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Many things that we call behavior problems are just Labradors following their natural tendencies. Most bad behaviors are caused by ignorance or lack of training. When we start seeing bad habits in our Lab we need to work on redirecting him toward more acceptable behavior. Fortunately, Labradors are eager to please and are easily trained, but it does take time and consistency. Natural vs. Abnormal Behavior Natural Behavior Many behaviors that become problems are just natural tendencies for your Lab. Barking, digging, and chewing are just a few of the things that Labradors naturally do but when they become a nuisance or destructive these behaviors need to be corrected. Owners need to keep in mind the natural tendencies of the breed of dog they have chosen. Many people choose Labs because of their intelligence. You need to keep in mind that with intelligence comes a tendency to get bored if not properly stimulated mentally and physically. They also choose Labradors because they are loyal and great companions. Since they are loyal they are also protective which means they will bark at any intrusion they think may be a threat. They love your companionship, so when left alone they may get anxious and chew on things. Part of being a good owner is to teach your Labrador acceptable behaviors that still help to meet the needs of his natural tendencies. Abnormal Behavior Abnormal behaviors tend to be more psychological. Many Labs can suffer from anxiety, excessive fear, and aggression issues. These behaviors are not part of their natural inclinations. Usually, for these types of issues, you will need professional help from a dog behaviorist or your vet. You will need someone who is trained to find the root of the problem and help treat your dog. Correction Methods There are several different methods that you can use to help keep your Labrador from destructive behavior. Redirection When your Lab misbehaves he is usually bored or looking for attention. If you yell at him to correct him he still perceives this as a form of attention and this only reinforces the behavior. Remember most of these behaviors are just natural Labrador tendencies. You need to calmly stop him from the behavior and redirect him to a similar activity that is acceptable. Once he is engaged with the acceptable toy, reward him for that behavior. You will see some more examples of redirection listed in the Common Behavior Issues section below. This just means removing the objects that tempt your Lab into bad behavior. It may mean keeping items off of lower levels where he can easily reach them and chew them up, or perhaps putting up a small wire-mesh fence to protect your garden. However, basic commands give your Labrador a foundation of structure. These commands start to teach him to listen to you and obey. If he learns to follow these verbal directions you can use them to redirect his attention and guide him toward better behaviors. Keep a Schedule Labs like structure. They like to know what to expect throughout their day. If you stick to a fairly firm schedule for eating, walking, play time, and bedtime your dog will know what to expect throughout his day and will be less likely to misbehave. Exercise Labradors often partake in destructive behavior out of boredom or to burn off excess energy. A good way to deal with this is to make sure he gets plenty of exercise. Take him for walks, play fetch, or go for a jog. A tired Lab is a well-behaved Lab. Mental Exercise This one goes along with the one above. Labradors are intelligent and need to be mentally exercised as well as physically exercised. Play a game of hide-and-seek or find-the-toy with your Lab. Teach him some new tricks or let him play with some type of puzzle toy. All of these things will help him use up energy and not act out because of boredom. Keep Them Indoors Labradors are social animals and love to be near people. If you tend to leave him outside a lot he will become lonely. This can lead to issues like excessive barking, howling, and digging. It is best for Labs to be kept indoors. Nipping and Rough Play Puppies tend to nip all the time. Their mouth is what they use to explore their world. If you allow them to continue with this behavior it can become a biting issue as they get older. Puppies who stay with their litters until they are 8 or 9 weeks old tend to learn the consequences of nipping from their littermates. They learn that if they nip too hard their playmate tends to yelp and run away. This teaches them that when they nip it can lead to the end of playtime. It is important for you to reinforce this information. When your puppy nips you, yelp like a dog and walk away. Let him know that this behavior puts an end to playtime. The same training can be used for rough play. When you rough play with your puppy you are teaching him that this is an acceptable behavior. That may be fine when he is a puppy but think about a pound Labrador wanting to play rough. When your Lab starts to play too rough then end the play time. Walk away and let him know that this is not acceptable. Once your puppy learns that certain behaviors end his playtime he will stop doing them. It is your job to teach your puppy to play correctly. Chewing Your Labrador loves chewing. You need to teach him. Once you have taken the object away give him a toy that he is allowed to chew on and reward him for chewing on that. Puppies usually chew to explore or expend energy. Older dogs usually chew out of natural habit but sometimes they chew out of anxiety, boredom, or fear. If your dog is chewing when you are around this is probably a regular behavior. However, if he only chews when you are away it may be stress-related. You will need to deal with the root of the problem and find ways to relieve his anxiety before you can resolve the chewing issue. Digging Digging comes naturally to dogs. They like to dig to bury things, to create a cool place to lay, and to hunt for critters in the ground. Unfortunately, when they are doing this they are often digging up your garden or lawn. A good redirection for this is to create a digging box for your dog. All you need is a sandbox filled with soft, diggable dirt. You may want to bury some toys to encourage him to dig in this area. When he digs in the box reward him for his good behavior. Excessive Barking All dogs bark. This is a normal behavior for them. They bark to let you know that someone is outside, that they are hungry, that they want to play… and the list goes on. Constant barking is not normal and it can be quite annoying for you and your neighbors. If your Labrador is barking excessively try to figure out why. Is he lonely? Is he bored? Labs that are left outside a lot tend to bark a lot, especially at night. They are bored and lonely and missing interaction. They want your attention and are making noise to get it. The best way to end this type of barking is to bring your Labrador inside. Some other ways to curb unwanted barking are to make sure your Lab has plenty of exercise and block out things that can cause him to bark. Play soft, calming music to keep him from being anxious. When he is barking excessively redirect him to another activity. It is usually a good idea to get him to sit first and calm down. Once he is calm give him something else to do. An occasional cheese or peanut butter filled toy is a great redirection. It is hard to bark when your mouth is full of peanut butter. Jumping Up When your Labrador is a puppy you probably encouraged him to jump up on you. It was so cute to watch him do that. Labs get so excited when they see you or any other human that they can befriend. They want to jump up and meet everyone face-to-face. One way to redirect this behavior is to start when your Labrador is little. Teach him to sit when he hears someone at the door and to stay until you allow him to get up. Quietly and calmly introduce him to the new person and reward him with lots of petting. If he does jump up, politely ask the person not to pet him but to turn away. He will learn that jumping up does not get him the attention that he is looking for. Occasionally you may have to remove the dog from the situation until he calms down. Begging Labs love food! He is also an optimist. He hopes that if you have food and he keeps begging eventually a tidbit will come his way. Redirect by teaching him to sit or lay by your feet during meal times. NEVER give him anything from the table. You will only be fueling his optimism. If you want to reward him with some scraps do it at the end of the meal in his regular dinner bowl away from the dining table. House Soiling If your Labrador has been house-trained for a considerable time, but then suddenly starts having accidents, he may have a medical issue. Sometimes these issues are caused by bladder problems, diabetes, or several other medical issues. If your Lab has arthritis it may be painful for him to go outside as often as he needs to. If you think it may be a medical issue take him to the vet and have him checked over. Sometimes this is a stress issue. Has something changed in the house? Did you get a new pet? If there is a reason for his stress try to work through that and see if it ends the soiling issue. If your dog is still young he may just be regressing a little. Go through the potty training steps with him again. Take him out frequently and reward him when he goes outside. Separation Anxiety As I have said before, Labradors are highly social animals. They do not like being left alone. That said, you will inevitably have to leave the house at some point. If your dog becomes overly anxious when you leave this could lead to other destructive behaviors like chewing, barking, etc. Try to desensitize him to being left alone. Start out by leaving him alone for short periods of time, then gradually lengthen the duration. You may also want to leave the TV or music on for your dog. Crating you Lab is also an option. It helps him feel more secure and less fearful. Dogs are pack animals and having another playmate in the house can help keep him occupied. Another option is to find someone who can stop by and take him for a walk every day. If your Lab remains extremely anxious then there are medications that can help. Talk to your vet and see what she recommends. Aggression Dog aggression seems to be on the rise. About 4. Roughly 10 people are killed by dogs every year. Most people-directed aggression is caused by stress. Sometimes it is also caused by pain. If your Labrador is in pain because of arthritis or another issue he can be quite snappish. Also, if your dog is losing his sight or hearing then he can be easily startled and snap at the person who startled him. If your Lab is acting out aggressively you need to look for professional help. Talk to your vet or find a good behaviorist. If you keep him entertained, well-exercised and give him lots of attention then chances are the behavior issues will decrease. Teach him alternate, acceptable behaviors and reward him when he behaves. If you see signs of major stress or aggression then seek out professional help. Taking care of your Lab and teaching him proper behavior takes time but in my opinion, the love and affection you receive make it all worth it! Featured Photo courtesy smerikal Did you find this article helpful? Click on one of the Share Links below to share it with a friend. Related articles:. Aggression towards people, other animals Hyperactivity Sadness, depression and being withdrawn Counter-surfing Digging …to name just the most common few! As previously stated, many of these are perfectly normal behaviors but unwanted when living with a human family. But some are real psychological or pathological problems that need to be properly researched and skillfully addressed, most likely by a vet or professional behaviorist. If the behavior problem is just one of normal canine behavior such as digging, barking, chasing small animals or pulling on the leash, natural behaviors but that are unacceptable or unwanted by an owner, then training alternative and acceptable behaviors in their place is the answer. This still takes knowledge of the particular cause and motivation of the behavior, knowledge and skill to choose and train an alternative behavior and patience and dedication to see the solution through. But these types of problems are solvable by the average owner and solutions for these problems will soon be appearing on this site. The sort of advice that can only really be given and be correct if offered by a qualified and knowledgeable professional. The first step is to see a vet to either identify or rule out any physical or pathological problems, and then be referred to a certified and reputable behavioral specialist. Many cases require a unique approach for which the only advice that can really be given is to seek professional help. We have to remember that Labradors were bred for a particular job and come with hard-wired instinctive and driven behaviors that we developed in them through many generations of selective breeding. Labs have needs and desires that have to be satisfied. They have traits and behaviors so deeply genetically ingrained that you simply cannot eliminate them. Although in most cases you can train alternative more acceptable behaviors. There are of course also more severe and worrying behavior problems, stemming from either pathological or deep-seated psychological issues. With understanding, patience, dedication, a caring attitude and a carefully planned scientific approach, almost all problems can be overcome or at least successfully managed. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Some may have seen i wrote a post about my muppet the other days in regards to his appalling behavior when coming inside the house. .We have tried suggestions on there and he's still mental as ever but we're trying to remain positive and patient with him. .My other issue is this behaviour is now becoming more apparent than before both inside and outside the house.He was normally quiet calm, hypo at times like any lab but was content with his surroundings and listening to us. At the moment he is completely different, he's destroying beds just lost number 4 , he's pulling washing off the line while i'm standing there hanging it out which he's never done we have it guarded off normally , he gnawing on my arms, legs, feet and even his toys are copping it surely he can't be teething at 10 months , he's jumping way more than normal, won't listen to commands which he always has listened too and feels that every time we open the door to go inside he will ignore us and come rushing in and run away so we can't put him outside. The only way we have managed to put him outside is with a treat and slowly walk with him to the door and gentle push him outside, which i feel is praising bad behaviour. Nothing different has changed in our routine, we have breafast, he gets a bone, we go for a walk in early afternoon, have a game later than afternoon then dinner around 5. He also repeated all this bad behaviour at my parents house yesterday when he too pulled washing off there line, nearly knock my father over from jumping up at him and wouldn't listen even to a deep mans voice. .He is desexed, and is getting a good decent walk everyday, only thing i can put it down to is slight separation anxiety, yet there is no whinging or crying like he has when he was a small pup, or his brain is on holidays. .Any help would be greatly appreciated. Let's Wrap This Up! Labradors mouth due to their ancestry and genetics. Having been bred to retrieve game for hunters, they naturally enjoy having things in their mouths. Dogs also mouth during instinctive play, when exploring, or relieve teething discomfort. Mouthing and play biting are not aggressive — and there is a significant difference between typical play biting and aggressive behavior. Adopt an immediate preventive training approach to prevent innate mouthing and play biting from becoming an aggression problem. But how? To stop a Labrador from mouthing, teach him his bite inhibition. This is where he learns to control the force of his mouthing. You should initiate bite inhibition when bringing your puppy home, typically around 8 weeks old. They soon realize if they bite their littermates too hard, the fun and play stop! The dam teaches good canine manners and disciplines her puppies when they bite too hard or misbehave. So how exactly do you do this? When teaching your Labrador puppy bite inhibition, make a sharp cry when he mouths or bites you and continue until he lets go. Quickly redirect the behavior using a chew toy, and reward him with a treat and lots of verbal praise. Continue to do this until your pup stops biting or learns to bite without hurting. You are undoubtedly on the right path when you first notice your Lab licking your hand instead of biting. Puppies chew to explore their new environment using their mouths, even before using their visual, auditory, and olfactory senses. They also chew to relieve pain and discomfort when teething, clean teeth, and strengthen jaws. But sometimes, chewing becomes abnormal or destructive, resulting in your Labrador destroying your couch, cushions, furniture, possessions, clothing, and shoes. Labradors engage in destructive chewing due to inadequate obedience training as a puppy, seeking attention, habit, easing hunger, boredom, lack of exercise, and insufficient mental stimulation. They also chew due to loneliness, fear, separation anxiety, malnutrition, or OCD. You will only cause your Lab to fear and resent you and cause confusion and aggression. As with the causes, the solutions for excessive-destructive chewing in your Labrador can be varied. To stop a Labrador from chewing everything, train him from an early age by redirecting his chewing to alternatives such as chew toys, treats, or bones. Fix incomplete training, or seek the help of a professional trainer. Essentially, you need to provide your Labrador with alternative chew toys that can also serve as bites. Consider these two from Amazon: KONG Puppy Toy is made from soft rubber designed for growing teeth and gums but durable enough to withstand the natural desire to chew. This multi-functional toy can be used as a fetch toy or treat-dispensing toy to stuff with delicious treats or peanut butter. It allows a good grip from the wishbone shape and lasts for weeks. You also have various sizes to choose from as your puppy grows. Here are some other helpful suggestions to stop your Labrador from chewing: Puppy-proof your home. You can use a playpen or baby gates to section off part of the house or use a long leash and keep him tied to your waist. Retrain your dog. If you think basic training was poorly done or incomplete during puppyhood, you may need to retrain your Labrador. Consider the help of a professional trainer. Give your Lab a bone to chew. Always supervise your dog when giving a bone. Feed frozen treats or ice cubes. These help your dog to find some relief from sore and painful gums. Try frozen strawberries or raspberries as an alternative healthy treat. Lots of daily exercise. Ensure your Lab has the recommended 2-hour exercise daily for an adult, which could consist of morning and evening walks or runs, and play and fun games at other times. Puppies should receive 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. Consider health issues. Labrador puppies will generally stop chewing, due to teething, around six months of age once the discomfort has gone. Older puppies may also go through a chewing stage up to 12 months old. As long as you keep normal chewing behavior from becoming destructive, your puppy should outgrow this chewing. They are easy to train due to their intelligence, but also their desire for food or treats during training sessions makes training easy. Many owners find it tricky to keep their Lab at a healthy weight. Labradors eat so much and are highly motivated by food due to genetics, illness, lack of nutrients, boredom, or anxiety. Many are obsessed with food due to a specific mutated gene, the POMC. This gene, responsible for appetite, body fat, and weight, is commonplace in the obesity-prone Labrador. The only other breed to have this mutation is the Flat-Coated Retriever. Your Lab may also be eating so much food to relieve boredom, stress, anxiety, or due to a diet deficient in nutrients. You can learn more about separation anxiety in the next section. Furthermore, specific health issues can cause increased appetite and cause your dog to gain weight. Labradors are prone to hypothyroidism and may become obese despite normal or increased hunger. Pica is a disorder where dogs eat inedible objects such as rocks, dirt, wood, socks, toys, or even poop! It can is caused by nutritional shortcomings, starvation, or psychological issues such as anxiety, stress, attention-seeking, or OCD. If your Labrador is snacking on rocks and dirt, he may be suffering from pica. There are many ways to stop your Labrador from overeating. However, your priority is to find out why he is overeating or munching everything in sight, maybe with the help of your vet. You can then formulate a plan together. Here are some suggestions. To stop a Labrador from eating so much, feed a highly nutritious and balanced diet, keep a feeding schedule, monitor portions and weight, and feed alternative healthy treats. Dogs are creatures of habit and love routine. Stick to daily feeding times and monitor portion sizes and calories. Do not allow free feeding, and have your Lab regularly weighed. Ensure your dog is eating highly nutritious food. Ensure your dog has a good-quality nutritious diet. Check out my article on the best diet for Labradors for a ton of nutrition information, type of diet, and more. Alleviate boredom. Not only does he need lots of physical exercise, but lots of cognitive stimulation too. Lots of chew toys and interactive toys will keep your dog entertained. Feed alternative healthy treats. Many store-bought dog treats are full of calories and additives and offer little nutritional value. You can choose some good healthy treats, but fruits and vegetables are better options. Dog-proof your home. Muzzle your dog. If your Labrador tends to eat anything he finds while out on a walk, consider using a muzzle. Separation Anxiety Canine separation anxiety purely means the dog cannot cope with being apart from his owner or family. But are Labradors prone to separation anxiety? Labradors are prone to separation anxiety due to their temperament. They are social, affectionate, friendly, good-natured, and high-energy, and soon get bored. They love to be around their pack, which means you! If they are left alone for too long, they will suffer from separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety will find something to relieve their fear, worry, and stress, so they often resort to destructive behavior. General symptoms are destructive chewing, house soiling, digging, escaping, destroying furniture, barking, and howling. Repetitive behavior, pacing, and self-harm may also occur. Keep departures and arrivals low-key to stop separation anxiety in your Labrador. Leave your dog in a relaxing and comfortable spot with his favorite interactive toys and chew toys. Train him using behavior modification methods such as desensitization and counter-conditioning. You should never leave your Labrador alone for longer than four hours, even less for young puppies. Consider alternatives to prevent or treat separation anxiety. Reduce the time that your Lab spends at home alone by hiring a dog sitter, walker, or professional trainer. Have friends and family call around, use local doggie-day care, and work from home if possible. This toy will keep your dog entertained and is great fun, especially when he finds the treats! Stay connected with your Lab. How cool is that? Use behavior modification techniques. Counter-condition your Lab by training him not to associate departure cues, such as the sound of your keys jingling. The aim is to teach him not to worry about your exit by associating the sound of your keys with getting a treat. Hold back on the doggie kisses and leave! Use desensitization techniques. Gradually teach your dog to cope with being alone by carefully exposing him to being alone in small steps. For example, start by making progressive departures of minutes when you leave your Labrador and progressively increase. Train your dog to be alone from an early age. I would leave my girl in her crate for a few minutes at a time at eight weeks old and gradually increase. Treat with medication. Both anti-anxiety medicine and natural supplements can help treat separation anxiety in dogs. Your vet can advise you of the best treatment plan for your dog. Labrador Urine Marking Behavior Does your Labrador stop on every street corner to pee a small amount? Spraying is instinctive dog behavior, but why do Labradors mark their territory? Dogs will leave their scent on new smells or near where other dogs have urinated. Urine communicates the reproductive status and status rank of the dog. So, why do Labradors mark their territory inside? Labradors mark their territory inside when sexually active, especially in unneutered dogs, or claim ownership of you, e. To stop your Labrador from urine marking inside, neuter while young, keep new and unfamiliar items out of reach, supervise your dog or use a crate. Increase bonding with new pets or family, eliminate anxiety, rule out other medical reasons, fully clean up the mess, and consult a canine behaviorist if needed. Thoroughly clean the areas your dog has marked using an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the smell and prevent further scenting. Myths vs. Barking at Other Dogs Barking is a typical communication behavior in dogs, and Labradors are known to be naturally vocal. Nonetheless, when your Lab has developed an unfortunate habit of barking at other dogs, this may cause you to wonder why? Labradors bark at other dogs due to a lack of socialization and becoming fearful or anxious. Other reasons are insufficient or incomplete training, being protective or territorial of you, or generally being social or excited and wanting to greet or play, especially if under-exercised or stimulated. How to Stop Barking. Work on obedience training and positive reinforcement, allowing time, patience, and consistency. If your Labrador also lunges when barking at other dogs, use a comfortable front clip harness. It is reasonably priced, easy to fit, and comes in different colors and options. Avoid gimmicks such as bark collars and sprays designed to teach your Labrador not to bark, as these only tackle the symptom and not the cause of the problem. Rolling in Fox Poo Bathing your dog can be a challenging task. Their ancestors would disguise their scent to confuse their prey. Dogs also mark their territory by leaving their scent behind and communicating their rank or dominance to other dogs. They also enjoy leaving their smell around. Sometimes, prevention can be your best tactic! To stop a Labrador rolling in fox poo, try to prevent it by keeping him away from known areas frequented by foxes. If your dog suddenly puts his nose to the ground, anticipate he may have picked up on the strong scent of fox poo and quickly distract him away. Resource Guarding Resource guarding is when your Lab displays certain behaviors such as snarling, growling, biting, and lunging over food, favorite toys, or space, e. It is also known as c a n i n e possessive aggression , and your dog might growl at you if you go near their treasured possessions or run away with the item. Although resource guarding is natural canine behavior, it is not desirable. Some owners prefer to try and change the behavior in addition to the usual precautions of keeping people safe, especially children. Early and frequent training can help prevent resource guarding before it becomes a significant problem. Nonetheless, here are some steps to stop your Labrador from resource guarding: Consult a certified trainer or dog behaviorist. Use desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques. Instead, we try to redirect the behavior. Like all other breeds, Labradors have innate behavioral tendencies that are unique. Think of their overwhelming friendliness and easy-going nature. They are a good first dog but make a hopeless guard dog! Your Labrador will develop into the dog that you train him to be. So when socialization and training are not done correctly, behavior problems will inevitably occur. And as you saw in the video, the first one is a lack of structured exercise! Insufficient Exercise and Stimulation The Labrador Retriever is a high-energy dog requiring at least two hours of daily exercise. Leash walking alone will be insufficient. Incorporate a combination of swimming, agility, frisbee, hiking, fetch, and off-leash running in a safe area. Your dog will also need lots of cognitive stimulation and interactive play. Research has confirmed that less active dogs will demonstrate behavior problems than well-exercised canines. Genetic Disposition to Certain Behaviors It has been scientifically proven that dog behavior has both genetic and environmental key factors. This is documented in a study on the genetic examination of behavior traits in dogs whereby the German Shepherd breed was utilized. The research confirmed the theory that dog behaviors are complex traits influenced by multiple genetic and non-genetic factors. In simple terms, your dog may inherit genes that urge him to retrieve. Your Lab may inherit genes urging him to find and recover, just like his ancestors, who retrieved ducks from the hunt. He has a natural desire to bring you back things. Unfortunately, this can sometimes include dead birds or squirrels! However, this does not mean that you cannot subdue the behavior through training. Field-bred Labradors are typically higher energy and more boisterous. Another inherited attribute of the Labrador is their strong pack drive. Extremely social dogs with high pack drives tend to follow their owners everywhere, even to the bathroom! One drawback to this trait is that they may find it difficult when left in kennels for vacations. Poor Puppy Socialization Poorly socialized puppies grow into badly behaved Labradors. This is when the puppy acquires nearly all of his adult sensory, motor, and learning abilities. If a puppy is not socialized well, he will become a problematic and untrainable adult. This makes him more confident and calm than anxious and aggressive in unsocialized and poorly trained dogs. Incomplete Obedience Training Obedience training is crucial in helping your Labrador understand what you expect of him. Then, he can progress to more advanced training, such as sit-stay, wait, speak, roll-over, and other tricks. Many new dog owners believe a week or two of training after bringing their puppy home is enough. Not so! Consistency also means using the exact words to command specific behavior from your Labrador. Aversive Training Methods Punishing your Labrador to make him learn good behavior will only result in the opposite. Your best friend will be so confused and only grow to resent and fear you. They can also cause aggression and escaping behavior. Positive reinforcement, also known as reward-based training, creates the best behavior in dogs because you encourage your pet to repeat good conduct by consistently rewarding him. It simply means giving a reward to increase the frequency of response. Hormonal Effects and Neutering Testosterone is often associated with aggression in male dogs, but studies have proved mainly inconclusive. Neutering is the surgical removal of the male testes or female ovaries. Research results from a large sample of over 13, dogs show that neutering does not necessarily reduce aggression. This interesting study showed no significant increase in aggression in sterilized dogs , except for those between 7 and 12 months of age. Scientists can still not explain this. Additionally, this study discovered that other hormones cause aggression in dogs. Oxytocin a hormone associated with social bonding and sexual reproduction and Vasopressin which maintains the concentration of salts and glucose in the blood plasma and the volume of water in the fluid surrounding cells can negatively impact dog behavior. Letting Your Labrador Run The Show What if you heard a Labrador owner say his dog never badly behaves, only to discover that the owner allows the dog to have the upper hand? Would you call that a well-behaved dog? Failing to set boundaries can be another reason your Labrador has behavioral issues. Dominance aggression is when the dog will try to be the alpha or single out one particular member to dominate. I can certainly relate to this, as my dog tried for months to boss me. Although I was as firm as the male family members, she never wanted to dominate them! Spoiling your dog is one of the major factors leading to dominance aggression in dogs. Medical Conditions or Malnutrition Your Labrador may show behavior problems due to medical issues, either physical, psychological, or both. For example, dogs with obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD may show tail chasing, circling behavior, vocalization, pica, self-directed aggression, and self-mutilation through biting. In this study , the most common clinical features of OCD in dogs were self-mutilation or grooming. Other medical conditions include injury and post-operative pain, which can trigger aggressive behavior. A hungry or malnourished Labrador can also cause behavior problems such as destructive chewing. Sometimes a history of starvation experienced by rescue dogs may leave them with an eating disorder in which they seek nourishment from non-food items known as pica. Owning a Labrador Retriever is exciting and rewarding for most owners. However, behavior problems associated with the breed can sometimes make it a challenge. What is most encouraging is knowing that you can manage these behavior problems. Exercise, training, eliminating triggers, and seeking a canine behaviorist are helpful and constructive ways to help your Labrador overcome his behavior shortcomings. You must practice patience and consistency every day and work at it. Good luck! Behavior Article Links Some of these problems might seem trivial to others. But when it is you that is losing sleep, dealing with complaints from neighbours or repairing destroyed furniture, it is not trivial at all. In this section we take a look at common Labrador behavior problems. We will begin by giving you some general behavioural information and taking you through an FAQ of common Labrador behaviour problems and their solutions. We will then give you links to our most popular Labrador Behaviour articles where you will find detailed answers to your behavior questions. Bad Behaviour or Bad Training? Others are more complex and require deeper investigation. Knowing why a dog behaves as it does, and what caused the problem in the first place is not always helpful. Sometimes it is simpler to just treat the symptoms in front of you. For example, some labrador puppies will become quite aggressive around food at an early age. Others will let anyone take their dinner. At other times, a good understanding of what causes a behavioural problem, and steps may need to be taken to manage the dog, perhaps avoiding the fear trigger. Resolving behavioral problems Treating Labrador behavior issues is normally tackled in one of two ways Training Management Problems such as jumping up, running away, night-waking, dragging you along on the lead, and food guarding, are all best resolved by training. At other times a management approach may be more appropriate. For example, a rescue dog that has developed a deep seated fear of children may simply need to be kept away from kids. The trauma to the dog of trying to desensitise it, and the time factor required to do so may be too great. It may be simpler to keep the dog muzzled in public and rehomed away from small children. Analysing Labrador behavior Our understanding of dog psychology has improved greatly in recent years, but perhaps there is sometimes a tendency to take an analysis of individual dog behaviour too far. If a problem with Labrador behaviour is disrupting your family life, it needs fixing, no matter what the root cause. Not only for the benefit of the dog, but also, in order that peace and harmony can be restored. Dogs do not fare well in households where everyone is stressed and upset. Not a problem dog? Whilst we cannot help loving our dogs, if we can avoid labelling them as having this problem or that problem, and just deal with any behavior that arises in a practical and appropriate way, I suspect their lives might be easier. Behavioral problems in Labradors can normally be successfully resolved. How do I stop my dog jumping up? Jumping up is quite cute in puppies, and of course many of us allow them to do this until they start knocking people over. Curing jumping up is not too difficult, but it requires patience and persistence. My dog is nipping my arms and it hurts! There is a lot of information on biting in small puppies on this website. But it can be very worrying when this behaviour persists, or reappears in an older dog. This is a common problem in families with a young dog aged between 6 and 18 months. At this age, your dog is still mentally a puppy, but he is now a very big puppy, and the biting really hurts. Most biting in older puppies is associated with over-excitement and inappropriate play rough housing with the dog. Check out these two articles for further information as well as the biting information link above. How to play safely with a Labrador How can I stop my dog whining? Dogs often learn to whine when they are crated or left. Happily, there is quite a straightforward training programme to teach your dog to be quiet in his crate. You can find the instructions here: click for quiet. Labradors love to carry things around in their mouths. This is partly because they are natural retrievers, but also partly because they soon learn that picking up your stuff gets them a whole load of attention! Avoid chasing your dog whilst he is carrying something as dogs love being chased, and this will only encourage him to run faster. So keep a little pot of yummy left overs in the fridge for this purpose. You may find your dog is less inclined to pick up your cushions etc, if you give him some soft cuddly toys of his own. Or you may need to pop a baby gate across the sitting room, to keep him away from the sofa and chairs until you are there to supervise. Help us stop our Labrador raiding the trash can! Some behaviours are so common as to be normal, and bin raiding is a universal problem for Labrador owners. And of course, he has all day to figure out how to get in there, whilst you do not have all day to figure out how to stop him. And punishing the dog when you return home and find the contents strewn across the kitchen floor, will only serve to make the dog fearful of you on your return. The best solution for bin raiding is therefore to place the can where the dog cannot get at it, or purchase a Labrador proof bin. How can I stop my Labrador running after other dogs? Most Labradors are very friendly indeed. And one of the biggest problems for many young Labrador owners, is getting them to come back when there are other people around, or other dogs to be played with. Teaching a dog to recall in the real world, where there are lots of temptations, is a skill. And it is one that you can teach to any dog provided you do so in a structured way. Check out our recall training centre for lots more information on recall in general, and this article: Proofing your recall which will help you teach your labrador to recall away from other people and other dogs. You might also find it helpful to read: Why has my recall broken down? My Labrador wakes up too early Early morning waking, or night waking is another annoying problem behaviour that may start in spring or summer as the lighter mornings set in. Sometimes there is a clear trigger for night waking to begin, but the waking carries on after the trigger is removed. In other cases, the early waking puppy just carries on early waking, with the addition of some increasingly demanding barking to hurry you downstairs. We look at night waking in some detail in this article. Night waking — how to restore the peace How can I stop my dog eating poo? This horrible habit is surprisingly common. We have devoted an entire article to what you can do to prevent or cure it. You can check it out here: Why dogs eat poop and what you can do about it. Eating poo is not the only horrible habit that Labradors may indulge in. Take a look at this article: Why do Labradors eat rubbish for more information and help. My dog is over a year old and still chewing up our home! We all know that puppies chew stuff. Especially when they are teething. But many people do not realise that Labradors can be particularly destructive towards the end of their first year, long after they are firmly in possession of a full set of adult teeth. This article: How to stop your Labrador chewing things takes a close look at chewing and other destructive behaviours, and what you can do to resolve them. My dog is so naughty… We all like a well-behaved dog. The answer to that is with a structured training programme. Behind every well behaved Labrador, lie many hours of training. Getting your dog trained may seem like an effort at times, but training brings huge rewards. A trained dog responds to your commands or signals without hesitation, not just at home, but when you are out and about, or visiting friends too. Getting to this point takes time, information and some effort. Check out How to cope with a naughty Labrador before you start. Then skip over to our training section. Once you make a plan and get going, training is actually a lot of fun. For you and for your dog. Getting started with Labrador training The pleasure of a well-trained and obedient dog are immeasurable. So do join the forum where you can chat with other labrador owners all at different stages of the training process. It is great to start training whilst your dog is young, but remember that a dog of any age can be trained. It is never too late to begin. There are many hundreds of articles on this site about Labrador behavior, why not check out the comprehensive list below for further help:. All in all What causes common Labrador behavior problems? The causes of Labrador behavior problems often depend on what kind of behavior problems your Lab displays, their personality, genetics, as well as experiences in life. This is especially true when you consider that there may be differing Labrador behavior by age. However, there are a handful of common causes of behavioral issues in Labradors. Boredom, for example, is a very common cause. Labradors have lots of energy and are very smart. If they feel like they have nothing to do, they may start chewing up pillows, being where they should not be, or digging holes in your backyard, among other things. These instances may be so problematic for you that you may end up wondering how to discipline your Lab puppy. Another huge reason why your Labrador is acting differently may also be because of a lack of exercise. Labradors are big, energetic dogs that need to burn their energy. Otherwise, you may find yourself asking at what age do Labradors calm down. When your Lab does not get enough exercise, they will be more likely to break things or disobey you. It may also result in a Labrador biting problem. Stress can also make your Labrador have a sudden change of behavior. They may start to look scared, shake, hide, or display other Labrador behavior problems that they normally do not show. Another reason behind your Labrador Common Behavior Problems May also be a traumatic or scary experience that your Labrador Retriever has had. This experience may have led to them having depression , post-traumatic stress disorder, separation anxiety, and the like. For instance, your Lab may have been involved in an accident that would cause them to be scared of and react violently to loud, sudden, or high-pitched noises. These may include sudden dietary changes that they may not be comfortable with, lack of sleep, feeling pain, or an underlying illness. Additionally, one other possible reason for your Labrador behavior problems may be that your you have too high expectations for your dog. It may only be that their general sense of fun gets them into trouble that they may mean common Labrador behavior problems for you. What type of Labrador common behavior problems may your dog develop? Scavenging It would not be unusual if your dog sniffs the kitchen floor to look for fallen pieces of food while you cook. However, it can be a problem if your Lab starts to dig through the trash and make a mess to look for food. However, you can curb this habit and decrease it. First, you have to make sure that you never let your dog eat off of the floor. Whenever you feed them, make sure their food is in their bowl. When you hand them food like treats, do not drop it onto the floor. Instead, hand it directly to their mouths. Additionally, you will want to try preparing some preventative measures. For example, if your Labrador always goes through the trash, you can get a trash can that has a cover that you can clip shut. You can also hide your trash can in a cupboard so they cannot reach it. Aggression While Labs normally have sweet personalities, it is possible for them to show symptoms of aggressive behavior. Common symptoms of aggression include growling , barking , biting, and showing their teeth. Typically, it comes from abuse , trauma, and past experiences. How you deal with it will normally depend on the severity of their symptoms and what caused it. Positive reinforcement and establishing dominance is an excellent way to help treat mild symptoms. However, you may need to see a specialist if your Lab shows severely aggressive behavior. Chewing Chewing will be a very common Labrador behavior for nearly all dogs, especially when they are puppies. Sometimes, it may only be that they are teething , as they often stop this habit when they have their adult teeth or when you train them. However, uncontrollable chewing that wrecks your furniture and other belongings is going to be a common Labrador behavior problem that you will have to learn how to deal with. You can control their chewing by showing them what are the acceptable things they can chew, such as their toys. Whenever they chew the right things like toys, you can give them treats to reward them. You can also make sure they get enough exercise. If your dog has too much extra energy, they will find other ways to release it, like chewing your stuff. Getting them enough exercise every day can help get rid of the temptation to chew. Excessive barking Dogs bark to communicate. However, excessive barking can be an issue for you, your family, your neighbors, and more. Your Lab may bark whenever they want your attention. Therefore, they might bark excessively if they lack attention. A simple way to help them feel more loved is by keeping them inside more often. Dogs that are outside the house and alone often feel lonely and will bark to grab your attention. You can also close your curtains if your dog barks at people walking down the street. Begging Labradors are hungry dogs that love food. However, that makes them more likely to beg for food every time you try to eat, which can be bothersome. To stop them, you should never give them food that you are eating. If you give them bites to eat while you are at the table, they will always come back for more. You should also redirect them when they beg to sit near you or lay down next to your feet. Digging Remember how Labs are smart? Well, they get bored quickly and will find a way to keep themselves entertained. Luckily, keeping them indoors with lots of toys can easily stop them from wanting to dig in your yard. Jumping up You may have found it extremely cute before when your Lab puppy would jump on your legs to get your attention and bite or nip your hand. However, it may be a lot more painful and bothersome now that they are fully grown adults. First, you should make sure to stay calm and not get mad at your Lab when you tell them to stop. Otherwise, they may think that you do not appreciate their greetings. What you can do instead is to redirect their behavior. This method is especially good to start teaching them when they are young. When they see you enter a room, tell them to sit and stay until you let them get up. Once they get up, you can pet them and hug them. If they try to do this to other people, tell the person to turn away and to discourage their behavior. It will help your Lab learn that they do not need to jump on people to say hello. Your Lab may just be acting the way they do because they do not know what is right or wrong until you teach them. For instance, scavenging and digging are natural instincts for dogs. So, if they start to do that, you have to teach them that it is wrong. Otherwise, they will not realize that they should not do it. More importantly, it is your job to teach them what they can and cannot do. Labrador Retrievers are generally very easy to train, so you can easily rectify any common Labrador behavior problem. All you need is a little patience. We have suggested some tips above that you can take note of to know how to stop common Labrador behavior problems when they arise. If you need these behavior problems in your Lab changed, you have to make sure that you train them out of it. Post navigation. Your dog is special! Chances are that you chose her because you like Labs and you expected her to have certain traits that would fit your lifestyle: Bouncy, cheerful, loyal, and enthusiastic Good with kids and other pets Above average intelligence and trainability when positive reinforcement training methods are used Loves to play games, especially fetch People-oriented and eager to please Even temper and gentle disposition However, no dog is perfect! Of course! Loyal and lively, these water-loving dogs make exceptional family members and hunting partners. They were valued by fisherman for their trainability, trustworthiness, and work ethic. Fulfilling their retriever name, they would dive into icy cold waters to help pull in fishing nets and occasionally catch stray fish that had escaped. Today the Labrador comes in two varieties: the American tall and lanky or English short and stocky. Whether American or English ancestry, there are three color versions — black, blonde, and brown. When given plenty of vigorous exercise and attention, these sweethearts are gentle and well-behaved in the home. All you need is a ball to throw and your Lab will love you for life! The Labrador Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Labrador. By knowing about health concerns specific to Labrador Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Labrador Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Labrador Retrievers. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Lab looking and feeling her best. And unfortunately, your Lab is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Labrador Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Roundworm egg as seen under the microscope. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Labrador is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Labrador is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off blood supply to the stomach, and sometimes the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as 30 minutes. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes out , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a chronic liver disease, called hepatitis, starting when he is middle aged. We usually diagnose it with blood testing and liver biopsy, and we treat it with medication and special diets. Signs of liver disease do not usually occur until most of the liver is already damaged or destroyed. Early detection and intervention with routine blood screening allows us to detect this problem at an earlier, more treatable stage. Bleeding Disorders Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Hemolytic Anemia and Thrombocytopenia Labradors are particularly prone to some relatively rare diseases of the blood. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic. His gums will look whitish or yellow instead of the normal bright pink color. Sometimes an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Labrador Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Illustration showing a tear in the cranial cruciate ligament of the knee joint. The cranial cruciate ligament is one of the four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, which includes your Lab. Usually surgical correction is done to stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary to get the best outcome. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like playing Frisbee are key in avoiding this painful injury. When Labrador puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bone properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or a regular puppy diet. Weigh your puppy every three to four weeks. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition that could occur in your Labrador Retriever causes a wobbly, drunken gait. This condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, happens because there is a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck, which pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. If the nerves do not send signals to the brain the way they are supposed to, your dog cannot feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery are treatment options. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Labs have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars and require daily insulin injections. It is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Allergies In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch. In dogs, rather than sneeze, allergies make their skin itchy. Commonly, the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for this condition. Bleeding Tumor Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Labrador Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Abnormal lymphocytes, as seen under the microscope, confirming a diagnosis of lymphoma. Lymphoma Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Labrador Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer, with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Treatment can be costly, however, and is a lifelong commitment. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Unfortunately, Labrador Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. The adrenal glands are situated along the vena cava the large vein in the abdominal cavity near each kidney. These small glands release many important hormones in the body. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Lab is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite and reduced activity level. Later, a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss are characteristic. Treatment usually includes oral medications, and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary, or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, with Labrador Retrievers commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, they will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some breeds like your Labrador can be born with a variety of heart defects. They can also cause problems with the electrical signals that control the heartbeat or with heart valve function. Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting. Exercise Induced Collapse Exercise Induced Collapse, or EIC, is just what it sounds like — a young, apparently healthy Labrador collapses to the ground suddenly while exercising. In a few minutes, the weakness passes and he can get up again. Affected dogs cannot run for too long, especially in hot weather, so a day of hunting or strenuous hiking is probably not a good idea. Heat stroke can occur along with EIC. Limiting exercise is the only treatment and pet parents should be vigilant to avoid overheating. Genetic testing can be done to diagnose the disease and to screen dogs before breeding. Muscle Disease Labrador Retrievers may develop a disease of the muscles, called myopathy, somewhere between three and seven months old. Physical signs include bunny hopping, loss of muscle tone in the limbs, a stiff gait, or carrying the head low. Most dogs with myopathy are stabilized by twelve months of age, have a normal life span, and are suitable as house companions: no hunting or working! Taking Care of Your Labrador Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Lab live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Labrador Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Always walk your Lab on a leash, she has a tendency to run off after interesting smells and people. She has a passion for water and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Labrador Retriever needs help. For the most up-to-date information on DNA and other screening tests available for your pal, visit www. Your Labrador counts on you to take good care of her, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that she lives a long and healthy life. Please contact us when you have questions or concerns. References: Ackerman L. Second edition. AAHA Press; .Veterinary medical guide to dog and cat breeds. Jackson, Wyoming. Teton New Media; .Gough A, Thomas A. Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats. Wiley-Blackwell; .Canine Inherited Disorders Database [Internet]. University of Prince Edward Island.

Brindle 2. She needs plenty of exercise and lots of play! Given that both the Boxer and the Pitbull were bred for use as working dogs, these breeds are very energetic, so your Boxer Pitbull Mix requires a lot of exercise. This is what a well-exercised Boxer Pitbull Mix should look like: The Boxer Pitbull Mix is very playful and will need lots of toys at home. Careful, though! With her strong jaw and love of chewing, this dogs can destroy a chew toy within minutes. When you take her out, take a ball or a Frisbee to play fetch. She will love it! You should take her out for a brisk one-hour walktwice a day. If you are running, twenty minutes to half an hour should be enough. If your dog tires you will notice her slowing or beginning to pant excessively you should stop for a five-minute break and hydrate her. I recommend taking out a collapsible doggie bowl in which you can give her water. A note on exercising your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy This advice on exercise applies to the adult dog only, as when large-breed puppies do too much running and ball-chasing this can cause long-term injuries. With your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy, it is best to do lots of short walks and indoor play until she matures, at about 1 year — 16 months. Watch this 11 week old Pitbull Boxer Mix. She is curious, playful, active, and absolutely, jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Whatever the weather — not with this dog! In rainy weather, she will need a doggie coat to keep her warm. During summer months, it is best to take her out in the early morning or the evening when the sun is less intense. She may still need sunscreen, but make sure you purchase one without zinc oxide, as it is toxic for dogs. The Pitbull is also a very affectionate dog when well-socialized, who will lick you all over if you give her an inch. She was in fact bred for both work and companionship , and due to her gentle nature, is beginning to be used more and more as a therapy dog. Both Boxer and Pitbull are also great with children , which makes them excellent family dogs. The Boxer is very patient and protective, while the Pitbull is solid, a people-pleaser and highly trainable. So mix them together and what have you got? A companionable, affectionate dog who fits in perfectly with a family, wants a lot of attention and gives in return. It is, of course, worth noting that as puppies they are going to be more hyper, and so their contact with children must be supervised. Also, your dog must be well-exercised to be around children, as if not she will be incredibly excitable and could knock over a small child. Her guard dog instinct is strong, which can be useful if there is an intruder or attacker. These are courageous dogs who used to risk their lives baiting bulls, so have no doubt that she will defend you and yours if necessary. If this instinct gets out of hand, however, it can become a problem. You must make sure that you socialize your Boxer Pitbull Mix from a young age with as many people as you can. Invite friends and neighbors to your home and provide her with a positive association by having the person give her a treat when they arrive. As long as you train her well and stay consistent, this dog will be the friendliest dog around. She might be too hands-on for older pets Providing they are both socialized properly, both breeds can get on well with other animals, particularly Boxers. As for play style, Pitbulls can be rough and Boxers like to use their front paws when playing much like a boxer… oh, that makes sense! People are also beginning to look past the negative stigma around Pitbulls and realize their high intelligence and trainability, too. Director of Operations at Universal K9 claims that out of the hundreds of dogs he has trained for police work, the Pitbull, Kiah, is one of the top three he has ever placed. These dogs can be stubborn, though, meaning that you need to be firm and consistent with them. As long as you are in charge, your Boxer Pitbull Mix should pick up basic commands quickly. Make sure you do enough repetition and provide rewards and lots of praise. As puppies, they are boisterous and energetic little characters. You will need to be assertive in order to get their focus. She is a moderate shedder Though these dogs have a short coat, they are moderate shedders and will require a good grooming session once a week. They will probably lose more fur in the Spring, from April through May, so it may be a good idea to brush her twice a week during these periods. She will also need her ears checked monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. She is usually healthy but has some potential health concerns The Pitbull Boxer Mix is generally a healthy breed, as both pure breeds are as long as she gets sufficient exercise, of course and as I mentioned in the intro it can live for up to 13 years. Having said that, it is always worth being informed on any potential health issues this breed can develop, so here are the main ones your dog could be prone to: Cancer While the majority of Boxers are healthy , they are at risk of an aggressive form of cancer called hemangiosarcoma , which occurs in the blood vessel cells. It can be difficult to detect, but signs can include weakness, a distended abdomen, difficulty breathing and weight loss. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible, as this cancer can spread rapidly. Hip dysplasia This condition consists of a malformation of the hip joint, where it is unstable or loose in the socket. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals shows that this condition occurs in both breeds , although Pitbulls are more susceptible. Severe cases can lead to arthritic joints and lameness. Signs can include walking or running with an altered gait and reluctance to fully extend their rear legs or jump. Weight control helps enormously with this condition; keep her slim, as any excess weight will put stress on her joints. Heart disease The Boxer is prone to a heart problem called aortic stenosis , which in most cases of the disease the dog is born with. This disease causes narrowing of the aortic valve, which puts pressure on the heart. Symptoms can include rapid breathing or difficulty breathing, sudden loss of consciousness, and congestive heart failure. If your vet picks up a heart murmur, the diagnosis can be confirmed with an X-ray and a cardiac ultrasound. Allergies Pitbulls can have various allergies , so your Pitbull Boxer Mix may be susceptible. They can be treated with antihistamines, and in the case of skin irritation, you should use shampoos specifically designed for sensitive skin. Conclusion Are you a family with children without any older pets? Are you ready to dedicate your days to plenty of exercise and play with your new lively companion? Can you give her the consistent training she needs? If the answer is yes to all of the above, you are more than ready to own a Pitbull Boxer Mix, and she will be more than happy to have you. Have you got a Pitbull Boxer Mix and a story to share? Comment below! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Had her posted on the local shelter site but no takers. We have a year-old Chihuahua and 8-year-old Yorkie so keeping the new dog inside is not possible. For a temporary measure we put a cardboard box with lots of pillows and blankets warmed in the dryer on the porch swing. It has since warmed up into the range. She appears to be happy running around outside and sleeping on the porch swing near the now chewed up box. We have ordered a dog house for her and are having her spayed tomorrow. We are a late middle-aged couple but I hope to be able to walk with her at least once a day. I hope you can wish us well for rescuing her. This sweet creature, unfortunately, gets a bad rap because of its past and because of owners who raise Pit Bulls improperly and for inappropriate reasons. Despite being originally bred for fighting, playful Pitties excel in being companions, working dogs, and service dogs. As long as you properly train and socialize your APBT, it will get along well with kids and other pets. The American Pit Bull Terrier With a height that ranges from 17 to 21 inches 43 to 53 cm and a weight that can reach up to 60 pounds 27 kgs , the Pit Bull has a muscular and proportionate body with floppy ears and a long tail. Pitties are also famous for their irresistible smile, which gives this dog a happy, expressive face. The Boxer Bred as an ancient war dog, the Boxer is another muscular and powerful dog that is said to be great with families. As a natural jumper, the playful and energetic dog needs an owner with a lot of patience who can provide him the exercise, training, and socialization he needs. A Boxer puppy It has a short muzzle and full, round eyes, and looks confused or curious in an irresistible way. With a short, sleek coat, this dog has a height between .Boxers, without a doubt, are loving dogs. Does this hybrid look more like Pit Bull or the Boxer? Their appearance is unpredictable, but one thing you can be sure of is that Pitoxers could have more attributes from one parent compared to the other. How big will a Pitbull Boxer mix get? Male and female Pitoxers can grow to 17 to 20 inches 43 to 51 cm and 16 to 19 inches 41 to 48 cm in height, respectively. Males have an average weight range of 60 to 80 pounds 27 to 36 kg while females can weigh between 50 to 70 pounds 23 to 32 kg. The beautiful Pitbull Boxer Mix This medium-to-large dog has a broad head and chest, short muzzle, long legs, and a short, smooth coat. Its coat comes in all sorts of colors, but the most common ones are black, brown, yellow, and tan. With their short hair and lack of double coat, they are sensitive to extreme weather conditions. During summer, stay away from intense heat by taking your Boxer Pit mix out early in the morning or at night. They also have a fun-loving, even-tempered nature, so they usually fit in well with most families. Boxer Pitbull mixes generally have a more stable temperament and are less aggressive. They like staying close to their pack, so many of them are affectionate and loyal companions. The key is to reduce the likelihood of aggression in the Boxer Pit mix is proper training. You can keep your Pitoxer from turning into an overprotective guard dog by introducing him to as many animals and people as you can. If they are socialized at a young age and are treated with love and respect by the people around them, these crossbreeds can be such a joy to have around. A good dog is a reflection of its owner, and how your Pitbull-Boxer cross turns out depends on how you raise it. Does this pup look like a scary fellow to you? How does the Boxer Pitbull Mix behave around other pets like cats? If a Pitoxer puppy gets proper socialization, it will grow up without having trouble getting along with the other pets that you have in the house. Yes, even with cats. Taking in a full-grown Pitbull Boxer Mix is a different matter. Prepare for a potentially problematic situation between him and the other pets, especially cats and smaller dogs. Be gentle yet consistent in teaching your dog commands. Use rewards and lots of praise to encourage him to be obedient. Punishing your pet is likely lead to result in aggression. Do these hybrids shed fur? Brushing his coat once a week is enough. You can use a bristle brush or a grooming mitt for ease. Unfortunately, the coat of the Pitbull Boxer mix is not hypoallergenic due to its moderate shedding. You can bring them to the vet or a reputable groomer once a month for ear check-ups, too. Big breeds like the Boxer Pit need 2 cups of dry dog food a day, split into two or three meals. If your dog has an average level of activity, they would need around 1, to 1, calories a day. Aside from food, make sure your Boxer Pit mix has clean drinking water at all times. Providing the exercise these crossbreeds need Coming from strong, muscular purebred parents, the Pitbull Boxer mix requires a lot of physical activity. Help your Boxer Pit mix release his pent-up energy through 2 hours of physical activities per day. Once you notice that your dog is starting to slow down and pant, give him a 5-minute break and give him some water to hydrate and cool-off. Make sure to give your dog the exercise it needs. Insufficient physical activity can lead to frustration which means barking, digging, and destruction. These are tips for a full-grown Pitoxer, though. Health problems that the Pitbull Boxer Mix may get You might think that giving your dog enough exercise and keeping an eye on his diet should keep him healthy enough throughout his lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Though these hybrids are generally healthy, they can still be susceptible to the health conditions that affect their parent breeds, such as:. Health and breeding information What diseases can occur in Pit Bull and Boxer mix. American Bully Boxer mixes are a popular hybrid breed that combines several different positive characteristics. The combination of two very robust breeds makes this type of dog very suitable for demanding everyday family life. Some of the more common diseases in American Bully Boxer mixes include allergies, asthma, anemia, cystic fibrosis, and heart disease. Allergies are very common in this breed, especially if their owners are not careful about pollutants the dogs come in contact with. Asthma is also a common symptom especially in older animals. Anemia can manifest itself through fatigue and weak muscle performance, and can cause the animals to suffer from infections and other diseases. Cystic Fibrosis is a very rare hereditary disease that causes faulty cholesterol deposits in organs and tissues, often leading to infections and severe disease symptoms. Heart disease also occurs in American Bully Boxer crossbreds and affects the cardiovascular system. These diseases can be prevented by using the proper preventative measures, such as regular veterinary checkups. However, if complications have already occurred, owners should act quickly and professionally to protect the animal's health. Good nutrition and adequate exercise are also essential for Pit Bull-Boxer mixed breeds to improve growth as well as overall health. When interested in an American Bully Boxer mix, it is important to take a close look at the animal's breeders and ancestors to ensure that it does not suffer from genetic defects or hereditary diseases. Good husbandry and care is also crucial for a healthy and happy pet. What does this mixed breed look like? The coat quality and color of a Pit Bull and Boxer mixed breed is very different. Usually their coats are short, but there are some with medium length hair. Their fur is usually very smooth and soft. In the past, the coats were mainly available in typical Boxer colors such as brown and white, but nowadays they can be found in a variety of colors, including black, fawn, gray, red and cream, for example. Most dogs have a combination of these colors. They are also usually pied. The variety of colors can look unique and very special. What are breed characteristics of this mix dog? An American Pit Bull and Boxer mix is a medium sized breed that is usually between cm tall and weighs between kg. This breed has a broad, muscular build reminiscent of a bulldog, combined with a prominent skull and large, expressive eyes. The pattern of the coat varies, but most often it is either one color, or a white or brownish patch on a black, gray or brown background. Fur length. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bullboxer Pit Highlights The Bullboxer Pit is a mixed breed dog. Bullboxer Pits may tend to overeat. Owners must be diligent about monitoring diet. Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. The most regularly seen coat colors are brown, tan, yellow, and black. Although their coats are easy to maintain, Bullboxer Pits do shed all year long. Brushing can help. Due to their exercise requirements, physical strength, and need for training, this breed might not be best for novice dog owners. Boxers came on the scene in Germany back in the s; the dogs were often used to transport supplies and ferry messages to troops during the first two World Wars. The American Pit Bull Terrier was first employed in blood sports and used in baiting bears and bulls. The first ever Bullboxer Pits can be traced back to a German dog breed called the Bullenbeisser, which is now extinct. Due to the care and attention Bullboxer Pits require from an owner, many of them can end up in shelters. Bullboxer Pit Size The Bullboxer Pit is often described as a medium-sized dog, although they are also stockier and sturdier than many other middle-sized canines. Most weigh in at 50 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 20 inches. Female Bullboxer Pits can often be a little smaller than their male counterparts. Bullboxer Pit Personality Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. These dogs can be especially devoted to their families, and often become very protective of any children in the household. Very upbeat walks—or even jogs—are required, so the owner must also be able to maintain a healthy and regular exercise routine. Around two hours of exercise per day is required—adding agility training or even swimming to the daily sessions can help vary things up. Apartment dwellers may find that many buildings do not permit Bullboxer Pits to live with them. Some of the more common health problems Bullboxer Pits suffer from include: Obesity due to overeating. Boxer pitbulls are one of the original crossbreeds. Boxers originated in Germany during the s and were useful in times of war. Known for their intelligence, boxers would deliver messages to the battlefield across long distances. On the other hand, American pit bull terriers were used for baiting animals like boars and bulls in blood sports. In the past, boxer pits were known as the Bullenbeisser by German breeders. Unfortunately, this specific version of the boxer pit went extinct many years ago. That said, similar practices are used to create the boxer pits that you see today. Boxer pitbulls are gorgeous dogs. Their fur is often straight and smooth but long enough to cause problems with shedding. A boxer pitbull also has big, wide dark eyes and straight, pointy ears. However, some ears may droop on boxer pitbull mixes. In many cases, the way they look depends on the breeder and the dogs involved in the breeding process. Other facial features include a short snout, long legs, and a broad chest. When it comes to color, pitbull boxers are usually light brown with patches of white. Some boxer pits may have more brown or a darker shade of brown that gives off a maroon appearance. What Size Is a Pitbull Boxer? Pitbull boxers are not the biggest dogs but are not the smallest breed either. The average boxer pit weighs between 50 and 80 pounds, so there is some variation there. Variation likely depends on the breeder and the dogs used for breeding. When it comes to height, boxer pits are not that tall. When standing on their hind legs, they may reach close to 50 inches. Boxer pits have short and smooth coats. Boxer pits are known for being loyal and intelligent. Boxer pitbulls are also good with other animals and children but only under the right conditions. Are Boxer Pitbulls Affectionate? Boxer pitbulls are affectionate dogs that are loyal to their owners. They want to play with you, spend time with you, and even cuddle up in your lap. Boxer pitbulls are also easy to play with. Running in the backyard is sufficient, but they are also great hiking companions. In fact, you can do most activities with a boxer pit. Boxer pitbulls are great with kids; they will play with most toddlers and teenagers without hurting them. Plus, children can wrestle around with them without them getting too aggressive. This makes boxer pitbulls great companions for both adults and children. That said, there is a catch. Boxer pits do have aggressive tendencies when not socialized properly. Furthermore, boxer pits may be too large to play with babies and toddlers because of their weight and strength. Boxer pitbulls are good with other animals. However, they are larger dogs, so make sure you watch how your animals interact closely for signs of aggression, injury, or danger. Are Boxer Pitbulls Aggressive? Socialized boxer pitbulls are not aggressive. Do Boxer Pitbulls Bark a Lot? Not all boxer pitbulls have the same traits, so some dogs may bark at cars as they pass your window. Ultimately, it depends on the traits the dog inherits from its parents. Are Boxer Pitbulls Intelligent? Pitbull boxers are intelligent dogs and respond well to most types of training. Boxer pitbulls are also smart enough to understand triggers for rewards and punishment. Are Boxer Pitbulls Easy to Train? Intelligence is a big factor when it comes to trainability. They respond well to reward-based training and positive feedback. Moreover, they enjoy pleasing their owners, which makes them easier to train. For example, punishment does not help them learn. Instead, it leads to the opposite and increases aggression. Another problem is that boxer pitbulls become overly excited sometimes. When this happens, they become more stubborn and harder to train. Luckily, the solution here is to just let them cool off for a few minutes. Are Boxer Pitbulls Energetic? Great activities to help your boxer pit expend energy include walking, hiking, running, and fetching. Of course, plenty of safe chew toys will help too. Boxer pitbulls can be good apartment dogs, but it depends on how much space you have. Smaller apartments will struggle to contain the energy of a boxer pitbull, which may result in damage and restlessness. Boxer pitbulls also benefit from time spent outdoors in backyards and parks. Are Boxer Pitbulls Good Watchdogs? Boxer pitbulls are good watchdogs. Boxer pitbulls also get defensive over their home or owners, so they may display aggression towards aggressors. Boxer pitbulls, like many other breeds, can be good service dogs. That said, boxer pitbulls are becoming increasingly popular as emotional support animals ESAs. How to Care for Boxer Pitbulls? Caring for a boxer pitbull is easy when you have enough space and free time. As for grooming and other types of maintenance, boxer pitbulls are low-maintenance dogs. Boxer pitbulls are low maintenance when it comes to grooming. To groom your pitbull boxer, give them a few baths every three months with mild dog shampoo. While that may seem like a big gap between a bath, over-grooming can lead to skin issues. Do Boxer Pitbulls Shed? Boxer pitbulls shed a minimal amount of fur throughout the year. Brushing them every two or three weeks is enough to maintain their coat and remove excess hair. What Should a Boxer Pitbull Eat? Boxer pitbulls need a diet full of nutrition because of their high energy levels. Some important specific ingredients to look for in dog food for a boxer pitbull are ground bones, fat healthy fats , and vegetables. However, you should consult your veterinarian on all diet matters first. Boxer pitbulls have a few common health issues. These health issues include: Hip dysplasia Hemangiosarcoma cancer Allergies Depending on the health issue, there are a few ways to prevent them. Hip dysplasia is challenging to prevent, but your best option is to watch them as they age and limit their activity. For example, limit sudden changes of direction and aggressive pulling. To prevent other issues like cancer, take your boxer pitbull to the vet often to check for heart murmurs and other risk factors. For allergies, vet checkups will help you get the appropriate treatments. Boxer pitbulls have an average lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Are Boxer Pitbulls Expensive? Boxer pitbulls are not expensive dogs — at least when you compare them to purebred dogs like Alaskan huskies or German shepherds. You may also find boxer pitbull for free at adoption centers and online. How to Find a Boxer Pitbull Breeder? How long have you been breeding boxer pitbulls? Are your boxer pitbull puppies socialized? When was the dog last vaccinated? Is there a guarantee of health? Can You Adopt a Boxer Pitbull? Yes, you can adopt a boxer pitbull, and the process is often easy. Are Boxer Pitbulls Purebred? Boxer pitbulls are not purebred dogs. A boxer pitbull is a mix between a boxer and a pitbull. Furthermore, boxer pitbulls respond well to training and can learn dozens of voice and hand commands. Boxer pitbulls also have a mild temperament when it comes to barking, which is great for new dog owners. Therefore, boxer pitbulls may be a blessing for dog owners who love their antics, but also possibly too much work for someone looking for a more low-key dog. Below we list traits you must love to enjoy a boxer pitbull: Affectionate and playful. The recipe features real meat, garden veggies, and fruit plus whole grains and LifeSource Bits rich in antioxidants. It also features ingredients that support healthy growth and development for a growing pup. Natural sources of chondroitin and glucosamine are the building blocks of healthy joints and cartilages ideal for mobility. It is packed in vitamins and minerals with antioxidant benefits for lifelong health and happiness. This kibble made for large breed adult dogs also features Iams DHA Gold to promote mental sharpness and alertness and also to encourage healthy cognitive ability. It is crafted with prebiotics for healthy digestion and strong defenses. Puppies and adult pooches have diametrically different nutritional needs, and senior canines require kibble that is gentle on their aged teeth and stomachs. We suggest you pick one of our recommendations for the best puppy food brands and the best senior dry dog food and see how your pup responds. Who knows? Given that your Pitbull Boxer is neither big nor small, they may like the taste of the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food alike, so you might want to offer them both kinds! Pitbull Boxer Mix Exercise Requirements The general advice for most dogs would be to train them while they are young. But in the case of your Pitbull Boxer cross, you have to very cautious. Puppies of large-breed origin that exerts too much energy from running or playing can cause injuries that may last his lifetime. For puppies, activities may be limited to regular short walks or play until it has reached a certain maturity, around one year up to 16 months. As it gets old, the daily exercise requirement will also change. For an adult Pitbull boxer, minutes of exercise should be adequate to maintain good health. It is a very energetic hybrid so they will thrive in a lively environment. An ideal home would mean lots of space to move around, inside or in the backyard. Some states enforce restrictions with regards to Pitbull mixes like your pitbull boxer, so you have to keep it on a leash while out exercising. Using a leash will also prevent them from running into or jumping into everyone they encounter. They are most happy walking around in the city or the Dog Park or even trudging in the mountains. Another essential thing to consider is the weather. During the rainy season, your dog will need a raincoat to protect her from the rain and also to keep her warm. Sunscreen can be used but avoid products with zinc oxide, as it is a poisonous substance. The jacket provides full chest coverage, and the solid print is stylishly chic. The elastic leg straps and adjustable fastener guarantees a snug band comfortable fit. It also features reflectorized stitching so you can see your dog even at night. It is guaranteed durable — it features a galvanized cable and coated with crack-resistant vinyl. It should be able to withstand up to 7x the weight of your dog. My Dog Nose It! Pitbull Boxer Cross Training The combination of Pitbull and Boxer is explosively stubborn, so it is a suitable pet for someone with a firm and unyielding grip in training and socialization. And as always, your dog will react and respond best with positive reinforcement, rewards, and incentives. Punishment will never work, and more often than not, will only create or aggravate behavioral problems. It is essential to reward your pet to encourage positive behavior. Early socialization and training from puppyhood will form the foundation of a well-adjusted dog. Training your Pitbull Boxer should be a piece of cake because of their ability to pick up commands. To get their focus though, you would need to be tough and establish yourself as the master and make him obey you. We listed some training activities you can try out with your petpal: Behavior Training — How do you train him to stop barking mad? Constant practice will help you achieve the desired effect but never shout at him even if he continues to bark. Also, allow him to learn commands other than barking. Keep in mind that the goal is to reward your pup for being silent. Chores Training — Teach him to fetch your newspaper for you. Playing fetch with a toy or a ball should prep your dog for this activity. All you have to do is replace the toy with the newspaper and tech your Pitbull boxer how to get it, pick it up or bring it back to you. Fun Training — Rollover is one activity designed with your big Boxer Pitbull in mind. Start with getting your dog to lie down, and eventually how to roll over. Make sure you reward each action accordingly, and of course, practice makes perfect. Pitbull Boxer Combination And Families The Pitbull Boxer will become accustomed to any family dynamic most especially when trained well and socialized correctly. Their energetic and sometimes rowdy nature can knock off small bodies, so be extra careful if you have kids. There are specific training designed to help you manage this kind of behavior. Check with your local authorities with regards to the legal status of Pitbull mixes in your area. Find out if your Boxer pitbull mix is banned or restricted. Not only will they thrive in large spaces to allow lots of movement, but they will also want owners who will dedicate their time to train and socialize and to love and care for them.

Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. Loyalty, affection, intelligence, work ethic, and good looks: Boxers are the whole doggy package. Bright and alert, sometimes silly, but always courageous, the Boxer has been among America's most popular dog breeds for a very long time. A male can stand as high as 25 inches at the shoulder and weigh lbs; females are a little smaller, lbs and inches tall. Their muscles ripple beneath a short, tight-fitting coat, and the dark brown eyes and wrinkled forehead give the face an alert, curious look. The coat can be fawn or brindle, with white markings, and some are born solid white. Boxers move like the athletes they are named for: smooth and graceful, with a powerful forward thrust. Boxers are upbeat and playful. Their patience and protective nature have earned them a reputation as a great dog with children. They take the jobs of watchdog and family guardian seriously and will meet threats fearlessly. Boxers do best when exposed to a lot of people and other animals in early puppyhood. The Bullenbeisser descended from Mastiffs was crossed with the Old English bulldog to eventually produce the modern breed. Bullenbeissers were generally used as catch dogs for hunting bear, wild boar, and deer. With their strong jaws, they would catch and hold prey until their hunter masters came. The first Boxers were developed to be a smaller, faster dog for similar purposes. Unfortunately, like their bulldog ancestors, Boxer dogs were sometimes used for bull-baiting, and, after the practice was outlawed, for dog fighting. Many are still working dogs, for the military and as police dogs. But most have taken an equally important place as the popular companion dog we know and love today. Boxers are, for the most part, versatile dogs. But be wary of leaving your Boxer dog unattended with access to local pets in your neighborhood. A strong fence without escape routes is a good idea. And although Boxers do well in hot weather, white ones might need some sunscreen. Yes, dog sunscreen is a thing. A bored boxer will chew, lick, and dig to excess, so a kennel or crate may be necessary when you need to be away for longer than they like. In the perfect world, a boxer owner would work part-time, or from home, so that they could spend maximum time caring for and bonding with their pet. After a puppy is reserved its is our goal to make the update within minutes with few exceptions outside holidays and unforeseen events. You can be confident the available puppies and their pictures shown are accurate and up to date. Boxer Description The Boxer has a compact and powerful body. Their head is proportionate with the body and has a short muzzle with an underbite. The tail is set high and typically docked. Their coat is short, smooth, and comes in multiple colors including fawn, tan, brindle, mahogany, and black and often with white markings. Boxers also come in a white coat, but some clubs will not register them. Discover more about our Boxer puppies for sale below and see why they are one of the most popular breeds in the U. Disposition and Temperament Boxers are happy, playful, curious, and energetic. So much so that many remain extremely fit and athletic into their old age. They are very intelligent, eager, quick to learn and known to be a good breed for competitive obedience. Boxers bond closely with their family and are loyal and affectionate. In fact, they are known to get along well with children. A properly socialized Boxer will get along with dogs and other household pets, such as cats, but small animals such as rodents or birds may be too tempting. Being energetic and playful, the Boxer can become boisterous and jump on people without proper training and leadership. Boxers need to go on a daily walk and get daily mental and physical exercise. Without it, they can become stressed out. You should start training your Boxer while it is a puppy: Boxers do best with dominant owners who can be firm, consistent and committed. You need to establish yourself as the leader of the pack with this dog breed. Owners who do not establish dominance often find their dogs to be stubborn or demanding which can hamper the owner-pet relationship. Living Conditions As for living arrangements, they can be fine in an apartment if sufficiently exercised even though they are active indoors, but Boxers really do best with an average-sized yard. They are also temperature sensitive, overheating easily and chilling quickly. Boxers have a natural tendency to protect their owners and home, and although visitors who the dog recognizes are not seen as a threat, will protect their owners if they sense danger. Boxers are courageous which makes them great watchdogs and will even restrain intruders. It is important to know Boxer puppies require human leadership and need to be taught not to be boisterous or jump up on people. It requires very little grooming. Brush it with a rubber curry brush once or twice a week to keep it looking good. The Boxer tends to be a clean breed only occasionally needing a bath. Origin The name Boxer is thought to come from the way they use their front paws for just about everything; pawing at its food bowls, toys, and even its owner in a playful way. The Boxer was developed in Germany in the 19th century and its ancestors were two German mastiff-type breeds. They were later bred with the ancestors of the Mastiff and Bulldog. Boxers were first used for dog-fighting, bull-baiting, cart pulling, cattle dogs, rounding up livestock, and to catch and pin wild boar and bison until hunters could arrive. Later they became popular theater and circus dogs. There are two types of Boxers: the German and the American Boxer. German Boxers have bigger heads and are generally more muscular than American Boxers. See store for details on a puppy. The American Canine Association, Inc. The American Canine Registry.

Read more about the pups that are currently up for adoption. Read More… Foster Dogs FBRN is being faced with an increasing number of dogs who are ill, handicapped, or need expensive veterinary care before being placed. Meet our Foster Frenchies and please consider sponsoring one of them to ensure that they receive the care that they need. Read More… Surrender a Dog Life has thrown you a curve ball and you must surrender your French Bulldog… we are here to help! Read More… Volunteer We welcome you to join us in our efforts to rehabilitate and rehome needy French Bulldogs. We have many options for you to choose from, depending on your circumstances, time and resources. Our organization is composed solely of volunteers who nurture and foster these dogs as well as provide education and training. Our goal is to place healthy and happy French Bulldogs into forever homes. Read More… Contact Us Learn about the many ways that you can get in touch with us. He has a Staffie sister, Lettie, who he adores and who has taught him so much with her gentle patience. He has doggie friends at daycamp he sees once a week. He is the best snuggler ever! He used to be a resource guarder, but will now bring you his toys for a treat! He loves our daily walks and meeting people. Thank you FBRN for picking us to be his family- we love him so much! Despite being mostly blind and deaf, Ham is thriving in his golden years, especially with his folks now working from home. Thank you FBRN for our goodest good boy! We are so grateful for every day with him. She had cherry eye surgery in March right before Covid quarantine and the surgery was a success. A gigantic thank you to FBRN for allowing me to adopt this perfect little nugget. All Rights Reserved. A c 3 Non-Profit Organization. Tax ID: .Powered by Geeks4Rent. Share A Story! French Bulldog Rescues In California A small commission may be earned on any purchases made via links on this page. Read our full affiliate disclosure. They are loving and do not require vigorous exercise, which is why they are considered one of the most popular AKC breeds. However, finding a french bulldog rescue in California to adopt from can be more difficult than it looks. At CharityPaws we never advocate buying from a breeder or puppy mill, but instead to adopt from a rescue. Adopting from french bulldog rescues in California can also be a rewarding experience. These rescues look for and save french bulldogs that have been abandoned or neglected by owners who can no longer handle the responsibility. Where to Find French Bulldogs Rescues In California As much as getting a french bulldog from a rescue is a good idea, starting your search might be confusing, especially if you do not know where to find these rescues. We have created a list of some of the best dog rescues in California where you can find some of these furry friends to adopt. Its mission is to save as many homeless French Bulldogs as possible. They search for, save and rehabilitate Frenchies. After rehabilitation, they place their dogs in suitable forever homes. They accept bulldogs from public shelters, high-kill rescues, and owners who can no longer handle the responsibility of owning a French Bulldog and wish to surrender. They have been rescuing and rehoming bulldogs for the past ten years, and in those ten years, they have placed more than 1, French Bulldogs in new forever homes. If you want to help them continue caring for this breed, you can support them through donations. To adopt a dog from this rescue, you need to apply through their website and reply to the acknowledgment email. A volunteer will screen applicants and push the approved applications to another volunteer who is charged with contacting you and scheduling a home visit. During the home visit, all family members and existing pets should be available during this visit. The volunteer also checks how secure your home is. The end goal is to see if your application will be approved. Once your application is approved, the rescue will contact fosters taking care of their dogs to see if there is one that matches your needs. This might take some time. They also host adoption events that allow approved families to meet the bulldogs. Please review our Adoption Process before filling out an application. My name is Pickadilly, and I was rescued from Ensenada, Mexico by a kind human who happened to notice me scavenging around a local landfill in a pack of other strays. I was just a puppy so I didn't run away and approached the human. The others ran away. I was taken to her home given a nice long bath and started what they called 'the quarantine' since I was rescued early July I am now available for adoption but continue to stay with my rescuer in her home shared by her human family which includes small little humans, other doggy friends and some funny acrobatic looking little monsters they call 'cats' whom i actually enjoy very much! Would you be able to help me? Submit an application NOW! A volunteer will review it and text or email you to schedule a min call to talk about the adoption process and if both parties want to move fwd schedule a meet and greet in the clairemont, mission valley or La Mesa area. We can schedule meet and greets ANY day of the week and any time during daylight as long as foster parent is available. Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. Military QuestionnaireSeptember 13, , pm.

We connect families with the best and most reputable Golden retriever breeders in the United States with a blink. Cheappuppiesforsale make it possible for you to adopt your most caring golden retriever puppies for sale with Ease. The Golden Retrievers are wonderful with children, loving and loyal to their owners. They only need one thing from you, lots of love and attention. The Scottish estate owners needed a dog that could retrieve birds either in water or on land because their hunting grounds had many ponds and marshes. As guns were improved, retrievers needed to be able to bring back birds from farther distances. The ideal Golden Retriever was developed by the Baron of Tweedmouth, Dudley Marjoribanks, who crossed a Tweed water spaniel with a yellow-colored retriever dog. The four pups were then used in further breeding with lines including the Irish setter, bloodhound, St. He kept detailed records throughout the later years of the 19th century, showcasing the goal of developing a dog with a soft mouth for retrieving game but that was also strong and active. During the early 20th century, Golden retrievers were introduced to North America as both a hunting dog and a companion. The golden retriever was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in .Presidential golden retrievers include those owned by Gerald R. Ford and Ronald Reagan. The Golden Retriever dog breed is one of the most popular dog breed in USA and there are special reasons for their popularity. Golden Retriever puppies are very affectionate, loyal and loyal to the point of breaking. Golden Retrievers are loved by all, extremely intelligent, well-mannered, adorable yet gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other pets and strangers. They are a wonderful pet for families due to their ability to be flexible, patient and ability to adapt. A golden retriever puppy is extremely easy to train due to the way they are smart and dedicated it is towards its owners. It was originally developed in Scotland as a breed that could retrieve game both on land and in water. Today the Golden Retriever continues to be used as a working dog but is also a popular choice of family pet due to its good nature. The breed has a medium length wavy coat, which comes in a various light colours. The Golden Retriever is extremely loving and loyal, as well as being sociable and playful. These attributes mean the breed is especially good with children. It is quick to learn and always eager to please which means that training is not usually a problem. The Golden Retriever can be affected by some health problems so careful selection of a healthy family line is important. Golden Retriever Cons: The Golden requires lots of regular exercise coupled with frequent human interaction. It also proves a terrible security dog because of its fondness for friend and foe alike. Golden Retriever Pros: The Golden thrives alongside active lifestyles and is slow to have an enemy. Its kind expressions and sweet character make it a favorite family dog. Learn more about the Golden Retriever breed here. Related searches:.

While this may discourage pulling, it may put pressure on joints or change the way they move, which are unsafe. A good harness should allow for free movement of the shoulders and elbows. All the harnesses recommended in this article are designed so that shoulders and elbows are not restricted. The design allows for the neck and girth straps to be adjusted for a nice fit. If your dog does pull while wearing the Urban Trail harness, the pressure will be on their chest and not on the neck. It includes four points of connection for the leash, which is unique. It has the traditional back clip, and a front clip, which can help with minimizing pulling. It also has a clip on the left and right, which can be used if you bike or jog with your dog as it keeps the harness from getting twisted to one side. It comes in six colors and has a reflective strip along the neck for safety and visibility at night. Front Range Harness by Ruffwear This is a really versatile harness — great for everyday walks, but durable for more active outings. It offers four points of adjustment so you can get a proper fit for your Golden Retriever. It also has two points of connection for the leash: one at the back of the shoulders, and one in front of the chest for dogs that pull. This harness has a couple of cool safety features as well. Reflective trim helps keep your dog visible and there is a small loop where you can attach a light. It also comes in a whopping 16 different colors! Weekend Warrior Harness by Hurtta This harness is made for dogs who enjoy going on adventures with their humans. The neck and girth straps are both adjustable so you can ensure it fits your Golden well. The interior is lined with a breathable mesh, to help your pup stay cool. The straps are padded and comfortable but still offer a non-restrictive fit so your Golden can move freely. This is one of the best harnesses for a Golden Retriever who lives for outdoor activities. The design incorporates a handle, which can be a convenient way to help your dog up a steep bank or to pull them back into the canoe if they decide to go for a swim out on the lake. The handle can also be helpful if you need to get control of your Golden quickly. Additionally, it can be a really nice feature for older Golden Retrievers who may need some extra assistance while out and about or even just around the house. It has one connection point for the leash at the back of the shoulders. The 3 in 1 Harness offers 5 points of adjustment for a highly customizable fit. Additionally, it has 2 points of connection for the leash: one at the back of the shoulders, and one at the front of the chest, which can help discourage pulling. A cool feature on the 3 in 1 Harness is a handle on top of the shoulders. It helps you get quick control of your Golden Retriever in the event of sudden onset case of squirrel brain or extreme wiggle butt. You can get the 3 in 1 Harness from Chewy here. This is particularly great for Goldens that are sensitive to things being slipped over their head. With this design, you can attach the harness from under their head. Easy on and off! Additionally, the Balance Harness offers two points of connection for the leash: a front clip at the chest, and a back clip at the shoulders. This can make it useful in training your dog to not pull on the leash. This harness is very lightweight and will not be bulky or hot on your dog. There are several options available for ensuring your dog is safe and under control when walking, including a regular flat buckle collar or a harness. A harness offers some benefits that may be helpful to you and your pup that may be better than just a collar. Squirrel brain is real! When they pull on a collar, that puts a lot of pressure on their neck, which can even cause damage to the internal structure of it. A harness eliminates that risk, as the pressure is lower on the chest. A front-clip harness can discourage pulling. For many dogs, this can really help them learn to walk with a loose leash. Some dogs will still need additional training for leash walking, but the harness can aid in the learning process. A harness can make outdoor adventures easier. Some harnesses come with handles, which can come in handy if you and your pup are adventurous types. If your Golden needs some assistance navigating a rocky stretch on your hike, a harness can make helping your pup out easier and safer than just a collar. If your Golden Retriever enjoys jumping off a dock to swim, the harness gives you a way to help him back ashore. So how do you that? Most golden retriever harness manufacturers have a chart with recommended sizes based on weight, neck size, and chest size also called girth. If you use a string, just measure your dog with it, then use a ruler or tape measure to see how long the string is. And when measuring their chest, measure the widest part of their rib cage, which is just behind their elbows. Rather than simply slapping the harness on them and heading out for a walk, spend a little time getting them used to it using positive reinforcement training. This excellent video by trainer Chirag Patel shows how you can build a positive association with the harness and get your dog to cooperate with putting it on. With some patience and good treats , your dog will be happy to put the harness on while holding still. The harness will also become associated with going outside on walks, so that will build positive feelings about the harness, too. Ultimately, a harness is a tool to help you and your dog enjoy life together with more ease and comfort. So whether your pup likes leisurely neighborhood strolls, or they love long, adventurous hikes, a non-restrictive harness can be a great option for your Golden Retriever. Have any questions about which harness to get for your Golden? Let me know down in the comments! Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Related articles:. January 25, The Best Dog Harnesses for Golden Retrievers in If we had to make a list of dogs that come to mind when we think of iconic family dogs, golden retrievers would definitely be among the top. This classic gentle breed with its blonde fur and triangular flopped ears is one of the most popular in America. They are known to be loyal, trustworthy, easy to train, and eager to please. Combine this with the fact that they are known to retain their puppy-like qualities well into adulthood, they make amazing companions for all types. Purposefully Designed Because golden retrievers make such wonderful family pets, it might be surprising to find out that the breed was originally carefully crafted to ideal hunting gundogs. He wanted a dog who could withstand the rugged and rainy Scottish Highlands and accompany him on hunting trips around his estate. The lines of goldens grew consistent and refined, and in they first made their grand appearance at a British dog show. Through Canada, the Golden made its way into America and people fell in love. Hunters loved how useful the dogs were, and families loved that they were sweet and sensible. In the s, the breed made the big time. President Ford had a beautiful golden retriever named Liberty, and more and more people wanted one. The rest is history! While we love happy, excited dogs, a fur baby with a lot of energy and nowhere to put it can turn destructive jumping, chewing, and so on. One great way to help your pup focus and burn some of that energy is through regular walks! It lets your fur baby smell all of the fun things outside, creates great bonding time, and gets in some steps for you, too! And coming in between 55 to 75 pounds, they could put a good amount of force into a sudden pull or run. Joyride Harness is the choice for pet parents of excitable dogs because of the superior control it offers. The durable vest is fitted with a super-secure leash attachment point on the top for times when your fur baby is just a little too overzealous. Additionally there is a side ring for times when pulling is an issue. Attaching your leash at this ring point causes your pup to spin to face you should they try to suddenly forge ahead. With breathable fabric that allows for full range of motion without painful rubbing, Joyride Harness is secure, safe, and comfortable. Here are just a few of what the Golden lovers had to say! Andrew A. It is so simple to put on our dog Snowflake and adjusting the harness is so easy. She is quite the puller, and although we have not put in serious training time with the side rings, from the few instances that I did use them she pulled herself right in a circle. This is exactly as advertised. Snowflake is a very willful Golden Retriever and we have tried countless harnesses that never lived up to expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend this harness to any dog owner regardless of breed or attitude. The item shipped out within a day and was at our front door within three days from the order date. If you are looking for a dazzlingly simple harness that is well built and looks fancy on your pet then look no further. We have two golden retrievers that weigh between pounds and they let us put this one on them easily - no struggle at all. Harness is sturdy and I really like the three rings option. Also, seems very comfy for our fellas. Customer service was great - email notifications of order, shipment and delivery. Our daughters jog with him using it, which makes running much easier. Walking in town and on side walks has never been easier! He tugs and pulls me down at times. This Joyride harness is the best, least stressful harness we have gotten. Not expensive which is helpful since we have bought so many other brands. Great, great product! Both of them are slight pullers when taking walks, but with these harnesses they are so much more pleasant to walk! No more pulling! I also love how easy they are to get off and on them! I love these harnesses! And with a great dog harness you can have the best experience possible with this iconic member of the family! While you can search by breed, it is always recommended to weigh and measure your dog to find their exact size. To take a look at our sizing chart, go here! If you have any questions about our dog harnesses, how to put them on, or anything else, you can reach our team through the contact form on our website. To take a look at more reviews and everything our customers have to say check out this page! For more doggie photos and pup-related fun, follow us on Instagram at joyrideharness. And for a more detailed blog post about finding the best size dog harness for your pup, check out this blog post! Image credits. Shop now at Amazon What to Consider When Choosing a Harness With so many different types of harnesses, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your particular golden retriever. Here are some questions to ask yourself. What will I use this harness for? A simple, lightweight, durable harness is probably enough. A lifting harness can make your life much easier, particularly with a large dog like a golden retriever. Is my golden retriever a leash puller? Are they escape artists? If your dog is a leash puller, you need a harness with an attachment point on the chest. Soft, padded harnesses may be comfortable, but they can twist around when your dog pulls, making them less effective. If your dog is an escape artist, you may need a harness with an additional strap or one that can be adjusted for a closer fit. Is overheating a concern? If you live in a cold-weather climate or have a dog with short fur, the thought of overheating may not come into the picture. What is my budget? Of course, you can pick a cheap one if you need to, but it may not last very long. Be sure to balance price against durability, particularly if your dog is a leash puller or you need the harness for lifting. However, you may need a human assistant if you have a particularly wiggly dog. This will be a bit lower than wear a collar would sit. Make sure the tape measure is snug but not tight when taking your measurements. Most companies will include a sizing chart telling you how to match measurements to sizes. The actual harness will typically be an inch or two larger than the measurement to allow some slack. Frequently Asked Questions Do I need a harness just for going on walks? Golden retrievers in particular are so friendly that they may lunge after another dog to say hello, and this puts strain on their throat. What is a no-pull harness? Simply putting the leash attachment point on the back of the harness can actually allow the dog to pull harder, although it does take the pressure off their throats. In order to actually discourage pulling, the harness needs to have some mechanism that keeps the dog from lunging forward. Can a walking harness double as a seatbelt harness for the car? Some walking harnesses can. If a particular harness is safe to be used with a seatbelt, the packaging or marketing materials will usually state this. Conclusion You have plenty of choices when it comes to choosing a harness for your golden retriever. Make sure you choose one appropriate to your lifestyle, the local climate, and your budget. A poorly fitted harness can cause chafing and discomfort, so make sure you adjust it properly. Your dog should get many years of use out of a good, well-made harness. It is an adjustable harness that comes with two metal attachments for leashes, with one being on the front and the other at the back. The front attachment clip is meant for dogs who pull. If the dog starts pulling when the leash is attached to the front clip, they will be turned around instead of going forward. After a while, this will get frustrating, and they will learn that it is best not to pull. This makes it a great tool for teaching your feisty one how to be obedient. Once they have learned not to pull, you can switch to the back attachment clip. This harness will not give you any problems when it comes to putting it on or taking it off. The straps are also adjustable to allow you to find the size that fits snugly on the animal. This ensures that you do not have to worry about the Golden escaping the harness. This harness also comes with reflective strips to ensure that your dog is visible and therefore, safe when walking at night. The only downside to this harness is that the straps loosen after extended periods of intense activity. Nonetheless, the Rabbitgoo dog harness more than makes up for that drawback in quality and functionality, which is why we have it as our top pick. Key Features Fully padded straps Ergonomic design No sensitive area, from the underarm to the throat, will be at risk when your dog has this harness on. Even during intense exercises, they will stay comfortable. Since golden retrievers have sensitive skin, look for a harness that can be adjusted across the chest, belly, and back to prevent chafing and skin irritation. Reflective Straps: Reflective material will keep your goldie visible even in low light conditions, thus increasing safety during walks. Hence, strong metal buckles are essential for keeping your dog safe and secure during walks. No-Pull Design: Is a necessity if your golden retriever likes to pull during walks. A no-pull harness comes with a front ring that offers better control and can help you in training your dog how to heal. Ultimately, whichever you choose, it will teach your dog to stop pulling and ensure that you have some fun walking instead of running after your goldie. To sum up, golden retrievers are highly energetic and playful dogs who need a lot of exercise to stay out of trouble and in great shape. Taking your pooch on long walks is always a great idea, but you will need the best harness for a golden retriever if you want to have fun and be safe. You May Also Like.

There are some important points to remember here Marshmellow the white pug The problem with the popularity and desire for these white pugs is largely due to a little white pup called Marshmellow. He is something of an internet sensation with social media accounts and YouTube videos. Naturally, there are many people that now want their own little Marshmellow running around at home. Marshmellow the white pug — Image Source The trouble is that this is one dog, that behaves in his own unique way. Also, this puppy charms may wear off. This all reinforces the question over the worth of a white pug. This just adds further controversy to an already controversial issue The issue of pug colors is already very heated in the pug breeding world. There are many that maintain the opinion that the only true, pure bred pug colors are fawn, black and apricot. They insist that all others are the result of mixed breeding, such as the french bulldog to create a brindle pug and other small breeds, like chihuahuas in the other colors. There are some that are adamant about all of this, despite the instance of breeders that they have had mixed litters from pure pugs for ages. Some see fawn, smutty silvers, apricot and black and white pugs. When we bring whites and silvers into the debate, it all gets much worse. This is because of the breeding required to get such a pale dog, the best way to do so is with two silver pugs, a color which is also said to be completely impossible. Yet, there are white pug puppies like Marshmellow running around. There are also going to be concerns about any white pugs for sale due to the confusion of albinism and a naturally occurring white coat Albinism occurs when we have an animal with a lack of melanin that is so strong, they have virtually no pigmentation at all. This is characterized by pale skin, white fur and pink eyes. This lack of pigment can be a major issue when animals are out in the sun as the lack of melanin can lead to skin damage. Are they a white dog with pug genes, but other toy breeds in the mix to get this pale color? Or are they an albino pug? Finding the right white pug breeders The best thing to do with anyone with white pug puppies for sale is to go and see the animals and the parents. This will provide the perfect chance to see exactly where these dogs came from, the reason for the coat color and to learn about any potential health risks. Another way to get an idea of which animal they are selling is to look at the price. Those with a pure white pug puppy for sale with good breeding will charge quite a lot, as this is both a rarity and something of designer dog right now. Those with albinos may go down the cheaper route as they are trying to get rid of their runts and bad stock. Other issues with pigmentation and breeding It is easy for most new owners to tell the difference between white and albino on viewing the animal because of the quality of the coat and the color of the eyes. On that note, be aware of those breeders that are promising a white pug with blue eyes. While it is possible to find this, on very rare occasions, you have to consider the breeding standard and potential inbreeding that goes into deliberately creating these dogs. A genetic abnormality in the litter can be celebrated if there are no other apparent white pug health problems in play. Yet, overbreeding is a problem in this small dog, which is already overbred enough to have those breathing and airway issues, as well as potential eye problems. Remember that a dog as cute as Marshmellow is still going to pant, snort and grunt his way around the park. Further Reading: A Guide To Choosing The Best Frisbee For Dogs Top 15 There are some important points to remember here First of all, despite the close-minded instance from breeders and showers that a white pug is not a real pug, there is no doubt that this color type can exist. It just happens to occur quite rarely. A white pug is still a pug. It will look like a pug, act like a pug and have all the same issues as a pug. Ask yourself why you want a white one over a fawn or black one. Does color really matter here? The only time that color makes a difference is in registration and showing. If you want a pug, just find a pug in need of a good home. If you really want a white one, be careful where you get one to make sure they are healthy, happy and precisely what they should be. Everyone wanted one and I will not lie, I too considered getting one of these adorable little buddies. So what is it about them that makes them so unique? A white pug can obtain this coloring in one of three main ways. The first is leucism, where the melanin production is lower than normal. The second is albinism, where there is no melanin produced at all. Finally, it could be due to mixed breeding with breeds that have white coloring genes, in which case it is technically not a pure pug. In the sections below, we shall take a look at the difference between the two main causes of white coloring in pugs which are albinism and leucism. That way if you decide to get one you know exactly what to expect. However, they are fundamentally different in terms of everything from the cause to the manifestation. Albinism In Pugs Albinism in pugs is a result of genetic mutation in the genes responsible for producing melanin. The result is an albino pug with an absolute lack of melanin. This covers everything from the fur and eyes to blood vessels. With albinism, the fur on the pug will be completely white in color but maintains the other coat features of the parent. Other surfaces like the paw pads, nose, and rim around the eyes take on more of a pale pink hue. Finally, the lack of pigmentation results in blue or even translucent eyes. This trait is recessive in nature. This means that both parents need to either be albinos or carriers of the gene for it to manifest in the pug. For this reason, albino pugs are incredibly rare. Leucism In Pugs A leucistic pug on the other hand gets its white coloring from a different genetic mutation affecting pigmentation. This affects melanin formation at a DNA level. Unlike albinism which causes total lack of pigmentation, a leucistic pug will have melanin on their irises, paw pads, noses, and even blood vessels. They will appear a darker shade of blue or even brown for the eyes and dark pink for the rest of the surfaces. However, the fur, much like in albinism, is completely lacking in melanin and results in white coloring all over the body from the root to the shaft. Are White Pugs Healthy? Image from Instagram: paula. If it is as a result of leucism, then the pug will only have the regular health issues that other pugs suffer. However, if the white fur is due to albinism, there are some issues associated with the total lack of melanin. Let us take a closer look at all of these. It is unfortunately incurable with most affected doggies having to be put down. Stenotic Nares This is a condition characterized by blockage of nasal airways. It is a result of the brachycephalic facial structure that the dog has and often results in major difficulties breathing. Obesity Pugs have a really big appetite. They are also extremely lazy. This is not a good combination and if you do not watch what you feed the doggie, they may end up being obese. Allergies Pugs are prone to a number of allergies. These include allergic dermatitis from things like dust mites, pollen, and even grass. They also often suffer from food allergies ranging from gluten intolerance to meat allergies. It is, therefore, best to minimize outdoor time with albino pugs. Skin Cancer White dogs are generally at a greater risk of developing skin cancer but none are as vulnerable as those with albinism. As with sunburns, one of the best ways to protect your white pug is by minimizing their exposure by any means necessary. Pugs in general need a lot of tender loving care. However, with their additional special needs it is safe to say that white pugs need a little extra attention and effort. Here are 4 key ways you could give your pretty pooch a happy home and a chance to live out their life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Minimize Direct Sun Exposure As earlier stated, white pugs are prone to a lot of sun-related issues from skin cancer to photophobia. Part of raising one of these beauties is keeping them out of the sun as much as possible. And if you must go out in them, invest in doggy clothes that offer some degree of protection through coverage. Invest In Regular Pet Visits A lot of the terminal health issues faced by white pugs may be dealt with better if they are caught early. Therefore, find and stick to a vet visit schedule so you do not find out something important when it is too late. Feed The Doggy The Right Food White pugs are very likely to become overweight so what and how much you feed them is very important. For the former, we recommend the Pet Plate fresh food subscription service. Find Fun, But Simple Exercises White pugs not only do not like to exercise but are also put at risk whenever they go out. It is therefore up to you to find fun ways to keep them physically and mentally stimulated for their own sake. Do White Pugs Shed? Grooming Tips for Leucistic Vs Albino Pugs There is a common misconception about white pugs that paints them as heavier shedders than regular pugs. This is simply not the case. What happens is that their fur, being light-colored and medium length, is easier to spot on surfaces. There is also no difference between shedding patterns for leucistic and albino pugs as long as the coat is healthy. However, there is no denying the fact that white pugs, like any other pug, do shed. You will therefore have to go out of your way to minimize this. In this case, brushing is the most important grooming habit. This helps by deshedding the already loose fur and therefore prevents it from falling off all over your home. Another crucial grooming practice when raising a white pug is regular washing. Due to their white fur, they tend to show dirt and grime very easily. However, this does not mean you wash them too often as their skin and fur need the natural oils on them for protection. It is, therefore, best to simply go with a one to two monthly washing schedule. In the meantime, you could use doggy wipes to get rid of any stains or messes on their fur. Temperament Of White Pugs Image from Instagram: matildaemilyheidi3pugs There are subtle differences between the temperament of a regular pug and a white one but they are very similar for the most part. For some perspective, here are the most important personality traits you may encounter. Strong-Willed This is just a really nice way of saying that white pugs are stubborn. If they are not trained early, they have very little inclination towards obedience and just love getting into mischief. Clingy White pugs have what is affectionately referred to as Velcro personalities. They will identify a member of the family and form what can only be described as an obsessive bond. Eager To Please This is particularly the case when they are younger and it definitely makes life a lot easier when it comes to training. You just need an effective way to show your approval. Clever White pugs are also very smart dogs. They are also very intuitively caring which makes them ideal for families with children. Playful These doggies are predominantly calm and just like to either sleep or sit back and watch the world go by. However, they have a silly and playful side that is very fun to watch. Lazy White pugs love nothing more than sleeping and relaxing in general. They only ever get bursts of energy for exercise when they are in their playful moods. Even Tempered They are very docile and hardly ever cause trouble whether it is with another dog, a child, or even strangers in your home. If your pug is white due to albinism, you also have to factor in special care needs and additional health bills that come with the mutation. How Much Are Albino Pugs? Typically, it depends on where you get the pug. If you go for shelter adoptions, you may not have to pay as much. The problem is that this is a game of chance and you might not get an albino pug very easily. Do Pugs Have Blue Eyes? A pug can have blue eyes as a result of low levels of melanin. This makes them more prone to issues like photophobia due to inadequate protection of inner eye structures from UV rays from the sun. So what do you need to know about the white breed and how does it differ from the albino version? The White Pug is a Pug, however, it is not a traditional standard color. These dogs get their color from selective breeding, which has been known to cause controversy. But whether these cute pups are a result of genetic mutation from mixed breeding, they are still adorable. What Is A White Pug? There is no gene for chocolate, blue, brindle or white color in the Pug breed. Any Pug that displays any of these non-standard colors is a sign that it is a mix of another dog breed, primarily the French Bulldog or a Boston Terrier. Some people believe that the white Pug was bred from a paler and paler fawn Pugs, which gives off the snowy color. Read this article to find out what the standard colors of the Pug are. These dogs are NOT purebred and while they are cute, they can present their own unique health issues. What Makes Them So Special? Crossbreeds, Hybrids or designer dogs as they are referred to have become extremely popular because they are cute and not many people have them. There are dogs that are bred because they are fashionable, adorable and would finish off a set of different colors. The white Pug is an example of the latter. Breeders continue to crossbreed because there will always be buyers. Marshmallow the white pug — Image Source He became an Internet sensation with his own social media accounts and YouTube channel. All this attention made people wanting their own little Marshmallow of their own. Breeders tend to charge more for designer dogs. Your dog can inherit the genetic problems of the other dog, which can lead to more health problems later on down the road. A Look At An All White Pug After doing my due diligence and reading up on this breed, you can expect them to act and behave like the standard variations. Males tend to be more laid back and easy going than females Of course, there are exceptions to the generalizations above. Every dog has its own unique personality. Temperament This breed is strong-willed and can have a stubborn streak. They are not aggressive and are eager to please their owners. They can easily be trained with a lot of patience, dedication and the use of treats for motivation. This breed is suitable for families with children, cats or other dogs. Pugs crave the attention of their owners and are known as velcro dogs. This is often an easy-going dog that tends to be lazy if you let them. Overall, their main goal in life is to please their owners and get lots of belly rubs. It is a low energy breed that will take effort on your part to ensure they get enough exercise. They love to eat and are prone to being overweight. With some training and dedication, you can teach proper obedience. They are vocal dogs which include snorting, barking, snoring, and other noises. Some of these noises are due to them being a part of the brachycephalic dog breeds. Meaning they have a relatively broad and short skull. Personality Traits This is an intelligent and playful breed, but also known for their affection. If left alone for long periods of time, they can be mischievous. They love people, kids, babies, cats, and other pets, which makes them the perfect family breed. They have tons of unique personalities that make them the perfect dog, but the biggest two are their love for food and sleep. Of course, there are no real health or behavioral benefit to trying to create white Pug pups. Bad experiences come about from over breeding and increasingly poor breeding standards to meet the high consumer demand. Yup, there is a Pug that looks white but is actually albino and there is a difference in the breed. The albino Pug has been mistaken for a white and silver fawn Pug. True albino Pugs will have pink noses and pink skin around their eyes, otherwise, they are just white coated. Take a look at the image below to see what one looks like. What Is Albinism? Albinism presents as pink irises in rodents and rabbits, which make it easy to detect. Stephanie Pumphrey. Unfortunately, it is impossible to tell if a dog is a true albino without running some genetic testing. What Causes Albinism? This condition is caused by a lack of melanin in the body of an organism. It is a rare congenital disorder that is triggered by the activation of recessive genes. This condition is manifested when an organism lacks the functional melanin-producing cells in the body. What Is Melanin? It is the milieu of pigments that give color to the iris, skin, and organisms hair. When Pugs are affected by this disorder, they usually lack pigments in their skin, irises, and skin. This condition makes the albino Pug appear completely white with the pinkish nose and pink color around the eyes. By now, you know that the Pug is prone to certain health conditions. When you have an albino Pug that is lacking melanin, they are susceptible to more issues. Sensitive to Light Since they lack pigmentation in their eyes, they will be more sensitive to light. I highly recommend the Puppia RiteFit Harness , because of the adjustable straps that make it so comfortable for your Pug. This makes them susceptible to sunburns, skin cancers including melanoma, and other UV generated skin cancers. Their skin is prone to fungal infections, including ringworm also known as dermatophytes. If your dog has this symptom, it is contagious and can be passed on to humans. These dogs are also prone to dandruff which is caused by several different types of fungal manifestations. They require different care guidelines than standard Pug. The best thing you can do is keep them out of direct sunlight. You may even consider protecting their coat with sunscreen or put on some dog clothes to give them extra protection. If you do get one make sure that you do your due diligence. This breed will still shed and has the same double layer coat as the standard variation. These dog brushes will help you control the shedding problem. Do White Pugs Exist? These dogs are known as designer dogs and while they are rare, they do exist. What are All white Pugs? The white Pug exists as a result of crossbreeding. They get their non-traditional color as a result of either genetic mutation or crossbreeding, making them one of the rarest Pugs to exist. There are three different variations of white Pugs: Pugs with Albinism Albinism is a genetic mutation that alters DNA to cause a lack of melanin production. This causes the Pug to have a white coat, lighter eyes and a pink mask. Albinism often causes multiple other health problems, such as light sensitivity and deafness. This Pug has the same black features that standard Pugs whilst the coat is inherently light in appearance. A brief look at White Pugs 1. History of White Pugs While Pugs are one of the oldest canine breeds, white Pugs have been traced back to as early as the 18th century when they were popularized as royalty lap dogs. In recent years the white Pug breed has skyrocketed to stardom by modern celebrities often getting them. Marshmallow the White Pug, the puppy internet sensation, proves to be the adorable catalyst behind the white Pug craze. The Appearance of White Pugs White Pugs appear to be similar in features as other Pugs in terms of their wrinkly appearance and folds all over. Although they are white all over, they hold the same features as other Pugs with their dark lips and nose and black-rimmed eyes. Therefore it is crucial to understand the differences for you to make the right choice. While both Pugs appear to be similar at first glance, a more detailed look allows you to differentiate clearly. These differences are found in the coat itself alongside the difference in their features that An albino Pug suffers from Albinism, making it appear somewhat translucent in appearance than a white Pug. What is Albinism? This lack of pigmentation can be seen in the skin, hair, eyes and even their blood vessels. An albino Pug can only exist if both of its parents carried this gene. Albino Pugs and Pugs with Leucism are often confused with each other. What is Leucism? Leucism is similar to Albinism as both conditions alter the melanin levels within the DNA. However, Leucism causes the Pug to have hair with no pigmentation within the fur and slight levels of pigment in other features such as the lips, nose and eyes. Since Leucism is very rare, it is often categorized by many as Albinism due to the lack of pigmentation. The point of difference is that while Albinism creates health issues within the Pug, there are no health issues associated with Leucism. While you can physically differentiate based on the difference in the color of features, it often leads to the Pug being misdiagnosed. An albino Pug will have light pink features such as lips, noses, paws, ears and faintly pink-tinted skin. However, unlike most Albino animals, their eyes are light blue rather than pink. Despite the difference in pigmentation levels, Albino Pugs have the same appearance as any other Pug. They have the same wrinkly and folded skin with a curled up tail similar to that of a pig. Yet, Albino Pugs suffer from additional health issues that have been explained below: Skin Cancer Lack of melanin in the skin removes the natural UV barrier making the Pug more prone to skin cancer. Even the slightest exposure to sun rays can cause harm to their skin; hence Albino Pugs are advised to be protected from the sun at all costs. Light Sensitivity Since Albinism causes a lack of pigment in the eye as well, it adversely affects the nerves too. By understanding these differences, you will be able to make better decisions for yourself, so always be sure to distinguish between the different breeds of Pugs carefully. More about White Pugs 1. Behavior and Personality of White Pugs While Pugs are one of the friendliest dogs, all different types of Pugs have their unique quirks and personalities. White Pugs are absolutely loyal and extremely affectionate with male Pugs being more laid back and female Pugs having a more hyper presence. Temperament White Pugs are very calm and will do anything to gain your love and affection. But beware! These loving pups can often be stubborn, so it will take a lot of patience on your end while training them. Our advice would be to use treats as motivation as these Pugs are never able to resist them. White Pugs will crave your attention, so be ready for them following you around the house at any given moment. Their trusting nature allows them to build quick affectionate bonds with their owners very quickly. All they will ever need is your attention and loads of belly rubs! Behavior While white Pugs are known for being the calm breed, their calmness can often result in laziness. If they could, they would sleep all day long. So it will be your duty to ensure they get their daily dose of exercise in. Despite their laziness, they often get random bursts of playful energy and will definitely enchant you with their short-lived hyperactive acts. You will need to put in effort and dedication to train them to be more obedient. Personality Traits This is a friendly and observant breed. White Pugs are very affectionate and get along with almost anyone. From children and family to cats or any other animal, white Pugs are always warm and welcoming. White Pugs want to be included in your life as much as they can. This may mean wanting to cuddle up next you while you sleep or following you wherever you go. These Pugs are unique and absolutely adorable. Their personality is full of multiple quirks, but their love for you and food will always remain at the top. Health and Nutrition of White Pugs All breeds of Pugs require different care and attention when it comes to their health. Health The brachycephalic nature of Pugs makes them susceptible to a variety of diseases. You can opt for reputable dog food brands that are preservative free and packed with essential nutrients. When choosing between dry kibble and wet canned food, kibble takes the cake by proving to be better for the teeth. However, we would always recommend that you consult a vet to find the perfect fit for your special white Pug. Here we have listed the common health issues that you might have to face with your white Pug. Breathing Problems Pugs are brachycephalic breeds of dogs which means that they have extremely short snouts in comparison to other canines. This can make them extremely prone to breathing attacks and other respiratory problems. They will often be making a lot of noise such as wheezing, snoring, snorting and so on. This is all linked to their shortened breathing tract. Skin Conditions Skin related problems are frequent amongst Pugs as their soft folded and wrinkly skin allows growth for bacteria and fungi if not cleaned properly. This makes it extremely important for you to frequently clean up your Pugs fold. Some common skin conditions Pugs suffer from include ringworm, various allergies and in rare cases, demodicosis. Some common eye problems include cherry eye, cataracts and corneal ulcers. Tail Problems The iconic curled tail of Pugs is found to be the reason behind a lot of Pug health issues. You should keep an eye out if you notice symptoms of a screw tail or limp tail. These two conditions can be excruciating for your Pug and need immediate care and attention at the first symptom. Pug Dog Encephalitis This condition occurs when brain tissues are inflamed. This is most common in adolescent Pugs and is caused mainly due to genetics. This neurological problem may cause your Pug to suffer from seizures and epileptic attacks. Stomach Problems Pugs are susceptible to multiple digestive problems that can be triggered by the wrong type of food consumption. This may result in food allergies, salmonella, bacteria, hypersensitivity and so on. They also suffer from bloating and swelling. Sometimes Pugs may suffer from intussusception which is the large and small intestines sliding into each other. Due to their brachycephalic nature they are prone to spinal problems such as hemivertebrae or herniated discs. Almost all Pugs are prone to spinal injuries and conditions due to their screw tail. Orthopedic Problems All Pugs have shorter bones which makes them easier to bend and twist. This often results in orthopedic problems as the bones of your Pug might get dislocated often and may suffer from bone injuries more. The chondrodystrophic nature of Pugs makes them prone to orthopedic conditions such as luxating patellas, and intervertebral disk diseases. Thus when you get a Pug, regular vet appointments are essential to make sure your Pug is living its healthiest and happiest life. Allow your Pug to take a break during walking or divide the exercise period into 2 sessions throughout the day. This is to ensure avoiding breath and joint issues. White Pugs are an intelligent breed so they are relatively easier to train. To ensure that your Pug is receiving proper grooming the following steps should be taken. Bathe your Pug every 3 to 4 weeks. Clean their ear flaps several times over the while clean the ear canals carefully every 6 weeks. Take care of their paws every 2 weeks. Trim the nails of your Pug every 6 weeks. Be sure to take care of their noses and clean them every 2 to 3 weeks. How much does it cost to buy a white Pug puppy? Are there any famous white Pugs? He is now an internet sensation with his very own YouTube channel and social media accounts with thousands of followers! Everyone is obsessed with getting white Pugs, and we can see why! From their unique lineage to their loveable attributes, white Pugs are definitely worth the hype. Factoring in their characteristics and rich history, they will be the perfect fit for any family, including yours. Considered one of the oldest dog breeds, Pugs trace their origins back to China BC, when they were the sweethearts of Chinese royalty. Ancient records suggest that around BC, writings by Confucius referenced Pug-like dogs with flat faces and short muzzles, along with the Shih-Tzu and Pekingese. At the time, no one else but royalty could own a Pug, but soldiers and monks were allowed to keep one under strict observation. Over time, the Chinese sold Pugs to Russians and the Japanese until the 16th century, when Dutch traders brought them to the rest of Europe. The breed became the favorite pup of European royal families, and in , it was exhibited for the first time in England. In when the studbook began its first volume, there were 66 Pugs, and in the 19th century, Queen Victoria developed a love for the dog. How the White Pug Gained Popularity Controversially, unethical breeders who capitalize on rare albino breeding have popularized the uncommon White Pug by advertising their dogs as purebred. They exploit genetic mutations like albinism and leucism or breed white-coated gene pools so tightly that congenital disorders become commonplace for these dogs. However, the Pug has been a popular dog as a breed, starting in China, Japan, Russia, and Europe before arriving in America. The breed also became a mascot for a society of freemasons named the Order of the Pug due to its steadfast loyalty and devotion. Formal Recognition of White Pug The American Kennel Club formally recognized Pugs in , but only two colors, black and fawn, made the breed standards. Pink Pigmentation Is the Telling Difference Between Albino and White-Coated Pugs One way to determine if a Pug is white due to albinism is to check for its around-the-eye pigmentation, which is pink instead of black. A White Pug will not have this coloration, but the eye color of an Albino Pug is often blue and not pink. All this attention made the breed much sought after, with this mascot becoming an internet sensation with his own YouTube and social media accounts. Always buy the breed from reputable kennels, as unscrupulous puppy mills will pass off Albino Pugs as purebred, white-coated ones. Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs are the common breeds chosen for this crossbreeding. However, these hybrids often lack the polite disposition and unique flat-faced look of the breed, but that also helps mitigate health problems. Image Credit: alberto clemares exposito, Shutterstock Thanks to a typically easygoing, cheerful, and affectionate nature , all Pugs make great pets , and so do white-coated ones. They adapt well to living in small spaces like apartments and only need grooming at least once a week due to their easy-to-maintain coats. Early training and socialization are important so that the breed is comfortable around other people or pets without reactions of aggressiveness or fear. But you should note that this breed, especially if your White Pug results from albinism or leucism, is susceptible to various health conditions. These include breathing difficulties, a common challenge with brachycephalic or flat-faced dogs. That can make your White Pug uncomfortable in hot weather, while their folded skin is vulnerable to allergic dermatitis. Conclusion The White Pug exists due to either melanin deficiency or crossbreeding, making this dog the rarest form of the breed. And although their coat color falls outside most kennel club breed standards, White Pugs exist due to selective breeding, leucism, or albinism. These dogs come from a unique lineage and have adorable personality quirks that endear them to all manner of owners from different walks of life.

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

Cotton Goose We purchased Goose from the Dec 25th litter and you chose to put his picture on the website! We just wanted to send you a quick note saying that we are still getting compliments on a daily basis and love the dog that he has become. We just took our engagement photos so I thought I would send one along to you to see An updated pic of Goose! Have a great summer! She has grown to be the most beautiful and smart dog I've met. Her temperament has been calm since day one! Such a fast learner, loves to swim and retrieve, and is full of personality. I couldn't be happier with her. Compliments everywhere we go, thank you again. .Cotton Cotton Cotton We bought Cotton on March 23rd and it's been sooo much fun since he became our part of family. He is 10 months old now. He is sooo full of energy all the time and he always get excited when I arrive at home after work. He loves water, its so much fun seeing him swimming. Everyone around our neighborhood loves him and he is the most pretty dog ever.Jagger Bleu Cotton Hi there! We sure love our girl who turns 1 Dec 21st! You did a great job, she is so CALM! He is so smart!! He is an AKC S. White Lab Puppy!! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Recommended by D Magazine.We have bred and raised rare Labrador Retrievers for 20 years. We consider ourselves boutique breeders; we usually have one litter at a time, and rarely two. Our mature dogs are family members, each and every one. They are raised on our 20 acre Arabian horse ranch, which is fenced in its entirety for the safety of our animals. We have ponds to swim in, birds to chase, and shade trees to relax under on those hot Texas Days. All our puppies are birthed in our home. As each baby is born, Russ and I fuss over each arrival with all the anticipated joy of grandparents. To put it very simply, we adore our dogs. I love the diversity of genetic possibilities. While it is true that we are famous for the rare color of our Labradors-there is so much more that goes into it. Everyone wants a beautiful stunning puppy that stops traffic. We go even further. We try to minimize negative behavior traits, for example, our line of pups and mature dogs are quieter and will rarely excessively bark. We have all experienced or witnessed a neurotic or aggressive dog. This is the type of animal we all wish to avoid. Our Labradors are known for their loyalty, intelligence and charisma-as well as their stunning great looks. This is an easy statement to say, but we can brag for hours on the accomplishments of our labradors. These are all great accomplishments, but the best compliment we ever receive are our heartfelt letters, Christmas Cards and emails from our families that just have to let us know how their dog is unique and truly the best dog ever. We smile because we know, they are our treasures and they are our family members too. We completely understand. My passion for as long as I can remember has been animals. In addition to our rare Labradors, we also isolate unusual genetic qualities of our Arabian Horses. These two passions grew together over time. Horses are also exotic animals that just capture our imaginations and attentions. I have spent 20 years breeding rare Arabian Horses. It is because of the decades spent studying our animals that I see more than most when they look at the animal. I actually see what type of eye is most engaging, the shape of the eye, the type of expression that speaks to us. I can go on and on, but I believe you see what I mean. Legacy-Labs was not created as a business venture. It was created out of a love for the animal. Some people might say that our pups are too pricey but we believe that through decades of breeding, we offer one of the best dogs available on the market. We feel they are priceless. The demand for our puppies has grown substantially over the years yet we refuse to mass produce. It takes all our care and attention to keep all their needs fulfilled. I feel committed to each and every puppy, each and every family. We are committed to the physical, emotional and mental strength of each dog and pup at our facility. This is our commitment to you, as well as our pups. At this time we have three males that are our main sires at Legacy-Labs. Our males do not stand at stud to the public at this time. Please remember we support Limited Registration. Legacy Alamo We support limited registration. Located 20 miles from Downtown Dallas on I.We appreciate your interest and invite your inquiries. For driving directions go to the contact us page. We invite you to browse the happy families we have helped create on our reviews page. We whelp and raise all our puppies in our master bathroom, kitchen and outside at times during the day and back in the bathroom at night from weeks. These puppies are not kept outside for any extended period or overnight, period. They are constantly supervised while under our care. Our labs range in color from snow white to very-light cream. They love to play fetch, stay by your side, and they can be trained to hunt. We breed both the English and American type of Labradors and our litters are a combination of the two. Our primary concerns in order of importance are: Health, Temperament, Socialization, and then Coat Color. We Live Stream the puppies from the birthing process through 7 weeks of age! Click here for our videos Your puppy comes with limited registration. Full registration is possible for established breeders and show prospects. We are very careful to insure our puppies go to fantastic homes, while insuring that there is no possibility of adding one single dog to the unwanted dog population. We interact with our puppies constantly. We introduce them to Bio Sensor and Early Neurological Stimulation at 3 days and continue until they are 15 days old. As they get older, 4 weeks we allow them in the kitchen, family area, and in the back yard. They are well socialized with adults human as well as other adult dogs in a warm and loving atmosphere. We can hold them in our arms, on their backs and cradle them like a baby. We pride ourselves on producing sound, soft, teddy bear-like puppies that grow into wonderful house pets, service and therapy dogs. We don't have a kennel. Labradors are very affectionate and social creatures. BUT, if kept isolated, they can develop habits such as digging, chewing, barking, and generally destroying anything in sight. We socialize and handle our puppies several times throughout the day and exposed to all the normal and sometimes, not-so-normal goings-on of family life. We try to expose them to as many different sounds as possible so that when they come to your home, some of these sounds are familiar. We also begin using a crate as a group and individually as soon as age appropriate. When it is time to go to their new homes, our puppies are very close to being potty-trained, but are in no way house-broken, they will let you know when they need to go outside, but they can't hold it for too long. We regularly get reports of successful potty-training as well as "sit", "shake", and "lay-down" at eight to nine weeks! We offer a "head start" for our puppies in a loving environment. We grow very fond of our puppies and it's very hard to see them leave, but we know that we have found what we think will be the ideal forever home for our pups. We love getting pictures and updates of our puppies. And we encourage all puppy owners to keep communications open and send lots of pictures as they grow. All our puppies are up to date on shots and worming. They will be micro-chipped, preregistered with the American Kennel Club, and come with a written contract that they are clear of inherited hip problems for a period of 30 months. And since our dogs are tested before breeding, it enables us to also cover over genetic defects for the life of your puppy. We also test the heart, verify full detention, and normal patella. Registration is AKC Limited. Inquire for Full Registration. The color will be registered as yellow. Our primary concerns in order of importance: Health, Temperament and Socialization, and then Coat Color. We have working labs in homes all around the United States and some homes with 2 and 3 Sugarland labs. It's no secret labs can come in many different sizes, colors and energy levels. While I have much respect for the lean, hard working "American style" lab, I fell in love with and raise the "English style" lab with thicker bones, blockier heads and calmer demeanor also known as the "gentleman's gundog" So if you are looking for a "white lab puppy" to add to your family you are at the right place. We offer "English style" lab puppies for sale to approved loving homes only. Our puppies come in white, yellow and black. A White lab is not rare and does not carry an extra gene, it is just the lightest shade of yellow and registers as yellow with AKC. ALL of my babies are born in my home under full time care. I have been blessed to get to raise labs for 10 plus years and I have lots of references upon request. I stay in touch with alot of my puppy people and get tons of updates. So I proudly offer a discount to our men and women in all branches of our military active or retired fire fighters, police officers, and our repeat buyers. In the last ten years of raising my furbabies, I have met some really cool people and they included their Sugarland doggie in their special moments. Thank you all for sharing with me. Below are just some of the beautiful moments. Please don't hesitate to ask me anything. I will help you best I can. And of course be aware of the scammers.A few years ago my website was stolen by folks in Nigeria and stole my champion pedigrees and used them for their bulldogs. Pedigrees and health testing by request. Our dogs health is a top priority and we use Nuvet vitamins. .That breaks down to 52 cents a day Anyone can order even if you are not getting a puppy from me. Please use my order code .Contact Us.