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He has tremendous ball drive, is an outstanding elite level dock jumper and a strong and powerful protection dog. Cheryl feels this breeding will produce physically stunning and graceful dogs with excellent working ability for agility, dock jumping, nosework, obedience, rally and perhaps biting sports too! Lowell Road, St. Johns Michigan All rights reserved. Click here for detailed copyright notice. We use cookies to enable essential functionality on our website, and analyze website traffic. By clicking Accept you consent to our use of cookies. Read about how we use cookies. Cookie settings Accept Your Cookie Settings We use cookies to enable essential functionality on our website, and analyze website traffic. Cookie Categories Essential On These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our websites. You cannot refuse these cookies without impacting how our websites function. You can block or delete them by changing your browser settings, as described under the heading "Managing cookies" in the Privacy and Cookies Policy. Analytics Off These cookies collect information that is used in aggregate form to help us understand how our websites are being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are. Save settings. Life Span Did You Know? The Dutch Shepherd is a herding dog that originated in the Netherlands in the s. The Dutch Shepherd was a versatile, intelligent, and independent working dog commonly used by farmers and shepherds to guard flocks of sheep, herd them, and keep them away from crops. They were also known to be a reliable farmhand that would herd the cows for milking and pull milk carts. The Dutch Shepherd would also alert farm owners when strangers came onto the property and even kept the chickens away from the garden kept for use in the kitchen. These dogs were bred to be sturdy in order to adapt to herding over harsh rural regions and so that they had few demands in a sparse environment. The first breed standard in the Netherlands was developed in .The AKC currently recognizes the Dutch Shepherd a part of the Miscellaneous Class, which means the breed does not yet have full recognition. But, they have been given the Herding Group designation. Although they have maintained their herding and farm dog skills, the Dutch Shepherd is also a good fit for work as a police dog, search and rescue dog, tracking dog, and even a guide dog! A Dutch Shepherd is a loyal, affectionate companion and a highly intelligent dog breed. They make a great addition to a family as they get along well with children and other animals. These dogs are also active, alert, and watchful, which makes them a good watchdog. Because they were bred to be guard dogs and herding dogs, they may be suspicious or wary of strangers. As with any dog, socialization early and often results in a well-rounded dog that is confident in a variety of situations and with different people. Because the Dutch Shepherd is a high energy working dog, they are generally not a good fit for apartments. These dogs thrive in larger homes with yards where they can run or on a farm or ranch where they can roam and work. They tend to be a good fit for most climates. As with many dog breeds, they can be sensitive to extreme heat or cold. The Dutch Shepherd is a generally healthy dog breed. As with any dog breed, there are some health conditions to be aware of including hip and elbow dysplasia, thyroid issues , and goniodysplasia. Goniodysplasia is an eye defect that can result in small drainage openings, which can prevent eye fluid from outflowing normally. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of both of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns you may have. High intelligence and an intuitive nature make the Dutch Sheperd highly trainable. This dog breed is able to work alongside their owners or deal independently with their tasks. But, obedience training is necessary to keep this dog mentally stimulated and to let them know what they are expected to do. This dog breed has independence and a strong character that can be a challenge for first-time dog owners when it comes to training, which can result in an obstinate dog that makes its own decisions. Dutch Shepherds tend to be a better fit for active owners and families who have experience with dogs. First-time owners can do well with this dog, but enlisting the help of a professional dog trainer or enrolling in training classes is recommended for effective obedience training. Common coat colors are gold brindle or silver brindle, but the rough-haired coat type can sometimes be so curly that it loses its brindle look. Each coat type has its own grooming needs. The short-haired coat type requires brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during the heavier shedding sessions twice a year. The long-haired coat type only requires brushing about once a week. The rough-haired coat type tends to be quite curly and only needs to be brushed once a month. During seasonal changes twice a year, their coat also needs to be hand-stripped to help keep them comfortable. For all coat types, bathing is on an as-needed basis. Checking in on their nails monthly and trimming as needed is usually sufficient. You want to make sure their ears are dry, free of wax buildup, clean, and clear of debris. This can help prevent ear infections. Dental care for dogs is often overlooked, which is why dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. You can also use vet-approved dental hygiene chews or treats, or even a specially-formulated dental care diet, to help supplement your efforts. By getting them used to it early and keeping it a positive experience, you can help make grooming a much easier process for both you and your dog throughout their life. It may even become a bonding time that your dog looks forward to! This dog breed is a working dog with a lot of energy, so they need more than just a few walks every day. The Dutch Shepherd is known for being a competent working dog, which means they need a job to do to be happy. That, paired with their trainability and high energy, make them a good fit for dog sports. Generally, Dutch Shepherds are a good fit for herding trials, tracking events, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Dutch Shepherd usually stands between inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Dutch Shepherd generally lives years. They were often tasked with herding the sheep to pasture in the morning and bringing them back to the barn in the evening and expected to do so on their own without prodding or guidance. Featured Dutch Shepherd Article. This video highlights how critically important it is to provide a working protection dog breed with appropriate training and socialization so the dog knows the difference between a friendly person or animal and a potentially dangerous situation. In other words, the Dutch Shepherd is thought to not be a manmade dog breed. In an age where dogs come in literally every shape and size, finding a natural dog breed is quite rare. It also means many see a strong resemblance between the Dutch Shepherd and the wild wolf, which tends to be the case when there has been less human manipulation of the breed genome. Dutch Shepherds were found in rural areas and were then developed further to work as all-purpose herding, livestock guarding, and droving dog. The breed was first noticed in The Netherlands, which is where the dog gets their breed name. The German Shepherd was always intended to be the perfect herding and livestock guarding dog. The breed founder, a former German cavalry officer named Captain Max von Stephanitz, was said to have crossed the first German Shepherds with wild wolves to obtain his ideal dog. Today, German Shepherds are second only to the Belgian Malinois as the breed of choice for K-9, military, police, and private protection and security work. This bodes well for any hybrid breeding program built on these two breed lines. Dutch Shepherd personality and temperament Dutch Shepherds are herding dogs through and through. Dutch Shepherds also have a strong prey drive and chase instinct, which means if your family already includes other small prey-type family pets, they may not be safe with a Dutch Shepherd in the house. Overall, Dutch Shepherds are lively, smart and fun-loving, but can be somewhat stubborn, too. This is common with herding dogs that have been bred to work independently from their people. Since a Dutch Shepherd will always have a mind of their own, it will be up to you to train and socialize your dog to behave in appropriate ways for daily life in a family and local neighborhood. German Shepherd personality and temperament The German Shepherd dog breed would not be as popular as this dog is without some pretty stellar personality and temperament traits. However, the GSD, as fans of the breed call them, can also be a real handful, especially in puppyhood. These dogs are also herding dogs, which means your German Shepherd is going to herd you, your kids, your pets, and anyone else they regard as under their care and protection. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix personality and temperament Overall, the Dutch Shepherd and the German Shepherd dog breeds are actually quite similar in their temperament and personality. Both dog breeds need a similar type and level of early and ongoing socialization and training to temper their protective and herding instincts and socialize well into a family and community. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd Mix: Size, Height, and Weight One of the big concerns many people have when they are trying to decide on a dog breed is size. How big will your Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd dog grow up to be? How tall will your dog be? Will you be able to find space for a big dog bed, travel crate, food, and toys? Dutch Shepherd size, height, and weight According to the North American Dutch Shepherd Rescue charity, these dogs typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds and stand between 23 and 26 inches tall paw pads to shoulders. Females are generally slightly shorter and smaller than males in adulthood. German Shepherd size, height, and weight According to Vetstreet , the German Shepherd dog typically weighs between 50 and 90 pounds and stands 22 to 26 inches tall from paw pads to shoulder tops. Here again, females are typically but not always slightly shorter and leaner than males in adulthood. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd size, height, and weight Dutch Shepherds and German Shepherds are quite similar in height, weight, and overall build and size. These dogs are built to stay constantly on the move, herding and moving groups of livestock and keeping watch while navigating difficult terrain. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd Mix: Training and Exercise Needs When you choose a large, powerful dog like the Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix, you also take on the great responsibility of helping to train and socialize your dog to live in a family and community. Your dog will need to learn from you how to tell the difference between a friend and a threat. Your dog will also rely on you to get their daily activity and exercise needs met. Dutch Shepherd training and exercise needs The Dutch Shepherd is smart, athletic, and energetic. However, as Precision K-9 Training points out, these same traits mean that you should never ever use negative or punishment-based training methods with a Dutch Shepherd. A Dutch Shepherd dog will be smart enough to quickly learn new skills provided they are taught in a positive, affirming, rewards-based framework. Dutch Shepherds can be destructive if they are neglected, isolated from their human family, or too often left alone. These dogs want to be with their people all the time and need lots of attention to stay healthy and happy. Training must be positive and affirming — and it must also be frequent, early, and ongoing. A German Shepherd needs to learn early in life how to manage their inbuilt chase and protection instincts. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd training and exercise needs The Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix dog is going to be a high-intensity companion canine to own and care for. Your dog will need plenty of attention, play, and activity every single day. If you leave a Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd alone, you are likely to come home to a big mess made by a bored, lonely pup. So it is important to consider whether your time and lifestyle will permit making your dog the center of your world. Some people are quite allergic to protein dander found on the skin and in the saliva and urine of dogs, which can make learning about shedding even more important. In this section, we take a look at whether, how much, and how often a Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd dog might shed. Dutch Shepherd coat care, shedding, and grooming The Dutch Shepherd has the traditional double layer working dog coat that nearly all working dog breeds have. In puppyhood, a Dutch Shepherd will have a single layer puppy coat. Around the age of six months, the puppy coat will start to shed out and the adult double layer coat will begin to grow in, which may take another six months to conclude. During this time, you will see a lot of shedding, and this will be something to get used to because Dutch Shepherds shed both year-round and seasonally. To further complicate matters, Dutch Shepherds are bred in three coat types: short hair, long hair, and rough hair. Each coat type has different brushing and grooming needs. The short hair is the easiest coat type to care for and the least prone to tangles and mats. To best predict the amount of brushing, grooming, shedding and overall coat care your puppy might need in adulthood, it is important to find out as much as possible about the coat type of the Dutch Shepherd parent dog. German Shepherd coat care, shedding, and grooming German Shepherd dogs have the traditional double layer working dog coat. The outer layer is medium length and the inner layer is shorter and very thick. During coat blows, you may want to brush daily. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix coat care, shedding, and grooming As you can see, here is one of the areas of greatest uncertainty when you choose a Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix dog. Either way, however, you can look forward to lots of year-round and seasonal shedding. Unfortunately, as you will notice in this section, the German Shepherd has an all-too-short life expectancy. Since both dogs are prone to similar joint issues, it is important to take your time and do your research to pick the healthiest, sturdiest puppy. However, the American Dutch Shepherd Association highlights the following known possible genetic health issues you need to be aware of: Hip dysplasia.

It comes in a large bottle, size 32 oz. Bacteria, mold, fleas, parasites, fungus, and more can get trapped and hidden within a Golden Retrievers furry coat. This shampoo contains ingredients that treat skin scaling, hydrate the skin, promote healing, relieve parasite infections, and remove fungus and bacteria. This shampoo is known for its fast-acting formula that also heals rashes, bald spots, and dry, itchy skin. Veterinary Formula works to provide quality medical ingredients at an affordable price for pet owners. This shampoo leaves your dog clean and smelling fresh without having to use any water. Ingredients found in this shampoo are paraben-free, alcohol-free, and plant-based with no harsh chemicals. If your Golden Retriever likes to avoid bath time at all costs, do not hesitate to try this waterless, no-rinse shampoo. This shampoo is specifically targeted to reduce the amount of shedding in dogs like Golden Retrievers. It contains Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that will get your dog clean and smelling fresh. There are no parabens or dyes in the ingredients that would harm your dog. You can purchase a 16 oz. Best Puppy Shampoo for Golden Retrievers While many of the above shampoos would work great for your Golden puppy, below are a couple options that we recommend if you are looking for something specifically for a puppy. This shampoo contains all-natural ingredients that are safe for dogs of all ages. It provides relief for allergies with an added hypoallergenic lotion, which contains antifungal and antibacterial ingredients that work to reduce flea yeast. Not only do the ingredients in this shampoo smell great, but they also keep odors away for extended periods. Do not hesitate to get a 17 oz. The mild and natural ingredients in this puppy shampoo make it safe for dogs of all ages and help prevent irritation to the eyes, nose, and paws. There are no harsh chemicals, colorants, or fragrances, which make it completely safe and well recommended by veterinarians. This fantastic all-purpose shampoo for puppies comes in a 16 oz. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shampoo for Golden Retrievers When it comes to choosing the right shampoo for your golden retriever, there are several factors to consider. Look for shampoos that are specifically formulated for dogs and have a pH level between 6. You should also consider the ingredients in the shampoo, as some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients. As mentioned before, Golden Retrievers have a double coat that will easily trap unwanted dirt, smells, pests, sweat, and more. To keep your dog clean and smelling fresh, you will want to bathe and groom it frequently. The number of baths you give your dog should be based on its activity level, skin sensitivity, allergies, and hair length. For example, if your Golden Retriever has more sensitive skin, bathing your dog too frequently can lead to skin dryness and irritation. So if you find your dog has these symptoms, try reducing the frequency of baths and introducing a moisturized shampoo. Having the right shampoo for your dog will allow it to stay cleaner and smell fresh longer. Tips for Bathing a Golden Retriever When bathing a Golden Retriever, you want the experience to be both enjoyable for you and your dog. Below are some brief tips to help the process go smoothly. For a more in-depth look, read our article How to Bathe a Golden Retriever. Sample a few different types at first until you find the one best for your dog. Brush your dog before the bath. You will want to prep your dog before each bath by brushing away excess fur and removing tangles. Be consistent. Just like children, dogs will feel more comfortable in a familiar place with an established routine. Use the same bathtub or area of the yard each time you bathe your dog. Have everything with you. The last thing you want to do is get your dog watered down and then realize you are missing an essential bath time item. Make sure you have everything you need before you start, so you never have to leave your dog unattended. Be sure to have a comfortable water temperature. Select a water temperature that is comfortable for your dog. It may be tempting to use cold water, but treat your dog like a child and provide it with the right water temperature. Warmer water will also do a better job at cleaning than cold water. Follow the directions on the shampoo bottle. Each type of shampoo is different. Some are tear-free and safe for eyes, paws, and nose; others are not. The shampoo bottle will tell you how to lather, scrub, and rinse your dog to get the best results possible. Dry your dog. After each bath, you should dry your dog with a towel or blow dryer rather than letting it air dry. This will keep it warmer and reduce the amount of water that drips or is shaken off. Do Golden Retrievers Need a Conditioner? The question of whether to use a conditioner on a Golden Retriever is a common one. Lots of great shampoo products include some conditioning elements in their formula, so if you are unsure if you want to use a pure conditioner, this might be an excellent way to go. Also, if you are using a high-quality shampoo for your dog, then using a conditioner might not even be necessary. If you decide to use one, there are several benefits to using a dog conditioner. You do not always need to apply conditioner right after shampooing your dog. There can be some adverse effects when using a conditioner on your dog. If you see any of these symptoms, then stop using the conditioner and just wash with shampoo. Some symptoms might include skin irritation, weakened hair shafts, or trapped dirt after applying the conditioner. Do not attempt to use a human conditioner on your dog. When it comes to washing your dog, always try to use dog-specific products. Tips on Reducing Odor? It will also help significantly in reducing its unpleasant odors; however, a good shampoo is not the only thing needed to keep a dog smelling fresh with a healthy coat. Test out different shampoos for your dog until you find one that keeps it smelling fresh longer. Increase grooming. Wash its bedding weekly. For more information on solving your dogs odor problems, see our article Do Golden Retrievers Smell. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Bathing Your Golden Retriever Bathing your golden retriever may seem like a simple task, but there are several common mistakes that you should avoid. One mistake is not brushing your golden before the bath, as this can lead to tangles and mats in their coat. To prevent this, place a cotton ball in each ear and remove them once the bath is complete. Use only the recommended amount of shampoo, and make sure to rinse thoroughly. Instead, use a low heat setting or let them air dry. Because there are so many different dog shampoos on the market, try out a few different ones recommended in this article that you think will meet the needs of your dog. Once you find the one you like, stick with that shampoo to provide your dog with a healthy coat of fur. Remember always to avoid using human products. Use a dog conditioner if you feel it is necessary, or select a shampoo that has conditioner added. Or, if you are more interested in different options for dog brushes, check out our article Best Dog Brushes for Golden Retrievers. She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Because of this, you want to look for hypoallergenic shampoos. If your dog has an allergy to oat proteins, for example, be sure not to use a shampoo that contains oatmeal. You also want to avoid any artificial fragrances, perfumes, or colors for this same reason. To reduce skin irritation , look for shampoos that are specially formulated for dogs and are pH balanced. Deodorizers Deodorizers in dog shampoos can be helpful when you have a dog that likes to spend a great deal of time getting dirty. No one likes sharing a house with a stinky pup, so deodorizers can make a big difference. The important thing is that the deodorizing ingredients are natural and not too harsh. Brightening Ingredients Golden Retrievers have beautiful blonde coats , but their fur can sometimes look dull and dingy. Be sure to look for natural ingredients. Making it a safe and gentle product for your fur baby. The shampoo contains omega-3 and -6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Featured Image Credit: pixels, Shutterstock Contents. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. The shampoo is backed by over 2, positive reviews and a high-star rating, proving its effectiveness in the pet care community. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential cons of the product: the price may increase according to some customers, and the long-lasting fragrance may not be as long-lasting as expected. Additionally, the 16 oz bottle size might not be enough for larger dogs or more frequent bathing, leading you to purchase more frequently. HONEYDEW Cleansing Dog Shampoo Cleansing Dog Shampoo for Smelly Dogs - Refreshing Lavender Scent Dog Shampoo - Try our popular dog shampoo formulas handcrafted to cleanse and moisturize dry skin and fur for a pet shampoo for dogs Deodorizing Dog Shampoo - You can trust our dog body wash and oatmeal shampoo for dogs for a pet deodorizer that removes dirt and odors thanks to potent lavender oil for dogs in our dog odor shampoo Big and Small Dog Wash - Whether looking for a puppy shampoo for small dogs or a gentle dog cleaner for older dogs we got you covered with our versatile oatmeal lavender dog shampoo for all dogs Check Price on Amazon We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. This dog shampoo is a solid choice for keeping your Golden Retriever clean and smelling fresh with its moisturizing and deodorizing properties. It also contains lavender essential oil, which helps to combat unpleasant doggy odors. Its gentle nature allows you to even wash around their ears without causing irritation. Its moisturizing and deodorizing properties make it suitable for Golden Retrievers, helping to keep them clean and comfortable. These ingredients not only clean their hair but also lock in moisture, resulting in a fresh and healthy coat. You no longer have to worry about unexpected odors when friends and family come to visit. Specially formulated to reduce shedding in dogs, this shampoo enhances the effectiveness of deshedding tools. It is made with natural ingredients that help control excessive shedding by promoting healthy skin and coat. Other natural ingredients, including calendula extract, chamomile extract, and papaya leaf extract have soothing properties and help soothe dry and itchy skin. Cruelty-free and made without sulfates, colorants, or other harmful ingredients, this gentle shampoo is completely safe for regular use on young puppies or adult dogs. This tearless shampoo is made with the mildest ingredients to make bath time more pleasant for both you and your pup. Additionally, their active lifestyle means they tend to pick up dirt that hangs onto their coat, and since they are high shedders, you can expect them to leave that dirt around your home! A good shampoo is a must, since you will need to bathe your golden retriever once every four to six weeks or more often if they tend to get dirty. Unless your golden retriever has a specific skin condition for which they need a specific vet-approved product, when choosing the best dog shampoos for goldens, consider the following factors. Natural Ingredients: You should always avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals such as parabens and phosphates. Since golden retrievers tend to be prone to allergies, their skin and coats can greatly benefit from the use of hypoallergenic dog shampoos. Odor Control: Naturally energetic and active, golden retrievers like to play and can get stinky in no time! If you need help keeping your dog smelling fresh, look for a shampoo with deodorizing properties. Hydration: Whether or not your golden has skin problems, you should look for a shampoo that will keep their skin properly hydrated. Puppies benefit from different ingredients and formulations than adult dogs, and if your dog has sensitive skin, you may need to fork out money for a more expensive shampoo. Similarly, you can get deshedding shampoos to help you manage specific problems such as shedding, fleas and ticks, or dandruff and similar issues. Below is a list of the different types of shampoos you might want to consider for your dog. Not only do puppies have more sensitive skin than adult dogs, but they also have sensitive eyes. For this reason, look for mild and tearless puppy shampoos that are formulated to make the bathing process less stressful and more enjoyable for both you and your pooch. Flea And Tick This type of shampoo can be natural or chemical and is designed to kill fleas and ticks. For the best results, you will have to work it into the coat and leave it for 10 minutes to sit before rinsing. Depending on the type you choose, some flea and tick shampoos have repelling properties and will keep these blood-sucking pests at bay for some time. You can find out more about flea and tick shampoos for dogs here. Medicated Dog Shampoos These shampoos are designed to tackle skin conditions and have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic effects. If your golden retriever suffers from allergies, skin mites, seborrhea, or has a yeast infection, your vet might prescribe a medicated dog shampoo. All-Purpose Shampoo A good quality, all-purpose shampoo is essential if you want to keep your dog clean. Look for one that has natural ingredients and is hypoallergenic. Chances are, they are going to get dirty often and need regular bathing. Exactly how often you need to bathe your dog depends on their specific coat and activity level, but even dogs that spend most of their time inside need to be bathed at least once a month. Here are our top tips for making bathing your golden retriever as easy and effective as possible. Brush your dog before bathing them to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris from its coat. Make sure to soak the coat all the way to the skin so you can work in the lather properly and remove all dirt and grime. When bathing your golden retriever, place a towel or a mat inside the tub. Use treats to entice your goldie to get into and stay in the tub during bathing. Generally speaking, you should bathe your golden retriever once every four to six weeks to keep their luxurious coat clean. However, if your goldie tends to get dirty quickly, you can bathe them more often. What can I use to bathe my golden retriever? Make sure you are using dog shampoo whenever you bathe your golden retriever. Dogs have a different skin pH than people, and dog shampoos are specially formulated as to not dry or damage their skin. Can I use human shampoo on my golden retriever? You should never use human shampoo on your dog! This is because human hair and skin are slightly acidic, and therefore our shampoos are formulated with a slightly acidic pH, of 5. Dog skin and hair has a more neutral pH of around 6. If you regularly wash your dog with human shampoo, you can disrupt the acidic mantle that protects them, making them vulnerable to parasites, viruses, and bacteria. Can I bathe my dog with baby shampoo? You technically can bathe your dog with baby shampoo because it is designed with a neutral pH to accommodate the more sensitive skin of babies. However, you are still better off choosing a specialized dog shampoo for your golden rather than relying on baby shampoo as an alternative. After all, you are what you eat. A diet that is rich in healthy fats, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, and fish oils will give your dog the nutrients they need to grow and maintain a healthy coat. Regular brushing, using a good dog brush , to remove dirt and debris and spread oils throughout the coat can also make a big difference. How do you bathe a golden retriever at home? Many first-time owners worry about how they will manage to bathe their golden at home. Fortunately, goldens are actually one of the easier breeds to bathe. They are cooperative, highly trainable, and love water, so they are more likely to tolerate a good soak and scrub than many other breeds. The key is to be gentle but firm and to teach your dog the behavior that you expect at bathtime through positive reinforcement training. Another important thing to remember is that bathing is going to be a wet and messy process, so do it outside, in the shower, or somewhere similar, and watch out for slippery floors. If they slip, they could hurt themselves or leave a big wet patch on your carpet or couch. Conclusion Regular baths are what you signed up for when you welcomed a golden retriever into your home! While all shampoos listed above can do wonders for your goldie, the Hylyt Hypoallergenic Shampoo for Dogs is our choice for best overall. Our other recommendations for the best dog shampoos for goldens are ideal for specific circumstances and needs. What is your favorite shampoo for bathing your golden, and why? Share your advice with the community in the comments section below. You May Also Like. The thick, fine double-coat of a Golden Retriever can get tangled or trap dirt and odors, so they need regular bathing to stay clean. Along with baths, your Golden Retriever should have regular grooming to keep them clean in between bathing. Double coats are prone to mats and tangles and may trap dirt and oil, leaving your dog with irritation and a dull coat. If your dog is prone to shedding or odors, choose a shampoo that addresses these problems. Always brush your dog before bathing to remove excess fur and remove tangles. This also prevents a lot of fur from getting trapped in your drain. Follow the directions on the shampoo bottle. Consider a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner. Golden Retrievers benefit from conditioners that keep their coats silky and tangle-free. If your dog gets nervous at bath time, having a 2-in-1 formula reduces the time spent in the bath while providing the conditioning benefits. Be consistent. Plus, your dog will get used to the routine and may become more comfortable with grooming. Conclusion Golden Retrievers are prized for their long, silky coats, but with that comes extra grooming and bathing responsibilities. Fortunately, dog shampoo for Golden Retrievers can help with detangling, coat and skin health, and issues like itching or odor. See Also:.

Country Life June 21, This picture could only be improved if the puppies were using their paws to cover ears, eyes and mouth respectively.But, well, you can't have everything. Credit: Alamy If you're after a labrador — aka 'the world's favourite dog' — you'll need to take some expert advice. It is one of the most versatile breeds, capable of working in search and rescue, as a guide dog, in medical detection, as a sniffer or assistance dog and in the theatre of war. Labrador tips from the experts Go to a specialist breeder, so that you can see the different generations of a breeding line. Make temperament, not sex, your overriding factor when choosing. As soon as your puppy wakes up, take it outside. When introducing the labrador to a lead, walk it with an older dog. A yellow Labrador puppy. Possible labrador problems to look out for Canine hip dysplasia is a genetic disease, causing the abnormal development of the hip socket, resulting in pain and lameness. Listen for a popping sound when the dog walks, and look for reluctance to use stairs, as well as sensitivity when you touch the hindquarters. Labradors can also be prone to retinal dysplasia, an inherited condition that affects labradors used for field work, and results in their developing blind spots. Generally, the dog can work around this by changing head position. Reputable breeders will be able to show certification that the dog has no eye conditions, which you should ask to see when buying a dog. Head and skull: Skull broad with defined stop; clean-cut without fleshy cheeks. Jaws of medium length, powerful not snippy. Nose wide, nostrils well developed. Eyes: Medium size, expressing intelligence; brown or hazel. Ears: Not large or heavy, hanging close to head and set rather far back. Mouth: Jaws and teeth strong with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite. Coat: Distinctive feature, short dense without wave or feathering, giving fairly hard feel to the touch; weather-resistant undercoat. No need to scroll down: we can confirm that the Golden Retriever is indeed on the list below. Credit: Alamy Which is the more popular spaniel, the springer or the cocker? Shooting Times's David Tomlinson weighs up the pros and Close up of dog. Credit: Getty Images With a silken coat, affectionate nature and boundless enthusiasm for life, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel lives up to its Credit: Getty As the dog world prepares for Crufts , we take a look at the breed of dog which has been A sprocker spaniel Picture: Alamy Whether you own labradors, springers, cockers or a mix of all three, debate over which gundog is best has raged Related. So Many Options! Where To Get a Labrador? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Except, you remember hearing you should only buy from professional breeders?! But that puppy in the pet store was so achingly cute! This article discusses the things you should consider before making that life changing decision. From dedicated experts who breed pedigree dogs to work or for show, to those who breed too many puppies, litter after litter purely for sale without love nor care for the health of the mother or quality of the litter. For how to recognize who the good breeders are, read our article: Labrador breeders — How to find the good ones! Buying from a good, responsible breeder is without doubt the best source for a quality, healthy Labrador puppy. They care about the overall welfare of the breed, as well as the health of the mother, quality of the litter and giving the puppies the best start in life. Responsible breeders: Guarantee a purebred and pedigree Labrador. Screen the parents for health problems before breeding , so puppies will be as free as possible from inherited diseases. Selectively breed aiming for conformance to the breed standard, so your lab has the most chance of looking like the perfect lab. Carefully socialize puppies from birth so they are well-adjusted and confident before sending them to a new home. Help buyers to select the right puppy from the litter to suit their personality, hopes and expectations. Helping you to get the puppy of your dreams. Provide expert help and advice on caring for the dog from puppyhood right through to adulthood. When you go to a good breeder you should expect lots of questions. They will also help to match you to the perfect puppy that suits your personality, preventing you from getting the wrong dog on impulse. You know the cute but feisty one that got your attention by barging through his litter mates to run up to you and be the first to say hello? Well, he may very likely become a dominant and strong-willed dog! You May Need Patience You should note that many breeders will have a long waiting list for their Labrador puppies. Then this may not be the right way for you. But this is a good thing! And nobody should buy a puppy on impulse, it must be a well thought out and reasoned decision. Maybe you would like to give a lucky Labrador a second chance at life and happiness? Adopting an Older Labrador From a Rescue Kennel Can Have Many Benefits: They will have been house trained already — No getting up in the middle of the night to relieve your puppy…or cleaning your floor after the inevitable mishaps. An adult Labrador will already show signs of any underlying problems so you can avoid this. Many will have received a decent amount of training already — Saving you lots of time and work. Having said all that… There are Some Obvious Risks! Or perhaps due to health problems that developed. Some may have faced abuse and neglect leaving them with psychological scars. Behavioral problems are sometimes well hidden, and aggression may only surface in very particular situations only. But if you are patient, understanding and can inject some routine and love into one of these dogs lives, they can become absolutely wonderful pets. There are also different types of rescue center and animal shelters. You will be able to get a feel for the level of the center when you visit and how professional they are and the staff to dog ratios. The Process When rescuing a lab, a good, well staffed shelter will ask you to visit and spend time with your potential pet. They will have assessed the dog and will tell you all they know about the dogs history and temperament. They will ask you lots of questions to find out whether you and your lifestyle are a good fit for a Labrador. They will want to meet you and your whole family. They will want to see how the people the Labrador is to live with interact with it and how the lab interacts with them. And that your choice of dog is well suited to you and interacts well with you on visits will they eventually allow you to adopt. Rescuing a Labrador can be a very good choice as long as due care is taken to pick the right one. And you will earn many karma points for doing a very good deed. It is a massive risk to take a puppy from a litter like this. These dogs have more than the average number of inherited diseases and behavioral problems. So although you will be saving a bit of money compared to paying out to a professional Labrador breeder. Or you might even be saving a dog from being given to a rescue center and possibly eventually being put down. You just might be letting yourself in for some expensive surprises in the way of vets bills or behavioral specialists later. But having said that, of course many of these puppies do become very good pets indeed. In fact a few places in the world have now banned the sale of puppies from pet stores. In these places, dogs are often bred in poor conditions, sometimes kept in small wire cages and given very little chance to socialize and little if any personal contact with humans. Have you had any good or bad experiences of getting a Labrador from any of the places listed above? Is there anything you would like to add about the pros and cons of the various places you can get yourself a Lab? Please let us know in the comments section below and you just might help people reading this article to make the right decision! Related Article:. Selecting Your Labrador Retriever Puppy Selecting your puppy Try to restrain your emotions when you are selecting our pup. Remember that the breeder has been with the pup from day 1 to selection day at 5 weeks. At Pawlinglabs, we will ask you to forward a list of the characteristics that your are hoping for, prior to selection. When you come to select, we will ask you to observe the litter before entering and handling the pups. Labrador pups are very cute and cuddly, but when it comes time to select the right one for you there is plenty to consider. Carefully observe Labrador Retriever puppies before buying them, ensuring that the pup you select looks healthy and is to breed standard. There are some basic points to note about Labrador Retriever standards. The coat of a Labrador is their most distinctive feature. Labs have two coats, the water resistant undercoat which is unseen, and the top coat which is dense, straight and short. There is might be a slight wave in their coat, however the coat should feel rough to the touch. Labrador puppies come in three different coat colors: yellow light cream to red fox , chocolate liver and black. There must not be any other colours in the coat. Labs have a broad skull and a well defined stop. Their head is quite large but the features on the head, such as the ears, look proportioned. The ears of a Labrador should be set far back from the face. The inside skin of the ears should be a pale pink and soft without any scabs or discoloration. There shouldn't be any odour coming from them. The eyes of a Lab pup are round, either deep brown or hazel with black rims. The eyes should be friendly and express intelligence. The Labrador Retriever has a wide black and well developed nose with distinguished nostrils. The nose should be clean and without discharge. Be aware that a wet nose is not an indication that the Lab is healthy, nor does a dry nose indicate he is unwell. The teeth should be set square to the jaws with the top teeth slightly overlapping the bottom. Labrador puppies have fewer teeth than adults and they will lose their baby teeth as their adult teeth grow in. Labs have a well developed and strong chest. It has good depth and width. Their barreled ribs are well sprung and their back is level. Their loins are wide and strong. The skin of a Lab should be without scabs or bumps. It is normal for Labrador puppies to have extra skin at the back of their neck; this is how their mother picks them up. The skin color of a lab is usually pale pink but it can also be brown or even spotted. The tail of a Labrador is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip. The tail is a moderate length and has no feathering. It is as smooth like the rest of the coat with a rounded appearance. The tails is even with the back or slightly upwards. It should never be carried over the back or hang down. Labrador have long and sloping shoulders that connect to the strong front legs. The hind legs are developed well and have a turned stifle. Both the front and hind legs should be straight. The feet of Labrador pups are compact and perfectly round. Their toes are arched and pads well developed. Feet should be straight, not turned inwards or outwards. The gait of a Labrador should be carefree. Labs take long strides and walk straight. Observe your puppies as he walk. Make sure it is not favoring any leg or paw. This can be a sign of a current or future health issue. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. By Pups Central Team What to Look For When Buying a Labrador Puppy These past few months, you may have been drooling over adorable puppy photos over on Facebook and Instagram, even became a loyal follower of their social media accounts. With this cuteness overload, you are now thinking of buying a Labrador Retriever puppy. Remember that you are not buying a toy. You are buying a living being, whose growth, training, and care will be your responsibility for the length of its life. Have no clue on what to look for when buying a Labrador puppy? Let us enumerate the steps. Figuring out the Labrador puppy that you want is not as easy as it looks. You need to determine your reason for buying a pup in the first place. Do you want a gorgeous Labrador that you can flaunt in dog shows? Do you want a competitive dog that can participate in field trials? Or maybe you just want a loyal and dedicated pet for the whole family? Knowing the type of Labrador you want is important because it will give you an idea of its overall temperament and if it matches your lifestyle, and help you in finding the right breeder. Aside from type, you should also determine the color of the Lab puppy that you want to own. Labrador experts have observed that the three main colors of the breed also present with different levels of intelligence and temperament. STEP 2: Come up with a list of reputable Labrador breeders Now that you know the type of Labrador that you want, the next step is to look for reputable breeders in your area. The Club has a search directory for club-registered breeders. If you have no particular breeder in mind, scroll down to the bottom of the directory for the breeder listings by state, last name, and kennel name. This list helps you to further narrow down your choice for a Labrador type. STEP 3: Contact the breeder. Having come up with your list, the next step is to contact the breeder through email or phone. Make sure that you have your notes on the Labrador puppy you are interested in as well as the questions that you would want to ask the breeder. Some good initial questions that you can ask are the following: 1 Do you have a litter of puppies available? Most breeders would have all the puppies reserved for early buyers before they are even born. If there is a new litter on the way, you can book an early reservation for a puppy as well. STEP 4: Visit the breeder. Once you have determined the breeders that have puppies available, schedule an on-site visit with them. Check out the stud dog and bitch and verify their credentials. If the stud mated with a bitch outside the kennel, consider tracking them down. The reason why you need to see the parents is that their temperaments can be passed on to their puppies. STEP 5: Check credentials. Aside from knowing the credentials of the breeder, you also need to check out the credentials of the stud dog and bitch. The three main standards that you should keep in mind are temperament, ability, and especially health. When it comes to health, both parents should possess the following health certificates : A Canine Eye Registry Foundation CERF certificated dated within the past year that the dog is free from eye diseases An Orthopedic Foundation of America OFA or PennHip certificate that the dog has normal hips An Orthopedic Foundation of America OFA certificate that the dog has normal elbows An Optigen testing certificate that the dog is free from inherited progressive blindness. STEP 6: Prepare to be assessed by the breeder. Reputable and responsible breeders would like to be sure that their puppies will go to good homes. In most cases, they will also interview you, asking questions on why you have chosen to get a Lab, the type of Lab that you are interested in, and the readiness of your home and family to take in a puppy. Some breeders may choose to visit your home and talk with family members. They may also offer recommendations to ensure the best living environment for their puppies. However, if you are given free rein to choose a puppy, these are the things you should take note of: A healthy Lab should be solid and well-proportioned. Thin puppies with visible ribs may be signs of malnutrition or illness. Inspect the coat, which should be soft and luxurious. There should be no bald patches. It should be clean with no signs of diarrhea or white flaky matter which is indicative of tapeworms. Its gums should be a healthy bright pink. The ears should be clean with no signs of infection, inflammation, or discharge. Observe the puppy while moving. It should be walking or running around with no limping or lameness. These steps will help ensure that you will be buying the Labrador puppy that you are looking for. Tweet on Twitter Getting a healthy, pedigree Labrador puppy requires planning. In this article we are going to share with you 8 steps that you can follow to ensure that you are buying a healthy Labrador puppy. There are potential problems that many new puppy buyers are not aware of. The litter of puppies next door, or in your local newspaper, might not be the right one for you. So you need to be cautious as you set out on this exciting journey! Plan in advance Good breeders do not usually struggle to get puppy buyers. On the contrary, they often have waiting lists. So, if a litter of eight week old puppies is still unsold, be wary. It pays to plan in advance. Six to twelve months ahead of when you want your puppy is not too soon. The structured approach below is designed to help those with no contacts in the dog breeding world, find the right puppy. Step 1. Those bred for the show ring or as pets, and those bred for work as gundogs. You can read about these two types of Labrador, and their characteristics in this article: which Labrador is right for you? In the UK we call these two strains working type or field type and show type. They look and are, very different dogs. In the USA, working bred Labradors are often referred to as field type or American and show bred gun dogs as bench type or English. The split is the same in both countries, whatever they are called. And you need to know which is which and which you prefer. Step 2. This article looks at all the different places and ways in which you can buy puppies and explains the pros and cons of each. Finding a reputable breeder if you have no contacts in the doggy world, is not as easy as walking into a pet shop, but it is worth every bit of the effort that goes into it. One way to start your search, is by looking at your local Labrador breed club. This will lead you to some experienced breeders. You will then need to do some further checks to find out whether or not the breeders meets the standards you are looking for. Many people that are involved in the committee of their breed club are themselves breeders. If they no longer breed, they will be able to put you in touch with someone that does. One will be labelled FT secretary. The FT stands for Field Trial and suggests that this person is involved with working type labradors. If someone is showing their dogs, the dogs themselves are more likely to be show type rather than true working type. Step 3. Contact some Labrador breeders Make a list of contacts to approach, you can then phone them or email them. Let them know that you found them on the Kennel Club website, and are looking for a pedigree Labrador puppy. Tell them which type work or show you are interested in. Have a separate list ready, to enter details of any litters. So the second question is often the best way of getting a puppy from one of her dogs. If you have a colour preference, let the breeder know. He or she will ask you plenty of questions later if you want one of their puppies. Step 4. For several reasons. They may not have any puppies at the moment, or they may not meet the criteria you have set for the breeder of your puppy. They will however, be able to give you more contacts to add to your list. What you are aiming to do, is to make a list of half a dozen or so litters of puppies that you can then check out and narrow down. One of the best ways to find a litter of puppies, either before or after they are born, is to find a nice stud dog, and track down all the female dogs he has been mated to over the last month or two. A reputable breeder will be happy to email you photos and may even let you visit her stud dog, so that you can decide if you like him. This trail will also lead you to some smaller, less experienced breeders so you will need to do your homework carefully to make sure that the mother of your puppies has the right credentials. Checking those out is our next step Step 5. Checking credentials It is up to you to check the credentials of the litter. This is something that people are often unaware of. A pedigree does not guarantee very much at all. The Kennel Club pedigree is simply a statement of ancestry and contrary to popular belief, does not imply that the puppy it belongs to or his parents have met any standards. The three credentials you need to personally check and verify are Temperament Abililty Temperament The most crucial of all credentials has to be temperament. An adult Labrador may weight in excess of 70lbs. These are large powerful dogs that everyone expects to be friendly. You cannot take any chances with poor temperament. He will inherit tendencies to friendliness or unfriendliness, nervousness or confidence etc, from both of his parents. Never buy a puppy without meeting his mother. And if you can meet the stud dog, so much the better. If you cannot meet the stud dog, make sure that someone who has met him, can vouch for his good nature. This may not be quite as crucial with a show champion as any successful show dog will have proven itself happy to be handled in the most personal manner by total strangers. Working dogs are a different matter, and occasionally dogs with poor temperaments do succeed in competition and are used at stud. Health Health credentials are essential. Follow this link to read all about inherited diseases in Labradors and read our article on health checks. I cannot stress this too much. You must physically check certificates or copies of certificates way in advance of collecting your puppy. It is very hard to turn down a puppy once he is in your arms. Ability Ability is important if you have an activity in mind for your dog. If your aim is to compete in working trials, you might want to choose a puppy whose ancestors have been successful in that sport. Choosing a litter Narrowing down your choice to a single litter can be tough. Unless you have your heart set on a puppy from a particular dog, you may find it difficult to decide. In many cases though, there are not that many litters that meet the right criteria. You can narrow down your choice further by looking again at the breeder. How friendly and helpful is she? Do you think she will be supportive if you get into difficulties with your puppy? Has she offered to take the puppy back at any point in his life if you cannot cope? If you can answer yes to all three, then that is a real bonus point for that litter. This person is important and you need to feel that you can trust her. A breeder with a lot of dogs may have her pups in an outdoor kennel, but they should still spend lots of time with the family. Check out this article: How to spot a good breeder , and this one How to spot a bad breeder for more information. It pays to be picky. Step 7. Choosing gender Should you buy a dog or a female dog? Some people simply prefer one gender over another. And it is very hard to generalise about the sexes. Male Labradors are no more difficult to train or control than female dogs. And though entire males may be more likely to roam if not supervised in an unfenced property, female dogs can do this too. Females come into season twice a year at which time they may need to be confined to washable floors. They will also need to be kept separate from entire males with vigilance for a period of around three weeks. Neutering a female is more expensive than neutering a male. And older, un-neutered female dogs are prone to a serious and potentially deadly condition called pyometra. These are all things to consider. But overall, it often just boils down to personal preference. Step 8. Choosing your puppy And now for the final and most exciting step Choosing your puppy. Which one of these gorgeous bundles of Labrador loveliness should you take home? One of the very best things you can do when choosing a puppy from a litter, is to take someone experienced with you. Another good reason to choose an experienced and dependable person well in advance. If there is a choice, a good breeder will be able to guide you in this. All they can tell you is what you can hope for from the pedigree, and that the puppy seems OK physically. Check out this article: Choosing the right dog for more information. To make sure all is well, you will need to have your new puppy checked over by your own vet, within a day or two of bringing him home. Health and temperament problems in a large dog can be devastating. Now available in most countries, the handbook is already a bestseller in the UK. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. Print Looking for a new gun dog or duck dog? Many people start their search with good intentions. They want to find a good quality pup that will serve as a hunting companion as well as a family dog. However, somewhere along the way they end up just picking up a cute puppy that the family could not resist. Maybe, but it is a needle-in-the-haystack approach. While there is no guarantee that any puppy you bring home is going to grow into a well-mannered hunting partner, there are ways to stack the odds in your favor. Today, we are going to discuss the process I go through when looking for a new puppy. These are my opinions, so take it for what it is worth, but I do have extensive experience buying Labrador puppies. I have been doing this for over 30 years and I rarely have a puppy that does not work out. Research puppy litters I buy my puppies based on pedigree. I want proven working parents. This means that I want to see that either the mom or dad, preferably both, have AKC retriever field trial titles , AKC retriever hunting test titles or UKC retriever hunting test titles behind their names on an official pedigree. Be sure you see field trial or hunt test titles. Sometimes you will see AKC show titles or other titles like agility. These are NOT the same as field trial or hunt test titles and are generally not something you want to see on the pedigree of a hunting or competition dog. There are many places to search for litters on the internet. And many sites offer the ability to limit your search by state. However, do not be afraid to look for puppies further away from you. If the litter has a great pedigree and is exactly what you are looking for, you can always have the puppy flown or shipped to you. Some of the sites that are good for looking for litters are: retrievertraining. Again, I am not saying that great dogs cannot come out of these places but rather that the odds are not in your favor. Why are hunting titles important? Hunting titles tell you that the dog has proven its ability to perform at a certain level. It also tells you that the genetics are there. If the parents can perform at a Field Champion or Master Hunter level, there is a good chance the puppies will also have that ability. Do all your research prior to going to look at the puppies Everybody loves puppies. They are cute, cuddly and so lovable. That is why I recommend that you do not ever go look at a litter that does not already meet your standards regarding pedigree. It is just too easy to end up bringing one home. And if you have kids or a spouse involved, I guarantee that any litter you go look at you are most certainly going to end up bringing home a puppy. Does color make a difference? Well-bred puppies are available in each of these colors, and we have trained excellent hunting dogs in each color. However, you may now see litters advertised as fox red or white. These colors are not recognized by the AKC and you should beware of purchasing a dog based solely on color. In addition, there are now Labs being sold as silver, charcoal and champaign. These litters are technically not pure Labrador Retrievers. They are often referred to as dilutes because the genetics have been diluted to produce these colors. Many trainers will not train dilutes because of the many health problems and genetic issues that go along with these breeds. There are, unfortunately, people breeding pups specifically to produce a specific color without regard for temperament and the betterment of the breed. We prefer to stay away from litters that do not have a proven pedigree and have been breed specifically for color. In addition, our experience training dogs from these types of litters has proven to be a struggle. How much does a good puppy cost? For many people this is a defining question. So, a new hunting partner can be a significant investment. But for us it is worth it to stack the odds in our favor. Find a great retriever breeder Unfortunately, not all breeders are equal. Over the years, some breeders have stood out to us as exceptional. They go over and beyond just taking good care of the puppies. You can tell they really want their puppies to turn out great and they take steps, while the pups are very young, to help ensure their puppies have a good strong foundation that will help them succeed in the future. Beyond the breeding of quality dogs, the difference is in the socialization of the puppies. As I talk extensively about in Raising a Lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog , socialization is an essential key component in training a retriever puppy. Breeders that go out of their way to socialize young pups are worth their weight in gold. The truth is that raising puppies, done the right way, takes a lot of time and commitment. We specialize in training and prefer to let others specialize in doing a great job raising litters. Ask prospective breeder the right questions When you call and talk to a breeder about an upcoming litter, it is important to get answers to some important questions. If the pedigrees are not available online, be sure and request one from the breeder. How often do you breed? How often has this mother been bred? When looking for a great hunting dog puppy, you want to avoid puppy mills. Puppy mills are breeders that are just pumping out puppies for money and without concern to the overall health and betterment of the breed. Responsible breeders have a plan for the litters they are producing and will be able to talk to you about why the litter is worth the money they are asking. What breeds do you breed? Look for a breeder that specializes in Labrador Retrievers or whatever breed you are looking to purchase. What does your health guarantee cover? Responsible breeders will offer you a health guarantee for the puppy. While what this guarantee covers may vary, with Labrador Retrievers some of the things you want to make sure the health guarantee covers includes: Hip dysplasia Eye issues In addition, you may want to make sure that the parents have been genetically tested for other genetic diseases such as Exercise Induced Collapse EIC and Centronuclear Myopathy CNM. What do you do to socialize the puppies? Asking this open-ended question can give breeders a chance to tell you about the work they do socializing the young pups before they are ready to go home. Or, you may want to follow up with more specific questions such as: Are the pups exposed to children at all? Do you take the pups to different locations during the day? Do the puppies get outside time, what does that look like? The goal is to find out if the puppies are getting socialization and exposure to new and different things on a regular basis. Pups that get this exposure tend to adjust more quickly to their new homes and new situations later in life. Have you done this specific breeding before? How did those puppies turn out? Breeders that are working for the betterment of the breed, may breed a set of parents more than once. If this is a repeat breeding, it is likely that the breeder will know how previous litters performed in the field or in competition. Serious Labrador Retriever breeders often keep track of how their puppies perform as they age. Alternatively, you could ask for references and talk to previous buyers to find out what they think of the breeder and the puppy they bought. Should I meet the prospective dog parents? While some people might tell you that you should meet the prospective parents of the puppies, I do not see a lot of value in this. Some good breeders do not own both the parents. Often, they work with other breeders so both the Dam and Sire may not be onsite. And if you are basing your pup purchase off pedigree first, as I would recommend, you already know the most important things about the parents. If looks are important to you, then photos of the parents will show you what you need to know. Choose a retriever puppy from the litter Once you decide on a litter, the waiting begins. Ask the breeder to provide videos and photos of puppies as the grow. This is a great way to see the puppies progress and you can see some personality traits in the different pups. If you did all the work in researching pedigree and breeders, you already have stacked the odds in your favor. You know that the litter is a good one and that the puppies have a good chance of turning out to be great hunting partners. This is important because it takes a lot of pressure off when it is time to pick the puppy from the litter. When you do go to the breeder to pick your puppy, take a few minutes to observe the puppies. This will allow you to see some personality traits. Understand though that this is only one snapshot in time. The puppy that is active at this time, might have been sleeping right before you showed up. Or, the one that is sleepy may have been running around like crazy just minutes before. At Otter Tail Kennels, we often look for a puppy that likes people. A puppy that chases a child around the yard or runs to the owner when they walk away is attractive to us because we want a people-centered dog instead of a dog that prefers to spend its time with litter mates. But this is not an exact science by any means. That is why we rely on the fact that we have done our homework and know the entire litter has promise. Final thoughts on how to find a good Labrador puppy Any time you set out to buy a puppy, you do not know how the journey will end. There are a lot of unknowns. You cannot tell for sure what the puppy will look like as an adult, and you cannot tell if they will be a great hunter or a great family dog. What you can do is stack the odds in your favor. Find a great litter from a great breeder and select a puppy from that litter. Once you do that, you are on your way to having a great duck or gun dog. Then the next important step is to socialize, expose and train the puppy. Read how to do that here. Have questions about finding a great retriever for your hunting and family needs? I am here to help! You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs and services I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. How to find a good Labrador puppy.

The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Learn more » Congratulations on your new golden retriever puppy! You now have a beautiful, smart, and loyal dog who will love you for life. To make sure they grow into a healthy and happy companion, you need to feed them the right amount of food. At months old, which is usually when they are ready to leave their mother, a golden retriever puppy should be eating 3 cups of dog food divided into three meals per day. This is based on a typical large-breed puppy food. Different brands will give a feeding guide on their packaging. However, how much and how often to feed your golden retriever will keep changing during this time of rapid growth. Golden Retriever Puppy Feeding Timeline Image Credit: PxHere All puppies are different as are the foods, but some general guidelines for feeding your golden retriever during their first year are: 0—6 weeks: A golden retriever puppy can start eating solid food when they are 3—4 weeks old. Give them a total of 3 cups of dog food per day by their third month, 3 to 4 cups by the time they are 6 months old. The AKC recommends waiting until large breed puppies are at least 12 months old before switching them over to adult dog food and more likely 18 months. The amount will depend on their weight and activity level, but a rough guide is 1—2 cups per meal. Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock Large breed puppies like golden retrievers should eat three to four small meals a day for the first 3—6 months of their lives. Smaller portions spread throughout the day are easier on their tummies and help prevent bloat, a serious condition that can be deadly for dogs. It also helps them maintain their energy level throughout the day. Puppy food has more calories and fat to support their growth, as well as extra vitamins and minerals for their developing immune and nervous systems and bones. The protein source matters, too. Puppies need animal-based proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb for their growing muscles. Choose a Large Breed Formula: Large breed puppies grow quickly, which means they need extra support for their bones and joints. Formulations for large breeds contain the correct calcium and phosphorus ratio for strong bones and glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. They can help you choose the right food for your puppy based on their age, weight, and activity level. But puppies need to be fed on a schedule to prevent them from overeating and becoming overweight. How do you know if your puppy is getting enough to eat? After that, their growth will start to slow down. He Has a Healthy Appetite: A healthy puppy is interested in food and eager to eat. He Has Plenty of Energy: A well-fed puppy is full of energy and ready to play. Make the most of mealtime with these tips: 1. It also helps other aspects of puppy training, such as potty training and crate training. Image Credit: Alena Marchuk, Shutterstock This means leaving food out all day for them to graze on whenever they want. Leave food down for 10 minutes and then pick up what is not eaten. If they have not eaten anything, offer it again in an hour. Slow them down by scattering their kibble around the bowl, using a puzzle feeder or snuffle mat. This will help them learn to eat slowly and enjoy their food more. If your puppy is not drinking enough water for your liking, try adding a bit of broth to their bowl to make it more appealing and help them stay hydrated. Resist the Urge to Sneak Them Table Scraps Puppies are experts at giving those big, soulful eyes that make it hard to say no. But resist the temptation to give them table scraps or human food. Aside from teaching them bad manners, it can also lead to health problems, like obesity. A lot of human foods are not safe or healthy for dogs. For instance, garlic and onions are toxic to dogs. Oily food can upset their stomach, and carbs add a lot of calories. This helps them learn that mealtime is a specific time and place and not something that happens all over the house. Let Your Puppy Eat in Peace. This includes other pets in the house and small children who might want to bother them or try to steal their food. Otherwise, meals can become a stressful experience for your puppy instead of a happy one. Conclusion Feeding your golden retriever puppy the right amount of quality dog food will establish a strong foundation for their health and happiness. In addition, make mealtimes more meaningful by turning them into lessons and bonding moments between you and your dog. The puppy phase is over before you know it, so enjoy it while it lasts! We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. There is also info on how to keep your puppy and your adult at his or her optimum weight. Scroll down to find growth charts to make sure your puppy is growing at the proper rate and is within the right weight range for his age. If you are looking for information on what to feed, go to How to Choose a Dog Food. Unlike with human children, a puppy that is overfed will grow too fast before they grow too fat. A good example is where a smaller puppy at 10 weeks was overfed and his growth was compared to a puppy that was correctly fed. The growth of your puppy needs to be controlled. General Guidelines for Puppies Below are some general guidelines on how much to feed puppies. Most dog food bags suggest feeding too much. Increase to about 3 cups a day by 5 months for boys and by 6 months for girls. Golden Retrievers at this age are supposed to look lanky and all Golden Retrievers act like they are starving when fed the correct amount. If left to eat as much as they want, they will all grow too fast. In the wild, dogs do not have unlimited access to eat as much as they want. They work for their food. Caloric Needs Greatly Decrease at About a Year When puppies reach about months, their caloric needs begin to decrease. Some males might need 4 cups if active and are fed a less expensive food. Make sure you take into consideration the number of extra calories being fed as treats. You should be able to feel their ribs, but not see them even when the dog is wet. If you can see the ribs, increase their food. Decrease the food if you cannot feel them. I always tell people that it is better to underfeed than to overfeed, especially when feeding puppies. Weight Range Charts Following are charts of how puppies should generally grow in weight. Keep in mind that very few puppies need to be at the top of these ranges and if you cannot feel ribs, your dog is overweight even if she is in this weight range. If your dog is still a puppy and she is over these weight ranges, you are feeding her too much. Female Golden Retriever Weight Chart Here is a chart of how girls should generally grow in weight: 2 Months — pounds. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.

They are very friendly, loving and often make great family pets. There are three types of Golden Retrievers — English, Canadian and American with colors ranging from golden, lightly golden, and dark golden. To bring home the perfect Golden Retriever from a breeder, it is important to find a breeder who focuses on the health, longevity, and temperament of their dogs. The Golden Retriever puppies should also be well socialized before going to their forever home and be screened for genetic hereditary problems including hip and elbow problems. Best Golden Retriever Breeders in Tennessee 1. They strive to provide healthy quality puppies with calm temperaments! They carefully select Goldens from top Multi-champion European import lines which they feel are some of the best bloodlines available in the United States! They raise their puppies around their grandchildren to make sure they are socialized and great around children. They are constantly posting photos on Facebook and are updating their website with the latest news on new litters. Name of Owner. A healthy male Golden Retriever weighs between 65 to 75 pounds while growing up to 23 to 24 inches tall. A female weighs between 55 to 65pounds and can grow up to .How long does it take a Golden Retriever to reach its full size? For Golden Retrievers, full physical maturity takes one to two years. Once this is attained, its bones become fully grown and can perform the same amount of physical exercise as an adult dog. Do Golden Retrievers smell? Golden Retrievers often smell bad because of its thick water-resistant coat. You can, however, maintain its cleanliness to control its bad odor. How can you keep a Golden Retriever healthy? There are several ways to keep this dog healthy few of which are high-quality food, providing it with plenty of clean and freshwater, developing a good feeding schedule, etc. How many times a day should a Golden Retriever be fed? The required food for a Golden Retriever is dependent on its age, activity level, size and built. Vets recommend about 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food per day for two meals. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? This dog is a sporting breed and therefore requires a whole lot of exercise when fully grown, high-intensity exercise is very beneficial to it. Is it alright to get a Golden Retriever in a hot climate? The Golden Retriever can thrive well in hot climates; all it requires is a shaded and aerated area with lots of water. However, it should not be allowed to exercise too much in the heat. What age can a Golden Retriever Puppy be brought home? A puppy Retriever should not be taken from its mother earlier than when it is 8 weeks old. This is because up until that age, it gets important socialization and learns important skills from its mother and siblings. Should a Golden Retriever be left indoors or outdoors? A Golden Retriever naturally wants to be with its family, if its family is indoor, you will find it right there with them. Does a Golden Retriever bark a lot? The Golden Retriever is not one to bark a lot except in cases of boredom or mental stimulation. Are you interested in purchasing a Golden Retriever? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

As we combine two different purebred dogs, there are so many possible variations and outcomes! Of course, a Bernedoodle puppy will inherit its traits and characteristics from its lineage. The traditional Bernese Mountain Dog coat features a solid jet black base color with white and rust or tan markings. The tan and rust markings are usually present above the eyes, on the cheeks, on each side of the chest, on the legs, and under the tail. The white markings are found on the muzzle, between the eyes, on the chest, neck, and paws. Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle Colors Poodles, on the other hand, most commonly come in a variety of solid colors, such as black, blue, gray, silver, brown, red, apricot, cream, cafe au lait, silver beige, and white. In addition to that, Poodles can also come with different color combinations like black and brown, black and tan, black and apricot, black and cream, brown and apricot, brown and white, and other combinations of the more common solid colors. As you might guess, black and white Bernedoodles have a black solid dominant color and white markings on the face, neck, and chest. Merle Bernedoodle One of the rarest, but most beautiful Bernedoodle colors is the merle pattern. Merle Bernedoodles have a solid base color with speckled patches of diluted colors throughout the coat. The merle coat gene is not as common in either Poodles or Bernese Mountain Dogs, but it can be passed onto the Bernedoodles when one of the parents is carrying the merle gene. A higher chance of achieving a merle Bernedoodle pup is by crossing a Poodle with a merle Bernedoodle. However, ethical breeders will never cross two merle Bernedoodles, as this increases the risk of serious health issues like blindness and deafness. Red and White Bernedoodle Red and white Bernedoodle is another rare color combination that features a mixture of reds and whites. The more traditional red and white Bernedoodle color has a solid red base on most of the body, while the chest, face, paws, and legs have white hair. Additionally, there are parti red and white Bernedoodles, where the base color is white throughout the body. In contrast, the red markings are found on the face, ears, and sometimes on the back as well. Black Bernedoodle A solid black Bernedoodle is more of a rare find compared to the black and white Bernedoodle and tri-color Bernedoodles. If the goal is to achieve a black Bernedoodle, both parent pups should carry the same recessive gene. The Bernedoodle tri-color pattern features three different colors on the coat. There can be various tri-color patterns with colors like black, brown, tan, rust, apricot, red, white, and cream. The dominant base color is usually darker and white markings are found on the face, chest, feet, and paws. Sable Bernedoodle Another popular choice is the sable Bernedoodle color. Sable Bernedoodles have a solid base color, but the hairs have black tips. Of course, the overall look depends on how much of the hair lengths are colored black from the ends. Phantom Bernedoodle Phantom Bernedoodles are somewhat similar to tri-colored Bernedoodles, but they have less white markings and more brown hues in their coats. The most common phantom combination is black and tan. These pups usually have dominant black color all across the body with tan markings on the face, chest, legs, and paws. This is again a more rare Bernedoodle color out there, but it sure does look beautiful! Chocolate Bernedoodle Chocolate Bernedoodles can come in a variety of patterns. Rare Bernedoodle Colors Of course, in addition to all of the Bernedoodle colors and color combinations we listed above, there are countless other colors and patterns that the puppies can come in. Many of them surprising even the breeders. It all comes down to their genetics and which dominant and recessive genes are present. Additionally, keep in mind that not all puppies in the same litter inherit the same coat colors. As with any Doodle, combining two different breeds gives us endless possibilities. Like many other Doodles, Bernedoodles often carry the fading gene , which is usually inherited from the Poodle side of their lineage. This typically occurs anywhere from 6 to 10 months of age. The fading, also called clearing, is most noticeable in darker colored Bernedoodles who have blacks and browns in their coat. Black Bernedoodles with the fading gene often change into silver, gray, or bluish tones. Chocolate or brown Bernedoodles can turn silver, cream, or silver beige over time. However, merle Bernedoodles might be at a slightly higher risk of certain health problems, such as deafness or blindness. To be fair, it all comes down to your preferences and which colors you like. However, we do recommend you choose your new family member based on their health and temperament, not for their looks only. Black Bernedoodles can fade into gray or silver tones, and chocolate Bernedoodles might fade into silver, silver beige, and beige tones. The only way to accurately predict the color of your puppy is by DNA testing, which you can arrange at an additional cost with your breeder. The rarest variations are bi-color black and white Bernedoodle, sable, phantom, and merle patterns, solid black, and solid white. In conclusion, choosing the color of your Bernedoodle puppy is one of the more difficult decisions that you face. They all look beautiful in their own way, but one thing is for sure — all Bernedoodles have amazing personalities, regardless of their coat color. We hope this guide has given you a good idea about all the different Bernedoodle colors and patterns that are available out there. What is your favorite Bernedoodle color? Let us know in the comments below! Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation. We do not use Australian Shepherds in our program. We introduced Merle into our program in .We are very proud of our Merle Bernedoodles. You can see several examples of our amazing Merle Bernedoodles below. Where does the merle gene come from and how it got in the poodle gene pool? I get this question all the time. I have done a lot of study of the merle gene in the poodle gene pool and believe that it was not caused by introducing another breed into the gene pool but, in fact, it is a mutation that occurred naturally. Merle is probably the most mis-understood and hotly debated dilution gene in the poodle. Many believe it must be a recessive gene because it doesn't affect the appearance of red, apricot and red or diluted colors such as blues and silvers. In addition, it can be hard to see or not evident at all on black and brown dogs cryptic. Not only is its appearance illusive to breeders but it has confused scientists and it is still not completely understood. The merle pattern has been studied many times and the last study released in emphatically stated that merle was caused by a mutation in the gene called SILV or PMEL.The research was believed to be so solid that tests were offered to breeders to identify Merle in their dogs. However, as of March the company who owned the patent for the test, Idexx, stopped offering tests as they discovered the scientists identified the wrong gene. SILV is not responsible for merle. The gene they decided was merle SILV actually turned out to be for a form of piebaldism- not merle. One theory is that piebaldism may be issue when connected to merle- or it may be piebaldism itself that is the issue. Another theory is "The Misidentification Theory. However, it is said - rightly so - that merles have often been misidentified as other colors. Then there is the "The Cryptic Merle" theory. This theory is actually a subcategory of the Misidentification Theory. Merle is what is called a "modifier. If merle acts on a black coat, the result is blue merle. If it acts on a chocolate coat, the result is red merle. And so on. The final theory I have is that that merles have been in the breed and that mere is a "natural" occuring pattern in the breed, and that merles have often been misidentified as other colors. When I called AKC to register Chuck and asked about the color code to give him they said to give him code and This refers to a a red and white dog with black markings. This leads me to believe that when looking at the color pedigree 5 or 10 generations back you would not know if the dog was actually a merle or a parti meaning merle could be in the pedigree without proper identification. Merle can affect all coat colors. The merle forms of brown and black are usually called "red" though this is not correct; red and merle are genetically different and "blue" as patches of blue are formed throughout the coat. Merle is a dilution gene just like the blue, chocolate in a traditional color but without the color of blue DNA. Merle has its own colours and DNA; a blue merle is a dog who has blue patches on its body, red and some are chocolate or "cookies and cream". Dogs who are recessive red can still be affected by merle, but the patches are either hardly seen or, if the dog is a clear recessive red, are not visible at all. Combinations such as brindle merle exist, but are rare. In addition to altering base coat color, merle also modifies eye color and coloring on the nose and paw pads. The merle gene modifies the dark pigment in the eyes, occasionally changing dark eyes to blue, or part of the eye to be colored blue. Since merle causes random modifications, however, both dark-eyed, blue-eyed, and odd-colored eyes are possible. Color on paw pads and nose may be mottled pink and black. Color on the nose may be black, blue, or red. You can see a perfect example of a chocolate merle in our stud Chuck. Merle Bernedoodles What is a Merle Bernedoodle? What are the most common Merle patterns in Bernedoodles? How is a Merle Bernedoodle produced? Merle is a term used to describe the pattern of a dogs coat. Merle is a dilution gene, that is, it lightens whatever the coat color would otherwise have been. The lightening is not spread evenly over the coat, but leaves patches of undiluted color scattered over the dog's body. Also, the lightening seems to work primarily on the black pigment in the coat. Merle refers to the pattern in the coat and is not a color as such. The white and gray patterns that appear on a black make them appear to have a blueish cast. These are called blue merles. Merle is a color combination in dogs' coats. Although most breeds that can have merle coats also typically have white markings such as around the neck, under the belly, and so on , and often tan points typically between the white and the darker parts of the coat , these are separate colors from the merle; some dogs do appear completely merled with no white or tan markings. Merle can also alter other colors and patterns besides the usual red or black. Utah Bernedoodles. If black, puppy has markings outside of the normal pattern for a parti puppy. Markings can range from silver, light tan, to dark brown, to red. These markings are found over the eyes, on the sides of the face, on the chest, on all four legs and feet, and under the tail. There is no white on the puppy or the white is very minimal. Unlike a phantom puppy, there is white present somewhere on the puppy. It is most common to only have white on the chest and sometimes the feet. These puppies most closely resemble a bernese mountain dog in their color patterns. It is more rare to get the white on the face with perfect berner markings, so please understand if leaving a deposit, you could be waiting a very long time for a puppy like this. The two non-traditional tri-colors we produce are sables and brindles. A sable is when the outer hair is a darker shade than the hair underneath. These puppies are a different color when they are shaved down. They commonly have places where their hair tends to stay darker like on the ears or tail. They may or may not have phantom markings and can have varying amounts of white. Brindle is when the puppy has stripes of different colors on their body. If all these colors werent confusing enough as it is, you can also have a sable brindle combination where the puppy has the stripes, but the hair underneath is still lighter too. These puppies will have varying sizes of patches. Several colors of hair create the "blue" and "red" color that these babies are known for. One puppy could appear to be several colors as its base coat. No two babies are ever the same!!! The phantom merles have those distinct phantom markings that we love so much! On average, these babies will appear to be three or more colors! These babies have large patches of distinct white, not just small spots of white hair mixed in which is common in merles. These puppies can appear to be five or more colors. The are the most unique color out there and are something extra special!!! A little about merles: Standard sized merle bernedoodles are especially hard to find. They are one of the few colors that are auctually harder to find in Standard size than mini. The reason being that standard sized merle standard poodles are difficult to find. The merle color is very uncommon in all poodle sizes. They can usually be readily found in toy and mini sized poodles. The toy poodle is then bred to a standard sized female to create the Moyen or medium sized poodle. This poodle as the mother cannot safely be bred to a bernese mountain dog. She will be far too small. If this moyen poodle is the father, the puppies will be a larger mini or very small standard size. These are not Large standard sized puppies that we are hoping to have. This merle moyen poodle should be bred again to a standard poodle in order to bring as much size as possible to the offspring, and then that puppy could safely breed for standard sized puppies. It takes several generations to safely and correctly breed for True Standard sized babies. It takes many years to create the perfect poodle to make these babies happen! We maintain the right to refuse sale to anyone we do not feel comfortable placing a puppy with for any reason. This right also extends to people who have already left a deposit with us, in which this is the only case that a deposit will be refunded. We want only the best for our babies and if we believe you may not be a fit home for one of our babies for any reason, we will exercise this right. Thank you for understanding. Copyright Kandissweetpuppies. All Rights Reserved. Meet Our Dogs Our dogs are more than just pets — they are family! Our dogs grow up in a loving, family oriented environment and are socialized from a young age. All of our moms and dads have passed genetic testing specific to their breed. Nora is just a happy girl with a happy heart and she passes this on to her sweet puppies! She loves to be loved and gives it right back! Margot is a Bernese with a big heart! Ivy lives with friends who have been guardians for several of our girls. They describe her as sweet, quirky, and the biggest lap dog ever! Ivy insists on being close to her people, preferably touching! Bebe is goofy and affectionate, loving and silly, very much a Bernese. She is so engaged and careful with her babies, an adorable dog and Mama through and through! She is a talker like her Mama, loves the family bunny, and adores her family. Millie loves to learn and is proud of her accomplishments. Millie makes her guardian family laugh and the favorite part of her day is when the whole family is together! Pure sweetness with just a dash of mischief ; that would be Pumpkin! Rosey is such a good mix of love and affection, adventure and playfulness, with just a dash of mischievousness! He has a wonderful fleece coat with big waves. Flynn is a sweet and energetic little guy, he has no trouble keeping up with the big dogs! He has produced stunning traditional tricolor litters with some of the prettiest coats we've seen! Rocky is as sweet as he is mischievous! He also fancies himself a lap dog - which is a small problem at pounds! He is a lover with the most soulful eyes! He is playful, curious, and full of energy! Sully is a "moyan" poodle which is a small standard poodle. He weighs 27 pounds and when bred with a Bernese he will produce mini - medium tricolor bernedoodles! Full of love and cheer, he keeps us on our toes! Max is one of the happiest guys we know! Arlo Male tricolor standard poodle Arlo is the epitome of a standard poodle, goofy, goofy, goofy, and intelligent! He is truly a delight, fun-loving, and energetic. Arlo is the master of the head tilt and its so cute to see his babies following suit with impressive head tilts of their very own! Every one of these girls truly made the world a better place and we are so grateful to each and every one of them! As a full time Breeder, you have to have a lot of dogs. We usually breed our dogs when they are around 18 months old, and we will breed a maximum of 3 times. If you think about that, as soon as a Mama has her first litter you need to have a new puppy in the line up so she is ready for her first breeding as your 3 year old girl is retiring. As a result we quickly had a house full of retired dogs - not a good business plan! We buy the dog, pay for all testing and medical care, but she lives with another family. All of our guardians live very close to us and we give them all the support they need. When the girl is ready to have a litter, she comes to our house to have her pups and stays with us until the puppies are weaned, usually about six weeks. Of course their guardian families come to visit too! After 3 breedings, the dog is spayed and she officially becomes the guardian families forever dog! You did such a good job, we are so lucky we found you! We kept Mala from our first litter from Snow White. Thank you for making such sweet babies! Belle has such a fun loving spirit which she passed onto each of her beautiful pups! Thanks for all of your hard work Belle, you did a wonderful job! Ramona produced a pot-potpourri of stunning, colorful puppies. She had litters as big as her heart! Thank you Ramona, you did an amazing job! Shelby is fun loving and lively! We loved delivery days with Shelby as she always gave us beautiful and unique pups! You did a great job Shelby, thank you! Willow is a delightful Bernese, her personality encompasses the best of the breed. Willow, you made so many families happy, we thank you! We love her eyes and freckles! Koda, you left a wonderful legacy, thank you! Coco loves and lives life large! She always had big litters and handled them with grace and ease. Thank you Coco - you absolutely rocked it!! They allowed us to use Grisz to sire a few litters over the years. Thank you Snow, you made the world a better place! Love you. Beazus only produced one puppy and she was a loving and attentive mama! Her daughter, Ramona, is now having her grandchildren for us! Bella is a little girl who always had big, beautiful litters! She was so patient and loving with every single one of those pups! Thank you Bella! Chama is sister to Clarke and cousin to Snow White. She produced cuddly, adorable tricolors every time! Chama, you are wonderful, we love you! Zena is a stunning Bernese from Russia. Now her daughters will be having puppies! We love you! Sicily came from Italy. Thank you Sicily, we love you. She made gorgeous babies and loved them to pieces! Thank you Stella. Georgie is spunky and loving. She adored her puppies and was a fierce Mama! We owe a special thanks to Georgie for our Bernedoodle, Spicy Tuna!! Lily is the happiest of girls! She brought love, energy, and tail wags to every puppy. A loving Mama who is now loving life! Kahlu is from the first litter we had. Kahlu had such unique puppies, every litter brought new surprises! Sophie produced beautiful big litters everytime! She brought so much fun and love to every single puppy! Thank you, Sophie, you are special! Brooklyn Standard Poodle Retired Nov. Brooklyn is a beautiful tri-color standard poodle. She had big colorful litters every time! Thank you for bringing so much joy to the world Brooklyn! Clarke, you made a lot of families very happy! Thank you! She loved her puppies so much. Thank you Bailey, you did an awesome job! Gabi is so full of fun and adventure, love and affection! She surprised us with lots of colors, patterns, and unique pups! Gabi, you left your mark! Parker is our big Panda Bear! Parker always had small litters and a huge heart. You did good Parker, thank you! Several of her pups are service dogs. Zoli, you have made a difference in the world. Tragically we lost Cru, and my heart still hurts for her. Cru will forever be at the heart of Ranch House Bernedoodles. Meet the Family Over the years myself and our grown up kids have owned at least 6 doodles and they have all been exceptional. Now we hope to bless other families with the same quality of loving pets that we have enjoyed. We live in Montrose, CO and we are excited to breed bernedoodles. Our goals for our puppies are a great temperament, good health, loving and fun personalities, and high intelligence! We work hard to assure you are getting a wonderful new family member, not just a pet. Bernedoodle Colors and Patterns Bernedoodles come in many colors and patterns. To see the coordinating waitlist, visit this page! Please see this page for more examples of what bernedoodles look like! Here are the most common colors and patterns! Traditional Tri-Colored Bernedoodles have the same pattern and coloring as a berner but with non-shedding hair! The fathers producing traditional tri colored bernedoodles regularly are Sargent Pepper, BB King and Ringo Next, we have the Traditional Tri-Sable which is mostly brown with white berner markings and black or brown points. Up next is the Merle Category! The most important aspect of breeding with the Merle gene involved is making sure only one parent is a Merle gene carrier. This speaks to the importance of finding a great breeder who does genetic testing. Traditional Blue Merle coat color! Jacob, Zeppelin and Jerry are the dads for these beauties! All are non-shedding. Blue Merle only when Jacob is the dad does this color come out shown below. The Phantom color refers to a bi-colored black and white or brown and white bernedoodle without the white berner markings. Also gorgeous! The Brindle Bernedoodle is stunning! This color and pattern combination is one of my all time favorites! Finally, here we have the solid white, black or brown Bernedoodles! Seen mainly in our F1b Mini and micro Bernedoodle litters! Share this:. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Gray Louisiana and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

Final thoughts on crate training What are the benefits of crate training? However, leading animal rights organizations along with reputable training and veterinary experts say that when used correctly, crates provide dogs with a sense of security. Before training begins, you need to choose the right crate. It should be large enough for your dog to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lay down. Chewy offers a helpful crate size chart along with measuring instructions. When purchasing a crate, choose a size appropriate for your Frenchie when fully grown. Place a blanket or soft bed in the crate, and add a favorite toy or bone. Introduce your puppy to the crate by dropping treats directly inside the door to encourage him to enter. Never force him into the crate. Depending on your dog, this step can take from a few minutes to a few days, according to training experts at the Humane Society of the United States HSUS. This helps your Frenchie make a positive association with the crate. The next step is to coax your dog to go in the crate for short periods during the day. Close the door, and sit beside the crate for a few minutes. Your dog now can stay in the crate overnight. Keep the crate in your bedroom at night when potty training so your puppy can alert you when he needs to go out. Are French Bulldogs easy to train? Is crate training good for a French Bulldog? This makes housebreaking easier and helps get your puppy safely through the destructive chewing stage. Additionally, breed experts say that crating keeps French Bulldogs safe when traveling, visiting other homes, or recuperating from an illness or injury that requires rest. Crating also can help Frenchies who suffer from separation anxiety. Editors' Recommendations. Crate training your dog can be very useful for you as well as your Frenchie. You can compare crate training to a cradle for a baby. A dog who has a crate they love is a safe haven for them, just like a cradle is for a baby. Crate training your dog may or may not be an easy task. Either way, a step-by-step plan can only be helpful. And, if followed, will make the end goal easier to reach. Many pet parents feel guilty or unsure about crate training, and understandably so. However, crate training is beneficial for your furry family member and can be a great thing. Your puppy will learn that their crate is their space and where they will rest, so they will want to wait to use the restroom when they are outside. Separation Anxiety Many dogs suffer from anxiety when left alone. This is not uncommon. While being put in a crate can add to their anxiety or stress, their crate can be helpful if it becomes their safe haven and a spot that makes them feel safe. Emergency Use Crate training your dog can lend to be very helpful in case of an emergency. If there is ever a situation where you must evacuate your home or go to a place where a crate is required, having a Frenchie who happily goes into their crate can keep this situation safe and smooth. Another emergency you could face with your dog is surgery on their part or yours. For their or your recovery, being able to have them in their crate is extremely helpful. For Convenience Crate training your dog really helps when it comes to daily life. There are often times when putting your sweet Frenchie away simply makes life easier. These times may include when guests come over for dinner, when fireworks are happening outside, a friend brings their pet over, you have errands to run, etc. A crate not only relieves stress or anxiety your dog may experience when daily life is altered a bit, but it can also help you. Senior Dogs Senior dogs who have been crate-trained will benefit greatly. Older dogs can use their crate as a space to get extra rest. Senior dogs will also like their crate when they no longer have the energy to entertain big groups or children. Crate Options Once you decide that crate training your dog is the right move to make, choosing the best crate will depend on several factors. There are many different crate options depending on your Frenchies size, activity level, and your future plans with the crate. Making sure you select the right crate can make all the difference in creating a comfortable, safe spot for your dog to feel at home. Size Crates come in varying sizes, usually about 20 inches to 48 inches. The ideal size of a crate depends on the size of your dog. Most Frenchies are medium-sized, so a medium-sized crate would be good. The intention is that once your dog is fully grown, they will be able to stretch out and sit up straight in their crate. Before puppies are full-grown, use the divider panel that comes with the crate to expand the crate size as needed. When purchasing a crate, look at the size chart to make the best choice. Crate Types There are three different types of crates: the wire crate, the fabric travel crate, and the plastic travel crate. They are each different. Wire crate A wire crate is the most popular option when crate training your dog. Customer support team based in Indiana We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. It is easy to set up and take with you and is intended for travel as they are lightweight and easy to carry. These crates can easily be chewed on, so they may not be suitable for puppies or any Frenchie that has a habit of chewing. Plastic Travel Crate A plastic travel crate is more robust than the previous two mentioned. It is made of plastic and is also used for travel since it remains set up and is easy to carry. This may be a better option than the fabric crate if you need to transport your dog. They are also easy enough to carry, and your Frenchie is not as easily able to chew them. Some people use these as fixed crates at home, but they are more enclosed than the wire crate. This makes it less desirable for many dogs and owners. Doggy Playpen A playpen is a route some pet owners like to take as opposed to or in addition to crate training your dog. A playpen allows your Frenchie more room for walking around and playing. Playpen Versus Crate Like a crate, a playpen contains your dog in one space. The biggest difference is their size. You may decide to use one over the other depending on your needs. Playpens typically come in two different materials: metal and fabric. The metal playpen is similar to a metal crate, only bigger. Playpen Use: Contain your dog to an area, but give them room to play. You need to leave your dog for a full day more than hours. Your dog prefers a larger space. Crate Use: Contain your dog to a smaller area sometimes makes them feel safer. Sleeptime may go better in a crate. Transportation to another place. You will train your dog to happily go into their playpen as you do the crate treats, slowly increase time, make it a fun space. Having both would allow your pup to have a confined space for sleeping the crate and a bigger area for when they are ready to walk around and play the playpen. You can choose to set the two up in separate places, using each for different purposes and at different times. You can also set the two up together where the crate will open into the playpen. This option would be used with a metal playpen. Of course, this setup will require more space. You could use the following to do so. Bed or Crate Pad A crate pad fits more precisely into a crate than a standard dog bed. Get one that is sturdy and difficult for them to chew, like this chew-resistant pad. Durable crate pads can be pricey, but it beats buying several fluffy, easy-to-chew ones. I like to buy dog pads that have a zip-off cover, making them easier to wash. Your dog will love to cuddle up in this dog bed. This is one tough dog bed. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Chew Toys Chewing can be calming for dogs and gives them something to do while they are in their crate. As mentioned before, providing chew toys will also prevent them from chewing their crate pad. Choosing appropriate toys for your dog is important. Make sure that your Frenchie cannot tear and eat pieces of the chew toy and that it is not too small for them. A chewable stick is a good option. If you have a puppy, you should not leave them in their crate for too long and they also are unable to hold their bladder for too long. In this case, refrain from leaving them water. An option for leaving water in the crate without it becoming a mess is to purchase a snap bowl that easily connects to the side of a wire crate. A regular water and food bowl can be left in the playpen if you leave for an extended amount of time. This can be done with adult dogs, not puppies who need to relieve themselves often. A Possible Step-by-Step Plan for Training Crate training your dog requires a lot of preparation and training, as you may know now. This is only a guide. You know your Frenchie and your situation best, so always do what works for both of you. This plan could also be used for a playpen with alterations where needed. Days Set the crate up and keep the door open for several days. Place a couple of toys and treats in the crate. Place their meal in the crate at times. Allow your Frenchie to choose when they are curious enough to go in the crate. Allow them to explore and find the treats on their own time. Do not shut the door during this time. Shut the door for just a moment while they are in the crate. Stay there and open the door right back up. Increase the length of time, but stay in sight. Days If your dog has responded well to the door closing while you are visible, try closing the door and leaving the room. Start out small and increase the time. Always open the door if they do not respond well. When your dog is able to stay in the crate while you are not visible, try leaving home for just a short time or even stepping outside. Increase this over time. Helping Your Dog Like the Crate In order to ensure that crate training your dog is successful, you want to help your dog like their crate. To do this, it should be a positive experience for them. There are ways to achieve this. Make it comfortable with a crate pad. Give them safe toys to chew on. Before you start to use the crate with the door closed, have the door open for some time, allowing them to go in and out as they please and not make a big deal of it. When you do begin to shut the door, start small by only leaving them in there for a few minutes and slowly increase that time. As mentioned, treats are important for helping your dog feel good about being in the crate. You can use treats to train your dog to go into their crate on their own eventually. Practice this many times before leaving them alone in their crate. Keep training sessions short and repeat them up to several times a day. Tire your dog out by playing with it or walking it before putting them in the crate to help them reach calmness and possibly a level of tiredness that will help them sleep. Length of Time in Crate Once you have trained your dog to freely go into the crate, it is time to try leaving them in the crate for an extended period of time. When you first leave your Frenchie alone in the shut crate, leave home for just a couple of minutes. You can simply go outside your front door to do this. When you return, give a treat and lots of praise. Slowly increase the time they are left in there while you are gone. Puppies should not stay in the crate for more than a couple of hours because they will not have access to water and also use the bathroom more frequently. Once your puppy is older, approximately 6 months, they can stay in the crate for several hours. All dogs are different, and as a pet parent, you should be able to determine how often your dog needs to use the bathroom. If you need to be gone for a full workday, come home on a break, or have a dog sitter let your Frenchie relieve itself at a minimum. Or, you can use the playpen at this time if you have one and your dog is older. There is a very good chance that your Frenchie will whine in the crate. If this happens, you should let your dog out. Maybe you could go on a walk, play together for a bit, or give them a potty break. Then, try again. Otherwise, try to get them to go in peacefully using treats and toys. Provide different or new toys that may pique their interest and distract your dog. If your dog does use the bathroom in their crate, there is likely an issue you resolve. Make their space smaller using the divider that comes with the crate. Use a special cleaner to rid of the smell since dogs often remark the same spots. Give them time to relieve themselves outside right before they go into the crate. Leave them in the crate for a shorter time. Is it Worth It? Most would say yes! Crate training your dog can seem like a lot of work, but all good things do, right? While it takes time and patience, having a Frenchie that can successfully use a crate can really come in handy. As always, your vet can help. Not only can crate training your dog help you as a dog parent, but it also helps your Frenchie in many ways when it comes to their happiness and safety. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. It also satisfies their natural instinct since most of them live indoors. Safe evacuation is easy in case of emergencies. It helps in potty training the dog. Helps in dealing with separation anxiety common in French bulldogs and the cage; they feel more relaxed. Training Caution Training your French bulldog is not an easy task, and it could be worse if the dog starts resisting the crate. Here are some cautions to prevent the canine friend from feeling trapped: French bulldogs love company, and you should never leave them in the crate for too long. When denied interaction, they become anxious and depressed. The longest the dog should stay in the crate is at night, and the best part is it spends this time sleeping. Find the Perfect Crate Size A good cage plays a significant role in excellent crate training for a french bulldog. Get the right style crate, and the size should be reasonable too. Here are the best features of a training crate: Your buddy should be able to turn around and get out of the crate without touching the side borders. The dog should stand in the crate without touching the top. The crate should be taller by a few inches. Additional space helps keep your dog comfortable, easing the training process. If the crate is too big, the dog might wee at the corner, bringing another problem when potty training. When dealing with puppies, they may wee in the crate at times. You need to be extra patient with their small bladder. You will find different crates on the market, and your choice depends on the breed size and temperament. Crates that come with dividers are the best since you can resize the space your dog occupies when the dog grows bigger. Plastic crates work perfectly for smaller breeds. Besides plastic crates working well for smaller breeds, I recommend a wired crate when training your French bulldog. It lets your dog view the environment, and you will also have an easy time supervising him. Another feature to consider with the wired crate is double doors , as it makes the early training phase easier where your dog can enter the crate from both sides. See our post on the best dog crates for French Bulldogs. The introduction saves your dog from the shock of being locked in the cage, especially at night. Introducing your dog to the crate keeps him secure, especially when you rush out for a few minutes. Crate training is a kickoff for the potty-training process. Once your dog learns to stay in the enclosure, he will learn to hold his bowel and bladder for longer, making potty training effortless. Place the crate in the desired area early in the morning, and the dog will spend time surveying it before he gets inside. Never force your dog into the crate because he will feel trapped and start rejecting it. Let him survey the crate from outside. Consider securing the door to avoid incidences that will make your dog fear the crate, do this after every 5 minutes. The time interval also depends on his reaction when in the enclosure. Begin luring your dog into the crate using a couple of toys and treats. Also, adding a fleece blanket and bed to the enclosure will help immensely. Puppies are easier to teach than adult dogs. However, some older dogs will also give you an easy time in training. Let the puppy keep the instinct of having a den, and he will want to spend more time there. Purchase the crate early enough to start training your puppy. As soon as you bring him home, he will adapt easily. French bulldogs are intelligent, and when you are consistent in your training, they will understand. If you have kids, please introduce a house rule that no one should disturb the sleeping dog. Leave the door open once you set up the crate and add blankets and a bed you can include a puppy pad when dealing with one , and your pet will come closer to it. Ensure that the door remains open to prevent it from accidentally hitting your pup; you can even tie the door. Introduce a Play Session A good way of ensuring that your little friend relaxes in the crate is introducing playtime a couple of minutes before the dog enters the cage. Using interactive toys is another way to engage him before he enters his cage. Some play toys, such as tugs, help teach your dog desirable behavior like soft mouthing. Introduce His Favorite Treats Tossing a treat in the crate is a great idea. The dog will get into the crate trying to retrieve it. Ensure you put the treat far into the cage to ensure he gets in with her entire body. It would help if you were cautious about the diet. Showering your little friend with praises is an excellent supplement to treats. Since Frenchies are playful, placing some chew toys in the crate will easily lure them into getting inside. Remember to purchase nontoxic toys, plus supervise your buddy during playtime. Important: Overfeeding your Frenchie with treats can cause vomiting and other health problems. Never use treats as a replacement for food. Take Meals in the Crate Dogs love food, and introducing it to the crate will be an effective way to make them feel happy while in there. You can start by introducing meals in the crate using a clean pet bowl. Taking meals in the crate is also a good way of making him stay in there for longer; after putting the food bowl in the cage, close and open the door at an interval. It creates a good impression. Repeat the process after every meal. After feeding, start by leaving the room for a couple of minutes. Use this time to complete simple activities and leave the crate closed. Keep increasing the stay-away duration gradually. To avoid raising the alarm, leave without saying goodbye or something that will make her feel that you are leaving. Adding a playpen to the mix is an excellent way to create a larger play space that will help him adapt to the new environment. Potty breaks before sleeping will help reduce waking up. Move the crate to your room, and you can hear your little one waking up for the potty breaks. A crate cover saves the night by minimizing distractions from outside, and your French bulldog will sleep longer. Be Patient French bulldogs can be fearful, and patience is vital in this case. Never think of punishing your dog. Keep the Buddy Comfortable With the dog battling separation anxiety, keeping him comfortable is vital. If you just picked a puppy from your breeder, ensure he sleeps in a warm and cozy area. During the cold season, add some blankets on the sides of the crate for warmth, being careful with ventilation. A puppy heat pad will help immensely. It works well for almost all dogs, and I love the maximum ventilation that comes with it. Most wired crates are foldable and portable , making traveling with your dog easier or moving it to another room. Most of them include a divider that helps adjust the space for your growing pet. A double-door wired crate is the best for training. Not forgetting that when your buddy is in there, he sees the environment and is less likely to experience anxiety. Plastic crates also work well for small breeds, especially when traveling. These cages work perfectly during car travels , plus they are den-like and minimize light from outside that distracts the sleeping puppy at night. The best part is your wooden crates come in many designs. Before leaving your pup, you need to stay around the cage for a couple of minutes before leaving. When leaving the house, direct the dog to the crate and utter the command, and when he obeys, leave him with a yummy treat. Introduce a consistent departure routine, and the dog will soon adapt to not seeing you around for a couple of hours. Chew toys will work well for younger dogs by helping them with teeth issues. You can also introduce dental toys to older dogs to help remove tartar and plaque. Interactive toys also work well during exercising and playtime before getting into the crate. Once you are done playing, the dog will be yearning to relax in the crate. Remember, most dogs suffer from separation anxiety and may have difficulty adapting to crates. However, the earlier you start training your dog, the better. In the training process, you are likely to encounter: Whining You may experience it during the first few days when the clingy friend feels uneasy when left in the crate. With time, this bad behavior should subside. But if the whining and barking continue, attend to him; he might be having a health problem. Destructive chewing When your little friend is overwhelmed with separation anxiety, they will likely get into destructive chewing. Sometimes it could be a sign that the buddy is hungry. Are French Bulldogs Hard to Train? The task is not easy, but you will love the whole process with consistency. Adult Frenchies may prove stubborn, but with consistency, they will adapt. The earlier you start the training, the better. Do French Bulldogs Require Exercise? Your dog needs exercise. It helps her keep the right weight. Wrap Up French bulldogs are friendly, and crate training them is the best thing. Remember that these dogs love cuddling, and you need to set aside some minutes for it. Feel free to drop a question on crate training a French bulldog or ask for clarification in the comments. All the best in your crating journey. Meet our writer Jen Clifford is an animal behaviorist and veterinary technician with more than a decade of hands-on experience working in small animal and specialty veterinary clinics. Leave a Comment. Put the crate in the car with your Frenchie in it, and take them around the block for a short drive first. When you get home, take them out and give lots of praise! Next time, you can even take them for a short shopping and so on, keeping everything smooth and gradual. When is it recommended to crate your Frenchie? For example, when traveling with a puppy on a plane or in a car, using a portable plastic crate or a soft crate is almost essential. Place a soft and comfortable bed for your Frenchie there with their favorite toys, especially one they can chew on. They may even develop separation anxiety, which you can read more about here. Should you crate your Frenchie at night? Read our blog post about how you can train your Frenchie to sleep in their bed. At the beginning, your fur baby might cry for you, which is completely normal at that point. Are you maybe looking for your second fur baby? Two Frenchies are always better than one , so feel free to check out our available puppies here! Visit our webshop to find some great Frenchie crates and carriers from Chewy that we recommend for your fur baby! The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them, and show puppies from their breed. If you have any questions or comments let us know below the article! Also when you wish to teach your Frenchie to relieve themselves in the right area. Take you Frenchie outdoors to where you want him to use as a bathroom. He may be easily distracted and want to play so make sure you are firm with your instructions. Praise your Frenchie with excitement when they relieve themselves in the correct place outside. Oh and do not forget to do this last thing at night too! Your Frenchies crate should have just enough room for him or her to turn and lay down. Dogs will not usually relieve themselves where they sleep unless they are left for too long. You can give your Frenchie a treat when he or she does well in potty training. But if your Frenchie has an accident in your presence then scold it and quickly move them outside. It is important to remember that your French Bulldog puppy has a small bladder. Make sure they have the chance to relieve themselves every 2 hours and at night when required. Please do not crate your French Bulldog puppy for longer than 4 hours when they are small. Do not scold your Frenchie if it has an accident and you do not witness it, it will only confuse them. Potty Training Your French Bulldog Each time the puppy goes in the right spot, he is being trained to relieve himself there. Consistent training with your puppy will bring consistent results You may found it helpful to have an exercise pen for the house, and one for the yard. But please so not leave your Frenchie out in cold or alone in hot weather. Place the other exercise pen in the spot you wish your Frenchie puppy to use as a permanent potty spot, both as a puppy and adult. Use your Happy Voice! Make sure you take your Frenchie puppy outdoors to eliminate on a regular schedule and especially prior to being left for prolonged periods of time. He will start to circle and sniff and look for a place to potty when he has to go and when you are watching him, you can quickly take him to his potty spot. Minimize his chances of making a mistake by predicting when he will need to relieve himself. If you are going to be playing and interacting with your puppy, then it is absolutely fine for him to be out of his crate as long as you like. Times to watch are : As soon as he awakens, as soon as he finishes a meal, first thing in the morning, after a play session, and as soon as you take him out of his crate. Do NOT let your puppy run lose when your eyes are not on him, even for a couple minutes. Each time your puppy has an accident, he is being trained to potty in that spot. Housebreaking is the most indispensable thing your French bulldog puppy needs to learn. Ordinary sound judgement ought to reveal to you why. Besides the preservation of your general domestic hygiene, trained dogs are contented dogs. Using a Crate Helps As we outlined earlier on this page, French Bulldog trainers recommend using a crate in housebreaking your French Bull puppy. A crate is similar to a cage, having you can see through bars and a locking door that locks. Its area ought to fit sufficiently the dogs dimensions for it to move about in. It is advised to not confine your puppy in his crate for longer than two hours at a time. The thinking supporting using a crate in housebreaking your puppy is that dogs would not foul their areas where they sleep areas. Nevertheless, he may do so if you confine him in somewhere for longer than he can keep it in. At no time use a crate to penalize your dog, it would boomerang. This way out ought to be the one that you desire your French bulldog to scratch to advise you concerning his being called by nature. Taking your pup out at approximately the identical times every day would be extremely useful for the both of you. This would assist in establishing a habit, and would force him learn to keep it in waiting for you to become ready to accompany him out. Watch For Clues If your un-housebroken French bulldog is used to roaming unrestricted about the home, look for signs that indicate to you he needs to do it. Be absolutely watchful enough of his behaviour, i. Subsequently, accompany him into the outdoors and let him conclude what he had started. Offering him treats as a bonus whenever he does his business in the appropriate place can be very useful, too. Being Patient is a Big Asset Similar to any disciplinary endeavour, housebreaking requires a lot of tolerance. Thinking logically ought to let you know you to not give your dog water previous to bedtime if his inclination is to pee frequently at during the night time. Following his timetable as top priority should turn out to be extremely useful in having it slowly switch into yours. Besides tolerance and common sense, regularity is likewise one of the significant factors of this dog disciplining exercise. Bear in mind that the stakes are significant dirty and foul-smelling house. Allocate sufficient time and dedication on your side. We recommend that you should get the little guy out for a walk as soon as he or she wakes up, after play time and also after any eating or drinking. Tip Two… Confine your Frenchie if there is a chance that supervision is going to be a problem. If you limit your dog to a crate or confined space then they will refuse to relieve themselves in what they would see as living quarters or sleeping quarters. This also goes back to their clean breed set up. Tip Three… Keep your eyes peeled for any warning signs from your French Bulldog! They will include things like circling in the room, pacing around from one room to another, some sniffing about, whining, maybe even a little barking. Remember, if you spot any of these sure fire signs then immediately take your Frenchie outside to eliminate. When they finish heap loads of praise on them while they are still outside or on the training mat and give them a little treat. It will not take long for them to get used to this command and eventually just go outside! You want to eliminate the odor of urine and feces around the house as when the dog smells this around the house he or she will be more inclined to use it to go to the toilet. A good tip is to remove the guys little accident into the back garden or yard and leave it out there, that way they can identify the spot with where to go potty. Frenchies have an estimated 15 minute attention span so when you are training your little friend then make sure you keep that in mind as anything over this and he will already be losing his focus. If you schedule these little bursts of training sessions throughout your day, you will make more progress and keep these sessions happier for both of you. Make sure that you have established yourself as the Alpha leader with your Frenchie. They will always respond better to training when they know who is in charge at all times. This does not mean that you have to hurt or dominate your French Bulldog. It can be as simple as ensuring that you always eat first at mealtimes before giving him his food. Do not limit rewards to your French Bulldog to just when he follows your commands. If you see him doing good positive things reward him then too. He will catch on very quickly! It will get him used to what he needs to respond to. When giving commands to your Frenchie make sure that you are serious at all times. Do not reward or scold your French Bulldog for something they did 15 or more minutes ago. They will not associate the action with the event! They have terrible memories remember! Your Frenchie may do funny things that are also bad. This will only confuse your dog and make training harder down the line. Training Your French Bulldog To Use A Leash And Collar There are many different techniques you can use to train your French Bulldog on a lash or a collar , and it is important to find one that works for you and your family in order to have the most loyal and well-behaved pet possible. It is fortunate that French Bulldogs are innately programmed to submit to a leader, it allows them to follow commands and make training easier. Each French Bulldog has its own personality, which is emphasized even further by many years of selective breeding. The personalities of individual French Bulldogs can be very different, even within the same breed. It is up to you, as the owner, to determine which method of training will work best for your French Bulldog, so it is important to work with the trainer in order to attain your goal of an eager, well-trained and friendly French Bulldog. For example, certain working French Bulldogs, such as police French Bulldogs, rescue French Bulldogs or guard French Bulldogs, tend to gain from leash and collar training. The level of correction used should be relative to the situation, as too much correction, or not enough, can prove unproductive. Once the French Bulldog seems to understand the command, the leash is then used to modify incorrect behaviors. The leash is used as the main form of control and communication with the French Bulldog in this form of training. The French Bulldog is considered fully trained when the handler is able to show that the French Bulldog will follow a command even if he does not want to. While this does not mean using brute force, it will likely necessitate some physical handling. This type of handling is most effectively completed by use of the leash. Anyone attempting to train his or her French Bulldog should understand that the leash is merely a device. While the leash is necessary for this style of French Bulldog training, it is important for the French Bulldog trainer to strive for the same results using whatever gear are nearby. Building a trusting relationship between owner and French Bulldog is vital, and it is important that the leash is used as a tool rather than a crutch. A properly trained French Bulldog should be eager to obey with or without a leash. Knowing what you want to train is as important as training your French Bulldog. You can begin training almost immediately, at around six weeks of age. A puppy is a blank slate and does not know any rules, therefore it is a wise idea to make a list and have an understanding of what you would like your puppy to do. What are the household rules and proper dog etiquette? As he grows, the same principle applies and you may adjust training from the basics to more specialized behaviors, such as making your dog a good travel, hiking, agility, hunting, or simply a companion dog. Know what conditions and circumstances you plan to expose your dog or puppy to outside of the household and strategize to be prepared for those encounters by slowly introducing your dog to those situations. Establish yourself as the pack leader from the time you first bring your new dog or puppy home. Life is much easier for your dog if you are in charge, leading, and providing for his needs. Leading as the alpha assists in the act of working together with your dog towards the goal of understanding the rules of conduct and obedience. Your dog will be at ease when the rules are understood. Training should be an enjoyable bonding time between you and your French bulldog. Remember that there is no set time limit defining when your dog should learn, understand, and then obey commands. Use short training sessions and be aware that if either of you are tired, it is recommended that you stop and try again later. If something does not seem quite right with your dog, in any way, have him checked out by a veterinarian. Timing is crucial when rewarding for good behaviors and making corrections for bad. Patience and Consistency are your allies in the training game. An easy way to avoid the onset of many different behavioral problems is to give your dogs or puppies ample daily exercise to keep them fit and healthy, and destructive behavioral problems at bay. Always provide consistent structure, firm but fair authority, rule enforcement, and importantly, love and affection. By maintaining these things, you will help to create a loyal companion and friend. Reward good behaviors, not for simply being cute, sweet, loveable, and huggable. If you wish to reward your dog, always reward after you issue a command and your dog obeys appropriately. Only train one command per session. Puppies only have the attention span to go about 10 minutes per session, but never exceed 15 minutes. Training a command once per day is enough for your dog to begin to learn and retain, but whenever the opportunity presents itself you should reinforce the training sessions throughout the day. For example, opening a door or putting down a food bowl first command sit, down or stay and be sure not to reward your dog unless your dog obeys. The most important thing to remember is to remain relaxed, keep it fun, and enjoy this time of bonding and training your dog or puppy. All dogs have their own personalities and therefore respond to training differently. No matter the breed that comes with its own characteristics, you need to account for individual personality and adjust accordingly. If needed, do not hesitate to solicit professional help and advice. We all love treats, and so does your dog. Giving your dog a treat is the best way to reinforce good behavior, to help change his behavior or just to make your dog do that insanely funny dance- like-thing he does. Make the treats small enough for him to get a taste, but not a meal, kernel sized. Remember, you do not want him filling up on treats as it might spoil his dinner and interfere with his attention span. You do not want to miss a chance to reward a good behavior or reinforce a changed behavior. Always carry treats when you go on a walk. Remember what treats your dog likes most and save those for super special times. In addition, what you consider a treat and what your dog considers a treat are two vastly different worlds. A single malt scotch or chicken wings might be a treat in your mind, but dried liver bits or beef jerky in your dogs. Tell your dog to sit, stay, or lie down, print two copies of your resume, anything, before you reward your dog with treats, petting, or play. By asking for good behavior, before you give your dog a reward, you demonstrate you are in charge, in an easy fun manner. There is a common misconception that dogs are selfless and wanting to behave only to please out of respect for you. This is horse pucky. This line of thinking is incorrect and detrimental to your success with the training. You have to make sure that your dog knows exactly why he should be listening to you. You are the alpha, the keeper of the treats, the provider of the scratching and the purveyor of toys. Keep this balance of power and the results will be your reward. Do not send mixed messages. Simply, ignore the bad behavior and reward your dog when he does the action you request to be done. You will be continuously training your companion, but use the formal training sessions to focus on one objective. Any session longer than 15 minutes will be hard for your dog to stay focused. During training, this is the attention span of most canines. Ten minutes per session is a good time limit for young puppies. Some breeds stay puppies longer than others stay, and may not fully develop until year two. Use a variety and an abundance of different treats and rewards. Rewards are play, toys, praise, affection, treats, and anything that you know that your dog enjoys. When you master this one, it will make life easier for both of you when at home, and either at the groomer or the vet. It also helps when there is unwanted or accidental touching and especially when dealing with small children who love to handle dogs in all sorts of unusual and not so regular ways. This one will take patience and a few tricks to get it started. Remember, it is important to begin handling your new puppy immediately after you find each other and are living together. Understand that muzzles are not bad and do not hurt dogs. They can be an effective device and a great safety feature when your dog is learning to be handled. Easy cheese or peanut butter spread on the floor or on the refrigerator door should keep your puppy in place while he learns to be handled. If your puppy does not like to be handled, he can slowly learn to accept it. You must practice this with your puppy for at least one to three minutes each day so that he becomes comfortable with being touched. All dogs are unique and therefore some will accept this easier and quicker than others will. Handling training will be a life-long process. With all of the following exercises, follow these steps: — Begin with short, non-intrusive gentle touching. When he settles, treat him and remove your hands. Overstimulation can cause your puppy stress. Handling the Body Paws in the clause It is a fact that most puppies do not like to have their paws touched. Proceed slowly with this exercise. The eventual goal is for your puppy to adore his paws being fondled. In the following exercises, any time your puppy does not squirm and try to get away, click and treat your pup. If he does squirm, stay with him using gentle contact, when your pup ceases wiggling, then click and treat, and release when he calms down. Each one of these steps will take a few days to complete and will require at least a dozen repetitions. Make sure you successfully complete each step and your puppy is at least tolerant of the contact before you go on to the next one. Repeat this five times and then continue forward by adding an additional one second each time you pick up his paw until ten seconds is reached. Begin with two seconds then in different sessions work your way to twelve. It is not easy and it can cause extreme pain to your dog if you are not properly trained. Do this about ten times or until your puppy seems comfortable and relaxed with it. Increase the amount of time until you have achieved about ten seconds of holding and your puppy remains calm. Click and treat after each elapsed amount of time. Work your way up 2,4,6,8 to 10 seconds of holding. This may take several days and sessions. If he accepts this and does not resist, click and treat, and repeat. Repeat this step until he is content with it. Now, switch to the top of the collar and repeat the whole progression again. Remember slowly increase the time held and the intensity of the tug using a slow pace. You can practice touching the collar while you are treating during training other tricks. Gently hold the bottom or top of the collar when you are giving your dog a treat reward for successfully completing a commanded behavior. Then release when he does not resist, click and treat. Be cautious with this one. If any of this is confusing, do not worry, because I walk you through the training process, step-by-step. Clicker training started over seventy years ago and has become a tried and true method for training dogs and other animals. The outcome of using a clicker is an example of conditioned reinforcement. Rewarding the animal in combination with clicker use has proven highly effective as a positive reinforcement training method. It is a humane and effective way of training dogs without instilling fear for non-compliance. I know that my mother wished she would have known about clicker training when my brother and I were growing up. I am sure she would have put the clicker into action so my brother would place his dirty clothes inside the bin, rather than on the floor. In the s, Keller Breland, a pioneer in animal training, used a clicker while training many different species of animals, including marine mammals. He met great success using this method of training on these animals. His system developed for clicker training marine mammals is still in use today. Keller also trained dogs using the clicker. Because of its effectiveness, it was brought into use by others in the dog training community. The success of the clicker spans 7 decades and now is a widely accepted standard for dog training. A trainer will use the clicker to mark desired actions as they occur. At the exact instant, the animal performs the desired action, the trainer clicks and promptly delivers a food reward or other reinforcements. For example, clicking and rewarding slightly too early or too late will reinforce the action that is occurring at that very instant rather than the action you were targeting the reward for. Shaping is the process of gradual transformation of a specific action into the desired action by rewarding each successive progression towards the desired action. This is done by gradually molding or training the dog to perform a specific response by first, reinforcing the small, successive responses that are similar to the desired response, instead of waiting for the perfect completion to occur. The trainer looks for small progressions that are heading in the direction towards the total completion of the desired action and then clicks and treats. It is important to recognize and reward those tiny steps made in the target direction. During training, the objective is to create opportunities for your dog to earn frequent rewards. During training, and in conjunction with clicker use, the introduction of a cue word or hand signal can be applied. Eventually, the clicker can be phased out in favor of a cue or cues that have been reinforced during the training sessions. As a result, your dog will immediately respond by reacting, obeying, and performing actions to your hand gestures or verbal commands. Watching this unfold is a highly satisfying process, which empowers your friend to be the best he can, and while you have fulfilled your role as alpha and pack leader. Why is clicking effective over using a word cue first? The clicking sound is a unique sound that is not found in nature, and it is more precise than a verbal command. Verbal commands can be confusing because the human voice has many tonal variations, whereas the clicker consistently makes a sound that your dog will not confuse with any other noise. It is also effective because it is directed at him and followed by good things. Therefore, your dog completely understands which action is desired and your dog will quickly understand that the click is followed by a reward. The clicker sound is produced in a quick and accurate way that is in response to the slightest actions that your dog makes. This clarity of function of this tool increases the bond between you and your dog, as a result making your dog more interested in the training sessions, and ultimately your relationship more engaging and entertaining. Dare I say fun? On that note, do not forget to always have fun and add variety to your training sessions. Variety is the spice of life, mix up those treats, rewards, and commands. Clicker training works this way At the exact instant the action occurs, the trainer clicks. Usually the reward is a small kernel sized food treat, but a reward can be a toy, play, or affection. Whatever the dog enjoys is a reward worth giving. In as soon as clicks have been issued a dog will associate the sound of the click with something it enjoys. Once the association is made, it will repeat the action it did when hearing the click. The three steps are as follows: 1. Get the action you request 2. Mark the action with your clicker 3. Reinforce the action with a reward. 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I just did an online application. I didn't answer this many questions when I applied for my mortgage. It was an interrogation , and a redundant one at that. Between all the questions and the home visit and reference check and fees. I might as well go buy a dog. I had a wonderful amazing pug from the time she was 10 weeks till she passed away. I did anything and everything for that dog. I finally feel ready to open my heart to a new dog and these rescues are ridiculous. But here's the thing: It's absolutely vital that shelters do a thorough screening because it's better to have the dog sit in the shelter than having them potentially shipped off to fighting rings, neglected at least they're fed in the shelters and get training, human interaction etc. However, when it gets ridiculous is when a shelter denies somebody interested in a rescue pug to adopt one because he has no huge yard while having exercise opportunities outside. Breeders are the same. To be honest, I'd request full transparency to give a good forever home and enough people will do that, I did too with my breeder and would've gone even further. It's a two-way street though, so feel free to ask them questions to weed out the bad eggs among shelters too! Cheers, Danielle. We come from many walks of life, and have agreed to donate our many and varied talents so that pugs everywhere can live out their lives with comfort, love and care. We are all volunteers, with no paid employees. Each person serves in the way best suited to their lifestyle and individual skills. We are proud of the way we have built this organization. We have determined that our common welfare and the welfare of the pug breed must come first. Our leaders are but trusted servants, in that they do not govern. There is no power structure, just a service structure. The only requirement for membership is a desire to help homeless pugs and promote education about the breed and the need for domestic animal population control. We allow, and strongly encourage participation in other groups, rescues, and shelters, as it is the best way to strengthen the rescue effort and make sure that our motto is upheld: "Let no pug go unloved. We give rescued pugs veterinary care, a nurturing foster environment, and permanent placement into a loving home. In addition, we offer education to the public on the special responsibilities of pug ownership and the need for domestic animal population control. Make a donation today! Wyoming Pug Rescue Be patient! It might take months to find the perfect pug for you. Be patient with the process. Do your research. Before agreeing to work with a rescue, read their reviews, their policies, and check their c 3 status. You can do a search for their records here. The adoption process can take anywhere from days, to weeks, to months. Does the rescue adopt out of state? What is the adoption fee? Is the application open or do you have to apply for a specific dog? Are you allowed to meet available dogs before adopting? Be Kind Pug rescues are run by dedicated volunteers who spend their free time helping needy pugs. Always be kind and respectful. They work hard so that you can bring home your new pup. Common Pug Rescue Questions Are there pug puppies for adoption? Pug puppies are incredibly popular, so getting your hands on one available for adoption might be difficult. The best way to have a chance at adopting a pug puppy is to turn in an adoption application and become approved for adoption early, if possible. Then wait for a puppy to become available. Is there a pug shelter? Are there black pugs for adoption? Pug rescues rescue pugs of all sizes, ages, mixes, and colors. There tend to be more fawn pugs available, but there are also black pugs, apricot pugs, and more. No pug rescue in your area? Use Petfinder to locate an adoptable pug near you. Vocality level 5 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 ACA delightful blend of dignity and comedy, the Pug is an amiable, playful, and confident companion. They can be stubborn and headstrong, but they are pleasant and generally willing to please. They love to cavort and show off. Upkeep The Pug needs daily exercise, either in the form of a lively game or a moderate walk. They do not do well in heat and humidity. They needs minimal coat care but daily cleaning of facial wrinkles. Their smooth coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hairs; however, the wrinkles need regular cleaning and drying to prevent skin infections. The Pug may often wheeze and snore. Health Major concerns: Pug dog encephalitis, CHD, brachycephalic syndrome Minor concerns: elongated palate, stenotic nares, patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes, entropion, KCS, skin infections, hemivertebra Occasionally seen: seizures, nerve degeneration, distichiasis, allergies, demodicosis Suggested tests: eye, hip, knee, DNA Pug dog encephalitis Life span: 12—15 years Note: The Pug cannot tolerate heat and is sensitive to anesthesia. They are prone to corneal abrasion and obesity. The Pug is somewhat of an exception in the Toy Group because they are perhaps the only one to be descended from mastiff forebears. Although their exact ancestry has been lost in antiquity, the Pug retains many mastiff characteristics. The Pug is an ancient breed, one of several miniaturized in the Orient, where they were a favorite pet of Buddhist monasteries in Tibet many centuries ago. Here they became quite popular and were recognized as the official dog of the House of Orange after one saved the life of Prince William by sounding an alarm at the approach of Spanish soldiers in .Pugs were first brought to England during Victorian times and became incredibly popular with the wealthy, displacing the King Charles Spaniel as the favored royal breed. Several Pugs were brought to England from China in .A year earlier, the breed had been recognized by the AKC. Since that time, they have remained popular a pet. Related Content.

Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. Check with the breeder for up-to-date information on puppy availability. But it could be time-consuming to find breeders of healthy, well-behaved Poodle puppies from good lines. However, we can save you time and from the trouble of finding a reputable Poodle breeder. Leverage our experience and expertise for your peace of mind. She will discuss with you what to expect when expecting a Poodle and prep you for Poodle parenthood. To get started, email your name and zip code to FindMeAPuppy bestpoodle. However, when looking for a puppy from a breeder, we recommend that you do your due diligence. Do not just jump into buying a puppy from a breeder. Take your time to research the breeder. Note that in addition to the price you pay for a poodle puppy, owning a poodle comes with the cost of taking care of a poodle. And owning a poodle can be expensive because poodles require frequent grooming because of the nature of their coats. Learn about how much it costs to own and keep a poodle here. We wish you the best of luck as you are about to embark on the beautiful journey of owning a Poodle! Education Certificates Welcome We are a small home based kennel producing few litters a year. We have toys and tiny toy poodles. I breed mostly black, white, or brown Toy Poodle Puppies. Seven champions have resulted in years of careful breeding. All the poodles are raised in my home and puppies have lots of socialization and interaction with people. I will help guide you to choose the right puppy for your home and family. Your family is encouraged to visit and see how the puppies are raised and to meet the parents. Please visit the available puppy page. Poodles are an incredible non shedding breed and are very compliant in nature. We do not sell to pet stores or brokers. We are NOT a puppy mill and breed Poodles only. The facility has a current inspection certificate from the American Kennel Club. They inspect records for accuracy, check for cleanliness and condition of the dogs. All stud dogs have DNA testing on file to insure parentage and every Poodle is microchipped for identification. Feel free to call or email for more information. I love to talk Poodles! We are 20 minutes from the Virginia State line and 5 miles from the Maryland Line. Contact Miniature Poodle Highly intelligent and one of the most trainable breeds. Pleasant, happy, and sensitive. Perky and lively. Demanding and delightful. Very amusing and clever. Likes to be with his people. Tends to be reserved with strangers; should be well socialized as a puppy. Any effort the owner puts into training and socialization will be well rewarded. Some bloodlines may be high-strung and timid. May snap if teased or surprised. History The Poodle is most likely descended from early German water retrievers, but may also be related to spaniels from the Iberian Peninsula. Hunters originally clipped the dog's thick coat to help it swim, leaving hair on the leg joints to protect them from extreme cold and sharp reeds. The French capitalized on the breed's high intelligence, trainability, and innate showmanship, using the Poodle as a circus performer. The breed's great popularity in that country led to the common name, French Poodle. The Poodle has also been used to sniff out truffles lying underground in the woods. Poodles are depicted in 15th-century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 16th century. Toy Poodles became royal favorites, particularly in the 18th century. The Toy and Miniature Poodle varieties were bred down from the original larger dogs, now known as Standard Poodles. The three sizes are considered as one breed, and are judged by the same standard. Today, the Poodle is primarily a companion and show dog, though he can learn almost anything. Contact Poodle The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart, active and excels in obedience training. The breed comes in three size varieties, which may contribute to why Poodle is one of the most popular breeds according to AKC Registration statistics. Poodles can be a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray, and parti-colored. History The breed originated in Germany as a water retriever. The patches of hair left on the body are meant to protect vital organs and joints which are susceptible to cold. The Standard variety is the oldest of the three varieties. Ranked second most intelligent dog breed just behind the Border Collie, the poodle is skillful in many dog sports and activities, including agility, obedience, tracking to herding, circus performers or assistance dogs. Temperament The Poodle can accommodate nearly any size living quarters. His hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires regular professional grooming. Poodles are an active breed and require daily exercise. Water retriever, companion.