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References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI is caused by a degenerative disease of the pancreas. The pancreas has two distinct functions: i the regulation of the blood glucose level through secretion of the hormones insulin and glucagon the endocrine function into the blood and ii the secretion of substances into the intestine that are vital for the digestion of food. The latter is the exocrine function that fails in this disease. The usual cause of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in German Shepherd dogs is pancreatic acinar atrophy PAA , in which progressive destruction of the acinar cells of the pancreas occurs. The main chemical constituent of pancreatic juice is bicarbonate, this acts to neutralise acid from the stomach. It also contains enzymes which are proteins that act as catalysts in the chemical reactions that break down foodstuffs into molecules small enough to pass through the intestinal wall and be absorbed. These enzymes include proteases that break down protein into amino acids; lipase and phospholipase that break down fats; nucleases that breakdown nucleic acids DNA and RNA ; and amylase that breaks down starch and glycogen. EPI occurs when the acinar cells fail to produce sufficient pancreatic juice for the digestion process Simpson and Rishniw .The commonest reason for this in young GSDs is pancreatic acinar atrophy PAA in which acinar cells are progressive destroyed. The cause of pancreatic acinar atrophy in GSDs is unknown. However, it has been suggested that it may be an auto-immune disease because lymphocytic pancreatitis has been reported to precede the atrophy Wiberg et al a, Hall et al , Wiberg .The endocrine function of the pancreas is usually spared so diabetes mellitus is not usually seen concurrently Neiger et al .In time, EPI can lead to severe malnutrition because affected dogs, although eating normally, may not be able to digest and absorb sufficient nutrients. Deficiencies of specific vitamins including B12 cobalamin , E and K may occur Williams .Dogs with EPI show mild to marked weight loss, despite being ravenously hungry. Other signs include: large volumes of diarrhoea of variable consistency, which may be foul-smelling; flatulence and intestinal borborgymi gurgling. Sometimes there is vomiting and increased drinking and coats may become poor and greasy Williams , Hall et al , Simpson and Rishniw .Unless successfully treated, there can be severe emaciation with muscle wasting and weakness and, eventually, widespread failure of metabolic homeostasis and death Williams , Simpson and Rishniw .Treatment involves oral supplementation of pancreatic enzymes and regular injections of Vitamin B12 and, in some cases, other vitamins Williams , Hall et al , Simpson and Rishniw .Various dietary modifications have been recommended, in particular, a low fat diet but this is controversial Simpson and Rishniw .Dogs with secondary bacterial overgrowth may require antibiotics. Some of these may have been euthanased because of the cost of treatment, which is significant and necessarily life-long Williams .Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact The welfare implications of EPI can be severe. Affected dogs appear ravenously hungry most of the time. They may, from time to time, also feel ill, nauseous suffering from vomiting and suffer from abdominal discomfort. Unless successfully treated, the disease progresses to cause weakness due to muscle wastage. If the disease causes vitamin K deficiency, dogs may show spontaneous bleeds Williams .As the disease progresses, dogs become too weak to maintain normal activities, display increasing malaise, and become sicker and sicker as their body systems close down and they die of starvation. The intense hunger can lead to ingestion of inappropriate materials, which may cause painful secondary gastrointestinal upsets or gastrointestinal obstructions. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact EPI can occur in dogs of any age but in GSDs signs usually become apparent between 6 months and 6 years of age Hall et al .Batchelor et al b found the median age of diagnosis in GSDs was 36 months. If left untreated dogs starve to death over weeks and months. Treatment has to be life-long. Return to top 4. We are not aware of any more recent estimates. From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are GSDs Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around , Return to top 5. Diagnosis If signs typically associated with this condition, of hunger, weight loss and diarrhoea, are shown by a GSD of less than 5 years of age, EPI is likely to be suspected. EPI can be confirmed by measurement of blood trypsinogen levels. This is the serum trypsin-like immunoreactivity TLI test. Other tests may be needed to rule out other possible causes and complications Williams , Simpson and Rishniw .Low TLI concentrations 0. Recently a test to measure faecal elastase levels has been developed for EPI diagnosis but the TLI test remains the most trusted Simpson and Rishniw .Return to top 6. Genetics It was thought that EPI in GSDs had an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance Weber and Freudiger , Westermarck , Moeller et al , Clark et al , however, this is now not believed to be the case Westermarck et al .Instead, it is thought that EPI is a polygenic disorder involving multiple genes and possibly environmental factors also Clark , Westermarck et al .This has yet to be confirmed. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? The genetics of the condition remain unclear and it is not known if carriers animals that can pass the disease to their offspring without being affected themselves exist Clark .When choosing a puppy, it is important to check that its parents are free of EPI. The older the parents are, the less likely they are to go on to develop EPI at a later date. There are currently no tests that can show whether or not a puppy is likely to develop EPI when older. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem As far as we are aware, there are no breeding schemes aimed at tackling EPI in GSDs. It has been recommended that animals that have EPI should not be used for breeding but EPI does not always become apparent prior to breeding age , nor should pairs that have produced affected offspring be paired again. Likewise, line-breeding is not recommended breeding from dogs which share common ancestors but are not closely related Clark , Steiner .These restrictions might result in significant decrease in the size of the gene pool significantly. EPI is not the only genetic disease of GSDs that has significant welfare effects; others include megaoesophagus, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, haemophilia A, von Willebrand disease, and hereditary multifocal renal cystadenocarcinoma and nodular dermatofibrosis Wahl et al .Therefore, when developing breeding strategies to tackle EPI, it is desirable to also take these into account. The ideal is for breeding programmes to be informed by the results of disease monitoring programmes and for the estimation of breeding values EBV — the relative genetic values of animals in the breeding population — in relation to breeding to eliminate these diseases Lewis et al .EBVs are calculated using all available information on the dog including its pedigree, health status and physical characteristics. Planning matings based on EBVs has proven successful in reducing the prevalence of other diseases, eg in reducing the prevalence of epilepsy in the Belgian Tervuren Oberbauer .This may be a good approach to simultaneously tackling several genetic welfare problems in GSDs, although it may take many generations. For this approach to be successful, the cooperation of the majority of GSD breeders is required so that the breeding values of individuals can be established. Opinions differ as to whether it is ethically acceptable to breed animals whose welfare is likely to be compromised. Another approach to reducing the prevalence of EPI and which avoids risks of further inbreeding would be to outbreed with unaffected dogs of other breeds. The development of a genetic test would be likely to be very helpful in tackling the disease. Return to top 9. How Vets Diagnose EPI in Dogs A veterinarian may suspect that a dog has EPI based solely on their symptoms and breed or history of health problems, but lab tests are still necessary because other diseases can have similar clinical signs. Here are several tests that can help diagnose EPI in dogs. In dogs with EPI, blood-trypsin levels are significantly lower than they should be. The test is easy to perform by drawing blood, but dogs cannot eat for hours before the sample is taken. However, they may be appropriate under some circumstances. Folate another type of B vitamin levels can be normal, high, or low. In severe cases of EPI, dogs may become deficient in vitamin K, which can lead to bleeding. Treatment for Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency in Dogs In theory, treatment for EPI in dogs is fairly straightforward: Dogs eat the missing pancreatic digestive enzymes with their meals, and any other abnormalities, like low cobalamin levels, are addressed. Unfortunately, the reality of treating EPI can be a bit more complicated. Raw Pancreas Meat Another source of pancreatic enzymes is raw pancreas meat from other animals. You can purchase the organ meat from butchers, raw pet food suppliers, and other sources, but handling and feeding raw animal products increases the risk of food-borne illnesses like salmonellosis for everyone in the house. Tips for Feeding Your Dog Raw Pancreas Meat You can grind up and freeze pancreas meat in the appropriate portions and then thaw it before mixing it thoroughly with each meal. Medication that decreases stomach acid secretion, like omeprazole, may be used if this is a concern. Antibiotics Some dogs with EPI develop an overgrowth of bacteria in their intestinal tract , which can be managed with antibiotics often Tylosin. Many dogs only require antibiotic treatment for a month or two as their condition improves, but some may benefit from long-term treatment. Their symptoms can improve over the course of a few days to weeks. Ask if switching to a different diet makes sense. EPI Diets for Dogs There is no one type of diet that benefits all or even most dogs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Some dogs seem to do better when switched to a highly digestible food that is relatively low in fat and fiber, while others improve with more fiber or fat, or they do just fine with whatever it is that they normally eat. What do you feed a dog with EPI? A common recommendation is to feed dogs a highly digestible dog food that is relatively low in fat and fiber. However, different types of food seem to work better for different dogs, so you may have to try several diets before finding a good fit. Your veterinarian can help you figure out the best food for your dog. How do you test a dog for EPI? How much does it cost to test for EPI in dogs? Other tests will be necessary to plan appropriate treatment. How can I treat my dog's EPI at home? However, once that balance is found, the management of EPI in dogs at home is fairly straightforward. Dogs with EPI are usually managed at home with pancreatic enzyme supplementation and cobalamin supplementation. Some dogs also require additional vitamin supplements, antibiotics, medications to reduce the secretion of stomach acid, and other treatments to manage their symptoms. References 1. Wiberg ME. Pancreatic acinar atrophy in German shepherd dogs and rough-coated collies. Etiopathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment. A review. Vet Q. PMID: .Breed associations for canine exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. J Vet Intern Med. ACVIM .Westermarck E, Wiberg ME. Effects of diet on clinical signs of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc. Jennifer Coates is an accomplished veterinarian, writer, editor, and consultant with years of experience in the fields of veterinary.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? If the pancreas fails to produce enough of these digestive enzymes, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or EPI, develops. The condition is thought to be hereditary in German Shepherds. Symptoms may include chronic diarrhea; weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite; frequent or greater volume of stool and gas; and coprophagia, a condition which causes an animal to eat its own stool. The enzymes responsible for aiding the digestion of starches, fats, and proteins, are produced by cells in the pancreas known as pancreatic acinar cells. The second most common cause of EPI in dogs is chronic inflammation of the pancreas pancreatitis. If chronic pancreatitis is the cause, it is possible your dog has diabetes, which will also need to be treated. Diagnosis If symptoms of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency are apparent, a number of pancreatic function tests can be done. A serum sample that measures the amount of the chemical trypsinogen TLI released into the blood from the pancreas should reveal problems in the pancreas. A number of other tests may be conducted, including urine and stool analyses. Gastrointestinal infections or inflammations may be among the other problems responsible for symptoms similar to EPI. These enzyme supplements come in a powdered form which may be mixed with food. Also, if your dog is undernourished, vitamin supplements may be necessary. Additional treatment depends on the root cause of EPI. Most causes of EPI, such as pancreatic acinar atrophy see above , are irreversible. This means that life-long therapy and enzyme supplements will be needed. Living and Management Avoid high-fat and high-fiber diets, which are more difficult for digestion. Diarrhea should disappear within one week, and the consistency of stools should normalize soon after. Your dog will also begin to regain lost weight. Your veterinarian will guide you through this as your dog progresses. Prevention Breed animals with pancreatic acinar atrophy is not advised, as the condition can passed along to offspring. Make A Donation. So, join me on this informative journey. EPI is generally a permanent condition, so do not stop treatment once symptoms resolve. You can greatly improve the well-being of a German Shepherd with EPI by following a specialized care plan at home, including a diet with easily digestible protein sources. Avoid giving human-prescribed medication, as it may worsen the condition. The pancreas is responsible for producing essential digestive enzymes that help break down food and absorb nutrients. However, in German Shepherds with EPI, the pancreas fails to produce an adequate amount of these enzymes, leading to digestive issues and malabsorption. So, keep an eye out for any unusual signs. Digestive Issues Keep an eye out for chronic diarrhea in your German Shepherd. The stool may appear greasy and foul-smelling due to undigested fat, a hallmark sign of EPI. If your German Shepherd seems to be losing weight without any apparent reason, it could be a potential indicator of EPI. If you notice a decrease in their energy levels or a lack of interest in usual activities, consider the possibility of EPI. Keep an eye out for signs such as chronic diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, increased appetite without weight gain, and poor coat condition. Tracking their symptoms is an invaluable tool for a correct diagnosis. While precise numbers are challenging to determine, research and estimates shed light on the prevalence of EPI in German Shepherds. While these numbers are not absolute and more recent estimates are not readily available, it is evident that EPI is a significant concern among German Shepherds. Having a new German Shepherd puppy is an exciting and joyful experience. While predicting whether a specific puppy will have Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI is challenging, there are important considerations to keep in mind during the selection process. Genetic Predisposition German Shepherds, like many other dog breeds, can have a genetic predisposition to certain health conditions, including EPI. Ideally, both parents should be free from the condition to minimize the risk in their offspring 2. Age of the Parents The age of the parents can also be a helpful indicator. Breeder Reputation Research the reputation of the breeder and their breeding practices. Be observant of their behavior and look out for symptoms like frequent diarrhea, excessive weight loss despite a healthy appetite, and a lack of energy. Proper Nutrition Regardless of whether your puppy has EPI or not, feeding them a balanced diet is crucial for their overall health. Symptom Awareness Although there are no definitive tests to predict EPI in a puppy, being aware of potential symptoms can help. Watch for signs like frequent diarrhea, weight loss, poor coat condition, and excessive hunger paired with a lack of weight gain. They can conduct tests like fecal elastase or cobalamin levels to accurately diagnose EPI. The condition can be managed effectively with enzyme replacement therapy and dietary adjustments. While predicting EPI in individual puppies remains challenging, we can make informed decisions by prioritizing responsible breeding practices and checking the health history of potential canine companions. Focus on buying a German Shepherd puppy safely from a responsible breeder. Understanding Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI in German Shepherds Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI is a condition that affects the pancreas, an essential organ with dual functions: regulating blood glucose levels through hormone secretion endocrine function secreting enzymes for food digestion exocrine function In German Shepherd dogs, the usual cause of EPI is a condition called pancreatic acinar atrophy PAA , which progressively destroys the acinar cells. These cells are responsible for producing pancreatic juice, which contains vital enzymes and chemicals. Pancreatic juice plays a crucial role in the digestive process, containing bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid and various enzymes that break down food into absorbable molecules. EPI in German Shepherds occurs when the acinar cells fail to produce enough pancreatic juice for digestion, resulting in poor nutrient absorption and potential malnutrition despite a ravenous appetite. When this happens, your dog might start feeling sick. They could lose weight even if they are eating a lot, and their stomach probably feels upset with lots of runny poop. They might also have a greasy coat and feel weak and tired. German Shepherd EPI Warning In severe cases, there can be muscle wasting and weakness, leading to metabolic imbalances and even death if left untreated. They slowly become malnourished, despite eating. Blood Tests: To confirm the diagnosis, your vet will likely perform blood tests to assess the pancreatic enzyme levels and identify any abnormalities. Once this diagnostic process is complete, your veterinarian will discuss the results and give you a diagnosis. While professional veterinary care is essential, there are several ways you can contribute to their treatment at home. Consult a Veterinarian The first and most crucial step is to seek professional guidance. Daily treatment is relatively simple. These enzymes help break down food, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption. Your vet will determine the appropriate dosage and guide you on how to administer the enzyme supplements. These enzymes are available as powder, capsules, and tablets. Focus on easily digestible proteins and carbohydrates while avoiding foods that trigger adverse reactions. Small, Frequent Meals Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can be beneficial. This approach aids digestion and minimizes strain on the pancreas, helping your German Shepherd absorb the necessary nutrients. Routine check-ups with your veterinarian help assess their progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Hydration Ensuring your German Shepherd stays well-hydrated is essential, as EPI can lead to increased water loss through diarrhea. Always provide access to fresh water and monitor their intake. Walking is generally a low-impact and calming activity that can not only reduce stress but also help keep their body in shape as they heal. Provide a calm and comfortable living space to promote their well-being. Patience and Love Living with EPI might be challenging at times, but providing your pup with love, patience, and a supportive environment can make all the difference in their well-being. Remember, you and your loyal companion are in this together. Avoid foods high in fat, as they can exacerbate symptoms. Additionally, feed smaller, more frequent meals to reduce the digestive burden. Consulting a veterinary nutritionist can be valuable in tailoring a balanced and nourishing diet for your EPI-affected German Shepherd. But, with the right approach and information, you can help manage the condition and provide your dog with a fulfilling life. Individualized Treatment Plans While many dogs respond well to the initial treatment, some may require adjustments to their management plan. Each dog is unique, and their response to treatment may vary. Financial Considerations Managing EPI typically involves ongoing medical expenses, as treatment is often lifelong. Pet owners should be prepared for the financial commitment when caring for a German Shepherd with EPI. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups to share experiences, gain insight, and find encouragement during this journey. Keep an eye on their progress at home and stick to regular vet checkups to help make necessary adjustments to their care plan. The Free German Shepherd Stomach Symptom Tracker and Gut Health Guide allows you to record and track symptoms, providing valuable insights for your veterinarian to make informed decisions during check-ups. In: Notes on Canine Internal Medicine pp .She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Chronic pancreatitis Small Intestinal Malabsorption The small intestinal disease is probably the most difficult health issue to differentiate from EPI. Firstly, the symptoms of the two processes are quite similar. Occasionally, small intestinal diseases, like bacterial overgrowth, are a result of EPI. German Shepherds are prone to small intestinal diseases like inflammatory bowel and food sensitivity. Your veterinarian must perform specific tests to differentiate primary small bowel malabsorption and EPI. Often, primary small bowel disease does not produce the huge volumes of feces that EPI does. Also, the appetite may decrease when a disease affects the small intestine, especially if the liver or gallbladder plays a role. Sometimes your vet can perform a lipid test on the feces. However, most distinctions between EPI and small bowel disease occur only after a trypsin-like immunoreactivity analysis. Treatment for EPI usually addresses secondary small bowel malabsorption, especially bacterial overgrowth. Primary small bowel disease requires a diagnosis of the underlying cause and then subsequent treatment. Intestinal Worms Intestinal worms often cause weight loss and diarrhea. You see worms most commonly in young puppies. Your veterinarian can easily rule worms in or out with an examination of a fecal sample. Facilities perform repeated fecal examinations if necessary. Although puppies lose weight and are unthrifty from worms, it will not be as drastic as in EPI. Diarrhea tends to be scant and may have blood in it. It can bring on other signs atypical of EPI like lethargy, dehydration, and collapse. Starvation Although starving German Shepherds look much like EPI dogs, the diagnosis will be obvious from the history. Moreover, if you rescue a German Shepherd from starvation, you will not see voluminous diarrhea because there is no food intake. Chronic Pancreatitis Chronic pancreatitis can be difficult to differentiate from EPI because both diseases have origins in the same organ. Moreover, chronic pancreatitis is sometimes a cause of EPI. However, pancreatitis can also cause vomiting, inappetence, lethargy, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Please note when starting treatments that you must adjust dosages for each individual dog. Once enzymes are at appropriate levels for your dog, you should expect smooth and predictable results of weight gain and the resolution of diarrhea. Treatment for EPI usually involves a three-pronged attack. Rare cases exist where a canid with pancreatic insufficiency secondary to acute pancreatitis eventually regained enzymatic function. EPI often calls for a lifelong commitment to enzyme supplementation. Your veterinarian will prescribe enzymes for your German Shepherd in the form of powder, tablets, or capsules. The powder is by far the most effective formulation. If you subscribe to holistic or all-natural treatments, you can talk to your veterinarian about providing enzymes via fresh frozen pig pancreas. According to Epi4dogs. A fresh-frozen pancreas complements raw diets especially well. Cooking raw pancreas destroys enzymatic action, but uncooked meat can be susceptible to bacterial contamination. Recommended amounts to feed your GSD are three to four ounces of the minced pancreas. Whether the powder you use is prescription or over-the-counter, you will achieve the best results if you add warm water to activate the enzymes. Typical amounts are a half to full teaspoon of enzyme powder for every cup of food. You customize the amount gradually according to how your dog progresses. Eventually, you will decrease doses to use the minimal effective amount to maintain weight. Dogs that have dosages that are too high may experience oral bleeding. Many dogs do best with a raw diet or at least one that is free of grains. You can choose from prescription diets or hand-selected meals from high-quality health-minded brands. Your goal is to moderate protein and limit fats compared to what many premium dog foods offer. You can feed a homemade or raw diet as well. Try to follow the advice of your veterinarian regarding daily vitamin and mineral requirements. Treating EPI Complications The most common secondary effects of EPI that you may have to treat are vitamin B12 deficiency, inflammatory small bowel disease, and bacterial overgrowth. Such pH changes encourage inflammation and further proliferation of nonbeneficial bacteria. Diet modification helps, but your German Shepherd may also benefit from long-term antibiotics that target harmful bacteria. Such antibiotics include Flagyl, or Metronidazole and Oxytetracycline. Dogs can suffer from vitamin E and K deficiencies, but the most critical shortages are typically vitamin B.Moreover, if your German Shepherd does produce the vitamin, they may not be able to absorb it because of inflammation, or bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. Eventually, the frequency may change to every other week and then monthly. Your veterinarian may even be able to train you to give injections at home. A lab test will be able to confirm whether your pet needs vitamin B12 supplementation. Vitamin B12 is vital for your German Shepherd to gain weight, and for maintaining healthy intestinal and brain function. It takes a long time for vitamin b12 to reach critically low levels and it is a challenging task to get it back up once it plummets to such low levels. Your German Shepherd can work, play, and serve as your loyal companion for years to come! Rather than show videos of emaciated German Shepherds, we would like to end on a positive note. Caretakers of rescue dogs must always be vigilant as it is easy to confuse exocrine pancreatic insufficiency with starvation when a dog first comes to a shelter. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency also called EPI is a medical condition in which the pancreas of the affected German Shepherd Dog GSD stops producing enough digestive enzymes to digest food normally in its small intestine. EPI in the GSD can result from primary pancreatic disease or several other diseases that interfere with the correct production of enzymes by the pancreas or of activation of the enzymes in the intestine. What is the pancreas and EPI? And what does this have to do with my own personal German Shepherd? Without adequate production of these particular enzymes your GSD cannot digest its food properly either. Keep in mind that Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency can be potentially life threatening, especially in its acute form. However, it often responds well to ongoing and daily treatments when diagnosed and treated with the proper drugs. Typically, the exocrine functions of the pancreas can malfunction in one of two ways. This does require immediate veterinary attention. This is indeed a big tell. No matter how much the dog eats, it will be hungry soon after and will soon begin to lose weight. Typically, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in the GSD is presented in young adult dogs between 1 to 5 years of age. The diagnosis of EPI needs to be confirmed by use of laboratory tests. Diarrhea and foul smelling feces due to high fat content results and because all the food ingredients are not being digested completely the German Shepherd will quickly become malnourished. EPI is caused by the pancreas not producing enough digestive enzymes, which can lead to malnourished and other health problems. EPI is a common health issue in German Shepherds, so If your dog has symptoms of EPI, it is important to get him diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. Thankfully, EPI can be successfully managed with proper care. Her website, epi4dogs. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI is a condition found in dogs where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes to break down food. The digestive enzymes include amylase to digest starch, protease to digest proteins, and lipase to digest fats. Weight loss, which can be extreme Excessive eating Eating everything and anything even nonfood items Inability to gain weight Rumbling sounds coming from the digestive tract Passing gas, which is often smelly Frequent diarrhea Light-colored stool yellow or gray Fatty looking stool Dull and sometimes greasy coat How Is EPI Diagnosed in dogs? Fortunately, checking for EPI in your dog is not all that difficult. If you and your vet suspect EPI is the culprit, your vet will request a stool sample from your dog and perform blood work. As we learned from Olisea in our podcast, treatment involves the whole dog, and it may take a bit of trial and error to get it right, but it is doable. Treatment includes diet changes to include: Highly digestible, low-fat foods with prescribed pancreatic enzymes mixed in with every meal. Fortunately, many dogs respond well to treatment and can live long, happy lives. Also, be sure to check out the website www. This part was inadvertently cut off and not fully explained in the podcast.
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Our article on How To Choose A Responsible Breeder has tons of more tips on this topic, so make sure you check it out. They specialize in breeding Medium, Mini, and Micro Mini Australian Labradoodle puppies in a variety of beautiful coat colors, including chocolate, red-apricot, caramel, and phantom patterns. In addition to breeding Labradoodle pups, they also raise purebred Golden Retrievers. At Moonlit Acres, their main focus is on breeding healthy and happy puppies with wonderful temperaments. In fact, many of their puppies have gone on to become registered service dogs for families and individuals who need that special canine support only Doods can provide. All of their puppies are born and raised in their very own home so that they all receive round-the-clock care and nurture that they deserve. Their puppies are all well-socialized with young children, adults, and also with other dogs. They start potty training at 3 weeks of age, crate training at 4 weeks of age, and also utilize the Early Neurological Stimulation ENS training. Moreover, they teach their puppies basic commands and even take them on car rides! What Makes This Breeder Unique? Waitlist: Yes.
Despite their ancestry, English Bulldogs are not ferocious anymore but laid back and affectionate. Bulldogs are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. They are medium-sized dogs with low-hanging, thick bodies. They are perfect for inexperienced owners due to their relaxed personality, moderate exercise needs, and easy grooming. Of course, there are some negatives to owning English Bulldogs, like health problems caused by their flat muzzle and their unusual body shape. This is the English Bulldog price range for a puppy from a small-scale but reputable breeder. Gasping at these numbers is an appropriate reaction, but there are multiple reasons why Bulldog puppies are so expensive. We will cover the high costs of breeding later, but the price of English Bulldogs also depends on market laws — the popularity of the breed drives the price up. Four British Bulldog puppies on a run While the adorable Bulldog is low-maintenance in terms of grooming and exercise, various health problems can make them expensive to care for. You should also avoid buying puppies from pet shops since they usually come from puppy mills. Buying a puppy directly from a reputable breeder is the best way to go. Ethical breeders provide health screenings for their puppies and answer all your questions regarding their parents, breeding, and living conditions. Bulldogs from reputable breeders cost more due to high breeding expenses. Other breeding costs include genetic testing, vet bills, and preparation expenses. On the other hand, when you adopt from a Bulldog rescue, the dog is usually spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations. Age: Caring for a newborn Bulldogs takes time, money, and energy. Older puppies or adolescent Bulldogs will cost less than newborns. Gender: The price for female English Bulldogs might be slightly higher in some cases, but the difference is usually negligible. Coat Color: Coat color can seriously affect the price of the dog because some colors and patterns are pretty rare. Standard coat colors include white, fawn, red, brindle, and their combinations. Bulldogs with these colors and patterns fall within the average range price. Meanwhile, rarer colors and patterns are more expensive. The newest colors, like merle or lilac, are even more costly. These numbers are based on the essentials like supplies, food, grooming costs, medical expenses, training costs, with microchip and license included. Replacement costs of these types of goodies will range based on how quickly your Bulldog destroys their current supply. You can also order subscription packs from many reputable companies that give your dog new exploratory items every month. Since these dogs are at risk for many health complications, save as much as you can—erring on the side of caution. The best time for obedience lessons is between 6 months to a year, but every trainer varies in preference. Depending on the treatment, you could spend thousands of dollars in one swoop. Pet sitting is more personalized care but can rack up extra fees. If you want to save as much as possible while still giving your Bulldog the care they need, look at these money-saving tips. They mainly offer spay and neuter surgeries at reduced costs, but they can also provide basic care. You can make anything from dog toys to intricate beds. Many things you can make may not even require going to the store for materials—you can simply make them from existing items at home. Auto-Ship Dog Food If you buy your dog food from certain websites, many companies offer discounted prices if you place an automatic, recurring order. Of course, you can always save on English Bulldog costs by using low-cost services and making tons of at-home projects and toys for your pooch. Less - The English Bulldog is a wide, medium-sized, compact dog with short legs. The body and head are massive with extra skin on both the skull and forehead falling in folds. The cheeks extend to the sides of the eyes. The muzzle is wide, short and pug with a broad, deep stop. The black nose is broad with large nostrils. The dark eyes are deep set. The rose ears are small, thin and set high on the head. The jaws are massive, very broad, and square with hanging upper lips. The teeth should have an under bite. The tail is either straight or screwed and carried low. The short, flat coat is straight, smooth and glossy. Coat colors include red brindle and other shades of brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow, piebald, pale yellow or washed-out red or white or a combination of these colors. Despite its "sourmug," the bulldog is jovial, comical and amiable, among the most docile and mellow of dogs. It is willing to please, although it retains a stubborn streak. It is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. These dogs were bred for sheer fighting capacity, and they were famed for latching onto their prey with an iron jaw which they refused to release—they could even suffocate opponents this way. English Bulldogs are simultaneously a symbol of British tenacity and an immensely popular American pet.
Today, that pet is the Boxer Mastiff mix, a beautiful guard dog that has a playful personality. Many years ago, the Boxer and English Mastiff were bred as protectors or guardians. Nowadays, that has changed. Yes, some puppies still have the same instinct. And while it seems fun while they are small, the potential of pounds dog pulling on a leash or acting aggressively is terrifying. But do not worry, that is not the case. Meet The Breed Do you want a large dog full of character? Well then, we have to introduce you to the Boxmas. The appearance of this Boxer mix is almost as sweet as its name. The offspring is the result of two large dogs who have protective instincts. These instincts might kick into action if the dog feels the family is in danger. Yet, with early training and plenty of socialization, things can be changed. We have to note that the Boxmas puppy is a relatively new breed. We do not know as much, and there is no breed standard by The American Kennel Club. But we do have plenty of information that will help you determine whether this puppy is the right for your household or not. Meet The Parents Whenever you talk about a mixed breed, you have to begin with the two parents. Given that there is no breed standard for hybrid dog breeds, the personality and features of the parents can help you understand your future pet. Boxer The Boxer is one of the funniest dogs around. Many years ago, this canine was a guardian dog. And while it still has some instincts, domestication has turned the Boxer into an amazing and loving pet. How much do you know about the Boxer? In a way, they are not aware of their big size They have a fun-loving and goofy personality, making them a joy to be around Mastiff The English Mastiff breed is a large dog famous for its strength, courage, and loyalty. Many call it a gentle giant because of its loving personality and big size. They make an excellent choice for families and households that want a loyal and protective dog. Their calm demeanor, courage, and loyalty are praised by dog lovers. With that in mind, here are some common personality traits of the English dog breed. The Boxmas puppy is a family-friendly pup with a bit of a stubborn streak. Given that their parent breeds are large, this mixed puppy is usually on the larger side. It would be nice if you have a bit of space for your puppy to stretch out and roam. When standing, they can grow up to 30 inches, and their paws look huge when the puppy is born. A muscular and stocky dog, the Boxmas weighs between 70 and pounds. They are relatively new on the scene, so breeders have not had enough time to go over all the physical characteristics. Usually, though, they take up on the Mastiff frame and the Boxer face. Their coat is short and dense, usually in colors like brown, black, and brindle. There might be streaks of white across the body. Despite its short coat, the Mastiff Boxer mix is a heavy shedder, but more on that later on. Temperament One of the big misconceptions about the English Mastiff and Boxer mix is that they are dangerous. But that is absolutely not true. They are not aggressive, despite the fact their parents were historically bred for fighting and security purposes. Instead, this Boxer mix exhibits deep affection and love for people, children, and even other animals. They love having fun and endless entertainment with their owner. Energetic and fun-loving, this puppy is known to be playful and dopey. You can say they are quite the performers. Having one in your home will provide hours of endless entertainment for the entire family. When this dog is not playing, he is on guard duty. They are not overly barky but will alert the owners when they think a danger looms. Remember, this mixed puppy is a guard dog. Now, you might think a protective dog is not good with children. But quite the opposite. This gentle giant has protective, yet patient nature, making it a great addition to a household with children. Training Training can be a bit challenging with this canine. Socialization is also important, even at an early age. It can help prevent guarding and protective instincts to a point they are tolerable. You do not want a pound dog barking at everything that moves, right? You should schedule interactions with humans and animals outside of your household. Use positive reinforcement to reward good and calm behavior. This will help your puppy understand that strangers are not enemies per se. You also want to put effort into preventing your dog from becoming over-protective of the household. Yes, your dog can be attached to family members. But over-protectiveness and hostility will make it difficult for your dog to live in urban areas. This hybrid dog is intelligent, yet stubborn at times. What you can use to your advantage is the fact they constantly seek praise from their owners. It makes the canine relatively easy to train. Yet, keep the session short and fun. These dogs tend to get bored and distracted easily. When you look at the parent breeds, one is lean, and the other is muscular. Mastiffs have trouble maintaining their weight and walking for a long time. Boxer dogs, on the other hand, are quite athletic. So, your Boxmas will fall somewhere in the middle. Generally speaking, your dog needs between 30 and 45 minutes of physical exercise per day. And then some mental stimulation to keep its brain in check. Health Ask owners of large dogs like Mastiffs, and they will tell you these puppies do not live a long life. The extra weight puts stress on the body. But the good news is that crossing breeds helps eliminate certain health issues and risks. Generally speaking, a Boxer Mastiff mix lives between 10 and 13 years. There are still some health complications that you have to pay attention to. For starters, because it mostly inherits the Boxer face, this puppy can also be brachycephalic and suffer from breathing issues. Another common problem is hip dysplasia, due to the massive weight of the large-sized dog. Last, but not least, is gastric torsion. Food dispensers can help with quick eating and portion control. Grooming Many people think that dogs with short coats do not shed much. But that is just not true. In this case, we have a heavy shedder. And there is a reason for that. While they have a short coat, they have a dense coat. Make sure to brush your pooch once per week to remove dead hair. Bathe your puppy once every 4 to 6 months. They are heavy shedders, despite their short coat They drool, same as their Mastiff and Boxer parent breed These dogs have a massive size and need an owner who can handle it Why Should You Get One? Their calm, yet protective nature, makes them excellent pets for children They do not need much exercise compared to some more athletic large dogs Relatively easy to train because of their tendency to seek praise from their owner Facebook. Finding reputable breeders that produce top-quality Boxer Mastiff mix puppies can be quite difficult. There are places where you can find Boxer Mastiff puppies for sale, and I am not talking about pet stores or puppy mills! These are reputable places that advertise Boxer Mastiff puppies. Here are some of the places where you can find Boxer Mastiff puppies for sale: Petango — This online pet database lists thousands of large-size hybrid dogs, including Boxer Mastiff mixes. You will also find other information about the listed mixes, such as their location, gender, coat color, and type of mix, on their website. PuppySpot — With over hundreds of purebred and designer dog breeds, you can surely find a Boxer Mastiff mix on this site. This online platform also comprehensively details the backgrounds of the puppies on its list. Another option is adopting from rescue and local animal shelters. Adopting is a practical and noble way of acquiring and owning a Boxer Mastiff mix. They take in, treat, feed, and train abandoned Boxers and Boxer mixes until they are ready for adoption. Mastiffs to Mutts Rescue MTM — This animal shelter dedicates itself to rescuing surrendered and abandoned Mastiff breeds and other giant breed dogs and mixes. Their rescue efforts extend throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. You should contact them as they might have a Boxer Mastiff mix in their care. If you are lucky, you might find a Boxer Mastiff ready for adoption in this rescue. Aside from the rescues mentioned above, you can also check out our Boxer rescue directory that lists local shelters that take in Boxer mixes, including the Boxmas mix. You should also review our ultimate dog adoption guide , which could help you ace your dog adoption application. This dog has specific demands and needs that should be met. There are also some advantages and disadvantages to owning one of these dogs. Here are some of the pros of owning a Boxer Mastiff mix: Unique appearance: There is no denying that Boxer Mastiff mixes have cool and unique appearances. Their overall looks resemble the elegant phenotypic features of the Boxer breed and the colossal size of the English Mastiff. Good guard dog: The Boxer Mastiff mix has innate guarding abilities. It is calm and gentle but will not hesitate to protect its family. Its sheer size could also easily intimidate intruders. Highly intelligent dogs: This giant mixed breed is easy to train because of its natural intelligence. They are docile, and they love to please their owners. They only need weekly brushing and monthly bathing to keep them fresh and clean. Meanwhile, here are some of the cons of owning Boxer Mastiff mixes: Not recommended for families with toddlers: Because of their large body builds, Boxer Mastiff can unintentionally knock off toddlers, which can cause accidents and injuries. Highly protective: Since both the Mastiff and Boxer are guard dogs, the Boxmas dog can become too protective of its family. Hard to predict its growth and size: There is no established guide for monitoring the growth of the Mastiff Boxer mix. Hence, its final weight and size are difficult to predict. Highly active: Boxer Mastiffs are energetic dogs so they require regular exercise and activities. This means that if you are a busy person, this hybrid might not be the perfect dog for you. These are just some of the pros and cons of owning a Boxer Mastiff mix. You can use this list in deciding whether this designer dog is worth having as a pet. Both the Boxer and the Mastiff breeds were historically used as protectors or guardians. That means Boxer puppies are highly likely to inherit this instinct to protect and guard their families. This will help them grow into well-rounded and obedient adult dogs. That means shorter walks, no jumping from heights, and feeding a specific dog food designed for larger breeds. They excelled as cattle dogs, watchdogs, police dogs, and guide dogs, as well as serving as war dogs in both world wars. Mastiff type breeds have been around for centuries. Luckily, U. Boxmas dogs are extremely protective of their families Thanks to the fact that both the Mastiff and the Boxer have been bred to instinctively protect their families, Boxmas puppies are highly likely to inherit this same trait. Without these training sessions, their protective instinct can soon turn into aggression. On the flip side, when it comes to mixed breeds, it can be harder to predict particular characteristics of these hybrids in terms of size, appearance, and temperament. This gives them a nice balance between activity and rest. While these dogs are sweet and gentle around their families, their protective natures mean they always want to make sure their owners are safe. The Boxer Mastiff cross is intelligent and will enjoy regular training sessions to keep them mentally as well as physically exercised. Their kind and loving nature make them suitable for life with children, but their large size and sometimes excitable nature means they can sometimes knock small children over! You will need to do a fair amount of training to make sure that family friends are accepted into your home with the minimum of fuss. While you might feel confident around your large-breed Boxmas, bear in mind that their size and stature can make them look intimidating to visitors. Make sure your Boxmas knows not to jump on people. Boxers can sometimes tend to become nervous around other dogs of the same sex. Always make sure to introduce new pets to each other slowly and in a controlled environment. Keep the initial meetings short and sweet, and allow each pet somewhere safe they can retreat to if they feel the need. Things to Know When Owning a Boxmas: Deciding to add a Boxmas to your family is a big decision and requires both time and money. Before you make your mind up for sure, here are a few more things you should know about this breed first. This will have the correct levels of calcium and phosphorous to ensure that their bones grow correctly. It will also have a lower percentage of protein, fat, and calories than foods designed for smaller breed puppies. Your puppy is likely to inherit the work ethic and intelligence of both parent breeds. Boredom sometimes leads to destructive habits, which none of us want to face! Their natural propensity to guard can easily roll over into aggression if not managed properly. Puppy training classes are an excellent way to socialize your puppy while having a professional trainer on hand to help with any specific goals you may have. Praise and positive reinforcement are an excellent tool for Boxmas owners. Raised voices during training can worry a Mastiff and may cause them to become disengaged. We reviewed the best puppy training treats: check out our top picks here! A weekly brush should be enough to keep them looking healthy. When they shed, which will be twice a year, you can up your grooming sessions to help remove any dead hair. If your Boxmas puppy inherits a more Mastiff-shaped head from one of their parents, then be prepared for the fact that you might need to deal with drool! Mastiffs are notorious droolers, often choosing to stand close to you while they do so! You can also check their nails at the same time, but these should only need trimming once a month or so. Luckily in the case of the Boxmas, this is also true. Minor Conditions. Fawn, brindle, black, brown or white. Temperament: Loving, affectionate, active, energetic, playful and strong-willed. Most Suitable For: Families with or without children or single individuals — experienced owners will find this dog easier to handle than inexperienced ones. This means a longer snout, black nose and ears that droop backwards. The Boxer Mastiff will mostly likely have smaller eyes, with a longer, stocky, muscular body with a medium-length tail. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. While not definitive, we can estimate the Boxer Mastiff mix was first bred around this timeframe. A deeper dive into both parent breeds should give us some idea of where the Boxer Mastiff mix comes from. Boxers were later used as cattle-herding dogs in large slaughterhouses and hunting companions for European hunters. It is only in the last century or so that they became less working dogs and more companion dogs. Given their size and strength, Boxers are great family dogs or are good dogs for single individuals — providing that they can handle their size and strength. How Did Boxers Come About? Only in the last century or so have Boxers become popular companions and family pets. Though, in the United States, the popularity of crossbred dogs exploded in the s and s. Mastiff History The history of the Mastiff stretches back almost 2, years — and there are even records of the breed stretching back to Europe and Asia that predates their English lineage. The Romans also owned Mastiff dogs that were used as fighting dogs in their fighting arenas. Beyond Rome, Mastiffs occupied the role of guardian dogs of English royalty and nobility for centuries and were also used as working dogs by the English gentry. Only in the last century have they become companion pets. Despite their long and storied British heritage, the Mastiff is reasonably popular in the US as well. Given their size and weight, Mastiffs are great dogs for those who can handle them. How Did Mastiffs Come About? Mastiffs have a history that stretches back at least 2, years to the fighting pens of Ancient Rome. They were originally used as fighting dogs by Roman soldiers to test gladiators. It is only in recent centuries that the Mastiff has been used as a companion-only pet in the West. What is the Temperament of the Boxer Mastiff Mix? They are very protective and strong-willed. Given their energetic nature, they might not be the best fit for those looking for a more aloof, easier-going dog. Are Boxer Mastiff Mixes Friendly? Yes, Boxer Mastiff mixes are very friendly dogs, owing much of that friendliness to their Boxer genetics. Both sides of the Boxer Mastiff genetics have a history of command-following in one way or another, so you should expect your Boxer Mastiff to be a fairly easy dog to train if a little stubborn at times. The Boxer Mastiff usually weigh between 70 and pounds. The Boxer Mastiff will usually stand between 23 and 36 inches tall. Does a Boxer Mastiff Mix Shed? However, they are not hypoallergenic dogs either, so they will require some brushing. The Boxer Mastiff likes nothing better than to be exercised! While not necessarily on the same energy levels as, say, a Husky, the Boxer Mastiff will require roughly an hour of exercise every day, and preferably be allowed to run freely in an off-leash area during the weekends. Failure to properly exercise your dog can lead to boredom and related health issues, including obesity, diabetes and others. We can assume the life expectancy of the Boxer Mastiff mix is anywhere between years. Like with any dog, there are a number of factors that will determine the number of years your specific Boxer Mastiff mix lives like diet and exercise. They require regular exercise through daily walks or playtime with an interactive toy like a KONG to burn off pent-up energy and stay mentally stimulated. Due to their larger size, Boxer Mastiff Mixes tend not to be the best apartment dogs. They tend to be very active and energetic, and they need plenty of daily exercise and room to move around. They love to play with their human family members, but because of their size and strength, they should always be supervised around children. Boxer Mastiff Mix dogs are not recommended for homes with very small children , but older children who understand how to respectfully interact with dogs may enjoy having one of these hybrids as a companion. Boxer Mastiffs make good watchdogs and will alert their owners if someone is approaching the house or yard. They do have a tendency to bark at times, which can be annoying for neighbors. Is the Boxer Mastiff Mix the right dog for you? Crossbred dogs like the Boxer Mastiff Mix are sometimes referred to as hybrid dogs, mixed breed dogs, or designer dogs. These terms refer to dogs that have been bred from two different purebred breeds with the goal of producing puppies that exhibit the best traits of both parents. And this is where the controversy comes in. Early generation crossbreed dogs are generally not as predictable as their purebred parents by way of health, temperament, and appearance. This means that they could be more like one parent breed over the other, or they could be a perfect mix of both. Hybrid vigor is a term used to describe the theory in which crossbred dogs are potentially healthier and stronger than purebred dogs. This is a theory that was popularized in the 19th century by British biologist Sir Francis Galton. He believed that by crossing two different breeds of animal, you could get a hybrid that was stronger and healthier than either parent breed. The idea is that when you breed closely related dogs like purebreds with similar traits and genetic histories, they have a higher chance of producing offspring that could wind up inheriting similar genes for undesirable traits like disease. The result could mean a healthier offspring with fewer health problems than either parent breed would have produced on its own. While the theory of hybrid vigor is a promising one, it is quite controversial and not accepted by everyone. If you are considering a Boxer Mastiff Mix, you should be aware that he could inherit any of the same genetic traits as his purebred parents. This could include traits like temperament, health, and appearance. These dogs are a cross between the purebred Mastiff and the purebred Boxer. The Boxer Mastiff Mix is a relatively new crossbreed, with many people wondering where it came from and how long it has been on the scene. The Boxer Mastiff mix is a combination of two very popular breeds: the Boxer and the Mastiff. As we discussed above, if you are considering a Boxer Mastiff Mix to call your own, you should closely consider the traits of the Boxer and the Mastiff as well. The Boxer is an intelligent and energetic dog with a strong prey drive, which means training and socialization at an early age are going to be very important to ensuring this dog is well-rounded and well-behaved. The Boxer is a very loyal, protective breed that thrives on human companionship. They are great family dogs as long as they receive plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Although Boxers are friendly and social, they do not always do well with small children because they can knock them over when playing or roughhousing. This breed may also be impatient with youngsters who are too rough or persistent. For this reason, a Boxer and a Boxer Mastiff Mix is best for families with older children who understand how to treat dogs appropriately. Boxers are not known for being overly friendly towards other dogs or cats unless they are raised together from puppyhood, but even then there may be issues if you have multiple pets in your home such as a cat and dog. It has an extremely affectionate nature and loves nothing more than to be around its family. Mastiff dogs tend to have a docile temperament and are good with children when properly raised, trained, and socialized. They are also protective of their owners and will be wary of strangers or those they find suspicious. There are different types of Mastiff dogs available, but they all have a similar origin. Mastiff dogs were specifically bred for hunting wild boar and other large game. They were also used as guard dogs, since they were so large and intimidating. The first mastiff was known as the Alaunt, which was developed in England during the 14th century. The Alaunt was then crossed with another breed called the Bloodhound to produce a dog that was even larger in size. The result of these two crosses was called the English Bulldog which is not related to the modern American bulldog. Later on, more crosses were made between bulldogs and mastiffs until they reached their current form. So, what can you expect if you combine the traits of the modern-day Mastiff and the Boxer? Keep reading to find out. When properly raised, trained, and socialized, Boxer Mastiff Mix dogs can do well with children. You should always supervise your Boxer Mastiff mix around smaller children as well to ensure everyone is getting along safely and happily. We also suggest teaching children the basics of canine body language and how to properly pet and handle their dog. Remind children that it is not safe or respectful to tease, poke, sit on, ride on, or even hug a Boxer Mastiff Mix dog. This will help prevent any future behavioral issues from occurring as they become more confident around others in general. And this brings us to the importance of proper training and socialization. Keep reading. Early socialization and training are important for any dog, but especially for large breed dogs with potential guarding instincts like the Boxer Mastiff Mix. Boxer Mastiffs are very social dogs and need lots of attention from their owners. Although Boxer Mastiff mix dogs are not known for being aggressive or territorial, they do have strong protective instincts which can make them wary around strangers. They tend to be more comfortable around people they know and trust. Training classes are usually offered at local pet stores, but you can also find quality trainers in your area with some simple research. Behavioral classes can help get your puppy off to a good start and help you learn how to train them properly. When you are training your Boxer Mastiff Mix, be sure you are using positive reinforcement training techniques as opposed to aversive training techniques like fear or scolding. Positive reinforcement training is based on operant conditioning, which uses rewards to shape behavior in dogs. The most common methods of positive reinforcement include treats, praise, clicker training, patience, and consistency. Clicker training is another effective method you can use when it comes to positive reinforcement training. This type of training involves using a small handheld clicker along with treats to train your dog when he or she does something right. We have listed a clicker training product below we would recommend when it comes to training your dog using this method. This kit includes a clicker, a training guide, and a pouch you can use as a poop dispenser on walks or a treat holding pouch. We also like that the dog training guide has easy-to-follow instructions on how to teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay and come. The training guide also provides tips on how to make the most out of your time spent with your dog by teaching him tricks that will make him more obedient and fun to be around! Without proper exercise and mental stimulation, the Boxer Mastiff can develop health issues. Boxer Mastiffs are athletic dogs who love to run, jump and play. With that being said, you need to be careful not to over exercise this hybrid because it could lead to injury. The appropriate exercise for a Boxer Mastiff Mix includes: Taking him on daily walks that are 45 minutes to an hour long Playing fetch or tug of war with him in the backyard or at the park. About an hour or so of exercise each day will suffice, and the most important thing is that you stay consistent. Routine exercise for your Boxer Mastiff Mix can help reduce the risk of certain injuries later in life by ensuring he has healthy bones, joints, and muscles. When you are walking your Boxer Mastiff Mix outside, be sure you invest in a quality dog harness. Although the Boxer Mastiff Mix is a large breed dog, we recommend against choke chains or prong collars. Instead, invest in front clip no-pull dog harnesses like the one listed below. Unlike other harnesses, this harness has no metal parts. The harness comes in different sizes and colors so you can find the right one for your unique dog and preference. Mental stimulation can come in many forms for dogs, and you can combine mental stimulation with exercise to help your pup stay both happy and healthy. For example, you can take your dog on walks with you and let him explore new places while you take in the sights. You could also play games with your dog! Most dogs love playing catch and Frisbee, but there are lots of other options out there too. Try hiding treats around the house or in different rooms so your dog has to work for his food! Hide his toys around the house as well and then give him a treat when he finds them — this game can help your dog learn to use his sense of smell and find things on his own! You can also invest in puzzle toys that challenge your dog, as well as KONGS or other chew toys that help keep your dog busy and occupied while you are away. This is because the Boxer Mastiff Mix has a short coat that sheds moderately. In addition, with regular brushing, you should be able to keep the undercoat from becoming too matted. The Boxer Mastiff Mix needs to be brushed regularly to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny. You can brush them with a slicker brush or a pin brush to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout their coat. The Boxer Mastiff Mix should also be bathed occasionally with a shampoo specified for canine use. Avoid overbathing your Boxer Mastiff Mix, as this can lead to skin issues down the road. It is made by a trusted brand, and it is well-reviewed by many pet owners. The product contains natural ingredients like aloe vera and oatmeal that help to soothe skin inflammation and itching. Dental care is another important aspect of grooming when it comes to the Boxer Mastiff Mix. Like all dogs, the Boxer Mastiff mix should have his teeth brushed daily with an approved pet toothpaste and toothbrush. This will help prevent tartar buildup on his teeth, which can lead to oral infections or gum disease, as well as bad breath and tooth decay. Last, be sure to check your Boxer Mastiff Mix dogs ears often and keep them free of waxy buildup, moisture, or debris. These dogs do have long, floppy ears, which can make them more susceptible to ear infections. He could also be prone to suffering from any of the same genetic health issues of both the purebred Boxer or the purebred Mastiff. The lifespan of this mixed breed depends on many factors including his size and overall health. However, there are some general guidelines that owners can follow when deciding how long their dogs may live. On average, Boxer Mastiff Mix dogs tend to live between 6 to 10 years, though they can sometimes live longer when properly cared for and when fed an appropriate diet. Rescue Me! Grooming Your Mastiff Mixed With Boxer Boxer Mastiffs are easy to groom overall but generally shed in large amounts, which is why you should schedule days that you thoroughly brush their fur. Daily brushing is essential even for your short hair because it eliminates and lessens dirt accumulation as well as hair accumulation in the house. Ear and teeth hygiene should be an everyday priority to avoid dirt and bacterial accumulation in the ears and cavities or tartar, which could lead to infections in the future. Some of the conditions to take note of are: Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic disease wherein there is an abnormal formation of the hip socket, which causes immense pain for the dog. If left untreated may cause crippling and painful arthritis of the joints. Due to excessive gastric content, the stomach of the dog becomes overstretched. It may cause severe pain when moving. Ectropion: This condition is more common in Mastiffs. The lower eyelids appear droopy due to an abnormality and may result in conjunctivitis or keratitis. Make sure you make arrangements with members of the family to ensure an adequately measured amount of food for your puppy. Choose gifts that have low calories instead, so that obesity is avoidable. The best choice of food would be those that are rich in protein for proper muscle building and repairing. Protein can be obtained through dog food alone, or you could ask your local vet for additional snacks and supplements. You can find protein in meat such as chicken, lamb, fish, and beef. Meat meals are concentrated forms sans the moisture but offer the same amount of protein as well. Fats are essential for eye and brain development because of the rich sources of Omega-3 Fatty acids. Chicken meat and fish oil are excellent sources. Avoid giving your Boxmas foods rich in common allergens such as corn, soy, dairy, wheat, and potatoes. Also refrain from giving any food coloring, as these may compromise the immune system. Never give them table food because it might cause different allergic reactions ranging from skin allergies to difficulty in breathing. To give your Boxer crossed with Mastiff better nutrition, check the following high quality and nutrient-packed dog food available on the market: Fromm Large Breed Puppy Gold Formula: This is a brand that ensures there are no allergens or irritants included. Specially formulated for puppies who are known to grow over fifty pounds, protein and fat levels are moderately incorporated. DHA-rich salmon oil is a bonus for brain and eye development. There are additional vitamins and antioxidants as well as a grain-free formula. Protein and fat levels are lower compared to different brands in the market but still packed with needed nutrients and vitamins to ensure proper growth and development. Royal Canin Boxer Adult Dry Food: This product boasts of high-quality proteins and nutrients, as well as the incorporation of L-carnitine. This combination helps your Mastiff mixed with Boxer maintain its overall built, burn fat efficiently, and avoid obesity. Orijen Puppy Large: The ingredients are fresh and high in protein. It consists of chicken and turkey, as well as fish. Your dog may be big or small, but you need to keep it happy and healthy all the time. Never give them the worst dry dog food that is low in nutrients and filled with by-products, and opt for best dry dog food instead. For the littlest of munchkins, check out our list of best puppy food brands , and for gray-coated, wise grandpa-doggos, opt only for the best senior dry dog food. Your stunning mixed heartthrob carries the genes of their super-gorgeous and incredibly different parents. But that means that you are in luck as you can offer your little charmer both the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food. Let them have a final say in which kibble they nibble. In line with the diet, also schedule a daily exercise regimen for your Boxmas. They are highly energetic and exuberant by nature, which means they require at least an hour of intense activities and exercises. This program includes running, walking, playing fetch, obedience exercises, and jogging. Never contain your Boxer crossed with Mastiff in a small space such as apartments or condos. Fulfill their need to stay fit by choosing a home that has adequate running space if you plan to adopt a Boxmas. Another option is to take trips to the park or jog around the neighborhood. If left idle for too long, they can be agitated or easily distracted and tend to destroy or chew on things out of frustration. Here are some toys to help exercise your Boxmas: OxGord BazooK-9 Tennis Ball Launcher Gun: Since your hybrid is energetic and loves running, this tennis ball launcher is a perfect toy when visiting parks or playing in the backyard. Invest in this versatile product so that it also saves you energy from having to throw the ball. It prevents the potential risk for periodontal disease. KONG Wubba Dog Toy: Made of nylon and has two balls inside one chewable and one squeaky , the Wubba dog toy will be a Boxmas favorite because of its durability and appearance. There is no need to continually throw away and replace toys when you purchase this product. Your hybrid will engage in chewing and decrease any risks of periodontal diseases as well. It can be a challenge for most owners because of the intelligence plus energetic combo, but with patience and determination, your hybrid will follow proper orders in no time. Boxers are easy to lead and train. This trait will save you a lot of time and effort. Make sure to familiarize yourself and your pup with play biting and attacking an intruder or stranger. If you can, plan for the whole week instead. It can be a challenge to keep their attention focused on the training, but with perseverance and patience, everything will eventually pay off. Encourage positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement will always be one of the best and most endorsed strategies to train a dog because it taps into the mental aspect. Your hybrid will automatically think that the specific actions you want your dog to do will earn a treat. Apply this in all tricks and strategies you wish to impart. Another thing to remember is always to have a big space for them to move around when around children to avoid any unwanted accidents. Your hybrid is a large dog and might be prone to crashes if confined in a small space. You can renovate your backyard and put obstacles or toys, or you may visit the park and play with other dogs. But in general, Boxer Mastiffs are very loyal, fun, active, and protective. The temperament from both parent breeds ensures that there is no aggressiveness or violence along with, of course, proper training. Older members of the family can pitch in and help training the big fellow, and this also allows more exposure to different people. This plan will avoid the unwanted one-owner type of dog in the future, as well as agitation and idleness. As an owner, it is your responsibility to ensure a healthy diet, proper living space, frequent trips to the vet, and specific training to help your hybrid live the best years of its life. Typically, Boxers are lively and playful dogs that make great companions for families with children. They are also known for being intelligent and loyal, which makes them excellent guard dogs. The Mastiff, on the other hand, is a large and powerful dog that was originally bred in England. Mastiffs are gentle giants that are fiercely loyal to their families. However, they can also be wary of strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. When you mix these two breeds together, you get the Boxer Mastiff mix — a dog that combines the best of both worlds. The Boxmas is an energetic and affectionate dog that is perfect for those who want an ideal family pet. The average height of a Boxmas is 24 to 27 inches, and they typically weigh between 70 and pounds. These dogs have short, dense fur that is usually black, brown, or brindle in color. Boxmas Temperament The Boxmas is a cross between two very different breeds of dogs, the Boxer and the Mastiff. As a result, they can inherit a wide range of temperament traits from their parents. Some Boxmas dogs are outgoing and friendly, while others may be more reserved. Some are laid back and easygoing, while others have a higher energy level. However, all Boxmas dogs share a few key temperament traits. They are intelligent and trainable dogs who bond closely with their families. With proper socialization, they can get along well with other pets and children. Boxmas Exercise Needs The Boxmas is a high-energy dog that needs plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. These dogs need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day, and they thrived best when given ample opportunities to run and play. The following exercise activities are some great options to consider: Fetch — This helps your dog to use up some of its energy, as well as giving them some mental stimulation. Tug-of-war — This is a great way to play with your Boxmas and build up their muscles. Running — Take your dog for a run or jog around the block to help them get its daily exercise. Long walks — A daily walk is a great way to bond with your dog and give them the exercise they need. Hiking — If you live near trails or woods, take your Boxmas on a hike for a fun and different way to exercise. Mental Stimulation In addition to physical exercise, the Boxmas also needs plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. These dogs are intelligent and need to be given some challenging tasks to keep them occupied. Some great ideas for mentally stimulating your Boxmas include: Food puzzles Give your dog a food puzzle toy to help them use their brain power to figure out how to get the treats inside. Specialist Training Enroll your dog in an obedience or agility class to help them learn new tricks and stay mentally sharp. Boxmas Training Needs The Boxmas is a smart dog that is easy to train. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and petting. These dogs need to be given consistent training from an early age to prevent them from becoming willful or stubborn. A few examples of their training needs include; Obedience training This will help your dog to learn basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Agility training This is a fun way to give your dog some exercise and mental stimulation. You can train for agility by setting up a course in your backyard or taking your dog to an agility class. Tracking This is a great activity for dogs who love to use their sense of smell. You can start tracking training by hiding treats around the house and teaching your dog to follow the scent to find them. Socialization training This is crucial for preventing aggression in your Boxmas. With proper training and socialization, the Boxmas can be a great addition to any family. Is the Boxer Mastiff Mix Loyal? Yes, they are! The Boxer Mastiff Mix is one of the most loyal dog breeds. They are also protective of their family and home. If you are new to the household and you want that loyalty from them, you need to gain their trust first. The best way to do this is by being consistent with your rules and providing them with plenty of love, attention, and exercise. Once they trust you, they will be your loyal companion for life. Boxmas Barking Levels The Boxer Mastiff Mix is not a yappy dog, but they will bark when they feel the need to protect their home or family. If you want to control their barking levels, you can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to tire them out. Boxmas Drooling Levels The Boxmas is not a particularly drooly dog, but they may drool when they are excited or nervous. If you are concerned about their drooling levels, you can wipe their face with a damp cloth to keep the drool from getting too out of control. You can also feed them smaller meals more frequently to help reduce the amount of drool they produce. Another way to help with the drooling is to give your dog plenty of chew toys to help keep their minds occupied and help reduce anxiety. The Boxer Mastiff Mix is a large breed dog, so they will need high-quality dog food that is formulated for large breed dogs. This food should be high in protein and fat to help them maintain their energy levels and muscle mass. It is important to avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates as this can lead to obesity in these dogs. You should also avoid giving them table scraps as this can lead to digestive issues. They can have meals like; Raw meat.
For the complete list please see our German Shepherd links page. German Shepherds are excellent family pets. They are loyal and protective of their owners and make great companions for children. The price can fluctuate even more depending on whether the pup is registered with the AKC or not. Purebred German Shepherds that are registered with the AKC typically sell for more money than those that are not. There are many wonderful German Shepherds waiting for homes. Contact the national breed club and ask for breeder recommendations in your area. Good breeders belong to at least one or more of these organizations: 2. A reputable breeder produces puppies with excellent health and temperament; they also take care when matching puppies with new owners. A good breeder will provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of hereditary diseases by a veterinary professional. Check online reviews and ratings of German Shepherd breeders in New Hampshire and speak to current and past pet owners before making a decision about which breeder to work with. Ask for a tour of the kennel and make sure all of the parent dogs appear to be clean, healthy, well-behaved and friendly. Make sure you feel comfortable with your breeder and ask as many questions as possible before deciding to buy a puppy from them. A good breeder should want to provide you with all of the information you need and should be available to answer any questions in the future. This can be very helpful because it allows you to see if the parent dogs are well-behaved, friendly towards other people and animals, etc. Breeders who produce healthier pets generally take very good care of them; they spend lots of time socializing the puppies and making sure they are comfortable around new people. If possible, try to observe any interactions between adult dogs at the kennel and young puppies so that you can get a sense of how the breeder raises their puppies. A good breeder wants you to be happy with your new pet and will work with you to answer any questions or address any issues you may have. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in New Hampshire A reputable breeder will have references that you can contact to learn about their experience working with them. Calling the recommended breeders is a great way for you to get in touch with people who have actually interacted with your newly selected German Shepherd breeder. When talking to references, be sure to ask lots of questions. Here are a few ideas: How was your experience working with this breeder? Was your puppy healthy and did it have a good temperament? Was the breeder available for support after you got your puppy? Would you recommend this breeder to others? You should ask if the parents of the puppies are screened for any hereditary diseases at all stages of life. Good breeders will also have their puppies vaccinated and dewormed at an early age. They should also provide you with a health record of your puppy that includes dates of all vaccinations and deworming treatments. Your breeder should also be willing to offer a health guarantee on the puppies. The breeder should be able to provide references from people who have interacted with their kennel. These customer references can give you valuable insight on things like: What was their experience working with this breeder? Would they recommend this breeder to others? How were their interactions with all of the different staff members at the kennel? There are many places you can find a new pet, including animal shelters and rescue groups. That being said, working with a good kennel who is knowledgeable about their breed can make having a new German Shepherd an easy experience for you and your family. If you think that this may be the right breeder for you or if they meet all of our requirements , we encourage you open up your heart and home to one of their lovable pups. Your breeder should have a veterinarian they use and trust. The veterinarian should also do health screenings on the dogs in the kennel and provide routine care for them. There are some unethical breeders who are only interested in making a profit. Some warning signs that you may be dealing with an unethical breeder include: They are not willing to provide references from past customers. They do not health test their parent dogs for genetic diseases. They do not vaccinate or deworm their puppies. They do not have a good veterinarian they use. If you notice any of these red flags, we encourage you to walk away and find a different breeder. German Shepherds make great pets and should only come from a responsible breeder. Asking the breeder about what they know will help you make an informed decision about your dog. The breeder should be willing to share any health tests they have done on the parent dogs, including hip scores and elbow certifications. They should also know if their breeding stock suffers from any genetic illnesses or hereditary problems. Make sure that all of your electrical cords are put away and inaccessible to your puppy. Have a safe place for the puppy to sleep, like a crate or dog bed. Stock up on food, water bowls, toys, and other supplies. Make sure that all family members are prepared to handle training and obedience commands. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to get your new puppy checked out and vaccinated. Be prepared to devote at least 30 minutes each day to exercising and training your new pet. With the right preparation, you and your family can enjoy years of companionship with this wonderful breed. Always take your puppy outside immediately after waking up, eating, drinking water, playing, and resting. Once outside, give your pup about minutes to go potty. Take them outside every 30 minutes or so until they start going potty on their own after only a couple of minutes out there. This will let them know what they are supposed to do while they are still young enough to be easily trained. Puppy Obedience Training Puppy obedience training is also very important and should start as soon as you bring your new pet home. Make sure to use positive reinforcement when teaching your pup basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down. Start with simple commands and then move on to more difficult ones as your puppy masters the basics. With a little bit of hard work, you can have a well-behaved German Shepherd that will be a cherished member of your family for years to come. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. We own 20 acres of land with acres of forest behind us. Please feel free to check our Facebook page for news about StormCloud Long Coated German Shepherds We have been raising both long coat also known as long hair and stock coat German Shepherd Dogs since .Presently, we are breeding large mahogany red with black long coated German Shepherds which have proven to produce stunning puppies that are healthy, beautiful and have a sound and calm temperament. Very Exciting News. The temperaments on these stunning pups will be sound, happy and calm! Absolutely just what to look for in a true German Shepherd Dog! We welcome inquiries about all our dogs. Let us know what you desire in your German Shepherd Dog. Each of the females lends something a little different to each litter. This could be color, different types of temperament, Search and Rescue abilities, etc. We invite you to come and visit us and meet our 'Pack'. Feel free to check our website often as things are ever happening! Great new photos of our Long Coat German Shepherd puppies and adults having a blast! We ship to all 50 states! Hi there. We are climbing Welch-Dickey. All rights reserved. Send email to us at stormcloudshepherds gmail. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in New Hampshire? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in New Hampshire cost? Whether you are searching for German Shepherd puppies for sale in New Hampshire or just a fun-loving German Shepherd puppy that falls beneath your budget, our network could be of use. Instead of wasting your time browsing the internet for New Hampshire German Shepherd breeders, why not make use of our expansive network of top-rated breeders? Does Uptown Puppies limit my search? No, in fact your search is not limited at all! When you make the decision to find your new companion through Uptown Puppies, one of the biggest advantages is expanding your search beyond German Shepherd breeders in New Hampshire. Finding a puppy through one of our listings means that you are choosing to work with a top-rated breeder, not one of the unethical puppy breeding businesses that has become common online. How does Uptown screen Shepherd breeders? As opposed to forming a list of search results strongly based on yearly sales or marketing budgets, our strategy is much different. At Uptown Puppies, we only list top puppy businesses and breeders who are able to pass our rigorous vetting process and take our prestigious Breeder Pledge. Why is Uptown Puppies different? Through our vetting process, our team is able to sort through and weed out all of the puppy mills and backyard breeders so that you don't have to. How common are puppy mills in New Hampshire? Puppy mills can actually be pretty large, often falling into the dangerous trap of inbreeding dogs which can lead to serious health issues later in life. What happens if I am looking for a specific size German Shepherd? If you are absolutely prepared to meet your new German Shepherd puppy, Uptown Puppies is the correct place for you to be. How does Uptown work? The Uptown Puppies process is actually fairly simple. Instead of stumbling around online looking for German Shepherd puppies for sale in New Hampshire, all you have to do is browse through our pages of available litters to find the one that is interesting to you. Once you express your interest to the top rated breeder who raised the puppy, all that's left to do is meet your adorable new german Shepherd. How do I trust Uptown Puppies? Our team of professionals are committed to screening each and every puppy business or breeder who is able to list a puppy on our website. What if there are no Beagle puppies near me? The partners in our network are skilled at making travel accommodations for their Shepherd puppies all over the country, meaning you can pick up your new companion at a local airport. No need to worry, puppies always fly in the cabin, not underneath the plane! What kind of dog can I expect when I bring home a German Shepherd puppy? German Shepherds grow up to be big,fun-loving, energetic dogs with a curious, sometimes overly clever personality. German Shepherds, even as puppies are strong, loyal dogs who are always ready for an adventure.
By Whitney on August 1, This page may include affiliate links. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Whether you have a puppy or a 10 year old pup, Goldendoodle grooming in the comfort of your own home is a valuable skill. Lucky for you, we have a video tutorial series on DIY full-body grooming that will guide you through the entire process of Doodle grooming. You can find those videos and some brief step-by-step instructions below, as well as on our YouTube channel. By the way, all these videos were shot in first person perspective, so you can see what the groom looks like from your point of view! Gradually pull small portions of hair down with the brush. See Also: Click the image Brushing and removing mats is especially important before going on to the next step, because water will make mats bigger and tighter. For instance, since blades by themselves take off most of the hair and cut closer to the skin than clipper combs, it may not make much sense to spend all that time bathing and blow drying your Doodle, only to clip all their hair off in the end. However, if you will be using clipper combs a. Whether you will be using bare blades or clipper combs, be aware that clipping a dirty coat will cause your blades to accumulate oil and dirt, causing them to become dull and ineffective quicker. Related Content. Conclusions I asked the experts — when to start grooming a Goldendoodle? While I had a fair idea of when I would first start grooming a Goldendoodle puppy — I decided to ask the experts! I sent the following short survey to four Poodle Mix breed groomers, two Goldendoodle breeders, and 8 actual Goldendoodle owners. I then ran a poll on a Goldendoodle owner Facebook group and verified the results were consistent. There were four simple questions that we asked to find out when to start grooming a Goldendoodle Puppy. How old should a Goldendoodle be for first grooming What age should a Goldendoodle start being shampooed? What age to start cleaning Goldendoodle ears? How often Does a Goldendoodle need to be trimmed in its first year? I then asked for any special comments, some of which you can see in the results below, supporting what we found. As always thank you to our experts — we are thrilled our panel was willing to answer our surveys and help us out. Here are the results! The experts mostly agreed that a Goldendoodle should be first groomed around 5 months of age. A pie chart of the expert survey results showing how the experts recommend when to start grooming a goldendoodle puppy. The breeders trended a little higher, recommending first grooming around 7 months of age. The owners and groomers settled at 5 months. Everyone mostly agreed around 5 months of age is the first time to groom a Goldendoodle. The primary reason for this is that around this time most Goldendoodle will be shedding their puppy coats. It is also around this time that you will get a clearer picture of what type of coat your Goldendoodle actually has. This will influence the frequency and cost of grooming over the lifespan of your Goldendoodle. Straight coats shed a lot more but are lower maintenance. Wavy and curly coats are low to no shedding but require more frequent grooming. There are lots of sounds, sights, smells and touching that a Goldendoodle needs to get used to. The earlier the better they feel about grooming when older. This is great because Goldendoodles can get stinky. There were four options to select from. Many owners use puppy shampoo for the first year or two. This is especially true if they have a super cute teacup or toy miniature Goldendoodle. It varies dog to dog! Any Poodle Mix Breed needs to be acutely aware of the issues that our awesome mixbreed dogs inherit from the Poodle. The shape of the ear canal and hair that grows can lead to troubles and ear odours. Cleaning a Poodle Mix ear canal is something that can easily be done at home. Goldendoodles will require regular grooming and upkeep. You can trim your Goldendoodle at home! If you feel up to it — it is a worthy challenge! Even if it is not going to be a regular thing — I recommend everyone learns how to do a Goldendoodle puppy cut. With that said — our awesome Groomers do an amazing job — and are usually worth the money if you can spare it! They can be magnificent at keeping your Goldendoodle calm and enjoyable. Depending on the generation and coat type of your Goldendoodle , this can be subtle. For others, it is a very noticeable change. Our experts recommended 5 months and older for grooming because Goldendoodle tend to be in the start of the puppy coat transition at this point. This only refers to a whole body trim, as a hygienic and comfort trim of the paws, eyes, and around the butt are safe and common. The change is so minor in some wavy coated Goldendoodle that you will not even notice it. For straight hair or curly, it can be a significant difference in softness. Cutting the Goldendoodle puppy hair at the right time around 5 months plus gives the easiest foundation for soft fur and easy maintenance. An exception is if your Goldendoodle just ends up too dang shaggy before they hit 5 months. Some Groodles just have fast growing hair! It is unavoidable for such dogs to have a full body trim earlier. Conclusions You should start grooming your Goldendoodle early to get them used to the procedure. The first full groom will come around 5 months of age. This is an ideal time as the Goldendoodle puppy coat will be shedding. A Goldendoodle puppy cut and coat trim will keep your puppy looking and feeling fresh. It is very possible to figure out the type of Goldendoodle coat early using these tricks. You can wash a Goldendoodle puppy with shampoo and conditioner from a very early age. You should only wash when indicated till the dog is older. For puppies only wash when there is dirt or bacteria. Choose the best shampoo for Goldendoodle puppies based on reviews and testing. You can safely groom a Goldendoodle at home, from cleaning their Poodle Mix ears , right through to full haircuts and groom following online guides. For more information about Goldendoodles, consider reading our comprehensive Goldendoodle Vs Labradoodle breed guide. If you enjoyed this article, consider checking out our extensively researched article about what do do if your Goldendoodle barks all the time. We figure out the causes, and find ways to minimise and eliminate problem barking behaviour. All from home, all for free. A Pinterest friendly image for this article. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Nail clippers Dog hair dryer If you intend to groom your doodle at home regularly, a dog grooming table is a handy piece of equipment to add to your kit. This is done by brushing one line of hair away at a time. Using a metal or stainless steel comb with wide gaps is best for getting rid of mats, tangles, and loose hair in doodles with thick and curly fur. A dematting rake is better for removing mats in wavier coats. Removing tangles and knots is vital before bathing your dog. Brushing and combing your doodle should take place once to twice a week for a healthy, shiny coat. Bathing your dog before clipping their hair gives a better finish to the haircut. Some owners choose to shower with their doodles, while others use a bathtub. Work with the grain of the coat to prevent tangles or knots. Avoid using harsh ruffling movements, as this will encourage matting. Depending on how skilled you are, you can choose to use grooming scissors or dog clippers. Thoroughly clip the entire body, including the back, sides, and hind legs, including the base. The clipper guard ensures you get a uniform cut over the whole body. Trim the hair around the ear canal entrance to a slightly shorter length. Using round-tipped thinning shears , trim the fur around the eyes so your dog can see properly. Make sure your dog is calm and still when trimming around the eyes to prevent a nasty accident from happening! Using professional dog nail trimmers with a safety stop feature helps get the job done neatly, quickly, and free of injuries! Dog dental care is vital to prevent tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other oral health conditions. Using a finger brush dog toothbrush can also make it easier to get to the hard-to-reach parts of the mouth while making the experience less intimidating for your doodle. A quick tip! Feed your doodle the best dog food for dental health for proper oral care. How often you groom your doodle depends on how long or short you want their coat to be. For shorter coats, grooming should take place every six to eight weeks. Goldendoodles are a combination of poodle and golden retriever breeds. This means they have thick, curly, or wavy coats. Occasionally, you may come across a doodle with straight fur similar to that of the golden retriever. What is a teddy bear cut on a goldendoodle? There are numerous haircuts that can be used on a goldendoodle. However, the most popular and adorable style is the teddy bear cut. This style resembles our childhood teddy bears with a round face, button eyes, bear-like paws, and a soft, fluffy body. When should I brush my goldendoodle puppy teeth? This way, your pup can get used to having their teeth brushed every day when they get older. Final Thoughts On Goldendoodle Grooming Knowing how to groom a goldendoodle at home saves you time and money, and it builds a great relationship between you and your doodle! Having the right dog grooming kit is vital for a successful groom and happy goldendoodle. Grooming keeps your dog comfortable while ensuring their overall wellness, and it includes: Brushing and combing regularly to keep messy mats at bay Trimming the fur on the whole body and face Keeping the nails short and brushing teeth daily Following my eight steps on how to groom a goldendoodle face and body will have you mastering the techniques used by professional dog groomers! Tell us about your experiences grooming your goldendoodle in the comment section below. You May Also Like. Puppy Grooming: First Haircut When should a goldendoodle puppy go to the groomer? What do you do? The first trip to the groomer Your puppy has hopefully! She should have already had her initial introduction to her lifetime of being groomed. Your goldendoodle puppy should visit a professional groomer for the first time after her week immunizations. Since she will need regular grooming throughout her life, both she and her groomer will benefit if she is accustomed to being groomed from a young age. The first big girl or big boy haircut The wavy, curly adult coat will start replacing the soft, fluffy puppy coat around months of age. Waiting to cut the hair until the adult coat makes its debut beneath the layers of puppy fur helps ensure that the adult coat remains soft. Poodle groomers and poodle fanciers claim that shaving a poodle or goldendoodle down before her adult coat starts coming in could damage the adult coat, affecting the texture. Take your goldendoodle puppy for her first full big girl haircut at months of age, once her adult coat has started coming in. As aforementioned, take her to the groomer for a puppy clip after her week immunizations. Before your first big trip to the groomer for that full haircut, spend time looking through pictures of goldendoodle haircuts. You can also read about what to expect when you take her to the groomer and how to avoid a poodle-style haircut. You should regularly groom your puppy: brushing her hair, cleaning her ears, brushing her teeth, clipping her toenails , and checking her for any anomalies i. You want your puppy to become accustomed to being brushed from a young age. Do the brief bonding exercise with your puppy each night before bed to ensure she is used to being touched and handled. Your groomer with thank you. Trust me. Still have questions about goldendoodle puppy grooming? Learn more about what shampoos and brushes to purchase for grooming your goldendoodle from a professional goldendoodle groomer. Share this:. If you have any tips that we could share with our Rainfield Goldendoodle family, please contacct us through Rainfield Facebook page or at my email at laurie rainfieldgoldendoodles. Goldendoodle Puppies at weeks old. Their coats are fluffy and getting thicker. The pup in the middle will be the first to need the hair around his eyes trimmed. We are not being paid or compensated to advertise these. These are just items we have research and added to our grooming set up. Here at Rainfield, we have puppies whose coats range from quite curly our F1bb or some F1b puppies to shaggy wavy coats our F1s and some F1bs. Goldendoodles take a couple years to get their full and final coats, so their coats will change and transition during those first two years. They usually start off pretty fluffy with baby fuzz underneath. Gradually the curlier doodles get more of a curly, poodle-like coat, although usually with looser curls that a poodle. The shaggy wavy coated doodles, get a longer, fuller, straighter coat, often with a little curl in it. In our experience, curlier goldendoodles need their first actual grooming experience a little earlier monhs old than the shaggy wavy doodles months. Two different coat types. Marcus the Great is an F1 doodle and has a shaggy, wavy coat. Princess Neely is an F1b Mini Goldendoodle puppy. She has a beautiful curly coat. Get Your Puppy Started with Weekly Grooming Maintenance Regardless of the coat type, before you start full-on grooming a goldendoodle puppy,they need to get used to regular brushings and the sounds of the grooming table blowers, clippers, etc. Go ahead and blow dry them a little bit after each bath. If you have clippers or beard trimmers, turn on the clippers and let your goldendoodle get used to the sound. Bring the clippers close to their fur in different places, their head, legs, feet. Give your doodles dog treats while the blower or clippers are going so your doodle develops a positive association with those sounds. Brushing your goldendoodle puppy at least once a week is very important. The earliest grooming a goldendoodle puppy needs is often an eye, ear and sanitary trim. When their hair starts getting in their eyes, or fuzzing out their ears, and when poop residue starts clinging to their fur near their butt, your doodle is ready for their first light grooming. Amber is a 5 month old F1 Goldendoodle Puppy. With our puppies that often happens at about weeks of age. You can either take them to the groomer to get this done, or, if you are more of a DIYer like we are, you can do this at home. A little trim around the eyes, a light buzz on the inside of the ears with a small trimmer like this one and some scissor clipping around their potty areas might be enough to tide you over until their coat is thick enough for their first official grooming. Just be careful because doodles can be bouncy. We use safety tip grooming scissors that have rounded ends for the areas around their face. A scissor clip will even her coat out a bit. With that nice coat, we want her to be used to regular grooming and the grooming table as well. Our doodles seem to need their first grooming at about 5 months old, but puppies with an especially thick, full coat, may need it sooner. Puppies with thinner coats, may be able to go longer than that. We do most of our own grooming, when possible. We prefer the longer, shaggier look on our goldendoodles, so we prefer to start with scissor clipping when grooming a goldendoodle puppy. Scissor clipping is all Amber needs for now. A grooming table makes all the difference. We use the large Flying Pig Brand. Grooming a goldendoodle puppy takes skill, but Violet 16 has learned her grooming techniques by watching Youtube videos. Amber feels good and looks so much cleaner and neater after getting all that puppy fuzz off. Dogs with long ears can have more ear trouble as the hair grows and gets trapped in their ears. Once this happens, moisture is retained and yeast and other bacteria can become a problem. Part of your weekly grooming maintenance should be checking their ears and using an ear wash. We use Zymox Otic and use that for 3 or 4 days. Brownie has those long, floppy doodle ears that need regular cleanings to keep yeast growth at bay. Submit a Comment Your email address will not be published.
Pairing the sweet and friendly nature of the Labrador Retriever with the low-shedding Poodle genes, we get the most charming Doods that any owner would love to have by their side. And as both Poodles and Labradors are extremely intelligent, training Labradoodles is an absolute breeze! Thorough health screening helps breeders choose the healthiest pups for breeding new litters. As a result, the new litters have a much lower chance of inheriting any hereditary health issues. Likewise, ethical Labradoodle breeders in Florida also offer a health guarantee, which covers any serious genetic conditions that the parent pups have been tested for. The health guarantees usually cover the first two years, but some breeders also offer three-year health guarantees. However, all of these organizations require their member breeders to follow ethical breeding guidelines and strict health testing standards. And if any of your friends, family members, or neighbors have recently adopted a Labradoodle puppy, reach out to them and ask about their experiences with various breeders in your state. Their goal is to breed happy and healthy Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles with wonderful temperaments. At Coastal Labradoodles, they raise all of their puppies in a loving and safe home environment. All of their breeding dogs are family pets first who either live with the breeder or with carefully chosen guardian families. This ensures that each dog is pampered and loved by their very own family. Coastal Labradoodles conducts extensive health and genetic testing on all of their breeding dogs to ensure the health and wellbeing of their litters. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Coastal Labradoodles follows Puppy Culture and Avidog methods when raising their puppies. Since they raise their puppies inside their own home as part of their family, their pups are already well-socialized with adults, children, and other dogs. In addition to that, their pups are well-adjusted to all sorts of household sights and sounds, and they even start with potty training and crate training before the pups go to their forever homes. Puppies receive all age appropriate vaccinations, deworming, and a microchip. Waitlist: Yes. Our puppies are all over the world and would be happy to make you part of our puppy family. Thank you for visiting South Florida Australian Labradoodles. .We are the first multigenerational registered Australian Labradoodle in South Florida. We started in with our first mini Australian Labradoodle and fell in love with the temperament of this breed. Since then, we have held back mostly our own puppies and created the amazing lines we have today. We have generation after generation of our same lines, so our puppies temperaments are very predictable. We have since grown to our wonderful puppies being all over the world. We specialize in Mini Australian Labradoodles and know how important it is to know you are getting an Authentic Australian Labradoodle that is healthy, sound temperament, correct structure and amazing coats. All of our breeding dogs are registered and health tested to the standards of the ALAA. We adhere to a strict code of ethics, breed standard and strive to do everything with the highest integrity. All of our puppies are raised in our home and receive endless kisses by the time they go home. If you did not receive a response please check your junk mail. Coastal Labradoodles has been family-owned since and is dedicated to providing the highest quality of labradoodle puppies. We offer multi-generation labradoodles that have been bred with the utmost care and attention. Our puppies are raised with love and socialized to provide the perfect pet for any family. When you purchase one of our puppies, you get more than just a pet. Our white glove service includes a healthy puppy guarantee and a lifetime of support for both you and the puppy. Coastal Labradoodles LLC To be guardian family for one of our breeding dogs Our goal is to raise well-balanced multi-generation Australian Labradoodle puppies. Coastal Labradoodles is committed to health screening all breeding dogs, subscribing to the ethics, rules, and regulations of the largest and most comprehensive ALD breeders club in the world, the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association WALA. We are proud to be founders of this excellent and well respected organizaiton, where health and disposition are put foremost for this incredible breed. All our puppies have certified pedigreed thorugh WALA with generations that go back decades. In addition, they are selected for disposition, coat and heathy conformation. They gain confidence through positive experiences and daily stimulation activties, long tested to be effective in raising healthy puppies in body and brain. We offer lifetime support. Experience and certification with an established and pedigreed organization matter. We have over fifteen years of both of these. Our puppies are confident and eager to bond with humans of every kind. This includes physical traits, disease, as well as disposition. Puppies are checked by our vet and vaccinated. We offer a lifetime of support and love to keep in contact. Photos are enjoyed! We are proud to be a member and abide by the ethics of this organization. These certifications help ensure that your new Australian Labradoodle puppy is the real deal. Our dogs are carefully selected so their puppies will have wonderful dispositions, amazing conformation, and hypoallergenic coats for which the breed was developed and is sought after. Our goal is to provide allergy friendly Australian Labradoodle puppies that are healthy, smart, and people oriented as family pets as well as therapy and service dogs. Our foundation dogs were chosen specifically because they were the best examples of the breed standards set forth by WALA. With each and every litter we produce we are striving to produce a better puppy that lives a full and happy healthy life. This ensures that our dogs are as healthy as possible before breeding. We use temperament testing and conformation evaluation to help us breed for for calm, confident, and people focused puppies with correct structure. We also use the temperament test results to help place puppies in the right homes. These breeding practices help ensure that you get the best possible Australian Labradoodle puppy available for your family or service dog. We feel that every family should own one of these wonderful Australian Labradoodle puppies for a joyful addition to your family. See why we belong to WALA in this video below.Sunrise Australian Labradoodles. They are located in the St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay and St. Pete Beach areas of Florida. To learn more you can visit their website here or send them an email at tbalusa gmail. They have been in business since .They breed allergy and asthma friendly mini, medium and standard size Australian Labradoodle puppies. All of their breeding dogs are health tested according to the standard of the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association. The kennel was founded by Peggy, who opened her business because of her love for dogs and desire for safer breeding practices. They socialize and teach. And, they provide a lot of interaction between their puppies. Individualized attention to their litters. They start training early and send them home vaccinated. They are located in Tampa Bay and Central Florida. To learn more about Seaspray and their upcoming litters, visit their website here. Lakewood Labradoodles Lakewood is a breeder of allergy friendly australian labradoodles. Located in Winter Haven, they raise their puppies inside their home as members of their family. Before you can take them home, Lakewood helps to begin the training process by laying a foundation for a well trained pet. For more information on their upcoming litters, visit their website here. They specialized in miniature to medium sized Australian Labradoodle puppies. I do not work outside of the home and I am fully involved in their upbringing, early development and training. They test for genetic diseases such as hip dysplasia, PRA and have eye exams annually. Before you bring your puppy home, they will be vaccinated, given a microchip, dewormed and given a well-puppy exam at 8 weeks. Plus, their litters are evaluated by a behaviorist to ensure good behavior before you bring your new dog home. To learn more about their upcoming litters and to view their dogs, visit their website here. They genetically and radio graphically test all their dogs for genetic disease and any health issues. Their puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. The communication you provided during the process was spot on. With an excited family, it was great seeing the updates on the puppy and the pictures. Beau is beautiful and loved. He has a personality all his own, different than the Labs we owned. My wife Kelly got diagnosed with breast cancer not long after we got Beau and he has been a great pal for her. He loves her and she loves him. They breed their dogs to the highest of standards and each dog is registered and health tested to the regulations of the ALCA. Additionally, they have all of their breeding dogs DNA profiles so you know that you are getting an Authentic Multigenerational Australian Labradoodle. Before you bring your puppy home, they use neurological stimulation and activities to promote well behaved and confident pets. We want to raise our Australian Labradoodle puppies to have the best chance to grow into confident, stable and able to handle the stresses and challenges of a modern lifestyle. Fursure Helps Pet Parents Find The Best Pet Insurance Policy With the cost of veterinary bills rising each year, you could easily find yourself paying thousands out of pocket if an accident or illness were to occur. Let our team at Fursure help you get started on finding the best pet insurance policy for your furry friend. You pet will thank you! To get your pet protected and covered in just a few minutes , buy a pet insurance policy today! Join the Pack No spam. Just the very best in show products, expert pet parenting advice, and more.Read about our privacy policy. Thank you! Your submission has been received! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Introducing pet insurance that pays your vet directly. We let you keep your cash on hand, so you can focus on giving your pet the best care possible. A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself. We are a small breeder of exceptional companion, multi-generational Australian Labradoodle Puppies. We are located in the central Florida area, minutes away from Orlando and very accessible via all of the major central Florida highways. All of our litters are hand raised in our home, never in a kennel. Our puppies are born in our master bedroom or bathroom, where they remain until they are three and a half to four weeks old. During this early period, we begin using puppy culture techniques in order to help raise very confident, well balanced puppies. At just over three weeks, we introduce a designated potty area, which they often begin finding within a couple of days, we also introduce solid foods at this same time initially goats milk, then a few days later we begin adding raw food. Later they are moved into our main living area, where they are exposed many new sounds, sights, textures and experiences in preparation for joining your family. The majority of our parent dogs share a home with one of our incredible guardian families. Virtually all of our guardians have come to us by way of referral from our existing guardian families - we'd like to think that is indicative of a very positive relationship. By implementing our guardian family team, our mom and dad dogs often live as the single pampered pet of their household. This is consistent in maintaining great family dogs - likely one of the reasons that you are considering an Australian labradoodle puppy. Our guardians are very hands on with the shaping of your future puppy, sometimes even assisting during the birthing process and later with weekly visits to their home - this is good for our momma dogs, their families and of course our puppies. Our visits allow our pups weekly car rides from week one, as well as early handling and socialization in a very safe and controlled environment. Our parent dogs are rigorously health tested prior to being considered for breeding and assessed for their temperament. We have been working with most of our lines for over fourteen years and have continued to refine them. When we give consideration to using outside lines, we are very attentive to the same qualities we seek in our parent dogs. While the majority of our litters are medium in size, we do occasionally offer mini doodles as well as standards. We tend to specialize and be known for our red and chocolate labradoodle lines, but also produce a great variety of other colors and patterns. Thank you for visiting our website! Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. We look forward to becoming part of your happily furever after!
Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. Nadelhaus breeds purebred German Shepherds year round and we also import both German Shepherd puppies and adults direct from Europe for our clients. Long-haired German Shepherds are technically called a long coat German Shepherd, while a short-haired German Shepherd is called a normal coat or stock coat German Shepherd. Dogs with either coat have the same physiological structure and both have double coats: an undercoat and a top coat. The only difference between the two is the top coat. The long haired German Shepherd will have a heavier top coat than the undercoat. The double coat of a German Shepherd is an important feature of the breed. The double coat weathers and insulates the dogs—it protects them from the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer. The length of the coat of a German Shepherd has no impact on its ability as a working dog. What does a long haired German Shepherd look like? The skeleton and structure of a long-haired German Shepherd will be the same as a short-haired German Shepherd. Both dogs will have an undercoat, but the difference is that the top coat of a long-haired German Shepherd will be longer. The long coat GSD has longer and silkier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Short on the head, including the inside of the ears, on the front side of the legs, on the paws and toes, somewhat longer and more strongly covered in hair on the neck, almost forming a mane. On the back side of the legs the hair extends to the carpal joint or the hock and forms clear trousers on the back side of the haunches. Historically, German Shepherds originated in Germany and were native sheepdogs. He firmly believed that the standard of the German Shepherd breed should not include dogs with long hair. Throughout the s, long haired German Shepherds were considered unsuitable and unacceptable for breeding. It is important to note that long-haired German Shepherds are the result of natural genetic diversity and not a separate breed. Their long coats are an inherited trait that can occur when both parents carry the recessive long-hair gene. This gene manifests as a more luxurious and abundant coat, offering a striking contrast to the traditional short-haired German Shepherd appearance. The breeding of long-haired German Shepherds follows the same rigorous standards and principles as their short-haired counterparts. The focus remains on maintaining the breed's exceptional temperament, working abilities, and overall health. Over time, breeders recognized the value of long-haired German Shepherds and began selectively breeding them to maintain and enhance their unique characteristics. Through careful pairings and strategic breeding programs, the long-haired variety established itself as a distinct and cherished branch of the German Shepherd breed. How big do long-haired German Shepherds get? Long-haired German Shepherds are structurally the same as short-haired German Shepherds, therefore they can both grow to similar sizes. Males: inches tall, pounds Females: inches tall, pounds Since both German Shepherds are physiologically the same, they also have the same temperaments: loyal, intelligent, energetic, courageous and protective. German Shepherds are ranked 2 on the AKC Breed Popularity list and make for wonderful family companions and working dogs. How can I identify a long-haired German Shepherd puppy? In the photo below are two litter mates from a recent Nadelhaus litter. The puppy on the left is a long coat and the puppy on the right is a normal coat. The long coat has wispier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Long-hair female German Shepherd next to short-hair male German Shepherd. Genetically in German Shepherds, the short hair gene is dominant and the long hair gene is recessive. This means if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated, but neither carries the recessive long hair gene, then no long haired puppies can be produced. However, if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated and both carry the recessive gene, then long-haired German Shepherd puppies can be produced. Long-haired German Shepherds are considered a less common variant of the breed, adding to their allure and exclusivity. While short-haired German Shepherds dominate the breed standard, enthusiasts of long-haired Shepherds appreciate their unique beauty and elegant appearance. Due to their rarity, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization specializing in long-haired German Shepherds may require some research and patience. However, the joy of owning one of these beautiful dogs is well worth the effort for those who appreciate their longer coats and exceptional qualities. Do long-haired German Shepherds shed more than short-haired German Shepherds? No, this is a common misconception. Although they shed less than short haired German Shepherds, their coats still require regular maintenance. They will need regular brushing and grooming, especially if you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities with your GSD. While it is a rare occurrence for a long-haired GSD to not have an undercoat, most of them do have undercoats. And just like short-haired GSDs, their undercoats will shed more or less throughout the year depending on the season. Should I trim my long haired German Shepherd's coat? The decision to trim a long haired German Shepherd comes down to personal preference, but it is not a necessity. Trimming can help make for more manageable living around the house. If you choose to trim, you can trim around the backs of the ears, on the back of the legs both front and back and then thin the bushy tail. Shaving a German Shepherd on the other hand is never recommended. Their double coats help keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. What are long haired German Shepherds called? Regular brushing: Long-haired German Shepherds require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition. Finish your brushing session with a gentle dog brush to clean up loose hairs. Bathing and drying: It's important to bathe your long-haired German Shepherd as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all the shampoo to prevent any residue. After bathing, use a high-velocity dryer or a cool air dryer to dry their coat thoroughly, as moisture trapped in the fur can lead to skin issues. Professional grooming: Consider taking your long-haired German Shepherd to a professional groomer for occasional trimming and coat maintenance. A groomer can help keep the fur around sensitive areas, such as the paws and ears, tidy and reduce the chances of matting. Watch for seasonal shedding: Like all German Shepherds, long-haired ones will undergo shedding seasons. Be prepared for increased shedding during these times and brush your dog more frequently to remove loose hair. A de-shedding tool can be helpful in managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy. Remember, each dog is unique, and the specific care requirements may vary. Does Nadelhaus sell long haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short hair, we do have occasionally have long haired puppies. We breed all our German Shepherds in the black and red color. If you are looking for a long haired adult German Shepherd, we can also import long-haired German Shepherds direct from Europe. Contact us for more information. Studies show that physical connection with your pup is good for you, relieving stress and actually lowering blood pressure, and really, is it any wonder? After all, some of these super huggable hounds are so large dog breeds , it's almost like cuddling a human. But unlike human companions, they're covered head to toe in soft, fuzzy floof! Even one of the Drummond dogs , Presley the German shepherd, are represented in this list! And a lot of the cuddling canines on our list of fluffy dogs are highly intelligent herding dogs , making them perfect companions whether you're at home or on the range. Many of these breeds also come from cold climates—including Siberian huskies, Alaskan malamutes, Tibetan mastiffs, and Saint Bernards—which is great news if you do, too. Their thick, coats were made to withstand that winter wonderland weather. So take a peek at our list and then plan accordingly if you're thinking about adopting one of these beauties. Chances are good that a dog of this kind will require some significant, regular grooming. But just think of all the love you'll receive in return! But he is a famously friendly, enthusiastic pup perfect for life as a family dog. You may seldom see his eyes, but brush the old English sheepdog thoroughly a few times a week to keep that long, beautiful coat knot-free and you'll have a best bud for life. A Newfie is the doggo for you! With a water-resistant coat, massive lung capacity and webbed toes, this Canadian breed made its mark as a shipboard dog that could be counted on to perform daring sea rescues in the frigid Atlantic. The noble Newfoundland, which can reach pounds, has a tendency to seriously shed and occasionally drool, making grooming at least once a week a must. Literally bred to be cuddlers—their humans have long huddled up against them to keep warm on frozen Arctic nights—Sammies are deeply social dogs. They typically don't do well without their people, so be prepared to spend lots of time playing with and petting this pack-oriented poochie. Make a good daily brushing a part of the routine, because they shed no matter the season. Bernard is also recognized as a literal life-saver thanks to his history rescuing travelers lost in Europe's snowy Alps. Understanding, patient and placid, these very large love bugs, which can weigh more than pounds and stand some 30 inches high, are great for a household with small children. They're shedding machines, but weekly brushing will help. They're also courageous and calm, and always ready to defend home and hearth with their powerful bodies, which can easily reach more than pounds and upwards of 32 inches tall. Equally powerful is their annual spring shedding that makes way for their summer coats, so be ready for the fur to fly. You can help manage it with weekly brushing sessions. Nowadays, borzois can still reach speeds of 40 m. You will probably need to comb your borzoi every day to detangle and uncurl those long locks—if, of course, you can catch him. Whether in the field or with the fam, this is one hard worker still happiest with a job to do, even if it's just accompanying you on a long walk. Affectionate and loving, they also boast brains to go along with that brawn, so use a light touch when training—and brush that thick, double coat weekly. Their endurance and running ability is the stuff of legend; their humans should be able to run them in a secure space at least a couple of times a week. Otherwise, these fluffy charmers with the striking eyes are easy to keep, needing a good brushing just about as often as they are exercised. Bred in the Scottish Highlands as bird dogs, they are intelligent lovers-of-life that enjoy nothing more than a good swim or a game of fetch. And that gorgeous golden coat? It's hard to believe, but it only requires attention about once a week to stay shiny and soft. Of imposing size and bulk they can reach 26 inches tall and more than pounds , with a strength to match, Tibetan mastiffs have a serene, but sweet attitude when with family members. They "blow out" their coats annually in a major shedding session, but the rest of the year only need to brushed once a week. As Ree can attest, they're also whip-smart, courageous and unfailingly loyal, traits that earned them jobs in police and military K-9 units across the world. At home, German shepherds are gentle and steady, though they can be a bit reserved. Which, as a herding dog of great energy, they will need to do for about an hour everyday. You won't have to brush all that gorgeous fur more than about once a week, though. In return for the attention you'll have a deeply devoted, intelligent pup that is an ideal addition to families with even small children. You should be. These sled dogs are not only extremely strong, loving and loyal, they have a thick, waterproof double coat you'll definitely want to run your fingers through. It comes at a price, however: Alaskan Malamutes need to brushed daily with a pin brush and metal comb to avoid mats, which can lead to health problems like hot spots. Designated a national natural monument in their native Japan, they where represent protection, health and even happiness, this is another breed recognized for their steadfast nature. Akitas also have a thick double coat, but they don't really shed except for biannual blow outs, when it comes out in clumps. Brush them more frequently then; other than that, once a week will do. They aren't naturally the biggest cuddlers, but instead somewhat aloof. Socializing them well and early is critical; so is grooming them at least twice a week, paying attention to the eyes and ears, too. They require a good brushing every day, and then a more thorough tending to wither various implements like, 3 or 4 once a week—a not-inconsiderable job on a dog that can weigh as much as pounds. For all this effort, you'll be rewarded with unlimited affection and an athletic playmate that's nicely laid-back when not romping with you. He only needs to bathed about once a month, and brushed weekly; likewise this newer breed sports an easy-going personality and is known for being loving, level-headed and intelligent. The Eurasier, whose name reflects his European and Asian heritage, typically forges close ties with his human family, so this is not a dog that can be kept outside. And when their coats are kept long and brushed-out, pound for pound, few pups are more pouffy than a poodle. But all those clouds of hair take some time and energy to maintain: a full-coated poodle must be brushed and combed daily down to the skin, or nasty matting will occur. Poodles are famously smart, athletic and make great additions to families with little ones. Like most herders, briards are spirited, mega-bright and industrious, and take well to training. Groom them several times weekly down to the skin with a pin brush and undercoat rake to keep shedding under control. Train and social him early to prevent over-protectiveness, and he will make for a wonderful family dog, as long as you take care of his coat, which needs brushing a couple times a week. Use a pin brush and large comb, and plan on getting him professional trimmed at least yearly. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.
We have answers. They sure do. And yes, your pup will be flying in the cabin, NOT stowed away with the luggage. How do you screen Labrador Retriever San Diego breeders? Our strict standards encompass everything from facility size and cleanliness, breeder knowledge and experience, animal care, and much more. You have thousands upon thousands of options for buying puppies online, but vetting those breeders is sometimes impossible. What is a puppy mill? Why are some Labrador Retriever breeders in San Diego so cheap? Imagine a puppy factory where hundreds of sickly, dirty dogs are packed together, breeding litter upon litter of puppies to be sold for dirt cheap. Puppy mill dogs often develop dangerous behavioral problems, debilitating and extremely expensive genetic diseases, and tend to die much younger than properly bred animals. Are there any Labrador Retriever puppies San Diego for sale near me? Your search for awesome Lab puppies is almost over. What is the MatchMaker process? MatchMaker is how we match families with the right puppies, and match puppies with the right families. How do I know I can trust you? There are countless online puppy scams out there. We wanted to create a place where awesome families can connect with the best breeders, making it easy for those families to find healthy, happy puppies. A low ester-producing strain that results in a balanced, neutral flavor and aroma profile. Alcohol-tolerant and very versatile for a wide variety of styles. I say that because I have used other yeast with the exact same hops and grain and have tasted a difference. Very clean and all the statements of being fast and possibly blowing the cork are true. It happened to me. I was brewing a barley wine, OG , and used a yeast nutrient with the brew. Used a starter over 24 hours in advanced but the yeast showed no activity. I pitched it still thinking it was a bad batched. First day of fermentation still showed no activity, and almost pitched some to save the brew but gave it 1 more day. The next day I woke up to a mess in the cellar; the yeast had fermented so fast and so hard it blew the cork off my fermenter. It kept fermenting so hard for the next 48 hours that I couldn't keep sanitizer water in my bubbler take caution when using this yeast and know that it lives up to its name as a super yeast. I cannot wait to see how it enhances the malt and hop profile of this IPA. I find that it's best for styles that don't have much for finishing hops or dry hopping. Great for all other styles where you want a clean beer that ferments fast and drops out to give you a bright beer. Doesn't seem to be fussy about fermentation temperatures. A great yeast! A super clean, super-fast fermenting strain. Style Performance Listing A listing of how this style ranks amongst different brew styles, on a scale from 0 to 4. Our goal in breeding is to share with others the wonderful, sweet nature and playful spirit of Labradors, while keeping to the breed standard. We strive for breed standard, intellegent, highly trainable, and extremely loveable Labradors. To ensure I am producing the healthiest puppies possible, all breeding stock pass extensive genetic and physical testing. We love our Labs as members of the family, and hand-raise each puppy in our home. The best compliment we have received over and over is that our dogs are the sweetest, most cuddly, and easiest trained Labs they've ever met! First and foremost, our Labs are part of our family. We started Drake's Bay Labradors in , named after our eldest son, Drake, who took to the love of Labs and inspired us to show and breed our girls. Emma was our first little girl. Sierra came shortly after her and she was our foundation for what we are today, and the types of dogs we achieve to produce. We miss them both terribly. After taking a short break from breeding and showing, Erin started fresh with a new name, and Windansea was born. Lucy is my foundation re-boot and is out of Mojo O'Crosswind's lines, which is a return to my original line. Puppies will be ready to go home between weeks old. They will have had first shots and deworming. You will receive all health records to provide to your veterinarian. We offer a 2 year health guarantee against hereditary diseases.
good names for boxer puppies - All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Sometimes I look at photos of my dog when she was small enough to sit in the palm of my hand. When did she get so big?! Times like those make me wonder, too: how much bigger will she get? Exactly when is my puppy likely to reach her full size and stop growing? If these sound like questions you have asked yourself, then you are not alone as a pet parent. Puppies change so much in the first months of their lives, but then things slow down. As a result, their changing size can sometimes creep up and surprise you. Exactly how long it will take for your dog to reach their full size depends on their breed, and them as an individual. Read on as we look at when different types of dogs reach full size and signs that indicate whether your pup may still be growing or has finally stopped. Puppies can reach their full adult size anywhere between six and 24 months of age. Smaller dogs tend to reach their full size sooner, and live for longer, while larger dogs tend to take a bit longer to fully mature and have slightly shorter overall lifespans, but these rules do not hold true for all dogs. Below you will find a list of some of the most popular breeds and when you can expect them to reach full size. Labrador Retrievers One of the most popular breeds in the United States often used as working dogs, Labrador retrievers measure between .They tend to reach their full size at around 12 months of age. Golden retrievers are another dog popular as both family pets and working dogs. They measure between 20 and 24 inches and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. They will reach their full height at around 12 months. German Shepherds Popular as police dogs, affectionate family pets, and guard dogs, German shepherds measure between 22 and 26 inches and weigh 50 to 90 pounds. They are not considered fully grown until they are at least 18 months old. French Bulldogs These adorable compassion dogs usually stand about 12 inches tall and can weigh between 16 and 28 pounds they have a tendency to put on weight when overfed. Unusually for such a small dog, they need months to reach their full size. Bulldogs A little bigger than their French cousins, people love these dogs for their distinctive faces. They are usually 12 to 15 inches tall and weigh about 15 pounds. It takes them about 18 months to reach their full size, skin rolls and all. Poodles Among the most intelligent dogs, poodles are fantastic companions and are often used in mix-breed dogs because of their hypoallergenic coats. While toy and miniature poodles are common, standard poodles are inches tall and weigh 45 to 70 pounds. They do not reach their full size until two years of age. Beagles These little English hunters with their floppy ears measure 13 to 16 inches and weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. They reach their full size at around 18 months. Rottweilers While rottweilers can have a bad reputation because of the ways that they have been used in the past, they are naturally intelligent and non-aggressive. They are big dogs, measuring inches and weighing 80 to pounds. They are slow maturing and will only stop growing somewhere between two and three years old. Daschunds Sausage dogs come in many shapes and sizes, but all have distinctive long bodies with short legs. The standard size is 14 to 19 inches and can weigh between 12 and 30 pounds. They grow up fast and will reach their full size at around eight months. Pembroke Welsh Corgis These little herders from Wales will measure between 10 and 12 inches and weigh between 25 and 30 pounds. Most will be pretty much their full size by one year of age, but they may have additional growth spurts until they are as old as three. Australian Shepherds These intelligent working dogs from California despite the name measure 18 to 23 inches and weigh between 35 and 70 pounds. They will reach their full size at around 16 months of age. Yorkshire Terriers Yorkshire terriers are one of the smallest dog breeds measuring just inches and weighing just pounds. They stick to the height-related growth rules and will stop growing when they are only months old. Great Danes Great Danes are great in terms of both their size and their personality. These German kings and queens grow to between 28 and 35 inches and weigh between and pounds. They will keep growing until at least 18 months, and will probably be full size before two years. Boxers Boxers are another German dog of medium to large size. They grow to between 21 and 24 inches tall and weigh pounds. They will reach their full height somewhere between 18 and 24 months old. Siberian Huskies These dogs were bred to pull sleds in cold places, but their cute wolf look makes them popular household pets. They grow to inches tall and weigh 35 to 60 pounds. They will reach their full size at 15 months of age. Cavalier King James Spaniels These dogs can look a bit bigger than they are thanks to their flowing locks. They will reach between 12 and 13 inches tall and weigh pounds. They will reach their full size at around 18 months. Doberman Pinschers Regular Doberman pinschers are quite large dogs, measuring inches and weighing pounds. They will reach their full height at around one year old but will continue to fill out noticeably until around two years old. Shih Tzu This Asian toy dog breed from Tibet measures between 8 and 11 inches and weighs pounds. They will be their full adult size by the time they are about 10 months old. Pomeranians Fluffy Pomeranians are inches tall and weigh just pounds under all that hair. Most will reach their full size at six or seven months old. English Mastiffs English mastiffs are big dogs , measuring around inches and weighing up to pounds. They will only reach their full size at about three, but growth slows significantly around the one year mark. Chihuahuas Another of the toy breeds, Chihuahuas, hailing from Mexico, measure inches and weigh between 4 and 6 pounds. They will reach their full diminutive height by around 9 months of age. Basset Hounds The short legs of a basset hound mean that they only grow to about inches, but they can weigh as much as 75 pounds. Maltese These white balls of love and fur measure inches tall and weigh pounds under all that hair. They will reach their complete size at months old. Dalmations Dalmations are known for their distinctive spots, but they are also strong and intelligent dogs. They reach between 19 and 23 inches and have an athletic physique of pounds. Greyhounds There is more to these spindly littler racers than it seems. They grow to between 27 and 30 inches and weigh pounds. They will reach their full racing height at months old. Mixed breed dogs are likely to reach full size sometimes between the time period for their two purebred parent breeds. If your dog is not on the list, you can compare them with dogs of a similar size for a general guide. The best thing to look at as a guide is their paws. Look at the size of paws of similar dogs to help you determine whether they are the right proportions for your pup. If you are desperate to know how big your dog will be, you can also do a dog DNA test that can help you narrow down the possibilities. Factors That Influence The Size Of Your Dog While breed and genetic hereditary factors are the most important factors when it comes to the size of your dog, there are a few lifestyle factors that may result in your pup being bigger or smaller as well. Worm Infections If your puppy becomes infected by hookworms or roundworms as a puppy, this can stunt their growth. The worms steal calories and nutrition from your dog, which means that it is unable to grow the way that it should. Worm infestations are more common than many people imagine, as they are easily picked up in the environment. Poor coat quality, potbelly, and regular diarrhea are all signs that they may have worms. Other puppy diseases such as Parvo can also stunt their growth. Most dogs are vaccinated against Parvo, but it can be a problem when they have not yet been vaccinated. Prioritize food that is rich in protein and healthy fats, and keep carbohydrate intake under control to ensure they can reach their full size in top health. Spaying Or Neutering While many dog owners will tell you that spaying or neutering their dog seems to have stunted their growth, the evidence is anecdotal. In studies that have been run, it seems to have a negligible effect. It is often a good idea to delay spaying female dogs until they are fully grown, rather than at around six months, but this is to prevent related cancer risks as opposed to size considerations. Excessive Exercise Exercising your puppy too much can be detrimental to their growth. While it may not stunt their overall growth, it can cause different parts of their body to grow at different speeds. This can lead to malformations such as elbow and hip dysplasia. This is most common in larger dogs since the puppies have lots of energy to burn off, but as a general rule, until your dog is fully grown you should exercise them for five minutes per day for each month of their life. If your dog is six months old, then, they need just half an hour of exercise a day. If they are still growing at one year, they will need just 60 minutes, rather than the 90 minutes they will want when they are a full-grown dog. You can read more about the right way to exercise Labrador puppies here. FAQs Do dogs double in size from six months? No, at six months old most small dogs will be almost fully grown. Larger dogs, on the other hand, are likely to be about two-thirds of their adult weight at six months. Only very large breeds such as Rottweilers and Great Danes are likely to still be half their adult size at six months. Do the back legs of puppies grow faster? It is true that not every part of your dog will grow at the same pace, and it is not unusual for them to be a bit disproportional while they are growing. Puppies often have legs that are too long for their body. It can happen that their hind legs grow faster than their front legs, but this is not an overly common phenomenon. Do dogs have growth spurts? Rather, they have short rapid growth spurts that make it seem like they grew an inch overnight. They also tend to put on a bit of weight and then lean out as their body goes through its quick growth stage. Their appetite will also increase before a big growth period. If you are worried that your puppy is not growing at a normal rate, you should speak to your vet to see if there really is something wrong. Slower growth could be normal for them. If you want to give your dog the best chance to reach their full size, focus on good nutrition. The Verdict As your adorable puppy seems to just keep getting bigger each day, it is normal to ask yourself when exactly they will stop growing. How long it takes dogs to reach their full size depends significantly on their breed, so there is no single rule for all dogs. As a general guideline, vets will tell you that small dogs grow quickly and will reach their full size between six months and one year. Larger dogs grow more slowly and can take up to two years to fully grow, but there are many exceptions to the rule. It is best to research your breed and see what is normal for them. If you have a mixed breed, their age will sit somewhere between the ages of their two parent breeds. In terms of skeletal growth, paws are generally the thing that the rest of the body is catching up with, though they might still fill out. Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article. Labrador Retriever Puppy Growth Chart and Development with Pictures Large breed dogs, like Labs, gain weight and grow rather rapidly in their first year. They also develop certain skills at approximately the same time. Lab puppies at this age are entirely dependent on their mother. They are born without teeth, vision, or hearing. The mother Lab will also stimulate them to eliminate and eat their waste to keep her nesting area clean. Most Lab puppies will have their eyes opened at 2 weeks of age, and their ears will begin to open around this time too. This period can be called the awakening of senses, as they are growing to be more conscious and inquisitive. Try to spend some time with each puppy daily, so they get used to being handled. They should not be removed from their litter for more than 10 minutes at a time as this could cause them to miss out on important life lessons. Mama dogs will teach her pups some discipline and dogs that are taken from their mom before this age often suffers from behavioral issues. You should handle them often and can begin basic training. Treat your puppy gently, with no harsh discipline. Your 8-week-old Lab puppy will be able to start sleeping through the night and have better control over its bowel movements. Potty training can be introduced at this age, but you should avoid bringing them to crowded places. Most puppies get their first vaccination before heading to their new homes. You should keep your new puppy away from other dogs until they complete their vaccinations to prevent them from contracting infectious diseases like distemper or parvovirus. Lab puppies eating their dog food At 2 months, Lab puppies should be fed 4 small meals a day. Knowing how much to feed them is key. Your Lab puppy will begin to test you in order to figure out what their position is in the family. Labrador Retriever puppies at 3 months might ignore commands they are familiar with. Some dogs might start nipping. To combat this, direct them to chew appropriate toys instead. Be patient with them and keep reinforcing positive behavior because they will grow out of it soon enough. They are still establishing their role in the pack and might assert their dominance over little children or pets. You can start incorporating other activities like obedience or agility to divert their attention and help them understand their role in the family better. Some dogs will go through another fearful stage at this age. You can help them through it by desensitizing them and being kind and understanding. They are still puppies at this age, after all. They should not be forced to face their fears in hopes they will get used to it. Appropriate exposure with lots of praise, attention, and treats will do the trick. They will have grown into the dog they are meant to be and will have a consistent personality. They should also have settled into a routine and know their place in the family. Following a UK study, Labs grow into their adult weight by their 1-year-old birthday. Mentally, Labradors will stay a puppy till they are 2 or 3 years old, but some never really do grow up. When Do Labs Stop Growing? Lab puppies generally gain 2 lbs 1 kg a week from birth until they are 6 months old. After that, their weight gain tapers off slowly. Most people think that dogs mature at the same age, but small dogs like a Terrier or a Pomeranian might reach adulthood at 9 months of age whereas a Great Dane might fully mature at 3 years of age. It has been noted that they reach their full height at 1 year of age, and their adult weight at 2 years of age. How to weigh a Labrador dog? Weighing your dog is a good way to keep track of its growth. A less strenuous and stressful way to weigh your dog would be to buy a weighing scale for dogs and weigh them regularly. You can incorporate this into your dog training and reward them every time they stay still on a scale. There are reasonably priced pet scales on Amazon but if you do not have a budget for a dog weighing machine, you can get your dog weighed at the vet. This is because muscle weighs more than fat. A chubby-looking Labrador might have the same weight as a lean and strong Lab. Testing Physical Appearance There is a system called BCS or Body Condition Scoring that allows owners and health providers to assess whether their dog is at a healthy weight from a glance. There are 9 levels, with the 1st level representing extreme emaciation, level 5 being optimally fit, and level 9 being life-threateningly obese. However, if they are outside of that spectrum, you might want to consider seeing a specialist as your dog might have some underlying health issues. It can also cause lots of health problems such as joint problems, respiratory or heart diseases, and even cancer. The bad news is that Labradors are prone to obesity due to their genetics. A large portion of the Labrador population has a malfunctioning POMC gene that stops them from being full. Even without the condition, Labs are notoriously greedy! Look at Midnight eating in her dreams: Hyperthyroidism and Insulinoma are disorders that can cause unexplainable weight gain. How to help your Labrador achieve a healthy weight? If they are suffering from certain disorders, you will need to treat them first. If they are simply being fed too much, remove any excess calories from their diet by cutting down treats including table scraps! You can also encourage them to move more through exercise, play, or work. Being too thin is also unhealthy, especially if your puppy is still growing. Weight loss or not being able to gain weight can be caused by worms, illness, or a lack of calories. Active dogs will need to be fed more than those that lead sedentary lifestyles. What you can do is increase their intake and monitor their growth rate. Another commonly asked question is when to fix their male or female Labradors. The general consensus is that you should fix your dog around 6 months, but there are new studies to suggest that early neutering might create more problems for your dog. Another specialized study suggests pet owners to neuter or spay after 37 weeks. This prevents excessive growth that can aggravate hip or joint problems. Will my Lab still grow after being neutered? Depending on when your dog is neutered. If it is neutered after sexual maturity, it will most likely have already reached its adult size and will not grow any taller. However, most neutered pets gain weight much more easily due to a decrease in sex hormones. This will cause their metabolic rate to slow down so you should adjust their diet accordingly. Differences between variations of Labrador Retrievers English Labs are show dogs that are bred to be more heavyset. Therefore, they can be slightly on the heavy side. As for American or working dogs, they are generally more athletic and lighter. Gender also plays a role in their weight, with females nearing the lighter end of the spectrum and males being on the heavier side. Chocolate Labs and White Labs are usually bred for the show ring. It is entirely possible to have an English Fox Red and vice versa for all other colors. Leading a healthy lifestyle will keep your pup healthy. Further reading: Additional puppy growth chart guides. When do labs Stop Growing? Labs need to fill out more than smaller breeds as they are medium to large-sized dogs. Usually, an average Lab will be at full height and weight by their first birthday. Is Your Labrador Retriever Healthy? Labrador Retrievers are the perfect family pet. Not only are Labs wonderful companions, but their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and love for life make them ideal members of any household. The best way to guarantee that happiness? Preventative care! This condition can cause pain and make it difficult for your pup to move freely. Due to CHD, they may also develop arthritis in the hip area as they age. Some dogs with CHD have normal hips as puppies, but they can develop joint instability later in life. Unfortunately, CHD affects medium to large dog breeds, with the Lab amongst those dogs with a higher chance of developing this condition. Recognizing the early signs of this progressive disease will help you get treatment for your dog so he has an active life filled with joy instead of pain or discomfort. An old Labrador Retriever is especially prone to developing this disease. Osteoarthritis, or Degenerative Joint Disease DJD , is a progressive inflammation of the joints caused by deterioration and breakdown in cartilage. This action leads to an increase in friction, which causes significant pain for dogs. In cases of osteoarthritis, this cartilage cushion begins to break down because of factors such as age or injury. If a dog has canine atopic dermatitis, the immune system reacts too strongly to common environmental allergens absorbed through the skin, such as mold spores and grass. A dog with atopic dermatitis will typically show signs and symptoms between 3 months to 6 years of age. Labrador Retrievers are amongst the most common dog breeds to develop food and skin allergies. Gastric Distention and Volvulus Bloat Canine bloat , or gastric distention and volvulus GDV , is a condition where the stomach swells abnormally. Bloat is a serious condition that requires immediate emergency care. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can bloat, but some breeds are more susceptible than others. Unfortunately, Labradors are at the top of the list for susceptibility to this condition. The causes of bloat in Labs and other dogs are unknown, but there is likely a genetic element. Dogs who recover from bloating should never be used as breeding stock again. Got a Lab? Get Pet Insurance Coverage You love your dog like a child, but you cannot control what your puppy is dealt with in the genetics department. Health struggles can affect your Labrador Retriever, and his genes will determine what medical conditions or diseases he develops. What if cancer happens? What else might go wrong with your dog in an emergency that will require immediate attention? As a dog owner, you want to make sure that your Lab pup has the best chance possible at living a healthy and happy life. A pet insurance policy will handle any medical issue or expense which may come your way, which is a significant help, especially with how expensive veterinary bills can get. Get insurance quotes today and see for yourself how much better life will be with this coverage. They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below! Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. 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good names for boxer puppies - Should an American Bulldog Mix take after their American Bulldog parent, they will be a large and lovable dog that is affectionate to their families. American Bulldogs tend to have a gentle nature, a sweet disposition, and a fun-loving, playful personality and you can expect something similar in an American Bulldog Mix. American Bulldogs are known for being absolute sweethearts and quintessential family dogs. They tend to love children and get along well with other dogs in the household. They also thrive on affection, bond strongly with their owners, and absolutely adore spending time with their families. Since they can be initially wary of strangers and can have a high prey drive, socialization early and often is important. You should be able to expect something similar in an American Bulldog Mix. Talking to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix and meeting the mother dog can give you a better idea of what temperament to expect in an American Bulldog Mix. The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed may affect this for an American Bulldog Mix, but you still want to be prepared for a moderately adaptable dog in case they take after their American Bulldog parent. Apartment living could be an option, but you would need to dedicate a lot of time daily to making sure they get the attention and exercise they need to be happy. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health conditions of one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. From the American Bulldog side, potential health conditions include eye-related issues, thyroid disorders, hip dysplasia, kidney issues, bone cancer, and elbow dysplasia. Knowing more about the other parent breed can give you a better idea of what to be aware of in an American Bulldog Mix. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing issues to puppies, so make sure you ask about the genetic and health history of both of the parent breeds. Because they are highly intelligent and eager to please their owners, American Bulldogs are highly trainable dogs that are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. But, the other parent breed could affect the trainability of an American Bulldog Mix, so you still want to ask the breeder about them. An American Bulldog Mix can inherit a coat similar to one parent breed or one that is a blend of both. But, the other parent breed could affect how much grooming your American Bulldog Mix needs. Also, practicing good dental care for dogs can help prevent dental diseases like gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. American Bulldogs are high-energy dogs that are athletic and strong. They need daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity. The other parent breed could affect how much exercise your American Bulldog Mix needs to be happy and healthy, but you will still want to be prepared to handle a high-energy dog. Fully-grown American Bulldogs tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed could have a big effect on the size of your American Bulldog Mix. By talking to the breeder about the other parent breed and meeting the mother dog, you can get a better idea of what size to expect as your American Bulldog Mix puppy grows. American Bulldogs tend to live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an American Bulldog Mix. Featured American Bulldog Mix Article. Thank you for considering rescue. Before we begin, please know that the majority of our adoptable animals never make it to our website as our adoption coordinators are working behind the scenes with our approved adopters. Therefore, the website does not reflect ALL the animals we have in our care that are available for adoption. Please understand that if you do select a specific dog, your application may not be the only one received for that pup but again, our adoption coordinator will work to find the best pup for you. Our placement process is very fluid and availability can change quickly. After you submit your application, you will hear back within 72 hours from a member of our adoption team. We are a volunteer-based organization and appreciate your patience. In the interim, do not fret, applications are processed in the order they are received. You have not lost your place in the queue. If multiple applications were submitted for the same dog or puppy, the first application in is the first application to be considered for that pup. When you adopt you save 2 lives! We look forward to welcoming you into the Sweet Paws Rescue family. A post shared by Camila Cristina bigbabyhaze Life Expectancy Since they are a medium-sized dog, they do have a longer life expectancy compared to a large dog. Hopefully, your mix will live a healthy life up to at least 12 years or more. As mentioned, they can be wary of new faces and strange dogs, but once trust is gained, you have a lifelong friend. They will still have a natural tendency to be protective of their tribe, but most dogs have this trait. English Pitbulls are confident and brave, which can be negative or positive in certain situations. But you will be hard-pressed to find another mix that is more affectionate and loving. If you have kids, they will be like a sibling, as these dogs love to play for hours on end. This mix is fairly easy to train since they are smart and eager to please. Just remember that they respond better to positive reinforcement rather than negative. If you are unsure of the best way to train your English Bulldog and Pitbull mix, consult a certified trainer who has dealt with this mix before to help you and your dog succeed. Generally speaking, Bulldogs have a low to moderate energy level, while Pitbulls are high-energy dogs, so you could have a dog who is in-between or just low or high. You will want to provide well-rounded nutrition, no matter the level of their activity. If you have a high-energy dog, they will need more food throughout the day. High-quality dog food that provides all the needed nutrients is the best to feed your English Bulldog Pitbull mix. Speak with your veterinarian to make sure your dog is receiving the proper nutrition to live a healthy life. Moderate exercise is best to keep your dog trim and fit, but if your dog shows signs of boredom, such as chewing or adopting other bad behaviors, you may need to up your exercise game. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Taking time to train your dog and play will make for a happier and healthier pet. They want to be part of the family and will thrive when involved with activities that include everyone. Use a soft brush on their coat a couple of times per week to keep the fur healthy. Regular grooming appointments will help ensure that you can keep your dog looking their best. Getting regular vet check-ups is an important part of keeping your dog healthy and ensuring that they have a long life. Minor Conditions. At Keystone Puppies, you will be working with professional, compassionate breeders who take great pride in producing happy healthy puppies for adoption that make the best fur-ever friends! No problem! Our Keystone Puppies Delivery Specialists can help! Don't let your dream puppy for sale slip through your fingers just because he lives so far away! Delivery Process Help Stop Puppy Mills We at Keystone Puppies have a zero tolerance toward puppy mills and any substandard or inhumane breeding practices. From the no-hassle health guarantees on all puppies for sale — to holding our accredited breeders to the highest standard — we put you and your new dog first. This doggie dedication starts at home, as every team member of our puppy adoption agency has at least one four-legged friend of their own. We know what dogs need to be able to fall in love with their fur-ever family right away and we understand what matters most to puppy parents. I named him Gunner. I was very impressed with all the puppies and with both the parents! All the dogs are clean and well kept and friendly and very good looking! I Love my Gunner so much!! Thank You! The Boxer Pitbull dog is a large dog with a high energy level. You can expect them to run around the vicinity or getting your attention to play fetch. The Boxer Pitbull Mix dogs need little attention in the grooming department. They have a short and smooth coat which is often tidy on its own. The Pitbull Boxer Mix can be an excellent watchdog for your household. They become wary of suspicious people and actions. You will need to divide the amount of food into two meals. You may adjust the amount based on the level of physical activity. The Pitbull Husky Mix dogs may be susceptible to allergies, heart diseases, and eye disorders. You may contact breed-specific shelters or professional breeders who can assist you with adopting a Husky Pitbull Mix pup. It is taller than the Corgi but heavier. The additional weight of this mixed breed may put the dog at risk for joint problems like hip dysplasia. The Pitbull Corgi Mix has a short coat that you will need to brush at least once per week. The Corgi Pitbull Mix dogs inherited the eagerness to please and affectionate nature of their parent breeds. The German Shepherd breed was created to become herding and service dogs in the European area. The Pitbull breed came from England, Scotland, and Ireland. They functioned as hunters. You need to be careful in engaging the Pitbull German Shepherd Mix dogs in physical activity due to health reasons. I encourage daily walks and off-leash exercises for this mixed breed. The German Shepherd Pitbull Mix pups are moderate shedders. You need to brush their coat for two to four times per week. You should restrict fatty food and excess treats. A healthy diet will protect them against infection and other diseases. The Pitbull Beagle Mix dog lives up to 15 years. They can develop ear infections, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. You should do thorough research on the available and qualified breeders near you. Also, you can search for this pup in rescue shelters. The Bullmastiff Pitbull Mix dogs are gentle and loving dogs. They love spending time outdoors with their owners. The Pitbull Bullmastiff Mix dogs have an intense protectiveness for their family members. You should give a bath to your dog when it is visibly dirty. You should provide a regular grooming regimen to keep the coat shiny and the skin moist. The Bullmastiff Pitbull Mix dogs have a moderate need for exercise. You should avoid overexertion. The Pitbull breed hailed from England, Scotland, and Ireland as hunters. The Labrador Pitbull Mix dogs are friendly. They also want to chew things often. Early socialization is a vital step to ensure the safe interaction of your family and the Pitbull Labrador Mix. The amount of food will depend on the size, weight, age, and level of physical activity. You should remember to keep freshwater accessible for the pup at all times. The coat of the Chihuahua Pitbull Mix may be medium-length or longer. The Pitbull Chihuahua Mix dog needs a lot of exercise. You may walk the dog to a dog park and let it have various encounters with different dogs. To find a reputable breeder of the Chihuahua Pitbull Mix, you may ask for referrals from a local veterinarian and breed club officers. You should consider joining a training class to lessen the aggressiveness of the mixed breed. You need to keep in mind that nutrition will help your dog live its best life. You should give food with high nutritional value to the Pitbull Chow Chow Mix dog. The Chow Chow Pitbull Mix dog is more suitable for open-spaced living rather than an apartment. It needs about 30 minutes of exercise daily. You can mix some bones in its food for chewing. You should consult a veterinarian when you see signs of malnutrition. The Pitbull Border Collie Mix dogs can have intense herding instincts and prey-oriented behaviors. The Pitbull Border Collie Mix dogs have a high level of intelligence. It is crucial to prevent boredom while caring for this mixed breed. The Border Collie Mix breed is healthy overall. You should try to avoid allergens that may cause allergies for the dog. The Pitbull breed worked for the people in England and Scotland. You need to engage Pitbull Australian Shepherd Mix in various physical and mental activities. Food-dispensing toys are excellent stimulators for the mind. You could visit a rescue shelter to find this mixed breed. There are also reliable breeders with clean records of the parent breeds. They are not violent unless provoked. They enjoy spending time while playing. You may let them play with a softball or other chewing toys. You should be aware of the possible health problems you may encounter with the Pitbull Dachshund Mix. These dogs may have epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and eye disorders. The coat of the Dachshund Pitbull Mix dogs may be short or medium in length. You should brush the coat with a toothed comb to keep its shine and keep it healthy. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Its body build is prone to develop patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. Other health concerns for the Pitbull Pug Mix include encephalitis, allergies, and eye problems. The Pug Pitbull Mix dogs have a moderate activity level. The exercise will keep the dog from doing destructive and mischievous behaviors. You could allow them to run around your fenced-in yard or take them out for a brisk walk. Two cups of high-quality dry food will contribute to the better health of the adult Pitbull Pug Mix dog. However, knowing the details about its parent breeds is helpful in predicting its characteristics. The Cocker Spaniel dogs came from Spain. There were groups of companion dogs and hunting dogs. They were adept in hunting woodcock. The Pitbull breed included working dogs in England. The Pitbull Cocker Spaniel dogs will lighten the house with its cheerful attitude and friendliness. The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix dogs are fond of snuggling on the couch and playing with little kids. The Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix is a moderate shedder. You can use a pin brush to keep the coat moist and shiny. They can follow short commands promptly. Proper training is necessary for this mixed breed to avoid future conflicts with neighbors and other animals. You should also expose the Pitbull American Bulldog to different surroundings and people. The amount of food the dog needs will depend on the size, age, weight, and physical activity level of the American Bulldog Pitbull Mix. The Pitbull American Pitbull Mix dogs need little grooming. You can give them occasional baths to remove dirt and bad odor. The Cane Corso Pitbull Mix dogs may look intimidating and possess some aggressive traits. The Cane Corso Pitbull Mix dog is healthier than the purebred parent breeds. They might be at risk for hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, allergies, and heart diseases. You should look for responsible and reliable breeders for this mixed breed. They should have proof of health clearance. However, I can tell you about the historical data of its parent breeds. The Shar-Pei breed originated from southern China. They were reared as guardians and hunters. The Pitbull dogs were hunters for the people of Scotland, Ireland, and England. The Pitbull Shar-Pei Mix dogs are low to moderate shedders. You will need to brush their coats weekly to remove the scattered fur in your house. The Shar-Pei Mix dogs have a minimum requirement of one hour of exercise per day. The dog will enjoy playing catch, fly ball, and weight pulling activities. These traits contribute to the ease of training for this mixed breed. You should be aware that the Pitbull Akita Mix may develop progressive retinal atrophy, heart diseases, and hip dysplasia. The incidence of illnesses increases with advanced age. If you want to adopt or buy this mixed breed, be sure to contact reliable breeders or ask recommendations from your local veterinarian. Reliable sources of the Akita Pitbull Mix puppies will provide health clearance of the parent breeds. They enjoy spending their energy while playing with their family. They can also become working dogs on farms. The Pitbull Blue Heeler Mix dogs have plenty of endurance and high levels of energy. The suggested activities for this mixed breed include running, playing catch, and walking. I recommend giving them food three times per day. The amount of food will depend on its weight and level of physical activity. This mixed breed has a yearning to belong and to accompany someone. You should spend time together with this dog often. The health of the Pitbull English Bulldog Mix dogs may be an issue. They could develop hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and allergies. The English Bulldog Pitbull Mix may shed minimally to moderately. They will need a brushing of the coat for one or two times per week. You may give occasional baths for two or three times per month. Proper training could tame their aggressiveness. Another technique is crossing the Pitbulls with a breed that has a more amiable disposition such as the Golden Retrievers. The combination of the traits of the parent breeds makes it an excellent family and companion dog. The daily physical activity will protect the dog from several diseases. You should provide a healthy exercise regimen with your surroundings. You should employ regular brushing for this Pitbull mix breed. The Great Pyrenees Pitbull Mix dogs may be susceptible to develop cerebellar ataxia, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation. You should be aware of the warning signs of these disorders to aid for early detection. You may subject the dog to chest x-rays, bone biopsy, and blood analysis to aid for diagnosis. The Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mix dogs have a double coat. You should comb and brush the coat every two days. This grooming step will prevent the formation of mats. I can share some information about the traits and characteristics of its parent breeds. The Rhodesian Ridgeback hailed from Africa. They were house guardians and excellent hunters. The food requirement of the Pitbull Rhodesian Ridgeback may vary with age, size, and level of physical activity. You should be alert for signs and symptoms of malnutrition. Both of its parent breeds may put the offspring at risk for heart diseases, hypothyroidism, dermoid sinus, and elbow dysplasia. Early socialization and training provide avenues for learning and cultivating discipline for this mixed breed. The Pitbull French Bulldog may have a fluctuating interest in physical activity. It has a moderate level of energy. You can engage the dog into leisure walking around the neighborhood. Adopting the Pitbull French Bulldog Mix can be done by looking into breed-specific rescue shelters or purchasing from reliable breeders near your area. It has a moderate hunting drive. Both of its parent breeds have an innate loyalty and affection for the family members. The Pitbull Catahoula Mix dogs prefer to move and run around. They have a high energy level. You may opt to attend training. The Catahoula Pitbull Mix are receptive to positive reinforcement. They are intelligent and eager to please. The Pitbull Catahoula Mix dog has a short coat with low potential of shedding. The Shih Tzu used to be a companion only in China. They used to be workers for the people there. Both of the parent breeds are friendly to kids and other trustworthy strangers. Their socialization will improve as time passes. The Pitbull and Shih Tzu dogs have a high potential for mouthiness. They will nip and chew on things or people nearby. You will need to address the mouthiness by giving chew toys and playing catch with treats. You need to spend time with this dog to tame its possible aggressiveness. The bigger gene pool will decrease the possibility of diseases. You can never be too cautious when it comes to monitoring possible health complications. The Pitbull Doberman Mix may develop cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis, hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, and osteosarcoma. The grooming of this mixed breed is straightforward. You should brush the coat once a week. This brushing regimen will also help in fostering a stronger bond with your dog. Skin products for bathing should be approved by the veterinarian because some Pitbull may be allergic to certain bath products. The Doberman Pitbull Mix dogs have high energy levels. You should not keep them in a leash. You should help the dog become familiar with the neighborhood. I will impart some information regarding its parent breeds. The Pitbull was known as a protective and strong breed. They were created in England. Some of the early dogs were involved in dog-fighting. The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in the early s. The Newfoundland dogs came from Canada. They helped fishermen in the area. There are discrepancies about the origin of this breed. The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in .You will need proper nutrition to achieve the optimum health of the Pitbull Newfoundland. Four to five cups of high-quality food per day is the recommendation for the adult dog. The diet should include at least 12 percent fat and 22 percent protein. The mixed breed may inherit the water-resistant double coat of its Newfoundland parent breed. This type of coat requires more frequent brushing, about two to three times per week. Its double coat will trap dirt, leaves, and mud. The dog should be washed when they are visibly dirty and feeling itchy.