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Summary What is a Black Pug? Pugs originate from China and can be traced back years to wealthy families as a companion pet. They became increasingly popular in European courts, mostly associated with the rich in the 16th and 17th centuries. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in as part of the toy group. The Black Pug is rarer than other colors. This color was originally seen as a birth defect and was unwanted; however Queen Victoria changed the game as she owned many black Pugs, making them popular and fashionable! Pugs have a signature look. They have small, short legs and a barrel shaped body. They have a curled tail that will fall up on their back. Their most famous feature is their short, wrinkly flat face and round head. You should expect them to have large eyes and small ears that are folded and can be either rose or button shaped. Height and Weight The Pug is a small dog. A fully-grown male Pug will reach around 11 inches tall and 15lbs. Whereas female Pugs are slightly smaller than males; fully grown females reach around 10 inches and 14lbs. Coat As the name suggests, these adorable Pugs are all black — their coats will shine a beautiful jet black. Pugs have double coats meaning they have a smooth and short top layer of fur. They shed more than you would think, loose fine hair will fall out regularly and they will shed heavily during the summer. Black Pug Personality and Temperament Pugs are charming and affectionate — they get along with everyone they meet. These dogs always want to be center of attention. Even though they love to nap, they also love to play. You will often find them running around and playing with their favorite human. They do not like any type of extreme weather, keep them in from the cold and keep them cool in the hot summer months. Due to their flat faces, they are prone to snore! Their devotion to you and your family can cause them to develop separation anxiety. They want to be center of attention, and when their family is not home they will become destructive. They may whine and cry, and also start chewing shoes and furnishings out of frustration. Pugs are great with kids. They love to play with children and will be the perfect addition to any family. Caring for a Black Pug The black Pug is for families that want an easy going dog, who will want to snuggle up to you most of the time. Their grooming routine is simple and effective. Around 40 minutes of activity a day will do them just fine. They are very playful dogs, so make sure to play with them when they start to become restless. You can take your Pug to dog parks, beaches or lakes. We recommend you use a harness when walking them, rather than a traditional lead. Change up their walking route every now and then, new sights and smells can be very enriching for your pooch. It is very boring to walk the same route each day, for both you and your Pug. Grooming and Shedding You may not think that the Pug sheds, but they do! They will shed loose fine hairs throughout the day. Only bathe them when they are particularly messy or have a doggy odor about them. Their face wrinkles need to be washed regularly with a damp cloth, this will clean dirt and sweat away. Make sure to dry them properly! Not cleaning them regularly will cause infections and buildup of bacteria. Trim their nails and clean their ears. Brush their teeth regularly to avoid dental issues. As for brushing, once a week will be fine. How to Train The Pug is very intelligent, but they can be a bit difficult to train — they are very willful and stubborn. Once you get to know their likes and dislikes they are trainable. They can become bored of their dog training regimen, so make sure to mix it up for them. Positive reinforcement is best to train any dog. Play can increase memory and relive stress for your pooch, be sure to use this to your advantage when training them. Early socialization is important with any dog, make sure to introduce your pooch to a range of people and other animals. Mental stimulation is important for a dog with this intelligence. They have a playful personality and love when their family plays with them. Whether it is a tug-of-war or a complex puzzle feeder, they love play time! Feeding and Diet The Pug is prone to developing obesity, so be sure not to over feed them. Dogs love routine, so feed them at the same time each day. How much you feed them depends on their weight and activity levels. Pugs should not be fed more than 1. When training your Pug, make sure you give them wet low calorie treats. They will love them, and it helps maintain their weight. Stick to food that is for small dogs, that have low amounts of wheat and corn syrup and that are mostly natural. Known Health Problems The Pug is a purebred that has many health issues. What Is a Black Pug? The black Pug is a purebred dog with black pigmentation. It is not a subtype of the Pug breed but rather one of the color variations. There are only two officially recognized coat colors for the Pug breed, and they are black and fawn. Black Pugs, although not considered rare, are less common than fawn Pugs. Black Pugs look identical to other Pugs except that they have overall black coloration. Their whole body is covered with black fur, although some may exhibit white markings. In terms of personality, black Pugs remain to be the adorable and playful Pug that we all know. They are friendly, and they get along well with children and other pets. Surprisingly, black Pugs have only gained popularity recently. Back then, they were disliked because many thought that their coloration was caused by a genetic anomaly. Are Black Pugs Rare? Black Pugs, although not rare compared to other dog breeds, are less common than other Pug varieties. There are fewer black Pug pups that are born compared to fawn Pug puppies. This does not mean, though, that black Pugs are unobtainable. You can still find black Pug pups for sale from reputable breeders through thorough research and an ample amount of patience. Black Pugs are rarer than fawn Pugs because of lower demand. Pugs with black coloration are often overlooked because of their supposed unhealthy conditions. This, in turn, affects the demand for black Pugs. Since black Pugs are less in demand than fawn Pugs, breeders tend to focus more on breeding fawn Pug pups. Nevertheless, the rarest coloration for the Pug breed is brindle. This coat color, though, is not officially recognized by any major kennel club. In terms of appearance, the black Pug looks identical to other Pug varieties except for the fact that it has a black coat color. A black Pug has a black, short, shiny, dense, double coat. The intensity of its dark coloration can either be jet black or obsidian black. Some have overall black pigmentation, while others may exhibit a few white markings. The black Pug also exhibits one of the defining features of the Pug breed — a round head with a flat face. This feature is common for brachycephalic dogs. It also has a wrinkly face and bulging globular eyes. Its ears are small and folded, while its muzzle is short, blunt, and square. Its legs are strong and straight. It should also have a short and cobby body with a wide chest. As for the tail, a curly appendage is desired. Black Pugs with double curled tails are adorned by Pug enthusiasts. As per the breed standard , the black Pug is a small-sized dog with a height ranging between 10 and 13 inches and a weight ranging between 14 and 18 pounds. It has a lean square body structure. You can expect it to become a fully grown dog after nine months. However, it can still gain a few pounds and centimeters depending on its diet and lifestyle. Canine coat color genetics can be quite puzzling for beginners. Fortunately, there is an easy way to understand the color genetics of black Pugs! Black Pugs and other dogs have two basic pigments in their bodies: black eumelanin and red pheomelanin. These pigments are produced by cells called melanocytes. Through the help of various genes, other colors such as fawn, blue, gray, brown, and coat markings exist. In the case of black Pugs, the K locus or the dominant black gene is responsible for the black pigmentation. Since the black gene is dominant, you only need to breed two black Pugs to produce black Pug puppies. Breeding a fawn Pug with a black Pug will also result in black Pug puppies since the gene for fawn color is recessive. It is normal for black Pug puppies to show changes in their color while they mature. The coat colors of black Pugs can either lighten up or darken as they grow old. This nuanced change in the intensity of their coloration is normal, and this usually occurs when their topcoats start to grow. Most black Pug puppies change color between 6 and 12 months old. However, others may change coat color later up until 18 months old. While coat color change is pretty normal, some color changes may be brought about by extreme sunlight, poor diet, skin disease, or medications. If your black Pug changes color abruptly and out of the blue, consult a vet immediately. There are only two recognized colors for the Pug dog breed: fawn and black. This means that you can register your black Pug in any of the mentioned kennel registries. Black Pugs are not one of the most popular household pets in the United States for no reason. They are adorned and sought after as companion dogs because of their befitting personalities. These dogs are highly affectionate to their owners. Although they are not as jolly as other toy breeds, they do love bonding with their family. Aside from these, black Pugs are also known to be calm and relaxed. In addition, these adorable small dogs are friendly. They get along well with children and other pets. They are also calm and gentle towards strangers, making them unfit to be guard dogs. They are also not loud dogs. You may only hear black Pugs bark on an occasional basis, like when there is a stranger in front of your door. However, black Pugs can also become anxious and stubborn sometimes, especially when they are left alone and bored. This is why early socialization is also important in raising a black Pug. Black Pugs are quite long-lived. They have lifespans that range between 12 and 15 years. Some can even live for more than 25 years with proper maintenance and care. Although they are generally healthy dogs, black Pugs can be predisposed to certain health issues, just like other dog breeds. Here are some of the common health issues for black Pugs: Respiratory Problems: Black Pugs are predisposed to a condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS , which is common for dog breeds with short noses or flat faces. Black Pugs with BOAS can develop multiple respiratory abnormalities, which could negatively impact the quality and length of their lives. Eye Problems: The skull structure of black Pugs can also lead to several eye problems. The eye sockets of most brachycephalic dogs are shallow. Hence, their eyeballs bulge out. Some of the common eye problems that black Pugs may develop include proptosis , distichiasis , and progressive retinal atrophy. Hip Dysplasia: This crippling joint-related condition is caused by the abnormal growth of the joints in the hip. Hip dysplasia is highly debilitating. Black Pugs with hip dysplasia may experience excruciating pain and show symptoms such as limping and weakness. Legg-Perthes Disease: This is another common joint-related disease common for toy breeds such as the black Pug. This condition usually affects one of the hind legs. A black Pug with this condition may show limping when it walks. The dog may also put no weight on the affected legs when it moves. However, you should have known by now that black Pugs are moderate to heavy shedders. Hence, brushing and bathing are important parts of their grooming sessions. They shed throughout the year, although they heavily blow their loose hair during the shifts of seasons. Their short, smooth coats only need weekly brushing to remove the loose hair and danders and keep them healthy and clean. Bathing can be done once a month or when needed. In bathing your black Pug, make sure only to use pet-friendly soap and shampoo to avoid irritation. You should also be careful not to let the suds and residue drip on the bulging eyes of your Pug. The wrinkly folds of skin should also be cleaned thoroughly, including the ears, paw pads, and pits where dirt might accumulate. These spots are also the favorite hiding places for ticks and fleas. If you plan to take home a black Pug for a pet, you should also be mindful of the expenses associated with owning one. Here is a breakdown of the initial expenses of owning a black Pug puppy: Type of Expense. Perfect for first time pet parents, the Black Pug is a loving and easy to train dog that is known for being very affectionate and the perfect companion. These pups are classified as a Toy breed because of their tiny size, which means they are a great canine for those with smaller spaces who still want a furry friend to cuddle! Read on below to find out more about this interesting little dog. History Of The Black Pug The Black Pug is one of the oldest purebred dogs in history and they have, therefore, been recognized for a long time by many different kennel clubs. They were originally worshiped in Egypt and bred as companion dogs for Tibetan Buddhists. Then, around two thousand years ago, the Black Pug came to China and many Emperors believe that these dogs brought good luck and began to worship them. In the s, Dutch traders brought the Black Pug from China to England and Holland and these pups became a popular dog among aristocracy and royalty. After the Civil War they made their first appearance in the US. Characteristics The Black Pug falls under the Toy breed and they are known for being extremely cute. These dogs are normally born in litters of one to nine puppies, although four to six puppies is most common. Appearance By the time your Pug dog is 8 weeks old, they will be ready to leave their mother and come home with you. They will be roughly between 2 to 4 lb. By the time your Pug is one year old they will be fully-grown and considered an adult. They can weigh up to 20 lbs, but the breed standard suggests they should weigh between 13 to 18 pounds. Because the Pug is in the Toy category, they normally stand between 10 to 14 inches. Although they are small, they are quite stocky animals and are normally short legged with a symmetrical cobby body and a large apple shaped head. The face is one of the most distinctive features of a Pug. They should also have a corkscrew tail. Coat The Pug coat is short, straight and soft. Unlike fawn colored Pugs, Black Pugs have a single coat which does mean they will shed less than their fawn siblings. That being said, Black Pug dogs are still known to shed and will lose more hair in the warmer seasons, which means they are not a good pet to have in the house if you have allergies! We go into more detail about grooming your Pug later on. Color Of course, Black Pugs should be black all over! The brindle colorway that some Pugs may have should not be confused with the black coloring. Brindle is a a striped pattern that combines black and brown and this coloring is not accepted in the breed standard. Temperament Pugs are bred to be companion puppies and will love to spend their days by your side. All they want is to be loved, and they will give plenty of this love back to you! The perfect family dog, Pugs love both adults and children. These dogs are very energetic and love playtime. They especially love to play with their family and can go on for hours! However, once they are back home they will happily curl up next to you on the couch and relax too, making them the perfect best friend. Although these dogs are very active and will want to play, they are also very relaxed dogs, which is what makes them such good first time pets. However, this does not come off as aggressive, and instead shows more of their curious nature. Lifespan The Black Pug has an average life expectancy of around 12 to 15 years. This is relatively long for a dog. Known Health Issues Unfortunately, like any dog, Pugs are known to have some health issues. Within this breed, the majority of their health problems are due to their flattened face. They are known as a brachycephalic breed which means they have a shortened airway due to their flattened face. Their face can be the cause of many breathing issues, especially whilst exercising or during high temperatures. Before buying a Pug you should do your research on brachycephalic breeds and learn about the risks and issues that are associated with this breed. The Pugs eyes can also be the cause of other health issues. Their skull structure means they have shallower eye sockets which gives them bulgy eyes. This can sometimes lead to cataracts and vision loss. Daily Life Now we know all about the temperament and characteristics of the Black Pug, it is time to take a look at what daily life is like with them. Read on below to find out about their food and diet, their exercise needs and what training a Pug is like. Food And Diet It is advised that a Toy dog of the Pug size should be eating around 40 calories per pound of their body weight everyday. This should be around calories a day for an adult Pug. Until they are 6 months old they will need to be fed three times a day, then twice a day from six months to one year, and then once a day when they hit their adult age. High-quality dry dog food with added water for moisture is advised for a Pug. Always make sure that it is a nutritious diet that hits all the food groups. They are a breed that can be known to gain weight, so try to stick to their diet and refrain from feeding them scraps. The more weight they gain, the more they will struggle with their breathing and may be prone to breathing problems. This food is also made with real chicken as the number on ingredient and ensures your Pug will be getting all the nutrients they need. Even better, because the Pug can be known to gain weight, this food helps with weight management and ensures they maintain lean muscles throughout the course of their life. Exercise The Pug only has little legs which means their exercise needs are not great. You should take them for two 20 minute walks everyday. Pugs are very sociable dogs, so taking them on different routes so you can introduce them to new sounds and smells is advisable. Black Pugs, because of their dark coat, are more prone to overheating in the sun, so if you live in a hot part of the world then walking them at night or early in the morning is advised. As we have mentioned before, Pugs love to play. Between walks you should ensure you make time to play games with them and keep them stimulated. Remember, they love spending time with you, so the more you do it, the happier they will be! Family Compatibility A Black Pug is a perfect family dog. First and foremost, these dogs love to be around people — both adults and children — and will be happiest when they are by your side, making them a true companion dog. Because they are a little dog, the Black Pug does not have great exercise needs which means they are great for those who live in small apartments or those who do not have a yard for them to run around in. That being said, they do love to play, so you should make sure you have time to put aside for bonding with your Pug. Training your Pug is simple too, and they get on well with other humans and animals. This includes other household pets such as cats and rabbits, and they will seek out humans for extra attention. Pugs also do not have high grooming needs — all you need to do is give them some love! Training and Socializing Pugs are a very intelligent dog, which makes training them easy. You should always use positive reinforcement and rewards in the form or verbal praise and treats to show them that they are doing a good job. They can be a little stubborn, but as long as you are consistent with them, then your Pug will learn. Never use harsh punishments with your Pug because this will upset them and you will not get any positive work from them. Socializing your Pug is also simple, because they love other people. You should try taking them to new places as often as you can so they can experience new sounds and smells, although it is known that Pugs react very well in many different situations. Remember, these dogs just want to be loved and to play, so as long as you incorporate that wherever you go, they will be happy. Grooming Because the Black Pug has a short and smooth coat, their grooming needs are not too high. However, as we mentioned above, these doggies can be known to shed so giving them a brush every week is a good idea to help minimize any shedding. You can bathe your Pug whenever you need to, although experts recommend that this should be done once a month. When bathing them you will need to ensure you clean the wrinkles on their face because bacteria and dirt can build up inside them and cause infection. Always ensure you take time to dry them properly, too. You can also used dental sticks if it is easier. Make sure you start grooming your Pug from a young age so they get used to the routine. This will allow them to see that there is nothing to worry about and they do not need to be scared. Black Pugs are not known for being aggressive dogs at all. The Pug is a loving and affectionate dog that makes the perfect companion. They love to be around humans, especially children, and other pets too. These dogs enjoy running and playing and will thrive in an environment where they can spend their day by your side. They also love to curl up next to you on the couch after a long day. Pugs have been known to be protective over their humans, but this comes from a place of curiosity instead of hostility. Many people say that Pugs are the pooch that just want to be loved so no, they are not aggressive! How much is a Black Pug? A Black Pug is one of the cheaper variations of the Pug breed and are not as expensive as their fawn colored siblings. Always remember to buy from a reputable breeder. If this is out of your price range, you can always check your local animal shelter and see if there are any Pugs there that need a home. There are many dogs in shelters who need loving and caring companions! Summary The Black Pug is an adorable and loving small breed of dog. Playful and energetic, this dog loves to play and will certainly keep you on your toes. These dogs are relatively low maintenance and do not have high grooming or exercise needs, and do well in small apartments. Perfect for first time dog owners, do you think a Black Pug could be for you? Search Dog Breeds. Black Pug puppies The black Pug is not a separate breed. But it is one of the two official colors that the standard Pug breed comes in. Pugs have always been a very popular breed. But recently the black Pug specifically has seen quite a rise in popularity. Black Pug History and Origins The Pug is an ancient dog breed, and the black variation is no different. Originating in China at least two-thousand years ago, Pugs were well-loved by Emperors along with other flat-faced dogs such as the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. In the s, they were introduced into Europe via Dutch traders. From here, the Pug became a hugely popular and sought-after breed. It is unclear when the black variation of the Pug first made an appearance. Many people believe it was around the s since the esteemed painter William Hogarth depicted a number of black Pugs in his paintings. But, since then, they have always been popular little dogs. What do Black Pugs Look Like? Aside from their glossy black coat, there are a few other distinguishing features of this little dog. All Pugs, regardless of their color, have flat faces and short corkscrew tails that curl over their back. This breed has a short, dense coat. If you choose a black Pug, they will be black all over with no other colors or markings. Their coat does shed a moderate amount. But other than that it just needs a weekly brush to keep on top of it. Adult black Pug dogs will grow be from 10 to 13 inches tall. Full grown Pugs should weigh from 14 to 18 pounds. Females are often a little smaller than males. Black Pug Temperament The temperament of this breed is partly why it is so loved. Pugs are incredibly friendly dogs and take well to training. However, one must be careful to not be too harsh with the dog. Positive and patient training works best for the Pug. The full grown black Pug is very social and tends to get rather anxious if left alone for long periods of time. So, raising them in a household where there is at least one human usually around at all times would be best for them. Black Pug Health Since the black Pug dog is just a regular Pug with a dark coat, they still sadly face all the health issues known within the breed. The Pug is a brachycephalic breed, meaning that they have a shortened skull in comparison to other dogs. This is due to hereditary developments within these particular breeds. This is why Pugs have the very flat face many people adore them for, but with it comes a multitude of severe health issues. Breathing Problems The shortening of the skull causes compression of the nasal cavity, making it much more difficult for a brachycephalic dog to breathe. This is why the full grown black Pug has a reputation as a noisy breather; it is, in fact, struggling to do so. This is further exacerbated by heat and physical activity, making it a real danger to exercise a black Pug on a warm sunny day. These breathing problems can eventually lead to laryngeal collapse, a very serious condition that can be quickly fatal in severe cases. Exercise in hot weather can prove to be dangerous. So in those cases exercise the dog somewhere cool indoors if possible. It is recommended you use a harness rather than a traditional lead when walking your dog. Eye Problems Brachycephalic dogs also tend to have eye problems. Due to the structural problems of the skull, their eye sockets tend to be shallow, giving adult black Pugs the bulging eyes they are known for. This can lead to painful issues such as corneal ulcers. In extreme cases, Pug eyes have been known to pop out of their sockets. Skin Conditions The Pug dog also tends to suffer from skin problems due to the significant amounts of wrinkling and skin folds present in the breed. This can lead to infections and irritation that may be hidden from view within a fold. Birthing Problems As the Pug is an extreme example of a brachycephalic breed due to how incredibly flat their faces are, they can also run into birthing problems. The large head of a Pug puppy may be unable to pass through the pelvis of the mother. Without surgical intervention, this can lead to the death of both the litter and the mother. Tails and Spines This is a breed with a very curly tail, known as a screw tail. However, this twisting of the vertebrae in the tail can present itself further up the spine, which can cause severe issues—known as Hemivertebrae. If the black Pug has severe twisting of the spine due to this condition, it can cause paralysis and ataxia of the pelvic limbs, incontinence, kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis. These conditions can be very painful and debilitating for the dog and may require surgical correction if possible. The best breeders will be able to provide all possible health certificates. They may also make efforts to breed for longer snouts in Pugs, like Retro Pug breeders. Because of the enormous number of health problems in this breed, you should consider rescue dogs. If your heart is set on a Pug, rescue can be a great way to offer one a second chance at a loving home. And lots of Pugs are given up when owners realise how much care they really need. Rescue center staff will ask you lots of questions to make sure the dog is going to the right home. Is a Black Pug Right for Me? This is something only you can decide. The features that make this dog cute and desirable can potentially cause them severe pain and discomfort, which in some cases can lead to life-threatening conditions. If you have your heart set on a black Pug, ensure you can put in a large amount of time to care for them. Educate yourself on the best care for this breed. As with purchasing any new dog, be sure to find a reputable breeder who can inform you about any health issues present in the parents and allow you to meet them. That way you can be sure to avoid any potential genetic issues.

Check them out on Amazon here. To learn more about what to feed your golden retriever puppy, check out this article here. Brush Golden retrievers are obviously very fluffy and need to be brushed often. Check this brush out on Amazon here. Check it out on Amazon here. Chew Toy Check it out on Chewy here he had the size small. Plush Toy This is a plush, squeaky toy that will keep your puppy busy for hours. Interactive Toy Interactive toys allow you to play and bond with your puppy, and are great for teaching or reinforcing commands like drop it, sit and stay. Bonus Items The above list is for the bare necessities of what your puppy will need to get started. Below are some extra things that, although are not necessary, have come in pretty handy. Food Storage Container This is great for keeping food fresh and in a convenient place. Since we get the pound bag of food, we get this container that holds 42 pounds of food. Note that this container does not come with a scooper, so we recommend one like this that has measurements on it. Check out the storage container on Amazon here. Exercise Pen Exercise pens are great for confining your puppy to a smaller area while giving them more space to run around in than a crate. Using a combination of baby gates, exercise pens, and the crate will help you keep them safe while also keeping them from chewing up the house. Get this baby gate from Amazon here. Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook Getting everything you need will help you physically prepare for your puppy, but you also need to mentally prepare for your puppy. This book will help you know exactly what to do before you bring your puppy home, how to handle the first month which is the toughest month! Get the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook here. That means get their crate set up, have their food and water bowls in their designated places, and have a few welcome home toys set out to help your new pup have a great experience in your home right away. Find a veterinarian. Locate the nearest emergency animal hospital. Find both the nearest hospital, and the nearest 24 hour hospital. Find a puppy kindergarten class. If you ask any trainer, breeder, or veterinarian how to have a well-behaved pup, nearly all of them will recommend joining a puppy kindergarten class. The socialization aspect alone is worth it. Puppy-proof your house and yard. Get down on your hands and knees to see what your puppy will be seeing remember this: whatever can be chewed will be chewed , and make sure there are no puppy-sized holes that they could escape through in your backyard. For more tips on how to raise your new golden retriever puppy, check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Life With Your Golden Retriever Puppy Although this might seem like a pretty big list, if you have it all when you bring your puppy home with you, it will make the transition time that much easier. Take lots of pictures and videos! Have a question about any of these items? Let us know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is getting a puppy and needs to see this list, please share this with them! Related articles:. Other sweaters have not been big enough in the chest because of all his fur, but this works well, and has large armholes. A nontoxic nose balm , for golden retrievers whose sniffers are dry, chapped, scaly, or could just use a little TLC. Promising review: "My golden gets a really rough nose. We put this nose butter on her and within a couple of days, her nose looked so much better and smoother. She loves this stuff! An easy-to-clean slicker brush with retractable bristles that will keep your pupper's double coat smooth and healthy, without pulling or yanking. This gets into the undercoating and does a good job. Given the way the top shield is constructed, I don't think the little wires will get bent and jam up. A padded, no-pull harness specifically designed for larger dogs , so your golden can always feel comfy and secure on walks yes, even when that squirrel who lives in your yard starts antagonizing them. It is easy to adjust and put on your dog. It is padded and seems very comfortable for my golden retriever. I love that you can attach the leash to the shoulder area or to the chest area. I specifically wanted a harness for the front clip to help with leash training and it has worked very well so far. Really happy with this purchase! An orthopedic dog bed , because the memory foam will help relieve some of the joint pain older goldens often experience. The memory foam gives him incredible support in any position. Although he is a young dog, I would think this bed is perfect for older dogs whose joints are beginning to stiffen. I have placed the bed in my office and he lies there happily for hours watching me work. We will consider getting another for the living room. She sat comfortably on the cover and enjoyed her ride. The cover is easy to install and to take off when it's time for carpool. My car seats stayed clean even after a trip to the park! A durable rubber squeaky toy , for the golden who is constantly destroying their playthings R. Squeaky Chipmunk Plush Toy, we hardly knew ye. He chews through toys in the matter of seconds, but this one has held up. It's very durable and my dog really likes the squeaky aspect of it. It's not obnoxiously squeaky, either — you have to squeeze down on the toy pretty hard to make it squeak. A durable rope leash with a padded handle , so even if your golden is a tugger, your hand won't get hurt or strained. I was actually quite shocked by the quality — it's excellent! A cooling mat that will give your golden relief from the summer heat or help soothe an injury for up to three hours. Very cool to the touch and seems to be made well. My golden retriever is 95 lbs and this was the biggest pad I could find. She can lay all sprawled out with plenty of extra room. A raincoat with reflective visibility strips , so your pal can stay safe, visible, dry and cuuuuuute on rainy days. I have a pound golden retriever and XL fits him great. Plus, it looks adorable! A pair of water-resistant, nonslip booties, because goldens love outdoor time all year-round, even when the pavement is burning-hot or covered in ice-melting salt. He loves to go on walks, but nerve issues in his rear legs caused him to drag his feet and bloody his nails. I ordered these dog shoes in the hopes that they would protect his paws while walking, and I am so pleased. A pair of sharp, easy-to-grip nail clippers, so you can trim your puppo's thick nails quickly and move on to activities that are more fun for the both of you like, say, literally anything else. Check Price on Amazon Like all breeds, golden retrievers like to chew on objects that can include your shoes, remote controls, and undergarments. Between 12 to 24 weeks old, the puppy needs to chew on something safe to relieve teething. It helps puppies transition from a softer chew to a firmer one for adults. Interactive Toys Check Latest Price Intelligent breeds like the golden retriever can become bored if their minds are not challenged, but you can offer interactive toys for mental stimulation. It has several compartments for storing treats, and your dog has to figure out how to open each panel to expose the food. Interactive feeders also help dogs slow down when they consume their food too fast. Not only does it permanently remove the very worst smells and stains yes, everything you can imagine! Click here to get yourself a bottle. Dog feces and urine are not only unpleasant to your nose, but they can also stain furniture, carpet, and wood. Manufacturers produce several cleaners for cleaning pet stains, but some are more effective than others. Some cleaners only mask the smell but do not eliminate the proteins causing the odor. Poop Bags. By Susan B. Barnes Susan B. Barnes is a lifestyle, food and travel journalist who is as comfortable bicycling through Italian olive groves and sampling fermented shark in Iceland as she is taking her dog on miles-long walks and hanging out at the dog park. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on January 28, We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Though she's happy to snuggle and cuddle up with you, she's also an active dog who enjoys being outside, be that going on walks or hikes , to the dog park , or playing fetch in a fenced-in backyard. As a good dog parent, you want to be prepared for whatever adventures await the two of you, but taking a look at all of the products out there for dogs can be overwhelming. From the right collar, leash and harness setup to grooming needs, food bowls, road trip necessities, toys to burn off all that energy, plus a few goodies for the humans, this list has everything you need to take care of the most golden part of your life. Featuring a collar, leash, and waste bag dispenser, you'll be prepared for your walks and your golden will love all the compliments on how handsome she looks. This harness, with its padded chest and belly, is fully adjustable for a perfect fit with leash clips in the front and back. It comes in a variety of colors to coordinate with your dog's leash and collar, too. The adjustable height means the serving tray can grow with your golden, and the pads on the bottom prevent slipping while she eats and drinks. Place a mat under the bowls to catch any water droplets. The stainless steel bowls can be removed and popped into the dishwasher for easy cleaning. Not only will she have to slow down to find the food, but she'll essentially work out a puzzle which keeps her mentally stimulated, too. Choose to purchase just the cover and fill it yourself with old pillows, towels, sheets, or clothes, or you can opt to purchase their eco-friendly fill made from plastic bottles or their memory foam insert. The extra-large size is recommended for full-grown goldens. Not only does the shampoo leave your pup fresh and clean, but it moisturizes and conditions so that after-bath brushings are tangle-free. It's terrific for dogs with sensitive skin, too. With a dense outer coat and thick undercoat, it can take some time to brush out all the layers, but this undercoat rake makes quick work of their luscious locks. One Chewy reviewer wrote that the medium-tooth rake was "so wonderful to get my two golden retrievers' undercoat combed out. Also, the gel grip is quite easy to hold on to. The non-slip handle works for both right- and left-handed users, and ensures you maintain control to avoid any mishaps. One reviewer says: "I stumbled across these supplements while trying to find some joint relief for my golden, Sandy. After only a week I already saw some improvement in her movement and she had an easier time getting up into and out of the car, which was becoming a struggle. Her coat is also looking healthier and she seems to be less itchy. Not only does this fleece-lined coat fit snugly for maximum warmth, but it's waterproof and has reflective strips to stay safe during nighttime walks and winter hikes. They can also help older dogs find traction on slippery floors. Tip: use the printable sizing guide to measure your dog's feet before ordering to ensure a perfect fit. And send us videos of your dog trying them for the first time! This seat cover is not only comfortable for your pup, but waterproof, too. When it's time to go, simply lay the cover over the seat, loop straps around the head rests, push the anchors in, and voila—you're ready to hit the road! One way to do that is to use a harness that doubles as a seat belt: simply attach the harness to the seatbelt using a carabiner, and you'll both be on your way safely and comfortably. Fill the bottle, twist on the top that doubles as a bowl, and when your golden's ready for a drink, squeeze the bottle and water will fill the bowl. Release, and the water disappears back into the bottle. Pop some treats in the holes, cover them up, and watch your pup work her magic to figure out the puzzle and find those tasty rewards. Just like a ball you use to play fetch , this one flies through the air but when she retrieves it, she'll spend some time figuring out how to get to her favorite treats inside. When your pup drops the ball into the top of the launcher, it'll throw it 10, 25, or 40 feet; choose the "random" setting to keep her guessing. Buy Now Change up your game of fetch with this fun Frisbee alternative. This flying squirrel is made of a double canvas material that is durable enough to withstand rough play, yet still agile to spin and tumble in the air, keeping your golden guessing and enticed in play. Shop now: Chuckit! The sturdy sole ensures you'll stay on your feet, and the bone-printed liner is a fun and unexpected treat. Embroidered on percent cotton canvas, and if it gets a little dirty, simply pop it into the washing machine, air dry, and it'll be back on your furniture in no time. The rubber backing prevents slipping when your guests wipe their paws before stepping inside. It's hilarious enough to be a favorite gift for any golden lover on your list, too! Perfect for the dog park, running errands, around the house, or really anywhere you please! The design can also be used on totes, hats, and more. Food bowl There are endless options of food and water bowls. In addition, the bowl can prevent gagging, choking, vomiting, indigestion, bloat, GDV, and malabsorption. If you already have a dog bowl, you can simply add a slow feeder insert. Water bowl Ellie has an 8-cup YETI water bow l to keep her water cold for more extended periods and a 4-cup bowl for food. YETI allows you to customize each bowl with a name, initials, or image. Great as a gift! They help prevent your puppy from getting tangled up in the leash and provide better control. Make sure you check out their sizing guide for the appropriate fit. We added a crate pad for noise reduction and comfort. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. It is essential that the dog crate is never used as punishment — the crate must always be regarded as a safe and special retreat. Gates Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. Use a gate to limit access to certain areas of your home and reduce unwanted chewing or house soiling. Introduce your dog to small sections of the house at a time. We prefer the walk-through gate for easy mobility through the house. Toys and Chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with various items to see what interests your puppy most. However, the last inch of a bully stick can be a choking hazard if swallowed. This safety device allows your pup to enjoy the benefits of long-term chews while reducing the risks of choking. I typically give it to her for 20 minutes, rinse it off, and store it in the refrigerator until the next day, which prevents bacteria growth. Note you probably want to keep it separate from your food. However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped!

UKC Classification: Companion Dog Prevalence: Common The English bulldog is a brawny little powerhouse whose characteristic crablike waddle exudes great strength, stability and vigor. The dog's head is large and spherical, and the muzzle is extremely short, giving the face a flattened appearance. The English bulldog's eyes are dark and set low and wide on the forehead in the frontal plane. The nose is black and slightly upturned. The jaws or "chops" are massive, broad and undershot. The lower jaw juts out in front of the upper jaw to scarcely expose the lower incisors, producing a comical grin. The lips are fleshy and pendulous. The cheeks are well rounded and protrude sideways. The ears are thin, small and angle forward like flaps that frame the forehead. The English bulldog's neck is short and thick; the shoulders are massive, muscular and broad. The chest is deep and full, and the back is barreled and slightly arched. His rounded hips protrude slightly above the level of the back. The stubby tail is thick and either straight or screwed. His short, stocky legs have great muscle definition. They are splayed out and slightly bowed at the elbows and hocks to form a sturdy, base-wide stance. The English bulldog stands about 16 inches tall. The female weighs about 50 pounds 23 kilograms , and the male weighs about 54 pounds 24 kilograms. The English bulldog's skin is loose and pendant with heavy wrinkles and thick folds on the face and a dewlap hanging from the throat. The coat is short and fine textured. The various color patterns are brindle, piebald, and solid white, red, fawn or fallow. Personality: The English bulldog has a sweet, gentle disposition. Dependable and predictable, the bulldog is a wonderful family pet and loving to most children. People-oriented as a breed, they actively solicit human attention. However, they have retained the courage that was originally bred into them for bull baiting, so they make fine watchdogs. Although they generally get along well with other family pets, English bulldogs can be aggressive to unfamiliar dogs. Living With: English bulldogs make fine apartment pets and do not require a yard. Typically low-endurance dogs, they need only a moderate amount of exercise. They thrive best in temperate climates; they readily overheat and have breathing difficulties in hot weather, and they chill easily in cold temperatures. Generally loud breathers, English bulldogs tend to snore and wheeze. Many drool as well. They are moderate shedders and their short coats require little grooming. However, the wrinkles on the face should be wiped regularly to prevent skin infections. History: Named for its use in the sport of bull baiting, the English bulldog seems to have originated in the British Isles sometime prior to the 13th century. One of the few references to the sport dates back to , and talks about a butcher's dogs that chased a bull through the English town of Stamford. This pursuit so pleased the earl of the town that he inaugurated bull baiting as a sport in his domain. Today, the English bulldog makes a fine family pet. The AKC recognizes the breed simply as the bulldog. Related Pet Care Articles. A full-grown male English Bulldog weighs about 50 to 55 pounds and stands 14 to 16 inches tall. A full-grown female English Bulldog weighs about ten pounds less at 40 to 44 pounds and stands at 12 to 14 inches tall. According to Care. This will be around inches tall for a male English Bulldog and approximately inches tall for a female English Bulldog. As for weight, a 6-month-old male English Bulldog will weigh about 33 to 37 pounds, while a 6-month-old female English Bulldog will weigh around 26 to 33 pounds. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide that details 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, dog safety, and more! How much bigger will my English Bulldog get? If your English Bulldog is over two years old, they are probably fully grown. Any additional weight they put on may be excess and should be discussed with your veterinarian. Do their paws look big next to the rest of their body? They may still have room to grow as this is a classic puppy feature! A dog rarely grows to be larger than their parents, so this will provide you with a general idea of their final adult size. What is the size of a full-grown English Bulldog? According to the Bulldog Club of America Bulldog Standards , an English Bulldog should appear stocky but symmetrical with no excessively prominent features. English Bulldogs are especially prone to gaining extra weight and may exceed these weight estimates. Your veterinarian will be happy to discuss food type, quantity, frequency of feedings, and treats to get your English Bulldog back to their ideal weight. English Bulldogs may require extra attention due to some genetic health problems that are common for the breed. For example, English Bulldogs will require regular at-home baths, this cleaning is specifically to prevent infections under their skin folds. English Bulldogs are also highly prone to putting on excess weight, which is detrimental to their health. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that .The English Bulldog is one of the most severely affected dog breeds and brachycephalic syndrome can lead to difficulty breathing, respiratory distress, heatstroke, and difficulty exercising due to their breathing restrictions. All of this can make weight loss even more difficult for the English Bulldog breed. Because your English Bulldog may have a harder time breathing than other dogs, your vet can recommend safe ways to allow them to exercise and enjoy life without getting overheated. If your pup has a particularly bad case and has difficulty breathing even when not exercising, you can talk to your veterinarian about surgery for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome which is a common procedure done to help English Bulldogs and other brachycephalic dog breeds, like pugs, breath more easily. Taking your English Bulldog to regular veterinary appointments to keep them healthy and happy is one of the best things you can do for them! Not only can your veterinarian provide personalized advice to keep your pup healthy, but they can screen for common English Bulldog health problems, like skin infections, hip and knee problems. Unfortunately, veterinary care can be pricey. Veterinarian treatments for health issues, like hip and knee problems, can easily cost thousands of dollars. Treating medical issues, like accidents or sudden illnesses, can be expensive, but this should never be the deciding factor in treating your English Bulldog. Final Considerations As pet parents, we do our part by providing quality food, exercise, and care at home, but we also need to take our dogs in for regular veterinary appointments. A professional can provide you with personalized recommendations for your dog, as well as testing to detect any health issues early on. Prevention and early detection are vital in keeping our dogs healthy and happy! English Bulldog puppies grow into silly, lovable, and wrinkly dogs with a lot of personality. Compare and enroll in a top English Bulldog insurance plan here and gain the peace of mind that you'll always be able to do the right ting for your pet. At Pawlicy Advisor, we always want the health care decisions you make for your pet to be based on what you and your veterinarian think is best for them rather than being limited by financial restrictions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The English Bulldog is a wide, medium-sized, compact dog with short legs. The body and head are massive with extra skin on both the skull and forehead falling in folds. The cheeks extend to the sides of the eyes. The muzzle is wide, short and pug with a broad, deep stop. The black nose is broad with large nostrils. The dark eyes are deep set. The rose ears are small, thin and set high on the head. The jaws are massive, very broad, and square with hanging upper lips. The teeth should have an under bite. The tail is either straight or screwed and carried low. The short, flat coat is straight, smooth and glossy. Coat colors include red brindle and other shades of brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow, piebald, pale yellow or washed-out red or white or a combination of these colors. Temperament Although the English Bulldog's appearance can be somewhat intimidating, it is among the gentlest of dogs. Just the same it will see off any intruder , and few would risk a close encounter with a dog brave enough to bait a bull. It is described as a very affectionate and dependable animal, gentle with children, but known for its courage and its excellent guarding abilities. Bullheaded and determined, this breed can be very persistent. They do not give up easily. Bulldogs are very much a people's dog, seeking out human attention and loving every bit it can get!! A lot of human attention is required for the breed's happiness. Some English Bulldogs can be a bit dominating and need an owner who knows how to display strong leadership and understands alpha canine behavior. A Bulldog who understands its place in the human pack is nice to, and reliable with all people. This breed is good with family pets , but some can be combative with strange dogs if they do not see themselves as followers in their pack. When Bulldogs are young, they are full of energy, but slow down as they get older. They snore very loudly, most have drool and slobber tendencies and are messy eaters. Bulldogs that display guarding behaviors, such as guarding furniture , food, toys, or other spots in the house, or that are dog aggressive do not have humans who are being the dog's pack leader. This behavior only happens when dogs are allowed to take over. These behaviors can be corrected when the owners start displaying the proper leadership. Dogs that feel they need to run the home are not as happy as dogs that know they are human followers, as it is very stressful for a dog to need to keep "his" humans in line. Height, Weight Height: about 12 - 16 inches 31 - 40 cm there is no prescribed height, but shorter Bulldogs are more prized when being shown Weight: Males 53 - 55 pounds 24 - 25 kg Females 49 - 51 pounds 22 - 23 kg Health Problems Prone to breathing problems; some have small windpipes as well. Also poor eyesight, cherry eye , very susceptible to heatstroke in warm weather or hot rooms and cars. Very cold sensitive. Prone to mast cell tumors. Birth defects are common in some lines. Susceptible to skin infections, hip and knee problems. Prone to flatulence, especially when fed any other type of food other than their regular dog food. Puppies are often delivered by caesarian section. Some say it is because of the dogs' large head size, however others claim you can hardly tell the difference between the head size of a Bulldog with the head size of other breeds when the pups are first born; claiming not enough dams are given the opportunity to try and deliver naturally because of the large head myth. A lot of Bulldogs do run the risk of having weak labors and this could increase the risk of a caesarian. Living Conditions The English Bulldog is good for apartment life. They are very inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is an indoor dog. Bulldogs do best in temperate climates as the breed can chill easily in cold weather and have trouble cooling off in very hot weather. Exercise The English Bulldog needs to be taken on a daily walk to fulfill its primal canine instinct to migrate. Those individuals that do not get this need met are more likely to have behavior issues. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Teach them to enter and exit all door and gateways after the human. English Bulldogs that are in good shape are capable of moving very quickly for short periods of time. Life Expectancy An average of 8 years. Some live longer while others live shorter lives. Litter Size 4 - 5 puppies; as a result of this breed's large head they are prone to needing a caesarian section Grooming The smooth, fine, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. Wipe the face with a damp cloth every day to clean inside the wrinkles. This breed is an average shedder. The dog was given the name "bull" because of its use in bull baiting and for its robust look of a little bull. They were aggressive, ferocious and courageous with the power to attack full grown bulls, which they did in arena combat before the practice was banned by law in the 19th century. Bulldogs would attack from the bottom up going underneath the bull and aiming for the neck, making it hard for the bull to fight back. Today's Bulldog has a very different temperament from those of his ancestors, but still retains a strong determination. Life Span Did You Know? The loving and gentle English Bulldog is one of the most well-liked companion dog breeds around the world. A breed of English origins, the Bulldog was first recognized as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club in .The original use of this breed was Bull baiting, which was eventually outlawed with the establishment of the Cruelty to Animals Act of .This legislative act made the act of Bull and Bear baiting both illegal. The current role most suitable for the English Bulldog would be as a companion or family pet, given their sweet demeanor. The English Bulldog is relatively easy to train but definitely takes some work for more complicated commands. If you are looking for a breed to sit, stay, and play dead for treats, this is the breed for you. While they may not be the sharpest tool in the shed compared to some of the other highly intelligent breeds, they are easy going and apt to please their owner. Training this breed will be accomplished with less difficulty if you make the training reward based. Can you say Sweetheart? While this dog breed makes an above average watchdog because of their courage, this breed is a loving companion at heart. The Bulldog is excellent with kids when socialized and should be very agreeable with guests of the house. The English Bulldog breed as a whole is heralded as one of the most well liked companion breeds in the world. The Bulldog should do well with other family pets as long as properly introduced and socialized. They need to be socialized early and often to curb any negative feelings towards strange dogs. This breed is generally agreeable to most environments. Although they easily adapt to a noisy and chaotic household, they are not very tolerant of extreme weather, whether it be hot or cold. Although they are well liked and very popular, one must be aware of the potential health pitfalls with this breed. Some of the potential issues you can see with the English Bulldog is Cherry Eye, Entropion, or dysplasia. This breed also has a high risk for weight gain, so this should be monitored. An average Bulldog life span is between 8 and 12 years. You do not need to be a professional dog trainer to own an English Bulldog. They are good for most novice owners because they are passive by nature. The English Bulldog is an average shedder, so brushing him twice a week with a firm brush will be a good idea. Also, they can have a tendency to drool, so making sure you wipe their face off everyday can help ensure they do not suffer irritation on their faces and between their wrinkles. Because of the amount of wrinkles they have, it is recommended that you clean between the wrinkles fairly often to avoid irritations. The English Bulldog is a generally low energy breed. They do not require a lot of exercise, but when they do play, they play hard! Because they can be intense when they do have an energy burst, an owner must be aware of overexertion. They can be very playful, but do tend to tire out quickly. The English Bulldog is a short, stocky breed that should weigh between pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Warren G. Harding both owned English Bulldogs. Featured English Bulldog Article.

Where did the English Bulldog Pitbull mix originate? Fun fact: Pitbulls are actually descendants of the Bulldog? Sometimes called Olde Anglican Bulldogges, this hybrid likely originated sometime in the s when breeders decided to combine them to get the best of two breeds. Meet the English Bulldog An English Bulldog running on grass Bulldogs, sometimes called the Old English Bulldog, were said to be first bred during the 13th century in England where they were bred for bull-baiting and other so-called bloodsports. They get about 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 40 and 50 pounds. They are known for being docile, sweet, and loyal, but courageous when they need to be. If you want to know more about this dog, check out our article on the Miniature English Bulldog. The pitbull dog generally weighs between pounds and grows between 17 and 19 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are generally smaller than males. These muscular, stocky dogs have a broad jaw and square head. They are smart, confident, loyal, and courageous. Since there is no breed standard for the English Bulldog Pitbull, they can vary in appearance. They have a broad, large head with a large jaw, just like their parent breeds. They might have a short snout or a longer one like the pitbull. They have a thick neck, muscular chest, and are often a bit more squat than a purebred pitbull. The legs are generally long and slightly hocked like a bulldog, and well-muscled. Size: How big does Bulldog Pitbull mix get? Females are smaller than males. You may see some that get much larger, weighing up to 70 pounds. These dogs reach their full size around months old. They can be great for apartments, so long as you give them regular exercise. They also do well in a home with a large yard where they can romp and play. So long as you make the effort to get them some physical exercise and a chance to stretch their legs, they can live just about anywhere. Wondering About the English Bulldog Pitbull mix coat? English Bulldog Pit Bull mixes have a straight, short, smooth, and stiff coat. They shed year-round, though they may blow their coat more often twice a year. Are English Bulldog Pitbull mixes good family dogs? Unfortunately, both bulldogs and pitbulls have a reputation for being ferocious or even vicious dogs. Both breeds can be incredibly sweet, loyal, and eager to be a part of the family. They make wonderful family dogs. They are careful and protective of children and they are eager to please, making them easy to train. Of course, like all dogs, they need to be taught to be polite and respectful with kids, and kids need to be trained to be the same with their dog buddy. Despite their fearsome reputation, they are friendly dogs who are kind and welcoming with strangers. A dog that is mean, snappy, or violent with strangers needs immediate training because this is not how these breeds typically behave. They are, however, confident and brave, which can come across as aggressive or tough. They are affectionate, loving, and happy-go-lucky dogs. Although they are strong, as long as they are trained not to pull on the leash or jump up, they make excellent pets for senior citizens. Because of their fighting background, some dogs might be aggressive towards other dogs, but this is something that you can train them not to be aggressive. They might also be aggressive towards small animals like rodents and rabbits, which they can see as prey. The bottom line, though, is that they should never be dangerous animals. These are sweet, friendly dogs given the proper training and socialization. They are the perfect family pet if bred, raised, and trained the right way. Keep in mind that many places ban pitbulls and pitbull mixes, so if you rent your home, ask your landlord before bringing one home. However, their imposing size and appearance alone can make them a good guard dog. You should be able to potty train them with no trouble at all. Just look at this adorable bullypit learning some tricks. You need to socialize them well and practice positive reinforcement. While a dog with a shorter nose is often more susceptible to overheating, if your particular dog has a longer nose, they will be able to handle hot weather better. Exercising Your English Bulldog Pitbull mix Depending on whether they take after their pitbull or bulldog parent, these mixes can be medium high energy to medium-low energy. Regardless, you want to give them anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise per day depending on their natural activity level. That can mean tossing a ball, going for a jog, a nice long walk, or even a swim. You should also give your dog plenty of mental stimulation. That means playing games with them, like hide and seek, or giving them puzzle feeders to keep them entertained. You should also train them to do tricks, which helps increase the bond between the two of you in addition to giving them mental stimulation. Grooming: Do English Bulldog Pitbull mixes shed? They can sometimes shed heavier twice a year, but they will be dropping hair winter, spring, summer, and fall. Give them a light brushing once a week. At the same time, trim their nails, check their ears, and give them a look to make sure that they seem healthy. Once or twice a week, brush their teeth and wipe out their ears with a clean cloth. You should bathe an adult dog every six weeks or so, unless they get particularly messy. Puppies should be bathed on a similar schedule. If you need pitbull or bulldog accessories for your dog, you can find brushes, doggy toothbrushes, and nail clippers at Amazon. They also carry breed-specific sweaters, coats, and beds. Feeding Your English Bulldog Pitbull Mix Since these dogs have moderate to high energy, they need a good amount of dog food. A high energy dog will need more food, while a lower energy dog needs less. Break up their meals into two a day, one in the morning and one in the evening. What health problems do English Bulldog Pitbull mix dogs have? Unfortunately, English Bulldog Pitbulls suffer from a range of health issues. Properly cared for, these dogs can have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. First, these dogs can suffer from overheating, particularly if your dog has a short muzzle. Dogs with a longer muzzle are less prone to overheating. Like many large breeds with deep chests, this mixed breed is prone to bloat, which is when their stomach twists. This is a life-threatening condition and you need to get to a vet immediately. They can also suffer from respiratory issues. What causes respiratory issues in English Bulldog Pitbull Mixes? This condition is known as Brachycephalic Syndrome. This is when a short-nosed dog may have difficulty breathing. You also need to watch out for skin issues like eczema, severe allergies, mange, and skin infections. Similar to many other large dogs, pitties and bulldogs suffer from hip dysplasia. They may also have degenerative spine disease. Additionally, they may have thyroid Issues such as hypothyroidism. Heart Disease is another common issue, which can include congenital heart defects. They may also suffer from dental problems, screw tail, eye problems like a cherry eye, arthritis, idiopathic head tremors, or cancer. To make sure your dog lives the healthiest, happiest, and longest life they can, be sure to give them regular health screenings with a trusted veterinarian. You may also want to run some tests as a preventative measure to check for problems like heart issues and hip issues. A mix of these dogs can be expected to suffer from a similar issue. How much does an English Bulldog Pitbull mix puppy cost? Make absolutely certain that you find a good breeder before purchasing a dog, especially one of the bully breeds. A good breeder will socialize the puppies from a young age, which is essential in creating a friendly, well-balanced adult dog. Avoid pet stores are puppy mills. However, you can sometimes find breeders who specialize in pitbull or bulldog mixes. For instance, Lancaster puppies breed bulldog mixes. Bulldog Rescue Network does the same for bulldogs. You should also check with your local animal shelter. Curious about other English Bulldog and Pitbull Mixes? Not sure if this particular hybrid is right for you? There are lots of pitbull-type mixes that include one or the other out there. Some mixes include other bully breeds like mastiffs or American bully dogs. Others involve surprising combinations like chihuahuas or French bulldogs. Other English Bulldog Mixes. Trainability: Appearance Overall, the English Bulldog Pitbull mix has a sturdy body with a thick neck and muscular chest. Their head is large, and their jaws are wide, while their snout might be either large or small, depending on the parent breed they take after. Their legs are well-muscled and generally long. Their ears are small and semi-pricked, and their eyes feature colors ranging from dark brown to a shade of amber. Their coat is short, smooth, and straight, and it can exhibit several color patterns that can either be solid or a mix of brown, fawn, white, cream, chocolate, gray, black, tan, golden, blue, or yellow. Typically, male English Bulldog Pitbull mix canines are larger and heavier than their female counterparts. Moreover, they fully grow by the age of 14 months. Personality and Temperament Since both of their parent breeds are wrongly associated with aggression, the English Bulldog Pitbull mix is also thought to be an aggressive dog breed. Nevertheless, that is not true. They are incredibly sweet, affectionate, and pleasing to their owners. They make great family dogs as they are not only friendly with their loving owners but are also good with children. These pooches are quite careful and protective when left with kids. Nonetheless, it is better to train your furry friend to be polite around children, and children should be taught not to be mischievous towards dogs as rough play may make your dog anxious. If properly socialized at a young age, your English Bulldog Pitbull mix would be welcoming of strangers as well. So you cannot trust them to be good guard dogs. That said, if you provide them with guard dog training , they can learn to distinguish between a friendly stranger and an intruder. Did You Know? Perhaps the biggest plus in their personality is that they are neither separation anxious nor bark too much, making them a laid-back and quiet companion. They are, however, not much welcoming of other pets, especially small pets like cats and hamsters. Due to their fighting background, you might find your dog being aggressive towards cats. Similarly, he might go after rabbits and rodents, considering them to be prey. That said, if you socialize your English Bulldog Pitbull mix puppy at a young age with cats, you could witness your cat and dog living together happily. But still, you should try not to leave your Olde Anglican Bulldogge unsupervised with small pets. History We are not sure when the breed was first established because of the unavailability of the documented history of the English Bulldog Pitbull mix. However, it is widely believed that the mix breed had started gaining traction in the early s. The English Bulldog is older than the Pitbull breed. It originated during the 13th Century. Though being ferocious, it was gradually tamed later on. On the other hand, after bull baiting was made illegal, three famous Pitbulls originated, namely, the American Pitbull Terrier , Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and American Staffordshire Terrier. Thomas Alva Edison, the inventor of the incandescent light bulb, owned a Pitbull. Similarly, if your pooch has a long nose , he will be able to handle hot weather as well. That said, the English Bulldog Pitbull mix is not a dog breed for first-time owners. Continue reading to learn if you will be able to care for this charming dog breed. Diet The English Bulldog Pitbull mix needs about 1, to 1, calories every day. Also, consider breaking his meal into two. They are known to have an average energy level and a generally friendly disposition. They are not inherently aggressive as most dog critics suggest. If you prefer a medium-sized canine companion, this crossbreed proves to be a great choice. Your Pitbull English Bulldog mix will have a lot of diversity to draw from regarding their coat color, size, and physical appearance. Some owners say that the Pitbull Bulldog mix is not for the faint-hearted. You will need to commit effort and time to have them trained and properly socialized. Additionally, it might be challenging to raise this crossbreed given it is predisposed to a number of health conditions like heart disease and eye problems. The English Bulldog Pitbull mix likely originated in the s when breeders thought to combine the best traits of Bulldogs and Pitbulls in one. Similar to the case of most mixed breed dogs, the best we can do is familiarize ourselves with the history of both its parent breeds since there is a lack of documentation about their history. The English Bulldog was first bred in the 13th century in England. These dogs were used for bull-baiting and other brutal bloodsports. Today, the English Bully is a refined breed and known to be courageous, loyal, and affectionate. It is widely believed that all dogs classified as Pitbulls today descend from the British Bull and Terrier which were first imported into America in the s. Both parent breeds of the English Bulldog Pitbull mix have had a long history of aggressive fighting blood sports of dogfighting, bear, and baiting bulls , which fortunately has come to an end. Rest assured, your English Bulldog Pitbull mix is now a refined, well-behaved dog. Photo by itznipsey IG English Bulldog Pitbull mixes can come in medium-sized builds and various colors. One thing is for sure, though, this mix will generally appear to be muscular, stout, and medium in size. It will also have that characteristic Pitbull smile we all love and adore. Appearance-wise, this mixed breed is stout and its head is broad and extensive. They also have large jaws, much like their parent breeds. Generally, they have a short snout, but it would be longer if they took after their Pitbull parent. They also have small, semi-pricked ears. An English Bulldog Pitbull mix features an eye color ranging from a dark brown hue to a shade of light amber, just like most bully breeds. They have thick necks and muscular chests, and they appear to have more squats than a regular Pitbull. The legs are well-muscled, long, and slightly hocked like their Bulldog parent. These dogs can have a variety of markings in white or silver colors. They have short and fine coats, in colors including black, tan, red, yellow, gray, golden, cream and white. Note that these are just common observations, and your English Bulldog Pitbull mix may not exactly manifest these features. Since the Pitbull English Bulldog mix is a crossbreed, it can take after its Pitbull parent with a large head and wide jaw, and it may also look more like a Bulldog, with its signature flat and wrinkled face. On average, English Bulldog Pitbull mixes weigh 60 pounds and stand at the height of 18 inches tall. When it comes to their parent breeds, English Bulldogs are about 14 to 15 inches tall, and weighing between 45 and 70 pounds. Meanwhile, Pitbulls are around 18 to 21 inches tall with a weight of 40 to 70 pounds. Typically, male dogs will always be heavier than their female counterparts. Do not worry if your pup is not precisely within the average measurement. Remember that this is just a size estimation, and sometimes, your puppy might still need more time to grow. A vet can also guide you on the nutrients that your companion needs. English Bulldog and Pitbull mixes are known to be sociable and sweet-natured, particularly towards their family members. They can be perfect family pets if given proper training and socialization. Most can be civil and welcoming to strangers. They are careful in their presence, making them excellent family dogs in households with toddlers. As high-energy dogs, they love to play for hours on end! With Other Pets and Dogs: The English Bulldog Pitbull mixes can do well with other dogs and pets such as cats , provided they have the proper socialization and training. However, they can be aggressive towards small animals such as rats, rabbits, or rodents as they may see them as prey. Although some may find English Bulldogs and Pitbulls to be two dangerous and intimidating breeds, their offspring are affectionate and loving. The Pitbull Bulldog mix can be initially wary of new faces and presences, but you will have a lifelong friend in them once you gain their trust! Advantages and Disadvantages of Breeding Pitbulls and English Bulldogs Together Nowadays, crossbreeding remains to be a controversial topic in the canine world. As an English Bulldog Pitbull mix aspiring owner, it is crucial to know the different advantages and disadvantages of breeding English Bulldogs and Pitbulls together. It adds to their appeal as crossbreed dogs. They will be devoted and easy to train. These dogs are always eager to please. They will be good with children. If there are toddlers in your household, the English Bulldog Pitbull mix may become their best friend. These dogs are gentle, patient, and loving with kids. They will have high-energy levels. Expect long hours of playtime with your Pitbull English Bulldog. This mixed breed is an excellent choice for energetic pet owners who love to go outdoors often. You may take them on long walks as well as hikes! Below are some disadvantages of breeding the English Bulldog Pitbull mix: English Bulldog Pitbull mix is banned in some countries. They will be at risk of developing major health problems. There will be quite a few health problems to expect when it comes to the Pitbull English Bulldog mix. The common ones are hip dysplasia, reverse sneezing, thyroid issues, skin issues, heart disease, and eye problems. It would be best to prepare your budget beforehand in the event of any medical emergencies. They can be more expensive than purebreds. Designer dogs are considered a fad in the canine world today. They may have an unpredictable adult size and temperament. It is generally hard to predict the specific behavior or character of mixed-breed dogs. I would advise you to familiarize the personality and size of its parent breeds instead. They may be moderate energy dogs or highly energetic canines. If your dog engages in a lot of activity in a day, giving an extra amount of high-quality dog food will help sustain the energy it needs. Otherwise, only provide an exact amount of serving for your pet who participates in low to medium physical activities. Cleaning and Grooming Thanks to its short and smooth coat, the English Bulldog Pitbull mix is generally easy to clean and groom. Perhaps the only challenge you may encounter while grooming this dog is checking in between the wrinkles if there is still dirt left to clean. Meanwhile, cleaning the ears must be done weekly using cotton balls dipped in ear cleaner to avoid any dirt or ear infection. When it comes to bathing, every once a month will be ideal for preventing dry skin. If, in any case, your pet becomes dirty due to activities, a quick bath will suffice to clean them. A regular groomer appointment will also help you ensure that your dog is always looking clean and healthy. Training and Exercise It is hard for some owners to determine the exercise needs of the Pitbull English Bulldog mix. The English Bulldog often likes to lounge around, which is a striking comparison to energetic and active Pitbulls. Hence, you might want to start with moderate exercise at first. If your new pet starts to show signs of boredom like chewing and other harmful behaviors, you might need to start elevating your exercise routine to a higher level. They can be great guard dogs if you are consistent with this kind of training. However, you should also ensure that you only use positive reinforcement for all your training sessions. If you stumble across this mixed breed through local animal rescues, the cost would be far more cost-effective than what you would typically pay a breeder. It is a good idea to consider if you want to adopt this dog without breaking the bank. A post shared by Camila Cristina bigbabyhaze Life Expectancy Since they are a medium-sized dog, they do have a longer life expectancy compared to a large dog. Hopefully, your mix will live a healthy life up to at least 12 years or more. As mentioned, they can be wary of new faces and strange dogs, but once trust is gained, you have a lifelong friend. They will still have a natural tendency to be protective of their tribe, but most dogs have this trait. English Pitbulls are confident and brave, which can be negative or positive in certain situations. But you will be hard-pressed to find another mix that is more affectionate and loving. If you have kids, they will be like a sibling, as these dogs love to play for hours on end. This mix is fairly easy to train since they are smart and eager to please. Just remember that they respond better to positive reinforcement rather than negative. If you are unsure of the best way to train your English Bulldog and Pitbull mix, consult a certified trainer who has dealt with this mix before to help you and your dog succeed. Generally speaking, Bulldogs have a low to moderate energy level, while Pitbulls are high-energy dogs, so you could have a dog who is in-between or just low or high. You will want to provide well-rounded nutrition, no matter the level of their activity. If you have a high-energy dog, they will need more food throughout the day. High-quality dog food that provides all the needed nutrients is the best to feed your English Bulldog Pitbull mix. Speak with your veterinarian to make sure your dog is receiving the proper nutrition to live a healthy life. Moderate exercise is best to keep your dog trim and fit, but if your dog shows signs of boredom, such as chewing or adopting other bad behaviors, you may need to up your exercise game. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Taking time to train your dog and play will make for a happier and healthier pet. They want to be part of the family and will thrive when involved with activities that include everyone. Use a soft brush on their coat a couple of times per week to keep the fur healthy. Regular grooming appointments will help ensure that you can keep your dog looking their best. Getting regular vet check-ups is an important part of keeping your dog healthy and ensuring that they have a long life. Minor Conditions. In addition, it does not shed like most crossbreeds do, marking for less maintenance and grooming required. Dog owners, especially the new ones, are expected to know more than just the essential traits and appearance of the pups they are choosing. It is likewise crucial for them to consider and recognize that with all excellent characteristics come to not-so-pretty ones, and that should not be a hindrance for them in planning to get one. Purebreds, unlike their crossbreed offspring, are not as healthy, but their crossbreed pups do inherit most of their most potent diseases and medical complications. One precautionary measure duly advised to clients and customers to make sure that disease-inheritance is taken to a minimum, if not appropriately avoided, is to be vigilant and careful in choosing Bulldog Pitbull Mix puppies that are for sale. This is crucial since it ensures that the buyer is making the right and just circumstances that are presented before them. In the bigger picture, the penultimate reason for avoiding such a purchase is that often these companies and pet stores conduct large-scale breeding of dogs. It is a method that is indeed far from being animal-friendly and ethical. In this practice, the health of the parent dog is not duly considered for the offspring. In other words, they breed dogs as they so please without taking health, food, and safety much into consideration. A respectable and reputable breeder is one who is transparent about their methods. It is crucial for you to check if the breeding facility is safe and spacious enough for the animals to roam around and have fun. You can ask them for a copy of the background data of each purebred parent and genetic mapping of the crossbreed offspring for reference. Here are some online sites to get you started on your pup search: Angel Heart Kennel LLC Across the state, you can only fin local breeders and animal shelters. Most likely, in one of these shelters, one might find a Pitbull Bulldog Mix looking for a lovely new home. Try opening www. As such, it is no wonder that the smooth and shiny coat of the Pitbull combined with Bulldog does not shed profusely and does not require high maintenance. Use a soft bristle brush at least once or twice a week, but no more than four days. However, during shedding season, the fur of the Bulldog crossed with Pitbull does shed quite often. When this occurs, it is recommended to brush their hair and coat daily. Instead, one can use a damp washcloth to wipe the dog every now and then. This method can help get rid of some loose fur and keep them clean. The full bath should be given only once a month since their coat needs all the natural oils on the skin. In any case, whether patting them down or bathing, the following vital areas need focus: Foot pads and paws Tail and the region around the anus Eye region, especially the eyelids As a common practice among grooming dogs, teeth brushing is required not only for good oral hygiene but especially for the prevention of irksome dental complications. Regularly check the ears for redness, wax buildup, and nasty ear mites. Note, however, that when trimming, one must practice care and accuracy to avoid complication and infection. The English Bulldog, having a life span of years, has many health concerns than most purebreds. Other dilemmas include hip dysplasia, screw tail, cherry eye, among others. The English Pitbull Terrier is the healthier dog parent in comparison. Also facing possible hip dysplasia concerns, this purebred is known to experience allergies, mange, and skin infections. As such, in an overview of things, the Bulldog mixed with Pitbull requires much medical attention and involves a ton of payment for vet bills. Depending on the favored parent, there is no telling if the crossbreed would face many or fewer complications. Prone to allergies, the Pitbull combined with Bulldog borrows its skin complication from the Pitbull parent. Prevention of these diseases means regular washcloth wiping and avoidance of typical allergen-containing and grainy food. Hip Dysplasia. A significant focus on diet and exercise is enough to help prevent this painful joint displacement. Heart disease. Any bull breed is known to face heart complications such as congenital heart disease among others. There is no sure fire way to prevent it other than early detection and treatment. Once found, divide the meal portions into at least two meals per day with equal serving. You can also incorporate giving of treats and scheduled feedings that and intertwined with free feeding at least once per week to keep things new for the pup. This is to ensure that your dog does not grow into being obese, which raises complication for hip dysplasia. Likewise, the right mix of minerals and vitamins must be consulted with the veterinarian. Depending on their recommendation, incorporate the intake of these supplements either to the food or medicine administration intermittently. For the Bulldog combined with Pitbull, owners should focus on purchasing dog food rich in chronodotin or glucosamine. These nutrients are crucial in preventing hip dysplasia complications. Luckily, the market is filled with high-quality dog food that one can easily find. You can even ask your local pet store or dog food provider for products with these specifications. There are plenty of reasons for this, but one of them has to do with health concerns in purebred dogs. You can learn more about crossbreeding here. As for the English Bulldog Pitbull mix? While the mix itself is pretty new, its ancestors have a history spanning continents and centuries. History of the English Bulldog The English Bulldog is the older of the two breeds, with his roots in the blood sport of bull baiting. His stocky build and wide jaws are the result of that unfortunate origin story. Bulldog enthusiasts began to shape these dogs into gentle companions instead of ferocious fighters, effectively saving the breed from extinction. In fact, a Pitbull is actually more of a type than a breed. Understandably, this has caused some confusion. A study found a significant lack of consistency among animal shelter workers when it came to identifying dogs as Pitbulls. To get a spirited, tough, tenacious dog, those gamblers crossed bulldogs with terriers. Over the next century, all three breeds followed a similar path: they were bred to become gentle, reliable family dogs capable of great athleticism and versatility. Pitbulls can range in height from inches tall, and can weigh anywhere from 35 to 60 pounds. Their shoulders are broad and their legs are strong and muscular. Pitbulls come in virtually any color. Their coats are short and relatively low maintenance. English Bulldogs range from pounds and grow to anywhere from inches tall. They are heavy, sturdy looking dogs, with wrinkled skin, flat faces, and short coats. They come in a range of colors, from fawn to brindle, with a variety of markings possible. So your English Bulldog Pitbull mix has a lot of diversity to draw from when it comes to color, size, and shape. English Bulldog Pitbull Mix Temperament What kind of temperament do you get when you combine these two bullies? English Bulldogs tend to be pretty laid back. With a gentle nature but a strong will. The Bulldog also tends to need less exercise than some other bully breeds. However, this is due largely to their poor general health. Pitbulls are normally keen to please their owners and enthusiastic team players when it comes to their family. These are typically friendly, happy-go-lucky, athletic animals who need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Both breeds are known for being good with children. They also have a bite type that involves holding on, which is more dangerous than the nipping style of many other breeds. The hope is that by combining the high-energy Pitbull with the lackadaisical English Bulldog, the result will be a dog with a balanced temperament and a more manageable energy level. Ideally, the English Bulldog Pitbull mix will have a moderate energy level and a friendly disposition. Once again, though, there are no guarantees. Few dogs have been as seriously misunderstood over the years as the Pitbull. So careful, consistent socialization is especially important with a Pitbull or Pitbull mix. A well-socialized dog can be less likely to develop aggressive tendencies, which can arise out of fear. From the day they arrive home at 8 weeks old, make sure you have lots of visitors to the house. Let them meet people of a range of ages, in a variety of locations. Otherwise, both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls are devoted dogs who want to please. They may benefit from group training classes to help with socialization. Both breeds are heavy chewers and need tough, durable toys throughout their lives to keep them from gnawing on less desirable objects, like your favorite shoes or the dining room table. When it comes to the English Bulldog, there are unfortunately quite a few health concerns. Although his snorting may sound funny, those noises are the result of brachycephaly , which causes serious respiratory problems, dental problems, and severely limits activity levels. Other health concerns the English Bulldog faces include overheating, skin issues ranging from eczema to severe allergies, screw tail , cherry eye, degenerative spine disease, arthritis, idiopathic head tremors, and a higher rate of cancer than any other breed of dog. And not spent as comfortably as the average dog should. Extensive health testing is essential. Their short coats can even make them prone to sunburn. Pitbulls also can develop thyroid issues. And like many medium- to large- sized dogs, they may be prone to hip dysplasia. But it can be a roll of the dice, especially with first-generation crosses. Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls have a reputation for being patient and gentle with children. Any mix of these two breeds can probably be counted on to be a good family dog. Whether or not this mix is right for your family, though, depends on whether or not you can meet his exercise requirements and deal with any future health concerns. Rescuing an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix Rescue dogs often already have some basic training and socialization. A reputable breeder will do health screening tests on their dogs and be able to give you detailed information on the parents and their backgrounds. You should be able to meet the parents of your future puppy and ask any questions you might have about health, temperament, or training. Because health is such a major concern in this mix, asking those questions and doing your research is vital if you want a healthy puppy with a good temperament. You can check out our training guides to help you get on the right track. Black, tan, red, cream, white, grey, and golden Temperament: Energetic, loyal, loving, friendly, hardworking, intelligent Most Suitable For: Families with or without children, active single individuals What Does a English Bulldog Pitbull Mix Look Like? Photo: Instagram Like most designer dog breeds, you can expect that your English Bulldog Pitbull mix to take their physical appearance from both parent breeds — the question of how much of each parent is largely down to chance, and how their genetics mix together. Your English Bulldog Pitbull mix will like to have the short, stocky build of the Pitbull with a broad chest. It may have a slightly longer body than your traditional Pit Bull-Type dogs but will be leaner than your average English Bulldog. It will likely have the floppy, triangular ears of the English Bulldog. Their coat will be single coat and they have may have loose skin, as part of their Olde English Bulldogge heritage. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. It is likely that this crossbreed came to be in the s and early s, when crossbreeding became increasingly popular in the United States. The Old English Bulldog and the Pitbull both have extensive British histories The History of the English Bulldog The English Bulldog is a descendant of mastiff-type dogs that were likely crossbred with a type of Pug that was likely imported from China around the 13th century. The English Bulldog is known as a brachycephalic breed — similar to the Pug — hence the inference that they are likely ancient descendants. The competition would end when the bull collapsed from exhaustion, or the dog was killed. Maintaining their stocky appearance and flat face, the bulldog was also a working military and police dog and became of a national treasure and national emblem during the Second World War in the United Kingdom. The English Bulldog had landed in the United States in the midth century. The English Bulldog is often confused with the Olde English Bulldogge, which is an American dog breed that was developed in the s by American breeder, David Leavitt. In , Bulldogs were the sixth most-popular dog in the United States. Bulldogs are fairly active family pets, though if you obtain an English Bulldog, then expect a less active pet than the American version. The American Bulldog is a taller, leaner dog than the English Bulldog. These were bred as hunting dogs in the American Midwest. Meanwhile, the American Bulldog is also a good family pet, though are more active and require a greater amount of mental stimulation when exercising. English Bulldogs were bred from ancient breeds like the mastiff — hence their loose skin — and the Pug, hence their flat-faced appearance. Today, the English Bulldog is a companion pet to many and has an extensive history in the British Isles as a national mascot of sorts, particularly during the Second World War. The breed standard of the English Bulldog has changed several times throughout its history, although it has maintained a fairly pure bloodline. Given its extensive history in Britain, it is not a common crossbreed in the U. However, in the United States, in the s and early s, there was a crossbreeding craze that led to many mix breeds being created. Among them was the English Bulldog. Popular English Bulldog mixes include:. Cons: The English Bulldog is a breed that originated in England in the 16th century. It was originally bred for bull baiting, a popular form of entertainment in which a bull was tethered to a post, and a dog was released to attack it. English Bulldogs were known for their strength, courage, and tenacity, and they were prized for these qualities in the bull-baiting ring. It was originally bred for pit fighting, a blood sport that involved two dogs being placed in a pit to fight each other. American Pitbull Terriers were known for their athleticism, strength, and courage, and they were prized for these qualities in the pit fighting ring. However, when pit fighting was banned in the United States, the breed was used for other purposes, such as hunting, guarding, and as a companion animal. It needs to be clarified when the English Bulldog Pitbull Mix was first developed. Still, the breed was likely created in the 20th or 21st century due to the increasing popularity of hybrid species. The Bullpit is not a recognized breed by any major kennel club and is not eligible to participate in conformation shows or other AKC-sanctioned events. Generally, these are medium to large-sized dogs with a stocky build and a muscular appearance. They may have the short, wide head and facial wrinkles of an English Bulldog and the short, smooth coat of an American Pitbull Terrier. Their ears may be short and folded, or they may be long and floppy, depending on the traits inherited from their parents. Their tail may be short and stumpy or long and tapered, depending on the traits inherited from their parents. They may also inherit more physical characteristics from one parent breed than the other. English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls can be any color, including black, white, brindle, fawn, red, and more. They may have a solid coat color or a combination of colors. Their coat may be short, smooth, and shiny, or they may be longer and coarser, depending on the traits inherited from their parents. They may also have a variety of markings, such as spots, patches, or a mask. Males are typically larger than females and may weigh up to 70 pounds when fully grown. Conversely, females are usually smaller and may weigh between 30 and 50 pounds when fully grown. It is important to note that the size of an English Bulldog Mixed Pit Bull can also be influenced by factors such as diet, exercise, and genetics. It is also important to remember that each dog is an individual and may have its unique size and weight. Overall, the appearance of an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix can vary greatly, and it is difficult to predict exactly what a Bullpit will look like based on its parent breeds. It is important to remember that each dog is an individual and may have unique physical characteristics. However, some general characteristics may be common in these dogs due to the traits of their parent breeds. English Bulldogs are generally known for being calm, gentle, and affectionate. They are often good with children and can make good family pets. However, they can also be stubborn and require extra patience during training. Pitbulls are generally known for being intelligent, energetic, and loyal. They can be strong-willed and may require firm training and leadership. However, they can also be very loving and make good companions. For example, some may be more laid-back and calm, while others may be more energetic and playful. By learning as much as you can about an English Bulldog Pitbull mix before bringing one home, you can help to ensure that you choose the right dog for your family and lifestyle. The temperament of an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix can vary greatly, as it will depend on the individual dog and the traits it has inherited from its parents. For example, both English Bulldogs and American Pit bull Terriers have a reputation for being loyal and protective of their families. These traits may also be present in an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix. However, it is important to remember that each dog is an individual and may have different personality traits and characteristics. Pitbull Mix English Bulldogs are intelligent and energetic dogs that can be good family pets with the right training and socialization. They may be playful and affectionate with their families and may be good with children if raised with them. However, it is important to remember that these dogs, like all breeds, can be strong-willed and may require firm, consistent training and leadership to ensure that they are well-behaved and well-adjusted. It is important to do thorough research before considering any breed of dog, including a Pitbull Mix English Bulldog, as a pet. It is also important to choose a reputable breeder and to socialize and train your dog properly to ensure that it grows into a well-behaved and well-adjusted family member. Proper socialization and training can help prevent behavioral issues and ensure that your dog is a happy, well-adjusted family member. There are a few things to consider when deciding whether or not to breed an English Bulldog with a Pitbull. First and foremost, it is important to remember that breeding any two animals carries risks and responsibilities and should not be undertaken lightly. Before breeding any two animals, it is important to consider the potential health and temperament issues that may arise in the resulting offspring. Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls are prone to certain genetic health conditions, and breeding two dogs that are carriers of the same congenital disease could result in offspring that are affected by the disease. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly research the health history of both parent breeds and choose the breeding stock free from known genetic health issues. In addition to considering the potential health risks, it is also important to consider the temperament and suitability of both parent breeds as family pets. For example, both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls have a reputation for being loyal and protective of their families, but they can also be strong-willed. As a result, they may require firm, consistent training and leadership to ensure they are well-behaved and well-adjusted. Therefore, it is important to research both parent breeds thoroughly and to consider their individual temperament and suitability as pets before deciding to breed them. Finally, it is important to remember that breeding any two animals carries a significant financial and time commitment. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider whether or not you are prepared to take on the responsibility of breeding and raising a litter of puppies before deciding to mate two animals. Overall, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and responsibilities involved in breeding any two animals, including an English Bulldog and a Pitbull. Choosing a reputable breeder and thoroughly researching the health and temperament of both parent breeds is also important before deciding to breed them. Pitbull English Bulldog Mix Health and Lifespan Pitbull English Bulldog mixes can be prone to certain health problems due to the inherited traits of their parent breeds. Some health issues that English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls may be prone to include: Hip dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint is malformed, leading to pain and difficulty moving. It can be treated with medication, physical therapy, or surgery. Elbow dysplasia: This is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. It can also be treated with medication, physical therapy, or surgery. Breathing problems: Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls can be prone to respiratory issues due to their short snouts and narrow nostrils. This can make it difficult for them to breathe, especially in hot or humid conditions. Allergies: English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls may be prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation, itching, and other symptoms. Eye problems: Both English Bulldogs and Pitbulls can be prone to eye problems such as cataracts, cherry eye, and dry eye. Skin problems: English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls may be prone to skin problems such as allergies, infections, and hot spots. English Bulldog Mixed Pitbulls generally have a lifespan of around 10 to 12 years. By working with a veterinarian and taking good care of your dog, you can help to ensure that they live a long and healthy life. In general, all dogs need to eat a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their specific needs. Diet: Consult with your veterinarian or a professional pet nutritionist to determine the right type and amount of food for your English Bulldog Pitbull mix. Look for a brand that uses real meat or fish as the first ingredient, and avoid those that contain fillers or by-products. This can help prevent bloat, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when a dog eats too much at once. Avoid giving your English Bulldog Pitbull mix table scraps or other unhealthy treats. These can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. Daily walks, runs, or play sessions can keep your dog healthy and happy. Be sure to give your Pitbull Mix English Bulldog plenty of opportunities to play and explore, as this can help to stimulate their mind and prevent boredom. Remember that these dogs may be prone to overheating, so avoiding exercising your dog in extreme heat or humidity is important. This includes obedience training and exposure to a variety of people, places, and situations. This helps ensure that your Pitbull Mix English Bulldog is well-behaved and able to adapt to different environments. Cleaning and Grooming English Bulldog Pitbull mixes will require regular grooming to maintain their coat and overall health. A slicker brush or a comb with wide teeth can be effective. Bath your dog every few months or as needed. Use a mild dog shampoo, and rinse thoroughly to prevent skin irritation. Use a cleaning solution that is specifically made for dogs, and be sure to dry the ears thoroughly after cleaning. Use toothpaste and a toothbrush that is specifically made for dogs. You can help keep your dog looking and feeling its best by providing regular care and attention. Here are some general tips for training an English Bulldog Pitbull Mix: Start training as soon as possible. Use positive reinforcement. This means rewarding your dog with treats, praise, or other rewards when they do something you want them to do. Avoid using punishment or physical force, as these can be harmful and ineffective. Be consistent. Use the same commands and rewards every time so your dog knows what to expect. Practice regularly. This will help to reinforce the behaviors you want your dog to learn. A trainer can provide guidance and support to help you and your English Bulldog Pitbull mix succeed. With time, patience, and consistency, you can help your dog learn the behaviors you want them to have. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and prices can vary widely. For example, some breeders may charge more for English Bulldog Pitbull mixes from champion bloodlines or have certain desirable characteristics, while others may charge less. In addition to the initial purchase price, there are other costs to consider when buying an English Bulldog Pitbull mix puppy. This can help to ensure that they are healthy and to catch any potential health issues early on. Vet expenses may include the cost of the initial visit, vaccines, deworming, spaying or neutering, and other medical care. Training and socialization: Training and socializing your puppy is important for their overall health and well-being. This may involve hiring a professional trainer or enrolling in a training class. By budgeting for these costs and being a responsible pet owner, you can ensure that your pup has everything they need to thrive. However, there are some pros and cons to consider before getting any dog, and this is especially true for mixed breeds. Pros: Mixed breeds can sometimes have the best traits of both parent breeds. For example, English Bulldogs are known for being calm and gentle, while Pitbulls are known for being intelligent and energetic. An English Bulldog Pitbull mix could have a good balance of both traits. Mixed breeds may have a lower risk of inherited health problems. Purebred dogs can be prone to certain genetic conditions due to inbreeding, but mixed breeds may be less likely to develop these issues. Mixed breeds may be more adaptable to different living situations. Cons: It can take time to predict the exact traits that a mixed breed will have. Mixed breeds may be harder to find in shelters or rescue organizations. Many people looking to adopt a dog will search for specific purebreds, so that mixed breeds may be less common in these settings. Mixed breeds may be more prone to behavioral issues. Our website is all about Pitbulls. Mandy Connelly Mandy has lived with pitbulls her whole life, and she has amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge about these magnificent animals. Having had the pleasure of owning and caring for numerous pitbulls over the years, she has come to understand their unique characteristics, behaviors, and needs. Read more.

Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. Our website offers a wide selection of German Shepherd puppies at affordable prices. Our breeders are experienced and knowledgeable about the breed, and they take great care in raising happy and healthy puppies. What is the History of German shepherd puppies German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in the world. They were originally bred in Germany in the late 19th century as working dogs for herding and guarding sheep. However, their intelligence, loyalty, and trainability soon made them ideal for police work, search and rescue, and as family pets. What is the temperament of German shepherds The temperament of German Shepherd puppies is typically described as loyal, intelligent, and protective. They are known to be great with children and make excellent family pets. However, they do require a lot of exercise and training to keep them healthy and well-behaved. In conclusion, German Shepherd puppies are a wonderful breed with a rich history and a loyal temperament. You have found yourself an amazing German Shepherd puppy! 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Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. Your Labrador puppy will need a bed, collar, leash, poop bags, food bowls, food, treats, toys, grooming supplies, and a dog crate. It is important to get any dog licensed to avoid legal issues. Training Labrador Retrievers are easy to train and do not require professional training. But, some keepers choose to take their Lab to puppy school. Because they are highly motivated, Labradors also do great in agility training. This is also a great way for them to use up their energy. Owners can either build their own agility course or pay to put their dog in agility classes. Vet Fees and Insurance One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is all the vet visits. This includes all of their shots and monthly checkups. A way to help reduce the cost of veterinary bills is through buying pet insurance. It is best to start paying for a pet insurance policy when your Labrador is a puppy. Senior dogs are more expensive to cover since they are more likely to develop health problems. Food When it comes to feeding a Labrador, they are not cheap. Labradors eat a lot of food. They are medium to large-sized dogs and weigh around 70 pounds. These prices are based on feeding a high quality kibble. Wet food can easily cost several hundred dollars more. Backyard Breeders One important thing every potential owner should remember is to avoid backyard breeders and pet shops. It is true that these places sell dogs for a much lower price. But, that does not mean they will be cheaper over their lifespan. Backyard breeders do not screen their dogs to determine if they have inheritable health problems. This results in Lab puppies being born that are more likely to develop health issues such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. These breeders also do not provide proper veterinary care for their puppies. Many are sold while having worms or fleas and having received no socialization. Ethical Labrador breeders ensure their breeding stock is screened and their puppies are healthy and socialized before placing them into their new homes. Labrador Retrievers can develop diseases of the eye. The form of this disease that is very common is Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration. Caused by an inheritable genetic mutation, it ultimately leads to blindness. Screening will help to prevent you from buying a puppy that may become blind later on in life. Dogs with this disease will lose their sight between one and eight years of age. Hip and Elbow Scores Another health problem that Labradors are prone to is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a genetic skeletal disease that causes the hip joint to not form properly. This results in the femur grinding against the hip causing deterioration and loss of function. Many Labradors with this condition end up having to undergo surgery to reduce pain and regain function in their hips. The average hip score for a Labrador retriever is 12, so any score below that is considered good. Ideally, good breeders will only breed dogs with hip scores under .This will prevent you from purchasing a Labrador puppy that will require expensive surgery later on in its life. Purpose American Labradors are best suited for active families. Families that enjoy activities such as swimming, running, and hiking. They are great for families with older children who can engage and play with them more. American Labs would also do best with owners who can dedicate more time to them because they require a lot of exercise every day. People who work from home or part time would be ideal. English Labradors would make great pets for quieter families because they have a calmer personality. They are also gentler and would do well with a family that has young children. Since they are less active, they are suitable for a busier family who has less time to exercise them. Their docile, patient attitude also makes them excellent candidates to be service dogs so they would be a great dog for people who need one in their life. Summary The price of a Labrador can vary depending on if you get one from a breeder or rescue. Its color, pedigree and health will also influence the price. All Labradors are prone to health conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and hip or elbow dysplasia. Make sure the breeder screens for these health conditions before breeding. This will help to ensure your puppy is healthy. The cost to keep a Labrador healthy, exercised and happy can get pricey. But, if an owner has done their research and prepared themselves, then Labradors make an excellent addition. What Lab do you prefer? American, English, or mixed? Let us know! He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like.

Breeds The link has been copied! Pugs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and for good reason. Their small size, affectionate nature, and adorable looks make them the perfect companion for many people. Pugs are adorable small dogs with wrinkly faces, short legs, and curly tails. They are known for their charming personality, playful nature, and loyalty. One of the most interesting things about pugs is the variety of colors that they come in. In this article, we will explore the different pug colors, what they mean, and how to choose the perfect pug color for you. The History of Pug Colors The history of pug colors is a fascinating one. Originally, pugs were bred in China, where they were known as "lo-sze. When pugs were brought to Europe in the 16th century, breeders began to experiment with different colors. Today, pugs come in a wide range of colors, including fawn, black, silver, apricot, and more. Understanding Pug Coat Colors Pug coat colors can be divided into three categories: solid, brindle, and pied. Solid colors are the most common and include fawn, black, silver, apricot, and cream. Brindle pugs have a mix of black and fawn hairs, giving them a unique striped appearance. Pied pugs have a white coat with patches of another color, such as fawn or black. Before we dive into the specific colors of pugs, it's important to understand how coat color works in dogs. Pugs, like many other breeds, have a set of genes that determine their coat color. These genes control the amount and type of pigments produced by the hair follicles. Depending on the combination of these genes, a pug can have a solid color, a combination of colors, or even a pattern. Choosing the Perfect Pug Color for You Choosing the perfect pug color is a personal decision that depends on a variety of factors. Some people prefer the classic look of a fawn or black pug, while others are drawn to the unique appearance of a brindle or pied pug. It's important to remember that pug color doesn't affect their personality or behavior, so choose the color that you find most appealing. We described some of the most popular Pug colors that help you to understand and choose the perfect Pug Color for You. Fawn Pugs Fawn pugs are a classic and beloved variation of the pug breed, characterized by their warm, golden coat. Their friendly personalities and easy-going nature make them a popular choice for families and individuals looking for a loyal and affectionate pet. Fawn pugs are one of the most common pug colors. In terms of personality, fawn pugs are known for their playful and outgoing nature. They are social dogs that love to be around people and enjoy spending time with their families. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, which makes them a popular choice for obedience competitions and dog sports. One of the benefits of owning a fawn pug is that they are generally healthy and don't suffer from any specific health issues related to their coat color. However, like all pugs, they are prone to certain health problems such as respiratory issues, skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Fawn pugs also require regular grooming to maintain their coat's health and shine. Regular brushing can help remove loose hair and debris, preventing matting and skin irritation. If you're considering getting a fawn pug, it's necessary to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. You should also be prepared to give your pug plenty of attention, exercise, and training, as they thrive on human interaction and stimulation. In conclusion, fawn pugs are a classic and beloved variation of the pug breed that is known for their friendly personalities and trainability. While they require regular grooming and may be prone to specific health issues, they can make great pets for families and individuals alike. This Pug is fun. Black Pugs Black pugs are a popular and beloved variation of the pug breed, characterized by a solid black coat. Their striking appearance and charming personalities make them a popular choice for families and individuals looking for a loyal and affectionate pet. In terms of personality, black pugs are known for their playful and friendly nature. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, which makes them a popular choice for obedience competitions and agility events. One of the benefits of owning a black pug is that they are generally healthy and don't suffer from any specific health issues related to their coat color. However, like all pugs, they are prone to certain health problems such as respiratory issues and skin allergies. Black pugs are also prone to obesity, so it's essential to keep them on a healthy diet and exercise routine. Black pugs also require regular grooming to maintain their coat's health and shine. If you're considering getting a black pug, it's critical to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Silver Pugs Silver pugs are a rare color variation of the pug breed, characterized by a light silver or gray coat. This color variation is caused by a dilution gene that affects the pigmentation of the dog's fur, resulting in a unique and eye-catching appearance. While silver pugs are rare and often sought after by collectors, they are not recognized by major kennel clubs as a distinct breed color. However, this does not diminish their unique appeal and charm. In terms of personality, silver pugs are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. They are intelligent, social dogs that love to be around people and thrive on human interaction. This makes them great pets for families and individuals who are looking for a loyal and loving companion. However, like all pugs, silver pugs are prone to typical health issues, including respiratory problems, hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and sensitivity to sunlight. It's important for potential owners to be aware of these health risks and to take the necessary precautions to keep their silver pug healthy and happy. If you're considering getting a silver pug, it's crucial to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Brindle Pugs Brindle pugs are a distinctive color variation of the pug breed, with a coat that features a mix of dark and light stripes. This unique coat pattern can vary in intensity and color, ranging from light brown to deep black, and can create a striking and eye-catching appearance. Brindle pugs are known for their playful and energetic personalities, making them great pets for families with children. One of the benefits of owning a brindle pug is that they are generally healthy and don't suffer from any specific health issues related to their coat color. However, like all pugs, they are prone to distinctive health problems such as respiratory issues, joint dysplasia, and skin allergies. Brindle pugs also require regular grooming to maintain their coat's health and shine. If you're considering getting a brindle pug, it's essential to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Albino Pugs Albino pugs are a rare variation of the pug breed that have a white coat and pink eyes, nose, and paw pads. This is due to a lack of pigmentation in their skin, hair, and eyes, which can cause them to be more sensitive to sunlight and other environmental factors. Although albino pugs are unique and eye-catching, they are also more prone to certain health issues compared to other pug colors. Albino dogs are more likely to develop skin cancer and sunburn, as well as eye problems such as cataracts and vision loss. Albino dogs may benefit from wearing dog goggles to protect their eyes. Albino pugs also have a higher risk of deafness, which can be a result of the same genetic mutation that causes their lack of pigmentation. This can be a challenge for owners, as deaf dogs require special training and communication methods. Despite these challenges, many people still choose to adopt or purchase albino pugs because of their striking appearance and affectionate personalities. Albino pugs are known for their friendly and loving nature, and they can make great companions for families and individuals alike. It's important to note that albino pugs should always be protected from the sun and other environmental factors that can harm their skin and eyes. They should also receive regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their health and detect any potential issues early on. Apricot Pugs Apricot pugs are a unique and rare variation of the pug breed, known for their beautiful apricot-colored coat. These pugs have a gentle and affectionate temperament, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. In terms of personality, apricot pugs are known for being playful, outgoing, and sociable. They love spending time with their owners and enjoy being around other pets and children. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them a great choice for obedience competitions and agility events. While apricot pugs are generally healthy, they may be more prone to certain health issues such as skin allergies and respiratory problems. It's important to keep their coat clean and groomed to prevent any skin irritation or infections. Apricot pugs require regular exercise to maintain their health and energy levels. This can include daily walks, playtime in the yard, or indoor activities such as puzzle toys and training sessions. They also enjoy mental stimulation, so providing them with challenging toys and games can help keep them happy and engaged. If you're interested in getting an apricot pug, it's important to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. You should also be ready to give your pug plenty of attention, love, and training to help them thrive. Other Pug Colors Aside from the main colors mentioned above, there are other less common colors for pugs. It can have implications for their health and well-being, as well as their aesthetic appeal. Every color pug, with their unique and elegant appearance, is a highly coveted color variation of their beloved breed. However, it's important to remember that personality and compatibility should be the primary factors when choosing a pet, regardless of their color. As with any breed of dog, it's crucial to consider the responsibilities and commitments of pet ownership before making a decision. By doing so, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for both you and your furry friend. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Final Thoughts The Ideal Pug Owner Before jumping straight into the different Pug dog colors, let's look at this toy breed in more detail and see if you would be the right fit. As mentioned before, this is such a dainty breed; they're perfect for an apartment. If you know an older person who wants company, they're even better suited! Unlike some dogs, most Pugs only require one hour of exercise daily. This can be achieved through play or a walk. Their playful personality makes them great entertainment for kids, and they are highly affectionate. If you're the type of person who loves to kick back and watch Netflix, then a pug will easily climb into your lap for a cuddle. They do have some comical moments and sleep a lot when they get older, being relatively low maintenance. However, their coat sheds regularly and requires frequent grooming every 6 weeks. So, if you suffer from allergies, especially dog hairs, the Pug breed may not be the best to have in your home. They also state the unrecognized clubs for competitions also. All The Pug Colors Many more Pug colors exist in addition to the ones recognized by the kennel clubs, which are: Black Black pugs have a dark rich coat that is solid in color. They also have a black mask, ears, and nose also. Sometimes there may be small white markings that occur on their chest, but this does not always happen. When a black Pug ages, it may be prone to having gray hairs on its face or body. For a Pug to have a black coat, only one of its parents must carry the black gene. Unlike some genes, black is the most dominant gene and overpowers other colors. However, black Pugs are the second most popular coat type, first is fawn. Fawn Out of all the Pug colors, fawn is the most common. To describe this color, it closely resembles a lightly toasted marshmallow or a milky coffee. A fawn Pug is not always solid; there can be slight variances. Sometimes fawn Pugs can have a stripe of hairs that are black on their tips, running down the back that break away the fawn color. This is because Fawn pugs can have coat color temperatures ranging from light to medium. The major difference between an Apricot Pug and a fawn Pug is the orange in their coats. Often they will have richer orange hues that are deeper than the ones seen in a fawn coat. This color contains a shiny gray sheen on the coat and is also the lightest coat color for a Pug. Many kennel clubs do not recognize the silver fawn Pug, so they may request the Pug to be registered under fawn. White A post shared by Truffle the White Pug trufflethewhitepug In extremely rare situations, you may come across a white Pug. If you do find this, then the Pug is most likely to be an Albino. They will have a light pink nose, paws, lips, and ears alongside their coat. Their coat hair will look in between white and cream. On the contrary, white Pugs may also exist due to a genetic mutation called Leucism, making the melanin in their DNA difficult to form. These colors tend to be black, ranging to grey, and are often seen in other dog breeds like the American Bull Dog, Boxer, and Bull Terrier. Compared to other Pug colors, this coat is not accepted and is often heavily disqualified in the show ring. Like a Panda, they have a smooth black and white coat. This coat color is believed to be created by a Pekingnese and a Pug. However, this coat color is rare, and many breeders will charge extremely high prices for them. Merle A post shared by Rebecca Schmidt happypug. They also have patches of blueish grey and blue in the coat. As opposed to coat color, merle is more like a pattern seen in the coat. Often Merle Pugs are not purebred and are associated with many health problems like hearing impairments, hip dysplasia, skin infections, vision impairments, and risk of skin cancer. Pug Dog Colors Overview Pugs can be found in four major colors, though not all are standard colors with certain kennel clubs. The two most common colors are fawn and black. Silver and apricot can also be seen with this breed, and while not standard colors per the AKC, these colors are indeed recognized by the FCI and other kennel clubs. Brindle Pugs do exist, though this is not without some controversy. All non-black Pugs have black masks and black ears. There are some unique color markings that can appear on Pugs which include the trace and the thumbprint, found only on non-black Pugs. This section will cover all of the details regarding Pug colors, both standard and alternate, as well as various markings and other color-related elements. But, of course, since other colors exist, an AKC Pug can be silver also known as silver-fawn , apricot also known as apricot-fawn , or even the rare and controversial brindle. If you have a Pug with a non-standard color silver-fawn, apricot, or even brindle , as of the time of this writing, if you register your Pug via postal mail not online and send in photos of your Pug that clearly shows the non-standard coat, the AKC will usually grant you a registration with the appropriate color or pattern listed as an alternate color. Though a Pug of any color can be registered, this does not mean the color is accepted in the show ring. For AKC conformation events, any color other than fawn or black is a disqualification. It should be noted that the AKC, which follows the guidelines set forth by the Pug Dog Club of America, used to accept both silver and apricot-fawn. If you are in the US, where most Pugs are either fawn or black, keep in mind that owners from 27 countries took part in the survey. Other well-recognized kennel clubs such as the FCI and KC make this much easier, since they accept apricot and silver coat colors in the show ring. And, the CKC allows distinction between fawn and sliver, by having 'silver-fawn' as an option. With these clubs, fawn is a light to medium cream. However, because the AKC will register a fawn as a fawn and an apricot or a silver as a fawn because they are non-black Pugs , but can also grant a registration for an apricot or silver to be as such via an alternate color, an AKC fawn Pug may truly be a fawn ranging from light cream to medium cream or technically be a silver or apricot more ahead on these colors. All non-black Pugs, including fawn, have black ears and black masks more ahead on this. Variances: Fawns are not always solid, there are variances in the coat. Many Pugs have a trace which is a stripe of back-tipped hairs running down the back that break up the fawn color. And, it is not uncommon for two shades of fawn to be seen within one coat; for example, a light cream fawn can blend into a light apricot-fawn. The wrinkles on a Pug are also responsible for color variances since a thumbprint may be present which is black fur in the creases and folds of the forehead. AKC Color Disqualification: Though fawn has a range of light to medium, the AKC does make it clear that anything other than fawn or black is a disqualification in the show ring. This refers to not only what the registration papers say but by what color is seen in person during the competition. Since there is sometimes a blurred line between silver and fawn or apricot and fawn, this can make things tricky. These colors are found all throughout the world, but in the US, show breeders focus on keeping the fawn a fawn without silver or apricot tones. Examples of Fawn Pugs: Dubi at 6 years old, a fawn Pug photo courtesy of Carmina Bautista Poppy, at 4 months old, a Pug with a combination of light and medium fawns photo courtesy of Maria Silver Fawn and Silver Overview: This is a color that is not overly common with Pugs; though, many owners of silver or silver fawn Pugs can easily be labeling their dogs as fawn, especially if that is what the registration papers state. Because, as the name implies, silver fawn is a type of fawn. It is very light and is in fact the lightest color that a Pug can be. The AKC does not recognize this as a standard color, but may grant a request for a silver-fawn Pug to be registered as such via an alternate color, and if so, generally only responds to requests that are sent via postal mail. Both the FCI and KC allow for silver and the CKC allows for silver-fawn; both are essentially the same coat color but are referred to with these different terms. With some other breeds, this sort of orange hue is referred to as fawn like with Boxers or as orange like with Pomeranians. But, with Pugs, this is a nice, shiny orange hue that is set apart from the more common fawn coat. It is very common for apricot Pugs to not be fully apricot; there may be some fawn or even an almost white color found in patches, most often on the chest. Though, just like silver or silver fawn, this is also a color that may be present in the coat, but owners refer to their Pugs as simply 'fawn', especially if that is what the registration papers deem the Pug to be. And, just like other non-standard AKC colors, an apricot Pug may be registered as a fawn or as an apricot if the owner requests for this alternate coloring to appear on the document. With the CKC, apricot is not its own color, but rather their definition of fawn includes all shades in the fawn family including light to deep apricot. Apricot Pugs have black masks and black ears. And, just like all non-black Pugs, a trace and a thumbprint are desired in the show ring of all well-recognized kennel clubs. Example of an Apricot Pug: Peggie, at 4 years old, a registered apricot Pug photo courtesy of Susi R Ludlow Black Pugs Overview: It is rather amazing how very different the two main colors of Pugs are; fawn is a very light cream with black ears and mask, and black Pugs are just about the complete opposite with a rich, dark black coat. Of course, the ears and mask are black too, but there is no discernible difference since the entire Pug is black. Many black Pugs have solid coats, but it is possible for there to be a small white marking; if this is present, it is usually on the chest. As Pugs age into their senior years, gray hairs may appear on the face or in different areas of the body and this is much more noticeable with black Pugs. Examples of Black Pugs: Henry, at 10 months old photo courtesy of Maxine Aird Pearl photo courtesy of Saz Race Wonder how much exercise Pugs need and how to keep activity safe for this brachycephalic breed? Check out Pug Dog Exercise. Brindle Pugs Overview: Brindle is a pattern of interlocking light and dark colors which creates a striping effect. With Pugs, this is typically in the grey to black range. This type of coat pattern is found with quite a few other dog breeds including the Bull Terrier, Boxer, and American Bulldog. The Debate: Many wonder if a purebred brindle Pug can even exist. The answer is yes. This said, there are some explanations to be given. On one hand is the argument that brindle does not exist within the Pug's bloodline. It is true that this is not a color pattern that should be seen with today's breeding programs since it is not a standard color. One of the goals of reputable breeders is to produce dogs that come as close to breed standards as possible. So, brindle is not something that most breeders would strive for and any champion dogs would not have recessive brindle genes. But, did brindle appear in the bloodline at some point in the past? The answer is, yes, it very well could have. This goes back, in part, to the fact that every single dog breed that exists to day was developed from the pairing of other breeds. As to which breeds, exactly, were used to develop the Pug is unknown. We know that this breed was developed in China. Somewhere around B. And he was indeed successful. Therefore, the first element to note is that no one can say if, looking back, brindle is or is not found in the Pug's bloodline. In fact, paintings from the 's show Pug dogs with brindle coats. This said, those brindle lines most likely died out. It has also been debated that brindle Pugs are a myth since the gene responsible for the pattern is dominant and would 'take over' the entire Pug breed with eventually only brindles existing, making fawns and black obsolete. But, that point is not accurate. Brindle exists in other breeds and does not take over. One example is the Boxer dog in which there are both brindles and fawns. So, if there are brindle Pugs, however rare, where does the brindle come from? The answer is that brindle was introduced into the bloodline via another breed at some point. For each individual Pug, this could be recent or it could be many generations in the past. This may seem contradictory. As time goes by, a random brindle is thrown every now and then. Examples of Brindle Pugs: Luna at 8 months old, a brindle Pug photo courtesy of Brenda photo courtesy of Mike Dillow Color Changes It is normal for a Pug puppy's coat to change coat color to a certain degree as he or she is maturing from pup to adolescent. With fawn Pugs, the coat may lighten or darken, predominately during the first year. It's not uncommon for there to be smuttiness at a young age which is the term for black hairs intermingled with a light color coat. This may remain, lighten, darken, or fade in other areas except for a line running down the center of the back which is known as a trace. The ears and mask may darken into a more solid black as a Pug grows. For example, here we see Yoda as a young puppy first photo below on mobile with a fawn base and lots of black hairs running through the coat referred to as smuttiness - details ahead. And, then we can see Yoda as a 3-year-old adult Pug second photo below on mobile , the fawn is much lighter and the black-tipped hairs are now a much more faded trace that runs down her back. The black mask has darkened and her head wrinkles are fully developed. There can be other color changes as well. Apricot tones may not appear until a Pug is a bit older; so, a Pug that is registered as a fawn may very well be an apricot. Another change that typically happens with black Pugs, but may also be seen on some fawns, is that hairs around the muzzle and face may gray as a Pug transitions into the senior years. If this occurs, it is generally starts around the 8 year mark and increases in time. Wondering how much sleep a Pug needs and ways to help this breed achieve a good night's rest? Check out Pug Dog Sleep. Smuttiness If you take a very closeup look at a light-colored Pug, you may see a scattering of a few black hairs over the body and this is generally not enough to classified a Pug has having smuttiness. Smuttiness on a Pug refers to a noticeable overlay of black hairs on a light coat fawn, silver, silver-fawn, apricot, or apricot-fawn. These patches of black hairs are thin enough to see the lighter hairs underneath, however it gives an overall appearance of a "haze". The more there is, either in density or coverage, the more smuttiness a Pug has. Note that black or darker hairs are desired in certain places on a Pug; running down the center of the back the trace and on the forehead the thumbprint - more ahead on both of these markings. But, when there is an overabundance of these black hairs in areas other than the forehead wrinkles or the back, the term smuttiness is then used. Smuttiness may appear in just about any area on a Pug including the saddle back , flanks, legs, and head. In the show world, this is not a disqualification, however it is considered to be a fault points are deducted. Example of Smuttiness on a Pug: Winston at 11 years old; this is an example of heavy smuttiness on the head. Though not something rewarded for in the show ring, there is no denying how cute this Pug looks. In fact, this is such a heavy intermingling of black hairs that Winston almost looks like a half fawn and half black Pug dog. The trace may begin on the nape of the neck or further down the back. It will run in a predominantly straight line, ending at the base of the tail. The thickness and the density of the trace can vary. Though a trace is a very desired trait in conformation dog shows, not all non-black Pugs have this marking. A trace may be very apparent during the puppy years and then fade as a Pug matures. On the flip side, this marking may not show at all during the newborn phase and then become apparent as the Pug grows. This particular element is considered to be an official marking of the breed and is thought to give Pugs character. In the show ring, the blacker the trace, the better. That said, if your Pug does not have a trace, this is nothing to be concerned about. If, however, when Pugs are being considered for a breeding program with the goal of producing show quality dogs, those with no trace at all are often excluded since this is a heredity trait. Example of a Trace on a Pug: Do you have a Pug and are worried about leaving them home alone? Find helpful tips for Pug Dog Separation Anxiety. The Thumbprint A Pug's thumbprint, also referred to as a thumb mark or diamond, is a darkened spot centered on the forehead. This, of course, is not seen on Pugs with black coats. Though this is another desired trait when Pugs are judged in conformation events, not all non-black Pugs have a thumbprint. Another way to look at this is that approximately 3 out of 4 non-black Pugs have a thumbprint or thumb mark. Though it is sometimes called a diamond, it may resemble an oval, a circle, or be an irregular shape. While the wrinkles on the forehead can cause shading that may appear to be a thumb mark, the thumb mark is actually a splash of darker color on the fur. This type of marking is usually present at birth. It is rare for a Pug born without this to develop one as he ages. When a young pup has a small thumbprint marking, it may grow larger or become darker as a Pug ages and matures. Example of a Thumbprint on a Pug: This is Tommy, a Pug with a nice thumbprint on his deep forehead wrinkles. This is an area of black that typically starts under the chin, covers the muzzle, and extends around the eyes. Though this is the general description, the mask can vary quite a bit on Pugs. One element to take note of is that the black may be mainly on the muzzle and then again with black fur around the eyes with little connection between the two points or, quite contrary to that, black may extend from the muzzle to the eye area with no interruption at all. In addition, while a very dark black mask is desired in the conformation show ring, the black mask on some Pugs may contain any number of fawn or lighter-colored hairs. This can range from medium to dark brown and eyes can be so dark that they almost appear black. With canine breed standards, the term dark means dark brown. Coat color does not affect eye color; for example, a fawn Pug does not automatically have lighter eyes than a black Pug. You may be curious to know if Pugs can have blue eyes. Blue is not in this breed's genetic code. However, similar to humans, dogs are usually born with dark blue eyes due to low levels of melanin in the eyes. The eyes darken as melanin levels naturally increase. This transition is usually complete by week six or seven. White Paws Can a Pug have mitted, white paws? The term 'mitted' is often used with cats since it is much more common for felines to have this type of color marking. It refers to coloring that falls on the paws that is different than the main body color, as if the animal is wearing mittens. White paws on a Pug is not common at all and is considered a major fault in the show ring; however, it can happen. This Pug below has a fawn coat and white markings on the paws and on the chest. Both photos are of Mr. Mittens, at 3 months old; photos courtesy of Suzanne White markings like this are able to exist due to the parti-factor gene. This very same color gene is responsible for small white markings on the chest that are occasionally seen with Pugs of all colors. Rarely, the parti-factor is thrown to one, some, or all paws, resulting in purebred Pugs with white mitted paws. Are you taking care of your Pug's teeth? For this brachycephalic breed, dental care is very important. Learn how to keep your Pug's teeth clean and healthy. Behavior and Personality Traits Based on Color Many people wonder if there are inbred character traits that vary depending on the coat color of the Pug. As with any other breed, the coloring of the coat has no effect on energy level, personality, behavioral quirks or any other element. But, it is easy to leap to the belief that color matters in this regard. An owner may have a black Pug that is more energetic than his fawn counterpart, for example. However, there are just as many owners who have energetic fawns compared to laid back black Pugs. Each dog is an individual, and Pugs will have their own unique personalities, regardless of coat color. Differences in Coat and Shedding Most Pugs have coats consisting of two layers of fur, an inner and an outer coat. Some, but not all black Pugs are single coated. For this reason, a percentage of black coated Pugs may shed less in comparison to fawn, apricots or slivers. And, the color of your carpeting and furniture can affect how much shedding you notice. Fur that sheds from a black Pug onto light-colored surfaces is going to be much more noticeable than fur that falls from a fawn Pug. And, fur that sheds from a fawn Pug onto dark surfaces is going to be much more visible than fur that falls from a black Pug. Though it's not suggested to buy furniture and flooring that matches your Pug, this is something to keep in mind. Did you find this to be informative? See what's inside. Related: Black Pug Dogs - More photos of black Pug puppies and dogs with a recap of color information. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Can a non-standard colored pug still be registered with a kennel club? For example: the AKC recognizes two pug colors as breed standard, fawn and black. These are the colors required for a pug to be a show dog and compete in the ring. They are the breed standard. However, a non-fawn or black pug can still be AKC registered — they will just not be allowed in the show ring. Silver-fawn, apricot, and even rare and controversial colors like brindle, can be registered with the AKC and listed as an alternate color. So, if you see a non-standard colored pug listed as registered with the AKC, it is entirely possible. You can read it here. The pug breed standard is the blueprint for the breed, and the target for which breeders should aim. The Pug Dog Club of America firmly states that: All reputable breeders of pugs are not interested in the development of any color of pug other than fawn or black. The most common pug colors: Fawn Pug Fawn is the most common pug color. Their muzzle or mask, and ears, should be as black as possible. Black Pug Even though fawn is the most common color of pug, the black gene is dominant. Black pugs have a rich, dark coat, and their muzzle or mask, and ears are black too. Silver-fawn and Silver Pugs Silver-fawn is oftentimes labeled as a type of fawn. They have a shiny gray sheen to their coats and are the lightest color a pug can be. Silver-fawn pugs are pretty rare, and many who have them categorize them as fawns, instead of silver-fawns. Apricot Pugs Apricot pugs have warm undertones of orange in their coats. The hues of orange are richer and deeper in color than the common fawn coloring. They include:.

Are these dogs good for families? The Pug Pitbull Mix is a great family dog. They are loving and affectionate, and they love to be around people. They are also very loyal, which makes them great protectors. You may like: Border collie pitbull. Do these dogs do well with other pets? The Pug Pitbull Mix does well with other pets if socialized early on. The Pug Pit is a good companion for other dogs. They are friendly and love to play in the park with their furry friend. What is the life expectancy of these dogs? The Pug Pitbull Mix has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. Height and weight. The Pugbull will grow taller than its Pugparent, and a fully grown Pugbull can be approximately inches tall. They are slightly heavier than a Pug and lighter than a Pitbull. They can be expected to weigh between 25 and 30 pounds. Pug Pit puppies have shorter legs than their bodies. The Pug Pitbull Mix needs a moderate amount of exercise. A short walk or play session will suffice. You may like: Chow chow pitbull mix. Do These Dogs Shed a Lot? The Pug Pitbull Mix is a moderate shedder. They will shed more during the spring and fall, but regular brushing can help to reduce the amount of shedding. How much do these dogs eat? The Pitbull Pug Mix should eat about 2 to 3 cups per day, divided into two meals. You may like: Beagle pitbull mix, How much do these dogs cost? Pitbull Pug mix breed can make a great family dog, because they are loving, affectionate, and loyal. They are also easy to train due to their intelligence. These Pug pitbull mixes pups are full of energy and love to play. They need plenty of exercise and should be taken on daily walks. Their short snouts can have difficulty breathing in hot weather, so it is important to keep them cool during the summer months. Pug Pitbull Mixes are intelligent dogs and can be easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and treat-based training methods. Like all dogs, they need early socialization to ensure they grow up to be confident and well-rounded adults. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior. Photo by puppingtonpalace IG For first-time dog owners or experienced fur parents alike, finding a reputable breeder who can help you with your search for designer dogs is a common problem. With all the puppy listings that you can find online, it will be challenging to identify a credible Pitbull Pug mix breeder from a puppy mill or a backyard breeder. You can contact any of them and ask if they can recommend a breeder that offers a Pug Pit. Keystone Puppies — Keystone Puppies is another online advertising source that offers a great selection of canines. They can help you connect with trustworthy Pitbull Pug breeders in the United States. Greenfield Puppies — Launched in , Greenfield Puppies is another credible website that strictly monitors breeders listing pups on their platform. With their convenient search options, you can filter dogs according to their size, location, and price. Unfortunately, not all breeders that you can find online are trustworthy. To protect yourself from getting scammed when buying online, be sure to read our ultimate puppy buying guide. They offer a wide variety of dogs, and you may be able to find a Pug Pit here. Visit their website to see if they have an available Pugbull that you can adopt. They host meet-and-greet events from time to time as an opportunity to show that their canines are ready to be adopted. For additional places to look for a Pit Pug, visit our lists of reliable Pug rescues and Pitbull shelters that are on the mission to find homes for these superb dogs. Adopting a canine can be a fulfilling experience, but first, you need to go through a strict and tedious process. To help you ace your application, read our ultimate guide to dog adoption. The Pug Pitbull mix offers the following advantages: Unique appearance: If you choose to go for a mixed breed, you will have a rare, unique-looking pup. This hybrid has a low to moderate shedding rate and requires regular brushing and occasional bathing. Reliable companions: When properly exercised, cared for, and trained, Pitbull Pug mixes make excellent family dogs for households with kids and even with other pets. Usually, having a fur baby can be like a little furry prescription for improved health and well-being for owners. There are plenty of reasons to love Pug Pits, but there are some downsides as well. The disadvantages of mixing Pugs and Pitbulls are the following: May develop genetic health issues: Both Pugs and Pits are prone to major health conditions such as elbow and hip dysplasia, heart diseases, skin-related issues, and cataracts. Sadly, Pitbull Pug puppies are likely to inherit these concerning problems. Their Pit parents hate to be left alone for long periods, so their mixed offspring might feel the same. Once they get bored, you might be shocked to find out that your favorite shoes, furniture, or other valuable things could get chewed up. Ultimately, your decision will also vary depending on your lifestyle. It can become a heavy responsibility, so be sure to weigh the pros and cons before bringing a Pug-a-Pit mix into your life. However, you also need to make sure to train this dog early on. How much is a PugPit puppy? The lower demand for pitbulls in America reduces the price of a PugPit puppy by a little bit. Keep your eyes open for PugPit adoptions too, because many families will get one and not train them, then wonder why their new PugPit mix is being overly protective and aggressive towards strangers. Food Cost: The average PugPit will eat about 1. Insurance: We recommend every dog has health insurance. If you find you can not afford pet health insurance, please try to get your PugPit puppy insured for the first year or two. That is when they are the most curious. We recommend TruPanion, because they are easy to communicate with. Though you probably don't need to send your PugPit to the groomer, you should budget to send them to puppy school. This can be a little pricey but you will save a lot of headaches with some early obedience training! There are usually only puppies in a PugPit litter depending if the mom is a pug or a pitbull. An average Pitbull can have up to 10 puppies in a litter! Meanwhile a Pug usually only has puppies at a time. The PugPit puppies are known for playfulness, jealousy, and being extremely to their pack. Pug Pitbull Mix puppies will grow extremely loyal and bond with their owners very quickly. They are extremely smart and eager to please. Please visit the breeder and poke around first! Find a responsible breeder. A good PugPit breeder will have a spacious clean home. They should be transparent and open. Good PugPit Mix breeders will want to meet you in person. They will also specialize in only one or two mix breeds. FaceTime is usually a good way to check the PugPit puppies living conditions if they are far away. Skin Problems - Both pitbulls and pugs are prone to skin infections. See grooming tips to help avoid this! Tracheal Collapse - Though uncommon, this is still possible. Minor Eye Problems like cataracts, retinal dysplasia, or corneal dystrophy Hip Dysplasia - when the hip ball becomes dislocated. Because they are extremely agile and powerful they have gotten a bad rap for being overly aggressive. This is untrue and when properly loved and obedience trained, the Pitbull makes for an amazing pet. They are single-minded animals and whatever they set out to do, they will accomplish! Lifespan Sociability If you are interested in one of these adorable pups, you will find an active, snarling, rambunctious puppy much like any other young dog. Bred from two purebred canines, the hybrid Pug Pit is best described by looking at their parents. For example, the American Pitbull Terrier is an active, intelligent, and loyal breed that has had a bad rep for being aggressive. Once used as a fighting dog, this breed is not likely to attack or bite a human. Instead, they love to cuddle, be part of the group, and play. On the Pug side, you will find another intelligent and loyal dog that is playful, friendly, and sweet. When you combine these two breeds, you end up with a puppy that is eager to play, cuddle on your lap, and go for rides. They also need to be trained as early as possible. As both of their parents can have a stubborn streak, you will need to have a lot of patience and kindness. If you are a new pet parent, this pooch might not be the best candidate for you. Usually, they are smaller in the body than a Pit but larger than a Pug making them an average or medium size dog. Accommodations When you think of a Pitbull, you typically think of needing a lot of space for them to stretch their legs. The Pug Pit has an average energy level, and they will be comfortable in a house, condo, or apartment as long as they get proper exercise. This leads to a dog that is intelligent, quick to learn, and very comfortable sitting on your regardless of their size! First, they are very loyal and protective. Any strangers that come unannounced will not be met with a wagging tail. That being said, they are not known to be aggressive. Instead, you will get a bark and perhaps a growl. Although they are not aggressive and unlikely to bite, their Pitbull nature gives them a bit of a prey drive. In that sense, they will chase smaller animals. That being said, they will also protect you from other animals including strange dogs. Of course, they react the same way to a balloon, paper towel, or anything else they feel is suspicious. Outside of that, these pups are sweet, gentle, and loving. Their fearless nature also helps in their protective instincts. Something else you should note about this pooch is their stubbornness. Both of their parents have this trait. They will need to be treated with firm kindness with a strong alpha leader; hence they are not recommended for the novice. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They enjoy the general chaos of a large family with kids. They are also good with kids of all ages. They will become very protective of children, as well. However, socializing your dog in their puppy years is important for a well-rounded pet. This is a medium-sized dog that can knock a kid over by accident, too. Single Families On the other hand, this pooch will do well with a single-person household. They will become very attached to their owner and be more protective than ever. If you are single, it is even more important that you properly socialize your Pug Pit. This is one instance where they can have some social and separation anxiety. Getting them used to other people and pets will help them feel more confident on their own and in mixed company. That being said, the Pug Pit is usually better off as the only dog. They can have some territorial and jealous quirks that make it more difficult to rub along well with a canine roommate. They get along with other pets such as cats, however. Again, socialization is key. You may also see them bossing your feline around and being greedy with their toys, food, and your time. Interestingly, the Pug Pit does well with other dogs outside of the home. They can be quite friendly and enjoy a good romp in the park with another furry friend. As a medium-sized dog with an average to high energy level, their meals should reflect their lifestyle. Luckily, this pup does not have a lot of food allergies or restrictions you need to be careful of, but they are prone to weight gain. With that in mind, you want to go for foods that are high in lean protein and healthy fats. Stay away from meals with a lot of sugar and carbs. You also want to look for foods with fiber , antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and glucosamine. Additional vitamins and minerals are also necessary. On average, this pup will eat about a cup and a half of food twice a day. They also need treats and other healthy snacks throughout the day. It is important to consult your vet about their diet, though. As your pet moves from their puppy years into adulthood, their nutritional needs will change. Talk to your vet about the best meals to promote their overall health. We reviewed the best multivitamins for dogs — check out our top picks here! For the most part, two outings per day will keep them content. A minute walk in the morning and a minute romp in the park in the afternoon is typically sufficient. Beyond that, they will also need some indoor or backyard playtime. Spending some time throwing a ball to your pet will do wonders. As we talked about before, this pooch is okay to spend some time alone, as well. It is important, though, that you provide them with toys. Bones or other toys they can chew on are essential. They can bark, chew, dig, and show other behaviors you will not be happy about. They can also become more stubborn, aggressive, and depressed. Being bored is not a good state for them to be in as they will find ways to entertain themselves. As you probably guessed, this breed is not a good candidate to be a backyard dog. Spending time outside alone is not off-limits, though. You need to be careful of overheating with this breed. This is especially true if they have the upturned snout of the Pug. Shade and plenty of water are important along with rest when the weather is hot and humid. Additionally, the Pug Pit has a short fur coat that is not equipped for freezing temperatures. In fact, they are not a fan of the cold, whatsoever. They will need a coat or sweater if they will be outside for extended periods. You can also think about socks or snowshoes when there is ice or snow on the ground. Again, make sure not to overdo it in extreme climates. That is something you should know right away. Although they are very intelligent, they will want to do things their way. It is more about being consistent and rewarding positive behaviors. On the other hand, positive reinforcement does wonders with this breed. Tossing them a treat when they do well will help them pick up the rules quickly. You can use this method for behavioral, obedience, and social training. Just keep in mind, you will not be able to train your pup in a day or even a week. Consistency and repetition are key. Spend a few minutes a few times a day on these activities, and they will pick it up. If you feel more frustrated on a particular day, let it go and start fresh tomorrow. Remember, they take their cues from you! With their short, straight fur, they do not produce a lot of shed. You should give them a good brush with a slicker bristle brush a few times a week. You may need to do it more often during the change of seasons, however. You can also restrict baths to an as-needed basis. You do not want to throw them in the tub too often as it can strip their fur of its natural oils that are used to keep their fur shiny and soft. You also want to make sure they are dried completely when the weather is cold to keep them from catching a chill. Ears, Teeth, and Paws You will also want to check their ears a few times a week for signs of infection, mites, and other debris. You can wipe their ears clean with a cotton ball or other soft cloth, and a dog ear cleaning solution. Additionally, you must check their teeth. Brushing as often as possible is recommended. This pup can have some gnarly puppy breath, so dental treats are also advised. Finally, you will need to trim their nails. A guillotine trimmer usually works best. How often this is done can vary. If you take your pooch out often, their nails will take longer to grow as they are being naturally filed down. This is especially true if you live in a rural area where they are walking on a lot of pavement. Keep in mind, if you start a grooming routine when your dog is a puppy, they will get used to it quickly, and most even come to enjoy it. On the other hand, if you adopt an older dog who is not used to grooming, there is nothing wrong with seeking help. Trimming their nails can be especially tough. Unfortunately, if a parent is predisposed to illness, their offspring is likely to be, as well. Below, we have outlined the more serious and minor health conditions you could run into with your pet. Minor Conditions. However, mixes with a bit more Pitbull to them would be big instead. Usually, such dogs would weigh around thirty pounds, which is actually more than the substantial with dogs that are as athletic as Pitbull and Pug mix. They are around 1 ft tall and it tends to have a bit variation in their height. However, they tend to be a big cheaper compared to some dogs. The low price for the Pitbull Pug mix is because of the relative commonality of Pitbull parent. It means that breeders of Pug Pitt are much easier to find than most of you think. It makes them good for those who are away from their home or those who just do not like to devote lots of time grooming dogs. These dogs have straight and short hair, which can be brushed once in a week to ensure that the natural oils will be kept to make their coat healthy-looking and shiny. Brush their teeth 2 or 3 times weekly to prevent bad breath and tartar buildup. However, to avoid tooth decay, brush their teeth every day. Bathe them only if necessary. You have to take note that Pitbull parent breed is sensitive to touch. Pugs are an aggressive shedder even if they are small. So, make sure to invest in the best vacuum if you like to keep your floors neat as always. In terms of training requirements, Pitbull Pug mix can be challenging to train. These dogs will take the alpha position and would require somebody with a strong and firm hand that could let them know their real place. The good thing you should do is to break sessions to shorter sessions daily to keep the attention span much higher. It could have prey drive as well as be disposed to chasing and running for small preys. Every dog responds best to a positive reinforcement. Therefore, ensure to praise your dog when he does well. These dogs are intelligent and love to please and enjoy a physical challenge. The more exercises your dogs get, the simpler they will be to train. Good socialization is important to every puppy and dog. Ensure that you take your dog to a park or daycare to get him around as many dogs and people as possible. Typically, the Pugbull terrier will live for up to 13 years. It requires grooming as it does not shed much. Brushing on the alternate days is great. You should exercise and play with this dog. Sometimes, Pitbull Pug mixes demand activities. However, training may take patience and time. You should not let it go the way. Some dogs have higher energy, yet they still require a fair share of walking or exercise. Get ready to take this dog for hikes, long walks, and keep his energy level low if possible. You should also be careful if you cannot give your dog the time to exercise. These dogs could hurt themselves and overheat. Tired dogs are good dogs. Do not tie your dog outside. It is inhumane and may not be fair to him. If you are planning to get one of these dogs and you are not sure about it, make sure to read those details above carefully. Bringing home a Pitbull Pug mix can be both good and bad. It depends on some factors and how you deal with pets. Or, if you really want to have a Pitbull and Pug mix, you can always consider hiring dog training experts. With this, you can be assured that your dog will be trained properly. However, we would always recommend that you consult a vet to find the perfect fit for your unique Pug Pitbull mix. Health Risks of a Pug Pitbull Mix With crossbred pups, the risk of inheriting the same health conditions as their parents is incredibly likely. Weight gain Both parent breeds are food lovers, and they will enjoy the food at any given moment. However, this could result in obesity for the pup, which adds to many other physical conditions. Ear infections Ear infections are common amongst Pug Pitbulls. They result from a lack of ear care and proper cleaning and can prove to be extremely painful in severe cases. Diabetes Pug Pitbulls might get more chances for diabetes from the genes of pugs. Hence, it is essential to get them checked regularly. Epilepsy If a Pugbull inherits from the pug, you need to keep an eye on epilepsy. Pug Dog Encephalitis causes inflammation in the brain which results in seizures and epileptic attacks. While this condition can be treated upon recognition, it can also turn into severe cases, so you need to remain attentive. Hip dysplasia Pug Pitbulls can be prone to dysplasia. This condition puts severe pressure on their elbows and joints and makes the joint areas challenging to move. This can cause pain during mobility. Pug Pitbull Mix Exercise and Training Exercise and training are essential factors when it comes to owning a dog. Pugs mixed with Pitbulls are a unique breed with special needs for their exercise and training. Exercise The exercising capabilities of pug and pitbull mix puppies depend on which parent they dominantly take after. On average, the Pug Pitbull mix requires about an hour of exercise throughout the day. This can be broken down into two sessions of 30 minutes. However, If the dog takes after its Pitbull parent, they will be more energetic and will always be jumping around and nagging you to play along, so you may need to increase the exercise time over an hour. Pug Pits can be chaotic if not given enough exercise throughout the day. They will have pent up excessive energy and bark and growl at you. Hence, it would be best if you catered to all their exercising needs for the day. Training If your pup gets its genes dominantly from their pug parent, then they will have no problem adjusting to any environment and will be generally friendly. These pups inherit the same streak of stubbornness as their parents, which means that you will have to be stricter while training. Here are some tips to train them: Introduce yourself as the Alpha. This will make the pup abide by your rules and learn to obey commands quickly. Positive reinforcement is key while training pugbulls. They are always ready to please their owners. Use treats as a reward for their good behavior. Do not be overly strict in their training as it will cause them to rebel more. If you find it hard to train your pup, hire a professional trainer as training these pups is essential if you want a family-friendly dog. During the shedding season, this could be 2 to 3 times a week. Use slicker brushes for this process. If your Pug Pitbull Mix has inherited the Pug skinfolds, then you need to clean them every other day to prevent infections thoroughly. Bathe your puppy every 3 to 4 weeks. Take care of their paws regularly. Trim their nails every 3 to 4 weeks or whenever you hear them clicking across surfaces. Clean their ears and the ear canal thoroughly every 1 to 2 weeks. Take care of their teeth and brush them properly every day or at least 3 times a week. FAQs 1. How much does it cost to buy pug and pitbull mix puppies? Not all breeders use purebreds for breeding these pups; hence their prices can vary. Is a pug and pitbull mix puppy right for your family? Pug Pitbulls are excellent family dogs. They get along with large families and kids of all ages. With ample training, they acquire good social skills and can adapt to any environment reasonably quickly. Their unique features and their adorable traits give you the best of both worlds of Pugs and Pitbulls. With little training and a whole lot of love, your Pug Pitbull Mix will be your best friend for life and get along with everyone. Cons: The physical characteristics of a Pitbull Pug Mix will vary depending on which parent breed it takes after more. However, they will likely have a short, stocky build, a short snout, and a muscular body. This is one of the reasons why breeders and potential dog owners often prefer purebred dogs. However, mixed-breed dogs can be just as lovable and make great pets. Pitbull mix Pugs are generally energetic and playful, and they may inherit the high energy and stamina of the Pitbull breed. They may also be intelligent and trainable, as both Pugs and Pitbulls are known for their ability to learn quickly. It is important to note that the temperament of any crossbred dog can be difficult to predict, as it will depend on the specific characteristics of each parent breed. It is always important to socialize and train any dog, regardless of breed, to ensure they are well-behaved and obedient. Unfortunately, it needs to be clarified when or how the practice of crossing these two breeds began, as there is limited information available on the origin and history of Pit Bull Pug mixes. The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed of dog originally developed in the United States for bull-baiting, a now-outlawed blood sport in which dogs are pitted against bulls for entertainment. After bull-baiting was made illegal, Pit Bulls were used for various purposes, including hunting, guarding, and as family pets. Today, Pit Bulls are often associated with dog fighting, although many are well-behaved and make great pets. The Pug is a small breed of dog that originated in China. Pugs were popular with the Chinese aristocracy and were often kept as lap dogs. Pugs were introduced to Europe in the 16th century and have been popular in the Western world ever since. Pugs are known for their playful and affectionate personalities and are often considered good companions for people of all ages. Pitbull Pug Mix Appearance The appearance of a Pitbull Pug Mix can vary widely, as it will depend on which parent breed the puppy takes after more. Some Pug Mix Pitbulls may have a more muscular, athletic build and a shorter snout, characteristic of Pitbulls. Others may have a more compact, stocky build and a longer snout, which are characteristics of Pugs. In general, Pugbulls will have a short, smooth coat in various colors, including black, brown, fawn, or brindle. They may also have the signature curled tail and small, floppy ears of a Pug. Overall, Pug Mix Pitbulls are likely to be medium to small in size, with a short, stocky build. It is important to note that the appearance of any crossbred dog can be difficult to predict, as it will depend on the specific characteristics of each parent breed. Pitbulls and pugs are two very different breeds of dog, so it can be difficult to predict the size of a Pitbull Pug mix. However, both species are generally considered medium-sized dogs, so a Pit Bull Pug mix will likely be similar in size. Pit bulls typically weigh between 30 and 65 pounds and stand between 17 and 21 inches tall at the shoulder. Pugs, on the other hand, weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and stand between 10 and 13 inches tall at the shoulder. A Pitbull Pug mix could be anywhere from small to medium in size, depending on which breed it takes after more. However, Pitbulls and Pugs are generally considered friendly and good-natured breeds, so a Pitbull Pug mix could also be a good family dog. Pit Bulls are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, and they are often considered good pets for families with children. Pugs are also known for their friendly and playful personalities and are often considered good pets for families with children. Pugs are generally low-energy dogs and are well-suited to apartment living. However, they can be prone to obesity and may require a consistent exercise routine to stay healthy. However, both Pitbulls and Pugs are prone to certain health issues, and a Pitbull Pug mix could also be prone to these issues. Pitbulls are generally considered healthy, but they can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and heart conditions. Pitbulls may also be prone to skin allergies and eye problems. Proper care and regular veterinary check-ups can help to prevent or manage these health issues. Pugs are also generally considered healthy, but they can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and respiratory issues. In addition, proper care and regular veterinary check-ups can help to prevent or manage these health issues. The specific dietary needs of your dog will depend on its size, age, and activity level, as well as any health issues it may have. Dogs generally require a balanced diet that includes protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Some human foods safe for dogs include cooked lean meats, vegetables, and certain fruits. Cleaning and Grooming Cleaning and grooming your Pug mix Pitbull is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. Regular grooming can help to keep your dog healthy and looking their best, and it can also be a great opportunity to bond with your pet. The specific grooming needs of your Pug mix Pitbull will depend on their coat type and length, as well as their age and activity level. Mixed-breed dogs with short coats may require less grooming than long coats. However, all dogs will benefit from regular brushing, nail trims, and dental care. To groom your Pitbull Pug mix, you will need a few basic tools, including a brush or comb, scissors or clippers, and a slicker brush. You may also need a grooming table or a non-slip surface to work on. This is especially important if your dog has a long or thick coat, as tangles and matting can be uncomfortable for your dog and may lead to skin irritation. How often you should bathe your dog will depend on their age, activity level, and coat type, but most dogs will benefit from a bath every few months. Be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo and avoid getting water in your ears. A consistent grooming routine can help keep your Pitbull Pug mix healthy and looking their best. Training and Exercise Training and exercise are important for all dogs, including Pug mixed Pitbulls. Training can help to establish a bond between you and your dog and can also help to prevent behavior problems. In addition, exercise can help to keep your dog healthy and happy and can also be a great way to bond with your pet. Pit Bulls are generally intelligent and eager to please, making them good training candidates. However, they can be strong-willed and may require consistent training and positive reinforcement to ensure they are well-behaved. Pugs are also generally intelligent and eager to please, making them good candidates for training. However, they can be independent and may require consistent training and positive reinforcement to ensure they are well-behaved. Pitbulls are generally active and energetic dogs and will benefit from daily walks and playtime. On the other hand, pugs are generally low-energy dogs, but they will still benefit from daily walks and playtime to help them stay healthy and fit. By providing your Pitbull Pug mix with regular training and exercise, you can help to keep them healthy, happy, and well-behaved. The cost of a Pitbull Pug mix can vary widely, depending on several factors, including the specific dog, the location, and the availability of the breed. Mixed-breed dogs may be less expensive than purebred dogs, although this is only sometimes the case. The cost of a Pitbull Pug mix puppy can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the specific dog and the location. In addition to the initial purchase price, ongoing expenses are associated with owning a dog, including food, supplies, veterinary care, and grooming. This will help you to budget for the initial purchase price and ongoing expenses and to ensure that you are prepared to provide your new pet with the care they need. Owning a dog is a big responsibility and requires significant time and attention. Pros: Loyalty and affection: Pugs and Pitbulls are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them great companion dogs. Adaptability: Pugs and Pitbulls are generally adaptable breeds that can thrive in various living situations, including apartments and houses. Intelligence: Pugs and Pitbulls are generally intelligent breeds and may be easier to train than others. Cons: Size and strength: Pitbulls are a medium to large breed, while Pugs are a small breed. This means that a Pug Pitbull mix could be small to large, depending on which breed it takes after more. A larger dog may not be a good fit for you if you have small children or live in a small living space. Potential health issues: Both Pugs and Pitbulls are prone to certain health issues, and a Pug Pitbull mix could also be prone to these issues. Exercise requirements: Both Pugs and Pitbulls have different exercise requirements. Pugs are generally low-energy dogs and may not need as much exercise as Pitbulls, which are generally more active and energetic. Overall, the pros and cons of owning a Pitbull Pug mix will depend on your individual situation and lifestyle. Our website is all about Pitbull dogs. Please navigate to Mixed Breeds on the menu to find them all. Mandy Connelly Mandy has lived with pitbulls her whole life, and she has amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge about these magnificent animals. Having had the pleasure of owning and caring for numerous pitbulls over the years, she has come to understand their unique characteristics, behaviors, and needs. Read more.

Liver and Tan Blue While you may view these colors as simply… colors, each of them is actually unique in its own ways. They vary in popularity, history, some of them even have another set of variations. Black: As previously mentioned, the black variation is one of the original German shepherd colors, along with black and white German shepherds and white GSDs. White: The white color is also one of the original variations. Sadly, white German shepherds are not able to participate in kennel club shows, although they are allowed in agility and obedience competitions. Black and Tan: German shepherd puppies of this variation is the most commonly bred in many countries. It is also the most popular since Hollywood canine stars such as Rin Tin Tin bears the black and tan color. Black and Red: This color variation is often associated with the black and tan color. The pattern looks similar, with only the tan being red as the difference. While black and red German shepherds are more common in show lines, the black and tan variation can be found more in working lines. This is mainly because they are basically black German shepherds with a shade of silver, gray, or brown. Sable: Sable GSDs are particularly known for having individual hairs that has two or three colors. This variety of colors is what makes them unique. This unique trait is also responsible for many variations such as red sable and silver sable German shepherds. Liver and Tan: This is a rather unique variation in the sense that what normally will be black in color in a German shepherd will be brownish instead. Additionally, GSDs in this variation has hint of tan, although there are pure liver German shepherds. Blue: Blue GSDs are also of a unique kind. Just like the liver and tan, instead of having black in color, they will adopt the blue color instead. See also Black German Shepherd While these are the common colors of German shepherds at this point, times are changing. What happened to be rare today might become common tomorrow. Of course, common colors can also become rare at some point. Speaking of which, there are color variations that are in danger of fading slowly in the German shepherd color gene pool. Rare Colors Rare colors are usually a genetic fault. But while they can be considered a flaw in genetics, they are still the lovable German shepherds we know. Also, these colors are usually a different version of some of the previously mentioned common colors. Light Blue: Obviously, this belongs to the blue color variation. The only difference between blue and light blue is that there may be traces of silver in a light blue GSD. However, sable color may range from silver, black, gray, or tan. On the other hand, grey GSDs are mainly gray with almost no traces of black hairs. Panda: Panda is more of a pattern than a color. A panda German shepherd is like a white GSD, except it displays black spots around their body. Liver: Just like liver and tan, the liver color results in a brown German shepherd instead of black. These colors might be rare, but some owners are not even aware of how rare their German shepherd is. There have been asking this questions lately, which is perhaps because they are noticing some color changes in their German shepherd. The answer to this question is yes, the color of a German shepherd can change as they age. However, the severity of this color change depends on the original color. Black and Tan: They might be the most popular, but this information might not be known to many. Contrary to common belief, black and tan German shepherds are born as completely black dogs. The tan only starts to show itself after at least 6 months. Sable: Regardless of the main color of a sable GSD, be it tan, silver, or gray, the color will change as they grow older. Some may get darker by age, and some may get lighter. Either way, the period is the same as black and tan. It starts at 6 months and ends in 2 years. These two are the color variations that undergoes the most significant color change in German shepherds. There are, however, some German shepherds coat colors that do not change. In short, dogs with these colors live with it for the rest of their lives. Black and White: The two original colors, black and white, undergo no changes as they age. These are the only exceptions and they will live out their lives with the color they were born with. However, some opinions are false. Unfortunately, there have been many misconceptions nowadays about the different colors of German shepherd. Misconceptions about German Shepherd Coat Colors Throughout history, there have been lots of misconceptions and myths made surrounding German shepherd coat colors. These misconpcetions usually revolve around the unique color traits of German shepherds. However, these two are actually of the same color. This had been confirmed by many other veterinary researchers. This is because the lightening of pigment is a common flaw in the color genes of a German shepherd. Panda German Shepherds are Crossbreeds Due to their unusual appearance, panda German shepherds are seen as mixed breeds by a poodle or chow chow mix dog. However, panda German shepherds are not crossbreeds. In reality, the panda pattern is caused by a rare genetic fault, which results in few panda GSD in the world. There is a difference, however, and that lies on the traces of silver, gray, and other colors in a bicolor German shepherd. Is it rare? Is it a genetic fault? Or is it a normal color? After reading this blog post, you should already know the answers to these questions. Plus, we discussed the most common misconceptions about the coat colors of German shepherds. But after this, you can sit back and be assured that you achieved a better understanding of your cute pet. 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. The history of German Shepherd colors When talking about the German Shepherd , we have to mention the father of the breed — Von Stephanitz. Initially referred to as the Alsatian Wolf Dog and bred for herding, this versatile fido was developed to become one of the ultimate working dogs. Did you know that sable is the original color of a German Shepherd? Are you ready to discover all the wonderful colors of the German Shepherd? What are the breed-approved German Shepherd Coat Colors? The ones that are favored are black and red, black and tan, or black. The bi-color, black and cream, black and silver, and gray Shepherds are accepted in the show ring but often do poorly when compared to the deeper shades above. Some can have a few stray white hairs on their chest or minimal brown on their paws, but they should look completely black. Any noticeable markings or coloring will put them under the bi-color category. They can come from two black GSD parents, or one of them is black and tan. But before you buy a black German Shepherd puppy, we recommend that you adopt one from German Shepherd rescue organizations. Due to the black dog syndrome , any dog of this color has a lower chance of being adopted. As a result of recessive genes, they can still be produced from breeding two normal-colored GSDs. This also means you can get a litter of puppies from White Shepherds without any white. You may want to try with the UKC as they accept these beauties in show lines. This solid color is completely banned in Germany that it got to the point where they cull white German Shepherd puppies. Despite being disproved with modern science, this rule stayed. You can see in this video how the black and tan can be different for every GSD. Some have more black, and others have more tan. Some Germans have white tips: But German Shepherds have other black variations. The shade can range from a deep mahogany color to a strawberry blonde. Black and Silver German Shepherd Source: silversun. If you inspect them closely, they even have a hint of saddle that extends heavily over them. Black sables, on the other hand, are born black with or without slight tan markings. But the most common variant of the sable is red. Red Sable German Shepherds show the sable on their saddle area, but it can extend over their bodies, as well. This coloring causes each strand of fur to have two or three colors. Look at the undercoat to know the base color of heavy-sabled GSDs. This color does make this breed unique and good-looking, and no two dogs will look the same because the sable pattern and color will vary. Being a dominant color, you will always get a sable even if you pair it with another color. Liver Brown German Shepherd Aside from their gorgeous russet coats, brown or liver German Shepherds can have piercing golden eyes. Much like the Blue German Shepherd, this coloration is caused by a recessive dilute gene. It represses the black and makes it brown. While livers can be registered with the AKC, they must be of solid color and not exhibit any tan or sabling. It can even create a sable liver, bi-color liver, and the liver and tan saddle back German Shepherds. They are often solid blue, with a little white on the chest. Their pigmentation will show up as a cool steel gray rather than the generic black. They can have the usual saddles but most often look like a solid-colored dog. Big black spots around their eyes, with a white undercoat, often shaded with tan. Genetically, they are German Shepherds with the piebald gene — a rare genetic mutation that occurred in .German Shepherd markings Their iconic black markings give the German Shepherd dog breed a range of colors and certain characteristics. Yet, another marking that is missing on the white Shepherd. Isabella GSDs might also lack this iconic marking, as would livers and goldens. The German Shepherd dog can also display the sable color or pattern, where its fur is black-tipped. What is the rarest color of a German Shepherd? Panda and diluted colors are infrequently seen in this purebred, mostly because of how genes are inherited. Is it okay to get a rare-colored GSD? Rare colors are often seen as a marketing ploy by people attempting to make more money off the GSD litters that do not conform with its standard. Specific color patterns, such as the Panda Shepherd, are spontaneous mutations, which means reputable breeders would stay away from breeding for a particular color. How can you tell what color a German Shepherd puppy will be? If you want to know the genetics behind it, the agouti gene causing the sable color is dominant in the German Shepherd dog breed. Standard colors, like solid black and black and tan, are variations from recessive genes. Dilute or solid-colored coats are also considered recessive, with typical markings being the norm. Misconceptions about German Shepherd coat colors Differentiating between all these shades and patterns might be slightly tricky for the untrained eye. Many believe that black and tan is the same as black and red. While red is technically a deeper tan, it has more reddish undertones than tan, making it different. White Alsatians still have chocolate brown eyes and black pigmentation around their eyes, nose, and paws. This is what sets them apart from albinos. Liver or Blue GSDs are caused by a gene that modifies the color gene. Do German Shepherd colors affect behavior? No, the color of your GSD should not dictate how he behaves. Temperament is determined by breeding, care, and training. Germans of all colors should embody the characteristics of an alert, protective, obedient, and calm type of dog that the world has come to know and love. However, it has been noted that White Shepherds make better family pets as they have milder personalities and less aggressive. Do German Shepherd colors affect health? The color white has long been associated with deafness, but a good breeder will always make sure their dogs are free of genetic defects before breeding them. With that said, we believe that this is the only time that color should be a concern. As a large breed dog, they are prone to shoulder or hip dysplasia , and bloat. This is due to the breed itself and NOT due to their coloration. How about German Shepherd eye color? Gray or liver-colored dogs might have amber eyes. The rest of them can have chocolate brown, honey-colored, or blue eyes. The last one is especially common with blue German Shepherds. Their guard coat or outer coat can have long, medium, or short guard hairs. The medium-length coats are considered to be a short-haired variety. Regardless of whether they have a short or long coat, they all require the same amount of grooming, which is daily. Plus, they tend to shed heavily at least twice a year. Some people get a deshedding tool to help control the shedding. You can go as long as 4 to 6 months without bathing them. This is where the white color of White Shepherds might seem a bit high maintenance because they can get dirty easily. Which German Shepherd color will you choose? Share with us your thoughts by commenting on the box below. Further reading: Learn more about GSDs. German Shepherds are often associated with the police force. They have a severe look and they are strong and brave. These dogs are also very obedient and loyal. They make excellent protectors and perfect family pets. Today, we are going to consider the primary GSD colors. Common and Original Colors Though there are a lot of variations of German Shepherd colors, the original ones are sable, black, white, and grey. There are also certain variations of these colors that developed in the process of breeding or are caused by genetic modifications. The main colors accepted by international kennel associations are black and tan, black and red, bicolor, black, sable, and grey. Some organizations are ready to accept liver and tan as well as blue. They believe that the purity of the breed depends on the intensity of the color, so the diluted hues are not acceptable. The pattern also matters. The ancestor dog bearing this color was Horand von Grafrath , who was a little darker than the present-day dogs. The breed was registered in the late s. This feature is recessive when mixed with sable but dominant when breeding with black and its variations. The puppies are usually born very dark and beginning with the 6th month they start to lighten up. The process finishes until the dog is two years old. Some female dogs have a gray stripe on their back that starts developing after two years. Though black and tans are allowed in the show line, this color is usually seen in working lines. Though, it is considered to be a variation of black and tan. The tan is replaced here by the rich red though the pattern is the same as for black and tan dogs. The black and red German Shepherd color gene pheomelanin influences the appearance of this variation. The shades of red can vary — from lighter strawberry blonde to darker and more intensive mahogany red. Such a combination is mostly preferable for all the conformation shows and experienced breeders highly value it. Black and Silver Once again, the common patterns of a saddleback and blanket-back are preserved here. A silver hue replaces only the tan or red. This coloration can appear when the recessive color suppression gene is present in one of the parents. The variation is allowed for the show lines, but silver sable German Shepherd dogs are not quite common in them. You can encounter this coloring mostly in working lines. If you are an owner of such a dog, remember that it is not visible in the dark, so it needs a special collar for night walking. Black and Cream This is a lighter variation of black and tan and the last officially accepted type of coloring for the breed. However, since the breeders understand that conformation rules account for darker and more intensive colors, they do not eagerly display their dogs colored like this at the shows. Sable Sable German Shepherd This is the original color of this breed and it is a dominant gene that develops it. This German Shepherd color looks very similar to a wild wolf. Every single hair has about three colors on its string, so such dogs are also called tri-colored. The tips of the hairs end with black. These colors can be of different hues — grey, tan, red, or dark brown. The dark shades are more preferable for show lines. The sable gene should be present in at least one sample of the dog pair. It is a dominant gene and it never displays recessively. The two dogs, who are black and tan, cannot produce sable. When a sable color German Shepherd male is bred to a female of any color, their litter will be all sable. However, a puppy that was born sable may not be a dominant sable because it also receives a recessive gene of another color. The tri-color German Shepherd can change with age. The dogs become darker, or some of them can get even lighter. The color starts changing from 6 months and ends at the age of two years. The first registered sample of this breed color was a female born in the end of the s. It may also have some trace of another color on the cheeks. The true bicolor German Shepherd is very dark with just minimal spots of another color. When you need to see whether the puppy is bicolor just after its birth, you need to look for a brown spot under its tail. Bicolor is a recessive gene to the common black and tan. Bicolors can be commonly met in working lines rather than in show lines. Such black German Shepherd dogs have a fully solid color. Some hairs can be a bit brownish, especially on their paws, or they may carry a white spot on their chest. These dogs are not encountered so often as black and tan ones, but they are not considered rare. Black is caused by the most recessive color gene of all, so the litter of such a dog can be of any other color even if both parents are black. Though, the offspring all have this recessive gene. So, the subsequent litters of this breed can produce black shepherds quite unexpectedly. White White German Shepherd It may sound strange, but white is another original German Shepherd color, no matter what the breeder will tell you about its uniqueness. However, according to all breeding standards, white color in GSs is seen as a significant fault that disqualifies the puppy immediately. Such dogs are never shown in conformations and they are not allowed in any other shows. Some people also believe that the white color is the lack of color and such dogs are often confused with albinos. In fact, they are not. The main difference between a white German Shepherd and an albino GS is the color of their eyes. In albinos, it is pinkish blue, reddish blue, or just red. They also have some spots of other colors on their body, but albinos cannot have them because their body does not produce any color. The gene that is responsible for the appearance of a white puppy in the litter of black and tans, sables, or blacks is called a masking gene meaning that the genetic color of such a pup is masked. The white German Shepherd dogs are considered rare and there are special organizations that care about them and breeders strive for their promotion. There are many other misconceptions about these white GSDs. Though this color does not contain any others and there are no black tips in the hairs. Grey is one of the six primary colors recognized by the AKC. This GSD color is caused by the dominant gene. One parent can have it to produce the grey offspring. The gene can also be present in dogs in a recessive form, but it should be present in both parents to receive a grey puppy. The grey color in German Shepherds is not too rare but quite uncommon, so breeders do their best to breed puppies of this stunning color. However, silver is recognized as a separate color. Unlike grey, silver is caused by a recessive gene that can affect the black pigment and dilute it. A silver German Shepherd can be widely seen in the police force and military service. They look stunning and such dogs cost very much to acquire. They display blue instead. This dog makes up a stunning sight. Its eyes are golden-brown or amber-colored and that provides an exotic look. A recessive dilution gene provides this German Shepherd color. The dogs may be mistaken for a Blue Belgian Malinois and its acceptance to the conformation shows is somewhat controversial. The AKC considers it inappropriate for the shows. Light Blue This light colored German Shepherd is a blue color variation. The color is produced by the combination of the two dilution genes — blue and liver ones. The color of the eyes is also quite unusual, as well as the color of the nose which can be of any hue from pink to liver. The dog does not have any black pigmentation anywhere, even on the paw pads. Its eyes are either hazel or light blue. The classic liver covers all the body of a dog. It is a solid color without any hint of tan or anything else. This color is rare, but some people do not know about it and do not think their pets to be so unique. The liver colored German Shepherd dog has amber-colored eyes and looks very distinctive and gorgeous. The gene that causes this color is recessive, so both parents need this gene in their DNA to produce the litter of this color. Instead of being black, the dog acquires this deep brownish color. Some people always argue that this is not an original genetic color, but such a panda colored German Shepherd dog is actually a crossbreed with a Border Collie. In fact, the color is caused by a rare gene mutation and does not have anything in common with crossbreeding. Albino Albino German Shepherd This is considered extremely rare. Those people who claim that their dog is an albino German Shepherd are mistaken and just have a white-colored GS. An albino representative of any species lacks pigmentation completely. There is no color on the skin, eyes, hair, or even on the blood vessels. When you look at the German Shepherd albino, pay attention to its eyes and nose. These dogs can suffer from some health conditions. For example, they are photosensitive, so they cannot withstand direct sunlight. Some Misconceptions About the Colors of German Shepherd Dogs Only experienced experts can differentiate all the colors and hues of this stunning breed. That produces many misconceptions and wrong ideas about these dogs. Black and Tan and Black and Red Are Not the Same People usually think that black and tan GSDs are what they exactly should look like because they associate them with the police dogs featured in the films. However, they cannot distinguish between black and tan and black and red, thinking that it is the same coloring. It is not, of course. The black and cream and black and silver colors are not similar, either. Mythology Around Black German Shepherds While breeders usually claim that black and black sable German Shepherd dogs are much stronger and more agile than other colors, common people still believe that meeting such a dog at night is a bad omen. Also, some people are afraid of these dogs more than others because they think they are more aggressive. Its breeding and ways of training are the factors that really matter. They are believed to be deaf. Others claim that rare-colored dogs are more susceptible to infections and their lifespan is much shorter than those who have more common colors. German Shepherds belong to a large breed and they are vulnerable to such disorders as hip or shoulder dysplasia or bloating, but these diseases do not correlate with the color of their fur. All German Shepherd colors possess such qualities as obedience, calmness, readiness to defend and protect, and alertness. Or they may be aggressive and even dangerous if not trained and cared for properly. Final Thoughts Before adopting a German Shepherd dog, think about your preferences, mostly why you want to have this dog. There are some requirements if you want it to be presented in the show ring. You need to think about the German Shepherd puppy colors and shades then. Or you may just want your dog to protect your house and family. In this case, any hue of the coating is suitable. If you want your German Shepherd just to be a family pet and companion, you may follow your personal preferences. Take your GSD puppy from a reputable breeder who can guarantee the purity of the breed and the excellent physical qualities of the parents and their litter. Your dog will become an excellent investment then. We hope that speaking so much about the GSD colors as we have done in this article will help you in making your choice. Or, if you are already a happy owner of this stunning pet, you might have learned many interesting things that will help you take care of your beloved fido in the future. 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. It is well proportioned and very strong. The piebald coloring has occurred in a single GSD bloodline. The Panda Shepherd has a sturdy, muscular, slightly elongated body with a light, solid bone structure. The head should be in proportion to its body, and the forehead a little rounded. The nose is most often black, however blue or liver still do sometimes occur, but are considered a fault and cannot be shown. The teeth meet in a strong scissors bite. The dark eyes are almond shaped and never protruding. The ears are wide at the base, pointed, upright and turned forward. The ears of puppies under six months may drop slightly. The bushy tail reaches almost to its hocks and hangs down when the dog is at rest. The front legs and shoulders are muscular and the thighs are thick and sturdy. The round feet have very hard soles. Temperament Often used as working dogs, Panda Shepherds are courageous, keen, alert and fearless. Cheerful, obedient eager to learn, tranquil, confident, serious and clever, Panda Shepherds are extremely faithful and brave. They will not think twice about giving their lives for their human pack. They have a high learning ability. Panda Shepherds love to be close to their families, but can be wary of strangers. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. They only bark when they feel it is necessary. Often used as police dogs, the Panda Shepherd has a very strong protective instinct, and is extremely loyal to its handler. Socialize this breed well starting at puppyhood. Aggression and attacks on people are due to poor handling and training. This breed needs owners who are naturally authoritative over the dog in a calm, but firm, confident and consistent way. A stable, well-adjusted and trained dog is, for the most part, generally good with other pets and excellent with children in the family. They must be firmly trained in obedience from an early age. Panda Shepherds who have passive owners and or whose instincts are not being met can become timid, skittish, may be prone to fear biting and develop a guarding issue. They should be trained and socialized from an early age. Panda Shepherds will not listen if they sense that they are stronger minded than their owner, however they will also not respond well to harsh discipline. Owners need to have an air of natural authority to their demeanor. Do not treat this dog as if he were human. Learn canine instincts and treat the dog accordingly. Panda Shepherds are one of the smartest and most trainable breeds. With this highly skilled working dog comes a drive to have a job and a task in life and a consistent pack leader to show them guidance. They need somewhere to channel their mental and physical energy. This is not a breed that will be happy simply lying around your living room or locked out in the backyard. The breed is so intelligent and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service and in the military. The Panda Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including Schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, Flyball and ring sport. His fine nose can sniff out drugs and intruders , and can alert handlers to the presence of underground mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipes buried 15 feet underground. The Panda Shepherd is also a popular show and family companion. Height, Weight Height: Males 24 - 26 inches 60 - 65 cm Females 22 - 24 inches 55 - 60 cm Weight: 77 - 85 pounds 35 - 40 kg Health Problems Indiscriminate breeding has led to hereditary diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia be sure both parents have had their hips certified at least OFA good , blood disorders, digestive problems probably due to nerves , epilepsy, chronic eczema, keratitis inflammation of the cornea , dwarfism and flea allergies. Living Conditions The Panda Shepherd will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. These dogs are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least a large yard. Exercise Panda Shepherd Dogs love strenuous activity, preferably combined with training of some kind, for these dogs are very intelligent and crave a good challenge. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk , jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Most shepherds love to play ball or Frisbee. Ten to fifteen minutes of fetching along with daily pack walks will tire your dog out quite nicely as well as give him a sense of purpose. Does best with a job to do. Life Expectancy.