golden retriever puppies for adoption in ct

Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Calcium and phosphorus support healthy bone structure, while a balanced energy content helps them maintain an ideal weight. Once your Lab puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Read more Promoting pet health and wellbeing Creating value for our entire ecosystem Committed to become certified carbon neutral by Cookie Settings. The nutrients needed in a puppy's diet There are a range of vital nutrients that your puppy needs during the first months of life to aid healthy growth and development. A puppy's diet must be able to provide enough energy and quality protein to support growth and be easily digestible. We develop our foods in close collaboration with breeders, vets and nutritionists. As well as focusing on the exceptional nutritional quality of our formulas, we also ensure the following key factors. To make our formulas as appealing as possible, we: Select ingredients rigorously for their odour, density and texture as well as nutritional quality. Design kibble texture, shape and size to suit each size of dog. Preserve formulas. So we ensure our formulas are highly digestible to help avoid stomach upsets and make it easier for your puppy to absorb the nutrients. View puppy range How much should I feed my puppy? Puppies have different nutritional needs according to their breed and eventual adult size. Ask your vet for help checking the expected adult weight of your puppy according to their breeding. You can then choose the right food for them and make sure you give it to them in the right quantities. What are the size categories for dogs? Dogs are categorised in five different sizes: X-small — up to 4kg when adult Small — up to 10kg when adult Medium — 11kg to 25kg when adult Large — 26kg to 44kg when adult Giant — over 45kg when adult Why is puppy food tailored to adult dog sizes? Breeds of different sizes have different needs as puppies. Medium breeds tend to be more active outdoors so need plenty of energy and helping building their natural defences. Large and giant breeds grow slower and need less energy per kilo of bodyweight than small breeds. What if I give food designed for different sized breeds? Underfeeding can lead to issues including malnutrition and stunted growth. While overfeeding can make your puppy overweight, which can cause painful bone and joint problems, difficulty breathing and more. Does portion size matter for puppies? This is particularly crucial for large breed dogs, as overfeeding can cause them to grow too quickly and develop skeletal problems. Always refer to the portion recommendations on the pack and weigh each meal carefully. Smaller breed dogs reach adulthood sooner than others, so they can move to fewer meals a day at an earlier stage. To help them feel secure, and avoid upsetting their digestion, give them the same food, preferably at the same times, in the same place, using the same bowl. What is mixed feeding for puppies? Mixed feeding is when you give your puppy a combination of wet and dry food — either at the same time or at separate meals, but never in the same bowl. They both offer important benefits such as wet food helping with hydration and appealing to picky eaters. While dry food can slow down fast eaters. Palatability Our wet formulas are designed to be highly appealing to the fussiest of puppies. When should I begin mixed feeding? Puppies can start mixed feeding at any time, but introducing them to variety at an early age may avoid fussy behaviour in adulthood. A dog's digestive tract becomes accustomed to the composition and type of food. The amount your puppy needs to drink depends on factors including the environmental temperature and their size, exercise levels, physical condition and diet. The best way to ensure your puppy drinks the right amount is to give them constant access to fresh water. Change the water in their bowls daily to keep it clean and top it up throughout the day. Also wash their bowls daily to prevent parasites breeding in them. Then they always have the opportunity to drink in a quiet place. And avoid plastic water bowls as they can harbour off-putting smells and bacteria — ceramic or stainless steel bowls are best. Here are some good habits to establish straightaway to help your puppy build positive associations with feeding times and get the nutrients they need. What How Maintain portion control To avoid overfeeding your puppy, check the dietary guidelines on the food packaging and measure each portion carefully. Remember the stated amounts apply for the whole day, not per meal. Giving your puppy scraps or hand feeding can also cause bad behaviour. Limit how many you give and always offer them at the right time for the right reason. Limit activity before and after feeding To prevent stomach upsets, try to avoid your puppy jumping about for an hour or two after eating. Feed your puppy after you As dogs are pack animals, they need to know the hierarchy. Keep feeding times calm Distractions can put your puppy off their food, so keep their feeding area quiet. Set the pace If your puppy bolts their food, try a slow-feed bowl or feeding puzzle. Make sure you choose the right puppy food according to their expected adult size and always follow the portion recommendations on the pack. When should I stop feeding puppy food? For smaller breeds this can be as early as eight months, but for larger breeds it can be up to two years. When can puppies eat dry food? Puppies can start to eat dry kibbles when weaning, which begins at around four or five weeks. What foods are poisonous for a puppy? Many of the foods that are healthy or enjoyable for us can be poisonous for dogs and puppies. Is homemade food better for puppies? It also perishes faster and tends to be more expensive and time-consuming to make. This is important to know as both can cause health issues. Your vet can show you how to score your puppy. Do puppies need supplements? Should dogs and puppies only eat meat? Although dogs are often considered to be carnivores, they would eat their prey whole in the wild. By eating the guts of their herbivorous and omnivorous prey, they would eat some vegetable matter too. Puppy feeding quiz Test your knowledge and find out how much you've learnt by taking our quiz Start the quiz How often should you feed a three month old puppy? Once a day Three times a day Correct! For all breed sizes, three month old puppies require three equally sized meals a day. Puppies are unable to regulate their food intake, so more regular, smaller portions are gentler on their digestive system. Next question Go back Wrong For all breed sizes, three month old puppies require three equally sized meals a day. Next question. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet. They partner with veterinarians, breeders and other pet experts to recognize the effect of each nutrient as they develop formulas for a particular breed. The breed's lifestyle, life stage needs and the tendency to develop certain health issues are all studies, taking every detail into consideration so your dog can be his most magnificent self. That clear focus steers their research and underpins the quality of the nutrition. Developed Through Science and Research: Royal Canin has over formulas that have been developed by vets and nutritional experts and tested at one of their research facilities. Committed Quality and Safety: Nutritional quality and product safety are at the heart of their operations. With more than , analyses on raw materials and finished products per year, they never compromise on providing your pet effective and precise nutrition. Their obsession with detail is what makes it possible to deliver precise, effective nutrition for a variety of breeds, sizes, lifestyles and health needs.

You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. Maltipoo Puppies For Sale Upstate Ny This makes them a perfect choice for those with allergies or who don't want to deal with a lot of hair around the house. Despite having two purebred parents, the Maltipoo itself is not a purebred dog, which makes it ineligible for American Kennel Club AKC registration. Petite Maltipoos of Westbury in. Very strong healthy cuddly puppies!!! Maltipoos are kind and loving, making them an awesome pal for kids and adults of all ages—and other pets, too! Coat: Malti-Poos have fine, frizzy, wooly. Premier Pups has got you covered. Search results for "maltipoo puppies" Pets and Animals for sale in Albany, Their Maltipoo puppies are born and raised in their home with the. The Maltese is low-shedding as well and also need daily grooming. Our dog breeders come from all 50 states and offer quality. Malti-poos are sweet, loving, energetic dogs. Pick up only Rochester NY area. Age: 12 Weeks Old. Looking for a gorgeous designer Maltipoo puppy for sale near Albany, New York? Craigslist puppies for sale by owner near mesa az. The reason why they make it to the. These adorable pups, a mix of Maltese and Poodle, are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them the perfect addition to any family. This hybrid breed inherits the best traits from both of its parent breeds, making it a friendly, intelligent, and affectionate companion. Visit our store, bond with them in person, and adopt a puppy with us. Adorable Male and Female Maltese Puppies. We have Maltipoo puppies for sale all over New York and the surrounding areas within our Preferable Pups family of breeders. If you are unable to find your Maltese puppy. Browse search results for teacup maltipoo puppies for sale in Albany, NY. Maltipoo, New. Maltipoo Puppy Alumni Finding the perfect Maltipoo puppy has never been easier. They don't shed very much, which makes them great for allergic pet. Maltipoo puppies for sale near Long Island are one of the most hypoallergenic and low-shedding dog breeds available. We make it simple when you are looking for Maltipoo breeders. They are playful not only as puppies but also as adults. These beautiful small dogs are playful, happy, fun, and full of life. Welcome to our page dedicated to adult Maltipoo dogs that have been adopted as puppies from Premier Pups and have grown up in loving homes in Bethlehem, New York! At Premier Pups we work only with the best and most trusted breeders to bring you healthy and happy puppies. Intelligent, gentle and affectionate, these cuddly little teddy bears have been stealing hearts all across the country. Our puppies are raised in our homes located in Upstate, New York. AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! Learn more 68 puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Maltipoo, New York » Albany. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. With 1,'s of puppies for sale and all sorts of breeds, you can rest assure we have what you need. You must pick up your puppy as I do not ship them. Puppies for Sale. Color: Color vary from Poodle Parent. The small Maltipoo puppy has a wooly coat and keen, intelligent eyes. View our selection of Maltipoo pups for sale and bring home your new friend today! Migthy Maltese Migthy Maltese. Our Maltipoos are well-socialized, regularly health-checked, and raised by caring and loving Puppy Agents. Maltipoo puppies for sale at Canine Corral the 1 place on Long Island to buy your new puppy! Interested in finding out more about the Maltipoo? Beautiful parents! When you choose Uptown to help you find puppies for sale in NY state and beyond, we'll connect you with breeders and businesses that are highly flexible in terms of collection arrangements. Maltipoo Puppies for sale in Albany County, ny from top breeders and individuals. Sort Ads - of , Because it is a mixed dog breed, it is not recognized by the American Kennel Club. For Lauren's 11th birthday she was given a puppy to learn at a very young age the importance and love of having a dog in her life. Do you have puppies for sale in… For sure! Poodle hybrids have become very popular in the past few years. Their beautiful white coat is non-shedding and. The standard daily crossword is 15 by 15 squares, while the Sunday crosswor. A landlord must provide written notice of eviction, and in s. Lovely company for everyone, has forever baby face with a short snout, always getting ready to be with his family, playful, energetic, easy with the other dogs. They are up to date on their vaccin. Petland Cicero, NY has Maltipoo puppies for sale! There's some variation with mixed breeds, Grey, black, white, and apricot. Price: .Contact us today to learn more and to reserve your very own Maltipoo puppy. Great personality, very playful! Preferable Pups is always adding new fully screened and healthy Maltipoo puppies. They love to be surrounded by their human family and they never seem to grow old — neither in spirit nor in appearance. Maltipoo Puppies for Sale in NY. The Maltese can serve as a lapdog but it loves to play with humans of all ages. Harvey will come with registration papers, microchipped, vaccinated, dewormed and vet checked. Check out our breed information page! Finding the right puppy for your home can be a daunting task. Come visit us in Huntington NY today. Learn more 62 puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location Color. The downside to their beautiful coats is that they require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. All our Maltipoo are very healthy and good with children and other pets and will come with a Health certificate and 30 Days money back Guarantee. Our love and passion for the cockapoo and schnoodle breeds has increased tremendously over the years as we strive to bring you the finest puppies available. Go ahead and browse our list of dogs for sale below: AKC Golden Retriever Puppies They are AKC papered, dew claws removed, 1st shot and deworming with a health check from the vet and parents on site. Yes, as the name infers, a Maltipoo is essentially a mixed breed or hybrid dog which has a Poodle parent and a. Home-raised, healthy, and beautiful. Temperament: Malti-Poos are intelligent, friendly, loving, loyal affectionate family dogs. Beautiful Maltipoos Puppies Kc Parents new york, albany. Most adult Maltese range from 7" to 9" and. Moderate exercise is fine for this breed. Find a Maltipoo puppy from reputable breeders near you in Albany, NY. Trudy my kennel club registered mini poodle has given birth to 4 gorgeous F1 Maltipoo babies. They love every single puppy they have and take amazing care of them! Maltese puppies for sale. Transportation to Albany, NY available. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Discover more about our Maltipoo puppies for sale near Charlotte, I fell in love with the small fluffy puppy-like breed when I first set eyes on them. Give me a general overview of Maltipoo puppies for sale in New York. Preferable Pups New York Preferable Pups is a breeder network that spans across the United States to connect dog lovers and their future dog. Puppies For Sale Long Island. I always called before hand for an appointment. In total, the state manages about 14, acres of Long Island parks with shoreline access, according to Kahn, a retired financial journalist who owns two golden retrievers, Sophie and Cody. Your support can save the life of a cat or dog. At Island Puppies, we are your source for the healthiest and happiest puppies for sale. Directions Contact Us Online Our team dog breed specialists are ready to help you, anytime and anywhere. German shepherd puppies long island. Posh Pets is empowered by our network of caring foster homes, as well as our No-Kill shelter in Long Island and our Westchester adoption center. I breed for quality, healthy and well-tempered puppies. Our vision is to improve and perfect the breed as defined by the Bulldog Standard. Over a dozen dogs rescued from an Alabama puppy mill are safely on Long Island, thanks to Nesconset-based Paws of War. We are a non-profit, no-kill shelter c 3 organization located in the heart of Long Island, New York founded in by Dori Scofield. All of our dogs for adoption are lookin for a new home. With two locations on Long Island, Shake A Paw guarantees customers the most extensive and diverse selection of puppies. Our puppy store, located in Huntington, Long Island NY, is family owned and operated with over 50 years of puppy experience! All of our puppies are from USDA licensed breeders; however we go beyond the licensing factor and check with the state every 30 days that our breeders are FREE of any direct or indirect violations with the Department of. Nothing would be better than to give a new dog a loving home. Island Puppies has puppies for sale in Long Island and surrounding areas. May 04, , pmUpdated 4m ago. Our puppies come vet checked, with all their vaccines, papers and microchip. Petite Pets is a high-end puppy boutique that has been serving Long Island for over 21 years using the same breeder producing the most healthy and beautiful puppies. Dogs for Sale in Long Island. Maltipoos for Sale in Long Island. We work with dog breeders in Suffolk County and beyond in our dedication to giving your family the best dog possible for you. All of our puppies are from USDA licensed. Our staff is here seven days a week to help you with all aspects of dog ownership. In addition, we host off-site adoption events at multiple New York locations through the use of our mobile adoption vehicle. Puppies for sale Long Island. These puppies will be available on a first come, first choice. The pups will be trained as service animals and matched with veterans and first responders searching for service and companion dogs. Our goal: a no-kill world where all homeless pets find loving homes. Welcome to LongIslandPuppies. Very sweet girl with a great temperament. Store Hours: Due to corona virus are new hours are as follows. Canine Corrals latest puppies for sale Huntington NY. The 14 puppies are part of a group of dogs that were saved from deplorable living conditions. They include safety risks for staff and. Bringing home a Long Island rescue dog is a great way to add some extra love to your life. Selling puppies and kittens. Our passion is exhibiting, breeding and promoting our beloved Bulldogs. HOME .Contact us today for more information at .The 1 Place to buy your new puppy! Canine Corral. Dog ban on Long Island's state beaches could be lifted under …. German shepherd puppies are a large breed that usually stay around 80 lbs. Come visit and find your new best friend. Give us a call or stop in, new pets in need arrive every day. Teacup Shorkiepoo puppy puppies Long Island. We have been providing people across Suffolk and Nassau County with dog adoption opportunities for years and we love each and every person who has adopted one of our dogs. Long Island Puppies For Sale. With two locations on Long Island, The 14 puppies are. Boxer puppies sale Long Island NY. Best health guarantee in the industry! Please complete the form below and a puppy consultant will contact you shortly. Dutchess county putnam valley ny id. The pups will be trained as service animals and matched with veterans and first responders searching for service and. All of our dogs for adoption near. For sure, they're not hand hand raising this quality life-long companion Labrador, one that represents the best qualities of the breed. Your child deserves the best pups at their puppy party! So please be sure you want the puppy or can have it before your purchase or before a non-refundable deposit is. We are the world's largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization. A state parks spokesman declined to comment on the legislation but said dogs are prohibited from Long Island beaches due to numerous management issues. All our breeding dogs are genetically tested and are from champion bloodlines sexxuria. Thank you for asking about our amazing dogs and for understanding about the adoption process. Breeder german shepherd puppies puppies for sale puppies on long island. May 05, , amUpdated 1d ago. Adorable Puppies for Sale. Positions are available with backups for more than 7 available. Our focus on five-star customer service results in matches made in heaven when you. Our award winning bulldogs are a testament to the incredible dogs we provide our clients. We provide spay and neuter services for Long Island feral cats and any necessary medical care for pets. Puppies for Sale — Long Island Labradors. German shepherd dogs adopted on rescue me. Sportsman's Kennels — American puppy breeders. Paws of War rescues 14 dogs from Alabama puppy mill, bring. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Our focus on five-star customer service results in matches made in heaven when you welcome your new canine friend home. She is ready for her new loving home. Contact us today for more information at ! We are supported solely by public donations and every dollar makes a difference. We Love Labrador Puppies Our puppies are loaded with love! These puppies are hand raised in our home and given the best nutrition, exercise, and socialization! At our Long Island animal shelter, we believe it is our moral responsibility to protect and improve the lives of abused, abandoned, and homeless cats and dogs, and to place them in loving permanent homes. Contact us today for more information at ! All our breeding dogs are genetically tested and are from champion bloodlinessexxuria. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. Yorkshire Terrier Puppies For Sale. Shorkiepoo puppy puppies Long Island. It is our intention to provide you with the most current and the latest. What Makes a Pet Posh? Every animal deserves love. The American Boxer Club was established in .Contact Us Monday: ampm Tuesday: ampm. Paws of War rescues 14 dogs from Alabama puppy mill, bring them to Long.

You should see a vet ASAP if you notice this. The earlier you catch the cherry eye, the better the prognosis. When these fibers are weakened due to a genetics, it can lead to the gland popping out of place. Breed is a factor There are some breeds that have a higher genetic predisposition to this tissue fiber weakness. Unfortunately, Frenchies are one of many breeds that are much more susceptible to developing cherry eye than your average dog. The most common age for a Frenchie to develop cherry eye is between 3 months and 2 years old. Complications of Untreated Cherry Eye Left untreated, cherry eye may cause damage to the eye or third eyelid gland which may result in chronic dry eye and irritation. By seeking treatment quickly, and not waiting for the cherry eye to go away on its own, you can very much minimize damage to the eye if any. Why you may ask? Treatment Options When it comes to treating cherry eye, there are typically two types of treatments: surgical and non-surgical. Non-Surgical Believe it or not, sometimes cherry eye can simply go away on its own. If the cherry eye is caught early enough, these might be enough to do the trick. Anti-Inflammatory Eye Drops These eye drops reduce swelling and inflammation, which will help to relieve any pain or discomfort your Frenchie could be experiencing. They also protect against secondary infections. Massage In mild cases, it may be possible to slowly massage the gland back into its proper position. Tucking Method The tucking method is the most common surgical procedure used to treat cherry eye. This technique involves permanently placing a stitch that pulls the gland back into its original position Imbrication Method The imbrication method is one of the newer techniques surgeons use to treat cherry eye. With this technique, a wedge of tissue would be removed from over the gland. Complete removal of the affected gland Completely removing the nictitating gland is the oldest techniques used to treat cherry eye. When should I see my vet? Catching the cherry eye early makes treatment much easier as well, whereas if you waited long, surgery might be necessary. Prognosis As mentioned before, cherry eye is not too serious of a condition. With prompt medical attention and the right treatment, the chances of any serious complications are slim to none. If your veterinarian determines surgery, you can expect healing to be done in about 2 weeks. Posted on. Mastiffs Terriers In general, breeds with shorter muzzles many of whom have brachycephalic syndrome as well as toy breeds and teacup dogs tend to be more likely to experience cherry eye than their longer-nosed, full-sized counterparts. And young dogs—puppies under a year old—are most susceptible as well. Early cherry eye in dogs is fairly easy to spot, Vygantas says. This bulge is typically in the corner nearest the nose and similar in shape and color to a cherry pit, hence the nickname. The condition can occur in one or both eyes. The good news is early-stage cherry eye in dogs isn't painful. In fact, your pup probably won't even know something is wrong. But over time, it can make your dog prone to dry eye and infections , so it shouldn't be ignored. The tear gland in that third eyelid is responsible for about 33 to 66 percent of your dog's overall tear production. When prolapse occurs, the tear duct doesn't function normally. For healthy eyes and overall comfort, it's critical that this gland is preserved and reattached to its proper place. If you suspect your dog has cherry eye, it's important to see your vet as soon as possible. While not a medical emergency, the condition can cause health concerns over time. Left untreated, cherry eye can result in damage to the tear duct and cause chronic dry eye. The gland may also become more swollen over time and restrict blood flow. As swelling makes your dog more uncomfortable, he'll be tempted to scratch or paw at the eye, increasing the likelihood of damage and infection. At your initial vet visit, your veterinarian might prescribe dog-safe eye drops for cherry eye to reduce inflammation. These drops can also provide much-needed moisture for comfort and eye health. But eye drops are not a cure for cherry eye. Usually, the vet-recommended treatment for cherry eye in dogs is surgery to preserve the eyelid. Your vet should be able to preserve and correctly reposition the tear gland with a simple procedure. While it might be tempting to try and avoid surgery, when it comes to cherry eye, ointment and topical treatments won't address the root problem and your pup will likely need surgery later anyway. According to Vygantas, once the gland is out of position, it's unlikely to resolve itself without surgery. Still, even minor surgery can be stress-inducing as a pet owner. But rest assured: cherry eye surgery recovery is typically short and sweet. In fact, most pups are back to normal within a couple of weeks. In the meantime, your pup will have a follow-up appointment or two with her vet to check the surgical site. She'll also need to wear an e-collar aka the cone of shame during recovery to keep her eye safe from scratching, pawing, and infection. Cherry eye is not life-threatening, and the vast majority of dogs go on to live full lives with healthy eyes. If you're wondering if you should get a dog who has cherry eye—either from a rescue or a breeder—there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, it's important to remember cherry eye is not contagious, so it poses no risk to you or other pets. However, surgical treatment of cherry eye can be expensive. Costs range from several hundred to thousands of dollars depending on the breed, your location, and your veterinarian's rates for surgical procedures. And, since as many as 45 percent of dogs that experience cherry eye in one eye will eventually have it in the other, you could very well end up doubling your expenses. The good news is, the simple cherry eye surgery should solve the problem for good. The most common complication of this surgery is the breakdown of the suture line and subsequent re-prolapse of the gland," Vygantas explains. If the suture does fail, another surgery is likely necessary. Still, Vygantas stresses that the condition is not an indicator of poor health or of other underlying conditions. If your pup has cherry eye, there's no reason she can't enjoy a long, happy, healthy life post-treatment. Is it Possible to Prevent Cherry Eye? Unfortunately, there's no way to keep your dog from developing cherry eye. But there are ways to give your pup the best chance at good health. Feed her a good diet and provide lots of exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Schedule an appointment with your vet to make sure she stays up-to-date on all preventative care and vaccinations , and reach out to your vet if you have any concerns about your pup's eye health. Was this page helpful? Cane Corso Boxer Cherry eye is also more common in dogs under two years of age, but dogs of all ages are still at risk of developing cherry eye. Additionally, while you might be most concerned about your French Bulldog, in rare cases, cherry eye can show up in cats as well. Can I prevent cherry eye? The good news, though, is that cherry eye is not transmittable to other people or animals in your home. What home remedies can be used to treat cherry eye? Since cherry eye is a super common condition, there are plenty of home remedies out there. That being said, you should consult your vet before attempting any home remedies. Some people claim the best at-home remedy for cherry eye is leaving it alone since it does not cause extreme pain to the dog, but this can do more harm than good. Leaving cherry eye untreated can lead to pain, damaged tear ducts, or even loss of vision. Warm Washcloth The most common home remedy for cherry eye is a warm washcloth. Before attempting this remedy, make sure you and your French Bulldog are in a calm and relaxed state. While these eye drops can reduce swelling, it is likely only a temporary fix for cherry eyes. Home remedies are good for treating the symptoms of cherry eye and temporarily reducing the swelling; the only way to fully cure cherry eye is surgery. When should I seek professional care? Cherry eye is not considered a medical emergency, but you should still consult your vet as soon as you notice it. Cherry eye that is left untreated can cause chronic dry eye, increased risk of infection, or permanent vision damage. As we mentioned above, your vet may start by prescribing anti-inflammatory eye drops. Eventually, the cherry eye will be back. The most effective treatment for cherry eye is a minimally invasive surgery to reposition the eye gland. Note that this surgery will not remove the eye gland, only reposition it back where it should be. If the surgery goes well, your dog will need to be reseen in weeks. In most cases, surgery is enough to prevent cherry eye from coming back. In rarer cases, your dog may develop cherry eye again and require further surgery. Call your vet when you first notice a cherry eye, and be sure to prevent your dog from scratching too much at their eye until you can seek medical care. She has two rescue dogs. It will have the appearance of a cherry and be sticking out of the corner. This is known as cherry eye. What causes this is not well-known but it is usually able to be treated by a veterinarian. Cherry eye in your French Bulldog occurs when they experience a prolapse of the third gland in their eyelid. Most French Bulldogs have a third eyelid which is located inside their lower eyelid. However, it is possible for this third gland to pop out or prolapse. When this happens, the condition is known as cherry eye. What are the Symptoms of Cherry Eye? The symptoms of cherry eye in your French Bulldog will be obvious. Your dog will be pawing and scratching their eye. It will be red, dry as well as irritated. They will be squinting, have excessive tear production, abnormally dry eyes and more. It could also be small and only periodically be visible. Do you need to worry? French Bulldog cherry eye is not fatal. However, it will cause your dog to experience significant amounts of discomfort. They may claw at their eye resulting in corneal ulcers. Your French Bulldog will have dry itchy eyes causing them to experience inflammation and discomfort. This could also cause them to experience increasing levels of pain. Many believe French Bulldog cherry eye is a congenital disorder. It may be passed from one generation to another, but not everyone agrees with this theory. It is common for it to occur with dogs two years old or younger. There is no agreement among dog experts on exactly what causes cherry eye in French Bulldogs, but it is one of the breeds that statistically have a higher chance of developing this condition. It could involve surgical or non-surgical methods as well as a combination of both. There are effective massage techniques that are able to eliminate the protrusion. When this is successful, the gland of the nictitating membrane will go back into place. However, this massage technique requires constant monitoring by a veterinarian. Buy on Amazon Here One surgical solution involves an attachment procedure. In cases where the cherry eye is chronic, a veterinarian may have no option but to remove the gland. This will only be done if the function of the gland has been significantly diminished or it is no longer working. Some Frenchie owners have found the topical application of Antimicrobial Ophthalmic Gel can help relieve the symptoms associated with cherry eye, so if you are concerned about taking the surgical route, this may be a good starting point. However, up to twenty percent of French Bulldogs will have a relapse of their third eyelid gland. This could require them to have additional surgery. When your Frenchie has a prolapse in one eye, they will often have a prolapse in their other eye. Wrap French Bulldogs are born with three eyelids. In most situations, this condition will happen when your French Bulldog is still young. Pin 0 Shares Cherry eye is a relatively common condition that afflicts many French Bulldogs. The medical name for it is a prolapsed nictitans gland. It is very unpleasant to look at and will be uncomfortable for your Frenchie. It can be treated with both surgical and non-surgical options. But what exactly is it and how do French Bulldogs get cherry eye? And more importantly, what can you do about it and is there an easy fix aside from surgery? It will include the symptoms, potential issues and the treatments that can be done to correct it. What is cherry eye? While we humans only have two eyelids an upper and lower lid , dogs actually have three eyelids: an upper, lower, but also a third eyelid that comes up from underneath their lower eyelid when closed. This third eyelid designed to give their eyes an extra layer of protection, as well as producing tears to wash the eye out and keep it clear of sties and irritants. Humans used to have a third eyelid, known as the nictitating membrane, but this has since become obsolete, noticeable only in the small pink lump seen in the corner of your eye near your nose. In dogs, however, this eyelid is still useable, acting like a windscreen wiper and closing along with the other lids. It is not only nasty to look at, but it also prevents the third eyelid from working properly, potentially leading to further eye problems. How do French bulldogs get cherry eye problems? However, most vets and experts believe that French Bulldogs get cherry eye due to hereditary and congenital reasons. Congenital disorders are passed down through bloodlines, meaning that the puppies of a dog with cherry eye is more likely to get it in the future. Other reasons why Frenchies could get cherry eye can be due to them having weakness in the eye area or possibly environmental conditions that lead to allergic swelling and reactions. According to research conducted by the Royal Veterinary College visit website , a prolapsed nictitans gland cherry eye occurs in 2. The research also uncovered that cherry eye was slightly more common in male Frenchies, with 2. What does cherry eye look like in French bulldogs? Cherry eye is simple enough to spot and diagnose. This is a classic example of what cherry eye looks like in a French Bulldog. Cherry eye gets its name rather aptly from the protrusion itself. The exposed part of the third eyelid becomes lumpy, red and shiny due to exposure and irritation, resembling a cherry. Some cases of French Bulldog cherry eye are bigger than others, although this can vary on a case-by-case basis and also depends on the size of the dog and the size of their eyes. French Bulldog cherry eye symptoms The symptoms of cherry eye are mostly very obvious; the red cherry eye itself being the biggest indicator. It will start to appear as a reddish lump protruding from the edge of the eye that is often inflamed, giving it its name. Depending on the size of the prolapsed nictitans gland, it could easily cover a large area of the eye or be relatively small. Regardless of its size, it can cause major discomfort and distress for your French Bulldog. You may also notice your Frenchie dog pawing at and scratching their face, as well as shaking their head in an attempt to dislodge the thing they can feel in their eye. Here are those symptoms and signs to look out for: Pawing and scratching at the affected eye area. Red and dry looking eye. Excessive squinting and blinking. How do you fix a French Bulldog cherry eye? How you treat Frenchie cherry eye will depend on the size of the condition. Fixing a cherry eye can require surgery in the most serious cases, with ointment and massage working for less severe conditions. Treatments for cherry eye There are a few different ways of treating cherry eye, depending on its size. Some treatments are more invasive than others, although which one is best for your Frenchie will be up to you and the recommendation of your vet. However, the only way of actually getting rid of the cherry eye completely is through surgery. The surgery usually results in the vet returning the gland back to its normal place inside the eyelid. This is done by either stitching the gland back into place, creating a new pocket in the eyelid to contain the gland or removing it altogether. If the tear gland has to be removed, your dog will have to be treated long-term with artificial tears to prevent further eye conditions. The longer you leave cherry eye, the harder it will be to correct; so, the sooner you bring your dog in to receive treatment the better. How do you massage a cherry eye? A non-surgical treatment often touted as a home remedy for cherry eye is massaging it back into place. This is seen as an easier, cheaper and less stressful alternative to surgery. This usually only works for cases caught very early on as the membrane is still strong enough to contain the gland once it is returned to place. Over time the connecting tissue will grow weaker and be unable to hold the gland in place. Because of this, it is highly recommended that you go and get your dog checked out by a vet as soon as possible in order to get the best recovery outcome. The technique for massaging cherry eye uses a combination of things, including massages, compresses and eye drops, that help you to encourage the prolapsed gland to return to its normal place. This is done by applying warm compresses and light pressure to the lower eyelid, pushing towards the nose, to pop the gland back into place. The gland may pop out again later on, although some owners have found it returns to place permanently after one or two tries. If you have noticed that your Frenchie is suffering from cherry eye, take them to see your vet immediately and ask them about treatment options, as well as advice about massaging if you are worried about causing damage. Disclaimer: Please only ever attempt massage after asking your vet how to do it properly. What happens if cherry eye goes left untreated? As previously mentioned, leaving a cherry eye go untreated for a long period of time can result not only in it being harder to treat through both home remedy and surgical options. The connecting tissue between the gland and the eyelid will gradually grow weaker, resulting in the eyelid no longer being strong enough to contain the gland without it prolapsing again later on. You should not leave cherry eye go untreated altogether either, as this can result in further complications that cause your dog discomfort. Can cherry eye in dogs cause blindness? This can lead to reduced vision and even total blindness in the affected eye. This condition is usually a life-long one, but you can help prevent it from occurring in your dog by treating cherry eye as soon as you spot it. Additionally, this surgery may have to be performed again if the prolapse occurs again. While it is a last-case resort, the removal of the prolapse is sometimes required if the gland is unable to be held in place by the eyelid. However, these prices are only guidelines and can vary depending on your vet. For a more personalised estimate on the cost of surgery and other treatment options, please speak to your vet. Conclusion French Bulldogs are one of the breeds most prone to the cherry eye condition, along with other bulldog breeds, Cavaliere King Charles Spaniels, Pugs and Terries. Our Frenchie has never had this condition, and the guidance on this page has been researched having spoken to our vet and other Frenchie owners — you should always consult with your own trusted vet for advice. Open 7 Days Eye Problems Due to their short faces, large eyelid openings and large eyes, our squashy faced friends are predisposed to several eye problems. At Melbourne Bulldog Clinic we are experts in diagnosis and management of these conditions, and commonly perform surgical correction where required. Cherry Eye Cherry eye is a swelling of the gland behind the third eyelid , resulting in protrusion of the gland as a reddish mass. French and British bulldogs are particularly prone to this condition. It most commonly occurs in young dogs, and will often occur in the other eye some time afterwards. In most cases, and especially if the cherry eye is recurrent, surgery is the recommended treatment. The everted gland is reduced into a pocket in the back of the third eyelid and sutured in place. This procedure has a high success rate. Entropion and Ectropion Entropion is a condition where the eyelids it can be upper, lower or often both roll in towards the eye. Hairs rubbing on the cornea results in irritation, pain and discharge. Ectropion is a condition where the eyelids roll out due to excess eyelid tissue, and results in exposure of the conjunctiva, irritation and discharge. Thank fully, both conditions are surgically correctable. English Bulldogs are particularly prone to both these conditions. Brachycephalic Ocular Syndrome Many brachycephalic dogs are unable to completely blink over their enlarged eyeballs, resulting in exposure and drying of the cornea the surface of the eyeball. Pugs are particular risk breeds for this condition. Components of brachycephalic ocular syndrome include: 1. Entropion — This is where the eyelid rolls in, resulting in hairs causing irritation to the cornea. It most commonly affects the inside of the lower eyelid. Epiphora watery eyes and tear staining — Occurs due to abnormal draining of the tear ducts. Trichiasis and distichiasis — Abnormal, extra eyelashes that curl in and irritate the cornea. Reduced corneal sensitivity — This can delay recognition of problems causing irritation to the cornea, and can also impair healing of corneal wounds. Tear deficiencies — Decreased tear production further exacerbates corneal injuries, and causes drying of the cornea. Shallow orbits eye sockets — This results in less protection of the eyeball which, combined with a larger eyeball size, means that the eye itself is more exposed, and more prone to trauma or drying out. The ideal treatment for brachycephalic ocular syndrome is a surgery called medial canthoplasty — this involves closing down the inside corner of the eyelid opening, and results in decreasing the size of the eyelid opening, everting entropion of the inside lower lid, improved tear duct drainage ability, and improved eyeball coverage and blinking. The overall result is greater protection of the eyeball from trauma and drying out. What are the signs to look for? Eyes can change quite quickly which means they often respond quickly to the correct treatment, and also means they can worsen quickly without medical attention. If you are unsure, please give us a call. We are always happy to advise.

Why Adopt Goldendoodles? Abandoned, stray, or neglected dogs that ended in shelters are a growing problem. Did you know approximately 3. This is the single most important reason why adopting Goldendoodles is necessary. Top Reasons to Adopt Goldendoodles Here are the top reasons why you should consider adopting Goldendoodles. Standard adoption fees vary by dog breed, demand, and other factors. Nonetheless, adopting a pup costs significantly less than buying one from a breeder. Adopting a Goldendoodle typically may save you some veterinary costs like spending on spay or neuter surgery, initial vaccinations, microchipping, and other fees. Typically, you need to put in an application to take a rescue Goldendoodle home. Goldendoodle rescues or shelters are non-profit organizations filled with Goldendoodles looking to be rehomed. Finding a Goldendoodles rescue can take some time, but there are quite a few across the U. Top Goldendoodle Rescues For Adoption The following is a comprehensive list of Goldendoodle rescues where you can potentially find Goldendoodles looking to be adopted. From mini Goldendoodles and Goldendoodle puppies to retired Goldendoodles and Teddy Bear Goldendoodle, these are the top places to get your hands on one of the most popular hybrid breeds today. This helps the organizations better understand you, and to ensure they match the perfect dog with the correct individual. But this application can take time. They need various pieces of information to help them make a decision about whether or not to match their dogs. The Information They Need First, they want to know about your family and where you live. They must know the type of house you live in to see if it fits in with what the dog needs. At times, a home inspection is required. Also, they must have proof that you can care for a dog in your home. This means landlords must offer evidence that you will not go against your lease if you adopt a dog. Also, it helps if you have previous experience caring for animals. At that point, a recommendation from a vet who has experience with you does help your application. Taking Your Dog Home Finally, if successful, you need to prepare to take your new dog home. However, when they get there, make sure you give space and time to allow them to adjust. See if the rescue organization offers any advice on how to help your dog settle. They will find all of this overwhelming, so anything you can do to make the transition process easier helps. At times, organizations do provide training to new owners. Once again, we recommend you take them up on this offer to ensure you and your new dog get on exceptionally well right from the outset. Also, if you have any concerns, then most organizations then allow you to contact them for a short period of time after the adoption. However, this is not always the case, so know if this is an option for you before completing the application. Overall, adopting a Mini Goldendoodle is a wonderful thing to do. However, you may encounter a waiting period before one becomes available. This happens thanks to the fact that Mini Goldendoodles never stay in these organizations for long before being adopted out. Sharing is caring!

Breeds The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and for a good reason. They make wonderful family pets due to their friendly personalities, endless loyalty, and high intelligence. However, before bringing one into your home, it is essential to consider the costs associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In this article, we'll explore the question, "How much does a Golden Retriever cost? The overall price of a Golden Retriever can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the dog's age, lineage, and location. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that buying a puppy is just the beginning of the expenses associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In addition to the initial price, routine vet visits and vaccinations are necessary to keep your Golden Retriever healthy and prevent illnesses. These costs can add up quickly, especially in the first year of your dog's life when they require more frequent check-ups and vaccines. Your dog will typically require annual check-ups and routine vaccinations throughout their life. You can also choose to microchip your pet for additional security measures. Another ongoing expense associated with owning a Golden Retriever is grooming. While Golden Retrievers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming compared to some other breeds, they do require regular brushing and occasional baths. So, you will need to set aside adequate funds for this care. A Golden Retriever puppy cost can vary. The overall price will depend on whether you choose to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a rescue organization. However, it is essential to note that some breeders will charge more for puppies that have exceptional bloodlines or rare coat colors. If you choose to adopt a Golden Retriever puppy from a rescue organization, the adoption fee is usually much lower than the purchase price from a breeder. It is important to note that adoption fees will usually cover the cost of veterinary care, food, and shelter for the puppy while in the rescue organization's care. Often if you choose to adopt from a rescue or dog shelter, the pet will come into your family already spayed or neutered and up to date on all vaccinations. Color One of the most significant factors is the color of the puppy. Golden Retrievers typically come in shades of gold, but some may have a slightly darker or lighter coat, which can create variations in their price. For instance, puppies with lighter-colored coats may be more expensive than those with darker coats. Bloodline Puppies with a pedigree from a well-known champion bloodline are often more expensive than those without a proven lineage. This cost difference is because they are likely to have a superior appearance, temperament, and overall health characteristics. Often dogs from such lineage come with documentation and official paperwork to verify their background. A quality breeder who has invested time and resources in breeding and raising quality Golden Retrievers may charge a higher price for their puppies. This reason is that they are more likely to provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Estimated Size Finally, the estimated size of the puppy can impact the cost. Typically, male Golden Retrievers are larger than females, and puppies from larger litters may be smaller than those from smaller litters. Owing to that, puppies from a smaller litter may be more expensive as they tend to be in higher demand. Overall, it is essential to consider all of these factors when looking to purchase a Golden Retriever to ensure that you get the best value for your money. As we've discussed, the cost of purchasing and maintaining a Golden Retriever can quickly add up. However, investing in a GPS-tracking dog collar is one way to protect your investment in your furry friend. A GPS-tracking dog collar can help make sure that your Golden Retriever doesn't wander too far from home or get lost. This feature is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of traffic or wildlife, where your dog could be at risk of injury or getting into dangerous situations. A GPS tracking dog collar can help you quickly locate your dog if they do manage to escape, allowing you to bring them home safely and quickly. No doubt a GPS-tracking dog collar is an additional expense, but it can provide peace of mind and protection for your furry friend, making it a worthwhile investment for any Golden Retriever owner. It can give you the confidence to let your dog explore and play freely while still being able to keep an eye on their location and well-being. Incorporating the Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar into your Golden Retriever's routine can help ensure their safety and security while enjoying all the joys of owning this beloved breed. The collar has a long battery life and is water-resistant, making it durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The collar also offers activity tracking, which can help you monitor your dog's exercise habits and ensure they are getting enough physical activity to stay healthy. Golden Retriever Breed Guide The Golden Retriever is a popular breed known for being friendly and having an affectionate personality. They are intelligent, eager to please, and have a gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. They are typically very patient with children and get along well with other animals, making them an ideal companion for families with kids or other pets. Golden Retrievers are considered to be a medium to large breed in terms of size and weight. Males typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand in inches between 23 to .Alternatively, females weigh between 55 pounds to 65 pounds and stand in inches between .Golden Retrievers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 14 years. Golden Retrievers are an active breed. They frequently require multiple sessions of daily exercise to stay in peak shape. They enjoy many types of outdoor activities, including swimming, fetch, and hiking. These dogs make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, they can also adopt a more laid-back lifestyle if they don't receive regular exercise. The lifetime care costs of a Golden Retriever will often depend on factors such as their health, age, and lifestyle. Budgeting for these costs and planning accordingly to ensure that your furry friend receives the care they need throughout their lifetime is essential. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Golden Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog can be significantly less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder, and it also helps to reduce the number of dogs in shelters. Another way to save money is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may have already gone through the training process, which can save on the cost of obedience classes and training supplies. They may also be less demanding in terms of exercise and may already be house-trained, which can save on cleaning and flooring expenses. When buying a Golden Retriever puppy, it's crucial to find a breeder who will always prioritize the health and life quality of their dogs. A breeder should be able to provide you with health guarantees, documentation of the puppy's lineage, and proof of vaccinations and other necessary medical treatments. Moreover, it's also a good idea to visit the breeder's facility and meet the puppy's parents, if possible, to get a sense of the breeding environment and the temperament of the puppies. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option when buying a Golden Retriever, doing so can lead to additional expenses down the line if the puppy develops health problems that require expensive medical treatment. A reputable breeder may have higher upfront costs but is more likely to produce healthy puppies with fewer genetic health issues. This initial extra cost can ultimately save you money and heartache in the long run. By taking the time to research breeders and consider all options carefully, you can save on the initial cost of owning a Golden Retriever while still providing a loving home for a furry companion. Conclusion: The Cost of Owning a Golden Retriever In conclusion, owning a Golden Retriever can be a fulfilling experience, but it is crucial to consider the upfront and ongoing costs that are commonly associated with owning one. By understanding the factors that impact the price tag of a Golden Retriever and exploring ways to reduce those costs, you can ensure that you are providing the best care for your furry friend without breaking the bank. Lastly, you will want to consider how to protect your newest family member and the investment that comes with them. The Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar is a cutting-edge style of technology that offers dog owners an extra layer of protection for their furry friends. The collar uses GPS technology to track your dog's location in real time and sends alerts to your phone if your dog leaves a designated safe zone. This feature can be beneficial in the event that your Golden Retriever ever goes missing or wanders off, giving you the ability to quickly and easily locate them. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. This will allow your veterinarian to become more comfortable and familiar with your dog, making it easier for them to detect unusual changes. Aside from vet bills, pet insurance is an important investment that most dog owners tend to ignore. You may not be able to avoid employing the services of pet daycares, dog walkers, and others if you are going out of town or busy with work. These kinds of services are becoming increasingly popular these days. Your pet will be cared for by trained pet handlers at pet daycares. Travel Expenses: If you enjoy traveling with your Golden Retriever, you may need to pay some extra fees because many hotels do not allow pets. Dog Training: This breed has a high level of intelligence. With the right puppy training, your puppy should be able to learn a variety of tricks. Basic obedience training and socialization are important for a growing Golden puppy. Emergency Medical Treatment: Medical emergencies cannot always be avoided. Of course, these scenarios typically come at a high cost. This breed is recommended to visit a professional groomer once every 8 to 10 weeks. All these potential expenses are optional, except for emergency medical treatment. You can learn how to avoid these fees entirely as you go, which will save you even more money if you want to be practical. Make sure to talk to the breeder before adopting or buying, as not all breeders have the best intention for their puppies. They also raise funds for canine health research. Their puppies are sold with a contract for neutering or spaying as well as a registration from the American Kennel Club. This means that the quality of their dog is in their best interests. Sun-Golden Kennels — This Golden Retriever breeder operating in Wisconsin raises all of their dogs in their home, so the temperament is fairly balanced. They allow their dogs to run around inside their home and sleep beside their bed to socialize with them. They also involve them in activities such as playing ball, hiking, and swimming with other dogs. The rescue organization also houses other breeds such as the Labrador Retriever and mixed breeds like the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle aside from Golden Retrievers. Their dogs are ready for adoption and have undergone health screenings, rabies vaccinations, heartworm vaccinations, deworming, neutering, and flea and tick treatment. This shelter is open to long-distance adoption in collaboration with other regional rescue groups, as long as the adoptive family meets specific guidelines and conditions. These fees are usually used by rescues for vet bills, registration papers, and other expenses for their dogs. You can also check out our compiled list of reputable Golden Retriever breeders and rescue organizations that house purebred Golden Retrievers to help you with your search for your perfect dog. You may also want to read our ultimate dog adoption guide to ace your adoption application at any of the rescues listed above. Here are some money-saving tips for Golden Retriever owners: Make your own food and treats. Instead of buying store-bought dog food and treats for your Golden, you can learn how to make them yourself. Recommended dog food for the Golden Retriever includes chicken , healthy whole grain meals, approved veggies and fruits, and unseasoned and natural ingredients. Consider home grooming. Grooming a Golden does not have to be a difficult chore. Grooming Golden Retrievers cost a fortune when brought to a professional groomer. Your dog does not require as much grooming as many other breeds. The simple task of brushing and combing their coat will keep shedding under control and the buildup of mats and tangles at bay. Bring them to the vet regularly and keep an eye out for accidents. Because vet bills can be pricey, you must ensure that your Goldie does not suffer from any significant illnesses or injuries. Try training your own dog. Paying for dog trainers may cost you more money. If you do not want to participate in dog shows or contests, it is preferable to train your Golden yourself. This would save you a few bucks while also providing a bonding opportunity for you and your Golden. Choose quality dog supplies. It is recommended that first-time dog owners get high-quality products for their dogs. Choosing a cheaper item may end up costing you more in the long run because you may need to replace it on a regular basis. You can save money where you can, but make sure your Goldie receives the care and attention it deserves. Always remember that a healthy dog is a happy dog. A healthy Golden Retriever is not hard to maintain. With the right mindset, you could keep your pooch in tip-top shape while saving money. Keep in mind that expenses may vary based on the lifestyle you keep for your Golden. By ensuring their good health and condition as well as applying practical money-saving tips, raising a Golden Retriever is not a difficult task. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog.

Our Mini Goldendoodles are perfect for the individuals that live in a smaller home or condo, but still want a Goldendoodle - in a smaller body. Our Doodles are highly intelligent and are easily trained; however, an obedience class is recommended for all new puppy owners. We vet our families carefully as each and every puppy is special and deserves the best life possible. OR join our Waitlist, which means when a puppy comes available we will send out a mass email and it will be first come first serve. And will have a litter of F1 first generation Goldendoodles. There is still room on Paris's reserve list for this litter! Her reserve list still has space available. Upcoming Miniature Litters Mini Goldendoodles!! Shay currently has a litter of 7 beautiful babies, girls and boys are still available. Tia also has a litter with puppies available! This is Tia's first litter and she is a great momma. She has very diverse colours and markings. There is still space on all of their reserve lists. Zoey and Annie are both expecting! Puppies coming in September - reserve yours today! Email us for information on all our reserve lists and waitlists. Firstly, you need to remember that your puppy has only had 1 vaccination and therefore, it is very dangerous to take the puppy out to public places where a lot of people will be tempted to touch him or her. Also, do not take them to any public grass areas such as dog parks until the puppy has received all of their vaccines this puts the puppy at risk of contracting issues from other animals. Hold and cuddle the puppy as much as you can to help with the bonding and they will learn to want cuddles. Expect that there will be a few accidents until they learn the acceptable dog run area. Expect that when you put the puppy in the crate for the night, they will whimper and cry. Be patient, just talk to them and reassure them that they are not alone. Every night it will get better! And when the puppy wakes and begins to whimper in the middle of the night — RUN, they need to pee! Remember, they are just babies and every day will get easier. Now that you have heard all the negatives, there are lots of positives! Expect all the love and kisses you can handle!! That sweet little face is all yours. Week 2 1. By now the puppy should have stopped crying or whimpering at bed time, if not they will soon. They will learn your routine and find comfort in it. Remember to call the Veterinary clinic to book an appointment for their next vaccination. This needs to be done in weeks after the first one in order to help build their immune system. Continue to be vigilant with your training, we know that not everyone can work from home so when you are not with the pup ensure they are in a pen or enclosed area with food, water, an area for potty time and somewhere to play and sleep. Previous Litters If you're interested in seeing some photos of our previous or more recent litters, please see our "Fur Family Fotos" by clicking the link below. Reservation fees are non refundable unless we do not have enough puppies available. Puppy selection does not take place in person. You will receive puppy updates and videos leading up to selection. You can also follow the litter daily on our social media. Our puppies go to their forever families starting week 9 for families with adult children. Week 10 pups go home to families with kids you will thank me. Not all pups go home on the same day. Otherwise I find my moms get depressed. We are very firm on restrictions and precautions. There will be no visitation of puppies. You will meet your puppy on pickup day at approximately weeks. We will follow the appropriate Parvovirus precautions at your pick up appointment. To be blunt, if this happened, all of the puppies would die a horrible and suffering death. Parvovirus lives in the dirt on the ground. You would have no way of knowing that you were in contact with it. We are very active in social media with multiple daily posts to follow your puppy. As well, you will receive a minimum of one personal puppy update weekly. Our adult dogs are DNA tested to rule out potential genetic defects or illnesses that could be passed to our pups and come with a clear DNA pannel screen. Their X-rays have been scrutinized by the OFA and have positive rankings. Puppies will NOT be sold with breeding rights. Puppies are also sold on a Strict Spay-Neuter Contract. The contract is Strictly enforced. If either is a problem for you, we are not a good fit and our puppies are not for you. It was so neat. Their momma eagerly awaiting their arrival was so magical. I was moved and felt so profoundly honored to support the little family. The ease of her births was beautiful. She seemed focused and went inside to a place of knowing and gained her strength from there each time and came back to earth in time to quickly catch her own young and clean the birthing from them. Between births she would check on each pup cleaning them repeatedly, stimulating their systems reminding, comforting and caring instinctively. She was motherhood brilliance. Her mom, who has also given birth that morning by c-section, was there and also her grandmother. I could not have imagined a more beautiful scene. The young momma birthing her pups so loved and cared for. She was so proud and happy. Ready and excited for puppies to care for and nurture. Shannon was so caring and attentive. Assisting each pup to take that first breath with ease. Clearing the tiny system for new input from the world. She used surgical precision to unbind the pup from momma. With wisdom and skill she would look over the pup, declare the gender and start to carefully and vigorously rub its whole body with a towel. Tiny puppy sounds and more life would come into their bodies, as they heard the grand wake up call to life. Experiencing the new found freedom of movement outside the wet crowded puppy pile they had just come from. Once life had fully come into that tiny body Shannon would give the pup over to momma for inspection and further clean up. Momma cherished the new pup and went on to adjust and await, once again clearing the path for life anew. The puppy pile grew and grew. Each new life adding to the family. Momma curled her fore paw back towards the pups, cuddling them in, securing her place as momma, nurture and protector as generations before her. Social Media. Website: Oodles of Doodles 2. The breeder is among the best Goldendoodle breeder in Alberta and at present raising F1B Goldendoodles. These breeders have 33 acres of the rolling hill with many walking trails that are beautiful. This is so that the dogs get proper training and exercise and can run and play freely. Their major focus is on breeding and raising dogs that have exceptional personalities and temperaments. They are striving to find wonderful homes for these puppies, where they can live happily forever. The breeders expose their puppies to children, cats and horses and great attention is also paid to their socialization. These are small scale breeders that have only a few litters in a year so you have to check first if there is any puppy available. They started the breeding program just because of the amazing traits of Goldendoodle dogs. These breeders have extended their breeding program to Australian Labradoodles and Goldendoodles to produce Double doodles. They raise their dogs inside homes so you can expect a high-quality family-oriented puppy from these dogs. When the puppies are old enough, they bring them outside to explore their spacious fenced yards. The most important factors they care about is the health and temperament of puppies. All these tests are done just to ensure that the resulting puppy is completely healthy and there are no genetic issues as well. The breeders are also providing lifetime support to families who get their puppies from them. Location: Magrath, Alberta, Canada. ColioCo Doodles Another popular Goldendoodle breeder located in Alberta and producing multigenerational standard-sized Goldendoodle puppies. On average these dogs will weigh around 40 to 65 pounds so you can have an idea about their size. Their puppies are raised inside homes where they receive love, care and attention all the time. These puppies are just like a part of the family. The puppies are provided with enough training and proper socialization with other Goldendoodle puppies. They are cuddles and handled by family members regularly who also play with them. It has been 10 years since these breeders have started the breeding program and are very experienced now. The breeders have also developed a strong family bloodline. Goldendoodle dogs make great family pets as they are social, friendly and are wonderful with the children. These dogs can also be trained as hunting or service dogs. Goldendoodle Breeder Info:. Showing 1 - 40 of 55 resultsPage 1 - 55 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Strathcona County Ready to go home!!! You can follow us on Instagram at thedoodlefamily57 or check out our website at thedoodlefamily. Albert F1bb Goldendoodles for sale. These puppies are old sold but there will be another litter born early October. We can put you on wait list if you like. Mom is Goldendoodle and dad is a Moyen poodle. Urgent F2 Goldendoodles - Ready now! Calgary Born on June 27th and ready for new homes now. Litter of 8: 1 boy available. All puppies have been socialized with people, other dogs and our family cat. Parents F2B and F1B pictured below. First shots. All well socialized, confident, and friendly. We've gotten to know Moana to be a bundle of happiness and curiosity! Quick to jump in and tag along in any activity. One boy available! Ready to go! These little guys are super sweet, laid back and loving puppies! True minis. Mom is 14 lb.Albert 9 week old doodles looking for their furever homes they have been socialized around humans of all sizes kids included , have been raised around cats, cows, and mom and dad are both available to see.Rosie has had her ultrasound and there are alot of puppies in her belly! This litter will due the second.There is 1 male and 3 females, each with individual markings and characteristics. Mom is a purebred tan Goldendoodle and Dad is a.Dad is a 30lb moyen poodle full of fun and personality. He is.There are 6 girls and 4 boys. Some pups are already super curly and others are pretty wavy. Maggie is a Goldendoodle and Merle is a purebred.Edmonton Please read whole ad before responding.Ready to go home on Saturday, September 16th. They have.Teddy is a bundle of love and joy, and.Genesis, our mom, is a purebred Golden Retriever. She is playful, sweet and always wants to be around us. The parents are a mini Aussiedoodle mom and mini Goldendoodle dad. We currently have five beautiful girls and one.We have one litter of F1 Goldendoodles per year. Ready to go in Now! There are 2 girls and 5 boys! We are accepting reservations for these stunning.Lethbridge We have 8 Golden doodle Puppies that will be ready for their forever homes September 18th. She is the second smallest pup of a 10 puppy litter. Strathcona County Our Summer litter. Will be taking responses very seriously!!! Wonderful dog. He's been around kids, cats and other dogs. We are sad to rehome, and we never thought we would. I am a senior widow, experiencing mobility problems, and can no longer look after her as well as she deserves. Comes with absolutely everthing she.Mom is purebred bernese mountain, and Dad was a black golden doodle. Both parents have quiet dispositions, love people, cats, Very easy to train they will mature around lbs. There are 2 chocolate and 1 apricot males. Calgary 1st and 2nd vaccine will be completed today along with a second vet visit! Aurora is a beautiful dog awaiting her new living home. Golden Retriever personality with less shedding! Very loving.They have that well known, calm, loving, patient, and willing attitude. They're intimating in size for lots of people, but they're actually just big and cuddly. We are asking for the black puppies and for the parti pups white with black patches These gorgeous puppies are raised indoors, underfoot.Who we are and what we do.Heartland Golden Doodles is an established breeder.Please Contact 3 year old golden doodle Red Deer This beautiful baby has warmed our heart and given us amazing snuggles but unfortunately is just not a good fit for our family. This was meant to be my sons dog and he is not in a place to take her.We have been responsibly raising goldendoodles since .Our beautiful, non shed, hypo allergenic, medium sized goldendoodle pups are ready to go Sept 12males and females, they will.She comes from GoldenRidge doodles in the Ardrossan area. Excellent recall and good to.Camrose Look at these precious little bundles of fur! We have beautiful gold and red coloured puppies. They are an F1 cross, mom is a golden retriever and dad is a poodle. Female puppies should grow to be

More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Having a dog helps teach responsibility to children. Caring for the dog will teach children that their pet is dependent on them for food and exercise and love. Dogs require a lot of care; they need to be fed, walked, played with and trained. Children come to understand that dogs have to learn discipline in order to be pleasant around the family and others. Children come to appreciate discipline by observing how important it is in their dog. Having a dog teaches children patience, commitment and selflessness. Caring for a dog takes a great deal of responsibility. Children learn to be less focused on themselves and more patient with others. Responsibility is a key factor in leadership development in children, and one of the best ways of learning responsibility is in the home with the family dog. Being responsible for a dog teaches children valuable life lessons. The lessons that children learn from having a dog are priceless and may just help in being successful in life and in a career. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Between and , the population of the town grew .Current town growth is a result of these such developments, which primarily attract high-income families relocating from Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and New York City Nickname: Diamond Town of the Diamond State Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! Cedar Creek Labradors started breeding in ! Our love for the breed expanded in to be able to share our own personal hunting Labs. We are focused on producing quality AKC Labrador puppies with health, sound structure, looks, temperament and trainability as a priority. We are located in Delaware and own both English and American Labradors. Our goal is to continue improving the Labrador breed within the AKC Standards starting with the improvement our own puppies during each specially paired breeding! We help in matching each potential family with the best suited puppy by suggesting upcoming parents with temperaments and pedigrees to match their individual needs. Please Find us on Facebook! In we added French Bulldogs to our program! Many years with a huge love for the breed I couldn't withhold any longer! Such a great decision as their comical personalities have melted our hearts! Our puppies page contains information on upcoming litters, pictures, availability and placing deposits! Take a look at our Available page to see Dogs, Older puppies or Rescues Currently available along with information on our Boarding rates and Training. We are now working with a finance company if you need help with your payment we can email an application! Visitors are not permitted within all areas and must sanitize upon entering our property. We have to use precautions to keep our young puppies safe. All visitors are by appointment only to allow us family time as well as individualized time with any other visitors. We also must prepare by putting our dogs up in advance. Our dogs and puppies are all on NuVet Plus Vitamins. We highly recommend this product! We can not express enough how important it is to continue the use of this product! After seeing the results of NuVet and NuJoint on our personal dogs we hope to have all puppy buyers continue to use this product and it is required in order to participate in our 26 month puppy guarantee!

Also known as the Bull Pug, this medium-sized dog has a stocky and muscular build that is brought about by crossbreeding. Oftentimes, it is referred to as a miniature Bulldog because it is the spitting image of its parent. Note that this is just a nickname. This Pug Bulldog mix is the offspring of two popular dog breeds. You may be familiar with the English Bulldog and Pug because they are unique in terms of their physical appearance. English Bulldog History You probably know the English Bulldog as it is quite remarkable because of its wrinkled face. This medium-sized Mastiff-type dog traces its roots back to England, as its name suggests. Originally bred for bull-baiting in the s, the naturally nice English Bulldog was forced to be aggressive to fit this extreme sport. In bull-baiting, a dog is pitted against a bull inside a ring. After the ban of this sport in , breeders changed their attitude towards this breed and started to care for English Bulldogs so they may be good canine companions. Fast forward to the present, the English Bulldog is now known as a sweet and dependable dog great for families and children. Gone is its former aggressive reputation. Pug History The Pug is just as remarkable as the English Bulldog because of its similarly wrinkled face and sociable and charming temperament. Known as the pampered pets of Chinese rulers, the Pug breed was brought to Europe in the sixteenth century. This breed was equally treasured by nobles throughout the Western continent. It was popularly bred with one goal: to be a companion dog. To date, it is still a popular companion dog as it was centuries before. One thing is for sure, though. Putting together its two parent breeds was intentional, thus making it a designer breed. The English Bulldog and Pug were so popular that breeders wanted to have the characteristics of both breeds in one canine. The result of this crossbreeding is a playful companion dog with a wrinkled face which is known as the Pug English Bulldog mix. Some breeders and dog owners also wanted to have an English Bulldog that is smaller in size. One way for breeders to develop smaller versions of purebred dogs is to mix them with a smaller breed. Other examples of this crossbreeding practice are the miniature Rottweiler and the miniature Collie. Many names have been given to this hybrid like the mini Bulldog and Bull Pug and they are recognized by canine organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and Designer Breed Registry. As I mentioned earlier, the English Bulldog Pug mix is sometimes called a mini Bulldog and one look at this pup will tell you why. Most Bull Pugs come with a round head, broad shoulders, and a muscular and stocky body like that of their parents. In terms of its face, it has the signature wrinkles of both parents, a medium muzzle, and eyes that are black and shaped like almonds. It falls under the brachycephalic breed group which means that because of its skull, it will have a flat face and squished nose. This mix may even come with an underbite! The English Bulldog is medium-sized, typically 14 to 15 inches in height, while the Pug is around 10 to 13 inches. Putting these two together will give an offspring smaller than a regular Bulldog but bigger than a Pug. Your English Bulldog Pug mix may grow as tall as 10 to 14 inches and as heavy as 20 to 45 pounds. It does not need much space to move around. For as long as you take it on walks, it is good to go. These are coat color traits they inherit from their parents. A litter of five to seven can have a mix of these coat types. Fawn is light tannish yellow that may manifest in a wide range of shades. Dogs with this coat color may have a light shade like pale tan, dark shade like deep deer-red, or other shades in between. There are crossbreeds with fawn coats that have black areas around their muzzles like that of Pugs. There are also Pug English Bulldog mixes that have black coats. Mixed dogs with black coats typically have a solid black color throughout the body. The usual patches of piebald Bull Pugs are white with a red or fawn backdrop. There are dog owners who use the term piebald to refer to two-toned or bi-colored coats. The crossbreed that inherits this coat from the English Bulldog parent has a colored base with a striped pattern that resembles tiger stripes. Usually, brindle coats come in color groups like black and fawn, white and red, and other combinations. Both parent breeds of the English Bulldog Pug mix are great for families, making their crossbreed offspring a perfect family dog. Playful, affectionate, and sweet best describe the English Bulldog Pug mix as it enjoys being in the company of its loved ones. If you are a dog owner of this crossbreed, expect to have a loyal companion who loves having you around. In fact, it can go on without getting any attention from you for a certain period of time. If you have a laidback and sedentary lifestyle, this pup is for you because it does not move around so much. While it can get playful and energetic especially during playtime, this dog also enjoys chilling on the couch with its fur parents. Take a look at this video of a Bull Pug playing calmly with a bug: English Bull Dog Pug mix playing with Bug When it comes to children, this mix is also a good choice. Its English Bulldog parent has a reputation for being aggressive. However, this is just a misconception due to its bull-baiting history. The truth is that the English Bulldog is sweet-natured and gets along with kids. The Pug breed is also sociable which makes their mixed pup good with the little ones. Aside from kids, the English Bulldog Pug mix also enjoys mingling with other dogs. To ensure that your dog will be as friendly, start introducing other people and dogs even at a young age. Early socialization can help them turn into nice-mannered dogs. This pup may need a little bit of time for adjustment, though, when meeting strangers. Its parent breeds handle stranger dogs and humans differently. The English Bulldog may be wary of strangers and exercises caution when being approached. Quite the contrary, the Pug is friendly, sometimes to an extreme level. How your pup will react will depend on its training and the inherited temperament. Your crossbreed pup may get more temperament traits from either of its parents, but rest assured, you will get a pleasant-tempered pup that is a perfect addition to your family. To give you a peek of what an English Bulldog Pug mix is like, here is a video compilation done by a fur parent. English Bulldog Pug Mix Lifespan and Health Issues As fur parents, we all want our beloved pooches to live healthy lives and spend more years with us so we should be well-aware of the health risks that come with their breed. Several health issues concern the English Bulldog and Pug which their crossbred offspring might inherit. Most conditions are related to the respiratory system, bones and joints, and skin. The result is a pain in the limbs which may cause your dog to start limping. Patellar Luxation: Another orthopedic issue, patellar luxation concerns the patella or kneecap. Dogs with patellar luxation experience discomfort in their knees and in some cases, loss of function. This is because during knee-flexing, the patella rides outside the femoral groove. Brachycephaly Airway Obstructive Syndrome: The Brachycephaly Airway Obstructive Syndrome is a common health problem in brachycephalic or short-nosed dogs. Both parents of this mix have this flattened skull so they are prone to this. Symptoms include difficulty in breathing, vomiting, and loud snoring. Pug Dog Encephalitis: The neurological disease called Pug Dog Encephalitis happens when brain tissues are inflamed causing pups to experience seizures, behavioral changes, disorientation, and more. This usually hits Pugs that are two to three years of age but may also occur as early as six months or as late as seven years old. No known cause has been found for this kind of encephalitis. Cherry Eye: Dogs have a third eyelid called the nictitating membrane. Diabetes: Diabetes is a common problem in dogs, but there are more incidents in Pugs. Because diabetic dogs are unable to regulate sugars in their bodies, they need insulin shots to help them do so. Canine Atopy: Getting allergies is common to Pugs and in some cases, they have a hypersensitivity reaction when exposed to allergens called canine atopy. Affected areas are usually the paws, abdomen, face, ears, chest, armpits, and flanks. Basic needs for canines are food, shelter, grooming, and training. However, these needs vary from one breed to another. What the Chihuahua needs may not exactly be the same as what your English Bulldog Pug mix needs. Knowing what your pup needs allows you to give it the best care possible. Feeding and Diet To ensure that you have a healthy pup, only give good quality dry dog food to your Pug Bulldog mix. On a daily basis, this crossbreed needs about calories to be served in two split meals. You may also consider giving homemade food. Cooked vegetables like spinach, carrots, asparagus, and sweet potatoes are good for your crossbreed dog. You may also give fruits like bananas, apples, and mangoes. Always remember to remove pits and seeds before serving. Besides giving your English Bulldog Pug mix the right kind of food, you should also monitor its food intake. Both parents are prone to obesity. While a chubby pup looks very cute, it is not healthy and may lead to many problems and complications. If you are starting to notice that your pup is getting underweight or overweight, consult your vet to get a diet recommendation. Cleaning and Grooming Short coats can be seen in both the English Bulldog and Pug and the same for their crossbreed pup. Use a soft brush to keep the coat beautiful and healthy and to avoid hurting your dog. Aside from its coat, you should also pay attention to the wrinkles on its face and body. Bacteria may start to build up when left unclean so be sure to wipe and bathe when necessary. This is also to avoid infections and allergies which they may be prone to. On top of that, regularly trim the nails and clean the eyes and ears. Brushing is also important and should be added to your grooming routine. Doing all these will help prevent infections and keep your dog healthy and happy. Training and Exercise English Bulldog Pug mixes are laidback and chill. If you do not enjoy too much physical activity, this crossbreed is for you because its exercise needs are not too high. A minute walk is already enough for this mixed breed plus enough playtime and bonding. Early morning and evening are said to be the best time for walks and exercise. Remember that both parent breeds are brachycephalic which means their offspring will be too. They cannot handle heat well and are prone to overheating. When walking, ensure that you have drinking water ready. In terms of trainability, this mix can learn tricks and commands. However, you need to have patience during training as it can get a little too stubborn. This is probably a trait inherited from its parents. Be firm when you train your pup but also not too strict. Have fun and consider training as bonding time. Do you know that the secret to successful training is positive reinforcement? Dogs listen and obey more when they are rewarded for good behavior. Prepare those treats for your training time! There may also be more expensive ones especially when you buy from a reputable breeder. Factors that may affect cost include size, health, breeder reputation, and lineage. There are also mixes from champion bloodlines but prepare to shell more. When choosing a breeder to buy a mixed pup from, consider a lot of things such as the affiliation of your breeder. Puppy mills are everywhere and they have poor practices and little care for their dogs, thus, low prices. Avoid them as much as possible. Caring for a pup entails other expenses aside from the cost of the dog itself. Prepare for one-time costs such as a leash, harness or collar, bed, toys, and the like. You also have regular expenses such as food, treats, and grooming items. For new pups, you have to spend for neutering or spaying, vaccinations, and deworming. However, they are also not highly common so you have to check the availability of this crossbreed: Greenfield Puppies — Fur parents have been trusting Greenfield Puppies since .They connect reputable breeders with interested soon-to-be owners and carry both purebred and mixed puppies. Adoption is also another option for those looking for an English Bulldog Pug mix. There are mixed breeds, puppies and full-grown dogs alike, that need a home. They have been saving Pugs and Pug mixes and helping them find a family that will give them the love they deserve. This group also provides education and guidance to adoptive families. Adoptable breeds include Pugs, English Bulldogs, Frenchies, and their mixes. Petfinder — With their vast database of dogs and cats, Petfinder can link you with animal shelters and adoption organizations so you can find your furry companion. Before buying or adopting a Bull Pug, you must know what you are getting into. Caring for a dog is hard work but more than that, it requires love and attention. Check out these dogs that you may want to consider. Frug: The name may sound funny but the Frug is an actual crossbreed. Both crossbreeds share some physical characteristics and low exercise requirements. Puggle: A mix of the Pug and Beagle, the Puggle is a smart crossbreed that likes playing. It is also good for families because it gets along well with kids. Unlike the Bull Pug, the Puggle does not enjoy staying put and is highly active and energetic. Poxer: The Poxer is the offspring of a Pug and a Boxer. This medium-sized designed breed is charming and lively. Fit for those with active lifestyles, this crossbreed loves physical activities. Both parent breeds of this mix are brachycephalic which also makes this dog one. Since a mix can take on any combination of traits from their parents, you want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. Should an English Bulldog Mix take after their Bulldog parent, they will be sweet-natured, affectionate, and playful dogs that love being with their families. English Bulldogs are companion breeds that are known for being sweethearts. As long as they are socialized properly, they tend to be excellent with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although watchful, they are even agreeable to strangers once they have been introduced. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent as they are likely to introduce their own quirks. Meeting the mother in person can give you an idea of her temperament and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started some training and socialization, it is your responsibility to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home to ensure they grow into a well-rounded, well-behaved dog. Although English Bulldogs adapt to most living situations, they are sensitive to hot and cold, and are particularly sensitive to heat. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed could introduce some traits that affect adaptability so you do want to ask the breeder about them. A mix could inherit conditions common to neither of their parent breeds, one of them, or even both of them. From the English Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of in an English Bulldog Mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Entropion, and Cherry Eye. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to prevent passing issues to puppies, so make sure you are asking about the health history of both of the parents. Although English Bulldogs can be stubborn, they are generally eager to please and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels and respond well to consistent training that is focused on positive reward and praise. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. The other parent breed could also introduce the potential for an English Bulldog Mix that is more difficult to train. Mixed-breed dogs can inherit a coat that is a carbon copy of one of their parents or they can end up with a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should an English Bulldog Mix end up with a Bulldog coat, they will shed moderately year-round, require brushing a couple of times a week, and the occasional bath. If they have face wrinkles, you will need to make sure they are clean and dry regularly to prevent skin irritation. Cutting nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful ear cleanings as needed helps prevent ear infections. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste is ideal dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. English Bulldogs tend to be lower-energy breeds that only require daily walks and some playtime to be happy. But, they will be energetic when they play and might be up for more activity if you are. The other parent breed can affect this. If they are a low-energy breed, then you can expect an English Bulldog Mix to be the same. If the other parent breed requires more daily activity, then you will need to be prepared for that potential range in an English Bulldog Mix puppy. Because they may still be a brachycephalic dog breed, they can overheat, so you want to be careful of overexertion. There are many safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs to help your English Bulldog Mix get the exercise they need. Fully-grown English Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. An English Bulldog generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an English Bulldog Mix. Featured English Bulldog Mix Article. The Bull-Pug is dependable, sensitive and great with children. This dog strongly attaches to people, is very well-mannered, and has a sensitive nature. It is a breed that does not do well when left alone for long periods of time. The Bull-Pug relishes attention from its owner but also has a willful side. Bulldogs are known for being strong-willed, so you need to begin training as a puppy — and the best type of training for this breed is using positive reinforcement. As long as you maintain a firm and gentle hand in training, your Bull-Pug should learn quickly. Discover more about our Bull-Pug puppies for sale below! Temperament Bull-Pugs have a lot of energy as puppies but calm down a lot as they get older. They can be messy eaters: they tend to slobber and even snore, but these are traits that bulldog owners usually find endearing. The Bull-Pug will make a great family pet as they are wonderful with children and do well in apartments since they only have a moderate need for exercise. See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Hybrid Club.

Do Father dogs know their puppies? By two weeks of age, they should be alert and trying to stand. By three weeks, they should be trying to climb out of their nest or whelping box. By four weeks, all the puppies should be able to walk, run, and play. How long do puppies stay in whelping box? During the first 3 weeks most dams like to be in a warm secluded area, not in the family living area. Pups remain contently in their whelping box for the first 20 days of their life. How do you transition a puppy from a whelping box? By the time the puppies are weeks old, the mother should have an area near the whelping box, but separate from the puppies to allow her time to rest. At about this time, the puppies will start trying to leave the box to explore. They should be well supervised and have safe toys available. Can I move the whelping box? We have found that moving the whelping box or puppy pen set-up on a weekly basis exposes the puppies to new scents and air currents and increases their adaptability and development by about two weeks, especially compared to puppies who are raised in the same corner until they go to their new homes. Is whelping box necessary? As the last week of pregnancy approaches, your female dog will often begin looking for a secure and comfortable place to have her litter of puppies. Before this time comes, it is essential to create a whelping box so she becomes comfortable with it and knows this is the preferred place to have her puppies. Do 4 week old puppies need a heat lamp? Young puppies cannot maintain their own body temperature for a week or two after birth. Heating the area over the whelping box with the aid of a heat lamp is usually all that is necessary. When should I remove the whelping box? I usually take them out at about 3 — 4weeks. This is what I have in My box they just stay there all the time. When can puppies go all night without nursing? A six or seven week old puppy can go through the night without needing to feed as long as they have had enough food during the day. Should newborn puppies sleep with Mom? A newborn puppy is completely helpless and dependent upon her mother. Puppies should remain with the mother and littermates until about age eight to 12 weeks. How do you keep a puppy whelping box clean? Clean the bottom with a chemical-free disinfectant cleanser. Spray a bit of chemical-free disinfectant cleanser on the bottom and sides of your whelping box, and use a paper towel to wipe this up. When can I leave my dog alone with her puppies? Can you leave newborn puppies alone with their mom overnight? Should I leave my dog alone while she is in labor? Should I be present during the whelping? Some dogs like the owner to be with them the whole time they are in labor. Others prefer to have their puppies in seclusion. If your pet chooses to be left alone, try to avoid intruding any more than necessary. What is the best bedding for a whelping box? Many breeders use shredded newspaper to line whelping boxes, but others prefer towels and blankets, wood shavings, or even sand. Should I keep my dog in the whelping box? A whelping box is designed to keep the newborn puppies safe, warm, and comfortable. Whelping means the process where a female dog gives birth to puppies. And a whelping box is a container or box designed to keep the puppies safe and warm. Having a whelping box makes it convenient for the mother to give birth comfortably. Female dogs are very protective of their puppies. Hence the nesting box offers a sense of security. Female dogs need assistance and a safe place to give birth. Hence, a whelping pen would be of great help. If your dog is about to give birth, it would be better to get a box or make it yourself. For a small dog like Pomeranian, you can convert a large card box into a whelping pen. You can put your creativity into the process and make a nesting box for your dog. If your dog is big, she might probably give birth to a large number of puppies. Hence, the size of the box should be large enough to fit the puppies and the mother. Furthermore, you can get the box from a pet store if creativity and DIY are not your forte. Here are some of the factors that you need to consider: The sides of the pen should be high enough that can keep the puppies safe for three weeks. Also, make sure that the mother can move to and fro freely. The size of the pen should be spacious enough for your dog and puppies. It should have enough space where the mother can feed her pups comfortably. In addition, it should allow them to move freely. It will help to keep the pups warm when the mom is not around. These are the factors that you need to consider while getting a nesting box. It helps the mother and the pups in the long run. You would notice the growth within the first few weeks. They can move and stand up over the sides of the whelping pen. By three weeks, they become mobile and able to move towards the edge of the nesting box. However, before it reaches that stage, you should take care of it diligently. Some pups would go astray and get lost. Hence, getting a box with proper height is essential. Sometimes the mother has to go out of the box for a nature call or food. The box offers a sense of security both to the dog owner and the mother. When the puppies are born, they have no control over their body temperature. So, while the mom is out, the box will keep them warm. However, you have to make sure that the bottom of the box is covered with a soft blanket. By three weeks, they will start moving, and some puppies might even get out of the box. So, the real chaos begins when they reach three weeks. It would be best if you were more careful than ever. How to Keep the Nesting Box Clean? Taking care of puppies can be quite tiring. Once the puppies are born safely in the box, it would be better to change the sheet or the beddings. The mother will take care of it. However, from the second to the third week, the real work starts. It will help if you make sure that the box is clean. While cleaning the box, you can keep the pups temporarily in a warm blanket. You need to replace the sheet or newspaper at least twice or thrice per day. However, keeping the box clean prevents the puppies from possible bacterial infections. It also helps to keep the puppies clean. You should see that the nesting box is clean and dry. So, like a responsible dog owner , make sure that the box is clean and warm. Changing the Whelping Box to Other Areas Once the puppies have passed the first week, you place the box in other areas. It will help them to get used to the new smell and sounds. However, make sure that the place is quiet and warm. Some kids would like to hold the pups, which would be too early and maybe dangerous. During the first two weeks, puppies are pretty delicate. So, it would be best to keep far away from children. The first three weeks are a crucial moment for you and the pups. The puppies are in their developing stage, and they need a quiet and calm environment to grow. So, you should make sure that puppies are kept safe and warm. They would be too young to take the regular food and would cause indigestion. But you can keep water for the mother. They get very thirsty while taking care of the puppies. She requires good protein and energy to keep the pups fed through her milk. You can place the food in the water once they can move or walk. However, make sure that the food is easily digestible. Also, puppies tend to eat food without a limit. So, you should give the food moderately. Overeating can cause indigestion and vomiting. Hence, it would help if you were careful not to overfeed them. It offers a sense of security to the mother and the dog owners as well. Having a nesting box helps to keep the puppies from going astray. The first three weeks are crucial for the puppies to grow and develop healthily. Having the right size of the whelping box can help both the puppies and the mother move freely. It allows the mother to breastfeed the puppies comfortably. If your dog is about to give birth, it would be better to arrange a whelping box. It offers safety and assurance to both the mother and puppies. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. A whelping box is an important item to have when puppies are about to be born. You can construct something yourself or buy a specifically designed boxes from pet stores. When can puppies leave the whelping box? Puppies can often leave the whelping box at 3 weeks old. At this age, puppies can move out of the whelping box as they become more mobile. Puppies can stand up and even climb out of the whelping box nest. At this age, puppies start to explore outside of their nest, to find out more about the wide and exciting world around them. Well, I can tell you that a whelping box will help you and the mother cope better with a horde of tiny puppies in their first few weeks. What is a whelping box? Also known as a nest or whelping pen, the whelping box is a container designed to keep the newborn litter in one safe and cozy place. The mother also likes to have a place where she can give birth to her puppies in comfort while having a sense of security. Whelping means to give birth hence the name of the box. It should be placed in a quiet part of the house and set up a couple of weeks before your dog gives birth. This gives her time to get familiar with the box. Image via Pixabay. What can I use as a whelping box? If your dog is a little girl, you could convert a large, sturdy cardboard box into a nesting box. You can make your own if carpentry is your hobby or you could go to the local pet store and buy a whelping box. What to look out for when picking a whelping box You need to make sure you pick a whelping box that takes into consideration the following factors: The sides are high enough to keep the puppies safely contained in their first 3 weeks but low enough for the mother to move in and out freely. The size is big enough to accommodate all the puppies being born. The bottom of the box may come with whelping pads or you can simply line it with newspapers and a soft blanket. Some breeders will use wood shavings to cover the floor of the box. Some whelping boxes come with an extension which is great for more active puppies who are still too young to leave the pen but are moving around quite a bit. Picking the right whelping box goes a long way to keeping mum and pups comfortable and secure. When is the right age for puppies to leave the whelping box? Puppies develop and mature very quickly in their first few weeks. A whelping box is designed to keep the newborn puppies safe, warm, and comfortable. Keeping the puppies in one place and even using a heat lamp will help keep them warm. And, when the mother needs time out, she can leave the box and get some space knowing her pups are all safe in one spot. A whelping box gives you peace of mind your puppies are well-protected, staying warm, and not disappearing once they start crawling. But be ready for the exodus once they reach 3 weeks old and might start walking! How do I keep the whelping box clean? If your dog gave birth to the puppies in the whelping box, you would need to change the bedding once all the puppies are safely delivered. Keep them warm with a blanket. Use a non-chemical cleaning detergent and warm water to wash out the box. Remove any dirty bedding and replace with clean blankets, newspapers or wood shavings. Some breeders do put in a litter box for puppies once they start crawling. This could be the first step to house training your pups. Do regular inspections throughout the day to make sure the whelping box is always dry and clean. Can I move the whelping box to other areas? Once your puppies have passed their first week, you could consider moving them to different areas in the house. But remember, you need to keep them warm so make sure there are no draughts and the puppies are not too intimidated by the new environment. Be careful also with handling newborn puppies when moving them. For the first 3 weeks, the puppies are small, developing, and can be easily disturbed by too much activity around them. Do I need to put food and water in the whelping box? The puppies will be drinking milk from their mother for the first 3 to 4 weeks, before moving onto water. For the first 3 weeks, you could keep a bowl of water in the box for the mother. She will be very thirsty while nurturing her puppies. However, once the puppies start becoming mobile keep both the water and food outside the box. Conclusion Get ready for a whole lot of fun, but also stress. She will take them no doubt but being able to help just a little with whelping boxes, nesting, and more will make it so much easier for you. You might also like…. During that first three weeks we weigh the puppies daily, trim their toenails every days, and put new collars on them every days as their growth is so rapid. The standard puppies are weighed on a regular digital scale and should gain an ounce a day at first and then up to ounces daily, whereas miniature puppies gain in a tenth of an ounce to start with and then an ounce or two a day. Jenny with litter at birth in 4' x 4' whelping box with lots of absorbent padding. Tasy in her "birthing bed" with the first three pups of the TS5 litter "Tasy" moves into her "doll crib" after the puppies are born - shown here at 3 weeks of age. We find it essential that the dam have food and water inside her whelping box the first week, however once she is willing to leave the box for short periods of time it can be set just outside the box, otherwise she will not eat and drink enough to provide all the milk needed for the puppies well being, and if you are not supplementing with goats milk, your puppies can suffer from dehydration. The standard dam has to produce almost two gallons of milk a day by the time a litter of puppies is two weeks of age. That's twice the amount a good dairy goat gives, who is at least double the dam's body weight. We find that goat milk, canned or fresh, is a much better supplement than the commercial formulas, as we have better weight gains and hardly ever have diarrhea in our puppies. If you have more than 8 puppies it is also essential that the dam's tail area and vulva be washed each time she goes out to go, as since there are not enough teats to go around there will always be a puppy trying to latch onto the vulva. The puppies can pick up bacteria and worm eggs, and a one celled organism called coccidiosis in this way which can lead to diarrhea. Mandy with AM3 Litter x Sterling at 1 week old. We practice what we call "giving the puppies an opportunity to learn" as a puppy raising method. We whelp the puppies in one corner of the living room where we have easy access to the box. We have found that moving the whelping box or puppy pen set-up on a weekly basis exposes the puppies to new scents and air currents and increases their adaptability and development by about two weeks, especially compared to puppies who are raised in the same corner until they go to their new homes. This is the first stage of their house breaking. Within hours the smartest puppies of the litter, barely able to crawl, will crawl out to use the paper and then crawl back into the whelping box. Within a few days the entire litter will usually be using the paper. Supplementing the puppies these first weeks gives us a good chance to play with the puppies feet, and get them used to their faces being handled for grooming, however even when we don't supplement we take time daily to handle every puppy and get them used to different textures, smells, and having their feet, faces, ears and tails handled. At three weeks of age when the ears open we start their cereal feeding, and use a soft clap with a "come, babies" command each time they are fed. This leads to the next step in the transition of removing the second box and the addition of a paper lined exercise pen to the whelping box at four weeks of age. At this time we start walking the puppies outside about every two hours from AM to PM. During this time ,the 4th-5th week, we teach them some basic commands - "in", "out", "potty outside", "walk", "watch", and continuing with their "come" command. Once they have understanding of these basic commands we then take them out to an outside play yard, regardless of the weather. It's really important to have this set-up close to an outside door if possible, or to use sections of an exercise pen to make an aisleway directly outdoors. Puppies can be carried outdoors, however their "potty outside" is learned much faster if they walk out the door in tune to the "out" command and the "potty outside" command at the same time. Usually within two days my standard puppies have quit having messes on the paper and are actually asking to go "out" - often at AM at this stage, and I do get up to accommodate them as this speeds their training amazingly, and I have a lot less mess to deal with - and less dirty crates when that time comes along. You can see that I do sleep within hearing of the puppies - usually until those we are continuing training with for their new families are weeks old. TS5 Miniature Litter - 2nd day of cereal feeding and 1st trip outside to the "big" world. We also start the grooming training at 4 weeks of age - starting with a bath with a soft water spray in a utility tub, and using a soft flow warm air dryer and a slicker brush - brushing the coat up the body toward the head, and up the legs toward the back as it dries. We always groom on a table, or the washer or dryer, or a counter - this is essential in getting the puppies used to being groomed on a grooming table and getting over any tendency toward the fear of heights. We cuddle them in our arms on the table to help them feel loved and secure, and to build their confidence level. We try to take pictures at birth, day old individual pictures, then every week thereafter for their new families, and for our albums. We also try to take litter shots as well at the various stages. I find that special touches add a lot of enjoyment, both for us raising the puppies, and for our families who are kept in the "link" of their puppy growing from infancy to toddler weeks. A Tasy x Promise Puppy before his first grooming and after his first grooming. My, oh my, what a difference!! We also start the worming program at four weeks of age - and this is really essential if you occasionally have a puppy that coughs after feeding, or vomits back up milk or cereal. Round worms are the one type of worm that the puppies can get in utero, and they grow as fast as the puppies. A heavy case of worms can often mimic other serious conditions in young puppies. It is also essential to use a low dosage of wormer in cases of heavy infestation, and at times give the puppy a few drops of oil by mouth, and possibly even an enema with a few drops of oil to help pass the worms. We use pyrantel pamoate for our first series of wormings. It is essential to worm every days until no worms are seen - these worms look like spaghetti - and once you see a litter of puppies pass them you never forget them. The wormer works in about six hours and is very effective. We have a computer generated health record that we complete on each puppy, and note all the worming's on it and on the litter weight records as well. Once the worming has been done, and if the teeth are coming in on the entire litter we start adding softened and mashed with potato masher kibble to the puppies cereal mixture - gradually reducing the rice baby cereal. During the next two weeks we gradually start adding cooked rice, cooked oatmeal, scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, ground apple and carrot, and a supplement Green Vibrance which has microbials in it to their soft feed. As soon as the puppies are able to eat dry kibble well and not just play with it we gradually reduce the soft feedings to AM and PM. The puppies often prefer dry kibble during times of heavy teething, however dry kibble no matter how well promoted does not meet all of their nutritional needs. Also the more organically chemical, steroid, and low grade antibiotic free a puppy can be fed, the better for its health and longevity. We keep our puppies on microbials their whole life as this keeps their intestinal system in optimal health - they absorb more nutrients, they produce less fecal material, they are less prone to other bacterial infections, they don't have smelly gas, they are less prone to bloat typical in a number of large breeds , they have better pigmentation as a result of absorbing more nutrients. We have also found that since taking this approach to diet that puppy and show coats on adults are more luxurious. As you can see their fourth week involves a lot of changes for the puppies. At six weeks of age we start the weaning process - although most "mothers" have already started it. A poodle "mom" is the most devoted creature ever the first week or two, but after that usually reclaims part of her own life to be with her human family. She will return to the whelping box every few hours to take care of her puppies needs, but other than that spends her time on a blanket or pad outside the box. Using a higher powered water spray, a higher powered table dryer, and if the coat is still thin enough a palm pro clipper again to clip the face, feet, tummy and tail. At this time Mishelle also adds standing the puppy properly on the table and does the first scissoring around the tail head and up the rump - as much to get the puppy used to the sound and feel of the scissors as because there is that much coat to scissor off. This is also when we try to take the first pictures of the puppies in a nice stance to send to everyone. This also helps to train the puppy for standing on the table which benefits when we do the conformation evaluations at 8 weeks of age. Puppies fearful on the table are very difficult to assess. This is also essential for miniature puppies that are going to be shown. It's very sad when a miniature is put on a table in the show ring for the judges inspection, and is fearful. Just minutes a day on a table, being encouraged to stand and be touched, can make a remarkable difference in just a week. A Maddy x Calvin puppy at 6 weeks of age after her 2nd grooming Six weeks is also when we remove the whelping box, as the mother now just gets in with the puppies about 4 times a day and either sits or stands to nurse them. She also starts to regurgitate her feedings for the puppies at this stage. The teeth are starting to come all the way in at this time, and the puppies will start sparring, and at times will really yelp. They learn at this stage not to bite each other too hard, and this is the first step to them learning not to bite humans too hard. We often have families who want to get their poodle puppies at this age, especially if they are going to training in agility. We do not allow any puppies to go to their new homes until they are weeks of age, as we feel that they need the "sibling rivalry" stage to learn aggressive and defensive behavior - which is learned by their interplay with each other. Many of our poodles go to homes with runners, and I can't tell you how many times they have had to defend their owners from aggressive dogs of other breeds, and always successfully. You never know when your poodle may have to come to your defense, and the maneuvers they learn as puppies at this age are the foundation for their defensive techniques, increase their alertness, and the speed of their thinking and their reactivity time. I love watching the puppies develop their skills during playtime at this stage. It is their transition from infancy to toddlers. It is also at six weeks that we remove the whelping box replacing it with two small crates without the gates on. Our favorite crates are the Furrari's, as they just snap together, and the gates can be opened from either side and simply lifted off for this stage of training. The first night all the puppies will crowd into one small crate - then I will hear them in the middle of the night groaning and grumbling, and in the morning the puppies will be divided between the two crates. That day we add a third small crate, and go through the same process - which we repeat until there are two puppies per crate. We never put the gates on at this stage, just allow the puppies the freedom to sleep in or out of the crates, and to play with them. We estimate that a poodle puppy develops 21 years in it's first year. From infancy to toddler, to preschool, to kindergarten, to pre-adolescent, to adolescent, to pre-teen, to teenager, to post teen, and early twenties. Their intelligence is equivalent to that of many humans, and the learning of human vocabulary in a standard poodle is amazing. They are a joy to work with and to train, many almost training themselves. At this point we start giving the puppies rawhide chew bones to help with their teeth cutting, the cardboard rolls from toilet paper, paper towels, tape rolls, and small boxes that they can pack around, tear up and destroy. Much like a toddler builds a stack of bricks and then knocks it down destructive stage so also does a puppy need to go through this stage. So we give them things that don't cost anything, that are light weight, and the right size around for a puppy jaw to pick up. They love it. We also start giving the puppies soft and hard toys to play with, and also try to observe which puppies in the litter are water lovers - they play in the water and empty the container almost as fast as we can fill it. We often get asked for puppies that like water by families that boat, or live on rivers or lakes, or on house boats. We start watching closely for the different types of personalities that the puppies have, how they relate to each other, to new situations, to new people, to other animals they come in contact with. Those that are more adventuresome, more curious, more courageous, etc. We are also watching for activity levels and how they move. It is also at weeks that we take the puppies to the back yard to play - as they are then big enough to be taught to go up and down steps. We have closed back steps, and open backed steps like condos and the steps at the air cargo depots for them to learn on. This can be quite a challenge to some, and we usually have to delay this training with the miniatures for a couple of more weeks when they are a bit bigger. They are so proud of themselves when they achieve success in going up and down the steps, even though it is just three steps - and will run up and down just for the joy of it. In the back yard they also learn to drink from an automatic waterer, so that they don't fear the hissing sound as it refills. Having nice clean feet, faces, and tail head and rump helps us to evaluate the puppies much better, and they will score better when all can be seen and evaluated. We do not give the puppies any treats prior to testing, nor do we do any actual crate training in closed crates. At this age the puppies get their first bath in the grooming tub with a harder spray of water instead of in the utility tub. The Force dryer is used for the first time, and the Andis or Oster clippers. This is also the clipping that helps us to determine the color that the puppies might end up as - blues and silvers are born black, silver beige and cafe-au-lait can be born very dark brown, light apricots that are going to cream out - we study the nose, feet, heels, and under the tail and neck for signs of color change. Tasy x Promise Pup - Black - at 8 weeks! A Mandy x Sterling Pup - Silver - at 8 weeks. Silvers and blues are born black and change gradually - starting with the muzzle and feet We try to schedule temperament testing 16 tests and conformation evaluations a three page form using AKC breed requirements, International breed requirements, and Puppy Puzzle testing at 8 weeks minus or plus three days, as this is the most accurate time for assessing conformation before the puppy starts its rapid growth spurts. This is at times a little early for temperament testing, however as so many families want their puppies at 8 weeks of age, it is necessary to do this before the litter starts to go to new homes. Often our entire litters are reserved before they are even born, or at least by the time they are 6 weeks of age, and this helps us to match puppies and their capabilities and personalities and temperament to the homes they are going into, especially the puppies that are shipped across the United States. This also means asking our prospective families for lots of details about their home style, their activities, other pets or animals in or around their homes, and what they want to do with their puppy as an adult. We also help families at this point to decide the best age of puppy to suit their lifestyle, as many families in todays age have difficulty getting the time those first weeks to house train a young puppy. The weekly cost covers food, treats, training, vaccinations and wormings. Temperament testing is beneficial, although there are those that disagree. It is done in a strange place by a strange person. It's purpose is to note the natural instincts and adaptability of the young puppies, and our families have found our assessments to be pretty accurate as their puppies have developed. The disadvantage of testing at 8 weeks versus 12 weeks, is that puppies can be conceived over a ten day period. The gestation period is days, with all of the body development being in the first 50 days, and the weight gain being in the last days. If the bitch whelps according to the first puppy conceived, then the last puppy or puppies conceived may not have had much weight gain - however due to genetics it will not always be the smallest puppies. When we do temperament testing we also try to be aware of which puppies opened eyes first and last, which had teeth coming in first and last - as these can be indicative of which puppies in the litter are the oldest and the youngest - as the psychological development can also be different, with the thinking processes of the youngest not being quite as developed as the thinking processes of the gestationally oldest puppies. In temperament testing we are looking at social skills, inanimate object retrieving instincts, sensitivity testing, chase response, bird retrieving instincts, perseverance and motivation. These help to determine which puppies might be best suited as companions, service and therapy candidates, agility and obedience prospects, those with "bird" instincts, and very important today those with good search and rescue and tracking instincts. Conformation evaluations are where we literally take a puppies body structure apart and put it back together again - all on paper. We are looking for the few puppies in a litter that are the most correct by breed specifications in bone structure. As companions for runners, horse back riders, hikers, bikers, etc. Most of our standard puppies, after 10 years of breeding are quite structurally correct - however we try to match structural correctness, temperament and personality to the needs of a family. To be a pick of the litter puppy it must score high in all three areas. At times a structurally correct puppy may not have the best temperament for competitive events, and a senior family doesn't need a puppy with a high working drive. When we complete the testing we vaccinate each of the puppies and tattoo them with their individual identification number - that designates their dam, her litter number, and the number of puppy within the litter - in their left ear. This tattoo must be read and entered in the medical records of the puppy by the families veterinarian at the time of the "well puppy check" within 10 days of receiving the puppy for our 2 year from date of birth guarantee to go into effect. As soon as the testing is completed we start crate training the puppies. The first night two puppies are put into a crate with the gate on, and given 3 small treats. They are cuddled before being put into the crate, and we use the "in" command which they are used to. When they are taken out in the morning they are hugged and cuddled again, and given their "go potty outside" command as we take them "out" the front door. The second night they are crated individually, and are also crated during the day for short periods of time, to get them used to taking "naps" in their crates. They are always given three tiny biscuits when we want them in their crates, and usually within three days they compete to see who can get in the crates first and turn around for their treats. Usually at this age the puppies will crate from approximately PM to about AM without having accidents in their crates, however I do get up in the middle of the night and let them out if someone gets really fussy. In hot summer weather they at times need out during the night to get a drink just as much as they need out to go potty. We always make their last soft feeding of the day by PM, so that they have plenty of time to evacuate before bedtime. Remember poodle puppies are very smart, and if they get me up several nights in a row - I watch very carefully to see if they really needed to go - and if not they have just decided to get me out of bed for some extra attention and playtime - remember the pre-adolescent who wants another drink of water, etc. They will test their new families in the same way, and if they win they are ruling the family instead of the family ruling them. At this point the puppies are ready to go to their new homes to families living locally, or those driving from other states to get their puppies. If they are flying we keep them for two more weeks - and ship when they are approximately 10 - 12 weeks old. This allows us to start travel training and leash training of the puppies, and allow them to develop better holding capacity for daytime crating before shipping. Also it gives us time to receive family t-shirts worn until sweaty and placed in ziploc bags to give to the puppies in their crates three days before shipping. Having items of clothing which we tie into knots for a pillow or toy allows the puppy to get used to it's new families scents, and helps it to adapt and bond much more quickly. It also gives us time to ship their puppy pack to them, before the puppy is shipped. We follow up on our puppies for years, and encourage our families to keep in touch with us and contact us with any questions regarding nutrition, training problems or needs. We also board our own puppies back, which is wonderful as then we get to assess their development and personalities as adults. We have families now who purposefully plan their vacations for the Oregon Coast just so they can leave their much loved poodles with us - they come from as far away as Montana, Idaho, north eastern Washington, California, Utah, and of course the closer regions of Oregon and Washington. Unless we are expecting a litter imminently they get to come back and live in the house with us, and always enjoy playing with so many other poodles in our huge back yard, and side yard play areas. We also continue any training that is in progress on the younger puppies. A Mandy boy at 15 weeks! A Lucy daughter at 1 year - sent by her family in Idaho Many of our families also return with their puppies to take the one-on-one grooming classes with us - with Mishelle now being the primary instructor. Many of our families are now doing all of their own grooming, and even if they aren't have found the class very beneficial as they have learned what to expect from a good groomer. Many have returned for second and even third classes to learn advanced scissoring techniques, and several are now learning show grooming and handling from us as well. It's biblical that the older are to teach the younger - and we feel very strongly about this after not finding anyone willing to assist us when we first started out. We want those who have a true desire to become breeders of the poodles to start in the right way, learning to do the proper testing and research, taking part in genetic research projects, learn to groom their poodles properly, and to breed properly, caring for their whelping bitches and puppies correctly. Mishelle should have been in the picture with "Eve" but was in the Show Ring with her instead. She groomed 14 standards and 2 miniatures for this show. The poodle is a wonderful and unique breed - sharing life with it's family. Stages of Puppy Development Birth to 3 weeks The first 20 days of a pups life it is not capable of much learning. The mental capacity is about nil. The pup will react when it is in need of food, sleep, warmth and its mother. During the first 3 weeks it is VERY important to look after the dam as well. She will in turn, look after the puppies. Once or twice a day the puppies should be handled by a human and they should be weighed daily. During the first 3 weeks most dams like to be in a warm secluded area, not in the family living area. Pups remain contently in their whelping box for the first 20 days of their life. Newborn puppies sleep most of the day away. No matter what the breed, this is the time when the dormant senses wake up. From day 21 to 28 puppies are in need of their mom more than any other time as their brains and nervous systems begin to develop and they become aware of their surroundings. As mom jumps out of the box, they suddenly watch her wondering where she went. Pups may start climbing out of the whelping box at this age, so it is time to expand their home. At this stage we add a small potty area beside the whelp box. If a puppy were to loose his mom at this stage it would greatly affect his emotional wellbeing. Emotional growth is just blossoming as the puppy realizes it is alive. It is also at this age that characteristics can develop like shyness and fear. Any negative characteristics that develop at this stage in life are often permanent personality traits. The puppies sleep 20 or more hours a day. They will not go far, but they will begin to explore. At this time we expand their area to add a play and eating area in the daytime. This is the time to move them out to the kitchen and family room area, where life is happening in the home. This is not the age to be in the back bedroom, garage or barn. During this time, a puppy will learn to respond to voices, sounds and recognize different people. The puppies in their group will establish a 'pecking order', some will want to lead and some will want to follow. The dominant ones will eat first and the omega ones will wait. The dominant ones can become bullies and hog all the toys. This is an important stage to watch to learn the temperaments of each puppy and should be used for placing puppies into the proper homes. Some scientific studies prove that if there is a bully in a litter that is making others cower and be shy it can set in traits that are very hard to turn around, but it is also important to leave puppies in a social group long enough to be adventurous and for the puppy to acquire some social competitive skills. On the same note, a puppy should never be allowed to get too pushy. While shyer puppies have to learn to handle themselves in social groups, a dominant puppy needs to learn it is not acceptable to be a bully. Different breeds need to be separated at different ages. Often if the bully is adopted out first the remaining puppies will loose some of their shyness. Puppies at this age sleep 18 to 20 hours a day. By 7 weeks, a pup is considered emotionally developed and ready to learn, but the pup does not possess an adult brain yet. At 7 weeks old the breeder of the pups can start crate training for an hour or two a day with 2 pups in a crate. This helps with separation anxiety. By 8 weeks of age a puppy should be able to go in a crate alone for a nap, and it is almost ready for its new home. A puppy should never be taken away from it's mother before weeks of age. The mother dog teaches the puppies in the litter manners, respect, social skills, and proper etiquette, along with many other valuable lessons. When a puppy misses this stage it can cause the pup to have future behavior issues as most humans do not understand natural dog behavior enough to teach the pup these things. What a puppy learns now will be retained and become part of who the dog becomes and his personality. Most dams stop caring for their pups by 7 weeks, as they have teeth and she pushes them away. If a pup is left with the dam during this period it's emotional development can be altered, as it remains dependent on her. The same can happen if littermates are placed together. They rely on each other instead of the new owner and they often do not find adequate security in their mom or littermate. They need their new owner to take over the role and it is important that the humans understand natural dog behavior in order to fulfill the puppies instincts and needs. First shots should be done at 7. When a puppy stays with his litter after 8 to 9 weeks of age without adequate human contact it doesn't adjust as well to a human social life. The optimum time to take a new puppy is from 8 to 9 weeks of age. It is always best to have a pup do his learning from his new owner and in his new home. Puppies are often adopted out at 8, 9, 10 or 11 weeks. Older puppies can do just fine if the breeder has spent a lot of time socializing them away from their littermates. Ideally 9 weeks seems to be the perfect age for most breeds to go to new homes. What the dog learns from 8 to 12 weeks will be with him forever. At this time the puppy must be introduced to other people and go for walks on the pavement street avoiding dirt or grass until it has had its 2nd shots. If the first shots are done at 8 weeks and second are done at 12 weeks it is a good idea to enroll in puppy kindergarten that starts right at 12 weeks. At this age on up to several months old, puppies will sleep 16 to 20 hours a day, give or take depending on the puppies energy level and the activity around them. Sleeping more during rapid growth sprurts. The sleep is broken up between night time sleep and naps during the day. It is common for a puppy to play hard, running around with bounds of energy, then suddenly crashing into a deep sleep. It is important to keep in mind that all puppies by this time have formed a general personality. Some are natural born leaders, some are middle of the road and could go either way and some are very submissive and really prefer not to lead anything. All puppies have an instinct to have a leader who can provide structure, because in their minds without it the pack cannot survive. Therefore even the most naturally born submissive dog may feel the need to take over as an alpha should they feel everyone else around them is too weak to care for the pack. These dogs are often very stressed out about their role because they really do not want it, but feel the need to lead just the same. After all, to them it's a matter of life or death. One of the biggest questions new owners call about is that the pup is an angel for the first couple weeks and then it starts to nip in an attempt to control things around it. This happens when a puppy does not see the humans as natural born leaders to which it can respect and it attempts to get the pack in order. If this happens it does not necessarily mean you got a bad puppy, but often means you are not being a good canine owner. Owners must be calm but firm and follow through. Set the rules of the home and stick to them. Teach basic obedience and how to heel on a leash. Do not let the puppy bolt out the door. Stay calm and confident and remember that dogs can feel your emotions. If you have emotional problems your dog knows and will see you as a weak being. Always remember to a dog anger is a weakness, so take a deep breath and control yourself. Should the puppy feel it is stronger minded than the humans it will not want to be at the bottom. Puppy owners should be prepared that the pup may attempt to establish itself as the dominant one in the family. This is where you need to understand a dog's natural instincts and learn their language so you can read them. It may see whether it can physically strike out at his owner like some teens and could nip or growl. Should this happen be prepared to stop the behavior immediately. It is kind of like kids wanting dessert before dinner or to stay up later. You just have to say NO. Each dog is different, just as kids are, therefore you need to figure out what works for you and your situation. If it is being aggressive one method is to pin it on its back and hold him there with a firm NO. If a pup is allowed to get away with bad behavior it will lose respect for the owner and learn that rebelling gets him his own way. The key is for the humans to be calm, confident and firm all at the same time. If you find yourself yelling or angry you as the human are out of control and need to learn how to portray yourself as someone your dog can look up to and respect. Dogs do not listen to unstable humans and anything but calm, confident and firm, to them is unstable. There should be zero tolerance for aggressiveness. Heaps of love and understanding will not stop bad behavior. A pup must be shown fast and firmly that you are the one in charge. If you have a good breeder who understands the dog even returning him for a few days can help as the breeder gets the dog back under control and you assess your own behavior and understanding of this animal you are trying to live with. Sending a dog away to be trained without training yourself never works, as the way your dog is acting often has more to do with the humans it is living with. This goes for any dog of any age. Learn how to groom your dog. Teach it to lie still for grooming and nail trimming. If you are having trouble call the breeder or a behaviorist for help. It is best to have earned a dog's respect and trust in regards to grooming by 16 weeks of age. A pups natural instinct will be to periodically try to test the order in the pack. Especially if there are children. If the owner is submissive, quiet and week, thus making the dog feel the need to lead the home, its respect for its owner will weaken and the owner will become inferior in the dogs eyes. In these cases the owner is destined to be owned by the dog and you will surely see behavior problems emerge. A puppy should have a good start on crate training when it leaves a breeder's home. Help your puppy feel secure by giving it its own bed and crate in a place where it can be alone when it needs some quiet time. It should be crated for one or two naps per day, especially when making and eating dinner and crated at night. It should not ever have the run of the house till after 6 months of age or housebreaking and training can become very difficult. A puppy should start formal obedience by 6 months of age, preferably sooner. Remember when you choose to adopt a dog you are choosing to take an animal into your home. The animal is not a human baby and humans are not born with canine instincts. Take some time to learn about the canine and be prepared to change your way of life to accommodate the new member of the family. The puppies have arrived. They have been weighed and identified; they have nursed and are now sleeping quietly except for the normal twitching. Now what? Your job is not over yet, in fact, it's really just beginning. Nutrition and Feeding The mother will be ready for some food and water. Bring the dishes to the whelping box, as she will not want to leave the newborn puppies. Do not leave the dishes on the floor in the whelping box, as the puppies could crawl into them. Hang the dishes from the side of the whelping box or offer her food and water at least every hours to start. She should be taken outside on a frequent and regular basis to relieve herself. Within days, the mother's appetite will dramatically increase to times her pre-pregnancy intake. She will need a near constant supply of a high quality puppy food do NOT use large breed puppy formulas, which are generally lower in protein, fat, and minerals and water to maintain her weight and health while feeding the puppies. She should not look gaunt or thin if her weight is maintained. Ideally, she should weigh the same at the time of weaning, as she did when she was bred. A healthy puppy is firm, plump, and vigorous. Puppies should nurse every 2 hours or so. If they nurse until their stomachs appear round and they sleep quietly, they are eating enough. If they are crying and moving a lot, they are not eating enough. They may be swallowing air, which makes the stomach appear larger. As they become weaker, they will lay still and not cry. Their weight should double in the first days. Before, during, and after nursing, the mother will lick the stomach and perineal area to stimulate urination and defecation. She will continue to do this for weeks. Weigh the puppy daily for the first 2 weeks, then weigh at least weekly. A food scale typically works well for weighing the puppies. Failure to gain weight is often the first sign of illness in puppies. At about 3 weeks of age, the puppies will begin to imitate the mother's eating and drinking. A secure shallow water dish should now be available at least part of the day. Prepare the puppy mush by placing 2 cups of high quality dry puppy food in a blender with .This should be blended until the consistency of human infant cereal. This feeds puppies of a medium-sized breed. The puppies should receive meals a day of this to start. Once the puppies have checked it out, walked in it, and have eaten some, the mother can be allowed to finish it and clean the puppies off. Each week, increase the amount of food, decrease the amount of the milk replacer and water that is added and the time of blending, so by 7 weeks of age, the puppies are eating dry food. Once they are on dry food, it may be left in with the puppies when the mother is out of the box or the meal times can continue. As the puppies eat more solid food, the mother may be let away from the puppies for an ever longer period of time. If the weaning is not rushed, she will naturally start decreasing milk production, as the puppies increase their intake of solid food. As the puppies begin eating the puppy mush at 4 weeks of age, start changing the mother's diet back to adult food to also help her decrease milk production. Keep increasing the adult food and decreasing the puppy food until by the 7th week postpartum she is eating only adult food. Hopefully she has been fed well during pregnancy and lactation so she weighs the same at weaning as she did before pregnancy. Want to learn how to save on your dog's veterinary care? Click here Sanitation and Housebreaking During and after whelping, the mother should be allowed to go outside to urinate and defecate. Take her out on a leash bring a flashlight if it is dark , and watch her closely, as she could have another puppy. The whelping box needs to be changed at least once a day at this stage, and times a day as the puppies begin eating solids and the mother is not cleaning up after them. A large heavy paper may be laid on the bottom, several layers of newspaper over that, and a tightly stretched blanket over the newspaper. The blanket should be large enough to fit under all 4 sides of the box. If the box was made so the sides set into the floor, the sides are picked up, the blanket stretched, and the sides set down to hold the blanket in place. Puppies can become lost under blankets or under wrinkles in blankets. When cleaning, check the consistency and color of the puppy stool. It should be brown and formed, but not overly firm. Any deviations and the veterinarian should be contacted. To facilitate housebreaking, the puppies should be given definite feeding, playing, sleeping, and elimination areas. Once the puppies are mobile, they will use one area for elimination. Cover this area with a layer of newspapers with cedar or pine shavings on top. The new owners then place a small amount of cedar or pine shavings in the preferred location of their yard to aid in housebreaking. Keep the elimination area clean and dry. Puppies head toward the heat source to nurse so do not have the heat source warmer than the mother. Hanging a household thermometer on the inside of the whelping box will help you know the temperature in the box. Puppies typically lay side by side or on top of each other to share warmth. If the puppies are scattered throughout the whelping box and away from the heat lamp, the temperature is too warm. If they are all piled on top of each other, it may be too cold. Puppies need the extra heat, as they are unable to regulate their body temperature until several weeks old. Health of the Mother Each mammary gland and nipple should be checked at least once a day for redness, hardness, discharge, or streaking color. If mastitis develops, the veterinarian should be notified immediately. If caught early, milking out the affected gland and applying hot compresses will help prevent a spread of the problem. Sometimes, antibiotics are necessary. If she gets multiple glands with mastitis, the puppies will need to be bottle fed. The puppies' nails should be trimmed weekly starting within days of birth. This will help prevent some of the scratches on the mother's mammary glands. The deciduous teeth start coming in around day .Check the mammary glands of the mother daily for bite marks. The mother will have a bloody discharge from her vulva which may be quite heavy for several days. It should decrease in amount and become darker and be almost gone within weeks. The mother's hair may have become very thick and luxurious during the pregnancy. Around the time of weaning, the mother starts to shed. This extreme loss of hair coat is natural and it should be back to normal in about another months. This shedding is more extreme than a normal shed cycle and some mothers become quite bald. This is often called 'blowing a coat. Click here Puppy Healthcare Puppies who are not thriving should be examined as soon as possible by a veterinarian to check for birth defects. Some defects, such as a cleft palate are not compatible with life. These puppies should be humanely euthanized. Dewclaws are removed and tails docked at days of age. Make an appointment with your veterinarian for these procedures to be done. Check your breed's standard, as some breeds need to have dewclaws left intact in order to show. Tail length changes, so again, the current breed standard should be consulted. When the puppies are at the clinic and having these procedures done, the mother should be taken for a walk around the block until the puppies are done. She should not be close enough to the clinic to hear the puppies crying. Once they are put back with the mother, the puppies normally nurse and then sleep. Vaccinations are started at weeks of age. Some breeders give a parvo virus vaccine at 5 weeks of age, if the puppies are at a high-risk. Ask your veterinarian if your puppies should be vaccinated early for parvo virus. They recommend puppy deworming for roundworms and hookworms start at 2 weeks of age and be repeated at 4, 6, and 8 weeks of age. Thereafter, use a heart worm preventive medication that is also effective against hookworms and roundworms. Foster and Smith suggest that owners of newly acquired puppies obtain the deworming history of their new pup and contact their veterinarian to determine if additional deworming is needed. The mother should be dewormed at the same time as the puppies. A health check done by a veterinarian at weeks of age before the puppies head for new homes should include checks for heart murmurs, hernias, cryptorchidism, demodectic mange, other parasites, eye disorders, etc. Normal puppy development The umbilical cord normally falls off within days of birth. Infections of the umbilicus are rare in clean, well-managed kennels. Puppies normally twitch and jerk while sleeping. This helps with the development of their nerves and muscles. The puppies crawl well by days, walk at 16 days, and have a normal gait at 21 days. They need to be on footing that offers traction. By 4 weeks of age, the puppies follow each other and carry toys in their mouths. They will play-fight with each other and learn how to inhibit their bites. If a puppy bites a littermate too hard, the littermate will yelp and stop playing with him. If the puppy is allowed to bite humans, he will not learn to inhibit his bite. It may be cute as a 7-week old, but it will not be as a 7-year old. Puppies are born without teeth. The deciduous baby teeth start to erupt at weeks of age. All of the deciduous teeth are usually present by 8 weeks of age. The puppies' eyes will open around days of age. The retina matures around 21 days of age. Puppies should see clearly by 4 weeks of age. Do not pry open the lids for any reason, as the immature eye is not yet ready to handle light. If the eyes appear swollen before they open, take the puppy to a veterinarian immediately as an eye infection may be present that needs to be treated to prevent loss of vision. Some puppies will take a day to open the eyes while others will take days. The eyes will have a bluish color to them at first and then change to their adult color over time. If the eyes appear white or solid blue, take the puppy to the veterinarian right away. The ears open at days of age. They should hear clearly by 4 weeks of age. Deafness may not be noticeable while the puppies are together and first noticed when the puppy is in her new home. Interactions Between the Mother and Puppies By the time the puppies are weeks old, the mother should have an area near the whelping box, but separate from the puppies to allow her time to rest. At about this time, the puppies will start trying to leave the box to explore. They should be well supervised and have safe toys available. The box at this point should be big enough to be divided between eating, sleeping, playing, and eliminating rooms. At this stage, a crate with the door removed and lined with sheepskin or a dog bed can be given to the puppies for sleeping quarters and to familiarize them with crates. Puppy Socialization Early socialization of the puppies will help them become confident and develop fewer behavior problems. The puppies should be exposed to everything possible from metal food dishes dropping, to vacuums, garage doors opening and closing, thunderstorms, sirens, garbage trucks going past, cats, and other pets, etc. Do not try to keep the area quiet during the day. The puppies need to get used to normal household noises. Children should be allowed to play outside the whelping box supervised so they do not enter the box or drop toys in , as children behave differently than adults. Everything the puppy is exposed to now, will help her become a well-socialized, unafraid adult. The puppies should be handled several times a day. They can be picked up, their teeth looked at, ears checked, toes played with nails will need a weekly trimming , and have anything that may be done as an adult started slowly now. Play helps to develop the puppy's mind, as he needs to find solutions to problems he encounters. If the puppies are not in new homes by 10 weeks of age, they should be separated from each other for a large part of the day and given one-on-one time with humans. They can have play times during the day, but they should eat, sleep, and be handled separately. Being in a kennel group situation beyond weeks of age decreases trainability. Ready to start saving money on pet wellness care? Then take a look at Mint Wellness, the pet wellness plan that provides fast reimbursement on routine pet care. Save on vaccinations, wellness exams, preventatives, dental, and more!