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A Husky Lab Mix has high energy levels, and she needs to be exercised properly to stay fit. She also enjoys swimming, running in the park, and playing Frisbee, or any other interactive game. These dogs are suitable for active families, where running, jogging, camping trips, or hiking are common activities. I think having a yard where your dog can run freely is essential when dealing with this breed. Make sure you have a strong fence before bringing your future dog home, to prevent her from escaping. A Lab Husky Mix also loves to dig holes, so take all precautions if you have plants. It can be white, black, brown, golden, or any combination of these colors. Some have blue eyes, while others have eyes of different colors. The most common are eye and skin diseases, degenerative myelopathy , arthritis, hip dysplasia, and cancer. Besides potty training , obedience lessons can also help you bond easier with your dog while giving you the chance to remain in charge. This dog is very intelligent and in most cases you can train her yourself, especially if you start at an early age. Always use positive reinforcement and never punish your dog for not following your commands. Outside the shedding season, your dog needs to be brushed twice a week, to keep her coat beautiful and to reduce the amount of lost hair. Keeping your dog alone for too long can cause separation anxiety, sometimes also found in Huskies, but more common when it comes to Labradors. Get her some resistant dog toys to chew, and free access to the yard where she can play, run, and move freely. Make sure she always has a place to go in case of bad weather. If you work all day, ask a friend or a pet walker to take her to the park and make sure you also spend enough time with her when you get home. Conclusion As you can see, a Labrador Husky Mix is a great dog. Do you think you can handle such a dog? Or do you already have one? Let us know what you think about the Husky Lab Mix in a comment below. About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Very easy to train. I disagree with many of the characteristics listed. Ours is lazy and does not like a lot of activity. The only issue we have is his obsession with children. He loves kids so much that if he can see them but cannot get to them he becomes so laserly focused and cry a very high pitch until they are out of sight. He wants to smell them and lick them on the face and generally hang out with them. Another dog approached and he chased him or her off in an aggressive manner. I had never seen him aggressive like that before. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. So, what do you get when you mix them together? An intelligent, social, and playful pooch that can accompany you on all of your adventures. If you are thinking of adopting a Husky Lab Mix into your family, here is everything you need to know. Husky Lab Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 40 to 60 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, straight, color varies Shedding — yes Temperament — Intelligent, sociable, loyal, playful, and eager to please Trainable — Very trainable but can act up when bored Activity — Highly active needs at least one hour of exercise and intermittent daily activity Best For — Families and people with lots of time to spend with them and active lifestyles What is a Husky Lab Mix? They are different from a purebred Labrador Husky, which is a purebred dog native to coastal Labrador. It has the same wolf look as a Husky and, just like a wolf, howls rather than barks. Huskador Appearance Mixed-breed dogs are an unpredictable combination of the two parent breeds, so it is impossible to know exactly what they will look like before they are born. However, one Husky trait that is commonly inherited by Huskadors is heterochromia, which is two different-colored eyes. This is one of the traits that gives both Huskies and Huskadors their unique look. Although their final look is always a lottery, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Husky Lab Mixes. Size As both Huskies and Labradors are medium-sized dogs, their joint offspring will be about the same size. Huskies are the smaller of the two breeds, and the females are much smaller than the males. Male Huskies are between 21 and .Labradors are larger at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. This means for safe breeding, the Labrador will pretty much always be the mother of the Siberian Retriever, as the mother needs to be the larger of the two dogs in order to avoid problems birthing the pups. So expect you Husky Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds. You can get a better idea of just how big the dog will be by looking at the size of the parents. Color Labskies come in a wide range of different colors including black, brown, yellow, white, grey, and copper. They can be one solid color, like Labradors, or they can be an unexpected mix, taking after their Husky parent. It is not uncommon to see white Huskadors with the golden ears of a Labrador, or white pups with the coloring over the ears and nose in black or brown. But any pattern or mix is possible. Coat Siberian Retrievers will usually have the short coat of a Labrador, as this seems to be a dominant gene that shows up in their mixed children. But they are also likely to have the straight hair that we are accustomed to seeing on Huskies. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. Huskies have a particularly thick undercoat that helps keep them warm in icy temperatures, so a Huskador might also find themselves with one. But whether they inherit this winter warmer or not, Siberian Retrievers shed—a lot—especially in fall and spring when they change their coats. Regular brushing is essential for maintenance, as is a vacuum cleaner that is up to the task! Husky Labrador Mix Character The personality you get when you mix a Husky and a Labrador is unpredictable, but both are friendly dogs that love people, so you can be sure you will have a sociable, human-loving pup. Labrador Retrievers were initially hunting dogs bred to retrieve wild game. This means they have been bred to enjoy being around humans and to be pleasers, completing tasks in return for rewards. They are friendly, good with strangers, and easy to train, which means their behavior is controllable. Huskies are working dogs bred to pull sleds and hunt in cold climates. They can also be very vocal and bark a lot. These dogs are escape artists, which means you need to take extra care when building their homes and enclosures. A Husky Lab Mix can inherit any and all of these traits in different measures, but you can be sure the dog will be intelligent and trainable. Both breeds are also playful, friendly, and love people. They make great pets for family homes. Activity Levels Both Labradors and Huskies have a lot of energy, so you can be sure their offspring are also going to be high energy pups. They will need a minimum of one hour of exercise every day. These dogs will love and benefit from a quick game of fetch every few hours, which appeals to their retriever instinct. This regular distraction will also help keep them occupied enough that they are less likely to indulge in unwanted behavior such as chewing your shoes, digging holes, and finding their way under the fence. Yes, sometimes these dogs are just too intelligent for their own good! These dogs are ideal for active owners who want a companion on their adventures. And Husky Labs Mixes can go just about anywhere with you. They are personable enough to get on well in a crowd, they will have no problems with those long jokes, and they even love the water! These dogs tend to be great swimmers. Exercise As we have already said, Siberian Retrievers are very high energy dogs, so they need a lot of exercise. This means a minimum of one hour per day. They need exercise in regular bursts. As we have already suggested, take them out in the yard for a quick game of fetch a couple of times a day and you will have a much happier pooch. It will also help maintain their weight, which is important because carrying extra pounds can exacerbate many of the health problems common in these dogs. Intellectual Stimulation The pups of Huskies and Labradors are highly intelligent, which means they need a lot of intellectual stimulation. If not, they will get into trouble. Labradors tend to be chewers and will make short work of a lot of things in your home. Huskies are diggers and also seem to manage to get in or out of anything. So you may come home to find they are not where you left them. Puzzle toys can help keep your dog stimulated, but be aware that Huskadors will make short work of them. They are heavy chewers with powerful jaws, so you will be replacing that toy regularly. Another option is to look for more durable indestructible dog toys. The KONG Extreme is one of our favorite toys and can be mentally stimulating as well as highly durable. Companionship Huskadors need a lot of love and attention. They are not the type of dog you can leave alone at home for the whole day while you are at work. They will not only get into trouble, but they can develop separation anxiety and depression. This is not the type of dog for people whose houses are empty for most of the day. Grooming Both parent dogs of Siberian Retrievers shed a lot, so you can expect their kids to do the same. For this reason, they need to be brushed at least twice a week, and during their shedding seasons in fall and spring they will need brushing every day. This should not be seen as a chore, but rather as some nice bonding time for the two of you. What may seem like more of a chore is cleaning up all the hair they shed around your home. Commit to the fact that very regular vacuuming is now part of your regime, and get a specialist pet vacuum cleaner that has the power and the attachments needed to pick up all that hair. This means they do not need to be bathed too often. When you do bathe them, be sure to wash out all the shampoo and conditioner. This can easily be held onto by their hair, and if left behind can irritate their skin. But brushing is only the beginning of the grooming regime these pups need, not all of which will be such a pleasant bonding experience. They need their teeth brushed at least three times a week. Thankfully, this can be partially achieved with dental chew toys. They should also have their ears cleaned regularly, especially if they have the floppy ears of a retriever. Bacteria, yeast, and parasites live in the ear canal. Finally, make sure to trim their nails on a regular basis, at least monthly. This is often a job best left to the experts, as it is easy to cut too deep and hurt your pooch, which will only make them less cooperative next time as they will develop a fear of the clippers pretty quickly. If you are confident enough to do it at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. We prefer to use a nail grinder called a Dremmel to trim our dogs nails. However, the Dremmel is something you should slowly introduce to your dog so he is not fearful of the sound and vibration. Diet Huskadors need a diet that is high in healthy proteins. Both Labradors and Huskies are natural carnivores, so they feel better when they have a diet high in meat and without excessive amounts of carbohydrates. Processed carbohydrates should be avoided for all dogs, but especially these. Husky Lab Mixes have a lot of energy, and that protein will help them get through their day. They should also have quite a bit of fat in their diet but not too much. You need to be careful about maintaining the weight of these dogs, as they can have heart and joint issues, and excess weight will just exacerbate these health problems. Husky Lab Mixes can have sensitive stomachs, which means that artificial coloring, rendered fats, and processed grains should all be avoided. Look to vary their diet by introducing novel proteins such as rabbit and venison. Puppies should eat special puppy food until about the age of one. Until they are six months old, feed them four times a day, and after that drop to twice a day. They will probably need to move onto special foods for senior dogs at about the age of 7, which is when they enter the second half of their lives. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day. But while this is a good guide, listen to your vet and watch their weight to find their unique dietary balance. Check out our list of best dog foods for Huskies and best dog foods for Labs for some of our recommendations. Known Health Problems Dogs are just as unique as humans when it comes to the health problems they can develop, but some breeds are more prone to certain conditions than others. Husky Lab Mixes are susceptible to the conditions that are common among both Huskies and Labradors: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — A condition that arises when the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally, which can cause extreme pain and arthritis later in life Eye Conditions — Various eye conditions including cataracts, corneal dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy, all of which can all result in blindness Heart Conditions — Usually a decrease in the effectiveness of the heart pumping blood throughout the body, which can lead to complications such as a build-up of fluid in the chest and abdomen Life Expectancy Husky Labrador Mix dogs have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. Check out our list of best dog foods for your senior dog for our recommendation of dog foods for older dogs. How To Train Your Husky Lab Mix Huskadors inherit a lot of intelligence on both sides, so they are smart dogs that are highly trainable, but they can be stubborn. For this reason, domination and punishment should never be used. It can cause these stubborn pups to dig in their heels and refuse to cooperate. The best way to train Husky Labrador Mixes is through positive reinforcement and reward. They are people-pleasers so they find this highly motivational. While these pooches are naturally sociable, it is a good idea to socialize them from a young age, especially with children. This helps them learn the care they need to exercise when dealing with smaller humans. They will also probably need to be trained to control their likely Husky-inherited tendency to bark. They will meet you halfway, but you need to fulfill your side of the bargain. Husky and Labrador mixes make great pets for families, as they will quickly become members of the family and get on well with kids. A family also often means lots of people in and out of the home to spend time with them. But they are perfect for anyone with a highly active lifestyle looking for a dog that can accompany them on all of their adventures. They will have no problems taking on challenging trails, being out and about all day, and even going in the water. So this is the ideal dog for someone who has the time and energy to give them a lot of love and attention. They will thank you with the same in return. This means you can meet the parents, which can help give you an idea of what kind of character the puppy will have. The breeder will also be able to share medical records with you, which can give you advance warning about the types of medical conditions your new pooch is prone to developing. If you are adopting a more mature Huskador, spend some time with them to see what they are like. As Husky Lab Mixes are still a relatively new breed, they are also relatively expensive. History of the Breeds Siberian Husky More closely related to wolves than many modern dog breeds, Huskies have long been sled dogs used in colder regions. They are bred for strength, swiftness, and to withstand cold temperatures. Their unique wolf-like look and friendly nature mean they are also extremely popular as pets. Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers were brought from Newfoundland to England in the 19th century and then trained and bred as hunting dogs. They are highly intelligent and love being around people, working, and pleasing their humans. This is why they are often used as assistance dogs, as they are both hard workers and incredibly loving and loyal. Yes, Husky Lab Mixes are excellent dogs, as they are intelligent, highly trainable, friendly, and loyal, plus they are great with children and strangers. If they are under-stimulated, they can have a tendency to act out, chewing and digging. Huskadors generally grow to between 20 and 25 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 60 pounds. If you would like a dog on the smaller side, choose a female, as they tend to be smaller than their male counterparts. If your Husky Lab Mix is playful and energetic, this is a sign that they are happy. When they start to become lethargic, this is often a sign that there is something wrong. The Verdict When you mix a Siberian Husky and a Labrador Retriever you get a very attractive dog that is also loveable, loyal, and a joy to have around. They are the ideal pet for families and anyone looking for a companion for their active lifestyle. These dogs do need a lot of love and attention and can suffer from separation anxiety. But if you invest in your Huskador, it is impossible to put a price on the unconditional love and companionship they will give you in return. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labsky Highlights The Labsky is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Labrador Retriever or Siberian Husky parents. Labskies were first bred intentionally in the s. The Labsky is a medium- to large-sized dog with high energy. Labskies tend to love people and human contact. They are usually very friendly. The Labsky has a double coat that requires daily brushing. Their fur can come in white, black, yellow, brown, red and grey, and many times the coat will be a mix of colors. Labskies can have a high prey drive and might be best suited to homes with pets of the same size. The mixed breed dates back to the s, although their original country of origin has not been established. The Siberian Husky has existed for over years, and originated in the cold climes of Alaska and Canada. The Labrador Retriever has a history as a gun dog and was first developed in Newfoundland in the 19th century. These days, the Labrador Retriever has become recognized as one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and frequently ranks as the most popular dog breed of all, according to the American Kennel Club. Even though the Labsky looks like a fancy, high-end designer dog, many of them end up in shelters so consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you! Most weigh in at 40 to 60 pounds and range in height from inches. Labsky Personality Many Labsky lovers like to describe their dogs as very loyal and exceptionally active. With high energy levels, the Labsky thrives on long walks and will always be interested in physical play sessions. If you have access to lots of outdoor space near to your home, the Labsky will prosper and approach life with much vigor. At home, Labskies are seen as loving and loyal dogs who seek out company and enjoy being around people. A Labsky enjoys mental stimulation, and interactive toys can help keep the dog interested and alert. These dogs very much enjoy being around family and prosper in an environment with a lot of human contact. Labsky Health Labskies are generally farily healthy. The Labsky breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Siberian Husky and Labrador Retriever also face. It is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Labskies suffer from include: Eye conditions. Your Lab Husky should also visit the vet regularly. You can then wean if off that brand slowly and introduce new food while steadily increasing the ratio. To ensure your Lab Husky mix cub gets all they need to grow up big and strong, try one of the best puppy food brands or some of the best dry dog food for small dogs. A Husky crossed with Lab pup should be fed three to four times daily. Once it hits six months, feeding can be dropped to just two times a day. Keep feeding your dog with puppy dog food until it turns a year old. This is because this feed is designed to have more protein, something that a growing puppy needs. Once your pet turns a year old, it should then be fed about 2. That is when you can switch to the best dry dog food that undoubtedly all adult doggos enjoy. It contains ocean fish meal, salmon, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and peas. Give this to your dog if you want it to have a shinier coat. Nutro Max Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food: One of the best makers of dog food today, Nutro Max uses fewer ingredients in its feed to reduce the number of digestive issues a dog might develop. It uses real chicken as its main source of protein. Once your pooch reaches a certain age, their bones and overall health become more frail, and they need food that can give them all the necessary nutrients. We have ample suggestions of the best senior dry dog food brands that you could offer your aged pooch. They will also benefit from additional vitamins and minerals, so we suggest including the Nutra Thrive dog food supplement in their diet as well. Your Lab Husky mix will need regular exercise to stay fit and burn off excess energy. This dog needs a long walk twice a day. It also enjoys running around the park and playing Frisbee. This crossbreed has a natural affinity to water and loves to swim. Its webbed paws make it a natural in this activity. Any interactive game will suit this dog perfectly. Families with an active lifestyle and those who love the outdoors will be good matches for the Husky Lab mix. You can even take it hiking or camping. Labs have a particular gene that has been linked to weight increase. This hybrid dog will thrive in homes with a yard where it can run freely. It also loves digging holes so you might have to rearrange your garden. Keep your dog engaged and entertain with these toys — KONG Extreme: Kong toys never fail, and this extreme version of a beloved toy will keep your Lab Husky mix happy for hours. Fill it up with treats, stand back and watch your dog chew on it for hours. Nina Ottoson Dog Tornado: This interactive toy is a bit pricey but well worth the expense. Trixie Dog Activity Chess: This toy will reward your dog with snacks in exchange for its smarts. Hide treats within the movable pieces to keep your pet busy. Your dog will have a great time knocking the ball around or playing fetch with it. It also squeaks, so the more auditory-inclined canines will be interested. Mammoth Flossy Chews: Your Husky Lab hybrid will love tugging and playing this cotton blend, three-knot toy. It comes in different sizes, including an extra large one for massive and strong dogs. Husky Lab Mix Training Obedience training is a must with a Husky Lab mix, and it should start as soon as you bring your dog home. This training will help you develop a positive relationship with your pet while also enabling you to remain in control. A Husky Lab is a very intelligent canine, and a responsible and patient owner can train their Huskadors themselves. This will go easier if the lessons are done at an early age. Fortunately, this stubborn streak can be tempered with heaps of positive reinforcement and repetition. Socialization training is also crucial for this dog. Make sure you start socializing your puppy as soon as you bring it home. Invite your friends over or take your pet to different places. The idea is to let it interact with various people and animals. To make training easier, consider the following tips: Positive reinforcement is best. This is a better strategy with this breed. Do not punish your dog for not obeying your commands or forgetting its training. Set up regular playdates. Playing with others do is a way to keep them entertained, socialized, and mentally engaged. Invest in puzzle toys. Make sure you have lots of engaging toys and puzzles on hand. Labrador Husky Mix and Families A Lab Husky mix is a great family dog, as long as everyone is on-board with the proper way of handling and training it. Consistency is key to ensure this dog is trained and socialized properly. This dog suits all types of owners, from single households to families with small children. But you have to make sure you have the time and energy for this dog. You should ask yourself if you have the patience and dedication needed to provide it with the best possible life before getting one. This magnificent dog is not the pet for busy employees or those who are away from home for long hours. The Husky Lab mix is a unique dog and a fantastic companion. It needs someone who will love it back; someone who will dedicate the time and effort to ensure its physical and mental requirements are met. Its parents have a significant contribution on how it behaves so, start the process by looking at the background and origin of the Labsky. A husky lab mix is a designer dog produced by its two parent dog breeds, a Labrador Retriever and Siberian Husky. Designer dog means that the dog is a crossbreed between two purebreds. In this case, the crossbreed will not only inherit the looks from its parents but the characteristics and temperament as well. Labradors play particular roles that can be helpful for the community. About Labrador They are trained to aid people with disability. They have a charming personality that allows them to serve as a therapy dog. Labs are widely used in law enforcement agencies and other organizations in different parts of the world, mainly in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. These groups use Labs as retriever-gun dogs. Their particular capability makes them suitable for hunting and sporting activities. Take note that Labradors vary in appearance and behavior, which is categorized into two types: English Labs are breeds that are more trainable, making them suitable for people who want a dog to accompany them during hunting. American Labs are more energetic, allowing them to be chosen to participate in field trials. They have a leaner body and longer legs compared to their counterparts. Labradors either have a chocolate, black, or yellow coat. These breeds are sometimes mistakenly called Golden Retriever, but take note that the latter has longer hair compared to Labs. Furthermore, the Labrador Retrievers weigh between 65 to 80 pounds for a male, and 55 to 70 pounds for a female. These breeds also require less maintenance because they only shed hair twice every year and may sometimes exceed during temperate climates. They can even get along with kids and families easily. This breed originated in Siberia in Russia. Most people use the Siberian Huskies in hunting and even in transportation by training them to pull sleds. Their loyalty enables them to feel closer to families and kids quickly. Unlike the Labradors, the Siberian Huskies have medium body size. Male huskies weigh 45 to 60 pounds while females are between 35 to 50 pounds. They also have a thicker double coat than the other parent breed of Husky Labs. Erect ears characterize them with markings. These breeds are also known for being energetic. Their thick coat allows them to withstand harsh weather conditions and frigid temperature, but it is also the reason why they need weekly grooming. Commonly, they have patterned colors on their body. Their paws, legs, tail, and face may be covered with white markings, and the rest of their body is black. Their coat could also be a combination of copper-red and white or white and gray, and in some cases, just pure white. You can rarely find a Miniature Siberian Husky with an agouti coat, which means that the body has other band colors. Their nose could be pointed or square, and their tails have very thick fur. Unlike other dog breeds that bark, this one usually howls. Considering the temperament of both parent breeds, husky lab Mixes are known to be energetic, which requires them to get plenty of exercises and an active lifestyle. They also need mental stimulation to make them entertained. They are people-oriented, which is beneficial for family members most especially if you have kids at home. It is recommended to expose them to socialization to reduce their anxiety and make them calm whenever they saw people or other animals. Bringing them for a long walk every morning is an excellent exercise for them. Other activities that will help them stay active are hiking, romping, and running. You can teach them these things most especially if you are training them to compete in sports. It reduces your stress in cleaning your home, and you can also save money from bringing it at the dog parlor. Brushing their coat about two or three times a week is enough to keep their skin beautiful. The average life span is 11 to 13 years, and between these stages, you will discover the milestones that your pet can experience. Take note that being a dog owner is also the same as parenting a child. It requires focus, determination, patience, and effort if you want to establish the dog with the character that you want it to possess. Although these breeds have natural traits and personality, it is still helpful to help them develop them. Before you decide to adopt a husky lab, make sure that you are entirely equipped with the life stages of this breed. It is the period that you need to take extra care of your puppy. Some of the body organs of the husky lab are not yet fully developed, so you need to be gentle when you want to hold them. It is also the time that these breeds are blind and deaf yet. The husky lab Mix have a delicate body during the neonatal stage. That means that they need to be kept beside their mother to obtain body heat. Most of the time, you can see them sleeping or being fed by their dog mom. You will also notice that their parent frequently licks them. It is a way for the dog to help their puppies eliminate. Their ears will open, allowing them to respond to sounds around them. They can also see a bit of light as they open their eyes. This time, they can already eliminate on without seeking help from their mother. Also, their mobility starts to be developed. You can see them striving to crawl since their strength is not yet enough for them to walk. They may sometimes try to stand up, but their force is not yet intact to carry their body, leading them to stumble. The husky lab will also start to recognize their parent and siblings. Small teeth will also grow, but it is not yet advisable to give them food to chew. However, you still need to be mindful when sudden loud noises occur because it can scare the pets or worse, it can even affect their development. You should continue to help them in the socialization process. As soon as they recognize people and other pets around them, they slowly show interaction. Their senses will help them see things clearly and respond to them. It is also a crucial stage for them because their razor-sharp teeth are beginning to lose. This development may happen between three to six weeks. The puppy will experience teething before he gets permanent teeth. READ - Five Amazing Things About the Teacup Pomsky 4 to 7 weeks — Socialization stage Since they can already recognize people and other species around them at the earlier stage, now is the time for them to socialize. Their siblings can contribute to their development during these weeks. It is also essential for them to interact with people for them to understand and follow the discipline being taught. This stage is also essential for both the Husky Lab and its mother. It is the perfect time for the mother dog to wean her puppies. Weaning is crucial because her milk supply is starting to dry up. You should also take note that you play an essential role during this process. You must hold the puppies from their mother dog for a few minutes a day as one way of training them to socialize. Let them mingle with their siblings so they will get used to it. It is also the perfect time to start feeding them. Let them eat in a clean pan. In this way, you are training them to eat independently. Since it is the first time that you are going to let the puppies eat food while it is also a growth period for them, it is essential to choose high-quality food specially formulated for them. Their teeth are not yet stronger enough to bite hard foods, so make sure to moisten it with warm water before giving. Take note that the process is new to them, so it takes patience to feed them with different food. If you think that your effort is not working, you might want to try other food flavors that are appealing to them. Some puppies may be picky eaters, while some dislike the taste of the food. Also, only give them a small amount at the start to avoid wastage. It is also crucial to keep in mind that this stage is not the best time to separate the puppies from their mother. Separating them at an early age will make them bark or bite because they will feel threatened and nervous. However, they are still sensitive to loud noises, making them feel threatened or terrified. That means that their socialization training should continue until this period. Worst is, they will have a traumatic experience when they are not taught properly, or specific scenarios are not controlled. One of the best ways is to avoid creating loud noises or threatening them. Also, prevent harsh discipline or rough play because it will let them learn to bite. Do you know that you can also train them through simple commands or words that they can easily recognize? Teach them actions like stay, sit, come, and down. In this way, you are also training them to follow instructions. The development of your husky lab puppy continues on this stage. You can notice that the pet will start to have better control of its bowel. His sleeping pattern is also changing, wherein he will have a better sleep at night. Keep in mind that husky lab puppies are prone to diseases during this stage. Therefore, you should make sure that their cage or sleeping area is always clean. Make sure that you have completed their entire vaccination to keep them safe from any illness. Despite this fact, you still need to impose the commands that you used to teach them. You might also feel stressed during this stage because it is also the time when your pet is starting to bite things like rugs, couch, or grasses. Instead, say no gently and buy them toys that they can play with. It is the time when they show their eagerness yet they could sometimes be bratty. It is normal for them to show confidence when you teach them anything most especially that they feel independent. They may bite, or you might get hurt if they are forced to counteract with you. Teething may also be stressful for them because they would find ways to relieve the pain they feel. To help them cope up in this stage of their life, give them soft toys so that they play with it and they have something to use to relieve the pressure. Keep them away from the things that they might chew. It is their way of finding relief, but you need to make sure that they will not go to places where they might swallow even a tiny object. It is dangerous for their digestive system and health. Since one of the parents of the husky labs is husky, you should expect that this type is difficult to housebreak. It is not surprising when the puppy adapts this trait as well. However, you should continue to make an effort to house train the pet. Reward him or give him praises when he learns to defecate or urinate outside the home. Although the personality and character of the husky lab mixes are slightly developed in this stage, you must still teach him the right attitude like being obedient and calm when strangers or other animals passed by. This breed is known to be energetic; therefore, you must allow him to do plenty of exercises and activities that will help develop his body tone. It is the period in which they have learned a lot of things. They are energetic and love to spend time playing with their siblings. However, you still need to take care of them to prevent them from getting injured. Now that you have established their mental and emotional maturity, you can now increase the training period and other activities that you want them to learn. It could include herding or agility. Although both parent dogs of the husky labs have hunting and sporting skills, it is still essential to train them consistently. In that way, they will learn how to use their natural skills correctly, and you can also enhance their performance at the same time. Commonly, the husky lab Mix stop their development stage before they reach their first birthday. As they become nine months old, you can also notice that their height increases while their body is leaner. Paying attention to their growth will guide you on how to train and teach them basic and advanced skills that they can use when they reach their full adulthood, which is between two to 2. Generally, male husky labs reach their full size when they are 36 months. They also mature emotionally until they are about two years old. It is why it is always recommended to teach your dogs the socialization and emotional aspects so that you can establish it before they get mature. Also essential to supply your Dog with supplements and nutritious foods during its development years. It is an excellent way for you to prevent diseases from attacking your pet. Remember that sickness can reduce the life span of this dog breed, so it is excellent when you boost his health. Make sure that you only choose high-quality foods that contain vitamins and minerals he needs to strive. They may inherit the diseases from their parent dogs, but you can still do something to prevent the occurrence of such illnesses. If you can do all of these guidelines, you are giving your pet a healthy and enjoyable lifestyle. Finding a healthy Husky Lab mix puppy. Labs are working dogs , born with a job to do. As you might guess, that job typically involves the second word in their breed name — retrieving! These dogs were bred to work closely with hunters to flush out and collect downed prey. Labs are loyal human-focussed dogs. They make for fun-loving, affectionate, and playful pets. Huskies are working dogs too. Historically, they helped out with hunting and gathering food, firewood, supplies, and other necessities. These dogs were bred specifically to cohabitate and collaborate with people. Overall, they make for wonderful, loyal pets and guard dogs. But as he grows up, each day will bring new surprises. Only time will tell which breed-specific traits he has inherited from his Labrador Retriever and Siberian Husky parents, respectively. Your Husky Lab mix full grown may weigh anywhere from 40 to 60 pounds. He is likely to be athletic and powerful. Both parents grow up to about 24 inches in height, so you can expect a medium to large dog. He may have facial and body features that lean more towards the Lab or the Husky. He could have brown eyes, blue eyes, or even one of each! Coats and Colors Labs are well known for their different coats, and mixing a Lab of a certain color with a Husky could lead to a Huskador that has a dark coat. Shedding and Grooming The Labsky dog tends to shed. A lot. The reason for this is simple: the Siberian Husky grows a double-thick coat as protection against the freezing Siberian climate. This means that even a Lab Husky mix who inherits more Lab traits will still shed more than your average Labrador, although likely less than your average Husky. Now, if your dog inherits more Husky traits, you can look forward to a jaw-dropping level of shedding at least twice a year as your pup sheds his thick undercoat and prepares to regrow it. But regardless of which end of the shedding spectrum your pooch tends towards, the best way to control Lab Husky mix shedding is to brush your dog regularly. You can use a tool called an undercoat rake to make the shedding process much more comfortable for your dog and more manageable for you. Take time once or twice per week to groom your dog. This will give you some control over when and where the hairs fall out. Also, it gives you some regular enjoyable bonding time with your pup. Husky Lab Mix Temperament Lab Husky mix temperament is where you will find the most uncertainty, since any puppy can tend more towards the temperament of one parent breed or the other. Your puppy may exhibit a calmer Labrador temperament or a more high-strung Husky temperament. While they are likely to be smart, Husky Lab mix puppies could take after the Lab parent and be a quick, eager learner during training. Or they could be more stubborn and even inconsistent, like the Husky parent. A Huskador puppy could also have a more reserved personality, like a Husky. Alternatively, you could end up with a naturally exuberant Lab-leaning pup that reminds you of the canine star of Marley and Me. Labs tend to bark only as needed. Huskies, on the other hand, tend to bark at anything and everything. Your pup could fall anywhere in between the two. Digging is another issue , as Huskies are big on digging. Labs are known for chewing on anything they can find, which could also be an issue for your Siberian Retriever. He will likely be very loyal and somewhat protective, however. Socialization is an important part of raising a well-behaved member of any breed or mix. From the day you bring him or her home, have plenty of visitors to the home. Take your Huskador to a number of different locations to familiarize him with other environments. Try to get your pup to meet as many different people, vehicles and animals as possible. Socialization is important to the well-being and good behavior of every breed, even ultra-friendly Labs. Huskies, as mentioned, tend to be a bit more reserved, so socialization is vital for this mix. Training and Behavioral Traits For decades, dog training was all about establishing the pack leader. Leading trainers taught that there were only two choices: either your dog was the alpha, or you were the alpha. However, we know differently now. For a dog, there is no such thing as alpha, or dominance, or pack leader, or even anything similar to any of these concepts. As long as you provide your dog with his daily required resources, your interspecies family life is likely to go quite smoothly overall. In fact, the purebred Siberian Husky breed is known to exhibit some of these traits far more frequently than purebred Labrador Retrievers. This can make training more challenging and time-consuming if your Labsky puppy tends more towards the Husky side of his parentage. But whether such behavioral traits show up in your puppy or not, these behaviors are never about winning dominance over you or becoming the pack leader. These traits are either inbuilt breed-specific characteristics, or fear-based responses to perceived scarcity of needed resources. Ultimately, your puppy is dependent on you for every need that he has. Understanding this can eliminate your concern over alpha-type struggles. Huskador Exercise The Husky Lab mix comes from two active, energetic, working dog breed parents. Boredom can be a real problem for these dogs, as they are literally bred to stay active all day, every day. Often, they perform very physically demanding jobs! So you can pretty much count on the need to keep your Siberian Husky Lab mix dog active and busy. Otherwise, she may develop her own itinerary of fun activities to pursue. Lab Husky mix dogs also have webbed paws and a natural love of water. Swimming is a great activity for them. So is any game of fetch that involves retrieving a bobbing toy from the water. They also love to run and will eagerly enjoy long runs off-leash if your situation permits. Lab mixes are at risk of hip dysplasia, so be careful with younger dogs and keep their exercise at appropriate levels. Health and Care A Lab and Husky mix puppy may inherit known health issues from either the Labrador or the Husky gene pool. Therefore, it is critical to conduct health testing when selecting a designer dog puppy. This is the only way to know if breed-specific congenital health issues may be present. Each breed may have health issues that are inherited or acquired along the way. Labrador Retrievers are prone to a few health issues that can be protected against in future generations through health testing. The most prevalent are hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as progressive retinal atrophy. Siberian Husky dogs are known to be prone to a few health problems including cataracts, glaucoma, arthritis and heart problems. Predicting Life Expectancy Generally speaking, the Labrador Retriever has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. The Siberian Husky, in turn, has an average lifespan of 11 to 13 years. These statistics would indicate a Lab and Husky mix might live anywhere from 10 to 13 years, which is generally considered an accurate lifespan range for these designer dogs. We recommend reaching out to these rescue societies to ask about any Huskador dogs in need of adopting. Here are a few to get you started.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Arizona Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Arizona? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Arizona? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. They are affectionate, obedient and loyal to a fault. Originally bred as a hunting dog for retrieving waterfowl it makes an ideal pet for any type of family. They make a great family dog because of its patience, versatility, and adaptability. A golden retriever is super easy to train because of how smart and devoted they are to their owner. Goldens are gentle and playful with children and other pets, making them a perfect family pet. Their coat comes in various shades of gold and is dense, waterproof and may be wavy or straight. Discover more about our Golden Retriever puppies below! Interestingly, the Golden Retriever is very calm and relaxed indoors despite its hunting roots. However, they immensely enjoy activities, such as carrying objects around in its mouth and a good game of catch. The breed is faithful, obedient and easy to train. Golden Retriever Disposition The Golden Retriever does best when kept inside with the family, though it needs daily exercise. The Golden Retriever is very playful. Not surprisingly, it lives up to its name as a great retriever, excelling in games of catch and carrying objects around in its mouth. While it enjoys active time outdoors, the Golden Retriever is calm indoors — making it a great household pet for anyone. They do especially well with kids too. This breed is highly regarded for its love of human companionship. It is faithful, obedient and picks up easily on new commands. The Golden Retriever is among the easiest breeds to train. Its enthusiasm for learning new tricks and the ability to quickly and easily understand new commands makes it a pleasure to own and train. See store for details on this particular puppy. American Canine Association.

This sweet creature, unfortunately, gets a bad rap because of its past and because of owners who raise Pit Bulls improperly and for inappropriate reasons. Despite being originally bred for fighting, playful Pitties excel in being companions, working dogs, and service dogs. As long as you properly train and socialize your APBT, it will get along well with kids and other pets. The American Pit Bull Terrier With a height that ranges from 17 to 21 inches 43 to 53 cm and a weight that can reach up to 60 pounds 27 kgs , the Pit Bull has a muscular and proportionate body with floppy ears and a long tail. Pitties are also famous for their irresistible smile, which gives this dog a happy, expressive face. The Boxer Bred as an ancient war dog, the Boxer is another muscular and powerful dog that is said to be great with families. As a natural jumper, the playful and energetic dog needs an owner with a lot of patience who can provide him the exercise, training, and socialization he needs. A Boxer puppy It has a short muzzle and full, round eyes, and looks confused or curious in an irresistible way. With a short, sleek coat, this dog has a height between .Boxers, without a doubt, are loving dogs. Does this hybrid look more like Pit Bull or the Boxer? Their appearance is unpredictable, but one thing you can be sure of is that Pitoxers could have more attributes from one parent compared to the other. How big will a Pitbull Boxer mix get? Male and female Pitoxers can grow to 17 to 20 inches 43 to 51 cm and 16 to 19 inches 41 to 48 cm in height, respectively. Males have an average weight range of 60 to 80 pounds 27 to 36 kg while females can weigh between 50 to 70 pounds 23 to 32 kg. The beautiful Pitbull Boxer Mix This medium-to-large dog has a broad head and chest, short muzzle, long legs, and a short, smooth coat. Its coat comes in all sorts of colors, but the most common ones are black, brown, yellow, and tan. With their short hair and lack of double coat, they are sensitive to extreme weather conditions. During summer, stay away from intense heat by taking your Boxer Pit mix out early in the morning or at night. They also have a fun-loving, even-tempered nature, so they usually fit in well with most families. Boxer Pitbull mixes generally have a more stable temperament and are less aggressive. They like staying close to their pack, so many of them are affectionate and loyal companions. The key is to reduce the likelihood of aggression in the Boxer Pit mix is proper training. You can keep your Pitoxer from turning into an overprotective guard dog by introducing him to as many animals and people as you can. If they are socialized at a young age and are treated with love and respect by the people around them, these crossbreeds can be such a joy to have around. A good dog is a reflection of its owner, and how your Pitbull-Boxer cross turns out depends on how you raise it. Does this pup look like a scary fellow to you? How does the Boxer Pitbull Mix behave around other pets like cats? If a Pitoxer puppy gets proper socialization, it will grow up without having trouble getting along with the other pets that you have in the house. Yes, even with cats. Taking in a full-grown Pitbull Boxer Mix is a different matter. Prepare for a potentially problematic situation between him and the other pets, especially cats and smaller dogs. Be gentle yet consistent in teaching your dog commands. Use rewards and lots of praise to encourage him to be obedient. Punishing your pet is likely lead to result in aggression. Do these hybrids shed fur? Brushing his coat once a week is enough. You can use a bristle brush or a grooming mitt for ease. Unfortunately, the coat of the Pitbull Boxer mix is not hypoallergenic due to its moderate shedding. You can bring them to the vet or a reputable groomer once a month for ear check-ups, too. Big breeds like the Boxer Pit need 2 cups of dry dog food a day, split into two or three meals. If your dog has an average level of activity, they would need around 1, to 1, calories a day. Aside from food, make sure your Boxer Pit mix has clean drinking water at all times. Providing the exercise these crossbreeds need Coming from strong, muscular purebred parents, the Pitbull Boxer mix requires a lot of physical activity. Help your Boxer Pit mix release his pent-up energy through 2 hours of physical activities per day. Once you notice that your dog is starting to slow down and pant, give him a 5-minute break and give him some water to hydrate and cool-off. Make sure to give your dog the exercise it needs. Insufficient physical activity can lead to frustration which means barking, digging, and destruction. These are tips for a full-grown Pitoxer, though. Health problems that the Pitbull Boxer Mix may get You might think that giving your dog enough exercise and keeping an eye on his diet should keep him healthy enough throughout his lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Though these hybrids are generally healthy, they can still be susceptible to the health conditions that affect their parent breeds, such as:. Brindle 2. She needs plenty of exercise and lots of play! Given that both the Boxer and the Pitbull were bred for use as working dogs, these breeds are very energetic, so your Boxer Pitbull Mix requires a lot of exercise. This is what a well-exercised Boxer Pitbull Mix should look like: The Boxer Pitbull Mix is very playful and will need lots of toys at home. Careful, though! With her strong jaw and love of chewing, this dogs can destroy a chew toy within minutes. When you take her out, take a ball or a Frisbee to play fetch. She will love it! You should take her out for a brisk one-hour walktwice a day. If you are running, twenty minutes to half an hour should be enough. If your dog tires you will notice her slowing or beginning to pant excessively you should stop for a five-minute break and hydrate her. I recommend taking out a collapsible doggie bowl in which you can give her water. A note on exercising your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy This advice on exercise applies to the adult dog only, as when large-breed puppies do too much running and ball-chasing this can cause long-term injuries. With your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy, it is best to do lots of short walks and indoor play until she matures, at about 1 year — 16 months. Watch this 11 week old Pitbull Boxer Mix. She is curious, playful, active, and absolutely, jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Whatever the weather — not with this dog! In rainy weather, she will need a doggie coat to keep her warm. During summer months, it is best to take her out in the early morning or the evening when the sun is less intense. She may still need sunscreen, but make sure you purchase one without zinc oxide, as it is toxic for dogs. The Pitbull is also a very affectionate dog when well-socialized, who will lick you all over if you give her an inch. She was in fact bred for both work and companionship , and due to her gentle nature, is beginning to be used more and more as a therapy dog. Both Boxer and Pitbull are also great with children , which makes them excellent family dogs. The Boxer is very patient and protective, while the Pitbull is solid, a people-pleaser and highly trainable. So mix them together and what have you got? A companionable, affectionate dog who fits in perfectly with a family, wants a lot of attention and gives in return. It is, of course, worth noting that as puppies they are going to be more hyper, and so their contact with children must be supervised. Also, your dog must be well-exercised to be around children, as if not she will be incredibly excitable and could knock over a small child. Her guard dog instinct is strong, which can be useful if there is an intruder or attacker. These are courageous dogs who used to risk their lives baiting bulls, so have no doubt that she will defend you and yours if necessary. If this instinct gets out of hand, however, it can become a problem. You must make sure that you socialize your Boxer Pitbull Mix from a young age with as many people as you can. Invite friends and neighbors to your home and provide her with a positive association by having the person give her a treat when they arrive. As long as you train her well and stay consistent, this dog will be the friendliest dog around. She might be too hands-on for older pets Providing they are both socialized properly, both breeds can get on well with other animals, particularly Boxers. As for play style, Pitbulls can be rough and Boxers like to use their front paws when playing much like a boxer… oh, that makes sense! People are also beginning to look past the negative stigma around Pitbulls and realize their high intelligence and trainability, too. Director of Operations at Universal K9 claims that out of the hundreds of dogs he has trained for police work, the Pitbull, Kiah, is one of the top three he has ever placed. These dogs can be stubborn, though, meaning that you need to be firm and consistent with them. As long as you are in charge, your Boxer Pitbull Mix should pick up basic commands quickly. Make sure you do enough repetition and provide rewards and lots of praise. As puppies, they are boisterous and energetic little characters. You will need to be assertive in order to get their focus. She is a moderate shedder Though these dogs have a short coat, they are moderate shedders and will require a good grooming session once a week. They will probably lose more fur in the Spring, from April through May, so it may be a good idea to brush her twice a week during these periods. She will also need her ears checked monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. She is usually healthy but has some potential health concerns The Pitbull Boxer Mix is generally a healthy breed, as both pure breeds are as long as she gets sufficient exercise, of course and as I mentioned in the intro it can live for up to 13 years. Having said that, it is always worth being informed on any potential health issues this breed can develop, so here are the main ones your dog could be prone to: Cancer While the majority of Boxers are healthy , they are at risk of an aggressive form of cancer called hemangiosarcoma , which occurs in the blood vessel cells. It can be difficult to detect, but signs can include weakness, a distended abdomen, difficulty breathing and weight loss. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible, as this cancer can spread rapidly. Hip dysplasia This condition consists of a malformation of the hip joint, where it is unstable or loose in the socket. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals shows that this condition occurs in both breeds , although Pitbulls are more susceptible. Severe cases can lead to arthritic joints and lameness. Signs can include walking or running with an altered gait and reluctance to fully extend their rear legs or jump. Weight control helps enormously with this condition; keep her slim, as any excess weight will put stress on her joints. Heart disease The Boxer is prone to a heart problem called aortic stenosis , which in most cases of the disease the dog is born with. This disease causes narrowing of the aortic valve, which puts pressure on the heart. Symptoms can include rapid breathing or difficulty breathing, sudden loss of consciousness, and congestive heart failure. If your vet picks up a heart murmur, the diagnosis can be confirmed with an X-ray and a cardiac ultrasound. Allergies Pitbulls can have various allergies , so your Pitbull Boxer Mix may be susceptible. They can be treated with antihistamines, and in the case of skin irritation, you should use shampoos specifically designed for sensitive skin. Conclusion Are you a family with children without any older pets? Are you ready to dedicate your days to plenty of exercise and play with your new lively companion? Can you give her the consistent training she needs? If the answer is yes to all of the above, you are more than ready to own a Pitbull Boxer Mix, and she will be more than happy to have you. Have you got a Pitbull Boxer Mix and a story to share? Comment below! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Had her posted on the local shelter site but no takers. We have a year-old Chihuahua and 8-year-old Yorkie so keeping the new dog inside is not possible. For a temporary measure we put a cardboard box with lots of pillows and blankets warmed in the dryer on the porch swing. It has since warmed up into the range. She appears to be happy running around outside and sleeping on the porch swing near the now chewed up box. We have ordered a dog house for her and are having her spayed tomorrow. We are a late middle-aged couple but I hope to be able to walk with her at least once a day. I hope you can wish us well for rescuing her. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bullboxer Pit Highlights The Bullboxer Pit is a mixed breed dog. Bullboxer Pits may tend to overeat. Owners must be diligent about monitoring diet. Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. The most regularly seen coat colors are brown, tan, yellow, and black. Although their coats are easy to maintain, Bullboxer Pits do shed all year long. Brushing can help. Due to their exercise requirements, physical strength, and need for training, this breed might not be best for novice dog owners. Boxers came on the scene in Germany back in the s; the dogs were often used to transport supplies and ferry messages to troops during the first two World Wars. The American Pit Bull Terrier was first employed in blood sports and used in baiting bears and bulls. The first ever Bullboxer Pits can be traced back to a German dog breed called the Bullenbeisser, which is now extinct. Due to the care and attention Bullboxer Pits require from an owner, many of them can end up in shelters. Bullboxer Pit Size The Bullboxer Pit is often described as a medium-sized dog, although they are also stockier and sturdier than many other middle-sized canines. Most weigh in at 50 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 20 inches. Female Bullboxer Pits can often be a little smaller than their male counterparts. Bullboxer Pit Personality Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. These dogs can be especially devoted to their families, and often become very protective of any children in the household. Very upbeat walks—or even jogs—are required, so the owner must also be able to maintain a healthy and regular exercise routine. Around two hours of exercise per day is required—adding agility training or even swimming to the daily sessions can help vary things up. Apartment dwellers may find that many buildings do not permit Bullboxer Pits to live with them. Some of the more common health problems Bullboxer Pits suffer from include: Obesity due to overeating. These large dogs are a loyal and energetic companion for any family and their intelligence makes them playful and fun to be around. They may look like their Pitbull parent or they make look like their Boxer parent. One thing we can be sure of though is that, with the right socialization, these dogs are an excellent family member. Breed Origin It can be difficult to know where the Pitbull Boxer Mix originated from, so we can take a look at the parent breeds in more detail to understand the origins of this dog. The Pitbull parent in the Pitbull Boxer mix can actually be any of four types of Pitbull. The Pitbull was created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull and bear baiting. They were thought of as aggressive fighting dogs but it was also known that they were very gentle with humans and made excellent family dogs. The Boxer was also originally a fighting dog and was used by the Germans to chase and hold down bear, bison and wild boar. However, as time went on, they began to diminish in size and therefore became much better suited to family life, thus becoming a family pet. Characteristics Of The Pitbull Boxer Mix As we have mentioned above, it can be difficult to know the exact characteristics of the Pitbull Boxer Mix because they may take after one parent more than the other. However, we can make assumptions based on past litters. You must make sure you are buying from a reputable breeder. Appearance Taking a look at the parent breeds will give a good indication as to what your Pitbull Boxer Mix may look like when fully grown. The size of the Pitbull Boxer Mix depends on which type of Pitbull was used to breed. The American Pitbull Terrier is the largest breed of Pitbull and will produce the largest dogs. Coat The Pitbull Boxer Mix has a smooth, short coat as this is the type of coat both their parent breeds have. Luckily, they do not require much grooming, but we will go into more detail about that later on. However, they can come in a wide range of colors, including black, red, white, grey, blue, brown and tan. Temperament The Boxer Pitbull Mix is a loyal and lovable dog that loves to be around people. Super playful, these pups just want to be outside with you, playing games and accompanying you on hikes. If you need to leave them for more than 3 hours at a time, then it is a good idea to employ a dog walker or sitter to look after your friendly pup! These dogs are very intelligent, which is one of the reasons they love to play. Also because of their intelligence, they can get bored very easily. They must be kept entertained otherwise they can get frustrated and begin to exhibit signs of unwanted behaviors. It is a common misconception that because both parent breeds were originally fighting dogs, that the Pitbull Boxer Mix is an aggressive breed. This is not true. You will need to train and socialize your Pitbull Boxer Mix, but they are certainly not violent and really just want to be loved by you! Often, these dogs can feel it is their duty to protect their owners and can make good watchdogs and guard dogs. They will bark when they feel something is out of place or if there is a threat, so this is something to watch out for! Lifespan The Bullboxer has an average life expectancy of between 10 to 14 years. Known Health Issues Unfortunately, as with any breed of dog, the Pit Boxer Mix is at risk of inheriting the same health problems that their parent breeds are predisposed to. Below we have laid out the main health concerns that this breed face. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Aortic stenosis — this is a heart defect that is often found in large dog breeds. It can be treated with medication. Cardiomyopathy — this is an enlarged heart with poor function. It can be helped with medication. Degenerative myelopathy — this is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. There is no cure but there is treatment. It can be helped with intensive physical rehabilitation. Allergies — the Pitbull Boxer can be prone to allergies from a range of causes such as food and pollen. It can lead to scratching and other skin infections. Thyroid issues — this is common in Boxers, who can have either an overactive or underactive thyroid. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we know all about the traits and characteristics of the Bullboxer, it is time to take a look at what daily life with one of these dogs is really like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. This means that the amount of food you will be feeding them will vary. You should always check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount you should be feeding them of a particular food based on their weight. On average, a dog of this size with the same activity level will need roughly calories a day, which is about 2 cups worth. This should be split into at least two meals a day. This food you feed your Pitbull Boxer Mix should be a high-quality kibble. It should contain a good source of protein so that they can stay active. Take a look at the dog food we recommend below. The recipe features real meat, garden veggies, and fruit plus whole grains and LifeSource Bits rich in antioxidants. It also features ingredients that support healthy growth and development for a growing pup. Natural sources of chondroitin and glucosamine are the building blocks of healthy joints and cartilages ideal for mobility. It is packed in vitamins and minerals with antioxidant benefits for lifelong health and happiness. This kibble made for large breed adult dogs also features Iams DHA Gold to promote mental sharpness and alertness and also to encourage healthy cognitive ability. It is crafted with prebiotics for healthy digestion and strong defenses. Puppies and adult pooches have diametrically different nutritional needs, and senior canines require kibble that is gentle on their aged teeth and stomachs. We suggest you pick one of our recommendations for the best puppy food brands and the best senior dry dog food and see how your pup responds. Who knows? Given that your Pitbull Boxer is neither big nor small, they may like the taste of the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food alike, so you might want to offer them both kinds! Pitbull Boxer Mix Exercise Requirements The general advice for most dogs would be to train them while they are young. But in the case of your Pitbull Boxer cross, you have to very cautious. Puppies of large-breed origin that exerts too much energy from running or playing can cause injuries that may last his lifetime. For puppies, activities may be limited to regular short walks or play until it has reached a certain maturity, around one year up to 16 months. As it gets old, the daily exercise requirement will also change. For an adult Pitbull boxer, minutes of exercise should be adequate to maintain good health. It is a very energetic hybrid so they will thrive in a lively environment. An ideal home would mean lots of space to move around, inside or in the backyard. Some states enforce restrictions with regards to Pitbull mixes like your pitbull boxer, so you have to keep it on a leash while out exercising. Using a leash will also prevent them from running into or jumping into everyone they encounter. They are most happy walking around in the city or the Dog Park or even trudging in the mountains. Another essential thing to consider is the weather. During the rainy season, your dog will need a raincoat to protect her from the rain and also to keep her warm. Sunscreen can be used but avoid products with zinc oxide, as it is a poisonous substance. The jacket provides full chest coverage, and the solid print is stylishly chic. The elastic leg straps and adjustable fastener guarantees a snug band comfortable fit. It also features reflectorized stitching so you can see your dog even at night. It is guaranteed durable — it features a galvanized cable and coated with crack-resistant vinyl. It should be able to withstand up to 7x the weight of your dog. My Dog Nose It! Pitbull Boxer Cross Training The combination of Pitbull and Boxer is explosively stubborn, so it is a suitable pet for someone with a firm and unyielding grip in training and socialization. And as always, your dog will react and respond best with positive reinforcement, rewards, and incentives. Punishment will never work, and more often than not, will only create or aggravate behavioral problems. It is essential to reward your pet to encourage positive behavior. Early socialization and training from puppyhood will form the foundation of a well-adjusted dog. Training your Pitbull Boxer should be a piece of cake because of their ability to pick up commands. To get their focus though, you would need to be tough and establish yourself as the master and make him obey you. We listed some training activities you can try out with your petpal: Behavior Training — How do you train him to stop barking mad? Constant practice will help you achieve the desired effect but never shout at him even if he continues to bark. Also, allow him to learn commands other than barking. Keep in mind that the goal is to reward your pup for being silent. Chores Training — Teach him to fetch your newspaper for you. Playing fetch with a toy or a ball should prep your dog for this activity. All you have to do is replace the toy with the newspaper and tech your Pitbull boxer how to get it, pick it up or bring it back to you. Fun Training — Rollover is one activity designed with your big Boxer Pitbull in mind. Start with getting your dog to lie down, and eventually how to roll over. Make sure you reward each action accordingly, and of course, practice makes perfect. Pitbull Boxer Combination And Families The Pitbull Boxer will become accustomed to any family dynamic most especially when trained well and socialized correctly. Their energetic and sometimes rowdy nature can knock off small bodies, so be extra careful if you have kids. There are specific training designed to help you manage this kind of behavior. Check with your local authorities with regards to the legal status of Pitbull mixes in your area. Find out if your Boxer pitbull mix is banned or restricted. Not only will they thrive in large spaces to allow lots of movement, but they will also want owners who will dedicate their time to train and socialize and to love and care for them. Reach out to your vet for more information on a proper Bullboxer Pit care. Pitbull Boxer Mix Grooming And Shedding The most important factor is that these dogs are low shedding and low maintenance. They seldom require many products and it means getting trims on a daily basis is not needed. The Bullboxer Pit sheds moderately. Unreasonable shedding indicates some sort of a health issue. Use a brush and comb their loose hair. Bathing is recommended once in a fortnight or when suggested by your vet. A soft bristle brush or a curry comb is enough. Medicated shampoos are needed if skin disorders are present. If your dog consists of the wrinkles and facial folds of the Boxer, then examine the muzzle and face area on a regular basis. Prevent the growth of bacterial infestations, fungal, and red yeast due to drooling problems. These dogs need safe moisturizer and need attention to stop cracking and drying. Start this habit early as some hybrids can be stubborn about getting their feet touched. Brush their teeth once daily and provide them with dental treats. This will keep their gums strong. Clip their nails and clean their ears regularly. Hire a professional groomer if you are unsure of anything. The most crucial thing is that you should follow and adopt consistent training. Experts suggest early training for this breed because of obesity issues. They have the potential to become abnormal chewers. This need not adhere only to cushions, shoes, or anything including food. The Bullboxer Pit is a kind and loving dog when they are left with their family members and the same does not work with other strangers or animals. A properly socialized Bullboxer Pit will offer unconditional support to other pets. A brilliant watchdog, this dog is always active and alert. When a Bullboxer Pit senses a stranger close by, it will bark loudly to alert the owner. Pitbull Boxer Mix Exercise A pretty strong dog with a brilliant and strong physique which requires a complete lot of exercise, Bullboxer Pits is here to stay. They need exercise to maintain their health and form. This dog appears very alert and agile and seems to behave hyper. It might move around without your permission. The Bullboxer Pits are suitable for families with kids because of their affection, friendliness, and energy. For those who already lead a physically active lifestyle, then this Pitbull Boxer Mix is the right choice. These dogs are developed to be a strong dog with gameness and tenacity. This dog needs its daily dose of exercise. They love activities including agility training , flyball, swimming, jogs, and brisk walks. Experts normally do not suggest this large dog breed for apartment living. They can become obese if left unsupervised. Sticking to the feeding schedule can help stop that. If not given proper medical care, these pets can turn critically ill. Hip Dysplasia — This refers to a condition wherein the socket and ball joint of the hip is malformed. Cardiomyopathy — Cardiomyopathy is a condition which affects the heart. Sudden heart failure or fainting can occur. Some dogs can also develop congestive heart failure. Aortic stenosis — Aortic Stenosis is a disorder where the aortic valve reduces in size and this valve manages the blood flow to the important aorta ventricular Some of the minor health issues include Allergies — If you notice signs of allergies in your pet , do these things- Try dietary changes and nutraceuticals Ear cleaning Topical treatments and bathing Contact your vet Demodectic mange — This condition is caused due to an itchy, red skin infection. Demodex Canis mite lives ideally on dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy — A progressive disorder of the spine mostly found in older dogs. This disorder can lead to progressive paralysis also. Pitbull Boxer Mix Food These are big dogs and you can easily expect them to eat large quantities. In order to keep them strong and healthy, Bullboxer Pits are fed with the best quality dry food. Check the label for any preservatives or artificial flavors. If you find these ingredients in the dog food, put it back- Wheat Gluten.

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. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bulldog Overview The Bulldog, a beloved and iconic dog breed , holds a special place in the hearts of many, with a history that spans centuries. With a history dating back to the 13th century, Bulldogs have evolved into the lovable and devoted companions we know today. Their journey from the bullbaiting pits to becoming cherished family pets is a testament to their adaptability and resilience. This breeds appearance is instantly recognizable, with its distinctive features and unique physique. Their short-muzzled head is massive and square, adorned with dense wrinkles that add to their endearing charm. These wrinkles serve a functional purpose, helping to protect their eyes and funnel moisture away from their face. Bulldogs have a muscular and low-slung body, coupled with a sturdy build and broad shoulders, giving them a powerful and determined appearance. Despite their strong physique, Bulldogs are surprisingly gentle and docile, making them excellent companions for families, including children. Their stocky legs and wide chest contribute to their distinctive gait, often described as a waddle rather than a typical walk. This amusing gait, combined with their snorting, snoring, and grunting habits, endears them to their owners and adds to their unique charm. Their devotion to their families knows no bounds. They thrive on human companionship and seek out attention from their owners. While Bulldogs are generally calm and dignified, they are also known for their courageous and protective instincts. Despite their sweet disposition, they will not hesitate to defend their loved ones if they sense any threat. Their loyalty and devotion to their family members are unmatched. Bulldogs are prone to respiratory and joint issues due to their distinctive facial structure and stocky body. Their popularity has grown steadily over the years, and they have become cherished pets in households worldwide. Their adaptability to various living situations, including apartments and family homes, has contributed to their status as a favored breed for many families. Their unique appearance, combined with their loving and devoted temperament, make them stand out among dog breeds. Whether they are representing school mascots or snuggling up with their owners on the couch, Bulldogs continue to win hearts with their irresistible charm and lovable character. For those seeking a canine companion filled with loyalty, love, and a touch of quirkiness, the Bulldog is an exceptional choice that will undoubtedly bring joy and affection to their home for years to come. Bulldog Highlights Bulldogs, with their charming and endearing personalities, are known for being a bit stubborn and inclined to laze around. As they mature, their enthusiasm for walks may wane, but it remains essential to provide them with daily exercise to maintain their physical fitness and overall well-being. In warm weather, Bulldogs can struggle to tolerate heat and humidity. Keeping a close eye on them when outdoors is crucial, as signs of overheating should not be ignored. Many caring owners find relief for their furry friends by offering kiddy play pools filled with refreshing water in shaded spots, creating a relaxing oasis for Bulldogs to enjoy while everyone is outside. Conversely, Bulldogs are also sensitive to cold weather. During chilly days, providing them with appropriate protection, such as cozy blankets or insulated jackets, will ensure their comfort and safety. As affectionate as Bulldogs are, their distinctive wheezing, snorting, and snoring sounds are part of their charm. Yet, these adorable noises can sometimes be accompanied by sleep apnea , a condition that requires attention and care from their loving owners. Bulldogs have also earned a reputation for their occasional bouts of flatulence. While this is common among the breed, excessive gas may warrant a visit to the vet to ensure there are no underlying health concerns. Due to their characteristic short noses, Bulldogs are prone to respiratory ailments. Some may even have pinched nostrils, making breathing more challenging, and in severe cases, surgical correction might be necessary to alleviate their discomfort. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for Bulldogs, as they have a propensity to be greedy eaters. Without careful monitoring of their food intake, they can easily become overweight or even obese, which can lead to various health problems. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential to keep these charming canines fit and happy. When it comes to reproduction, Bulldogs face unique challenges. Their relatively large heads and front structure often necessitate caesarean sections for safe delivery of their puppies. Therefore, breeding Bulldogs requires experienced and responsible practices to ensure the well-being of both mother and offspring. Discussing this matter with the veterinarian beforehand is essential to ensure their safety and well-being. In the quest for a healthy and well-adjusted Bulldog, it is vital to avoid obtaining puppies from unethical sources like backyard breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Instead, responsible pet seekers should seek reputable breeders who prioritize genetic health testing and good temperaments in their breeding dogs. With proper care, attention, and love, Bulldogs will flourish as devoted and cherished members of their families. Their unique personalities and delightful quirks will undoubtedly win the hearts of those fortunate enough to share their lives with these lovable and affectionate companions. By embracing the responsibility of providing for their specific needs and ensuring their happiness, Bulldog owners can look forward to years of joy and companionship with these endearing canine friends. Bulldog History The Bulldog of today stands in stark contrast to its ancestors, descended from ancient mastiff-type dogs and exclusively developed in England. It was an incredibly popular spectacle, captivating audiences in a time before professional sports, television, movies, or video games. The early Bulldogs were taller and heavier than their modern counterparts, selectively bred to excel at this gruesome activity. Their short, flat noses allowed them to breathe while maintaining their grip, and their tolerance for pain was heightened to endure the demanding battles. The wrinkled skin on their heads even had a practical purpose, redirecting blood away from their eyes during the gripping struggle. No longer bred for aggression, the Bulldog faced a transformation. Dedicated and patient breeders set their focus on the temperament of the breed, selecting only dogs with docile and gentle personalities for breeding. Over time, this re-engineering process successfully transformed the once ferocious Bulldog into the affectionate and amiable companion we know today. The journey to rehabilitate the Bulldog was not without challenges. In , the first Bulldog breed club was formed, but unfortunately disbanded after just three years. However, the tenacity of Bulldog enthusiasts prevailed, and in , The Bulldog Club of America was founded, establishing a new standard for the breed. This standard underwent revisions and adaptations, eventually gaining acceptance in and remaining in use to this day. As Bulldogs were brought to the United States, their popularity began to grow steadily, leading to their recognition by the American Kennel Club in .Throughout the s and s, Bulldogs enjoyed popularity, ranking close to the top 10 breeds. Today, they proudly stand as the 12th most popular breed among the registered by the AKC, a testament to their credentials as beloved companions. The transformation of the Bulldog from a once feared and ferocious creature to a friendly and tranquil companion stands as a testament to the human ability to rehabilitate and refine an entire breed through thoughtful and dedicated breeding practices. The once-feared Bulldog has evolved into a loving and cherished member of countless families, a triumph of human compassion and dedication. Bulldog Size A medium-sized breed, Bulldogs are known for their sturdy and compact build. Mature male Bulldogs usually weigh around 50 pounds, while females tend to be slightly lighter at approximately 40 pounds. For show dogs, the weight may be slightly higher, often adding about 10 pounds to their size. Despite their weight differences, Bulldogs maintain their iconic charm and distinctive appearance. In terms of height, Bulldogs typically stand between 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder. Their low-slung bodies and stocky frames give them a unique and endearing look. Despite their relatively short stature, Bulldogs exude confidence and presence, captivating everyone they encounter with their charming demeanor. Their compact size and well-proportioned bodies make Bulldogs agile and adaptable, making them excellent companions for various living situations. Their gentle and loving nature, combined with their unique physique, ensures that they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide. Whether as devoted family pets or show champions, Bulldogs leave an indelible impression wherever they go, becoming beloved companions to those lucky enough to have them by their side. Their mere presence is enough to deter any would-be intruders. Temperament is influenced by various factors, including genes, training , and socialization. To ensure your Bulldogs grow up to be well-adjusted dogs, early socialization is key. Expose them to a range of experiences, people, and environments during their formative months. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is an excellent way to kickstart their social education. Regularly inviting visitors and taking them to busy places will help them polish their social skills, turning them into delightful and well-rounded companions. With a blend of charm, courage, and affection, Bulldogs are truly one of a kind, canine confidants that will undoubtedly bring endless joy to your life. Bulldog Health Like all breeds, Bulldogs may be susceptible to certain diseases and conditions. Choosing a responsible breeder increases the likelihood of getting a healthy Bulldog, as they ensure vaccinations and deworming for their puppies. Responsible breeders use physically sound, mature dogs, testing them for genetic diseases relevant to the breed. The following conditions may affect Bulldogs: Cherry Eye: Cherry eye is a condition in which the gland under the third eyelid protrudes, creating a red, swollen appearance that resembles a cherry in the corner of the eye. While not typically painful, it can cause discomfort and potential irritation for the dog. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to reposition the gland and alleviate the issue. This can result in discomfort, redness, and a blue haze over the cornea. Veterinary consultation is essential to diagnose the condition accurately and provide appropriate eye drops or ointments to manage the symptoms effectively. In severe cases, corneal damage can occur. Surgical correction is often recommended to reposition the eyelids and prevent further complications. Inverted or Reverse Sneezing : While not a health problem per se, inverted or reverse sneezing is a common occurrence in Bulldogs. It happens when nasal fluids drip down the soft palate, causing a temporary closure of the airway. Owners can soothe their Bulldogs during these episodes by gently massaging their throat or offering a distraction. Brachycephalic Syndrome : Bulldogs, with their short heads and narrowed nostrils, can suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, which results in obstructed airways. This may cause noisy or labored breathing, especially during exercise or warm weather. Severe cases can lead to respiratory distress and even collapse. Head Shakes: Head shakes in Bulldogs can resemble fits but only affect the head. They are involuntary movements from side-to-side or up-and-down, possibly linked to stress or low blood sugar levels. If the shaking is unrelated to excitement or stress, a prompt veterinary visit is advised to rule out any underlying health issues causing discomfort. Timely veterinary attention is crucial to manage the condition effectively. Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a heritable condition in which the hip joint is improperly formed, leading to poor fit between the thighbone and hip socket. Although Bulldogs often show signs of hip dysplasia on X-rays due to their naturally shallow hip joints, they may not always experience significant lameness or pain. Proper weight management and controlled exercise can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of joint problems. Tail Problems: Some Bulldogs may have abnormal tail formations, such as screw tails or inverted tails, which can cause skin problems. Keeping the tail clean and dry is essential to prevent infections or irritations associated with these tail types. This can cause lameness, an abnormal gait, or even joint arthritis over time. Treatment options range from conservative management to surgical correction, depending on the severity of the condition. Bulldog Care Having a low to moderate energy level, bulldogs are well-suited for indoor living. They prefer a relaxed lifestyle and are content with about 15 minutes of play before needing a nap. This adaptable energy level makes Bulldogs suitable for various homes, from apartments to houses with yards. A mile or two walk during cooler times of the day is sufficient, but even a short stroll along your street brings them joy. Due to their brachycephalic pushed-in face structure, Bulldogs are sensitive to extreme hot or cold weather. They tend to breathe heavily and struggle to dissipate heat, making them susceptible to heatstroke, especially in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Providing a cool, air-conditioned environment and ensuring access to fresh water is crucial for their well-being. Another important consideration is their inability to swim due to their heavy heads. In terms of training, Bulldogs may not excel in obedience trials, but they are highly capable learners. They have an excellent memory and respond well to fun training sessions that involve repetition, positive reinforcement, food rewards, and praise. Patience and consistency are key to successful training with Bulldogs. Bulldog Feeding Feeding your Bulldog the right amount of high-quality dog food is essential for maintaining their health and well-being. However, the exact portion your adult dog needs depends on various factors, including size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Dogs, like people, are unique individuals, and their dietary needs can vary. Opting for high-quality dog food is crucial as it provides better nourishment, reducing the quantity needed to meet their dietary requirements. Be cautious not to overfeed your Bulldog, as obesity can strain their joints and lead to health issues. You can do this with the hands-on test by feeling their ribs without having to press hard. For more detailed guidance on feeding your Bulldog, consider our guidelines for choosing the right food , feeding puppies , and feeding adult dogs. Proper nutrition is vital for a happy and healthy life for your beloved Bulldog. The head is adorned with heavy wrinkles, and there are two loose folds forming a dewlap from the jaw to the chest. Bulldogs come in various colors, including red brindle, other brindles, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow pale cream to light fawn, pale yellow, or yellow-red , and piebald large patches of two or more colors. Solid black is less common and not highly admired in this breed. Daily cleaning of their face is essential, paying special attention to cleaning inside the wrinkles. Dry the wrinkles thoroughly after washing, and consider using baby wipes with lanolin and aloe vera for gentle cleaning. Bulldogs are moderate shedders, and regular brushing can help reduce hair on clothes and furniture. Other grooming needs include nail care and dental hygiene. Brush their teeth at least two or three times a week to prevent tartar buildup and bacteria. Regular grooming sessions also offer an opportunity to check for any sores, rashes, or signs of infection on their skin, ears, nose, mouth, eyes, and feet. The ears should smell good without excessive wax or debris, and the eyes should be clear without redness or discharge. Bulldog Children And Other Pets An amiable temperament and sturdy build make Bulldogs a wonderful companion for children, including young ones. Nevertheless, if they ever get tired of being tormented, they will simply walk away, showcasing their sensible judgment. Teach them to be gentle, respectful, and considerate towards their furry friend. Supervising any interactions between dogs and young children is of utmost importance to prevent any unintended mishaps, such as biting or pulling of ears and tail. No dog, including the gentle Bulldog, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. While Bulldogs are known for their amiable disposition, any breed of dog may react unpredictably to certain situations. Therefore, adult supervision is vital to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the dog during their interactions. Beyond their affinity for children, Bulldogs exhibit a pacific nature that extends to other pets, including dogs and cats. Their sociable demeanor makes them generally great companions for various household animals. However, like any dog, Bulldogs may display some reserve or caution when encountering unfamiliar dogs. Proper introductions and gradual socialization can help Bulldogs become more at ease in the presence of other canines. By teaching kids how to approach and interact with dogs respectfully and under adult supervision, the bond between Bulldogs and their human and animal companions can thrive in a harmonious and loving environment. Bulldog Rescue Groups Often, Bulldogs are acquired without a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities involved, leading many of them to find their way into rescue groups seeking adoption or foster care. However, opting to adopt an adult Bulldog presents several compelling advantages. Adult dogs frequently come with pre-existing housetraining and basic obedience skills, making the transition into a new home smoother. Moreover, they have already outgrown the boisterous puppy phase, sparing potential adopters from dealing with the inevitable mischief and destruction associated with young pups. Their affectionate, outgoing personality is what most people love about this breed. Bulldogs bond with almost any kind of person, young or old, boisterous or quiet, and are not known for aggressive behavior. Bulldogs are truly social creatures. But their favorite social interaction of all is curling up next to you on the couch. They will pout and sulk if they feel rebuffed, making some hilarious faces in the process. Once you give them the attention they crave, Bulldogs immediately slip into silliness and roll all over the floor with excitement and paw at you for more. But Bulldogs can be stubborn, too. But their skin is a different issue. Use a damp cloth or a baby wipe to clean underneath all the hanging skin, especially the wrinkles around the nose and tail, and then be sure to dry the exact same areas; moisture can create bacterial breeding grounds. Look for signs of skin irritation as you go, and, if you notice any redness or flaking, talk to your vet. They may recommend applying a soothing ointment to the areas for a few days while keeping an eye on the condition. If they have skin problems, talk to your vet about bathing more frequently. Be sure to start grooming your Bulldog puppy as soon as they come home to get them used to being touched and groomed. Speaking of paws, be sure to keep their nails trimmed. You may need to trim them about once a month. Oh, and good treats, of course! Bulldogs are just not that into obeying you. Bulldogs can learn all the important commands—sit, come, stay, leave it—to keep them safe. Use positive reinforcement treats, cuddles and special toys to reward your Bulldog for listening. Pup parents say that once a Bulldog learns a command, they never forget it. As with all breeds, early socialization with other dogs is key for Bulldogs to learn how to, well, be a Bulldog! Dogs teach each other when and how to play and when to back off. Make sure the food you choose meets the nutritional standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials. You might have read that Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. Unfortunately, their facial structure leads to a condition called brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS and causes breathing difficulties see the Health section for more information. But BOAS can trigger digestive issues, too, including vomiting, gagging or regurgitation. To lessen these issues, feed your Bulldog small amounts at a time they are speedy eaters who will gulp down whatever is in front of them in seconds! Bulldogs are prone to obesity, which makes the symptoms of BOAS worse. Talk to your vet about an appropriate feeding schedule for your Bully and their appropriate weight. Your vet is in the best position to help you pick the best food for your pup based on their individual needs. Exercise The breathing difficulties caused by their flattened snouts makes vigorous and extended exercise a no-go for Bulldogs. Although they will get a burst of energy and run around in circles from time to time aka the zoomies. Overexertion—especially in hot weather—can actually be dangerous for this breed. Three easy-going, minute walks a day, mixed in with a few dog-park play sessions or doggy playdates throughout the week is plenty. Be sure you schedule these in the cooler parts of the day and avoid the heat at all costs. Other than that, Bulldogs are content to stay inside, making them great apartment dogs for city living. Oh, and Bulldogs love to play tug-of-war! So stock up on tug toys and play a quick game—it counts as exercise! When it comes to the safest, most comfortable environment for this breed, it comes down to one thing: air conditioning. Other than that, Bulldogs are adaptable and social pups who would love to be in a home with lots of people—kids and babies included—to give them attention. They even get along well with aloof cats! That said, Bulldogs can be just as happy bonding with one doting pet parent. Back to Top Bulldog Health For all the fantastic things there are about the Bulldog, there is one drawback. Their overall health is not that great. Years of breeding for the pugilistic-looking flat face have created myriad problems for the English Bulldog. Either way, it is important pup parents are aware of these health concerns so they can help their Bully stay healthier, longer. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome: BOAS is an inherited condition that almost all Bulldogs have to some degree due to their short muzzles and the shape of their heads. Keeping your Bully at a normal weight is one way to help them breathe more easily. If their breathing problems are more severe, surgery may help. Soft-palate surgery opens up the breathing passages allowing your dog to breathe more easily. Skin Infections: Bulldogs are prone to developing skin infections in their delightfully wrinkly skin. It is essential you clean and dry their folds every day. Signs of infection may include increased itching or scratching, a bad odor or a greasy or really dry coat. If you do suspect your pup has a skin infection, get to your vet pronto! Your vet can determine the best course of action, most often a topical medicated cream. Eye Issues: Cherry eye looks like a red or pink bulge in the interior corner of their eye. It occurs when their third eyelid swells and is out of place and is sometimes due to weakened connective tissue or inflammation. There are surgical and non-surgical treatments depending on the severity. Bulldogs also suffer from entropion, a condition in which the eyelid rolls in and rubs the eye, causing irritation. Entropion can be treated by surgery; if left untreated, blindness may occur. Birth: One of the distinctive traits of the English Bulldog breed is their massive head. More often than not, Bulldog puppies are born via c-section to safeguard the puppies and the mother. Back to Top Bulldog History Were you once a college athlete who now gets winded bringing the laundry upstairs? Though their precise origins are unclear, Bulldogs most likely originated in England and may have descended from ancient mastiff-like breeds. This brutal practice was gruesome and bloody for both the bulls and the canines; naturally, it became a popular spectator sport. Gamblers bred Bulldogs for vicious temperaments and shorter and shorter snouts, which could latch on to the bull more easily. Thankfully, bull baiting was outlawed in .By this time, the peculiarly cute, compressed faces of the Bulldog had won the hearts of the English people, who continued to breed them for their looks, not their aggression. Shortly after, Bulldogs were brought to America, where the American Kennel Club recognized them as an official breed in , and the Bulldog Club of America was formed in .Today, most of the qualities that made Bulldogs such successful bull baiters have been bred out of them. Their lovable personalities make them the fifth most popular breed in the country. Their flat faces, though, continue to be popular symbols of pluck and determination: Bulldogs serve as a mascot for many high schools, colleges and universities think Yale University and the University of Georgia , Mack Trucks, and the US Marine Corps. He is characteristically big-boned, goofy, and full of love. Although they were originally bred as fighting dogs—and later became a worldwide symbol for toughness and tenacity—the bulldog evolved into a gentle, family oriented dog who just wants to watch the world go by from the comfort of his bed. You're also likely to see this handsome breed on TV, patrolling the sideline at a college football or basketball games, or in the movies, famously trying to keep an inflated Aunt Marge from floating away. It's no wonder you find them everywhere, the bulldog is the fifth-most popular breed in America. They're beefy boys and girls. A staple trait is their huge underbite, and sometimes the pups will " hang a fang. English bulldogs sit low to the ground and have wide shoulders, two characteristics that behooved them in their dog fighting history. They can be any combination of these with additional brindling, ticking, or black masks. Their eyes should always be dark brown or black. You won't confuse an English bulldog for the other members of the bulldog family. The French bulldog is smaller and has tall bat ears. The American bulldog is an athletic all-purpose working dog with longer legs and a leaner body made to guard, hunt, or farm. The Olde English Bulldogge, a larger, more muscular mix of English bulldogs, pit bull terriers, American bulldogs and bullmastiffs, is the least common bulldog. Temperament A bulldog's temperament is far more friendly and goofy than he may look. Although they're intimidating physically, bulldogs are actually extremely family and kid friendly. The more positive interactions they have with new situations, the better off they'll be. The bulldog is rarely aggressive. In fact, he's almost dopey. He doesn't always understand what you're saying, but he's kind and earnest in his ways. Their low energy level means they can thrive as apartment dwellers. They certainly don't need a huge yard to run and romp, as they'll get tired after 10 minutes of playing and need a snooze. The bulldog absolutely loves children and will put up with all the noise, yanking and tugging that come with them. They'll never show anger; they'll just walk away if they feel bothered. This breed doesn't bark a ton, but they make great watch dogs that can frighten someone off with their appearance alone. They are also known for having courage, and will protect their loved ones no matter what. Bulldogs prefer a slow life lounging on the couch or squeezing onto your lap yes, even at 50 pounds. They are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a wide skull and a flat face that can make exercise tough. Their heavy heads and chest make them poor swimmers and they should be watched closely around water to avoid drowning. Care A bulldog's coat is very fine and short, so they only require brushing once a week. The more you brush, the less hair you'll find on your furniture and clothing. More important than brushing is keeping his face clean and dry—with so many wrinkles, they can get irritated or infected if not cared for properly. Trim his nails once a month or so, until you can't hear him click-clacking on the floor. Weekly or daily teeth brushing will prevent future vet visits down the line. While the bulldog doesn't care much for exercise, he still needs it to maintain a healthy weight, as he is prone to weight gain. A daily walk around the neighborhood during the cooler hours will wear him out, as will a quick play session. He would much rather be cuddling with his child companions or taking a nap in the AC. Consult your vet about the right food for your bulldog, and monitor that food intake to prevent weight gain. Bulldogs are better off with two measured meals a day rather than leaving the bowl out all the time. If nobody stopped them, they'd keep eating. Because they can be lazy, bulldog owners need to have focus and patience with their puppy. Once he learns something, he will remember it, especially if treats are involved. That short, bullish stature can give way to joint or respiratory difficulties. The brachycephalic bulldog can get overheated quickly, so he shouldn't be left in enclosed warm spaces and must be monitored outdoors. Always have plenty of water, shade, and access to AC for your bulldog to reduce the likelihood of heat stroke. History The modern day bulldog is quite the turnaround from his ancestors. In the 13th century in England, bulldogs were used for the sport of "bull baiting," the AKC writes. Before we had professional sports, spectators would gather and bet money on this inhumane practice. One or multiple bulldogs would attempt to pin a bull to the ground using their powerful bite. These early bulldogs were slightly taller and more muscular than today's English bulldog, and only the most aggressive were bred. The AKC writes that the bulldog's tenacious character stems from their history in the ring, because they developed a high pain tolerance and kept fighting until the last second. It wasn't until that bull baiting was outlawed in England, and bulldogs faced extinction without that purpose. Many people admired the strength, determination, and appearance of the breed, and didn't want to see them die out. Luckily, there were breeders who dedicated their lives to re-engineering the bulldog. They used only the even tempered dogs to reproduce, until only the docile were left. In , the English bulldog was recognized by the AKC. The dog that originated in England has come to symbolize their people. And, well, he looked like a bulldog, too. Today, the bulldog is known as one of the most gentle, kid-friendly dogs in the world. President Warren G. Harding also had a bulldog in the White House, Old Boy. Yale was the first university in the United States to adopt a mascot—a bulldog named Handsome Dan. Today, dozens of colleges and universities use a bulldog as their mascot. Otto, a bulldog from Lima, Peru, set a world record in " the longest human tunnel traveled through by a dog skateboarder. Was this page helpful? But he is also referred to as English Bulldog or British Bulldog to distinguish him from other bulldog-type breeds such as the French Bulldog or American Bulldog. Despite his gloomy mug. Bulldog puppies are frisky, but adults are quiet and rather phlegmatic, spending much of the day snoring on the sofa. But they definitely need some exercise to stay fit, preferably walks in cool weather. Some English Bulldogs are friendly with strangers, while others are politely reserved. Though not a barking watchdog, his blocky build and his rolling, shuffling gait give intruders pause. It takes a tremendous amount of serious teasing or threatening to provoke this sweet-natured breed, but once aroused, he can be a force to reckon with. His tenacity and resolve mean that it's difficult to change his mind once he decides to do something. Usually peaceful with other pets, some male Bulldogs may engage in a battle of wills or jaws with other males. Though stubborn, the English Bulldog is surprisingly sensitive, remembers what he learns, and responds well to patient, persistent training. If you want a dog who.Is moderately-sized — built low to the ground but very heavy Has a short easy-care coat that comes in many colors Is easygoing and dependable with most of the world Doesn't need much exercise and spends much of the day snoring on the sofa Seldom barks An English Bulldog may be right for you. If you don't want to deal with.Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Bulldogs have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up. Despite their sweetness, most English Bulldogs are very stubborn. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say. On the plus side, once Bulldogs mature, they seldom get into real trouble. To teach your Bulldog to listen to you, see English Bulldog Training. Possible animal aggression. Most Bulldogs get along very well with other pets in the family. However, some Bulldogs may act aggressively toward other dogs of the same sex. And some Bulldogs do not get along with cats. Be aware that English Bulldogs can be very possessive of their food bowl. Don't feed an English Bulldog in the presence of other animals. Children should also be kept away, just to be safe. Bulldogs shed more than you might think! Their short, coarse hairs stick tenaciously to your clothing and furnishings. Bulldog sounds. Though they don't bark much, English Bulldogs are far from silent. Because of their deformed face, they go through life snorting, snuffling, wheezing, grunting, and snoring loudly. Some people find these sounds nerve-wracking; others find them endearing. I'm sure if it was up to the dog to choose, he would prefer to breathe normally. Most people are not prepared for how much English Bulldogs slobber and drool, especially after eating or drinking. Gassiness flatulence. All short-faced breeds gulp air when they eat, and that air has to go somewhere, after all. However, commercial diets make flatulence worse by including fibrous or hard-to-digest ingredients. Bulldogs who are fed a homemade diet of real meat and vegetables have much less trouble with gassiness. High cost. They explain that this is to cover their costs of artificial insemination because most Bulldogs are too deformed to be able to mate without assistance and C-sections because the puppies' heads are too over-sized to be born normally. But that's just the beginning of your money outlay, because typically you'll be spending a great deal of money on veterinary care for this breed. Serious health problems. It's been said that if you feel like supporting your vet with great chunks of money, get an English Bulldog. They suffer from hip problems, heart problems, and skin problems. Their respiratory system is compromised, so it's even risky to anesthetize them for dental cleanings. In hot weather they should be kept in an air-conditioned environment and supervised during outside activity so they don't over-exert themselves and become overheated. I don't recommend buying an English Bulldog puppy, as that only encourages people to keep breeding unhealthy puppies. If you really want this breed, please consider adopting an adult Bulldog who desperately needs a home. Provide the best life you can for him, managing his health problems as they occur. You can ward off some health issues by following the advice on my Bulldog Health Page. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. This breed was prized in the arena for his strong bite, aggression, tenacity, and ability to withstand attack and escape mostly unscathed due to his loose, wrinkly skin. Thankfully, dog fighting has been deemed illegal for a number of years, and the English Bulldog is now a more docile pet, which has helped give them an enduring appeal. This breed is consistently among the top 5 most popular dogs in the American Kennel annual rankings, only ranked behind Golden Retrievers , Labrador Retrievers , and German Shepherds. Over the years, English Bulldogs have gone from being gladiators to the couch potatoes people know and love today. They are also very brave, loving, and extremely loyal to their owners, but in addition to these amicable traits, Bulldogs also has a tendency to be stubborn and strong-willed. English Bulldogs are inherently stubborn and have been known to be downright willful. Unfortunately, many owners will only enable this behavior, because it can be pretty darn cute, but this should be avoided as much as you can help it. Yet despite these behavioral traits, you should still attempt to train your dog as much as it will allow. They especially need to know that you are in charge, but you must do this through positive reinforcement methods. Bribery in the form of food may be the only way to motivate your Bulldog, so make sure to always have treats handy. Guard Dogs A Bulldog is an effective guard dog just based on his appearance alone, but he can also deter unwanted visitors through his temperament. A Bulldog is actually rather intimidating when he senses a threat and can cover short distances surprisingly quickly. He can be fiercely protective of his family, and will spring into action if there is an intruder. Part of the reason he makes such good guard dogs is because he is incredibly strong. In fact, the English Bulldog is pound-for-pound one of the strongest dog breeds in the world. He is a very muscular dog underneath those wrinkles, and you will be unlikely to ever defeat them in a game of tug of war. For this reason, English Bulldog owners often use a harness instead of a collar, allowing for more control. While this can manifest as aggression with poor training or handling, in the well-raised English bulldog, these traits can become positive ones, making the dog very loyal and loving with his family, and forming lifelong bonds with the people that he loves and trusts. The best way to temper this behavior is to socialize your English Bulldog puppy with other dogs early on, and take him to puppy kindergarten as well so he can learn to interact with other dogs in a controlled setting. Exposing him to other dogs early on should make him more accepting of other animals as he grows up, so make sure you socialize your dog with a cat , another dog, or other animal as much as you can. Protective Of His Food One area where an English Bulldog can still show some aggressive tendencies is around his food. He will fiercely guard his meals and snacks and will not be willing to share with other pets. Since he loves food so much, he will also be a beggar or scavenger, so you should never leave him alone around your food nor allow your children to give him scraps from the table. Bulldogs are naturally stocky and muscular, and are very food motivated. The English Bulldog Temperament Overall The English Bulldog actually has a background as a fighting dog, which gives the breed strong shoulders and scowling faces. But years of careful breeding has tempered down their aggressive tendencies, and in spite of being strong willed, they are very eager to please, and will be devoted companions. Those that have been trained early on, despite their resistance, and have also been introduced to other animals at an early age, will be more likely to have a nice dog they can bring anywhere. An English Bulldog does make a great family pet despite their aggressive past, and is known just as much for their patience and affectionate nature around children as their bravery. Make sure to always supervise your children around your English Bulldog just to be sure. Your child needs to learn to be gentle with your dog just as much as the other way around. English Bulldogs can be a bit protective of their family when strangers are around, and some can be slightly hostile toward unfamiliar dogs. However, most can be compatible with other pets, especially if they are raised together with other animals. Just remember to keep your pups food bowl away! While this breed does require some activity to help them avoid becoming obese, English Bulldogs make great apartment dogs because they are also happy to lounge around. With a rather lazy disposition, English Bulldogs love a good snuggle and will be happy to nuzzle you on the couch all day. Many love to roll on their backs and have their bellies rubbed, and they will generally take as much affection as you are willing to give. This breed should not be exercised hard or in hot weather. He is prone to overheating and their short noses make it difficult for them to breathe. That being said, you should regularly walk your Bulldog to keep him in shape, as he does have a tendency to become obese, which can lead to many other canine health issues. A Bulldog is well-suited for apartment living because they just need a nice spot to sleep while you are away during the day, and are generally highly inactive. This breed does enjoy playing with humans and other dogs, but are terrible jogging partners, as they are among the slowest of dog breeds and have next to no stamina. As you might guess, when your Bulldog is done walking, he will just stop and let you know. The English Bulldog Personality The famous English Bulldog laziness makes them one of the most laid-back breeds around. Puppies will have a bit more energy and can get a little rambunctious, but adults are extremely mellow, and love naps, food, and belly rubs more than anything. English Bulldogs are a dependable, gentle, dog that makes great family pets, and are much more into people than other dogs or animals. English Bulldogs tends to be a slow learner, but once he learns something, it will stick. And the English Bulldog breed does come with some unique personality traits as well. They are notorious for snoring, grunting, drooling, and flatulence. The English Bulldog is sure to keep you laughing if you choose this fun, amicable breed.

Because they are so smart and energetic, they require a physical and mental outlet for all their boundless energy. German shepherds also require a loving yet firm owner to help guide them into adulthood and beyond. This is a breed that gives and demands respect. Without training, they can easily develop bad habits that get harder to break as they mature. The best way to prevent problem behavior is to stop it before it starts. Some common problems that can be solved include: 1. Food guarding One easy way to prevent food guarding is to hand feed your puppy. Puppies that are accustomed to having their food handled rarely develop food guarding behavior. Placing your hand into the bowl to deliver food also prevents guarding because the puppy is happy to receive food from you and perceives it as a reward. Benefits of hand feeding also include teaching your dog to be gentle when taking food or treats, learning to be calm at mealtimes, improved impulse control, building trust, and the food can also be used as training treats. Start with once or twice a day and as the dog learns and matures, try a few meals a week. As long as food guarding never begins, you probably will never have the problem. Resource guarding Resource guarding or possession aggression also includes food but here, we have listed them apart. As the name suggests, resource guarding is simply guarding a possession such as a toy, bed, item of clothing, personal space — anything the dog finds valuable. Any lunging, growling, snarling, stiffening, or growling to prevent you from coming near their treasure needs to be nipped in the bud before it escalates. To prevent resource guarding, when the dog is a puppy, offer them and handle their toys, beds, food bowel, and more. Whatever they love, take ownership of it and share it with them, rather the other way around. As far as toys and chews, teach young pups that it is fun to share by trading high value items for a reward. Teach the puppy to drop the item in exchange for a treat and then give the item back so that the dog can enjoy it. The idea is taking items are not to punish and should not be perceived by the dog as such. If a dog begins guarding behavior that gets out of control, call a professional trainer. Play biting Herding dogs tend to play bite or mouth more than other breeds. German shepherds are notorious for play biting with their razor sharp teeth. As young pups, they love to herd and nip hands, feet, shoes, pants, and whatever else that moves. German shepherds need to be taught bite inhibition through redirection. Appropriate chews are also really important for this breed. Durable rubber chew toys for aggressive chewers, bully sticks, food puzzles that can be stuffed with treats and chews that can be frozen for teething pups work well. Destructive chewing German shepherds have amazingly strong jaws and love to chew. Preventing destructive chewing includes trying to determine why the dog is chewing. If the dog is lonely, bored, frustrated, anxious, or teething? Identifying the cause will help you come up with a solution. A basic guideline to prevent this type of chewing in puppies is to not leave temping items out where the dog can find them in the first place. Next, be sure that the dog has plenty of appropriate chew toys, is getting plenty of exercise, and has their emotional and mental needs met. German shepherds need regular exercise, training, play time, nurturing, grooming, healthy food, and lots of fresh water. They are very loyal and bonded dogs who need to be close to their family. When all these needs are met, chew toys, treats, and bones should be adequate for their chewing needs. When they begin to dig, tell them no and redirect them onto something else that is stimulating, such as their toys. The best way to stop the behavior is to prevent it from escalating and making sure the dog is getting plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. If your sheppy just lives to dig, you can create a digging pit or appropriate place to dig, such as a sandbox. Separation anxiety Separation anxiety can happen because German shepherds share such close bonds with their family. The best way to prevent this is establish a routine from the beginning. Start by teaching your puppy that you will come back by returning after a very short time and slowly increasing your time away. Crate training can also be helpful. Also establish a schedule that your puppy gets used to, including meals and potty breaks. A radio or TV being on can be helpful. Jumping German shepherds grow up to be powerful dogs so jumping is something that should not be encouraged in puppies. Fortunately, teaching a puppy not to jump is not difficult. Start by never petting the dog when they jump up. Tell the dog down and turn away. Once four paws are on the floor, lavish the pup with all the love and attention you want. In conclusion The good news about German shepherds is that they want to work alongside you and have a deep desire to please. Despite being strong willed and willing to look for their own job to keep themselves busy, they rather connect with and be near you. When you bond with them and direct their energy into positive things, such as training, exercise and playing games, they make the most remarkable pets in the world. Please share these tips with other German shepherd lovers. Different causes make your furry friend chew destructively on couches, surfaces, and shoes. These include: Poor obedience training from when your dog was a puppy Loneliness from being left alone for too long Lack of exercise and mental stimulation Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior Excessive stress in the home environment How to Stop Destructive Chewing in Adult German Shepherds As with the causes, the remedies for excessive-destructive chewing in an adult GSD can be diverse. These will include: Retrain your dog if you think basic training was poorly done during puppyhood. You may want to consider the services of a professional trainer. Find ways of keeping your dog busy when you are not around. You can consider giving your dog a bone to chew on. If you do, go for natural or synthetic ones that will not break into pieces and risk choking your dog while he is alone. Ensure your GSD has the recommended 2-hour exercise daily, which could be distributed into walks and runs in the morning and evening and play and games at other times. That means he finds a replacement for his wild mates in his human family. Besides, the GSD is also a friendly and affectionate dog that loves cuddling time and spending time with family. As such, leaving your German Shepherd alone can cause excessive loneliness, otherwise referred to as separation anxiety , when it gets to the levels of an undesired psychological condition. The German Shepherd is among the top 10 breeds most predisposed to separation anxiety. This suggests that it could also be a breed thing, and you must take extra precautions. Dogs with this behavior problem find something to relieve their nervousness and stress, so most will turn to destructive behavior. Typical forms of destructive behavior include excessive chewing, house soiling, getting into the trash can, digging, destroying furniture and other items, and increased aggression toward family, strangers, and other pets. I would never leave her in her crate for more than hours. However, I got delayed in traffic for another 30 minutes on this occasion, and she clearly got bored! I only wanted one cushion! Remember that destructive behavior can be caused by factors like lack of exercise or a stressful home environment. Three solutions can be highly effective in stopping separation anxiety in your German Shepherd. Suggestions include finding someone to keep them busy and staying connected with them while you are away. Find a way of keeping your dog occupied while you are away Keeping your dog mentally and physically engaged can be achieved by employing a professional trainer or a dog walker. There are also doggy daycare facilities where you can take your GSD. Find a way of staying connected with your dog while you are away In an ever-changing technology era, staying connected with your GSD using dog cameras is easy. Take, for example, the Furbo Dog Camera from Amazon. Its main features can offer many ways to stay connected with your German Shepherd. You can toss a treat to your dog to reward him for good behavior. You can talk to your GSD to calm him down, especially when the barking alerts come in. Urine-Marking in German Shepherds Urine marking is an instinctive dog behavior that usually starts during sexual maturity. They will urinate on objects to leave a message for other dogs. For example, male German Shepherds will spray on the walls of a building where there is a female GSD in heat to tell fellow males to stay away. Generally, females only spray when they are in heat to attract any male dogs that happen to be in the area. However, urine marking becomes inappropriate inside the house, making it a behavior problem. The original herding and protective roles of German Shepherds make them quite territorial. As pack dogs, GSDs can also be highly dominant. Territory marking you welcome your partner at home, and your dog urinates on their backpack to claim ownership of you. Your dog has noticed a new dog in the neighborhood and wants to mark the house as his territory. How to Stop Urine Marking in German Shepherds To prevent or stop urine marking , consider one of these remedies — depending on the cause. Keep new and unfamiliar items in the house out of reach. Clean places where your GSD has urine marked to remove the smell and prevent your dog from remarking them. I like this one as you can use it on any surface. Help your German Shepherd become friends with new persons or dogs in the house. Eliminate anxiety-causing situations in the home. Confine your dog in his crate for a couple of hours. Consult a canine behaviorist if the behavior is out of hand. German Shepherds with ADHD will portray behavior problems such as hyperactivity, inability to pay attention, being easily distracted, impulsiveness, poor social skills, aggressive responses, fear, and sensitivity to noise. The consensus seems to reign about the interaction between genetic and environmental factors in ADHD. Hyperactive German Shepherds may be uncontrollable during walks, manifest excessive leash-pulling, become overly excited when removing the leash or returning home, and be challenging to engage in obedience training. Experts have used human ADHD questionnaires to detect the condition in dogs since; it seems hyperactivity has similar body chemical markers in dogs as in humans. This explains why testing ADHD in dogs entails observing changes in respiratory and heart rate and behavior. Consequently, solving hyperactivity in German Shepherds entails countering self-stimulation with external stimulation. As often repeated, the test for ADHD is to give your German Shepherd a prescribed stimulant in a controlled clinical situation and then observe the change in its respiratory rate, heart rate, and behavior. The levels for these markers will reduce in dogs with ADHD. Avoid self-diagnosing your dog, especially with self-made remedies. Excessive Barking in German Shepherds Barking is a typical communication behavior in dogs, and German Shepherds are known to be naturally vocal. Nonetheless, when barking becomes excessive, it can become a nuisance for both the owner and the neighborhood. Excessive barking means your dog will start to bark for any little stimulant and go on and on and on. It could be a doorbell, a passing stranger, or even the rustling of leaves in the backyard. If your GSD barks excessively, this may be the first sign of underlying issues and that he is sensitive to specific triggers. Triggers of excessive barking include: Boredom — your German Shepherd is home alone most of the time. Insufficient exercise — both physical and mental. Territorial behavior — your dog is overly protective of you, your home, or your possessions. Attention seeking — your dog has been reinforced to receive your attention when he barks incessantly. Medical issues — your German Shepherd has a medical condition that causes them pain and discomfort. How to Stop Excessive Barking in German Shepherds Sadly, people re-home their dogs every day due to excessive barking. If you have this German Shepherd behavior problem, below are the methods that are incredibly efficient in stopping excessive barking in dogs: Using positive reinforcement. To do this effectively, you must understand your German Shepherd and what makes him bark in the first place. Desensitization and counter-conditionin g : desensitization means exposing your GSD to the stimulus that causes excessive barking at a level lower or similar to the actual trigger. Eliminating the triggers: this might be a bit difficult, especially if they are beyond your control. For example, you cannot stop strangers from using a path near your house or leaves from rustling. Avoid gimmicks such as bark collars and sprays designed to teach your German Shepherd not to bark, as these only address the symptom and not the cause of the behavior problem. You have to lure them to the bathtub and put up with their crazy shaking and splashing unless you have managed to train them out of it! But bathing your dog becomes an extra hassle if covered with awful-smelling dirt! So, why do German Shepherds roll in the mud? Many speculative theories are used to explain why dogs roll in the dirt. Here are some of them: In the wild, wolves disguise their smell with dirt History has it that wolves disguise their scent by rolling in the dirt. Since dogs have their ancestry from wolves, it is speculated that they will roll in the dirt for the same reasons. Dogs love to leave their smell around Dogs have the instinct to leave their smell around to claim dominance or mark their territory. The pungent smell of dirt pushes them to want to claim their dominance with their odor, even when strong smells would overpower it. It gives them a sensational feeling As animals that predominantly use their sense of smell to interact with the environment, dogs enjoy extra sensory stimulation and may look for it excessively, such as lying in a pile of dirt. German Shepherds have innate behavior dispositions unique to the breed, like all other dogs. This can include behaviors like mouthing or destructive chewing. Think of their instinctual protectiveness towards their loved ones and how that can cause them to be aggressive toward strangers via nipping or jumping at strangers. But German Shepherds grow to be the dog you train them to be. And if that is not done correctly, behavior problems like howling will occur. However, that is not the only reason why your GSD may be misbehaving. German Shepherds have behavior problems such as howling, mouthing, jumping, and nipping due to poor or incomplete socialization and training, letting your dog have his way, insufficient exercise, hormones, health reasons, and using aversive training methods. Genetics can also cause poor behavior, which is easily solved by training. Genetic Disposition to Bad Behavior It has been scientifically proven that behavior, including howling and jumping, has both genetic and environmental determinants. This fact is recorded in a study on the genetics of behavior traits in German Shepherds, which confirmed that multiple genetic and non-genetic factors influence canine behavior, such as mouthing and nipping. In simple terms, your German Shepherd may inherit genes predisposing them to aggression from their parents, which does not mean you cannot tame the behavior through training. Poor Puppy Socialization Poorly socialized puppies grow into badly behaved adult German Shepherds exhibiting undesirable behaviors like jumping up and biting. If a German Shepherd is not socialized well at this age, he will become an unapproachable and untrainable adult. Proper socialization training for your German Shepherd means exposing them to different environments where they learn how to interact with other people and pets positively. This makes them more confident and calm than anxiety and aggression in unsocialized and badly trained dogs. Incomplete Obedience Training Obedience training is crucial in helping your German Shepherd understand your expectations. This includes managing behaviors such as play biting and improving the overall trainability of your pet. Many new dog owners think a week of training after bringing their dog home is enough. Not so! This is also key to ensuring your dog feels confident when interacting with visitors. Miscommunication can result in undesired behaviors like play biting, especially when your pet meets visitors. I have two helpful guides to help you with obedience training using positive reinforcement techniques. These guides incorporate strategies to improve trainability and build confidence in your dog. It has been confirmed that positive reinforcement training produces the best behavior in dogs because it boosts their confidence. Alao, you encourage your pet to repeat it by constantly rewarding him. Instead, research suggests that aversive training methods may be less effective in teaching good behavior to your dog. This can also negatively affect their interactions with visitors. Hormonal Effects and Gonadectomy Testosterone is often associated with aggression in male dogs. This research study discovered that other hormones could be the underlying causes of play biting and aggression in dogs. Oxytocin OT , a hormone associated with social bonding and sexual reproduction, and Vasopressin AVP , which regulates the volume of extracellular fluid volume and renal handling of water, can negatively impact dog behavior. Gonadectomy is the generic term for the surgical removal of the male testes or female ovaries. However, research results from a large sample of over 13, dogs show this is not entirely true. Scientists still do not know the reason for this. Would you call that a well-behaved dog? This is especially notable when visitors come to the house and the dog exhibits poor behavior. Not setting boundaries with your dog can be another reason your German Shepherd has behavior issues. Such a dog will show aggression when someone tries to set boundaries, such as at the vet or the dog park. The German Shepherd is a high-energy dog requiring at least two hours of daily exercise. This means more than leash walks! In addition to this, he will need lots of interactive play and mental stimulation to manage his health and build confidence. If you try to make your GSD a couch potato, he will have behavior issues, manifesting primarily in destructive behavior, negatively affecting his play-biting habits and behavior around visitors. Zak George , the well-known dog breeder and trainer, often emphasizes this point in his teachings. For example, a study revealed that dogs involved in physical activity and those who practice agility shows are less likely to show aggressive tendencies than those living a more sedentary life. Medical Conditions A final reason your German Shepherd will show behavior problems is if he has medical issues. These could be both physical and psychological. For example, dogs with Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior are often linked with self-directed aggression and self-mutilation, primarily through biting. A study on clinical features in dogs and cats with OCB indicated self-mutilation as the most recurrent of these features. Such practices are often seen as a sign of distress in dogs. Other medical conditions that may cause behavior issues in dogs include injury and post-operative pain, which can trigger aggressive behavior. In this case, having a breeder or vet advise on handling the dog can be beneficial. The causes of German Shepherd behavior problems are lack of socialization and exercise. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and social dogs and must be exposed to various people, animals, and environments to develop correctly. They are also active and energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. What other resources can help me deal with German Shepherd behavior problems? Many resources are available to help you deal with German Shepherd behavior problems. The most important is a qualified and experienced dog trainer. A good trainer can help you identify the source of the problem and develop an effective plan to address it. Another great resource is books and online articles written by experts on the subject. Final Thoughts Owning a German Shepherd is both exciting and rewarding for most owners. However, behavior problems associated with the breed can sometimes make owning a GSD a challenge altogether. What is most important is knowing that you can manage these behavior problems. Exercise, training, eliminating cues to behavior problems, and seeking a canine behaviorist are all possible ways to make your German Shepherd overcome his behavior shortcomings. Remember, though, that the job of a dog behaviorist or trainer is to train the dog and the human too! Related Posts You May Like:. Breed Info German Shepherds can be one of the best breeds of dogs to own. They are exceptionally smart, filled to the brim with personality, and incredibly affectionate to people they love. German Shepherd Behavior Problems German Shepherds tend to develop behavior problems when their needs are being met either mental or physical. Some of the most common German Shepherd behavior problems are jumping, destructiveness, OCD, hyperactivity, separation anxiety, excess barking and whining, mouthiness, dominance, and defensive aggression. This is not because they are inherently problematic dogs but because it takes a compatible lifestyle and handling style to enjoy the best traits of the breed. However, GSDs are instinctively protective of their family and defensive of their home. When not directed properly, this positive trait could easily turn into aggression. Dominance Dominance can emerge as disobedience or assertiveness towards humans or other animals. Being confident and headstrong dogs, German Shepherds might try to assert themselves and see what they can get away with. While GSDs are naturally clingy to their humans, distress from being separated must be address through methodical training. Mouthiness German Shepherds are naturally mouthy. They use their mouths to interact with the world. Additionally, as puppies, German Shepherds are prone to nipping and play biting as that would be how they interact with their littermates. Excessive Barking German Shepherds are generally very vocal. And because they are so large, their bark tends to be quite thunderous. Generally, they will bark because they want to communicate something, like alerting you to the presence of a stranger or because they sense a threat. However, they could also develop the bad behavior of barking excessively due to boredom or getting attention. Nevertheless, you need to be aware of them as well as how to manage them. Here are different ways to address German Shepherd behavior problems that might develop without proper training, handling, and socialization: Whining Like barking, whining is a means for dogs to communicate. Unfortunately, GSDs tend to whine excessively. This is a loud, high-pitched noise that could become aggravating when left unchecked. However, you can keep it at a minimum through proper reinforcement. Hyperactivity German Shepherds are working dogs developed in the fields where they worked long hours and ran great distances. Destructiveness German Shepherd destructiveness is related to hyperactivity. Often, this can include chewing, digging, and destroying things at home. Giving them ample mental and physical stimulation will help address this. Additionally, you can redirect their chewing to things of their own. Jumping Dogs often jump up at you as a means of greeting you excitedly. Try to address this at puppyhood by redirecting the behavior. For example, teach them to sit in front of you. Ignore them and gently push them off when they jump on you, and only fuss over them and give them attention when they sit. OCD Like humans, dogs can develop obsessive-compulsive disorders. Unfortunately, some GSD lines have this genetic predisposition. This can emerge as unwanted behaviors like excessive licking, pacing, or chewing. Often, this can be addressed by deterring behaviors ex. In more extreme cases, medication may be needed to treat OCD in dogs. Urine Marking Urine marking is common among male German Shepherds. It is a means to communicate with other dogs and typically a way to claim their territory. Even properly housetrained dogs will sometimes do this indoors, especially when there are other male dogs at home. They lack the confidence to be out in the world and might act out when presented with unfamiliar experiences. Reaching sexual maturity will make them more prone to mood swings and scent marking males. Additionally, this is the time when your puppy is most likely to develop stronger responses to strangers and might play more roughly with other dogs. Six months up to the time they reach about one year old is a critical time in their puppyhood where they will learn to be bolder and independent. It is a critical time for you to teach them proper manners while also enabling them to develop their own personality and confidence. This includes jumping and play biting. Even so, GSDs might also develop new behavior issues at this stage, and most of them stem from having excessive energy and drive. To mitigate these issues, make sure you give them plenty of opportunities to exercise as well as stimulate their mental faculties. How to Avoid German Shepherds With Behavior Problems Knowing that German Shepherds are consistently among the top 3 most popular breeds to own, they are undeniably incredible companions. But if you can, select a breeder with responsible practices and has a reputation for producing healthy and confident dogs. Socialization Start socialization as early as you can. Expose your pup to all sorts of experiences so that they may build their confidence and interact properly with their environment. Make sure they know how to engage with other people and animals. Leadership Throughout their puppyhood and sometimes even beyond, your GSD will test how you respond to disobedience. Stimulation Too much energy leads to boredom and the development of bad behaviors. Make sure you give your GSD plenty of exercise so that they can expend the excess energy they have in productive ways. Additionally, they need opportunities to use their intelligence and natural canine abilities through mental exercises. Final Thoughts All breeds have dogs with behavioral problems. However, such issues are much more of a concern with large dogs like German Shepherds. They are a very smart, bold, and determined breed. To ensure that your German Shepherd is a happy, well-adjusted member of your household, your dog must receive the attention and exercise they need. They are also very strong willed with a dominant nature, so they also require a lot of training. For your family and children, a German Shepherd is an excellent choice as a caring companion. They are loyal, friendly, smart, and naturally protective; however, German Shepherds also need lots of socialization and good training to become obedient. If they do not get proper behavioral training, they can develop overly protective behaviors and neurotic habits. Because they are so protective, excel at many dog sports, and are exceptionally loyal, the military and police choose them protect and serve their communities and country. You might be wondering: what characteristics should I be looking for in my German Shepherd? Well, the answer may vary between different buyers, but generally speaking, you should look for a smart, loyal, and healthy dog. This is the reason that they are used in police work such as search-and-rescue, or sniffing out bombs and criminals. But their intelligence can sometimes lead to problematic behaviors. However, if they receive proper training at a young age , then they will not exercise this type of behavior. Over-Protectiveness German Shepherds are typically protective dogs, and they always make sure to care for their family, but sometimes this protectiveness leads to bigger problems. For instance, they might aggressively bark at everyone you come in contact with. It is also crucial to give your dog time to socialize with other people and dogs early on, as this will get them comfortable being around others. Giving them time to interact with others at a young age will help them learn how to handle certain situations later on. North Mountain Kennels can do all these things for any prospective buyer! Territorial Aggression Your German Shepherd not only protects you, but they also protect their territory. They are very territorial animals, which is why they are often used as security dogs. Because they are so protective of territory that they believe to be theirs, it may lead them to act out, which can cause an unsafe environment. German Shepherds can also become territorial over food, and toys. They will show aggression by growling, lunging, and barking at other animals and people. There are plenty of ways to prevent this aggressive behavior from developing, but the most common way is to gratify them for calm behavior. Digging or Destructiveness German Shepherds need rigorous physical and mental exercise. These dogs get bored easily, and this can lead to destructive behavior. You can help your dogs by playing with them, or giving training that will help them to reduce their boredom in less destructive ways. Nipping Puppies usually start nipping between five and nine months old. This is considered normal behavior for young dogs; however, German Shepherds are very strong, so it might hurt a lot more than a smaller dog. The solution is as simple as giving your dog some toys. Separation Anxiety Separation anxiety is common in dogs that are close to their owners. They do require a lot of attention, and being gone for long periods of time can stress them out. Leaving them lots of toys is one way to help, but it also comes down to them adjusting to you being gone. Showing Dominance German Shepherds are known for their alpha male behavior. To prevent this type of behavior, you need to teach them obedience. Being aggressive with them is the worst thing you could do. Not only is it wrong to mistreat your dog, but it will also teach them that aggressive behavior is okay. Conclusion German Shepherds absorb information like a sponge. They are quick learners, especially as puppies. As they get older, it is harder to break bad habits. Here at North Mountain Kennels, we have been raising some of the smartest and healthiest German Shepherds for years. We have a team of professional trainers who are experienced in what they do. Our team of experts is the best around, and know everything when it comes to training German Shepherds. Recent Posts. To those of you that are wary of the German shepherd dog breed, I understand where you are coming from, too! Aggressive German Shepherd behavior — a common association with this breed — terrifies some people because they feel that German Shepherds are dangerous dogs to own. First off, they are very large dogs and can come off very intimidating. They can become very protective, aggressive, and scary dogs. The key word here is untrained. Any untrained dog—regardless of breed—can have the same behavioral problems. Understanding German Shepherd Behavior Better German Shepherd behavior has always been portrayed in the media as one filled with aggression, disobedience, and unpredictability. In fact, I have personally fallen in love with this breed. Their personality is terrific! If you are someone who fears this breed, are one of the pet parents looking for help and direction with your dog, or you know someone who is wary of German Shepherds, then this honest truth about this lovely breed might change your mind. The German shepherd breed originated in Germany. No surprises there. But, believe it or not, their name was changed soon after the war. Before the war this breed was commonly called the Alsatian in Great Britain and parts of Europe. There are still parts of Europe that refer to the German shepherd as the Alsatian; however, most of the world has converted back to calling them German shepherds. Pretty interesting, right? As for life expectancy, German shepherds normally live for around years. The color of a German shepherd can range considerably from gray to black to tan, and even a silvery color. The males grow to be approximately 24 inches at the shoulder. Females tend to be a little shorter, measuring around 22 inches at the shoulder. As for weight, males average around 80 pounds and the females are a bit lighter at around 60 pounds. There is no denying that these are big dogs! The German shepherd dog breed does not only come with a big size; they have big, complex personality traits that can fascinate and overwhelm pet parents. The German Shepherd breed can be classified as guard dogs and working dogs. These dogs are bred to be confident and powerful — two personality traits which often scare people away from wanting anything to do with the breed. Physical Characteristics of the German Shepherd They have strong muscles. All dog breeds require proper training and daily handling. This is especially true when your dog is a puppy. Proper training can prevent a lot of behavior issues down the road. If you have a puppy, I encourage you to check out my Puppy Coach training program. German Shepherds can turn out to be incredibly beautiful, gentle, and loving family pets with work and effort! But today, I want to share what my general experiences with German shepherds have been like. I can confidently say that the breed description given to German shepherds is pretty accurate. I have encountered German Shepherds who are physically and mentally strong, and courageous! They all seem to have a deep desire to connect with you, work for you, and do a great job. Training your aggressive, confident dog? They possess a strong desire to learn and excel in various tasks. Understand that their intelligence needs to be channeled through training and mental stimulation. Provide them with consistent training sessions, engage them in interactive games, and offer challenging tasks to keep their minds engaged. Personality 2: German Shepherds Are Naturally Protective German Shepherds have a natural instinct to protect their family and territory. This protective nature can manifest as alertness, watchfulness, and sometimes even suspicion of strangers. This prevents excessive guarding behavior and promote a well-rounded and friendly temperament. Originally bred as working dogs, they excel in various roles such as search and rescue, police and military work. Some also work as service or therapy dogs. Engage their intelligence and energy by providing them with tasks, training exercises, or even participation in dog sports. This helps them feel fulfilled and prevents boredom-related behaviors. Personality 4: They Require Socialization and Proper Introduction While German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and strong bonds with their families, they can be reserved or aloof with strangers. Early and positive socialization is crucial to ensure they develop good manners and friendly behavior towards unfamiliar people and animals. Gradual exposure to different situations and positive reinforcement will help them become confident and well-adjusted in various environments. They require companionship, attention, and quality time with their family members. Make them an integral part of your daily life! Involve them in activities, and provide regular opportunities for interaction, training, and play. This bond and sense of belonging are essential for their happiness and well-being. These dogs have a natural inclination to follow a confident and assertive leader. Establishing yourself as the pack leader through consistent rules, boundaries, and clear communication allows your German Shepherd to feel secure and reduces behavioral issues. A strong leader provides the guidance and structure that these intelligent and loyal dogs need to flourish. Debunking Myths About German Shepherd Behavior The strong, intimidating build of the German Shepherd breed often comes with myths and misconceptions that might stop you from really knowing these amazing dogs! However, with proper care, training, and socialization, German Shepherds can be gentle, loyal, and loving companions. Myth 2: German Shepherds Are Only Suitable As Working Dogs Debunked: While German Shepherds excel in various working roles, such as police and military work, search and rescue, and service dogs, they are also wonderful family pets. They can adapt to different environments and thrive with proper exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. They have a strong desire to please their owners, making them quick learners. Consistent positive reinforcement training methods, such as reward-based training, can help them excel in obedience, agility, and various other activities. Early socialization and supervised interactions are key to fostering positive relationships between German Shepherds and other family members, including children and other animals. Early training, positive reinforcement, and gradually increasing alone time can help prevent or alleviate separation anxiety in German Shepherds. While they are often described as loyal and protective, each German Shepherd may have its unique characteristics and temperament. They have a code or a set of rules, which they follow. He was ready to hand him over to another family because he felt that his dog had tasted blood and that was the end of him as a good dog. We both knew his beloved family pet was great — giving up was not an option that time! I decided to step in and explain a little bit about why his German shepherd had actually bitten another animal — a sheep he owned — that he decided to keep the dog. He basically had the German Shepherd and a sheep—believe it or not—almost feeding from the same bowl so it was a recipe for disaster. Definitely made sure to remind him that he needed to pull his socks up as a dog owner and start putting into place some really simple training techniques, and it was very effective. He was still an amazing dog deep down, but you needed to know what you were doing! I could certainly see myself ending up with one in the future. I would fully trust this breed around my kids, my wife, and my other dogs. And yes, I have proven the German Shepherds also make the perfect family pet! Like I said, with proper training and boundaries put in place, German Shepherds are beautiful, friendly dogs. Here are some common German Shepherd behavior problems you should catch on early. Why The German Shepherd Breed Is Protective Over the last century, German Shepherds have been used for tracking, search and rescue—especially as police dogs— and protection and guarding. This dog breed produces most military dogs! Their strength, size, intelligence, and confidence make them excellent police dogs and military dogs… but the same qualities can also trigger potential German Shepherd behavior issues. German Shepherd Behavior Problem 1: Fierce Aggression One of the first common problems for German Shepherds revolves around aggression and the need to protect. They will continue to do problematic stuff, until you step in! Yes, Yes You Can! German Shepherd aggression can be untrained. German Shepherd Behavior Problem 2: Leash Pulling Another German Shepherd behavior problem —which I think is probably due to the determined nature of the German shepherd and their size—is pulling on the leash. When a German Shepherd wants to pull, they are very strong, obviously due to their physical design. My dog experience made me realize that you can effectively address leash problems in German Shepherds through basic training and a good sturdy harness. German Shepherd Behavior Problem 3: Nipping and Biting The third most common issue I come across with this breed is biting and nipping, especially with adolescent German Shepherds that are around 6 or 7 months of age. Here are some ways you can follow to prevent this problem from escalating! German Shepherds are big dogs, so this issue might seem scarier with this breed. I totally understand that. Make it clear from the get-go that biting hands, arms, legs, etc. And for those of you that are wondering, nipping and biting should really stop at or before 4 months of age. When this breed is left alone, they can become very stressed with separation anxiety. The number one cause of German Shepherd separation anxiety their fierce loyalty to their humans and their desire to stay close to and protect their pack. When a German Shepherd is stressed out due to separation anxiety, he may show a variety of different behavioral problems like digging holes, trying to escape, or barking. You have to remember that these problems related to separation anxiety are caused by anxiety. These problems are annoying, frustrating, and should not be acceptable, but they do happen out of love. Once again, many dog breeds suffer from separation anxiety and will show the exact same behaviors when left alone. This is where the training comes in. And like wolves, all dogs have a family pack mentality and a desire to protect and look after and love each other. I would say the German Shepherd follows that dog code to the letter of the law. So, if you want to have a good German Shepherd, you really need to understand the rules of the dog code—and you need to learn those rules quickly. A lot of people know how to play chess, but there are masters and then there are grandmasters, and it just seems to me that German Shepherds are the grandmasters of this dog code. They will take you to the next level, and you make your move, and they will do something else to outwit you. If you are looking for a comprehensive training program for your German Shepherd pup or a comprehensive training program to stop any of the above listed issues, then be sure to check out my online training program—The Dog Calming Code. In the program, I give you solutions to a bunch of different dog trainer problems, from fixing aggressive behavior and leash training to recall training and puppy training. I hope that you now know a little bit more about their history and why they behave the way that they do. Please share your story in the comments below! His goal is to continue to share his unique approach to dog training with like-minded people who wish to make a difference in the world of dogs. His training methods focus on creating and building the connection between dogs and dog owners, and are shared and used around the world. My next-door neighbor had two that they left in the backyard to their own devices. They would dig up their backyard, bark agressively at anyone who walked by and sometimes even get out of their yard which was scary. Hyperactivity Your German Shepherd is more than just your best friend; you have to show parental abilities as well, to make sure that your puppy is being brought up with care, affection, and attention. As a pet owner, it is important to be aware of the major behavioral problems that your dog may show, in order to find the best solution for the same. The emotions and warmth attached to the process of bringing up a pup to a healthy and happy dog have got to do more with practical responsibilities and acts of care and love. This is not possible without knowing the basic behavioral problems that your dog may exhibit, as these are the symptoms of an unsociable, unhappy, lonely, nervous, and emotionally unstable dog, and being an owner, it is your duty to get your dog rid of these antagonisms. Let us assess these problems one by one. Biting and Nipping Often small pups and growing dogs are found biting and nipping. This behavior is mainly noticed in teething puppies and is sometimes found in dogs that are seeking attention or are annoyed with their way of living. It is important not to become out-rightly harsh or rude with your puppy for this reason. Rather you should seek expert guidance about dealing with this tendency. As a pet owner, you should make sure that your does not bark for unsocial reasons like being unfriendly towards guests, visitors, and strangers, out of fear or possessiveness, way to defend their territory, out of anxiety, nervousness, and frustration. In case it does, train and treat it well to make him lead a normal life. Signs of aggression Aggression is a common thing with larger breeds and they must be treated tactfully and with balanced discipline and patience. Make sure to analyze his psychological or seasonal issues like mating, breeding, etc. It is advisable not to use punishments or rude corrections. Fear of fireworks and thunderstorms It is a common tendency for dogs to get frightened by thunderstorms and fireworks or heavy metallic sounds. Under these situations, it may drool, hide, pace, pant, whine, pee, or shake. Under these situations when your dog shows signs of fear, it is advisable to give your dog comfort and a space where he feels safe and secure. Make him feel that it is nothing to get afraid of these sources, by talking and adoring him with a calming massage. Destructive Chewing Chewing is another common behavioral tendency in dogs that shows that they are bored, aloof, need attention, and are anxious or annoyed with something. It is important to mildly scold him for doing this and reward him for abandoning the habit. Unresponsive dogs Dogs that do not come to you at calling his name suggest that he is not taught well to do this. In many cases, it may even run away from you at calling his name. It is mainly because of training deficiency. It is necessary to teach him to come to you whenever you call out his name to him, from the very beginning. This can be taken as a part of personal training. Fear of traveling in cars Often dogs are found to get afraid of traveling in cars and show sins of fear like shaking, panting, restlessness, vomiting, drooling, etc. The dog-owners should get their dogs rid of this car-traveling fear by teaching them from the beginning about the harmlessness of car-travels. One can also take his dog for car trips to make the dog feel comfortable and at ease with cars. Digging Digging has been found to be a common behavioral tendency in dogs, but it is considered to be a reason for frustrated and aloof dogs who dig earth out of anxiety, boredom, and in a quest to keep themselves busy and active. Dog owners can take care of this habitual behavior by keeping the dog busy with playful and constructive activities. One can also find ways to make the dog more witty, energetic, and intelligent with some practices and activities. Shy and nervous Under certain environments and situations, your dog tends to act nervous or may shy away inside its safe couch, or may hide under the bed or in a corner. This behavior shows a lack of courage, confidence, self-pride, and a feeling of insecurity and anxiety. It is important to make your dog realize his self-worth and dignity and he must be treated peacefully and with trust that his environment is secure and safe. With the help of some fun tricks and games, you can bring your dog out of his insecurity and nervousness. Separation Anxiety Dogs suffering from separation anxiety face certain behavioral problems like improper urination, chewing, defecation, whining, restlessness, chewing, defecation, etc. It should be taught the benefits of attachment and detachment at the same time and should be handled in a way that would teach him to be by himself, even if the owner is not around. Pulling on a leash Another behavioral tendency that can be taken care of while training your dog from the very beginning is the habit of leash-pulling. This suggests that your dog is seeking more freedom, activity, and fast-paced movements. It is important to discipline your dog and train him well to walk politely beside you while taking him out for a walk. You can also reward him for the proper act later when you reach home. The habit of jumping up A jumping dog is basically a happy, confident, and active dog, which is a positive sign. It generally does show excitement, happiness, and longing and expresses that it needs attention and praise. However, not every guest or visitor would like the dog to jump over them, even with a friendly attitude. This behavior of your dog can be dealt with a proper discipline, training, and treatment. Certain dogs do so out of boredom or to clean up or maybe just because it tastes good to them. It is advised to accompany your dog while excreting and throw a reward to him to fetch it as soon as he finishes up and you get some time to clean up. Hyperactivity A hyperactive dog often wears himself out and becomes restless by nature and suffers from anxiety and nervousness. It tends to lose energy and self-control out of hyperactivity and over-excitement. Using dog crates and leashes can bind him down from harming himself or others in the process. However, a professional trainer should be consulted to provide him with calming lessons and to teach him discipline as the dog keeps growing gradually. It is important for GSD owners to be able to handle their dogs firmly. There are certain things and tools to house train the dogs such as tethers, crates, indoor options, diapers, and so on. It is important to teach your dog to use a particular place for excretion which has to be followed strictly. She especially enjoys combining her lifelong love of dogs with her passion for writing. Read more about her. German Shepherds are smart, loyal, naturally protective, and friendly. Without proper training and socialization, German Shepherds can develop nervous habits and overly-protective behaviors, just like most breeds. You might be wondering: What traits should I be watching for in my German Shepherd puppy? This intelligence, when left to its own devices, can lead to problematic behaviors. With early training and socialization though, you can help to prevent some of these common issues from coming up. A few of the most common include: Over-Protectiveness — German Shepherds are naturally protective. They want to protect the family unit. This protectiveness can become problematic if it manifests as aggression towards strangers or other animals. Examples include lunging at the mailman, or aggressive barking at passers-by. Introduce them to new people, new situations, and new noises. Socialization helps your puppy develop confidence and to learn what types of people and situations are non-threatening. Unfortunately, when they become over-territorial, this can be unsafe for visitors. Often, too, Shepherds can become territorial over food, growling, barking or lunging at anyone or other animals that come into their space. Exercise, obedience training, and rewarding calm behavior can all help to alleviate territorial aggression. Digging or Destructiveness — German Shepherds, require rigorous mental and physical exercise. They get bored very quickly, and often, this boredom manifests itself in destructive behavior. When bored, your pup might try to seek attention too, another common reason for the destructive behavior, like digging excessively or chewing up a shoe. Providing daily physical exercise, as well as training mental activity can help prevent boredom. Nipping — Many young dog breeds nip starting at around 6 to 9 months old. This is fairly typical behavior, but with Shepherds, it can be a bit scarier as get bigger. Separation Anxiety — German Shepherds, love you and want to always be by your side! Unfortunately, work and vacation make that impossible. You might also start with shorter trips when you first bring your pup home. Obedience training is imperative, and you should include your whole family in the training process. This will help your dog learn that he is not the alpha. Ultimately, the best way to weed out problematic behaviors is to start a training regime very early. German Shepherd puppies want to learn and put their intelligence to good use. Owners must be consistent in their training. Using the right cues, rewarding the right behaviors, and communicating with your dog properly is very important. The best way is to learn the right way to train a pup is to seek the help of a German Shepherd trainer. Taking a course teach you how to properly communicate with your dog and provide you with techniques to redirect negative behaviors. It starts with the breeder. Find a breeder that breeds for temperament and health. The best breeders take great care to produce animals that are calm, confident and loving. It requires careful pedigree planning and selecting the right sire dad and dam mom who show well-adjusted temperaments. Similarly, the best breeders will also be happy to provide a pedigree for the animal and are glad to answer the phone when you have any training concerns. For more information or if you may have questions, please contact us here.

Articles A friend of mine recently reached out asking for advice about the Labrador Bulldog Mix, so I decided to write a guide about this social and loving doggie breed. So, what is a Labrador Bulldog Mix? If you are considering adopting or buying a Labrador Bulldog Mix, it is important to know what to expect with this doggie breed, particularly when it comes to caring for the pooch. In this article, we will look at all the crucial information that will help your figure out whether the Labrador Bulldog Mix is perfect for you. A Bullador will usually have a large head and folded ears, with a somewhat short muzzle. Like its parents, a Labrador Bulldog Mix will have a strong body that could either be lean or muscular, depending on the parent your pup takes after. Size Another concern for people interested in this dog breed is size. How big does a Bullador get? A Labrador Bulldog Mix is a medium-sized pooch, bigger than the Bulldog, but smaller than the Labrador. You can expect a Bullador to weigh about 50 to 90 lbs. A fully grown Bullador will stand about 17 to 22 inches tall. Therefore, it is not surprising to find some Bulladors that are larger or smaller than this. The color of your Bullador pup will depend on the coat colors of its parents. Common coat colors for Bulldog Lab Mixes include tan, white, black, and brown. In most cases, Bulladors will have a bi-colored coat, rather than a solid color. So, do Bulldog Lab Mixes have many health problems? Despite being a hybrid, a Bullador can still be affected by many of the health conditions that affect its parents. These include: Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome Brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome is a condition that commonly affects the Bulldog breed. This condition causes obstruction in the airways, making it difficult for your pooch to breathe. If your Bullador inherits the short muzzle of its Bulldog parent, the pup can be at risk of developing brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome. Joint Problems Bulldog Lab Mixes could also be susceptible to various joint problems, including elbow and hip dysplasia. These conditions, which come from the Lab side of the family, make movement painful and uncomfortable for your pooch. Other Common Health Problems Other common health issues affecting Labrador Bulldog Mixes include skin problems, obesity, bloating, ear infections, and eye infections. Most of these health conditions are inherited from the Bulldog side of the family. Lifespan So, how long do Bulldog Lab Mixes live for? Provided your furry buddy does not get affected by any serious health conditions, you can expect a Labrador Bulldog Mix to live for about 10 to 12 years. Diet The Bullador comes from parents who are known to have a huge appetite, and therefore, you can expect that your Bullador will also have a similar appetite. This means that you will have to be careful so as to avoid overfeeding since we have seen that this doggie breed is prone to obesity. It is recommended that you feed your Bullador with food that is rich in protein, rather than grains and carbs. What I love about Pet Plate is that they will even help you develop a suitable meal plan for your canine buddy depending on age and size. Exercise To keep your Bullador from getting obese, you should ensure that your four-legged friend gets enough exercise every day. If possible, take your pooch out for a 60 to 90 minute hike or walk every day. Alternatively, if you have a big enough yard, you can purchase toys like the iFetch Interactive Ball Launcher for Dogs and play with your doggie in the yard. Since Bulladors are susceptible to bloat, avoid scheduling exercise sessions immediately after meals. Vet Visits Even if your pooch seems perfectly healthy, it is advisable to schedule regular vet visits for checkups. This way, the vet will discover any health issues early enough and treat them before they get serious. Are Bulladors Aggressive? Temperaments Of Labrador Bulldog Mixes Image from Instagram: amberchristine3 The temperament of the Labrador Bulldog Mix usually falls between the lively spirits of the Labrador and the calm, reserved nature of the Bulldog. Friendly And Safe For Families Bulladors are very friendly and eager to please, and will get along well with all family members, including small children. Your Labrador Bulldog Mix will also be comfortable around other pets, including cats and other dogs. Bulladors are also very loyal and protective towards loved ones, and they also have territorial instincts. Therefore, they can make good guard dogs. As a result, the mix is also a very intelligent dog. Due to their high intelligence, Bulladors would learn commands quickly. However, due to the Bulldog side of the family, they can sometimes be stubborn. This means that you will need to be patient when training your Bullador. Like with most other dogs, positive reinforcement works better during training. Moderate Energy Levels While the Labrador is an outdoorsy dog with lots of energy, the Bulldog is not very active, and therefore, the Bullador will have moderate energy levels. This means that these dogs are not very difficult to handle. If your Bullador gets bored, or if you leave them alone for too long, they will express their displeasure by chewing at the nearest thing, such as your furniture or your shoes. Do Bulldog Lab Mixes Shed? This means that this breed is not suitable if you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog. Since the Bullador is a shedder, you will need to brush the pooch regularly, say 2 to 3 times a week, and even more frequently during shedding season. We recommend brushing your dear fido using the Furminator Undercoat Tool. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. All you need to do is to give this vacuum a voice command and it will vacuum the floors by itself, and even empty itself. When giving your canine buddy a bath, use a special dog shampoo to avoid irritating their skin. A good example of such shampoo is Pro Pet Works all-natural organic 5-in-1 oatmeal pet shampoo and conditioner. Check Price on Amazon Other Grooming Requirements To keep your pooch clean and healthy, you should also regularly clean their ears, brush their teeth, and clip their nails once the nails start getting too long. If your Bullador has skin folds like their Bulldog parent, regularly clean these areas to avoid skin infections. Labradors are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of about 12 years, and therefore, you can expect Lab Mixes to have a similar lifespan. However, the lifespan of the Lab Mix will also depend on the other parent. If a Lab is crossbred with a dog with a short lifespan, the mix will have a shorter lifespan. Bulldogs are reserved, laid-back dogs and will therefore get along well with many other dog breeds, including Labradors. In addition, both Labs and Bulldogs have similar traits — intelligence and friendliness. To increase their chances of getting along perfectly, make sure that both dogs are properly socialized from an early age. Due to their health problems, Bulldogs have a relatively short lifespan of about 8 to 10 years, but a Bulldog Mix can live for much longer, depending on the lifespan of the other parent. For instance, a Bulldog Labrador Mix will live for 10 to 12 years, and sometimes even longer. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bullador Highlights The Bullador is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog parents. The main colors of Bulladors are black, brown, white, tan and brindle. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors. They usually have short coats, and these pups are not a good choice for allergy sufferers. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week should suffice. Bulladors are prone to weight gain and are active dogs. They should get at least 60 to 90 minutes of brisk-paced walking or hiking. Depending on which parents genes dominate, they could need more or less. Their amiable temperament and size make the Bullador an excellent companion for children of all ages. With their easy going nature, Bulladors also get along well with other pets, especially dogs and cats. Bullador History The Bullador breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Labrador Retrievers and English Bulldogs in the s, likely in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems associated with purebreds and create an active, friendly companion dog. They continued to create Bulladors as demand for the pups climbed. Consider adoption if you decide this is the pup for you. Check your local shelters, look up Bullador rescues, or check with breed specific Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog rescues, as they will often help to re-home mixes. That said, as a mix between Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog parents, you can expect Bulladors to be in the medium to large range. Most weigh in at 50 to 90 pounds and range in height from 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder. However, being such a new crossbreed, they can be smaller or larger than average. Bullador Personality Bulladors can be extremely friendly like their Labrador parent with a hint of reservation from their Bulldog parent. While the Labradors tends to be more active than the English Bulldog, these pups are somewhere in the middle—usually more active than the English Bulldog but slightly less active that the Labrador. These rules are not set in stone, as they are a newer mixed breed. Both Bulldogs and Labradors are fond of kids, and Bulladors fall right in line. If a child is bothering them, they will probably walk away. Although, no matter how much a dog has a pre-disposition, they can be unpredictable. Never leave dogs alone with small children—ever. Bulladors have a prey drive and, if given a big yard to run around in, they may enjoy chasing birds and small critters. Socialization helps ensure that your Bullador puppy grows up to be a well-rounded, outgoing, friendly dog. Bullador Health The Bullador breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain proper care and regular veterinary checkups. Chopped carrots or celery make great little healthy treats. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your pup healthy. They should get at least 60 to 90 minutes of brisk paced walking or hiking. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. If your dog has a pushed-in face, like their English Bulldog parent, they will be at a big disadvantage for extreme weather. These dogs have trouble breathing in the extreme cold, and trouble cooling down in extreme heat. One of the toughest jobs caring for any dog is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth a minimum of three times a week. If your dog has any folds on their face, make sure to check between the folds for signs of irritation and bacteria. Make sure the skin is clean and dry. You can wipe it down with a damp cloth or consult your vet for proper care. Bullador Feeding An ideal Bullador diet should be formulated for an active, medium-to-large sized breed. Look for a high quality dog food from a pet food retailer to make sure that your dog is getting proper nutrition. Bulladors love food and have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. If their face is pushed-in, like the English Bulldog parent they will have a double disadvantage. If you live in a place where the weather changes all four seasons, they should only be outside long enough to do their business during cold winters and the heat of the summer. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Bullador Children And Other Pets Their amiable temperament and size make the Bullador an excellent companion for children of all ages. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. They may be less sociable toward new dogs. However, once they warm up, they will likely be good friends. Bullador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Bulladors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try English Bulldog or Labrador Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Labrador Appearance The Labrador is around inches tall and weighs about pounds. His weather-resistant coat comes in three standard color options: Black Yellow Chocolate Remember, a Bulldog Lab mix could inherit any number of the above mentioned physical traits. It will all be left up to chance and genetics! Bulldog Lab Mix Temperament Considering both the Bulldog and the Labrador are friendly, intelligent breeds, it comes as no surprise that their English Bulldog and Labrador crossbreed would be the same. Still, as with all crossbreeds, there are other personality traits that will be left up to chance when it comes to the English Bulldog and Labrador mix. Bulldog Temperament Being brave is a staple for this mighty breed who, despite his stout size, is celebrated for his unique perseverance and apparent imperviousness to pain. However, this breed is also adored for his approachable nature and calm, loving disposition. This is a people-oriented breed who does best when he is with his family. Natural Instincts and Destructive Behaviors A properly socialized Bulldog makes for a wonderful family companion, although he can have territorial instincts if not properly trained at an early age. Due to his courage, the English Bulldog makes a great watchdog, and he also gets along well with family pets he was raised with. However, the Bulldog has been known to show aggression towards strange dogs. Also, keep in mind that the Bulldog loves to chew and if he becomes bored, his chew toy of choice could become your furniture or personal belongings! Experts recommend plenty of chew toys and mental stimulation to keep this breed from becoming destructive. Early socialization will also be key to ensuring the Bulldog is well-rounded into adulthood. A prospective owner should consider obedience training as well beginning in puppyhood. Labrador Temperament The Labrador is a gregarious companion who gets along with just about everyone! With a loyal and intelligent nature, the Lab is eager to please and learns quickly. He is gentle and kind-hearted but he can be slow to mature and behave in a puppy-like way into adulthood. The Lab can also be a chewer, and his intelligence means he will need mental stimulation as well as exercise to keep him from becoming bored and destructive, just like the Bulldog. Early socialization and obedience training should be utilized with the Lab as well. What You Should Expect From a Mix Of course, as previously mentioned, your Bulldog Lab mix could inherit any number of the temperamental traits listed above. So, you must be prepared for any possible outcome. The most important way to ensure your puppy grows up confident, friendly, and happy is to socialize and train them well from a young age. Make sure they have plenty of mental stimulation to prevent destructive boredom. Spend some time with the parents of your puppy to see what their personalities are like. Training and Exercising your Bulldog Lab Mix Since both the Labrador and the Bulldog are intelligent breeds, you can expect a Labrador Bulldog mix to be clever and pick up new commands and tricks with ease. Both the Lab and the Bulldog are eager to please and they are likely to pass this sentiment on to their offspring. However, keep in mind that the Bulldog and the Labrador are both chewers and can be prone to destructive behaviors when bored. As previously mentioned, early socialization, obedience training, plenty of chew toys, exercise, and mental stimulation will help to alleviate undesirable behaviors. But what about exercise? Exercise Needs The Bulldog and the Labrador are quite different when it comes to their exercise needs. So, owners should look at their individual puppies and use their judgement, or speak to their vet if unsure. Lab Exercise Needs The Labrador is a very athletic and energetic breed who needs about an hour of exercise a day, plus lots of playtime in the backyard. Long walks and games of fetch or Frisbee are an excellent choice for an active Lab, and of course, he does enjoy swimming. This purebred dog needs a family that can offer enough exercise. Without enough exercise, Labs can easily become overweight and unhappy. Bulldog Exercise Needs This is at odds with the Bulldog. The unhealthy conformation of the Bulldog breed has led to some real problems with exercising. Short walks and a game of tug-of-war are enough to keep this breed in shape. His flat face means breathing can be quite difficult, particularly on hot days. We will look more at these problems in a moment. Bulldogs should be kept indoors during especially warm days, as they can be prone to severe breathing issues which can be made worse by heat. Also, unlike the Labrador, who loves to swim, the Bulldog cannot be left alone in water that is deeper than his elbows. If it does, the puppy will likely have the health issues that accompany this face shape. This means overheating and over-exercising can be a real problem. Moderate exercise is usually enough for one of these puppies, but sadly, some may even struggle with this amount. Bulldog Lab Mix Health and Care As many of us know, purebred dogs have been excessively bred throughout the years by breeders struggling to maintain breed standard. What has resulted is a very small gene pool in which genetic disease is continuously passed down to new generations. Supporters of crossbreeding point out the practice enlarges the gene pool and in turn may reduce the chances of health problems being passed down. But, there is still no guarantee that cross breeds are healthier. In fact, many specialists argue that purebred dogs and crossbreed dogs are still equally susceptible to inheriting genetic diseases. For more information on the conflict of crossbreeding, click here. Bulldog Health Issues While it is true that many experts insist cross breeds are healthier than purebreds, the reality is that there is no guarantee of what you are going to get with a hybrid dog. In this case especially, prospective owners of a Bulldog or Bulldog cross need to be aware of the health issues of the breed. The Bulldog suffers from a very serious breathing issue called Brachycephaly Airway Obstruction Syndrome as a result of his squashed face. This is unpleasant and dangerous for the dog and can be devastating for an owner both emotionally and financially down the road. The Bulldog also suffers from an issue known as Screw Tail , which is a health complication resulting in dogs with very curly tails, like the Bulldog. There are a number of other health problems your Bulldog crossbreed could face that you should be aware of. With a lifespan of years, you might not get to enjoy your dog as long as you would like. Other Bulldog Problems The purebred Bulldog is also prone to: Overheating Skin issues like allergies, eczema, dry skin, and acne Arthritis. Structural health problems English Bulldogs and Labrador Retrievers are two beloved dog breeds. Even the most robust Labrador, when crossed with a purebred Bulldog, cannot guarantee a healthy Bulldog Lab mix. Bulldogs vs Labradors These two breeds were created for very different purposes but both have evolved from their original jobs to become beloved canine companions. The Bulldog is a low to medium energy pet, not much of a barker, and good with children and other animals. This sweet natured dog is unfortunately burdened by some significant health problems linked to its distinctive head and body structure. The Labrador Retriever was first developed in Newfoundland, Canada as a working dog for fishermen. The breed then became a valued sporting dog, retrieving waterfowl and other game brought down by hunters. Besides being a popular family pet, the Lab is also used extensively as a service dog for the disabled, and as a working search and rescue dog. When you combine these two dogs, any of these features in any combination can be prominent. But they can take more after one parent than the other when it comes to physical characteristics. The English Bulldog is a thickset, medium sized dog. Adult males are about 50 pounds and females should be around 40 pounds. They are stout dogs, generally inches tall at the withers. Labrador Retriever males range from pounds; females are pounds. Like all cross-breed dogs, an individual Bulldog Lab mix puppy could end up falling anywhere between the small and large ends of the height and weight scale. Generally, their weight can range from around pounds and they can be between inches tall. The average Bullador will have a muscular, sturdy body, large head, and somewhat jowly face. Like overall body size, the head size and shape and droopiness of the face can vary from one dog to another. Labrador Bulldog mix coat The Labrador Retriever has a double coat, with a short top coat and a warm undercoat that sheds seasonally. The Bulldog also sheds, but generally less than the Lab. Expect your Bulldog Lab mix to have a short, dense coat. There are three recognized coat colors for the Lab, all solid: black, yellow, and chocolate. The English Bulldog has a much wider range of coat colors and patterns. Recognized colors are red, white, fawn, and fallow—in any combination. Markings include brindle, piebald, ticked, masks, and tipping. Bullador coat color can be any shade of brown from dark to light, and also black or white. Markings can be brindle, brindle with white, and piebald black or brown with white is common. Keep in mind that your mixed breed dog could have more of an outgoing Lab temperament, more of a placid Bulldog temperament, or a combination of both. For the Bulldog Lab mix, this is especially true if your dog has the famous Labrador energy and enthusiasm. Bulldog and Labrador mix exercise The typical Bulldog will have a much lower energy level than a Lab. Because of their short noses, Bulldogs often have difficulty breathing during exercise in extreme hot or cold weather. Labs are high-spirited and very active dogs. They enjoy lots of interactive play sessions and outdoor activities, including being in and around the water. If your dog favors its Lab ancestors in physical appearance and energy level, expect an active dog that needs regular exercise. Remember that the activity of short nosed dogs should be monitored in very cold or hot weather. The big problem here with a Bulldog Lab mix is you could have a dog with the enthusiasm of the Labrador, but the breathing problems of a Bulldog. Bulldog Lab mix health The most important consideration in the decision to acquire a Bullador is the possible health problems your dog could inherit, especially from the Bulldog side. Common health problems of Labs include centronuclear myopathy a type of muscular dystrophy , exercise induced collapse, hip and elbow dysplasia, and certain heart and eye diseases. Reputable breeders will test for dysplasia and have the results certified and available for your review. In , an important genetic study of the Bulldog was published. Researchers found that the breed has an extreme lack of genetic diversity, due in part to breeders selecting for the desired Bulldog physical traits. Sadly, many of these characteristic traits cause Bulldogs to suffer from significant health problems. The researchers concluded that even with drastic changes to Bulldog breeding practices, such as outcrossing with other breeds, the existing Bulldog genetic stock is so unhealthy that there is little chance of improving the health of future generations. Brachycephaly Short muzzled dogs like Bulldogs and Pugs are brachycephalic, and often suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. Dogs with BOAS have difficulty breathing, especially during exercise and hot weather. The breed also has a very large tongue and palate, as well as a lower jaw that is pushed forward. All these features combine to produce life-threatening health problems such as sleep apnea, exercise intolerance, gagging, pneumonia, and heatstroke. Brachycephalic syndrome is the leading cause of death in the breed. Chondrodysplasia and hemivertebrae Chondrodysplasia is an inherited skeletal disorder like dwarfism in humans that has been incorporated into short legged breeds like the Bulldog and Dachshund. Dogs with this condition can suffer from a variety of painful problems like hip and elbow dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, luxating patella, and hemivertebrae. It is a congenital deformity that creates the desired curled tail of these breeds, but it also causes serious spinal abnormalities. Skin and dental problems in Bulldogs Bulldogs are prone to chronic skin conditions because of the excessive folds in the skin. Conditions like dermatitis, acne, and folliculitis are common and require regular treatment. Excessive skin folds on the face can also cause eye problems. The undershot jaw of the Bulldog can lead to tooth overcrowding and other dental problems. Bulldogs are more prone to dental health issues than other breeds. Their brachycephaly can make anesthesia risky, an important consideration when a dog needs frequent dental procedures. The average life expectancy of the Bulldog is a depressing six years. And they are not six comfortable years. Labrador Retrievers have a lifespan of 12 years, quite a bit longer than a Bulldog. The Bullador usually loves children and can get along fine with other pets. Read on to learn more about these fun dogs and see if they might be right for your family! Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Bullador Puppies Image Credit: Charles Brutlag, Shutterstock Bulladors are a popular choice among pet owners for their playful, affectionate, and loyal nature. These puppies are known for being friendly and sociable, making them great family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, making them suitable for first-time pet owners. Their short, dense coat is easy to groom and comes in a variety of colors such as black, brown, or brindle. They have a moderate energy level and enjoy playing and going on walks, but they also have a tendency to be more relaxed and laid-back than purebred Labradors. Because they are fairly common, you may also be able to find a Bullador in an animal shelter near you. Adopting an adult dog can give you a better idea of their health and temperament. It can also save a life! They tend to be friendly, sociable, and playful. Both breeds are intelligent, although a Bulldog can be a bit more stubborn. This means training your Bullador may be more challenging than training a Labrador. However, with consistency, it can be done. Bulladors are very loyal to their families. They are also companion dogs that like to be near you all the time. They do not do well when left alone for a long time. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Bulladors are excellent family dogs. They are friendly and playful. Like both of their parents, Bulladors grow very fond of their families and like to be around them all the time. They like to fetch, go on long hikes, run with their owners, or do just about any other activity as long as it is with you. While Bulladors are not usually aggressive, they are medium to large-sized dogs so they should always be watched around small children. They are also protective of their families and will not hesitate to protect you if needed. Yes, Bulladors generally get along quite well with other pets. Even if they are a little wary of a new doggy friend at first, they will usually warm up to them after a while and live together without any problems. A post shared by Jennifer Quast gualcomole Things to Know When Owning a Bullador: Bulladors can be wonderful pets if you are willing to give them what they need to be happy and healthy. It is important to do your research before getting any dog and the Bullador is no exception. The following will give you a breakdown of what you need to know before deciding to bring a Bullador into your home. In general, Bulladors need high-quality large or medium-sized formulated dog food. Like both of their parents, Bulladors really like food. If they are not monitored, they will overeat and gain weight which can contribute to a host of health issues. The activity level of your dog will also impact how much and what kind of food they should eat. They like most outdoor activities including running, hiking, fetch, swimming, tug-of-war, and anything else you can engage them in that will stimulate their bodies and minds. Bulladors also like spending time running around and playing in a fenced yard. This is ideal if you have children. Without enough activity, they may become destructive and bored. They will also gain weight quickly if not getting enough exercise. The earlier you start training them, the more successful you will be. They respond very well to consistent training with positive reinforcement. If you are not familiar with dog training, you should consider working with a professional trainer. Their coat is short and they shed a moderate amount. Regular brushing can help with shedding. You should also check their ears at least once each week for signs of infection and brush their teeth regularly. The combination of the two leads to a dog that is healthier than a purebred Bulldog, but still prone to some health concerns that any potential Bullador owner should be aware of. Often these can be treated by careful monitoring of the diet and working with your veterinarian. Eye Conditions — Both Bulldogs and Labradors can develop eye conditions so Bulladors are also prone to them. These can lead to worsening eyesight as your dog ages, or even blindness. It is a painful condition and can prevent your dog from moving around comfortably. This can, in turn, lead to obesity and all the related health problems that come with it. Obesity — Bulladors love eating and if they have other conditions that prevent them from being active, they will put on weight quickly. Obesity can lead to heart disease, cancer, and other debilitating health conditions. This can be fatal if not recognized and treated right away. Both English Bulldogs and Labradors can be prone to bloat. This can lead to serious breathing problems. Male vs Female There are no noticeable differences in size, temperament, or health between male and female Bulladors. Usually, they will be two or more colors. Some common color combinations are black and white, tan and white, or tan, brown, and white. They Make Good Watchdogs Even though Labradors tend to be very friendly with everyone they meet, Bulldogs are a little more territorial and wary of strangers. Most Bulladors seem to inherit this characteristic from their Bulldog ancestry. When you combine the two, it can be difficult to know which type will win out or if your puppy will end up somewhere in the middle. Bulldogs tend to be short and muscular while Labs are longer-limbed and usually thinner. A post shared by Otis otis. These dogs are great companions for the family who can keep them active and healthy. A healthy lifestyle is the best way to ward off some of the degenerative health conditions Bulladors are prone to. In return, your Bullador will shower you and your family with affection. This breed will be a loyal, loving, and playful friend for everyone in your household. Looking for more crossbreeds? We have full lists of both Labrador Retriever and Bulldog Mixes! A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement.

Pleasant Puppies - Warwickshire About us.Jim and I are not professional breeders, this is Cathryn's hobby, We are both medical in our back grounds but Jim is now retired and Cathryn is semi- retired. We really started breeding after a throw away comment while walking our dog Lizzy one day with some friends. The comment was " wouldn't they make beautiful puppies! The rest as they say is history. We originally bred mini F1B Goldendoodles, but both of our Goldendoodle girls are now retired. She is an intelligent, playful, obedient people centred dog. She loves running around the fields or chilling by the fire in the winter. Her greatest enjoyment is always cuddles time! Maggie Mae will be bred with a health tested stud miniature poodle. So her puppies will be medium sized dogs. We, well mostly Cathryn, love the whole process of breeding and rearing the puppies. The puppy cuddling, the weaning and meeting exited new puppy owner but less so the puppy poop! We have a lady called Fiona who lives in our village and helps us out with looking after the pups. Cathryn has a team of puppy cuddling friends who love it as much as she does. We play the litter a cd of sounds including traffic and fireworks. We are fortunate to live in rural north Warwickshire and to have a house big enough to be able to deliver and rear the puppies within our home in a room off of the kitchen, which is warm and dry. From there, when the puppies are a bit older, we can take them out to a safe enclosed yard where they are fed and can play. Then comes the fun of herding them all back in again! We have a maximum of one litter a year and our dogs and stud dogs have all of the relevant heath testing before mating. The puppies go to their new homes having been vet checked vet and microchipped. We are happy to give the first vaccination if you wish us to. The puppies come with 4 weeks insurance, puppy food, toys , information on how to look after them and of course a smelly blanket which is rubbed over mum and the litter. Our puppies are fun and good natured and a number of previous owners have returned for another pup from the next litter! We are always sad and yet happy to see them finally leave to go to their new families. At 8 weeks, the puppies are ready to join their new families and we are ready to see them go! Why not check out our website at www. Location: North West, United Kingdom 2. Curtabernedoodles Curtabernedoodles is the best breeder for you to work with if you believe that you will be ready to bring a Bernedoodle into your life within the next year or so. Curtabernedoodles is a business based in the United Kingdom that serves the entirety of the United Kingdom and Europe. They are dedicated to the Bernedoodle breed and professionally conduct themselves when providing breeding and stud services. In addition to that, they train puppies. The owner of the company has a degree in the field of health and care. Breeding facilities are not eligible to purchase puppies from this company. They offer families the opportunity to buy puppies. All the puppies there were born and raised in enchanting settings from the moment they were born. Puppies come in several sizes , each with a unique combination of trio and bio colors. After you have decided to purchase a puppy from them, you will be required to deposit euros so that your name can be reserved on the master list. Because of the increasing demand, you should consider putting in some effort to acquire a healthy Bernedoodle for your household. There are several price ranges available, each of which is determined by the size and characteristics of the product. A suitable Bernedoodle can be purchased for anywhere between 1, and 3, euros. Contact Details:. The miniature bernedoodle may also vary in color and coat with the mini or toy poodle daddy being credited with the majority of these specific conformations. Miniature Bernedoodle Size Depending on the breeder, there is a great size range in the mini-bernedoodles. Some breeders use miniature poodles, other toy poodles, to obtain the smaller body size. Mini bernedoodles can range anywhere from 15 pounds to 40 pounds depending on the dogs used for breeding. HC Bernedoodles specializes in these special mini-bernedoodle puppies. Though it's important to note, size of the puppy is often not known until after birth. We've had a 7 pound toy produce a 50 pound as an adult offspring. First, and possibly the most popular is the traditional black tri color which consists of black, white and tan or rust colors and will strongly resemble the Bernese mountain dog's colors. Then there,s the sable tri color which will consist of any sable color, tan and white markings and is considered to be more of a speciality color. Sable is a color that will generally carry a fading gene and will lighten in color as they age. We also have the bi colors which are most generally black with the white Bernese markings. You may encounter a solid color mini bernedoodle as well and they will generally consist of a solid black with a few small white markings that will generally disappear as they mature in size. At HC Bernedoodles we avoid breeding solid colors due to being the least appealing look in the Bernedoodle. We may see a more wavey coat in some vs. While the wavey coat may be more appealing in appearance, the curly coat is more suitable for allergy sufferers due to generally being less shedding than the wavey coat. It is difficult to predict these coats as young puppies due to observing a puppy coat vs. Miniature Bernedoodle Temperament The miniature bernedoodle may be more active than the larger Bernedoodle breeds due to the toy or miniature poodle being more of an active breed. They are a highly recommended family dog breed and are tremendous with children due to carrying the genes of the affectionate, loving Bernese mountain dog. While intelligence simplifies training in the mini bernedoodle it can work in a negative sense as well. If training is neglected you may see bad habits develop earlier than in breeds that may not be known to be as intelligent. Therefore it is highly recommended to start training at an early age and be consistent in training exercises. Health Health is possibly the greatest attribute in the F1 mini bernedoodle. Being a smaller size hybrid cross they are the least likely to inherit congenital health problems, with the likelihood of hip or elbow dysplasia being greatly reduced due to the much smaller size. Exercise The miniature bernedoodle requires a moderate amount of exercise. Daily exercise is generally sufficient. If you would like to be notified, please contact us and we will notify you when our Mini Bernedoodles become available. Mini Bernedoodles Past Litters.

Close Instructions Wash and clean with soap and water. For indoor use. Extreme heat can cause pan to warp. Training your puppy Stage 1: Getting Off to a Good Start Create an enclosed small space where your puppy can be confined but still feel like part of the family. Make the space large enough for the litter pan to be at least 3 to 4 feet from the puppy's crate and water bowl. Fill the pan with litter or recycled paper litter to the fill line when the puppy is not there. This prevents him from associating it with the sound of kibble being put in his food bowl. Place a small amount of the puppy's urine or solid waste in the pan to help pet understand what the pan is used for. Don't scold; praise your puppy profusely and give him a treat when he is using the litter pan! Stage 2: Be in Control Set up a routine of feeding and exercise. Have fresh water available until a few hours before crating for the night. Feed your puppy at the same time each day, removing the bowl after 1 to 20 minutes. Keep your puppy on a leash while outside the pen area. You will keep accidents to a minimum when you have control over your puppy at all times until your puppy is fully trained. Stage 3: Build Good Habits Place the puppy in the pan regularly when you take your puppy out of the crate, after sleeping or exercising and at mealtimes. Schedule exercise with your puppy. Until your puppy is fully trained, encourage pet to eliminate in the pan before exercising. Using the phrase "puppy go here" when the puppy actually goes in the pan will build the association between the pan and the activity. Eventually, you will be able to use the phrase as a cue for your pet to go potty. After your puppy has used the pan a few times, fill the pan with litter to the fill line and place the usual material over it. After your puppy has become familiar with the smell of the litter, slowly begin to use increasingly smaller pieces of the other material, uncovering more of the litter every couple of days. Use a command or cue phrase such as "puppy go here" or "do your thing" before you start training to help him understand the association between the place and the purpose. When your puppy is used to the new area, put the litter pan-filled with grass or other material from the area-in the spot. When your puppy is comfortable with the ground material in the pan, replace it with litter or recycled paper litter. After the pet has been using the pan outside with the litter with complete reliability, start moving the litter-filled pan toward the house a little bit each day until you can bring it into the house. Accidents are part of the process, but if you follow these basic house training guidelines, you can get the newest member of your family on the right track. To potty train your puppy, establish a routine Puppies do best on a regular schedule. The schedule teaches them that there are times to eat, times to play and times to do their business. Typically, a puppy can control their bladder one hour for every month of age. So if your puppy is 2 months old, they can hold it for about two hours. Take your puppy outside frequently—at least every two hours—and immediately after they wake up, during and after playing, and after eating or drinking. Pick a bathroom spot outside, and always take your puppy on a leash to that spot. While your puppy is relieving themselves, use a specific word or phrase that you can eventually use before they go to remind them what to do. Take them out for a longer walk or some playtime only after they have eliminated. Reward your puppy every time they eliminate outdoors. This step is vital, because rewarding your dog for going outdoors is the only way to teach what's expected of them. Put your puppy on a regular feeding schedule. What goes into a puppy on a schedule comes out of a puppy on a schedule. Depending on their age, puppies may need to be fed two or three times a day. Feeding your puppy at the same times each day will make it more likely that they'll eliminate at consistent times as well, making house training easier for both of you. Pick up your puppy's water dish about two and a half hours before bedtime to reduce the likelihood that they'll need to relieve themselves during the night. Most puppies can sleep for approximately seven hours without needing a bathroom break. If your puppy does wake you up in the night, don't make a big deal of it; otherwise, they will think it is time to play and won't want to go back to sleep. Turn on as few lights as possible, don't talk to or play with your puppy, take them out to the spot where they relieve themselves and then return them to bed. Top 10 pet tips Sign up to receive our exclusive e-book full of important information about caring for your pet, including training techniques and answers to frequently asked questions. Tether your puppy to you or a nearby piece of furniture with a six-foot leash if you are not actively training or playing. Watch for signs that your puppy needs to go out. Some signs are obvious, such as barking or scratching at the door, squatting, restlessness, sniffing around or circling. When you see these signs, immediately grab the leash and take them outside to their bathroom spot. If they eliminate, praise them and reward with a treat. Keep your puppy on leash in the yard. During the house training process, your yard should be treated like any other room in your house. Give your puppy some freedom in the house and yard only after they become reliably house trained. When you can't supervise, confine When you're unable to watch your puppy at all times, restrict them to an area small enough that they won't want to eliminate there. Browse Dog Crates on Amazon. You can use a portion of a bathroom or laundry room blocked off with baby gates. Or you may want to crate train your puppy. Be sure to learn how to use a crate humanely as a method of confinement. If your puppy has spent several hours in confinement, you'll need to take them directly to their bathroom spot as soon as you return. Mistakes happen Expect your puppy to have a few accidents in the house—it's a normal part of house training. Here's what to do when that happens: Without a lot of drama, immediately take them to their outside bathroom spot. Praise your pup and give a treat if they finish there. Don't punish your puppy for eliminating in the house. If you find a soiled area, just clean it up. Rubbing your puppy's nose in it, taking them to the spot and scolding them or any other punishment will only make them afraid of you or afraid to eliminate in your presence. Punishment will do more harm than good. Clean the soiled area thoroughly. Puppies are highly motivated to continue soiling in areas that smell like urine or feces. It's extremely important that you use these supervision and confinement procedures to minimize the number of accidents. Make plans for when you're away If you have to be away from home more than four or five hours a day, this may not be the best time for you to get a puppy. Instead, you may want to consider an older house-trained dog who can wait for your return. If you already have a puppy and must be away for long periods of time, you may need to: Arrange for someone, such as a responsible neighbor or a professional pet sitter, to take them for bathroom breaks. Alternatively, train them to eliminate in a specific place indoors. Be aware, however, that doing this can prolong the process of house training. Teaching your puppy to eliminate on newspaper may create a life-long surface preference, meaning that even as an adult they may eliminate on any newspaper lying around the living room. If you plan to paper-train, confine them to an area with enough room for a sleeping space, a playing space and a separate place to eliminate. In the designated elimination area, use either pet pee pads, newspapers cover the area with several layers of newspaper or a sod box. To make a sod box, place sod in a container such as a child's small, plastic swimming pool. You can also find dog litter products at a pet supply store. If you have to clean up an accident outside the designated elimination area, put the soiled rags or paper towels inside that area afterward to help your puppy recognize the scented area as the place where they are supposed to eliminate.

Although she stands no more than 10 inches tall and weighs between 4—6 pounds, the Toy Poodle has a big, playful personality that can fill up a room. While frequently associated with France, Standard Poodles were first developed in Germany, where they were used in duck hunting. They have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Poodles of all sizes have curly coats with extensive grooming needs. Their coat grows continuously, calling for a trim every four to six weeks. However, there is no such thing as a completely "hypoallergenic" dog. People with allergies should spend time with the breed before officially bringing home a Toy Poodle puppy. But during this long life , they are predisposed to a few health issues that may require care. Pet parents may benefit from investing in pet insurance early in life. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a group of diseases that cause a breakdown of the photoreceptor cells rods and cones on the retina. Initially, the dog may have difficulty seeing in the dark, but the condition can cause blindness over time. PRA is an inherited disease and there are currently no effective treatments available. Patellar Luxation The patella kneecap is a small bone that normally sits in a groove within the femur at the knee. In dogs with patellar luxation, the patella moves luxates outside of its assigned groove when the knee is flexed. This movement can cause discomfort and may eventually lead to arthritis. Many pets will skip or run on three legs when the patella is out of place. While some cases will correct themselves, in more severe cases the patella remains out of place. In mild cases, joint supplements such as fish oils and glucosamine or anti-inflammatory medications are used to control pain and prevent arthritis. In more severely affected dogs, surgery may be recommended. This causes pain and limping occur as the bone breaks down. In some cases, pain can be controlled with medications. In severe cases, surgery to remove the head of the femur may be recommended. Symptoms include visible debris, redness, odor, head shaking, and scratching. If any of these signs are noted, take your dog to the veterinarian for an exam. In most cases, ear infections can be resolved by cleaning the ear and with topical medications. Toy Poodles develop ear infections more often than most other breeds. This may be partly due to Poodles having long ear canals with excess curly hair to trap in moisture and debris. Trimming not plucking the hair from the ear may help reduce the incidence of ear infections. Dogs with chronic or recurring ear infections frequently have allergies that should be addressed. Dental Disease Dental disease is one of the most common conditions seen in dogs as they age, especially in small breeds like the Toy Poodle. Dental disease occurs when bacterial tartar and plaque build up, leading to inflammation of the tissues around the teeth—and eventually to tooth and bone decay. Daily tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental disease, though some diets, treats, and chew toys also help prevent plaque and tartar. Tracheal Collapse Tracheal collapse occurs when the trachea commonly called the windpipe flattens. This happens due to weak cartilage rings or the sagging of a membrane along the trachea. Most cases are treated using medications, but in severe cases where breathing is impeded, surgery may be necessary. Toy poodles are likely genetically predisposed to tracheal collapse. When on walks, use a harness instead of a collar, as pressure on the trachea can cause further damage. The condition causes a deficiency in a protein called the von Willebrand factor, which is necessary for platelets to stick together and form a clot. In dogs that are deficient in this protein, the blood may have difficulty clotting, which can lead to bleeding from the nose, vulva, bladder, or gums. Additionally, dogs with this condition may bleed for a long time after trauma or surgery. If there is concern about VWD, a screening test may be performed. This test measures how long it takes for a small cut in the mouth to stop bleeding. If the time is longer than usual, additional testing is needed to confirm VWD. Because some dogs with VWD do not have notably prolonged bleeding until later in adulthood, blood levels of von Willebrand factor can be measured to help with diagnosis. Most veterinarians recommend testing for VWD prior to any planned surgery, including spays, neuters, and dewclaw removals. Puppies should be fed a diet formulated specifically for puppies or designated for all life stages. For Toy Poodle adults, dental-focused diets may be recommended by your veterinarian to help prevent dental disease. Toy poodle puppies, however, should eat three to four small meals per day on a consistent schedule to help maintain their blood sugar. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on the dog food provides valuable information for pet parents. Just remember: In small breeds like the Toy Poodle, calories in treats add up quickly. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in skin and joint supplements , fish oil, and even in some specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids act as natural anti-inflammatories that help support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart. They are playful and self-confident when socialized at a young age. While relatively calm, Toy Poodles enjoy playtime and exercise with the family. The breed is gentle with children and other pets, though all interactions between dogs and kids should be supervised. Because these pups are so tiny, they can accidentally be hurt during playtime. Toy Poodles have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Toy Poodle Behavior Toy Poodles bond closely to their families and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They can also be sensitive to stress, and sudden changes in the home environment may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, because Poodles are so smart, they need mental stimulation to keep themselves entertained—and out of trouble. Bored dogs are more likely to bark, jump, be destructive, or misbehave. Toy Poodle Training Toy poodles want to please their owners. Paired with their smarts, this makes them an easy breed to train. As always, training is most successful when based on positive reinforcement with praise and tasty treats. Fun Activities for Toy Poodle Obedience training. Toy poodles double down on the froofroo rep with their tiny size and by sometimes sporting those fancy haircuts. But trust us, poodles are more than happy to get down and dirty. In fact, poodles started life as hunting dogs for the rich and famous in Europe. What made them so popular, however, is their incredible intelligence. Generally regarded as one of the smartest dog breeds , poodles are highly trainable, extremely eager to please people, and love being the center of attention through tricks and activities. None of that has changed over the years: The poodle consistently ranks as one of the 10 most popular breeds in the world. Appearance Toy, miniature , and standard poodles are all the same breed of dog, so they'll look more or less the same—except for their size. Toy poodles are the smallest of the three, standing no more than 10 inches tall and generally weighing right around 5 pounds. All three classifications of poodle have squarish bodies, generally about as long as they are tall. Poodles have a proud bearing, with heads kept high and their large, dark-colored eyes looking alert. Poodle coats come in a stunning array of colors from black, through the browns and yellow colors all the way to white. Bi-colored coats are also seen, though not hugely common. Poodles don't shed much , making them great for owners with allergies. While there aren't technically any hypoallergenic dogs , most people will find toy poodles close enough to not really quibble over it. Additionally, groomers can style a poodle's fur many different ways, and the breed has become famous for its outlandish show cuts. They tend to consider themselves a vital part of the family, have strong personalities, and learn things in a flash. They will get legitimately disgruntled if they think they're being left out of family activities. Of course, this temperament is kind of a double-edged sword. Toy poodles are devoted family pets who love to be the center of attention, learn tricks, and take walks. They're excellent in agility and obedience training and will play with children for hours. Because of their extreme intelligence, poodles are even quick to learn how to engage in more complex games such as hide and seek. On the flip side, poodles can develop common stress behaviors associated with separation anxiety. If you leave them alone for too long or don't give them the attention they deserve, these pups can be passive aggressive and do things they know you don't like—while you're there to watch. The toy poodle's teensy-tiny size makes it tempting to carry him everywhere, and he's so cute that it's no surprise owners are tempted to spoil him rotten. But, again, poodles are brilliant. A toy poodle who is carried everywhere will start to expect to be carried everywhere. As a result, every poodle owner should take full advantage of the breed's brilliance and eagerness to please, and obedience train their pet as quickly as possible. Living Needs Here is where the toy poodle's aptitude as an ideal family pet really shines. While poodles can be active dogs and will require some kind of daily exercise, toy poodles can get all their needs taken care of right there on the living room floor. Nichols says these little dogs will be happy with whatever type and amount of exercise their owner provides. Their tiny size makes them marvelous apartment-dwellers , and their innate desire to be lapdogs makes them great for seniors and people with mobility issues. Poodles of all sizes make great therapy dogs , and toy poodles in particular will love sitting near you for hours at a time. Toy poodles do great in households with other dogs, and the breed's lower prey drive , high intelligence, and friendly attitude make them ideal for houses with cats as well. Poodles love children and are eager to play, but most vets and breeders will steer households with children under the age of 10 toward the miniature or standard varieties, simply because the toy poodles are so small. They can be easily hurt by a falling child or by being handled too roughly. Always supervise children when they play with any dog and teach them how to properly interact with pets. Care No breed is perfect, and for poodles the biggest setback is going to be their grooming needs. That coat that is so shed-free and allergy-friendly? It's going to need brushing. A lot of brushing —ideally, every day. Because his hair curls in on itself, it's extremely prone to matting and, if left unchecked, can cause skin infections and have to be shaved off entirely. Aside from the brushing, poodles will need a bath and haircut every four to six weeks. While show dogs have a variety of complicated cuts to choose from, most non-show owners opt for a more standard sporting cut because of its ease to maintain. Like all dogs, you'll need to trim his nails regularly. Special attention should be paid to the ears , as their hair will grow up inside the ear canal, trapping wax and dirt and leading to infections. Because toy varieties have the same number of teeth as other poodle varieties but their mouths are smaller, it's easy for food to get trapped and decay to occur rapidly. Health Though the three varieties of poodles are the same breed, they do not suffer from the same conditions. While the standard poodle will be more prone to bloat , toy poodles can be slightly more susceptible to blood clotting disorders including Von Willebrand's disease and hemophilia , Beck says. Finally, smaller dogs can have a higher propensity for dental problems. In addition to being at greater risk for tooth decay , they don't lose their puppy teeth as easily as bigger dogs, Beck says. Reputable toy poodle breeders will conduct all health tests recommended by the Canine Health Information Center. History The poodle is the national dog of France, which is why you'll hear many people refer to the standard poodle as the "French poodle. Today in France, the poodle is known as the caniche, which translates to "duck dog. Toy poodles began to see favor by the late 18th century, appearing in artwork and in the courts of French aristocracy. The American Kennel Club recognized the poodle as a registered breed in .Jinkee , a 5-year-old red toy poodle, has more than 70, followers on Instagram. Was this page helpful? Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description When groomed to show dog standards the body is meant to give off a square appearance. It is approximately the same length as the height at the withers. The skull is moderately rounded with a slight but definite stop. It has a long, straight muzzle. The dark, oval-shaped eyes are set somewhat far apart and are black or brown. The ears hang close to the head and are long and flat. Both the front and back legs are in proportion with the size of the dog. The topline is level. The tail is set and carried high. It is sometimes docked to half its length or less to make the dog look more balanced. Dewclaws may be removed. The oval-shaped feet are rather small and the toes are arched. The coat is either curly or corded. While it does not make the written show standard, some breeders are breeding parti-colored Poodles. See grooming for different types of Poodle clips. Temperament The Toy Poodle is remarkably intelligent. Highly responsive, it is said to be one of the most trainable breeds. Sweet, cheerful, perky and lively, it likes to be with people. Delightful, very amusing and keen. Socialize these dogs well. They make very good watchdogs for their size. Without the proper type and amount of exercise they may be high-strung and timid. Toy Poodles are generally good with other pets and dogs. Unless given rules to follow and limits as to what they are and are not allowed to do, this breed will tend to bark a lot. Do not let this small dog develop Small Dog Syndrome , human induced behaviors where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans. This causes varying degrees of behavior issues , including, but not limited, to snapping, growling, guarding , demanding, untrustworthiness with children and sometimes adults, sensitive, nervous, reserved with strangers and obsessive barking, as the dog tries to tell the humans what it is HE wants THEM to do. This little dog can be good with children, however is usually recommended for older children who know how to display leadership skills. The reason is that most humans treat the dog in such a way that makes it unsure just who the pack leader is in the human-dog relationship. The dog, in his mind, is convinced HE is the leader to humans. Height, Weight Height: up to 10 inches .The Toy Poodle is 10 inches or under at the highest point of the shoulders. Any Poodle that is more than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulders cannot compete in the AKC show ring as a Toy Poodle. Health Problems A long-lived breed, Poodles are, nevertheless, subject to many genetic diseases. Eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy can cause blindness. Skin conditions, possibly due to unskilled use of clippers. Brown Poodles tend to become prematurely gray. Living Conditions Toy Poodles are good for city life as well as country living. Given enough exercise, they are not active indoors. They will lie right next to you and are more sedate when indoors, although they love to play outdoors and are a highly intelligent breed, so they do like lots of thoughtful activities to stimulate their mentality. They will do okay without a yard. Exercise These are active little dogs that need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. Life Expectancy. Life Span Did You Know? Breeders developed Toy Poodles in 18th century England as smaller versions of their German predecessors. The Toy Poodle began to represent social status, and nobles would decorate their dogs in high fashion of the time. They became so popular, in fact, that they were one of the first toy breeds recognized by the Kennel Club. Toy Poodles are smart cookies. Their intelligence is one of their predominant features, and is often showcased during obedience training. These dogs have tremendous problem-solving capabilities that make them ideal for competitions. On the other hand, this same intelligence makes for an easily bored pup. They need mental stimulation, like challenging games and toys , to keep their busy minds occupied. The Toy Poodle may also be suspicious of strangers and slow to warm up to new people. This dog breed can adapt to a wide range of living situations due to their small size. As a matter of fact, they have trouble dealing with any kind of alone time. As such, the Toy Poodle is an excellent companion animal for people who love a little company. There are a few health conditions that Toy Poodles are more susceptible to than other dog breeds. For example, they may suffer from eye disorders, like cataracts, or blood clotting disorders, like Hemophilia. Because of their size, they may also bear the risk of dental crowding, kneecap migration, or trachea instability. With regular visits to the veterinarian, many of these potential health concerns can be comfortably managed. Owners typically have an easy time during obedience training with Toy Poodles. Their intelligence often hastens the training process. However, they can present destructive tendencies when left to their own devices for too long. Toy Poodles have famously low-shedding coats. They lack undercoats, so their shedding is minimal. Their fur is hypoallergenic and mats rather than sheds. These pups will only need to be groomed to prevent matting and increase shine. Usually, brushing your Toy Poodle once or twice a week and grooming every six weeks is sufficient. As a small dog breed, they are more prone to developing dental disease so good dental care is important. Poodles are an active breed in general, and Toy Poodles in specific are just as active. After a few laps around the kitchen, the Toy Poodle will tire out and happily sit by their owners during daily activities. The Toy Poodle stands at a mighty inches at the shoulder. Their weight ranges from pounds and usually averages around 8 pounds. Toy Poodles usually live 12 — 15 years. The Poodle coat is built for the water and even the Toy Poodle tends to have excellent, practically innate, swimming abilities. Featured Toy Poodle Article. Nutrition and Feeding Small dog breeds , such as the Toy Poodle, have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Discover more about how to offer your dog a balanced diet with our easy-to-follow guide. Grooming Toy Poodles Toy Poodles do not shed and are often though not always tolerated by allergic people. Their coats do take a great deal of care, though, generally requiring professional dog grooming , as well as regular combing and brushing at home. The poodle should be taken to a groomer about every six weeks to be clipped, or you can learn how to do it yourself. A groomer will also advise on ear care. Training Toy Poodles Poodles are a joy to train as they are clever, quick to learn and love working with their owner. They can also turn their paw to dog sports such as mini agility, heelwork to music and even obedience with no problems whatsoever - and in fact training and working with their owner will keep this often-busy little dog happy and relaxed. Best Family Dog Breeds The Toy Poodle can make a fabulous family dog but are better for older children and quiet households as, especially as puppies, they are very small and easily injured by rough or boisterous play. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them. Poodles - especially the ones you see in the show ring - seem to have all kinds of crazy hairdos but these often flamboyant-looking styles all started off with a purpose. Poodles were originally water-retrieving dogs but their coats could easily get water-logged and pull them down. The answer was to clip off all their hair but leave some around their vital organs to keep them warm, and around any vulnerable joints to protect from injury. Similar breeds:.