is much easier for a dog to slip their head out from a collar than from a harness. A harness ensures that the dog does not have the means to escape. A harness makes it easier for you to control your dog. If your dog is easily distracted when walking, a harness will help you to have a tighter hold on the dog's movements. This is also beneficial if your dog tends to jump on people with excitement; since pressure from a harness is distributed more evenly on your dog's body than from a collar, you can quickly stop your dog from hopping without fear of injuring it. Harnesses prevent ocular proptosis. Too much strain on your dog's neck, which a collar may cause, can lead to the dog's eyeballs protruding out of the sockets — a condition known as ocular proptosis. Since the harness doesn't strain the dog's neck, this condition is avoidable by using a harness. Certain discomforts come with using a harness: It can be inconvenient to put on and take off a harness from your dog, compared to a collar, which is moderately easy to put on, and mostly stays on throughout the day. You may be unable to display the ID tag, which is crucial in case your dog gets away while outdoors. If not fitted correctly, a harness could be uncomfortable or painful for your dog. Ensure the harness is not too tight on your dog, especially if you have a growing puppy. You may need to monitor how well the harness fits closely. You may need to use more strength when walking your dog with a harness. This is often the case with bigger breeds. Want to know more about dogs? Then visit the Omni dog food calculator and our dog life expectancy calculator to determine your pet's daily calorie needs and life expectancy, respectively. What size harness does your dog need? Dog harness size chart by breed The size of your dog's harness will depend on the weight and girth of your dog. You can find the dog harness size chart by breed below: Breed. It has a front and back clip that you can attach to the leash to train your dog. It also comes with four adjustable straps around the neck and chest for perfect fitting, even for large lab puppies. To ensure that your puppy is safe in crowds, the Rabbitgoo harness has an extra handle on the back. However, the handle is a little thin, so if your puppy is a puller, it may break. The entire vest has padding made of breathable, heavy-duty material to promise the comfort of your puppy. The downside here is that it can be tricky to adjust the straps. Pros Available with side buckles to ease the fitting Soft, breathable padding for maximum comfort Comes with an extra handle on the back for better control in crowds Fair price Straps are difficult to adjust Plastic buckles wear off with excess pulling 3. In addition, the Voyager harness has double D-rings to clip onto the leash and keep it secure. It should be no different for your dog. But you need to help him. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health is the answer. This handy guide will help you recognize the symptoms of the health problems above. Get the knowledge to stay ahead of these terrible issues that can rob your lovely dog from vigor and life. Aside from the correct size, you should consider other features, like durability, adjustable straps, and convenience to get the best bang for your buck. Yet, the material still should be soft and breathable so that your puppy is comfortable while walking and exercising. Adjustable Straps This is a crucial feature to look for in a harness. Paul S. Paul has been creating content for the dog niche for many years. The information he shares comes his first hand experience growing up in dog lovers household and then owning multiple dog breeds of his own as an adult. Paul enjoys doing the hard research to collect, analyze and present our dogtemperament. Tru-Fit Harness with Seatbelt from Kurgo Yes, you should prefer a harness as it is better than a collar for your Lab puppy. This is because they are safer and offer much more control. A harness can also reduce strains compared to the collar which can cause tension around the delicate neck of your Lab puppy. The following are some of the biggest advantages of using a harness on your Lab puppy. Injuries Can be Prevented Harness always takes pressure away from the neck of your Labrador puppy. So you can pull the leash without hurting the dog. More importantly, this will help Labs to pull the lead without getting any injuries by themselves. Despite this, you should still teach your dog to not pull on the leash. But with harnesses, there is enhanced space for your dog to grow and it will not put any pressure on the neck of your Lab puppy. Provide Control without Cruelty This is the reverse of the final disadvantage of dog collars. It can be used if you are losing control of your pup. In this situation, you can use sheer force to hold back your Lab without causing undue pain and discomfort. In the case of collar, when you try to stop a fleeing Labrador by applying force, it can cause serious pain. Although Labs may respond quicker when you use collar, it is a very unkind act for pups. When can a Labrador Puppy Climb Stairs? Click here to find out. First thing first, it is important to purchase a proper size harness for your Lab puppy. You should start with a small-sized harness, depending upon the age and size of your puppy. The best way to find out whether the dog harness is too small for your Lab puppy is to put the harness properly on your dog. Start with fairly loose so that your dog can easily slip into the harness. Then, tighten it and check whether the harness fits properly by fitting two fingers between your dog and the harness at any point. Harnesses are a great choice for Lab puppies. However, owners need to choose the one in which their dog remains comfortable. You should start with the small one and move to the bigger sizes depending upon the size of your puppy. A harness should be tight enough so that your dog will stop slipping from it, especially if he suddenly reverses on you. However, if there is still gap after the fitting of two fingers, then the harness is too loose or big for your Labrador puppy. Want to make a good homemade meal for your Labrador Puppy? The Lab puppies can wear a harness when they are 8 weeks old. Owners should make sure that the harness is not too heavy or uncomfortable for their dogs. The following table shows the size of Labrador puppies in comparison to their age so that the owners can choose the best size. Front and back Long lines are best attached from the back The back-attachment point is ideal for long lines. Attaching it to the front risks the entangling of the front legs. A front and back harness gives maximum flexibility. Double ended Two leash attachment points Using a back-attachment point lets you use a double-ended leash. A single-ended leash can tighten the harness when only attached to the front. Different harnesses have variable tightness degrees. One with front and back attachment reduces gaping by balancing tension. Clipping the leash attachments at two points sounds too much, but it is best. Optimal control comes from a properly fitted dog harness. Handling large pets become effortless. Material Material quality is the first factor. Nylon, polyester, and breathable hybrid materials are a few options. The harness must not put much pressure on the neck and throat. The pull should be evenly distributed throughout the chest and body. Look for a harness guaranteeing sturdiness and comfort. Strength A 6 month old lab can also drag you in public. Labradors are naturally inclined to swim, play and have high energy. Labs are famous military dogs. Dogs without no-pull training can be challenging to maintain in long walks. A harness with extra padding provides the required strength. Look for safety features, reliable buckles, and quality stitching only. Size Labradors are medium-sized dogs that mature at six months. But they grow after maturity too. A harness with an adjustable strap is handy. A labrador retriever continues to grow for two years. Opt for a flexible harness that can be adjusted. Adjustability Adjustability is a vital consideration for young pups. Adjustable harnesses fit any body type or size. Ensure the clips are adjustable and well-built. A strong and popular breed like a labrador can break cheap clips. Comfort Double padding is a must for both young and old dogs. A soft harness is comfortable and prevents injuries. Some are only made for running and keep your dog in great shape. Safety Safety features like reflective material is a must-have. It increases dog visibility during early morning or night walks. Labrador retrievers who are likely to escape are more secure with such features. Some come with attached handles for more security. It is easier to grab your pet if they take off. Harnesses with seat belt features are also becoming popular. Durability Durability becomes vital if you buy a harness for the lab puppy. Always pick harnesses with a higher durability rating. An extremely durable dog harness will last from puppyhood to adulthood. Go for fully adjustable ones for the best results. Cost Budget is essential but comes second to quality. Buying cheaper products will make you spend again. Though cheap pet products are pocket-friendly, they lack quality. Get a good harness instead of going for cheap ones. Soft vests are best for puppies and older labradors. A front, rear, or dual clip harness is great for adult labs. From dual clip to step-in harnesses, there are several. Labrador Vest Harness These are basic walk harnesses. They are simple, lightweight, and inexpensive and made of mesh, plastic, or nylon. Dog owners with well-behaved dogs on leashes can get these. But the front and back clip harness can be attached at all the points. A double-ended leash is required for the front clip attachment. One point is attached at the front and another at the back. It provides more control over your escape artist. A no-pull dog harness minimizes the pup pulls without hurting them. Tactical Dog Harnesses These are popular for training, trekking, and hunting. Besides labs, it is ideal for other dog breeds, like German Shepherds. Military and service dogs wear tactical harnesses often. Tightening and Control Harness These harnesses are more aggressive than standard ones. They will tighten when your dog pulls. Dog chests can be squeezed on tightening. Experienced trainers and dog handlers use them best. Not sure which chest piece is right for your dog? Our list comprises of the 10 best harnesses for labradors. They are made from sturdy material and have the necessary safety features. Now lets look at all the harnesses one by one. A good labrador harness requires time, effort, and patience to buy. Avoid cheap harnesses that can snap, fall apart, or break. Ensure the chest piece fits well and is not tight. The dog must move with ease wearing the harness. The no-pull harness alone is not enough. Train your labrador retriever for adequate results. Measure the neck and the chest for an accurate fit. Add two inches to the chest measurement in case your lab gains weight. Check the tightness after fastening the clips and buckles. Your two fingers must fit to ensure it is comfortable. If not, then it is too tight. But a harness is comfortable and makes training straightforward. Lab puppies may bite the leash too much initially. However, showing patience will go a long way. Here are a few tips to acclimatize dogs:- Positive reinforcement training is best to accustom your lab. Giving them treats or toys when they follow commands is beneficial. Start slow and small. Place the harness on the floor and let them explore. Let the dog get used to the buckles and leash. You can treat them for being brave and sniffing. Put on the harness if you see progress. Let the dog walk around wearing the harness. Even if it is for a few minutes, treat them. Start with small neighborhood strolls if the dog is confident. Increase the walk durations gradually for smoothness. Irrespective of their style, you need the best harnesses for effective energy management. These athletic dogs are up for everything from trekking to hunting. You need a high-quality harness for your lively pooch. The best harnesses for labradors are:- RabbitGoo is best if you want to control your large lab easily. Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart is for labradors having frequent car rides. Eagloo dog harness provides maximum comfort with its breathable material. Each harness offers unique features and benefits. The final call comes down to your requirements. Harnesses are better suited for walking dogs. Collars are more comfortable and hold the ID. Vets suggest using a harness for many dogs with breathing issues. Should a Labrador wear a harness? Labradors are athletic and sturdy. Having a harness makes them easier to manage. Be it walks, hikes, or treks, they are secured. What size harness for lab puppy is best? You will need at least a 9-inch long collar for a lab puppy. Most labrador retrievers fit into the large harness category. For accuracy, take labrador measurements. How do I stop my Labrador from pulling on the leash? Starting leash training with a harness early is suggested. Teach them self-control and practice attention. Treat them when the position is correct. Do not let pulling reinforce. Should I use a collar or harness for my Lab? Dog Harnesses are considered humane for pets. They give more control than collars. Different harness types also make it easier to choose for your lab pup. What size harness for 8 week lab puppy? The size range for a small harness for an 8-week-old Labrador puppy is: Chest: inches. The critical difference is the degree of dressing up required. This is a moment of personal reflection: do you have a tough time getting out of the house to take your Labrador for a walk? Minimizing the effort required to take your dog walking will ensure that you actually take him out. If your Labrador pulls on his lead, the pressure can quickly start producing irreversible damage. Can Trouble Dogs Even the most humane collars can bother some Labradors. Most new puppies might have trouble accepting a heavy collar. Starting with a light collar at an early age can offset this disadvantage. Some dog trainers can lead-train dogs with collars by building on a foundation of familiarity set by owners who get their dogs to accept light collars early on. This means both products need to be able to cater to different sizes. Most harnesses can house a range of body sizes. But when it comes to collars, your Labrador might start choking on the collar without you realizing it. Adjustable collars can offset this problem. In my opinion, even if you have compassionately trained your Labrador to accept his collar and even go on long walks with the lead attached to the said collar, what happens when your dog gets over-excited? It is quite literally impossible to hold him in position without choking him. Verdict on Dog Collars Dog collars are great to indicate ownership and protect your Labrador from being assumed and treated as a stray. Apart from that, I see no advantage in collars, especially when walking on a lead. So a nuanced approach would be to use a light collar and use a harness whenever you use a lead so that you can sidestep the dangers of lead walking a puppy with a collar. More importantly, your Labrador can pull the lead without hurting himself. More Room for Error If your Labrador puppy wears a collar, you need to follow his growth closely lest the collar begins choking him. Above all, it is more noticeable when your puppy outgrows his harness compared to when he outgrows his collar. In the worst-case scenario, you get to hold back your Lab with sheer force without hurting him as much. Tugging on a collar when your Labrador is trying his best to get away is heartless. That said, you should note that dogs give in more easily when their collar is tugged compared to holding back a harness. The ease, however, is mutually exclusive with kindness in this instance as a submission comes through the pain with a collar. In other words, a harness is something you would want on your pup only on walks. Most well-trained Labradors can go without a harness for short walks, and the harness is left for lead walks. Your Dog Will Take Time to Get Used to It This is a size-driven disadvantage that seems like a logical tradeoff when compared to the burden it offsets. I believe removing cruelty from the equation is well worth the relatively long waiting period. Starting with a light harness with a young Lab puppy is a perfect way to normalize it. Both collars and harnesses are uncomfortable initially, and in the long run, your dog can get used to both. While some trainers make arguments for collars, they are almost exclusively positioned as okay for larger dogs with stronger necks. This makes a harness your only option when out walking. Should a Labrador Wear a Harness? We have already established that harnesses are gentler than collars on Labradors. So, this may have you wondering, should Labradors wear a harness? A Labrador should wear a harness so that you can control him when he gets over-excited on a walk. A harness also allows your dog to keeps his neck safe when you have him on a tight leash. Doing the same with a collar could cause choking, damage to the trachea, or nerve damage. Harness vs. Collar For a Labrador Puppy Harness Advantages Prevents injuries to the neck Allows a lost dog to be identified from a tag Allows more control Easier to wear for tracking Allows room for growth. Conclusions Do I need to put a harness on my Lab puppy? They demand the best food and the most attentive care. As a result, many people believe that you should use a harness rather than a collar on your lab because of how much they tend to pull. Using a leash and collar can help reduce the amount of pulling, but it can be not easy to maintain a firm grip on the leash while walking. A dog harness is also an option. This is the better option for safety, comfort, and training for your Labrador. A comfortable Labrador harness is an important consideration when shopping for one. A good rule of thumb is that the harness should be snug but not squeezing the wearer. As a result, choosing a durable option is critical. For your dog, the features of a Lab harness are more important than the aesthetics. However, if you want to give your dog a dash of color, you can go with a bright harness. A harness is preferable to a collar for a Lab puppy because it is more secure and gives the owner greater control. The ability to lead and control your dog is essential no matter what kind of dog you already have at home, whether a new Labrador puppy or an older dog who has been following you around the house waiting for a walk. To avoid hurting your Labrador, use a harness that distributes the pressure across his upper body instead of his neck. More importantly, your Labrador will not injure himself while pulling the lead. To keep walking your dog from becoming a chore, you must still teach your dog not to pull on the leash. Control Without Cruelty The final drawback of dog collars has reversed. If all else fails, you can use brute force to restrain your dog without causing him undue harm. When your Labrador attempts to flee, it is cruel to force him to wear a collar. Note that dogs give in more quickly when their collar is tugged than when they hold back a harness. As a collar forces a submission, ease is incompatible with kindness in this instance. What is the proper Harness size for a Labrador Retriever? It would help if you got your dog used to wearing a harness as soon as possible. What is the recommended harness size for my Lab puppy? A harness with adjustable straps is preferable because it will last longer when your dog goes through a growth spurt. On the other hand, others believe that this is a risky move. There used to be a fear among dog owners that their pet would be an easy mark for thieves if they knew his name. Many dogs are also microchipped, which makes proving ownership much easier, but most dogs are supervised while outside. Even if your dog is amiable, having his name on his collar is unlikely to put him at risk. Conclusions Collars do serve a purpose in the lives of Labradors, but it is a means of identification, not as a fashion statement. When lab puppies get excited, they may pull on their leashes excessively. Your Labrador must be trained to wear the harness before you can use it safely — you must do this as soon as possible when he is a puppy so that you can control him more effectively. Post navigation.