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I wanted to let you know Flash is doing well. Flash is sleeping and Rahul is happy. Her first night she cried some. I knew it was going to be a bit of an adjustment for her to her new surroundings and family. I slept downstairs on my couch and Maizie slept right next to me all night. She is such a good girl. He gained 1. He is such a sweet little guy and learns quickly. He loves Molly and she has been so tolerant of him. I love when they curl up together. He sleeps with Molly and us every night. Owen understands when it gets dark, play time is over. He has so much energy now he runs around like crazy. You are the best breeder ever! He peed and pooped outside. He is such a special boy! Thank you so much! Jennifer, Danville, CA He loves hanging out with us in our office and in the backyard. He loves water! She is really well behaved and her vet visit went great. She has gained over 2 lbs since her first vet visit. She is precious. We love him so much. He is very smart, loves making friends with other dogs, and is the best cuddler ever! Kim, Durham, NH Java is just chilling at home. He went to the vet and everything is great! Wendy, Tewksbury, MA Jackson is doing great! Buddy has acclimated well. He loves playing with his toys and taking naps. He put himself to bed in his crate last night. He knows we are his people and we feel very lucky. He knows his name and gets along great with our other dog Tucker and fits right in with our cats. Becky, Laconia, NH Kenai is doing great!!! We are so happy! She is having fun chasing her big brother Brody all over and is eating and sleeping well. She is just a joy. We went to the vet yesterday and everything is great! He adores the water and is an excellent swimmer. We love him so much! He has mastered sleeping in his crate at night and loose leash walking. I love being a Lab dad again! Thank you for raising such good pups! He loves everyone and is so darn cute. He is such a good boy and I am glad I have him. I am so glad I found a wonderful breeder like you who was so good to him for the first 8 weeks. You guys are wonderful! He and the cat are slowly warming up to each other. He is doing really well with potty training and he puts himself in his crate for naps and at bedtime. He is doing great with the crate although his favorite thing is to snuggle and sleep with his boys! She also said he looks absolutely healthy! Steph Topsham, ME He has definitely stolen our hearts. Thank you. Alex, Salem, NH Things are going great here. Brianna, Bedford, MA Thank you so much. We love him lots. Art, Chelmsford, MA Floki is settling into a fantastic routine and is such a wonderful puppy. Ann, Lynnfield, MA Murphy is very smart and is fitting right in. He is awesome. He is doing great and growing a lot. Thank you for everything. Thank you for all your hard work during those first 8 weeks after his birth. It really shines through in how he presently acts. The work you do with your dogs and pups is to be commended. It makes the transition very easy. We love her so much. Jen, Langdon, NH He loves being home and playing. We are in love. Thank you more than you know. We feel so blessed to have met such a wonderful breeder and have Oakley in our lives. April, Annandale, NJ. Contact Welcome Located in New Hampshire, we are a small family-owned kennel and have been breeding Labrador Retrievers for over 20 years. Our kids are now grown and gone and we have migrated back north to scenic Warner, New Hampshire to build our forever spot here for ourselves and the dogs. We raise sound English-style Labrador Retrievers. Before we consider a dog as breeding or stud quality, they are judged for temperament and conformation and must pass OFA hip and elbow clearances and eye clearances. Our Labradors are part of our family; we raise our puppies in our custom whelping room that is sanitary and climate-controlled. The room has gentle music playing and a bit of traffic every once in a while to show off the new additions when it is safe for visiting. We do our best to place our puppies in a home that best suits each puppy by conducting temperament screening and aptitude tests. We spend an enormous amount of time with these puppies and have had great success in evaluating the "right fit" of puppy to family. Goals My goal as a breeder is to produce a sound quality Labrador Retriever as close to the AKC standard to my liking. Every breeder has a preference to coat, size, movement, attitude, face and tail. The most important thing to remember in breeding is to keep in mind the purpose of the dog and ensure that they are physically able to get the job done for which they were bred. Our Boys.

You can use the information o.Show more How much grooming does a Labrador need? Although Labradors have short fur, they do shed so you'll need to groom your Labrador occasionally. To help your dog feel comfortable with handling and grooming, introduce it in a positive way, one step at a.Show more What size crate do you need for a Labrador? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully stretched out.To find out more about potential health issues f.Show more Labrador crossbreeds One popular Labrador crossbreed is the Labradoodle. This is a mix between a Labrador and a Poodle and Labradoodle colours include silver, cream, black and chocolate. Labradoodle size is typically large. Are Labradors easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. So, every Labrador temperament is different. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develo.Show more Are Labradors good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. A loving forever home with a secure fence and another dog in the home She wants to be your "All-American Girl! Carrie Underwood is so sweet and adorable. She is a bundle of tender kisses and has energy for days. She has been a great sister to the newest foster puppies that have come and gone, teaching them the art of playing with toys. Carrie's favorite thing to do is play chase with her K9 buddies. She runs fast and does figure 8's around the resident dogs, who don't even try to keep up with her. Her second favorite activity is napping with the resident Labs. She adores the older resident dogs and has learned great napping skills from them. She continues to work on her leash skills. Carrie has been quietly working on coming out of her shell and has undergone a transformation since arriving at her foster. She loves to curl up in the lap of her FM for naps and bedtime snuggles. She still has her moments of shyness around Foster Dad, but will now come voluntarily to the couch to sit beside him for attention. She's definitely gained lots of confidence. Carrie will need a home with another dog, preferably one who enjoys the same activity level. Carrie still has some shy moments but she is ready for her furever home, and she will steal the heart of anyone who wants to add a sweet yet energetic member to their family. Thank you to the following generous donors currently supporting Carrie's care: Amanda S. Vocality level 4 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament Few breeds so richly deserve their popularity as does the Labrador Retriever. When trained, the breed is obedient and amiable and tolerates the antics of children, other dogs, and other pets. The Lab is a calm house dog, playful yard dog, and intense field dog, all on the same day. Labs are eager to please, enjoys learning, and excel in obedience. It is a powerful breed that loves to swim and retrieve. Labradors need daily physical and mental challenges to keep occupied. A bored Lab can get into trouble! Upkeep Labradors are active and sociable dogs. They need daily exercise, preferably in the form of retrieving and swimming. Owners with swimming pools either must fence them out or be prepared to share the pool with dogs. The Lab coat sheds water easily. Weekly brushing is needed to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: CHD, elbow dysplasia, OCD, obesity, patellar luxation Minor concerns: cataract, CPRA, hot spots, retinal dysplasia, hypothyroidism Occasionally seen: diabetes, entropion, distichiasis, tricuspid valve dysplasia, centronuclear myopathy, exercise-induced collapse Suggested tests: hip, elbow, eye, exercise-induced collapse DNA , centronuclear myopathy , knee Life span: 10—12 years History The original Labradors were all-purpose water dogs originating in Newfoundland, not Labrador. Not only did the breed not originate in Labrador, but it also was not originally called the Labrador Retriever. These dogs—medium-sized black dogs with close hair—not only retrieved game but also retrieved fish, pulled small fishing boats through icy water and helped the fisherman in any task involving swimming. Eventually, the breed died out in Newfoundland in large part because of a heavy dog tax. However, a core of Labradors had been taken to England in the early s, and it is from these dogs, along with crosses to other retrievers, that the breed continued. It was also in England that the breed earned its reputation as an extraordinary retriever of upland game. Initially, black labs were favored over yellow or chocolate colors. By the early s, the other colors had become more accepted. The popularity of this breed has grown steadily until the Labrador Retriever became the most popular breed in America in and remains so today. Related Content.

Is Your American Bulldog Teething? Teething is a process where puppies acquire their first teeth and try these newly acquired baby fangs on anything they could gnaw on. So, to help you out with this, we have prepared several points that you could use to stop your house from looking like it has been ravaged by a hurricane — with teeth. American bulldog puppies usually get all their 28 baby teeth when they reach 8 weeks. By this time, without proper supervision, it may have already massacred your slippers and furniture. This phenomenon occurs because of the discomfort that teething brings and boredom if attention is inadequately provided. What you, the owner, should do is to supplement this teething activity rather than prevent it. Try directing it in positive ways by utilizing toys for your puppies. Toy ropes, tires and other chewables will suffice. Your American bulldog will certainly have its fill. However, be wary of some products that may put your puppies in harm. Try consulting a local veterinarian about safe chewable products for your puppies. Speaking of the vet, you should also make some visits, so as to have some professional monitoring during this crucial phase. If you have kids in your household, warn them of the dangers of playing with your American bulldog in its teething stage. Again, have your kids use toys to play with it. Doing so will also allow your kids to help train your puppies themselves and, at the same time, make a connection with them. It is also recommended to use different kinds of playful activities to divert your American Bulldogs teething phase. This high pitched sound is also produced by its friendly litterbox puppies that experience pain. Last but not the least, you should control the territories your puppies or American bulldog can go to. To keep it away from carpeted areas and furniture, try using a crate to limit its movement. Make sure that the crate is also quite resilient to puppy teeth. Suck it up, endure and try to enjoy this phase with your dog. It certainly would like to enjoy it with you. Good luck. The chewing and gnawing behaviours associated with teething often become difficult for owners. No one wants to see their beloved pet in pain, nor do they want that pet to chew on everything in sight. There are several tricks that will help owners treat their English bulldog's teething behaviour. Teething behaviours last until adult teeth fully grow in, which is typically about 1 year of age. This can be dangerous, if they find toxic things, or damaging, if they chew on furniture, unless their owners give their puppies alternatives. They may also try to nip at hands and feet. English bulldogs, like other puppies, experience teething as they grow, and adult teeth begin to come in. During teething, these puppies are likely to gnaw and chew at anything. Sometimes bleeding may occur around the gums, but is not a problem unless bleeding doesn't stop or seems excessive. When it doubt, consult a veterinarian. Homemade frozen treats can include making chicken soup and freezing it into ice cubes, soaking carrots in water and freezing them and soaking a clean rag and freezing it. English bulldogs experience pain, especially in the gums, while they are teething. Giving puppies frozen treats helps direct chewing behaviours to something productive and the ice helps soothes gum pain. Give your English bulldog a Kong toy filled with peanut butter or cheese to allow him to gnaw safely in the crate. Teach puppies to recognise the command "toy" by saying toy every time you present the puppy with a chew toy. When nipping begins, tuck away hands and say, "Toy," which teaches puppies to go to their toys for chewing, nipping and playing. Our bulldog puppy started losing his baby teeth around the four-month mark. He would bite our hands a lot during this time seeking relief. The same signs they exhibited when their baby teeth came in will likely be exhibited now, including drooling, chewing, pawing at their muzzle and so forth. Occasionally yes. For example, the baby tooth could force the adult tooth to grow in out of alignment with the other teeth. A misaligned tooth can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your bulldog as an adult, especially when eating, and so you should have it extracted as soon as possible by your vet. The easiest way to know this is simply to know exactly when they were born and then count forward week by week to approximate what teething phase they should be in. Also, keep in mind the symptoms and outward signs that we described above. Helpful Tips to Get your Bulldog Puppy Through All their Teething Phases To help bulldog puppies stay as comfortable as possible and help you sleep at night , here are a few tips that you can use to reduce their discomfort during teething. Make chicken or beef broth ice cubes. The flavor will attract them to eat and the cold will soothe their sore mouth Gently rub their gums with your finger while they sit on your lap. This is comforting and soothing at the same time, but beware; those baby teeth can be pretty sharp! A crate might be the answer also. See below. Just the same as with human babies there are plenty of products that you can purchase for your bulldog puppy that can help them get through their teething phases. Some are better than others so ask for recommendations from your veterinarian and read online reviews before purchasing so that you and your bulldog pup get the best, most soothing results. Also keep in mind that there are some things you can make yourself that we already mentioned, like flavored ice cubes, that will work just as well and save you the cost of whichever toy you might buy. The fact is that, during teething, your bulldog pup will want to chew on everything and that can cause problems for both you and your puppy. On the other hand, if you have the luxury of staying home with them through their teething phases then crating them might not be necessary. Some people like to crate their dogs however so the choice to crate or not to crate is strictly up to you and your particular feeling about crating. Within a few weeks, your bulldog will get through both baby teeth teething and adult teeth teething, most likely with only a few days where they are really in pain. If you do that, the memories of all that pain and anxiety will soon be forgotten. We hope you liked this article and that it answered all of your questions about bulldog puppy teething. If you have more questions or would like to leave a comment please do so in the space provided, and best of luck with your new bulldog puppy! Pin29 30 Shares Just like human babies do, French Bulldog puppies will also teethe. I have often compared owning a puppy to having a baby. You have the tantrums, poop, pee, separation anxiety, and more… and that includes having to deal with them going through the French Bulldog puppy teething stages. I remember when we got Claude. During his puppy months I was frequently finding little teeth on the carpet. And, we also had the chewing. In this guide I am going to explain why French Bulldogs teethe, what age it happens and starts, what to expect, how you can stop them chewing your prized possessions, how to help them, and when it stops. But when exactly does teething start and stop? French Bulldog baby teeth start to grow through at the same time their eyes begin to open. Canine teeth at which point they can start on solid foods. Pre-molars stop coming through after about 6 weeks. There will be 28 baby teeth in total and they should fully stop growing through at around 8 weeks of age which is the minimum age you can take a puppy home. They will start to fall out, being pushed out by the adult ones. When do French Bulldogs lose their baby teeth? When do French Bulldogs start teething? French Bulldog puppies will start to teeth at around 3 months of age. They then start to lose their baby and milk teeth which will start to fall out, being pushed out by the adult teeth. The 28 milk teeth will eventually be replaced by 42 adult teeth. French Bulldog puppies stop teething — age 7 to 8 months Want to know when do French Bulldog puppies stop teething? French Bulldog puppies will stop teething at about 7 to 8 months of age. It can sometimes be shorter or longer, but by this stage all their milk teeth should be replaced by adult teeth. How long do French Bulldogs teethe for — between 20 and 24 weeks The entire Frenchie teething process from start to finish will take longer than you might expect. In most cases, they will have stopped teething after 24 weeks, but it can end as early as 20 weeks from the start of the process. To conclude, adult teeth do take longer to grow in than milk baby teeth. The molars are particularly prone to taking longer to push through. However, by around 8 months of age, your French Bulldog puppy should have stopped teething completely and will now be the proud owner of 42 strong and health adult teeth. I have heard of some puppies finishing teething at 4 months, but this is very unusual. They chew because it helps them to relieve the pain in their teeth and gums. Small loose milk teeth: you might find cute little baby teeth stuck in toys or on the floor. These have now made way for the adult teeth to grow through. Perhaps you could be the tooth fairy, and leave a treat under their bed? Blood spots on toys: you might also see small spots of blood left on the toys or furniture they have chewed. Excessive drooling: many Frenchie puppies will also drool when they are teething. If your dog continues to drool after the teething age, it could be the sign of a health problem. French Bulldogs teething ears is common. It happens because they are young so need the calcium in other areas of their developing body, including new teeth. This can make their ears behave very erratically, but they should stand up in the end. Red and inflamed gums: the gums can swell and look angry. This is particularly true once the milk teeth have gone, as the adult teeth will be fighting to push through. Once they do, expect the blood spots. Short attention spans: your Frenchie puppy will be distracted and possibly irritable. Try to soothe them, pay them lots of attention, and use toys to keep them active. Mild fever: just like human babies, puppies can also suffer from mild fevers when teething. The adult tooth will grow through next to the baby tooth and can actually cause an abscess. If it does, consult with your vet. Recommended French Bulldog teething toys One of the best ways you can help your French Bulldog puppy when teething is to give him more toys to play with. It needs to be something tough and rugged to cope with those sharp little teeth and sore gums. Frenchie puppies will chew when teething and need plenty of toys! How stop your puppy chewing in the teething stage When the baby teeth of your Frenchie start to fall out, your puppy will go on a chewing frenzy. It was such a problem with Claude that I had to buy a shoe rack to sit up on a work surface, as any shoes on the floor were fair game for him to destroy. The reason French Bulldog puppies chew when teething is because it helps to relieve the pain they are feeling as the new adult teeth grow through. Just like babies, they want to chew on stuff. You can actually buy a range of teething toys which you can see featured elsewhere on my blog. Handy Hint: Read this guide on how to stop a Frenchie from chewing. It contains 8 tips in more detail which we used with Claude. What you need to do is distract them, give them something else to chew on, or make steps to remove stuff from their reach that they can cause the most damage to. Here are my tips on how to stop your French Bulldog puppy chewing the items you value the most. You can be better off… Puppy proofing your home: just like you would place stair gates in your home with a baby, you can take similar methods with a puppy. The simplest way to do this is by taking anything out of their line of sight they are going to be inclined to chew. Give them frozen carrots or ice cubes: weird I know, but some puppies love to chew on cold frozen items as it will relieve the teething pain. There are also some fruits you can freeze and let them chew on. See my list of fruits Frenchies can eat. Keep the puppy well exercised: dogs that have energy will chew more. To reduce the amount of teething chewing, take your puppy for a couple of walks a day so he can spend some of that energy. Keep the puppy entertained: a bored dog is a chewing dog. During the Frenchie teething stage, play with you pup and keep him distracted from your valuables! We soon stopped doing that when we read how dangerous this can be. The rawhide can cause internal blockages and choke them. The bottom line is; puppies can do a huge amount of damage when teething. Our dining room table legs still have the scars to prove it! You can see what I mean in the photo below. This was what Claude did: You can see the damage caused when Claude was teething. He used to love chewing our dining room table! The positive thing is, as soon as French Bulldog puppies stop teething, a lot of this chewing still stop. Warning: If your French Bulldog continues to chew after the teething stage, it could be the sign of a nutritional problem or even stress. Ailments such as worms and upset stomachs can also lead to this behavioural trait. Related questions Here are a few more questions relating to teeth which will help you during the different stages, and once the adult teeth have grown through. The dental health of your Frenchie is important. This breed can be prone to a variety of health problems , with dental issues being quite near the top of the list. They can develop oral diseases, and at the bare minimum I recommend an annual teeth cleaning visit to the vets. In addition to the once a year cleaning, you can also buy dog-friendly toothpaste and tooth brushes, plus use dental chews to help their teeth stay healthy. How many teeth do French Bulldogs have? French Bulldog puppies have 28 milk teeth which will be lost in the teething stage ages. Once the milk teeth have fallen out, Frenchies will grow 42 adult teeth in their place. What other owners say I am the members on a few Frenchie Facebook groups, and the topic of teething comes up a lot! Here are some questions people have asked, with some of the best responses underneath. We have a toy Kong that he has no interest in, and a Nylabone and some soft toys that he enjoys, but he really wants to chew on fingers, hands and toes mostly. What have others used that helped with the biting and teething phase? Another idea is to soak a wash cloth in broth or just plain water and then freeze it for them. With the Kong toy, you should really put some food in the middle of it too — peanut butter xylitol free is great for this. We also bought special teething treats with clove oil in and puppy teething gel. And I believe ice cubes went down well too. He is 7 months old and is teething like mad. They just love to chew anything and everything. My boy teethed until 7 months. He will be a year old in July and has one more back tooth poking through finally. But it could also be secondary teething. The jaw is growing and the teeth are moving into their final place. With my dogs they tend to want to chew on harder things than when the puppy teeth fell out and new ones broke through. But she constantly bites me, but not other people. Any help would be appreciated! They should never be allowed to put their mouth on you. If allowed to do it, after 3 times it is a habit and much harder to break and they are very stubborn but also very smart and so darn cute. Lots of chew toys. They do learn biting from siblings. Give her time. They are stubborn little monsters at time. He did chew though. We found blood spots, loose teeth, and as you can see from the photo had some damage to deal with! At this time of their dental development, your Frenchie puppy will need your love and support, plenty of chewable toys, patience, and understanding. Losing your temper with a puppy that has chewed something to help reduce his pain will lead to a stressed and fearful dog. This includes regular health checks and a good diet. By: Author Jennifer Seegmiller If you have found yourself the proud new owner or a Bulldog puppy or you have had your pup for a while but are wanting to be sure you are caring for it properly you have come to the right place. Dental hygiene is a very important aspect of care for your spunky, energetic Bulldog! Do Bulldog Have Bad Teeth? Bulldogs generally have more dental problems than other breeds. A build-up of tartar and plaque can cause swollen gums gingivitis. If left untreated this will start to cause tooth decay and infection. It is important to employ proper dental care for your Bulldog starting at a young age. What are some common Bulldog Teeth Problems? If your dog has severe enough dental disease it can cause tooth decay, the gums to recede and the teeth to start falling out. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. We only recommend high-quality products that are used and recommended by real owners. If you use these links to buy something we earn a small commission. You need to take steps right away to fix the problem and get their teeth in healthy working order. Not only is this painful for your Bulldog it can also have an impact on his heart and other organs. We talk more about how to clean your Bulldog teeth below. Bulldog Teeth Falling Out If your Bulldog puppy is losing its teeth there is no need to worry, but if your Bulldog is older than 1 year and losing teeth this can be cause for major concern! If you have a Bulldog rescue that has been poorly taken care of chances are it may have a few missing teeth. That way you only have to put them under general anesthesia once. Another common cause for chattering teeth is periodontal disease. This is a painful condition where the gums become inflamed and bacteria eventually deteriorates the teeth, bones, and tissue. Some dogs may shake, or chatter their teeth when they are feeling anxiety or stress. This might be a coping mechanism for your dog when it is in a new situation or around new people. If your Bulldog is really high energy and gets over-excited whenever he knows there is a treat coming or they see you get out their favorite toy this could induce the teeth chattering or grinding. If your Bulldog is not normally anxious and this is the first time you have noticed chattering teeth then it may be time for a visit with your vet. This could be due to injury or a more serious dental problem. You will want to be very observant of when your dog is doing it. The context could give you some better clues as to why. Bulldog Broken Tooth Broken teeth can be a common occurrence and can be very uncomfortable for your Bulldog. If your Bulldog has had any kind of impact to their mouth, either from being hit by something or from running into something it could cause a broken or chipped tooth. They could also break a tooth by chewing on something too hard. This is why I always tell my student to be careful about what they allow their dogs to chew on. Signs your Bulldog has a chipped or cracked tooth. Eating on one side of his mouth. Not eating hard food. Not chewing on his favorite chew toys. Swelling in his face or gums. Excessive drooling. Pawing or itching as his face or mouth. Not wanting or letting you touch his face. Broken or chipped teeth can cause your Bulldog serious pain and problems with an infection later on. The severity of the broken or chipped tooth will dictate the course of treatment. Your vet will do an assessment and suggest a course of action. If it is a surface chip the tooth should be able to be repaired fairly easily. If the root is exposed then your Bulldog will likely need a root canal. Your vet will need to sedate your dog in order to do this safely. Be sure to watch out for nipping and biting that your Bulldog will surely want to do. Reward your dog with praise and a small treat when it lets you do this process with ease. Provide your Bulldog with lots of chew toys, affiliate link not only will this help you keep them from chewing on undesired things in your house, but it will also help them keep their teeth clean by the scraping motion that they do as they chew. Using a pet toothbrush like this as well as a good dog toothpaste is important. Use a dental powder cleanser like this one on Amazon affiliate link. You just add it to their water and you are done! Make a consistent effort. Taking care of oral hygiene once and a while will not be good enough for your lovable Bulldog companion. If the plaque and tartar have built up to a degree that you are not able to remove it yourself by brushing, you may need to take your dog to the vet for a professional cleaning. If professional cleaning is necessary, your vet will need to give your Bulldog general anesthesia for the procedure so that they can gain easy access to their mouth without the worry of being bitten or having your pup resist. This will also allow them to see if there are any teeth that are loose or rotting and may need to be removed. You will want to be sure to keep a good oral hygiene routine at home afterward to prevent the plaque from returning. If your Bulldog needs a dental cleaning, this article from the Spruce Pets can help you prepare for and understand what that process entails. Do Bulldogs Have Good Teeth? Bulldogs can have good and healthy teeth if they are well taken care of. Brushing them daily is important. Warning: If your Bulldog is prone to biting or is easily startled seek guidance from your vet or a professional dog trainer before following these steps. You will be looking to make sure that their teeth are white and if there is any brown, grey, or black buildup on their teeth how bad it is and where it is. When you look at their gums you are wanting to see light pink. If you see any darker pink coloring or red tint it can be an indication of gum disease and you will want to schedule a visit with your vet. Bulldog puppies are born with no teeth but gain 28 baby teeth deciduous teeth by weeks of age. Adult Bulldog will have a total of 42 teeth including twelve incisors for grasping , four canines for tearing , sixteen premolars, and 8 molars for grinding. Knowing more about their expected development can help ease some worries and concerns we might have. Just like their human counterparts around pre-school age, we start losing our baby teeth, our puppies are going to lose their teeth and grow adult ones as well. So to help you with this here is a detailed timeline of what you can expect while your puppy is teething. Please remember that every dog is different so even though this is a good estimate your dog may not follow it exactly. Newborn: Your puppy will be born with what looks like no teeth at all, but when he reaches 2 to 4 weeks old at the same time his eyes start to open his little baby teeth will start popping through. Around weeks old as you have recently brought your puppy home and are getting to know them better he will start to lose his baby teeth. It usually starts with the incisors and you will probably notice little rice-sized doggy teeth falling out everywhere. By 5 months old your puppy will have lost most of their baby teeth and by 6 months old they will have lost all their baby teeth and grown in all their adult teeth. As your puppy grows you should get your Bulldog used to you gently placing your hand around his mouth and gums. This is the start of socializing your dog and will be helpful to prepare them for getting their teeth brushed and clean. Even though it may be short it can be hard to make it through the puppy teething stage. Helping them focus their teething troubles on chewing and biting appropriate things rather than your furniture or fingers is part of their puppy training. You can tell your puppy might be having teething pain or discomfort if you notice them whining a lot see this article 7 Reasons Why Your Bulldog Whines What to Do to rule out other reasons for their whining , biting and chewing on everything, lots of drooling, and of course, the obvious losing teeth and swollen or tender gums. The best thing you can do is to offer your puppy a variety of puppy teething toys. Toys that offer different textures, different pressures, or different tastes will help your puppy have variety. An easy way to do this is to get a clean cloth a little wet and freeze it. A rope toy could also work well for this. Safety Tip: Puppy teeth are super sharp! Be sure to monitor your puppy when chewing and take away any toys or items that start to become shredded or break apart. It would be dangerous for your puppy to swallow any small pieces. Try putting a mixture of peanut butter and soft puppy food in the middle and freezing it. Your puppy will love it! This toy is great for teething. Puppies love the texture of the little rubber nubs against their gums. He really loves these!

It is the Rev. John Russell that is credited with developing the breed. Their purpose was to be a bold hunting dog that would sniff out foxes and chase them to ground, whilst alerting their handler by barking. The breed originated from a mixed bag of terrier breeds with the dog as we recognise them today putting in an appearance in the s. They became the consummate farm dog, ideal for keeping down vermin. Indeed, they were bred to attack in the face of danger, rather than back down, which may make their behaviour unpredictable when outside their comfort zone. Despite their name, they originated from England, bred as a pint-sized version of the English Bulldog. In the 19th century, they were especially popular with the Nottingham lace workers, and when the latter emigrated to France for better work prospects, they took their little dog with them. Understandably, the French fell in love with this bat-eared fellow, and soon claimed ownership of the breed. These dogs will be small but sturdy, with a deep ribcage and tucked up waist. When viewed from above some dogs will be broader across the chest then the hips, giving their silhouette a wedge or pear-shape. The French Bull Jack has a longer snout than the snub-nosed Frenchie, but larger, more bat-like ears than a Jack Russell. They have wide-set eyes and a quizzical expression that hints at their playful nature. The French Bull Jack has a short coat that comes in a range of colours from fawn with a black mask, brindle, black, or bi-colour. But, on the other hand, the dog may be a pocket dynamo that needs constant activity and outlets for their energy in order to be content. However, what can be said is that a well-adjusted French Bull Jack is going to be a loving companion that adores being with their owner and is as equally prepared for snuggles as activity. But either way, if the dog lacks exercise or companionship this may bring out their naughty side, as they make their own amusement with barking, digging, or chewing. Trainability A French Bull Jack is something of a training challenge. The wise owner uses reward-based training methods and makes training into a game. Health As yet, there are no recognised studies into the health problems prevalent in the French Bull Jack. However, some conditions are strongly linked to the parent breeds, which place their off-spring at risk of perhaps acquiring these problems. The kneecap or patella is an anchor on which the thigh muscles pull to straighten the leg. To work successfully, the kneecap must sit dead-centre in a special groove at the bottom of the thigh bone. Those dogs that are mildly affected may only need occasional pain relief, however, the worst affected animals require corrective surgery to maintain mobility and reduce the risk of arthritis. Typically the femoral head becomes misshapen and the bone is crumbly. This leads to hip pain and lameness. Surgical removal of the affected femoral head will prevent pain and give the dog excellent mobility, albeit that leg will always be slightly shorter than the other side. Symptoms include excessive licking and scratching of the legs and belly, along with recurrent ear infections. Unfortunately, these issues characteristically get worse with age, and can lead to severe damage to the skin. Allergies cannot be cured but they can be controlled. In addition, medications are available that suppress the allergic reaction to keep the dog comfortable. For severe flare-ups, antibiotics may be necessary to control secondary infections. This could mean a dog that would happily run all day long, to a sleepy fellow who prefers to snooze. Even the docile Frenchie requires plenty of human contact during the day even if this is just a warm lap to snuggle next to and not to provide this will cause distress. Grooming Happily, the French Bull Jack is low maintenance when it comes to grooming. That short coat will polish up a treat with a regular slick over with a grooming mitt, but requires little else by way of maintenance. If they get particularly muddy, then washing with a mild, dog shampoo is recommended, but ideally limit this to once a month to prevent over drying. Another tip is to brush their teeth daily. This removes plaque before it can harden into tartar and will reduce the need for dental treatment in later life. User reviews There are no user reviews for this listing. Popular Dog Breeds. View recommended products below and visit our Jack Russell shop for more. It has been carefully formulated with all natural ingredients to provide wholesome nutrition and contains no artificial colours or flavours, no dairy, no soya and no added wheat. Harringtons provides the conventional benefits associated with premium pet foods. These tasty meals will delight your dog and provide a healthy diet. All have been carefully formulated to provide wholesome grain free nutrition and contains no artificial colours or flavours, no dairy, no soya and no added wheat. Puppy recipes have been developed to ensure the best start in life, with all the vitamins and minerals needed for bouncing energy and healthy growth, and help support immunity. Complete and Balanced: meals rich in all the nutrients your dog needs. No Nasties: no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. Grain Free: naturally gluten free - no grains or bulkers. Healthy Growth: calcium for bones and high quality proteins for muscle growth. Beneficial Oils: Omega 3 and 6 - helps support your puppy's natural immunity. British and Irish Farmed: we only work with suppliers we know and trust. A Wholesome Bowlful: we believe nothing is better for your dog than nature's most nourishing food. We carefully prepare all our meals right here in the heart of England with natural ingredients from British and Irish farms and only use suppliers we know and trust, to make delicious and nourishing food for dogs. Made with natural ingredients. High in tasty meaty proteins. No cereal or soya fillers. All the vitamins and minerals your dog needs. No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. All natural meaty goodness with added vitamins and minerals, for great tasting, complete and balanced recipes every meal time. It's fun being as fit as a Butcher's dog. Suitable for home use as well as for working dogs. Main features: Reflective edges and chest strap: One of the most important functions of the IDC-Powerharness is that it works well as a visibility vest too. The grey line on the chest strap and the edges of the harness are made of reflective materials to help keep your dog visible even from a great distance, when out walking in the dark. Scientifically proven comfort: a chest strap leaving the neck of the dog free. Heavy-duty buckles: The high-quality buckles of the IDC-Powerharnesses are thoroughly tested and checked. The buckles work perfectly during wintertime, and do not break even in frosty weather. Closable handle: With the new handle fixing option, you can fix only the steel ring, only the handle, both of them or none of them. With these you can minimize the dog's chance of being stuck. It's really important especially for hunting dogs, search- and rescue dogs. Side bag attachment option: Side bags are available in 3L and 4L versions for Powerharness sizes 0 to 4. A smaller IDC Universal side bag is also available. With its cm3 capacity, it is ideal for carrying documents, vaccination papers, cellphones and dog treats. Flashlight holder: The flashlight holder is made of an elastic, high quality German material, so it can hold various sizes of flashlights. It can be used simultaneously with the side bags. It is essential for search and rescue dogs and service dogs working at night. Water repellent cover: Developed to be water resistant, highly durable, comfortable and secure, the IDC-Powerharness is the dog harness of choice for professional trainers, security personal and pet owners alike. Since ! Recommended by dog trainers, veterinarians, search and rescue and working dog organizations for 10 years now. If you've been looking for premium natural dog treats that won't break the bank then your search is over! A delicious range of flavours, shapes and textures, without any artificial colours. Great for training aids or just as a reward to make their day a happy one. Baltic dried sprats for dogs are high in healthy fish oils like Omega 3. Pork is the only ingredient making it a perfect pet safe alternative for a good boy or girl. Lifespan Sociability As the French Bull Jack can take after either parent, it can be a little difficult to determine the exact temperament of your new puppy. You should look to see how both the parent dogs interact with strangers i. Their activity levels are also useful to consider. As if both parents are active and energetic, it is far more likely that your new puppy will be too. Russell adopted the dog and named her Trump. After graduating, Mr. Russell decided to breed Trump with his foxhounds. He aimed to create a dog that was big enough to hunt with his foxhounds, but small enough to get into the foxholes and rout of the foxes. The resulting breed became the modern-day Jack Russell Terrier. It is quite surprising that the French Bull Jack exists at all The French Bulldog, the other ancestor of the French Bull Jack, is incapable of breeding naturally and require both artificial insemination and delivery by caesarean section. This is because French Bulldogs have very slim hips, making it impossible for a male Frenchie to mount and mate a female. And also exceedingly difficult for the female to give birth naturally. Consequently, the chances of a Frenchie mating with a Jack Russell or any dog for that matter are quite low, which means that breeding first-generation French Bull Jacks is quite a deliberate and challenging task. They make loving companions and are affectionate towards and adore being with their family. Of course, as you can get French Bull Jacks at either end of the activity scale, you need to keep in mind that you may end up with one that loves nothing more than curling up on the couch all day. But, equally, you may also have a pocket dynamo on your hands that needs to run about and play all day. Regardless of which parent your French Bull Jack takes after, their temperament will be such that they will not only tolerate, but likely adore children. They can, however, be a little mischievous. A trait that when coupled with boundless energy and a need for constant play, can become a bit of an issue with older, grumpy dogs or cats. If you have an extremely energetic dog that is always on the go, you will need a commercial food formulated for small active dogs. On the other hand, a more general small-dog formula will be best for a more docile dog. A highly active dog that takes after its Jack Russell lineage will require considerably more daily exercise than one who favors the French Bulldog. Frenchies only require a couple of short walks and perhaps a play in the yard every day. In contrast, those aligned more with the Jack Russell will need a long walk every day and a yard that they can bound around in as often as they like. Because of this considerable difference in exercise requirements, it is not a good idea to get a French Bull Jack puppy if you live in an apartment. It may be okay to adopt a slightly older dog, provided you know that they are not one of those active dogs that need lots of space. A post shared by Jeannette creative. While typically easy to train, their mischievous side can come out if they are not mentally stimulated. Making training an excellent activity for keeping their brains active. However, the best way to train a French Bull Jack is by rewarding good behavior, either with a food treat or play depending upon which they respond best. Incessant barking can also be an issue with this breed, and the problem should be dealt with early before it becomes a habit. They typically have straight, medium-length coats that will need brushing every days. They will, however, shed seasonally, and during these times will benefit from more regular brushing or a visit to a commercial dog groomer. As with all dogs, you should check your Jack Russell French Bulldog Mix over frequently for ticks and other parasites and brush their teeth about once a week. There are a few conditions that they are prone to, and we have listed these below. If you have any concerns about any of these conditions, or in fact about any health issues with your pet, you should seek the advice of your veterinarian. Minor Conditions. Should a French Bulldog Mix take after their Frenchie parent, they will be a small companion breed that bonds closely with their families. They tend to have an energetic, playful personality and love nothing more than being with their favorite humans. French Bulldogs tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs that get along with just about everyone. They tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets. They will even warm up quickly to strangers as long as they have been properly socialized. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from a French Bulldog Mix. You can also meet the mother in person to see what her temperament is like and the behavior she is modeling for the puppies. The breeder should have started some training and socialization, but it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. Frenchies are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes. However, as a brachycephalic breed, they are extra sensitive to heat and also sensitive to the cold. They also do not like being left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a Frenchie Mix to also be a highly adaptable dog. The other parent will introduce their own traits and some potential quirks, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. They could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, or they could inherit some or all of them. They can also be prone to allergies, have sensitive skin, and also a sensitive stomach. Good breeding practices will make a huge difference. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Although French Bulldogs can sometimes be stubborn, they are eager to please and tend to be easy to train. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, they can be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also easy to train, then you can expect a French Bulldog Mix to be highly trainable as well. Regardless of owner experience, there are many benefits of puppy training classes. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both. You will also need to clean their facial wrinkles. Weekly ear checks with cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, a Frenchie Mix is more prone to developing dental diseases later in life. This makes good, consistent dental care for dogs even more important for them. Daily brushing with a dog-friendly toothpaste or using an enzyme toothpaste paired with cleanings at the vet when needed is ideal. Frenchies are known couch potato dogs that are happy to lay back, relax, and cuddle with you. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this affectionate little dog. Even though they like to relax, they also like to play and will be energetic when they do. They can also be athletic and compete in dog sports. As a brachycephalic breed, you do need to be careful of overexertion and overheating. But, there are plenty of ways to safely exercise flat-faced dogs to make sure your French Bulldog Mix gets enough exercise. If the other parent breed is also a low-energy breed, then you can expect something similar from a Frenchie Mix. If the other parent breed requires more activity, then you will need to be prepared for the potential of a higher energy dog. Fully-grown Frenchies usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so make sure you ask the breeder about them. This can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown French Bulldog Mix. French Bulldogs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span in a French Bulldog Mix. Featured French Bulldog Mix Article. If you buy a product through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. As French Bulldogs have become the most popular breed in America, half Frenchie mix breeds have also increased in popularity. This crossbreed mixes the stocky appearance and affectionate personality of the French Bulldog with the energetic and intelligent nature of the Jack Russell Terrier. In this post, we will look at the history of the French Bull Jack. We will also explore its size, appearance, personality, health, care, and how it is as a family pet. The French Bulldog was first bred in England in the s, where it was popular among lace workers. When many of these workers moved to France during the Industrial Revolution, they brought their small bulldogs along with them. In France, these bulldogs were bred with existing French breeds like pugs and terriers, resulting in the French Bulldog we know today. Meanwhile, the Jack Russell Terrier was developed in England in the late s specifically for fox hunting. Reverend John Russell desired a lively, energetic terrier that had the intelligence and speed to hunt foxes. The breed maintains much of that energetic temperament still today. While the exact origins of the French Bull Jack crossbreed are unclear, it combines the companion qualities of the French Bulldog with the high energy of the Jack Russell Terrier. The diversity of the mix means that some French Bull Jacks may favor one parent more than the other. Size and Appearance French Bull Jack photo courtesy of irene. It typically stands inches tall at the shoulder. It weighs between pounds. Others have a more slender Jack Russell frame. Iconic French Bulldog bat ears are common. Coat colors include white, black, brown, tan, brindle or mixes. The coat is short, smooth and dense. It sheds moderately. Overall, the look of each individual Jack Russell French Bulldog mix is unique. But you can expect a sturdy, compact dog with an alert expression. Personality and Temperament French Bull Jack photo courtesy of messymimms on Instagram In temperament, the French Bull Jack displays a mix of traits from both parental breeds. From the Jack Russell side, they are energetic , adventurous dogs that are full of confidence. They also exhibit high intelligence , curiosity, and that signature terrier feistiness. From the French Bulldog lineage, the French Bull Jack inherits being very affectionate, devoted to family, and always eager for companionship. They thrive when they can spend time with their loved ones. The French Bull Jack is typically friendly towards strangers, especially when socialized young. They can make excellent watchdogs, alerting owners to anything unusual while rarely showing aggression. The Jack Russell French Bulldog mix aims to please their owners and are highly trainable with consistency and positive reinforcement. Overall, the French Bull Jack is a lively yet loyal companion that bonds very closely with family. Health and Lifespan French Bull Jack photo courtesy of ezzjaderussell on Instagram The French Bull Jack is generally quite a healthy breed, with an average lifespan of years. However, as with any dog, they may be prone to certain health issues. The French Bulldog parent can pass along genetic conditions related to their short muzzles, such as breathing difficulties or sensitivity to heat. The French Bull Jack may also be susceptible to joint problems, eye diseases, dental issues, or skin allergies. With proper preventative care, the French Bull Jack is likely to enjoy a long life. It requires minutes of activity daily. Good exercise for this breed includes: Walks Learning tricks Outdoor adventures Mental stimulation is important too. Shorter bursts of play, like tug of war or hide and seek, can also burn their natural energy. After getting its needed activity, the French Bull Jack enjoys relaxing with family. It is always up for some snuggle time at the end of the day. Grooming Needs The French Bull Jack has low-maintenance grooming needs: Its smooth, short coat requires only occasional brushing. Bathing is only needed every few months. Teeth brushing times per week is advised. Ears should be checked and cleaned routinely. Regular grooming keeps the French Bull Jack looking its best. It also offers a chance to bond with your dog. Here are some things to consider: It thrives on human companionship and forms close bonds. Proper socialization allows for safe interactions with children. Always supervise young kids with any dog. It generally gets along well with other household pets, especially if raised together. Access to a yard is great. But the breed can adapt to apartment living with sufficient daily walks. Crate training while young may help alleviate separation anxiety. With its affectionate nature, the Jack Russell Frenchie mix can fit in well with many types of families. It can become a beloved household member. Why Consider the French Bull Jack? Its appearance and personality are diverse, making each pup unique. It is energetic yet affectionate, thriving as part of the family. Adding any dog to your home requires commitment to its care and training. But the French Bull Jack rewards dedicated owners with love and companionship. For an adaptable, lively dog that bonds closely, the French Bull Jack has a lot to offer. It can bring fun and affection into family life. Josh founded TerrierOwner. Recent Posts.

As long as they are socialised well as a puppy, Golden Retrievers can happily fit into family life. They are gentle but need to be treated with respect by all members of the family, including young children, as like any dog their patience will eventually run out. Common health problems in Golden Retrievers Like any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers may encounter some breed-related health problems throughout their lives. Often, Breed Clubs will also be able to provide advice on what tests your breed may need and where to get these done. Make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by these upsetting conditions. For Golden Retrievers, this is because they can have short legs in proportion to their body and a tendency to become overweight. Eye problems — screening tests are available and dogs should be screened on a yearly basis, especially if intended for breeding. Multifocal retinal dysplasia - abnormal development and growth of the back of the eye retina which can lead to blindness. Generalised progressive retinal atrophy GPRA — slowly leads to progressive blindness over months or years. Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy RPED, or central progressive retinal atrophy — a genetic problem which causes issues in the back of the eye retina and loss of vision. Glaucoma — high pressure within the eye causing pain and loss of vision. Ichthyosis — a skin disease that causes thickening of the footpads and makes other areas of skin rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. Caring for your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are usually real big softies and can make a great addition to a home. How much noise they make will be down to the individual dog. Training and socialisation Golden Retrievers thrive off training and are very intelligent dogs. They love nothing more than to be given tasks to do to keep them occupied and have fairly good problem-solving skills — for a dog! As long as your Retriever is properly socialised from a young age , they should be confident around new people and situations. Retrievers also like their chill out time but will be more than happy to show you plenty of affection on their own terms. Exercise Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need plenty of opportunities to exercise , play and get rid of excess energy. Your Golden Retriever will need a minimum of two hours of good exercise per day. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together. Because they are intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers can get bored easily so make sure you keep their brains active as well as their bodies. As their name suggests, retrieving is what they were bred for, so nearly all Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch! Grooming Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats and generally do shed a lot. They are not a dog to take on if you hate hoovering! Ideally, they should be brushed or combed three times a week at a minimum. Where necessary you can trim their coat with the right tools, but seek advice from a professional dog groomer or vet first. You may also find that your Retriever loves water including any and all muddy puddles and swimming. Make sure they stay safe around the water and if they get mucky, use a dog safe shampoo. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate Golden Retrievers and children If you have a young family then Golden Retrievers can be fantastic with children. If socialised properly from a young age, Retrievers can be quite calm and tolerant. Always supervise children and vulnerable adults with your Golden Retriever and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Golden Retrievers and other pets Well-socialised Golden Retrievers are very easy-going, which usually means they can be great around other dogs and pets, too. Any introductions should be done carefully and following the right advice for your other pet, too. Always supervise your dog with other pets, even if they have known them for a long time. Obesity can cause other health problems for your Golden Retriever, so keeping them in shape is extra important. Make sure to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any sneaky snacking. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. Use healthy treats in moderation instead. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap before exercising and after eating. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. If you want to buy a pedigree puppy, we recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they have to do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts As they were bred to fetch game, they have a naturally gentle grip, called a 'soft mouth', so they don't damage the birds they carry back in their mouths. Golden Retrievers have an amazing sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs in other parts of the world. They absolutely love water well, most of them do. Most Retrievers will take any opportunity to have a swim. Luckily, their coats are thick to keep out water and keep them warm. Golden Retrievers make really good assistance dogs and are often a top choice for training to be Guide Dogs for the Blind. Make sure you have the knowledge and dedication to give to these sweet natured dogs to keep them happy and the time and space to exercise them. While they make great family pets, make sure you are absolutely ready to take on the commitment of getting a dog first. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Golden Retriever. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Golden Retrievers are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if the Golden Retriever is the right pet for you? They are simultaneously wonderful family pets—thanks to their friendly, tolerant attitude—and capable, intelligent working dogs. These sturdy, medium-sized dogs grow to about 55—75 pounds and typically live to be about 10—12 years old. Outgoing, trustworthy, eager-to-please, and easy-to-train, they are especially popular with families with young children. Goldens often maintain their fun-loving puppy attitudes and signature smile into adulthood. Part of the sporting dog group, golden retrievers are active dogs that require at least an hour of daily exercise. They live up to their name; they love retrieving just about anything thrown for them. This makes them excellent hunting companions and skilled service dogs. They love to eat, run, spend time with their owners, and even participate in obedience and agility events. Their coloring ranges from light golden to cream, and dark golden to golden, and their physique can vary from broad and dense to leaner and more sporty. According to AKC standards,goldens move with a smooth, powerful gait, and the feathery tail is carried, as breed fanciers say, with a "merry action. Thanks to their breeding as hunting and waterfowl-retrieving dogs in the Scottish Highlands,their outer coat is dense and repels water. They also have a thick undercoat. Their coats can vary in texture from wavy to straight. Heavy feathering appears on their chest, the backs of their legs, and tail. Temperament In general, golden retrievers are outgoing, playful, and gentle. They are also friendly, intelligent, and devoted. As they get older, most golden retrievers become docile and calm. Bred to be working retrievers, goldens have a lot of energy and require a lot of activity. They are best suited for owners with an active lifestyle and they thrive in a home where someone is around during the day to spend time with them. They don't do well when left at home on their own; they love their humans too much. Their happy demeanor often draws attention from other people when you are out and about—goldens get along well with strangers and other dogs. While they are not considered good guard dogs—they'd be more likely to show an intruder where the treats are than send the intruder running—golden retrievers are excellent service dogs thanks to their loyalty, intelligence, and stable temperament. They see themselves as part of the family and need to be treated as such. Luckily, goldens are not bothered by noise, commotion, and activity, making them very tolerant of children. Golden retrievers also take a "the more the merrier" approach to having other pets in the home. With proper introductions and training, goldens can be trusted with other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. A golden retriever would do well reigning over a large fenced-in yard , so if you don't have a lot of outdoor space or you live in an apartment, make sure you get your golden outside regularly. A lot," Steen says. Owners should get used to having a fair amount of dog hair on clothing and furniture around the home. They have a thick, water-repellant double coat that sheds moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. However, if you brush your golden daily, you can prevent tangling and remove some dead hair before it covers everything in sight. Baths can also help and are recommended about once a month, but make sure the golden is fully dry before brushing begins. Golden retrievers will also need their nails trimmed about once or twice a month. A good indicator of when they need to be trimmed is when you can hear them clicking on the floor. Teeth should also be brushed at least two or three times a week. Ear checks are important as well; goldens have fold-over ears, which create an environment that encourages bacteria and fungus to grow. Look for redness or a bad odor and simply wipe out the outer ear with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to help prevent infections. Exercise is an essential part of a golden retriever's day. At least one hour a day of rigorous activity is necessary, even if that happens over several different outings or play times throughout the day. Goldens can be taken on long runs , bike rides, hikes, and swims. They also enjoy hunting trips, field trials, and other canine sports like agility, obedience, and tracking. A golden that doesn't get enough exercise is likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors like digging and chewing. Mental challenges, such as learning tricks and playing with puzzle toys, are also appealing to goldens, but should never replace physical activity. Take it easy with exercise in a golden retriever's first two years of life, as their growth plates are still forming. Don't go for long, strenuous runs or hikes until the dog is fully grown, and always opt for grass over concrete. Early socialization and puppy training classes are important with golden retrievers. Puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of people, places, and situations to help them become well-adjusted in their young life. When it comes to feeding time , owners need to help golden retrievers manage their intake; they have a tendency to become overweight. Food should be measured out and given twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. Dog treats should be given in moderation. If you're unsure whether your golden retriever is overweight, give him the eye test and the hands-on test. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. If you can't, he likely needs less food and more exercise. Chat with your vet about the best course of action. According to Steen, they are a generally healthy breed, but goldens are at a slightly increased risk of hip dysplasia and cancer when compared to other dogs. Other health conditions, although not particularly common, include elbow dysplasia, cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy —or gradual deterioration of the retina—hypothyroidism, gastric dilatation-volvulus otherwise known as bloat , and allergies. Golden retrievers should also have their ears checked often and teeth brushed regularly for optimum health. History Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord of Tweedmouth, developed golden retrievers in the mid-to-late s. Although at one time a rumor indicated that golden retrievers descended from Russian sheep dogs, they were, in fact, bred in the Scottish Highlands. Marjoribanks bred the dogs for more than 50 years to create an ideal gundog—he was an avid hunter of waterfowl. Tweedmouth wanted a dog suited to the rainy climate and rugged terrain of the area, so he crossed his "yellow retriever" with a breed that is now extinct, the Tweed water spaniel. He also wanted the dog to be even-tempered in the home. A golden retriever was first shown at the British dog show in .The Kennel Club in England officially recognized the golden retriever as a distinct breed in .At that time, they were classified as "retriever — yellow or golden. Fun Facts Considered one of the most beloved dog breeds, golden retrievers gained popularity with American families in the s when President Gerald Ford had a golden named Liberty. Tucker Budzyn is currently the most recognized golden retriever on the Internet, with more than 3 million followers across YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. Golden retrievers are regulars on big and little screens. Golden retrievers love tennis balls. Just ask this 6-year-old golden named Finley , who is the Guinness World Record holder for carrying the most tennis balls in his mouth at a time. He can hold six! Was this page helpful? History Where are Golden Retrievers from? One of the best documented and most fortuitous efforts to produce a breed resulted in the Golden Retriever. The man responsible for the breed was Lord Tweedmouth, who lived just north of the Scottish border along the Tweed River. How big do Golden Retrievers get? Goldens can reach a weight of 55 — 75 lbs, and a height between .A Golden Retriever has a dense, straight or wavy outer water-repellent coat, which sheds heavily twice annually and lightly throughout the year. Groom a Golden Retriever weekly to maintain the double coat and control shedding. What are the Golden Retriever colors? The breed was first considered to be a yellow variety of Flat-Coated Retrievers but was recognized as a separate breed, the Yellow or Golden Retriever, in .What makes the Golden Retriever dog so popular? The breed was valued for the hunting abilities so ably produced by the careful blending of foundation stock, and only later became popular as a pet. How long do Golden Retrievers live? Golden Retrievers have a lifespan of 10—13 years. What are some Golden Retriever facts and information? Facts Golden Retrievers are best known to: Push through heavy vegetation.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Wisconsin Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Wisconsin? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Wisconsin? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. House-trained, Story Please note that we are a TX based rescue that transports out dogs once they are adopted. This pup is in a foster home in TX. Please fill out an adoption application found at haydudeequine. The Chanel brand was founded way back in .It is not only famous for its fragrances but also for it's luxury wear and accessories. I am all about the fashion and with my beauty I'm ready to be up on the catwalk or should that be the dogwalk?!! My stunning eyes are two different colors. It is a native Indian saying that something with 2 eye colors possesses sight into both heaven and earth. Is that not cool or what?!! I'm still a youngster at around a year and a half. I'm a super sweet lovebug that is calm, mellow and easy going. It's all just another happy day as I take everything in stride, my easy going attitude shining thru. I love everyone, tall or small and also the other foster pups here. Nothing like having a sibling at your disposal to play with all day everyday!!! At my 70ish lbs I'm a bigger gal but that just means they is more of me to love you, but I'm not so big that I take up the whole couch. I will always save room for you. How else will I get in my cherished cuddle time?!!!! It does put me at a great size for adventures tho. Walks to the coffee shop oh my, a puppaccino please , neighborhood strolls, nature hikes so many irresistible smells , camping trips I sure don't mind sleeping on the ground if you don't , river excursions and whatever else you can think up. My mixed breed hairytage coat is on the short side and will be pretty low maintenance in the grooming department. It won't take much to keep me ready to do the 'dogwalk'. And I am house and crate trained so that's a great bonus combination for my new family! Affectionate and playful, calm and loyal then add in my gorgeous coat and stunning eyes and you've got a great family addition. The only thing missing is YOU!!

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Have you always wanted a Labrador retriever, but are you worried about the common health problems of the breed? Someone might have recommended that you go for a Pit Bull-Lab mix. Labrador retrievers and American pit bull terriers began to be deliberately interbred in the s as a way of minimizing the health problems that are common to both pure breeds. The result is usually a gorgeous, medium-sized pup with the strength and loyalty of a pit bull and the intelligence and affection of a Labrador. But wait, you might be wondering if these dogs are highly aggressive, since pit bulls do have a reputation for being a pretty aggressive dog. While exactly what you get with a mix-breed pup is always unpredictable, the aggressive reputation of the pit bull is undeserved. They are, in fact, intelligent and affectionate canines. A word of warning, while pit bull-Lab mixes are highly affectionate and highly trainable, they are not generally recommended for first-time dog owners since there is quite a bit of work involved in looking after these special dogs. But whatever you call them, they are a mix between a Labrador retriever and an American pit bull terrier. Labrador retrievers are medium-large gun dogs that were initially bred to retrieve game. But over the years, they have also become incredibly popular family dogs. They are also highly intelligent, trainable, and friendly, so they are also often used as disability assistance dogs, for example working as guide dogs for the blind. American pit bull terriers are solidly built medium-sized dogs. In the early 19th century, they were often used in blood sports such as bull and bear-baiting, and after these sports were outlawed in , they were also often used in dogfighting. This is why the breed has a reputation for being aggressive, but they are not naturally aggressive when properly cared for. They are, in fact, strong, confident, and lively, and make excellent family pets as they love children and are protective of them. Pit Bull-Labrador Mix Characteristics Unlike with pure-bred dogs, which tend to have a fairly predictable appearance and temperament, you can never be sure exactly how the characteristics of parents will combine in a mix-breed dog. But it is possible to generalize about the most likely characteristics of a pit bull-Lab mix based on the characteristics that appear most often, and characteristics that breeders will often try and control to produce the best possible pups. Labrador-Pit Bull Mix Appearance Most pups that are a mix between a Labrador retriever and a pit bull can be characterized as medium in size. They usually range from between 17 to 25 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 45 to 90 pounds. Male Lab-pit bull mixes tend to be significantly larger than their female counterparts. They will almost certainly have a strong and muscular physique. Labradors are fairly strong to start with, and this is only enhanced by the extreme muscular nature of the American pit bull terrier. Their facial features generally fall between those of a Lab and a pit bull, and they will have a broader forehead than a Labrador retriever, but it will be narrower than that of a pit bull. They usually have a relatively long muzzle and long pointed ears. Your pitador might also come out with the classic Labrador retriever double coat that sheds a lot. Breeders will often try and control for this characteristic, but there are no guarantees. There is no way of knowing what kind of coat they will have when you adopt a puppy. Coat colors vary from classic Labrador colors including black, chocolate, and golden yellow, but you can also expect to see white, spotted, brindle, and cream. Lab-Pit Bull Mix Temperament When you adopt a Labrabull, you can expect a dog that is affectionate, intelligent, and energetic, as these are characteristics of both Labrador retrievers and American pit bull terriers. Lab-pit bull mixes are very affectionate and bond quickly with new families. They are incredibly friendly with children and will be both careful and protective of them. While you can trust a pit bull-Lab mix with children, small children should never be left alone with any dog unsupervised. While they do get on with other animals, this breed does have a need to be dominant. They may engage in behaviors you consider aggressive or undesirable to assert their dominance over other dogs or household animals. They crave to be included in everything the family does and to be the center of attention. These dogs are very intelligent and also eager to please, which makes them highly trainable. They are just as capable of being trained as working dogs as their Labrador retriever parent. They are motivated by praise and reward, and training should always utilize positive reinforcement. When your dog is frustrated and confused by what you want from them, that is when they can become aggressive. But pit bull-Lab dogs are not naturally aggressive; they actually have a calm and fun-loving temperament. But they are also high energy and need a lot of exercise. They are highly alert and will bark a little to let you know if guests arrive at the door or strangers are lurking near the house. Lab-Pit Bull Mix Health These crossbreed dogs generally live for years and within that time are likely to have fewer health problems than either purebred Labrador retrievers or American pit bull terriers. Nevertheless, they can be inclined to develop some of the joint conditions that are common in Labrador retrievers, such as hip dysplasia. They can benefit from glucosamine supplements to help keep their joints supple and healthy. You can find our recommendations for the best glucosamine supplements here. These dogs are also more inclined to developing epilepsy and hyperthyroidism than some other dog breeds. You should monitor your dog for seizures to identify the onset of epilepsy. You can read more about seizures in dogs here. Finally, dogs that are a mix of Labrador retrievers and pit bulls can be inclined to develop skin conditions and allergies. For this reason, it is important to choose a good pH-balanced shampoo for your dog, and try to keep their food and environment free of toxins that can trigger or exacerbate allergies. These might help you to decide whether they are the right breed of dog for you. Exercise Lab-pit bull retrievers are energetic dogs that need lots of space to play. They need a yard to give them space to run and play throughout the day. They need a lot of exercise each day. They need at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise, such as running or playing catch, each day. On top of this, they will need hours of moderate exercise such as walking and playing. This exercise is best when split into at least two exercise sessions each day. It is advisable to keep your pit bull-Lab mix on the leash when in public parks as they have a high prey drive. Attention These dogs thrive on love and attention, and since they are so intelligent, they also need a lot of mental stimulation. This means that it is not appropriate to leave them alone for long periods of time. If you leave one of these dogs alone for ten hours a day while everyone is at work, you will come home to a lot of destruction and a frustrated dog that may become aggressive in their need for your affection. Grooming Most Lab-pit bull mixes have the short-haired, low-shedding coat of a pit bull, which only needs brushing once a week. But if they turn out to have the high-shedding coat of a retriever, you may find that you need to brush them every day to keep on top of their shedding. You will also want a powerful vacuum cleaner that is designed to pick up dog hair. You also need to pay a lot of attention to dental care, as Lab-pit bull mixes are prone to tartar build-up and gum disease. Diet Since these dogs are highly muscular and full of energy, they thrive on a diet that is high in animal-based proteins and high in healthy fats. You do need to be careful how much food you give them, as they will usually eat even when they feel full, and they are prone to put on weight when they overeat. So, feed them a diet that is low in carbohydrates and put food out at regular times rather than leaving food in their bowl for them to graze throughout the day. Since these dogs are prone to allergies, it is important to invest in high-quality food that does not contain any artificial additives that can be toxic for dogs. It is also a good idea to vary their diet, and ensure they are not eating the same type of meat every day. Dogs are most likely to develop allergies to the foods they eat the most. So, if you feed your dog the same chicken-based dog food every day, it is likely that over time they might develop an allergy to chicken. Varying the protein that makes up their diet can help prevent this. Where To Adopt There are many reputable breeders out there breeding top-quality pit bull-Labrador retriever mixes. Generally speaking, you will find that the Labrador is the mother, as they are a slightly larger breed, and it is safer for the dog when the mother is a bit larger than the father. So, if possible, look to adopt rather than buy. A great place to start looking for adoptable dogs is at Petfinder. We found our Australian Shepherd Labrador Retriever mix through petfinder. FAQs Is a pit bull-Lab mix an aggressive dog? No, pit bull-Lab mix dogs are not aggressive. They can have a reputation for aggression because pit bulls have traditionally been used in blood sports, but the breed is not naturally aggressive. They can be dominant among other animals and may engage in classic alphamale behavior to assert their position in the animal hierarchy. When do Lab-pit bull mixes stop growing? Lab-pit bull mix dogs will usually keep growing until they are about three years old, which is around the same time as they start to lose their puppy energy. You can expect them to grow between 17 and 25 inches tall and to weigh between 45 and 90 pounds. Are pit bull-Lab mixes a good dog breed for families with kids? Yes, Lab-pit bull mixes are excellent kids. They are gentle and playful and will also be highly protective of their young charges. While they will give you a bark to let you know that strangers are around, they are actually very good with strangers as well. Can you have a pit bull-Lab mix with another dog? Pit bull-Lab mixes are highly dominant animals, so they will try and assert their dominance over any other animals you have in the house. For this reason, they need to be well-socialized from a young age to ensure they learn appropriate behavior. So, while you can introduce a Lab-pit bull mix puppy into a home that already has a dog, you might want to be wary about introducing an adult dog into a household that already has another dog. Do pit bull-Lab mix dogs bark a lot? No, these highly intelligent dogs are not the type to bark continuously or for no reason. They might give you a bark to let you know when something has happened or if someone is approaching. When do Labrador-pit bull mix dogs calm down? From about the age of one year, these dogs begin to calm down and have less energy. The Verdict Labrador retriever-American pit bull terrier mixes make excellent pets for anyone with an active lifestyle and lots of space for these dogs to stretch their legs. They combine the intelligent and friendly temperament of both breeds in an adorable dog that is less likely to suffer from some of the serious medical conditions that are common in both pure breeds. They are also highly trainable and have a calm and friendly temperament as long as they are getting the physical stimulation and the attention that they need. You will need to be prepared to make the time commitment to keep these dogs healthy and happy. Do you have any experience raising a Lab-pit bull mix pup? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Loyal and easy to train, the Pitbull Lab mix will make an excellent addition to any family and provide great companionship. History Of The Pitbull Lab Mix Both the Pitbull and the Labrador Retriever are historically working dogs , so it comes as no surprise that the Pitbull Lab mix likes to keep themselves busy and entertained. They were originally bred to combine the most desirable characteristics from both parent breeds into one dog — the temperament of the Labrador and the loyalty of the Pitbull. Breed Origin The breed origin of the Pitbull Lab mix is actually unknown and we cannot be sure when these dogs first appeared. However, we can look at the history of both parent breeds so you get an idea of where these pups originated from. The Pitbull parent in the Pitbull Lab mix can actually be any of four types of Pitbull. The Pitbull was created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull and bear baiting. They were thought of as aggressive fighting dogs but it was also known that they were very gentle with humans and made excellent family dogs. Later, these Pitbulls accompanied immigrants to America and they began new careers as all-around farm dogs. Their jobs included hunting wild game, guarding the property from animal intruders and providing companionship. The Labrador, as we mentioned above, is the most popular breed of dog in America. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs in the s and used to accompany hunters and retrieve animals that had been shot. They were also used in Newfoundland to retrieve fish that came in off the trawl, which is why they love the water. Their loyal and loving nature mean that they quickly became a very popular family dog and are still used today as working dogs, such as guide dogs. Characteristics Of The Pitbull Lab Mix Because the Pitbull Lab Mix is not a purebred breed and it is not recognized by any kennel clubs, this means that there is no definite breed standard for these pups. This means we cannot be sure how each litter of puppies is going to turn out. However, we can guess based on previous litters. These dogs are normally born in litter sizes of 5 to 10 puppies, with the average being 7. It is not normally an issue which parent is the sire or the dam when breeding. Appearance As we have said above, you can never be sure what your Pitbull Lab crossbreed will look like. They may look more like their Pitbull parent or more like their Labrador Retriever parent. The Pitbull Lab Mix is classed as a medium to large breed dog, and they can weigh anywhere up to 80 lbs, with females generally being smaller than males. These dogs will likely have floppy ears and will be muscular yet lean in statue. Coat A Labrador Pitbull Mix will generally have a short, smooth coat and they will not require too much grooming. We will go into more detail about grooming later on. Color The parent breeds of the Pitbull Lab Mix dog can vary greatly in color, which means your designer dog will likely vary greatly too. A Labrador can be yellow, brown or black and a Pitbull can be a huge range of colors — especially because there are four different breeds of this dog! If you want a good indication as to what your Pitbull Lab may look like color wise, you should take a look at the parent breeds. Temperament The Pitbull Lab Mix is a friendly and sociable dog that loves to be around people. This is particularly true for the Pitbull in them, who can become feisty when bored or not stimulated. Therefore, they will do well when they are around a lot of people and are being given lots of attention! This could not be further from the truth. When raised properly and socialized well, these dogs are sweet-natured and loving — traits which are passed down to the Pit Lab Mix. They are not known to bark and will alert you when there is anything wrong, making them a great guard dog or watch dog. The intelligence level of this mixed breed dog means they are easily trainable and will be top of the class at puppy school. They will also happily learn tricks and engage with their owners! Lifespan The Lab Pit Mix has a relatively long life expectancy and can live, on average, anywhere between 10 and 14 years. These are normally the same health issues that their parent breeds are predisposed to. However, there are two health problems that are seen more frequently, both of which are seen in Labradors. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any issues to offspring. Daily Life While the different traits and characteristics that your Pitbull Lab Mix may inherit from their parent breeds can be somewhat of a mystery, fortunately taking care of these dogs is pretty straight forward. Below we discuss their food and diet, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. As an adult, this should be anywhere between 1, to 2, calories a day, which equates to four cups of kibble a day. You should always check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount you should be feeding them of a particular food based on their weight. When they reach maturity, this should be reduced to 2. As an adult, you should try to feed them three times a day. Always remember to feed your Pitbull Lab Mix nutritious, high-quality dog food. We have included a food that we recommend below. This food is formulated with protein-rich chicken as the first ingredient, ensuring your doggie gets all the nutrients they need to keep their muscles healthy and strong. Designed specially for large dog breeds, this food contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and overall mobility of bigger dogs. There are also antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to support immune system health, life stage requirements and a healthy oxidative balance. Exercise A Pitbull Labrador crossbreed is a medium to large breed of dog and therefore has high exercise needs. A dog of this size should be exercising for around minutes a day, so you must make sure you have the time to dedicate to this breed before buying. When the Pitbull cross is a puppy, you should remember the 5 minute rule. Therefore, if your pup is four months old, you should only be exercising them for around 20 minutes. These pups will love to join you on a hike or a run or, like their Labrador parent, they also love to swim. Because of their intelligence, they can also learn different dog sports such as flyball or agility, so this is something to think about. Check locally to see whether your area has any restrictions. You may need to keep your dog on the leash or have them wear a muzzle. Loving and friendly, these pups thrive when they are around people and like to be right in the middle of everything, getting all the attention! They do not do well when left alone and can exhibit destructive behaviors and signs of separation anxiety. Therefore, you must make sure you are not going to be out for hours at a time if you are thinking about bringing one of these dogs into your home. These dogs need to be kept entertained and stimulated mentally, which is why they can be such a good playmate for children. They also get on well with other family pets, so there is no need to worry about their reaction to other dogs and cats. The Pitbull Lab Mix is a very intelligent dog, which means training them is very easy. Training and Socializing We have mentioned above that the Pitbull Labrador crossbreed is a very intelligent dog. This means that training them is easy and is one of the reasons they are recommended as a good first dog. These pups respond best to positive reinforcement training. This includes verbal praise and reward-based training such as treats. Socializing your Pitbull Lab cross is also not difficult. They get on well with children and other animals, so there should be no issue within the family home. You should start socializing them from a young age and introduce them to new sights, sounds, places, smells, people and animals when you are out and about. Grooming Fortunately, your Lab Pitbull Mix will not require a lot grooming. You will need to brush them roughly two to three times a week to ensure that shedding stays at a minimum. Unfortunately, as they have a Labrador parent, they will shed a lot! You will need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner if you want to keep your home fur-free. Bathing your Pitbull Lab is also important, but this can be done as infrequently as times a year. You should also check their ears regularly to spot any signs of infection, and ensure their nails are clipped as needed. We touched on this above but the answer is no. There is a common misconception that all Pitbulls are dangerous, but when trained properly and brought up in a loving and caring environment, Pitbulls are affectionate, loyal dogs and love to be around people. Are Pitbulls illegal? In some areas of the United States, Australia and the UK, Pitbulls and other related dog breeds are under breed-specific laws. These laws prevent residents in those areas from owning these dogs, except from under special circumstances. Pitbulls in these areas are seen as a danger because of their reputation and dog fighting background, even though there is a huge amount of evidence to show that when trained properly Pitbulls make great pets. How much does a Pitbull Lab Mix cost? If this is out of your price range, you can always check your local shelter to see if there is a pup there that needs a loving home! Summary The Pitbull Labrador Mix breed was created to cherrypick the best traits from each parent breed — the temperament of the Labrador and the loyalty of the Pitbull. These loving, friendly dogs make excellent family pups who just love to be around people, both adults and children, and other animals too. While the Pitbull has a reputation for being aggressive, this could not be further from the truth and, when put in the right home, the Pitbull Labrador Mix is a companion for life. What do you think, is one of these dogs right for you? Other Pitbull Related Guides. .You will never know if your puppy is going to look more like a Lab or a Pit in the future. Pit Lab Mixes are black, brown, tan, white, and yellow. Some Pit Lab Mixes are solid in color, while others have distinctive white marks just like a Pitbull. Originally, all Labradors were black. When a litter is influenced by the predominant features of the Black Lab, it is very likely for you to have a litter of jet black Lab Pitbull pups. A majority of Lab Pitbulls are actually black in color with distinctive white marks on the face, on the chest, at the tips of the paws and tail. Its spectrum of rich brown hues can be passed onto its offsprings. Brown Lab Pitbulls usually have markings, too. Labradors with orange hues to their coats are also classified by the American Kennel Club as a yellow Labrador. Pitbull Lab Mix Looks Generally speaking, Pitbull Lab Mixes have the following features: a broad head a pair of almond-shaped eyes small droopy ears a long tail a smooth, dense coat But as with any crossbreed, there is no way you can accurately guess how your puppy is going to turn out. You will just have to wait until he is fully grown. A Pitbull Lab can grow to a height between 30 cm. As always, this breed sits in the grey area between the Pitbull and the Labrador even in size. Their weight also depends on how much Labrador or Pitbull genes they have in them. Pitbull Labs in general, weigh around 45 lbs. However, a Pitbull Lab with dominant Pitbull genes can weigh up to 95 lbs. Pitbull Lab Mix Character Traits We all know that the Labrador Retriever has a playful, friendly spirit while the Pitbull has a bold, courageous demeanor. So, what could be the personality of a Pitbull Lab mix? Read on to find out! Pitbull Lab Mixes are family oriented and will protect their humans at all costs. These courageous canines will stand up to any threat! Pitbull Lab Mixes are highly protective of their pack, which is often displayed as an aggressive behavior. When given proper training, the Pitbull Lab mix can easily distinguish between threat and unusual stimuli, so he can exercise restraint. The Pitbull Lab mix is usually quiet, which makes them the ideal pet for apartment living or for close-knit subdivisions. Likewise, Pitbull Lab Mixes are great watch dogs as they always keep their eyes peeled. They can sense danger from afar, be it a wanted criminal or a teenager who is up to no good. A big softie Another remarkable trait that Labrabulls have is their ability to connect with their owners. They can sense if you are sad, troubled, or in pain. These dogs will snuggle next to you and give you wet licks — the canine equivalent of hugs and kisses. So, the next time you are about to cry, you can count on your tail-wagger to comfort you during hard times. This is certainly a trait that they have inherited from Labradors. After all, Labradors are notably known as therapy dogs. A goofball Pitbull Lab Mixes are ever-ready to face any danger that represents itself. But these fearless dogs also melt easily into a jiggly pile of face-licking love around their beloved humans. Pitbull Lab Mixes love to run fast, tug hard, jump high, play games and solve doggie problems like the smart and creative creature that he is. Clingy Although the Pitbull Lab mix is a big softie, this breed does have a tendency to develop a neurotic behavior if left alone for long periods. Encourage him to be a little more independent by allowing him to explore the world a little further away from you. Docile Pitbull Lab Mixes are notable for their obedient demeanor towards their owners. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Be sure to establish yourself as the Alpha of the pack, especially when your Pitbull Lab Mix is still a pup. Lab Pit Mix Temperament A majority of dog owners are not yet convinced with the Lab Pit Mix temperament, which mainly harks back to the reputation of its parent breed, the Pitbull. So, why are these dogs depicted in a bad light? But truth be told, the tiny Chihuahua is actually more threatening than the hulking Pitbull. James Serpell, a renowned professor from the University of Pennsylvania, conducted a series of tests to determine which canines are the most aggressive. Furthermore, the American Temperament Test Society performed a study in to evaluate the temperament of the controversial breed. According to the results, the American Pitbull Terrier has a temperament passing rate of .In other words, many canines that share Pitbull-like characteristics are quickly categorized as a Pitbull Terrier. Likewise, the CDC stated that there is no scientific proof that shows Pitbulls are more involved in fatal attacks compared to other breeds. But of course, any dog that was cultivated for aggression can terrorize a whole neighborhood. This applies to all dogs, not just for Pitbulls. Therefore, an angry Pitbull is not the closest thing you will encounter next to a Great White Shark. While its parent breed has proven itself a true fighter, a Pitbull can only be aggressive if the dog was bred for the wrong reasons. Undesirable traits are rooted in improper training and lack of socialization, regardless of which breed you have. This means a Labrador, which is easygoing and gentle by nature, can get into a bevy of troubles if he has no concept of right and wrong. Unfortunately, the Pitbull Terrier remains a cult favorite among irresponsible owners. Therefore, it is imperative that you take the time to ensure your canine buddy gets properly trained and socialized. Despite their undeserved reputation, a Pitbull or a Pitbull Lab mix can respond well when training is done the right way, especially when you shower your pets with tender loving care! Are Lab Pitbull Mixes Sociable? Dogs are social creatures and are happiest when in contact with others, so yes, that includes the Pitbull Lab mix. But just like any other dog, your Lab Pit Mix must learn social skills at a tender age to keep fighting at a minimum. Socializing allows your tiny pup to get used to various settings and be comfortable towards meeting new people and animals. Keep in mind that Lab Pit Mix sometimes love to play a little rough. However, this should not be mistaken as a high prey drive. As a fur-parent, you also have to be well-balanced as the dog you seek. If you have a grumpy canine with a killer glint in the eye and a growl to match, step back and consider whether you are teaching your dog the right lessons. If not, get professional help! Establish yourself as the Alpha First of all, you have to firmly establish yourself as the leader of the pack. It means you have to set boundaries, stick with your own rules, and avoid doing things out on a whim! Otherwise, your growing pooch would think you are weak and inconsistent. A successful relationship depends upon you being in control. If your little Pitador does what he wants in small, harmless ways, it is likely for him to do what he wants in big, annoying ways. Nevertheless, be sure to be fair and calm when correcting your furry sidekick. Pitadors are among the most obedient dogs but they can also be very sensitive. Employ positive reinforcement Pitadors care about praise… and yummy treats! So, be sure to hand out some tasty dog biscuits to your pup for his little accomplishments. You can also alternate it with praises and belly rubs. Positive reinforcement is absolutely crucial, especially during the first weeks of potty training. When your Pitador goes potty outside instead of your hardwood floor, make a fuss and reward him. Considering how the Pitbull Lab mix is extremely intelligent, your pup is quick to understand which of his actions are good and desirable to you. Thus, he will repeat the behavior as often as possible. Correct your dog the right way Punishment is often associated with physical harm, such as hitting your dog with a stick. This method is not only harsh but also counterproductive. So, how do you correct your canine lout without making him anxious or wary of you? Since it is no good trying to reason with your dog, the most efficient and humane way to teach him is through constructive punishment. You can confiscate his favorite toys or simply ignore your dog for a certain period of time. Physical punishment only hampers the relationship between you and your beloved pet. Explore new grounds Take your furry sidekick as many places as you can go. You can stuff him in a pet carrier while he is still a puppy and have him walk beside you when he is finally bulky. Having your little Pitador tag along with you provides him with a spectrum of experiences with various people, animals, and objects. This is the best way to shape his behavior towards boisterous children, unusual structures, and fast-moving vehicles among many others. The more exposure he has as a puppy, the calmer he becomes as an adult. Provide mental and physical stimulation Both parent breeds of the Pitbull Lab mix requires tons of mental and physical exercise, so it is quite unsurprising for their offspring to have the same demands. Regular exercise is paramount if you want to keep your furry sidekick fighting fit. Otherwise, your Pitador is bound to carry extra weight that can have a huge impact on his overall wellbeing. Dogs are rarely lazy but if the exercise is boring, dogs are as likely as humans to refuse to do it. However, simply letting your dog chase squirrels out in the backyard is not going to cut it. So, what are your options? Walk your dog Walking your canine buddy is the most commonly performed exercise. Ideally, active dogs such as the Pitbull Lab mix should be taken out for a long walk twice daily. To make this a viable solution for busy fur-parents, choose to walk around the neighborhood a couple of times or go to a park that has a decent distance from your home. Try to change the route of your walks from time to time, so your Pitador has a new battery of smells to get excited over. You can always count on the treadmill if it rains cats and dogs! It gives your dog the workout he requires in a playful manner, while you just sit and relax. It would be wise to come equipped with a nifty device, such as a toughened tennis ball with a long-handled launcher that sends the ball flying into the far distance. Dog Frisbees also fly long distances to be retrieved by your pet. Go out for a swim A lot of dogs are afraid of the water but once they get the hang of it, they will paddle like a wild duck! Swimming is also one of the most enjoyable activities you can do with your dog. There is a plethora of toys from pet stores, such as a Kong floating toy to encourage your furry pal to swim. Your fun-loving Pitador will surely jump right in and retrieve the object for you. Find out what reward motivates your canine buddy and include some of that reward for him in your exercise regime to encourage him to be more active. Even racing up the stairs with your dog can be a fun and effective exercise, as well. The simplest forms of exercise can deliver amazing results. In fact, running up and down the stairs is the quickest way for obese dogs to lose weight! They will chow down anything delicious, whether it is the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best large breed dry dog food! So, it is up to you to provide your canine buddy the balanced diet he needs to stay hale and hearty. Go for the best dry dog food and keep them away from the nutrient-deprived worst dry dog food. His choices are:. Protective yet friendly, the Pitbull Lab mix has a range of reputations to live up to. These breeds were used in bloodsports until the practice was banned. Sadly, the stigma attached to being used as fighting dogs has stuck with Pitbull-type breeds through the years. Labrador Retrievers were originally bred as hunting dogs. They are also commonly used as therapy dogs, in search and rescue missions and as seeing eye dogs for the blind. When you make a Pitbull and Lab mix, any of the qualities of the parent breeds can be passed on, in any combination. Growing controversy over American Pitbulls in recent years has led to a lot of misinformation about the breed. Pitbulls are banned in several countries because of their reputation as a fighting dog. However, if properly bred, socialized and trained, these are wonderful dogs with a warm, loving and affectionate temperament. What Do They Look Like? When buying a cross-breed there are no guarantees. Puppies can resemble either parent, or a combination of both. There can even be big differences within the same litter. But, Labrador and Pitbull breeds do have some similarities that are likely to appear in your Pitador puppy. Pitbull Lab Mix Size Both have medium-sized, athletic frames. Pitbulls are quite muscular, with wide chests and broad, flat heads. But, Labs are taller, with a slimmer shape and a longer nose. So, Labrabulls will range from 50 to 90 pounds. Labrabull Coats and Colors They have a short and silky coat and come in a variety of colors. Coat colors include brindle, brown, black and white and tan. You may also find a black Lab and Pitbull mix or a chocolate Lab Pitbull mix. Another popular variety is the yellow Lab Pitbull mix. For example, your glossy black Lab Pitbull mix puppy will likely get some gray around his muzzle and eyes as he gets older. Grooming and Shedding Thanks to its parents short-haired genes, the Labrador Pitbull mix is fairly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Just bathe when necessary and brush as needed. But, during shedding season you might find you are grooming a lot. Labradors are very high shedding dogs, and as such your puppy could be too. Make sure to get him used to being groomed regularly. This will make your job easier when he starts to molt! So you can expect your Pitbull Lab mix to be the same. Many Pitbull advocates praise their intelligence, willingness to learn and love for their families. Labrador Retrievers are known as excellent family pets. They are friendly and outgoing and play well with other dogs. So, a Pitbull and Lab mix is likely to be a people-pleaser when it comes to his family. This super-smart mutt will do anything for praise and attention. But, they will need company for much of the day, due to their strong bonds. They are therefore not an ideal pet for anyone who works away from home. Or who cannot bring their dog along with them during the day. Intelligent dogs can become bored and destructive if left to their own devices too often. This can also result in barking. Are They Aggressive? A genuine concern about Pitbulls is their bite reflex. Compared with bites from other dogs, the damage that they can do is much more severe. In a study of over bites over a period of 15 years at one trauma center, 30 injuries were by Pitbulls. The level of injury caused by them was far greater. If you are bitten by a Pitbull you are more likely to have a worse injury, and more likely to die from it. According to its results, the American Pitbull passed the test with a .So, this makes it more even-tempered than Cocker Spaniels and Beagles! However, the CDC itself admits that these numbers are culled from media headlines that could potentially misidentify the breed. A more recent study by Dr. James Serpell at the University of Pennsylvania ran different breeds through a series of tests and found that the top three most aggressive were Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Jack Russell Terriers. Cautions For Pitbull Owners Pitbulls might not be the most likely dog to bite you. But if they do, it is much more likely to lead to severe injury or death. But you need to throw yourself into socialization and definitely meet the Pitbull parent to assess their temperament. Being a responsible owner means giving your dog the tools to curb his anxiety. This involves training, socialization, and lots of praise and support. Given its extremely intelligent parentage, this hybrid responds very well to instructions and can master the basics in no time. Both Pitbull and Lab breeds work best with positive reinforcement. They love to please their owners and are extremely willing. Using punishment to train your puppy is not advised. This can destroy the trust between dog and owner. In addition, it can lead to problems in the future with aggression. Punishing a dog causes them to hide the warning signals that they are unhappy. Use reward-based methods and train together every day to build an even stronger bond between you. Your Labrabull will definitely need regular exercise. As it will be on the larger side and quite active. Importance Of Socialization While Pitbulls have a bad reputation that is not entirely fair, there is some truth to it. The risks of biting is higher than with some breeds, the severity of bites is far worse. Plus, Pitties can be territorial and display some guarding characteristics. So, when you buy a puppy with a Pit parent, you need to commit to socialization as a number one priority. A confident dog is a safer, happier dog. And dogs become confident through early exposure to the situations which have potential to worry them as adults. It is very important to socialize a Pitbull Lab mix puppy as early and often as possible. But there are some serious genetic health conditions that your puppy could inherit. So health screening of both parents is essential. The breeder should provide you with evidence of good hip and elbow scores for both the Labrador and Pitbull parent. They should also show you an eye test for each of them, carried out less than a year ago. The Labrador parent should have no family history of exercise-induced collapse or cruciate ligament problems. The Pitbull parent should have no history of skin problems. Labradors live on average .Pitbull lifespan is around the same. This is about the average lifespan for medium-sized to large breeds. You need to feed your Bullador a well-balanced diet to ensure he gets all the nutrients he needs. Especially because these dogs require so much exercise! Although Pitbull dogs are often great with the kids in their families, the nature of their bite and severity of the injuries they cause is something you need to seriously consider before you bring one into a home with children. Never leave a Pit mix alone and unsupervised with kids, and make sure that they treat him with respect. Well-bred, well-socialized Labrador and Pitbull mixes are a breed that give as much as they get. But giving a rescue Pitbull Lab mix can be very rewarding. For both pup and owner. Check with your local shelters to see if they have any mixed breeds. Some may inherit more Lab genes, others will favor Pitbulls. The only way to know what you are getting is to meet your puppy first, and talk to the breeder. But, there may be additional costs for health check-ups and official documentation. From day one make sure you have visitors to the house at least four times a week. Make sure there is a range of adults and children, and that each new person gives the puppy praise and treats upon arrival. Take your pup to every type of location you think you might visit together. And make sure lots of people say hello to her. Again, if possible, they can give her treats to reward her and help build a positive association. Supervised interaction with other dogs will teach your dog how to play properly, and respect his furry friends. Organised play dates or behaviorial classes can help your puppy learn to be a calm and happy part of a pack. Pitbull Lab mix puppies, breeders or adoption? The Pitbull Lab Mix can be a great pet for the right home. In this article we will look at how well suited the Labrabull is to your family, and give you tips for finding the perfect puppy. We will also give you the information you need to properly feed, care for and groom your dog. And explore their behavior traits and training, exercise and socialization requirements. This guide is packed with information and will help you decide whether an adult Lab Pitbull mix will suit your home and lifestyle. Pitbull Lab Mix Origins? Labradors and Pitbulls have been being bred together informally for years, for pet homes and as ranch dogs. But in recent years with the rise of the designer first generation dog mixes, then are gaining more of a following. Labs are one of the most popular breeds in the US. Their ancestors originated in Canada and they were bred there in the 18th century to aid fisherman who needed a trusted and reliable helper dog. On the flip side, this hard-working, rough and tough canine also has a sweet personality. Today Labs are best described as loyal, intelligent, friendly and eager-to-please. Labs can co-exist with various age groups as well as with a cross-section of other animals. They take to training easily and make Labs a popular choice as police dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs. The Pitbull originated from crossing Bulldogs with Terriers back in the s. Breeds used for fighting, bullbaiting a ratting. Despite their lurid beginnings, the Pitbull is actually an affectionate breed with a fierce loyalty to their owners. Once brought over from the UK to America, Pitbulls were commonly used as farm dogs to protect livestock and herd sheep. They were known for their docile temperament with people and children and were not just working dogs but family pets. Pitbulls are strong, athletic, and courageous dogs, but underneath it all, they are often big softies looking for the same love and attention as any pet. They have expressive eyes, pointed ears and a long fairly straight tail. In other words, given his parentage, your pup can be counted on to be one of the most handsome dogs zipping around the dog park! How Big is the Pitbull Lab mix? The Labrador Pitbull mix is a medium to large, powerful, dog that can reach up to two feet in height and weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds when fully grown. The fur is smooth and shiny, and not difficult to maintain. You can expect the common coat colors to be a solid tan, black, white, yellow, or brown. However, the Pitbull Lab Mix can also come with various colors like the Pitbull; so a brindle is entirely possible! Pitbulls tend to shed on the low to average end of the spectrum. However, a Lab Pitbull Mix could well take after their Labrador parent in the molting department and be more of a heavy shedding dog. Either way they are not a hypoallergenic dog and are not recommended for allergy sufferers. They can also need quite a lot of grooming in the shedding season, despite their short coat. Pitbull Lab Mix Grooming A Pitlab has a silky, short, and dense coat that benefits from brushing to keep it shiny. The Labrador undercoat is not common in this particular mix breed. Due to being a high shedding dog Labs need a good grooming tool for the heavier shedding parts of the year. A weekly brush the rest of the time should be fine. Use a doggie toothbrush and toothpaste to keep his pearly whites clean. And at the same time check for any signs of infection. The Pitbull Lab Mix grooming needs range from low to moderate. The latter was bred in the 19th century to be used in physically punishing ways, such as dogfighting. In America, this tenacious and strong dog was bred with larger canines and was used as a farm dog, who was also called upon to aid in hunting large game. Today, the American Pitbull Terrier retains an alert and protective nature. He is known for his courage, determination, and loyalty, but also comes with a reputation for being a naturally aggressive breed. This is not entirely unfounded. And according to one source on dog bites, in there were 22 Pitbull dog bite fatalities in the US. For the same year, Labradors and their mixes were responsible for 3 deaths. The Pitbull is a banned breed in some countries including the United Kingdom. In regard to this particular mix breed, one source reports that between and , 46 Pitbull Lab Mix attacks had been recorded. Are Pitbull Mixes Aggressive? However, a lot of people believe that this loyal dog has been maligned. Counter-arguments regarding the dangerousness of this breed highlight the fact that until the mids, the Pitbull was not a feared dog. And was actually considered a friendly family pet. This argument identifies the change in attitude as a social construct and media bias rather than any actual increase of aggression in this breed. The unreliability of victim and witness memory and accuracy of identifying dog breeds correctly has also become an area of interest in the Pitbull debate. Some believe that attacking breed is often misidentified when victims report dog bites. It is important to note that it is only the American Pitbull Terrier under scrutiny. Temperaments of other Pitbull breeds, like the American Staffordshire Terrier, have never been called into question. However, we would add a note of caution here. There are plenty of sources now that argue that Pitbulls are less likely to bite than previously thought. Bite Type and Frequency The Pitbull Lab mix is not much more likely to bite than many other popular breeds. However when weighing this up it is important to bear in mind the possible consequences of a bite, should one happen. While no dog bite is pleasant, the American Pitbull has been bred with the physical structure needed to bite hard. With big canine teeth and strong jaws. It holds on. The damage done by their bite has the potential therefore to be far greater than that of a typical dog bite. This is especially relevant in families with small children. This trait could be passed to your Pitbull Lab mix. They will likely be an energetic and loyal dog that loves attention from their owner. If there is more Pitbull temperament in them, your dog will be more reserved and docile. Thorough socialisation will be essential for this pup. If they inherit more Labrador personality they will probably be very social and exuberant. With socialization and good breeding practices, you can have a reasonable expectation that they will get along well with children and possibly other dogs. And will make a good family pet. When it comes to other pets, the Labrador side of your Pitbull Lab Mix has a better chance of getting along with them than the Pitbull does. You should take caution with strangers and other dogs until you know how your animal typically reacts in such situations. Although a pup with a very friendly Pitbull parent, that is well socialized, could be a very friendly and cuddly companion indeed. It is advised to start training young, as early as 8 to 12 weeks old. The longer you wait the more strong-minded your dog will become. With consistent and positive reinforcement training methods, they can be a terrific and well-mannered companion. It should be noted that punishment based training is not recommended as a modern training method and it has the potential to mask problems and cause or exacerbate aggression. Therefore access to things like a yard for self-exercise, fetch with the owner, and space and time to run around is important. Owners should be aware of health issues discussed below such as Hip and Elbow Dysplasia and Exercise Induced Collapse EIC and adjust exercise routines for their dog in consult with a vet. Larger dogs generally have greater issues with hip and elbow dysplasia, and both parent breeds are prone to hip dysplasia. In addition, gastric bloat and hypothyroidism may be potential issues for your pup. You should inquire with your breeder about heart, eye, skin, and ear issues. Purchasing your puppy from a reputable breeder decreases the chances of owning a dog with unexpected, surprising health problems. You should test both parents for health conditions that commonly affect their breed. Like any breed, they have some minor health issues to be aware of, like skin problems and allergies. The Pitbull Lab cross has a similar life expectancy to that of the parent breeds. Labradors are one of the most popular family dogs. They have a friendly and affectionate nature. On the other hand, Pitbulls have had mixed reviews in this department. You probably associate Pitbulls with dog fighting and aggression. Historically, though, they are known for being loyal family dogs that are good with children. This mixed-breed would make a good family pet if bred and socialized properly like any other dog. When visiting a litter, be sure to observe the temperament of the Pitbull parent and socialize your pup early to help increase the chances of a friendly, gentle companion. Unlike Labs, Pitbulls do not get on well with other animals so your pup will do best as the only furry child. Another option would be to get a purebred Lab or another kind of mix. Rescuing a PitLab All too often designer dogs end up relinquished by owners who were ultimately unable to care for their needs. Not all mixed breeds have their own specific rescue. However, breed rescues for the purebred parents often take in related mixes as well. Pitbull Lab Mix Puppies With the increasing popularity of mixed-breed puppies, it is important to find a responsible breeder that follows the recommended guidelines for all health testing. Make sure they provide a clean and loving environment for their dogs. Working with a good breeder is the best way to increase your chances of a healthy and happy Pitlab Mix Puppy. Pet stores and puppy mills have a reputation for producing unhealthy puppies, sometimes with more challenging temperaments. Unethical breeding practices and poor treatment of the parent breeds, especially with the Pitbull parent, will not produce the desirable traits you are hoping for in your new Pitbull Lab Mix Puppy. Labrador Pitbull Mix Breeders It goes without saying, but you should only deal with an ethical, reputable breeder that can ensure your Labrabull was crossbred from parents free of medical issues. A good breeder is happy to provide evidence of clean health checks and to answer all of your questions about the Bullador. Plus, your breeder should be asking you questions to make sure you are equipped to handle this large, energetic breed. If you buy from a breeder, ask about the temperaments of your Pitlab parents. You can also ask to see the bloodlines of both of the parents for any clues. And If possible, ask to see the parent so that you can observe their temperament for yourself. Any sign of aggression in the parents is a red flag. Unfortunately, unethical breeding practices go hand in hand with the increase in demand for designer dog breeds. Do your research and ensure you are choosing a responsible breeder that can provide you with a healthy and happy pup.

When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Your Labrador puppy is full of energy and enthusiasm. Because he descends from a long line of hunting and working dogs, he needs firm direction, love and consistency to reach his potential. Training and Socializing Step 1 Set boundaries as soon as you bring your Labrador puppy home. This breed is excessively playful and curious. Step 2 Enroll your little Lab in a puppy kindergarten class as soon as possible. Step 3 Exercise your Lab as often as possible, but at least twice a day for 30 minutes each time. Labs are high-drive dogs and they need a chance to burn off excess energy. You can avoid many behavior problems just by giving your Lab adequate exercise. Step 4 Train your Lab to respond to the basic dog obedience commands. He should sit, stay, heel, down and come on command. This ensures that you can control your Lab in any situation just by issuing a verbal command. Step 5 Use positive reinforcement for good behavior and avoid scolding. Labs love pleasing their owners and they will do just about anything to get in your good graces. If your puppy is acting out and demanding your attention, turn away and ignore him. When he minds, praise him, pet him and give him treats. Step 6 Expose your puppy to new things. Take him to the dog park. Teach him to sit while children pet him. Take him for rides in the car. Labs should learn social manners early on. Diet, Health and Grooming Step 1 Visit your veterinarian within two days of bringing your puppy home. Your puppy will need regular vaccinations to keep him healthy. Step 2 Feed your Labrador puppy a high quality large-breed puppy food for the first six months of his life. After that, ask your vet about switching him over to an adult food to ensure healthy bone growth. Step 3 Brush your Labrador at least once a week with a rounded-bristle dog brush. About twice a year, your Lab will shed heavily for about three weeks. Brush him daily during that time. Labs can have sensitive skin and frequent bathing can irritate it, which can leave your little guy scratching up a storm. More Articles. They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts!

Teething toys are designed to help the owners manage those symptoms and keep the dog healthy and happy, as well, during this period of discomfort. Here is how teething toys can help. Mange frequent chewing: The dog tends to show enhanced chewing tendency, he will even try to chew other hard items of the house, such as furniture, or rubber materials or, even shoes. Many times, this is mistaken for destructive behavior , which may not be the case. Teething toys made of rubber or super-strong nylon offer ease from itching and dogs can chew these without calling for any harm or posing harm to other useful things of the house. Bleeding or swelling in gums: Just like there is little blood coming out when the baby teeth fall in a human child, GSD also experiences swelling or bleeding in gums at the site of teething. Many teething toys filled or coated with medicinal gels can alleviate the pain and swelling. Loss of appetite: Because of pain in the gums, dogs find it difficult to eat. So, they will show a loss of appetite. READ : Top 10 E-collars for German shepherds: Your Obligatory aid in German shepherd training So, you need to have a stock of toys and treats handy to help the dog through the tough phase of teething. Teething Toys best suited for aggressive chewers like GSD 1. Nylabone Power Chew Textured Dog Chew Ring Toy Easy grip, chewing-friendly design, and great attention diverting ability — this teething toy can be a perfect choice when the dog tends to show high chewing tendency. For an aggressive chewer like GSD, this toy offers a delightful option. Its size fits the gripping ability of your big poonch too. So, the moment you find any teething discomfort displayed by that furry angel, just hand him over this chewing and teething toy designed to complement gentle to extreme chewing style. The hidden treasure lies in its ridgy design and protruded nubs that actually can help in maintaining dental hygiene by preventing tartar or plaque build-up. Check price at Amazon 2. Kong Natural Teething Rubber Perfect fit for power chewing typical of a GSD, this teething toy is an ideal choice for keeping the dog occupied and happy. The main deliverables of this teething toy for GSD are comforting from anxiety issues and relief from boredom. Also, these make a very good play material and offer dogs an activity to do. A dog barking or chewing too much can be given this toy as a distraction. This toy can be freezer with some stuff before giving to the dog, this adds to the challenge and makes playing more fun. Check price at Amazon 3. The tangerine color of this teething toy enables easy enticing of the dog into playing with it. An easy toy to train the dog to fetch or catch, this teething and chewing toy is completely safe. Check price at Amazon 4. This teething toy is designed to fit the chewing needs and tendencies of big as well as medium-sized puppies. The spiky design offers more friction and grinds the plaque away. Anxiety and boredom issues can be managed by keeping the dog engaged in this teething toy. Dogs are bundles of energy. They need to have a way to vent out their energy to stay calm or less agitated. This teething toy provides exactly that premise for offering better deviation from the destructive behavior or from chewing on the furniture, balls, shoes, and other useful things of the house. Check price at Amazon 5. The super tough nylon material makes it an ideal teething toy for aggressive chewers like German Shepherds. The toy comes infused with baking soda to help the dog parents maintain the oral hygiene of their loving pet. Thermal Plastic Rubber nubs on the surface can offer good material for handling the teething discomforts that dogs experience in their gums. Check price at Amazon 6. You can stuff it with flavorful peanut butter or any other filling of choice and freeze, before giving it to the dog for playing. They are filled with natural marrow with no added additives. The natural marrow bones are bacteria-free and safe to consume. The bones are handpicked and inspected, to enhance quality and consistency. They are odor-free, have a perfect texture and thickness. They keep the teeth clean and effectively remove tartar build-up and plaque. Pros They are sourced from grass-fed free-range cattle Made from one natural ingredient Effectively removes tartar build-up and plaque They have a perfect thickness Cons Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Bones If you are looking for grain-free bones for your German Shepherd, the Blue Buffalo wilderness wild bones are a great option. These bones are great for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach. They contain zero poultry by-products, and they are formulated to strengthen the canine. They are perfectly roasted for your German Shepherd to enjoy a rich meaty taste. They are natural and have no artificial ingredients or additives. The bones are gluten-free, soy-free, and wheat-free. For a large breed like a german shepherd, these bones last long and can withstand aggressive chewing. They are stuffed with beneficial ingredients to keep your dog healthy. The bones are formulated to give your dog a healthy jaw. The rich taste makes the dog want to chew throughout, therefore strengthening the jaw. Pros They have a rich beef taste They are slow-roasted to preserve the taste They are natural. Best chew toys for German Shepherd puppies German Shepherd Chewing The larger the dog, the more high energy they tend to be. Chewing is a completely normal way for a dog to use up some of that energy: it exercises their jaws, cleans their teeth and gums, and passes a little time. Look for rubber toys that they can pick up and carry around. The rubber should be hard enough to endure a mauling, but not so hard that it could damage their teeth. It has a bacon scent to make it even more appealing to dogs. Along with being a safe and indestructible chew toy, it helps clean teeth as well. It will keep your German Shepherd satisfied, entertained, and healthy. The ring shape means that your dog will rarely chew the same spot twice, which reduces the possibility of wear. The Happy Puppy Site team have owned plenty of Kong dog toys, and they never fail to impress us. Its hollow design allows you to add things like treats or peanut butter to keep your dog satisfied for even longer. The Kong Extreme line is designed for aggressive chewers, and will hold up against most high energy dogs. It has holes on the ends, which are perfect for adding treats for your German Shepherd to dig out. And most importantly, this bone stands strong against the toughest teeth. It uses the same durable material as all Kong Extreme toys, and the tire shape and texture are designed to stand up to intense gnawing. It keeps all of our dogs entertained and can withstand prolonged play. The Y-shape makes it easier for dogs to hold as they chew, and the bones are made with real food flavor. This bone will keep your German Shepherd busy, satisfy their urge to chew, and helps clean teeth while they chew. It comes in bacon and bbq flavors, and is made in the USA with locally sourced materials. The curved shape of the bone make them easy to hold, and cares for their gums and teeth. Natural Chew Toys for German Shepherds Variety is the spice of life, and mixing up ultra-hardwearing synthetic toys with toys made from natural materials is a great way to keep your German Shepherd interested. The extra-large size makes sure that it will withstand your German Shepherd chewing. It contains no plastic or chemicals. Best Chew Toys for German Shepherd Puppies When shopping for good chew toys for German Shepherd puppies, you need to make sure the toy can help them through teething while also withstanding their already-strong jaws. It is a pliable yet durable toy that teething puppies will find soft on their gums. The ridges can hold peanut butter or other such treats as an added bonus for your pup. And our strong chewing puppies have all loved them. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. The unique molded shape and durable material made it a must for every dog owner. German Shepherd puppies are very active and will need a lot of exercise time to burn out all of their energy. Because of this, most of their exercise routine should engage their natural chasing and herding instincts. You should also include things to channel their wolf-like instincts of tugging and chewing. Aside from being fun, chewing is beneficial for multiple reasons that help him grow into a happy, healthy adult dog. Mental Health Chewing is a healthy coping mechanism that allows German Shepherd puppies to self-soothe. This is especially helpful for puppies with separation anxiety or noise sensitivity. Dental Health Chewing is extremely important for puppies in particular. Biting down allows teething puppies to stimulate blood flow in their gums and ease the pain. A good selection of chew toys prevents this sort of destructive behavior by redirecting their chewing instinct. Helping Their Ears Stand Up Another important German Shepherd-specific benefit of chew toys is that chewing builds the muscle at the base of the ear, allowing the rest of the ear to stand. To truly know how to give your German Shepherd puppy the best of the best, you need to know what makes the best chew toys. Durability The most important thing you need to look for in a chew toy is durability. Since German Shepherd puppies are power chewers, look for a strong, long-lasting chew toy. Material Chew toys are made to be bitten and chomped on, so look for toys that are made of strong, non-toxic materials that are safe and strong. Hard Plastic Material Chew toys that are made from hard plastic are more than just choking hazards. They could also cause broken teeth, bleeding gums, and internal damage if eaten. Stuffed Squeaky Toys The chewing and tugging instincts of a German Shepherd make squeaky toys a bad idea. The stuffing and squeaker can cause a wide range of hazards and are better avoided. These are our top 15 picks for the best chew toys for German Shepherd puppies. This flavored dog bone is equally delicious and durable for intense chewers like German Shepherd puppies. Bonus points go to treats who also freshen puppy breath, have all natural ingredients, and are soft to chew. So with all of this information what are the best bones for German Shepherd puppies? These treats are all natural and contain no artificial colors or preservatives. The soft texture also ease these pains by massaging the areas when chewed on. Because of their affordability, natural ingredients, soft texture, and thin design N-Bone Puppy Teething Treats are one of the best bones for German Shepherd puppies. Like N-Bone, Nylabone also has no artificial preservatives, no artificial colors, and does not include added sugar or salt. Anything above that will be too big and increase their risk of choking, and anything to small will be eaten too quickly. Because of their affordability, long lasting formula, and the added benefits of the Omega-3 Nylabone is one of the best bones for German Shepherd puppies. These are less of a bone like treat and more of a bone shaped treat, but they contain some of the same benefits as the other bones listed on this list. This product gives your dogs the same gum and mental stimulation as a normal bone with its rubbery texture. Put treats in the middle of this bone to keep your puppy interested in the bone. If you really want to spoil your pup you can put peanut butter in the middle of the bone and stick it in the freezer until frozen. The harden texture will make chewing it more fun and satisfying for your dog and watching them lick all the peanut butter off is guaranteed to give you a good laugh and some priceless photos. Conclusion Feeding your puppy bones can be dangerous, but with proper supervision and if given the right size it can be fine. From being reusable, thin, natural, and having extra supplements like Omega-3, these products are sure to wow your German Shepherd while keeping them healthy and strong at the same time. If you decide to use some other bones for your puppy make sure you ask yourself the following questions: Can this break into sharp pieces that can cut my puppy? Is this too hard? Is this item too big? Can my puppy choke on it? With these 3 questions in mind you can rest assured that you now know how to pick the best bones for German Shepherd puppies.