labrador puppies georgia

Welcome to Lakewinds. Located in Connecticut, we have been breeding and exhibiting these two wonderful breeds for around thirty years. Sit back, relax and enjoy our beautiful, healthy puppies and adults whose pedigree's include dogs imported from some of the finest kennels in England. We have the highest quality for the discerning fancier. Laney our lovely blue merle collie is now Ch. Lakewinds Wisteria Layne. Thank you Judge Mr. Walter Sommerfelt!!! June 13th. Thank you Judge Michele Billings. May 11th. Lakewinds Invictus goes Best of Breed at the St. Thank you Judge Roland Pelland!! April 14th. Oklahoma Kennel club. Thank you Breeder Judge James E. April 8th. Thank you breeder judge Michael Rathje. April 7th. Thank you breeder judge Mr. James P. Cardello, "Q" now has 11 points towards the title of Champion in just two weekends of specialty shows. April 6th. Thank you breeder judge Darlene Stuedemann for giving "Kindred" this prestigeous win coming from the Veteran class. Thank you breeder judge Pat Tinsley. Thank you breeder judge Mrs. Darlene Stuedemann. March 18th. Duwane Miller. March 17th. Caroline Miller. March 16th. Dean Dickey. This was "Q"s very first show. March 1st. Lakewinds Bali Hai has a litter of four boys two girls, sired by Ch. Lakewinds Invictus aka "Lumpy" February 11th. Glen Carr. November 25th. October 18th. Lakewinds Abbey Lane "Abby" gives birth to 6 healthy pups. August 14th. Lakewinds Infinitum "Tripp" finishes his championship with four majors. Thank you Breeder Judge Mrs. Cindy Roten. Thank you Judge Mrs. Charlotte Patterson. August 12th. July 21st. July 10th. Philip Capozzolo. July 8th. July 6th. May 15th. Thank you Breeder Judge Mr. Wayne H. Brower who also awarded "Tripp" Best Puppy in Specialty show. Thank you Judge Ms. Robert Rodenski. No flash player! It looks like you don't have flash player installed. Click here to go to Macromedia download page. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T.

Red skin Recurring skin infections If you notice any of these signs in your American Bulldog, contact your veterinarian for guidance. Feeding your American Bulldog a diet formulated for large-breed dogs as both a puppy and an adult is recommended for optimal growth and wellness. As American Bulldog puppies mature, feeding them two meals a day is recommended. Nutritional Tips for American Bulldogs Avoid feeding your dog table scraps, which may be dangerous to their health. Dogs fed a complete and balanced commercial food diet should not need any nutritional supplements unless recommended by a veterinarian. Because they are so loyal to their family, they can be useful watch dogs that bark to alert you when anything is amiss. A well-trained and socialized American Bulldog will typically get along with other pets and with young children. American Bulldog Behavior American Bulldogs can be watchful over their family and, as with every other dog breed, early training and socialization is vital. They are large, active dogs who need to be kept busy physically and mentally. Playtime and long walks are important for American Bulldogs—though they also enjoy a good afternoon nap. American Bulldog Training American Bulldogs are a large, active breed that require dedicated training. They can pick up training cues quickly, especially when training sessions are done consistently and with positive reinforcement. Fun Activities for American Bulldogs Agility. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic American Bulldog Overview American Bulldogs are generally happy, family-loving dogs that do well in homes where they have plenty of space to roam. A big, fenced-in backyard is practically a must-have for one of these energetic dogs, though exercise needs may vary by specific type and breeding. They may be just fine with urban life, so long as they get plenty of walks, and they can even make good jogging or running buddies. They do not, however, take very well to being left alone for long periods of time, and they can feel cooped up in an apartment. American Bulldogs need experienced owners who can be patient with training and start socialization early. Whether they are used for hunting and farm work or just cuddling up with their humans, the American Bulldog makes for an excellent, loyal companion and a competent watchdog. American Bulldog Highlights Temperament: They are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and affection toward their families. American Bulldogs are often described as gentle giants, making them good family pets. Intelligence: These dogs are intelligent and trainable, but they can also be strong-willed. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training are crucial to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults. Exercise Needs: American Bulldogs are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy activities like daily walks, playtime, and even agility training. Lifespan: The average lifespan of an American Bulldog is around 10 to 15 years, depending on genetics, diet, and overall care. Family Compatibility: American Bulldogs can make excellent family pets when raised in a loving and consistent environment. They are known for their patience with children and are protective of their human family members. Guardian Instinct: Due to their protective nature, American Bulldogs can be good guard dogs. They are naturally watchful and alert, which makes them capable of providing security. These two lines may have slight differences in appearance and temperament. Always check local laws and regulations before acquiring one of these dogs. American Bulldog History The ancestor of the American Bulldog is the Old English Bulldog, which was brought to North America by working class immigrants who wanted to keep their working dogs to help on the farms. Rather than being concerned with maintaining breed purity or certain genetic traits, early farmers bred the dogs with the best working qualities for all-around farm work. Wild pigs were an invasive species not native to the American south that had no natural predators, and the strong jaws and muscular build of the American Bulldog was perfect for hunting them down. They were originally used in the barbaric sport of bull baiting. By the end of World War II, the American Bulldog was almost extinct until a few breeders scoured the south for specimens to revive the breed. Today, the American Bulldog is in no danger of extinction and is mostly a family-friendly companion. Adorable American Bulldog puppies will grow to 20 to 28 inches in height and 60 to pounds by the time they reach adulthood. Although these sizes are considered to be standard for the breed, American Bulldogs can be quite a bit larger or smaller. American Bulldog Personality American Bulldogs are friendly, intelligent, and affectionate , though that affectionate nature often leads them to be territorial and overly suspicious of strangers. This makes them lovely family dogs and watchdogs, even for families with children, but they will need socialization training, especially as puppies to get along with unfamiliar humans or other dogs that stop by for a visit. Luckily, their intelligence makes them highly adaptable and trainable. The American Bulldog is a playful breed that has some high exercise needs, and they do well in families that are able to stay active with lots of walks and play time. They can develop in American Bulldogs and may require surgical removal for treatment. It can lead to itching, hair loss, and skin irritation. Treatment typically involves medicated baths and sometimes oral medications. This can lead to weight gain, lethargy, skin issues, and other health problems. It is usually managed with lifelong medication. It can lead to lameness and discomfort, and severe cases may require surgical intervention. Elbow Dysplasia : Elbow dysplasia is another developmental disorder affecting the elbows. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected limb. Treatment may involve medication, weight management, and in some cases, surgery to correct the condition. American Bulldog Care Most of the care that is necessary for the health of an American Bulldog is meeting their needs for exercise and mental stimulation. Failing to do so can result in anxiety, boredom, and destructive behavior. So long as those needs are met, the rest is fairly standard. Maintain normal vet visits, check their ears weekly, keep up with monthly nail clipping and normal dental care. One of the issues you may face is the potential for drooling that is common among bully breeds. You should take care to wipe your dog as needed unless you want a generous amount of slobber all over your home. American Bulldog Feeding An American Bulldog diet should be formulated for a large to giant breed, and their high energy level should be taken into consideration. Their needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood. You should discuss with them how to form an appropriate diet for your dog. Traditionally they are white with patches of brindle, red, or black, but there are quite a few more color variations to the breed in modern times. They may have patterns that include shades of black, red, brindle, brown, or fawn. American Bulldogs usually have black on the nose and the rims of the eyes, but they may also have shades of pink. Their eye color is usually brown. Although these are breed standards, some American Bulldogs have been known to be merle or have coats that contain shades of blue. Weekly brushing should keep it under control with baths as needed. So long as they are trained properly, American Bulldogs are great with children and are very loyal to all members of the family. It is also important to train children on how to properly handle and treat animals to avoid incident. American Bulldogs are large animals, and overly energetic play can cause injuries. The same can be said for interactions with other pets. So long as American Bulldogs are socialized and trained, they usually get along with other dogs just fine. Play should be supervised, especially with smaller dogs that can easily get hurt when playing with a large, muscular American Bulldog. You can also check local shelters near you, or you can use our adoption page that lets you search by breed and zip code for adoptable dogs. American Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Their personalities are easy to love; they have a confident demeanor and are known for their almost clown-like antics when excited, making them an excellent family companion. This breed is quite family-oriented but may be distant with strangers at first. Their characteristic aloofness to outsiders helps make them great guard dogs. With consistent training and established rules and boundaries, this powerful pup can learn with the best of them. As a working breed, they were known for their wild pig and cattle catching abilities, making them indispensable on southern ranches in the US. Grooming Hurray for easy care! Make sure your vet gives your pup a professional cleaning every year, too. Be sure to put nail trimming every couple of weeks and ear cleaning monthly is usually enough on the grooming menu, too. And as for baths, plan on a bath about once a month or so. You may be able to just use your nose. If you detect an unpleasant odor eww! Training When it comes to training, an American Bulldog puppy needs a confident pup parent who uses positive reinforcement to teach various skills, such as how to walk nicely on a leash and come when called. Start training your American Bulldog puppy early to get them used to the ropes. Once you understand what works for them, training becomes easy. Remember: American Bulldogs are smart. These social interactions give your dog a chance to explore a variety of environments and social situations. Feed your puppy large-breed puppy kibble for their first 14 months to support slow but consistent growth. Skip food or supplements with calcium until your pooch is fully grown and eating an adult diet. The added calcium could disrupt healthy bone development. Treats are an essential part of training and a great way to show your pup you love them. However, too many treats can lead to a tubby pup, so check with your vet if you need help figuring out a proper treat-to-mealtime ratio. Exercise Even though they have a moderate energy level, an American Bulldog needs a lot of exercise. And exercise is important to keep your dog out of trouble. If they have unused energy, an American Bulldog will resort to destructive behaviors to release that energy, like chewing on your favorite pair of shoes. This athletic dog benefits greatly from structured walks and play to work the mind and their muscular build. As a puppy parent, strive to offer non-impact movement such as hiding balls in the yard or offering a puzzle toy, as these games lower the risk of joint and bone damage early on. Get out of the house twice a day or more if your young dog is up for it for playtime and walks that last between 20 and 30 minutes. Trainers often suggest skipping the dog park because structured play is more difficult in this setting. Instead, get creative with activities. Think: fetch, tug-of-war with a rope toy or a chewy option filled with something delicious. You may even try lower-impact dog sports like agility or nose work. Both are an excellent way to keep your pup mentally and physically engaged. Remember, a happy dog is a tired dog! Ideal Environment Both city and country homes will suit the American Bulldog as long as you can offer lots of exercise and playtime. Still, families with kids are a good match for this protective and intelligent breed. A structured day with regular walks and chances to play with a variety of toys is the best environment for the American Bulldog. Staving off boredom is paramount, and, of course, no animal likes to be home alone for a long time. When considering the American Bulldog as a pet, bear in mind that training is the key to their success, especially when adding this breed to a home with kids or other dogs. Pup parents need to be aware of some of these issues so they can help their dog live the healthiest life possible. Joint Dysplasia: This joint abnormality is seen in the hips and elbows, and a dog with dysplasia may run, jump and climb less than usual. Most often, the issue is a rupture or partial tear. Cherry Eye: Did you know dogs have a third eyelid? Bone Cancer: Often found in the long bones arms, legs , the cause for this condition is unknown, though vets feel it may have a genetic or environmental component. Deafness: Deafness, which can occur in one or both ears, may be acquired via drug exposure or infection. But deafness could also be hereditary and is linked to dogs with light coats and eyes. Acquired deafness is usually permanent but may improve over time without intervention. A special diet may be the treatment or medications, depending on the cause. Spinal Issues: Degenerative myelopathy DM is often genetic in nature and affects the spinal cord, leading to weakness and hind limb paralysis. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: NCL is an inherited, progressive and rare neurological disorder that starts showing up between 1 and 2 years of age. The most obvious symptom is behavioral changes in the dog, and the pup will usually lose coordination and eyesight. It can be discovered through a DNA test, and at this time, there are no treatments. This proud pup carries an imported pedigree, having been brought over from across the pond as a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was originally bred for bull baiting. Thankfully, this horrific sport was outlawed in England in .Back in the 17th century, early settlers packed these working dogs with them for service on farms and ranches. The American Bulldog became a utility player, stepping in to accomplish many tasks, such as guarding livestock and catching cattle and feral pigs. In fact, were it not for their success as an excellent catch dog in the southern states, we might not know the breed today. John D. Johnson and Alan Scott were able to breed the last few native American Bulldogs in the southern US, resulting in two types the Scott type and the Johnson type that thrive today. These breeds differ in appearance; the Johnson American Bulldog sports a bigger, stronger build, a larger head and short muzzle, and the Scott American Bulldog has more lithe features, such as an athletic, small-boned frame and a longer muzzle. Are you looking to add an American Bulldog as a family member? Check out the AKC puppy finder to find a reputable breeder. You can also seek out local American Bulldog rescues to find a worthy, loving dog to call your own, or keep an eye out for the breed at your local shelter. FAQs Do American bulldogs shed? Yes, American Bulldogs shed, albeit lightly and seasonally. Are American Bulldogs Pitbulls? Are American Bulldogs aggressive? American Bulldogs may be aggressive toward other dogs, particularly unfamiliar ones of the same sex, in part because of their protective and somewhat dominant nature. But with consistent training and early socialization, this breed is considered a loving family dog that does well with kids and other pets. How long do American Bulldogs live? American Bulldogs can have a generous life span, often living between 10 and 12 years. Providing your dog with the proper diet and exercise can help your pup live a full life. What are the most popular American Bulldog names? Get more dog names here. What are the most common American Bulldog mixes? Families of all kinds admire this agile, athletic breed and count themselves lucky to own such a loving, loyal pet. Female Names. Dog domestic dog The American Bulldog is a large, muscular breed of mastiff-type that was used as stock dogs, catch dogs, and guardians on farms and ranches. John D. Johnson and Alan Scott are widely regarded as the forefathers of rescuing the breed from extinction. Small farmer and ranch owners used this all-around working dog for many tasks including farm guardians, stock dogs, and catch dogs. These dogs were not a bona fide breed by modern standards as was the case for most other dogs; kennel clubs and breed registries did not exist until , [6] at least two centuries after the Old English Bulldog first migrated to America. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Old English Bulldog had many different strains for cattle-droving, bull-baiting , farm dogs, and butcher's dogs. In America, no records remain, but rather landrace strains are acknowledged that initially depended on where a dog's master originated in England, the majority of which were bred to work as evidenced by accounts of the age in local newspapers and written inventories upon death. Later, breeding decisions were dependent on the best working farm dogs, despite breed or background. Later, in states such as Texas, several separate strains of the " bulldog "-type dogs were kept by ranchers as utilitarian working dogs. Other dogs in time became guard dogs on plantations. The bulldogs were the settlers' only means of sufficiently dealing with the vermin. Johnson scoured the backroads of the South looking for the best specimens to revive the breed. During this time, a young Alan Scott grew an interest in Johnson's dogs and began to work with him on the revitalization process. At another point, Johnson began crossing his original lines with an atavistic English Bulldog from the North that had maintained its genetic athletic vigor, creating the Bully type American Bulldog, also known as the Johnson type or the Classic type. All over the world, they are used variously as "hog dogs" catching escaped hogs or hunting feral pigs , as cattle drovers, and as working or sport K-9s. American Bulldogs also successfully compete in several dog sports such as dog obedience , Schutzhund , French Ring, Mondioring, Iron Dog competition, and weight pulling. The shoulders and chest tend to be the most muscular parts of the American Bulldog. Its coat is short and generally smooth, requiring little maintenance except a bath every few weeks. The breed is a light to moderate shedder. Colors, while historically predominantly white with patches of red, black, or brindle, have grown in recent years to include many color patterns, including black, red, brown, fawn, and all shades of brindle. Black pigmentation on the nose and eye rims is traditionally preferred, with only some pink allowed. Eye color is usually brown, but heterochromia also occurs, although this is also considered a cosmetic fault. American Bulldogs are known to drool more than other breeds of dogs. The Bully type is generally a larger, heavier dog with a shorter muzzle, but the muzzle should never be so short that it causes difficulty with breathing. Standard types are generally more athletic with longer muzzles and a more square head. Many modern American Bulldogs are a combination of the two types, usually termed "hybrid". In general, American Bulldogs weigh between 27 and 54 kg 60 to lb and are 52 to 70 cm 20 to 28 in at the withers , but have been known to greatly exceed these dimensions, especially in the "out of standard" nonworking stock. Temperament and characteristics[ edit ] This section contains instructions, advice, or how-to content. The purpose of Wikipedia is to present facts, not to train. Please help improve this article either by rewriting the how-to content or by moving it to Wikiversity , Wikibooks or Wikivoyage. August An American Bulldog at guard dog training American Bulldogs are typically confident, social, ebullient, and lively dogs that are at ease with their families. They are not as friendly, however, with people they do not know; their ancestors were farm dogs that guarded the home, the livestock, and the children when their master was away. That said, they do not have the affinity for water a retriever would: they swim if they have to do it, not because they particularly enjoy it. However, they also prize the breed having a soft, affectionate inner nature. Some health problems in American bulldogs are often found within certain genetic lines, and are not common to the entire breed, while others, such as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis NCL , [25] Ichthyosis , disorders of the kidney and thyroid, ACL tears, hip dysplasia , cherry eye , elbow dysplasia , entropion , ectropion , and bone cancer are more common to the general population of American Bulldogs. Some American Bulldogs are prone to allergies. Due to the ideal of beauty regarding the shape of the face the skull malformation brachycephaly was increased by breeding selection. American Bulldogs in popular culture[ edit ] This section needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources in this section. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. February .Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article.

Affected dogs usually present clinical signs of disease in adulthood at least 8 years of age with gradual muscle wasting and loss of coordination that typically begins in the hind limbs because of nerve degeneration. Disease progression continues until the dog is unable to walk. Small breed dogs tend to progress more slowly. In late stages of the disease, dogs may become incontinent and the forelimbs may be affected. Affected dogs may fully lose the ability to walk 6 months to 2 years after the onset of signs. The disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive fashion with incomplete penetrance, and is caused by a mutation c. The variable presentation between breeds suggests that other genetic and environmental factors play a role in disease expression. There is ongoing research to identify other genetic factors that modify risk for DM in different breeds. In addition, similar disease presentation is observed in some animals that do not have the SOD1 mutation. Genetic testing for the SOD1 c. Based on a study by Zeng and colleagues, the SOD1 mutation c. However, breed-specific clinical investigations have not been performed for all breeds that carry the mutation. Type of Sample. Today we are going to talk about the cause, treatment options and how to prevent DM. For starters, DM is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects older dogs. It initially results in paralysis of the hind legs but eventually progresses to affect all limbs. Dogs that have two copies homozygous of the mutant allele are the ones who are at risk to develop DM. Oddly enough, not all dogs that have the mutation will develop DM and the exact reasons why are unclear. Mutations in SOD1 are associated with some forms of human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ALS , which is also an adult onset disease that causes muscle weakness and eventual respiratory paralysis. DM seems to express itself typically around the age of 9 years old. The initial symptoms are a loss of balance and weakness in the hind legs. Another common symptom is the scuffing of nails on the back feet while walking as the brain isn't getting clear signals as to whether or not the foot is set paw pad side down. As the disease progresses, more noticeable paralysis of the hind limbs and urinary and fecal incontinence are common. Eventually all limbs become weak and swallowing difficulties can develop. Within 11 months, most dogs are unable to walk at all. There is no treatment and no cure for DM. Physical therapy is usually recommended but there's no evidence that this aids in longevity of life, nor in quality of life. Dogs with advanced DM will need to be kept on a padded bed and will need to be turned from side to side every four to six hours to prevent bed sores. As the disease progresses they will lose the ability to urinate on their own. Urinary catheterization or manual expression will be necessary three times daily. Wearing gloves and hygiene management are extremely important when using catheters to prevent potentially life threatening urinary tract infections. If a dog begins to have trouble swallowing, it may need to be tube fed. How to prevent DM: You can't. It's a genetic disease that an affected dog was born with. But you can insure that you only buy German Shepherds from reputable breeders who test for DM or have lines that do not have DM in them a lot of working lines have kept dogs with DM out of the gene pool after the discovery of the mutated gene in .DM still isn't fully understood. Some DM At Risk dogs never do. There's speculation of other unknown factors and discrepancies in testing. It can also be reasonably assumed that because some dogs don't show symptoms of DM until 14, that many large breed dogs, like German Shepherds, die of natural causes before the disease can show itself. A note to rescuers and puppy buyers who didn't get a pup from health tested parents: There's no reason to test a dog that you're not going to breed except maybe peace of mind. But there's no reason to panic. It's not a difficult disease to diagnose. And chances are you won't see any negative affects until at least 8 years old. A note to breeders: If you're unsure if DM is in your lines, test your dogs. It's a simple mouth swab. You can also register your dog's DNA at the same time and kill two birds with one stone, so to speak. While you're at it, get hip and elbow x-rays done as well. There's nothing worse than to see a puppy you produced suffer. And their new family will not forget that the lack of testing is partially to blame for genetic diseases their dog suffers. Not testing hurts you, them, and the dog you produced. Breed with a purpose, and produce the healthiest dogs you can. If you enjoyed this article or learned something, please leave a like and share so that more people can educate themselves on a disease that affects so many dogs and so many human lives. This disease can be beaten and we all have to join together to hold breeders and buyers accountable. Thank you. Call us to schedule an appointment at You are here Degenerative Myelopathy DM What is degenerative myelopathy? Degenerative myelopathy DM is a chronic spinal cord condition characterized by progressive deterioration of the spinal cord. What are the symptoms of degenerative myelopathy? Degenerative myelopathy typically occurs in dogs older than 5 to 6 years of age, and manifests as weakness in one or both hind limbs that slowly progresses to paralysis of both hind limbs over several months. In time, dogs will eventually become paralyzed in the front limbs and develop fecal and urinary incontinence. The condition is not painful. How is it diagnosed? Degenerative myelopathy DM can only definitively be diagnosed by identifying classic microscopic changes in the spinal cord on autopsy. DM is strongly suspected in dogs where all other causes for neurologic disease are ruled out. The diagnosis of DM is made with a combination of history, neurologic examination, radiology, and genetic testing. Dogs will have a history of slowly progressive, non-painful weakness and ataxia wobbly gait coupled with muscle atrophy reduction in muscle mass. X-Rays and MRI are typically done to look for other causes of progressive weakness, including cancer and chronic intervertebral disc disease. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis usually shows an increase in protein. It is not uncommon for dogs with degenerative myelopathy to also have chronic disc disease, and deciding whether the gait abnormality is due to compression from chronic disc disease or potential degenerative myelopathy can be difficult in some dogs. Recently, DM has been associated with a genetic mutation in the superoxide dismutase gene, which acts as an anti-oxidant. There is currently a genetic test available through the University of Missouri to identify carriers of this genetic mutation. Dogs that carry the mutation may potentially have the disease; however, it is important to understand that having the mutation does not equal having DM. The mutation is very prevalent in certain breeds i. It is unlikely that dogs that do not have the genetic mutation will have DM. The genetics of DM is very complicated may differ amongst different breeds of dogs. How is degenerative myelopathy treated? Unfortunately, there is no proven effective treatment for degenerative myelopathy. The only treatment that has shown any benefit is regular physical therapy to potentially delay the progression of neurologic signs. Various supplements, stem cell therapy, and diets have been suggested but have never been scientifically proven to be effective. What is the prognosis? Degenerative myelopathy progresses at different rates in each animal, but as there is no effective treatment prognosis is guarded. Many owners opt to purchase hind limb carts to allow their dogs to be mobile when unable to use the hind limbs. Continence is usually retained until the end stages of the disease. When a dog inherits two copies of the mutated SOD1 gene from its parents, cells that send and receive brain signals begin to break down, which results in Degenerative Myelopathy symptoms. These include difficulty walking, with an unsteady gait usually presenting as the initial sign of the disease. Eventually the disease progresses, causing loss of bladder control and an inability to use the front legs. Degenerative Myelopathy occurs when a dog inherits copies of abnormal genes from both parents, although this does not inevitably lead to the dog developing the condition. However, a dog that inherits abnormal genes is very likely to go on to develop the condition over time, and is almost certain to pass on the abnormal genes to any offspring. There is no fixed pattern associated with Degenerative Myelopathy, and the condition is not believed to cause the dog any pain, but the loss of limb function is extremely distressing for both pet and owner. The symptoms do not usually present until the dog is around years old, although some dogs are affected at an earlier age. Which Breeds are Affected by Degenerative Myelopathy? When the disease was first identified, it was believed to exclusively affect German Shepherd dogs. However, it is now understood that any breed can be affected, although some breeds are more prone to the condition than others. It has been known for several years that the Bernese have this additional marker, or risk factor, that is generally restricted to the breed. This is not to say that this marker is the sole cause of Degenerative Myelopathy in that breed, or that the SOD1-A mutation is irrelevant as a risk factor in the breed. Using a simple swab from the inner cheek of your dog, we will ascertain whether or not your dog carries the genetic mutation that is likely to develop into the condition. We will also inform you whether or not your dog is a carrier of the mutation, which allows you to make an informed choice as to whether or not to breed from the dog. The dog will not develop Degenerative Myelopathy and cannot pass faulty genes on to any offspring. This means that the dog has a strong likelihood of passing on the condition to offspring, but not of developing the condition itself. Where a potential mate also carries the gene mutation, any offspring will be at high risk of developing the condition and also of passing it on. An AT RISK result indicates that the dog has inherited two copies of the mutated gene from its parents and is highly likely to develop Degenerative Myelopathy over the course of its lifetime. It will definitely pass on the mutation to any offspring. Please click below for more information:. This mutation is found in many breeds of dog, including the German shepherd dog. While it is not clear for some of the other breeds, German shepherd dogs are known to develop degenerative myelopathy associated with this mutation. The variable presentation between breeds suggests that there are environmental or other genetic factors responsible for modifying disease expression. The average age of onset for dogs with degenerative myelopathy is approximately nine years of age. Affected dogs usually present in adulthood with gradual muscle Atrophy and loss of coordination typically beginning in the hind limbs due to degeneration of the nerves. The condition is not typically painful for the dog, but will progress until the dog is no longer able to walk. The gait of dogs affected with degenerative myelopathy can be difficult to distinguish from the gait of dogs with hip dysplasia, arthritis of other joints of the hind limbs, or intervertebral disc disease. Late in the progression of disease, dogs may lose fecal and urinary continence and the forelimbs may be affected. Affected dogs may fully lose the ability to walk 6 months to 2 years after the onset of symptoms. Affected medium to large breed dogs, such as the German shepherd dog, can be difficult to manage and owners often elect euthanasia when their dog can no longer support weight in the hind limbs. The overall frequency of this disease is unreported for German shepherd dogs. However, in one study of German shepherd dogs tested, .Testing Tips Genetic testing of the SOD1 gene in German shepherd dogs will reliably determine whether a dog is a genetic Carrier of degenerative myelopathy. Degenerative Myelopathy is inherited in an Autosomal Recessive manner in dogs meaning that they must receive two copies of the mutated gene one from each parent to develop the disease. In general, carrier dogs do not have features of the disease but when bred with another carrier of the same Mutation , there is a risk of having affected pups. Reliable genetic testing is important for determining breeding practices. Until the exact modifying environmental or genetic factor is determined, genetic testing remains the only reliable way to detect neurological disease associated with this mutation prior to death. In order to eliminate this mutation from breeding lines and to avoid the potential of producing affected pups, breeding of known carriers to each other is not recommended. German shepherd dogs that are not carriers of the mutation have no increased risk of having affected pups. There may be other causes of this condition in dogs and a normal result does not exclude a different mutation in this gene or any other gene that may result in a similar genetic disease or trait. Genome-wide association analysis reveals a SOD1 mutation in canine degenerative myelopathy that resembles amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Clinical characterization of a familial degenerative myelopathy in Pembroke Welsh Corgi dogs. J Vet Intern Med. Canine degenerative myelopathy. Degenerative myelopathy in two Boxer dogs. Vet Pathol. Vet Rec Case Rep. Degenerative myelopathy associated with a missense mutation in the superoxide dismutase 1 SOD1 gene progresses to peripheral neuropathy in Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Boxers. J Neurol Sci. Dog owners usually elect euthanasia within a year of diagnosis; however, when euthanasia is delayed flaccid paralysis and widespread loss of muscle mass occur. Because common acquired compressive spinal cord diseases can mimic DM, a definitive diagnosis currently can only be accomplished postmortem by histopathologic observation of the spinal cord. A DNA test will soon be available for breeders and pet owners, along with information about what the test can and cannot tell them. The test clearly identifies dogs that are clear have 2 normal copies of the gene , those who are carriers have one normal copy of the gene and one mutated copy of the gene , and those who are at much higher risk for developing DM have 2 mutated copies of the gene. However, having two mutated copies of the gene does not necessarily result in disease. Dogs that have clinical signs or a presumptive diagnosis of DM have tested as genetically affected. A relatively high percentage of dogs in several breeds including Boxers, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers and Rhodesian Ridgebacks have the predisposing mutation. It is important to note that there are a large number of dogs that have tested as genetically affected, but are reported as clinically normal by their owners. It may be that many of these dogs will develop clinical signs as they get older or that the mutation will never manifest in these dogs. In the future, we may identify other risk factors in those dogs that have tested as genetically affected. Wise use of this test can reduce the incidence of dogs at risk for DM in the long-term, particularly if other low frequency risk factors are identified that can more easily be reduced. It is likely to take many generations to reduce the frequency of this disease in breeds with higher frequency of the mutation. By contributing blood samples for testing this mutation, owners will facilitate further study of the disease and the genetic risk factors underlying it. Additional research funded by participating breed clubs and the AKC Canine Health Foundation will help answer questions that remain. Information about the benefits of this test, testing forms and instructions, and suggestions for using the test to reduce the frequency of DM will soon be available online in the DM section of www. Related Grants. Not only we want to know what genes our dogs carry and pass to their offspring , but we want to know how we, as breeders, can make informative decisions to better the breed. DNA based genetic testing looks at the two genes or alleles associated with a specific disease or condition. An individual gets one gene from the dam and one gene from the sire to create a pair. Other dogs who are tested "At Risk" may never develop DM and live a very healthy life. Some older dogs with one copy of the gene "Carriers" can develop the disease. The current hypothesis is that there must be something else in addition to SOD-1 mutation that genetically predicts and determines DM in dogs, and there is an ongoing research to find that genetic mutation. We have seen some programs only breeding DM-clear dogs and staying away from DM affected or carriers. While this seems like a great decision, other characteristics of a dog are more important - such as hips and elbows, temperament and working qualities. It is very important to make sure that the partner to be used in breeding is clear, though! Here we provide a table that explains how to do that: What is so scary about DM? Nancy has more than 30 years of experience in the veterinary industry and is a board-certified veterinary specialist in internal medicine. The inevitable result for dogs with DM is paraplegia—hind end paralysis. Dogs at risk of degenerative myelopathy DM affects primarily older dogs, with symptoms typically beginning at eight years of age or older. Back in the day when I was just a pup we referred to this disease as German Shepherd Myelopathy because we thought it was unique to this breed. We now know that DM occurs in many purebred and mixed breed dogs. Symptoms of degenerative myelopathy DM symptoms progress slowly over the course of months to even years. From beginning to end, DM affected dogs typically remain alert and animated. The symptoms typically progress as follows: Initial Loss of coordination ataxia in the hind legs Dragging the hind feet causing wearing down of the toenails. Weakness in front legs. Although this degenerative process is not painful, affected dogs can develop discomfort because of overuse of other body parts attempting to compensate for the hind end weakness. Cause of degenerative myelopathy DM causes degenerative changes within spinal cord axons, structures that transmit information back and forth between the brain and the rest of the body. These degenerative changes begin in the thoracolumbar region of the spinal cord, the portion that lines up with the end of the rib cage. This explains why the hind limbs are more severely affected. Given enough time, the disease progresses toward the head end of the body, causing loss of front leg function as well. DM is an inherited disease. The researchers discovered that DM has a recessive mode of inheritance. In order for a dog to be affected, the mutation must be inherited from both dam and sire. All that is required is a blood sample or cheek swab. This DNA test identifies dogs that are normal have two normal copies of the gene , those who are carriers have one normal copy of the gene and one mutated copy , and those who are at risk for development of DM have two mutated copies of the gene. This is because not all dogs with two mutated copies of the gene go on to develop DM. Responsible breeders utilize DNA testing for DM to help assess whether or not a particular dog is suitable for breeding purposes. If contemplating purchasing a pup of an at-risk breed, it is important to request DM test results for the dam and sire of the litter of interest. What this means is that a presumptive diagnosis of DM can only be made by ruling out other causes of spinal cord disease e. The only way to definitively diagnose DM is via a spinal cord biopsy collected through an autopsy post-mortem examination. Treatment of degenerative myelopathy Currently there is no known treatment capable of significantly altering the course of DM. When searching the Internet, one might find a number of approaches that have been tried or are recommended. Unfortunately, there is no scientific evidence that supports their efficacy. Prognosis of degenerative myelopathy Unfortunately, the prognosis for dogs with DM is poor. The quality of life for affected dogs can be enhanced through diligent nursing care, prevention of pressure sores, rehabilitation therapies such as swimming and stretching exercises, massage, acupuncture, monitoring for urinary tract infections immobilized dogs are more prone , and the use of specialized equipment such as booties, slings, harnesses, and wheelchairs to assist with mobility. DM becomes so debilitating that most people eventually opt for euthanasia. Exactly when to euthanize is a highly individualized decision based on how adaptive, both physically and psychologically, the involved dog and human s are. Others are highly resistant to such an apparatus. For the human caretaker, in addition to the emotional toll that DM takes, there is a great deal of lifting, carrying, and cleaning involved. Everyone responds differently to this challenging situation. Letting go of a beloved four-legged family member is never easy, but it can be particularly heartbreaking when DM is the cause. Affected dogs typically have good appetites, are pain-free, and their minds remain just as sharp as ever. Letting go of a dog who acts or feels sick is usually a bit easier, simply because the process seems to make more sense. Having a canine model for studying ALS has important ramifications. Not only might more be learned about the degenerative process that afflicts people with ALS, the canine model may ultimately prove to be valuable in terms of learning more about therapeutic interventions. Questions for your veterinarian: Have other causes of spinal cord disease been ruled out? Where could I access rehabilitation therapy for my dog? Where would I find a veterinarian who specializes in neurology? What symptoms should I be watching for? If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets. Resources: 1. ALS Association, n. This disease is normally seen around middle age, and in general diagnosis can only be confirmed at post mortem examination. Breed surveys of some predisposed breeds indicate a fairly low occurrence rate, but most experts think this rate is actually much higher, due to the lack of post mortem follow up of the majority of suspected cases. Signs are due to the immune-mediated destruction of a part of the nerves in the spinal cord, leading to loss of these nerve fibres. The first sign is knuckling of the hind feet, and hind limb ataxia. Once the spinal cord damage progresses past this initial stage termed proprioceptive deficits , the effectiveness if any of treatment is much diminished. Hence early diagnosis is vital. Following this initial stage, hind limb reflexes are affected, then weakness in the hind limbs develops, progressing to total paralysis. Once a dog shows these signs it will almost always respond poorly to therapy. Eventually destruction progresses from the middle of the spinal cord to the upper cord and brain stem, leading to forelimb weakness and eventually interference with the muscles of breathing, causing death. Most dogs are euthanased for humane reasons before this happens. Treatment is with specific supplements and drugs aimed at interfering with the immune destruction in the spinal cord, to slow further nerve damage. The effectiveness of this treatment is variable, but is only of benefit if started as early as possible. Once nerves are lost, they will not be replaced. Degenerative myelopathy cannot be cured. A DNA test is available for predisposed pure breeds to carry out screening of breeding animals. Glu40Lys Severity: Moderate. All breeding animals should have a DNA test prior to entering into a breeding program - eg at 1 year of age. Neurologic examination of all animals at annual veterinary check-up from middle age years onwards. Offer DNA testing to all owners of puppies if his parents have not been screened. Research Citation s : Awano T, et al. Genome-wide association analysis reveals a SOD1 mutation in canine degenerative myelopathy that resembles amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Proc Natl Acad Sci; 8 ;

They could take on traits from just one parent or any combination of traits from both of them. An Akita tends to be loyal, devoted, and dedicated to their families. They do tend to get along well with children, but they tend to be wary of strangers and they have a high prey drive. Although they tend to be quiet dogs, they will bark to alert you. This makes them good watchdogs. On top of that, Akitas have an instinct to guard and protect. This makes socialization and training early and often particularly important for this breed. You may be able to expect a similar temperament in your Akita Mix. However, the other dog breed in the mix could affect their temperament. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed can help prepare you for all of the possibilities. Meeting the mother dog can also give you an idea of what temperament to expect in your Akita Mix puppy. Akitas are moderately adaptable dogs that can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need to be happy and healthy. Due to their protective instincts and high prey drive, they should only be let off-leash in securely fenced areas. A mixed-breed dog can inherit any combination of the potential health concerns common to one or both of the parent breeds. From the Akita side, the potential health concerns to be aware of in an Akita Mix include hip dysplasia, thyroid issues, skin conditions, progressive retinal atrophy, and acquired myasthenia gravis. Reputable breeders will screen their breeding stock to avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross. Also, talk to them about the genetic and health history of both of the parent breeds. Although Akitas love their family and prefer to be near them, they also have an independent nature. They are highly intelligent and pick up training quickly, but they can also have a stubborn streak. This can be difficult for a first-time dog owner to navigate on their own. The other parent breed could balance this out, but you still need to be prepared for a potentially hard-headed pooch. As such, puppy training classes are recommended. Regardless of owner experience, puppy training classes can still be a good idea as these classes often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. Akitas have a dense double coat that will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and moving to daily brushing during seasonal shedding can help your dog be more comfortable and contain a lot of the loose fur to your brush. Bathing is on an as-needed basis. Monthly nail trimming is usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Many dog owners overlook this, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs. Practicing good dental care for dogs can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. Akitas tend to have a moderate activity level. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually sufficient for these dogs. The other parent breed could affect the exercise needs for an Akita Mix. By talking to the breeder about the other parent breed, you can get a good idea of what sort of energy range to prepare for in your puppy. A fully-grown Akita usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other dog breed in the mix can seriously affect the size you could see in a fully-grown Akita Mix. So, make sure you talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. Akitas generally live for years. The other parent breed in the cross could have an effect on this for an Akita Mix. Talking to the breeder about it can help clarify to what extent it could be affected if at all. Featured Akita Mix Article. Leash Manners - She is still learning. Socialization - Duchess needs continued socialization throughout her life with people of all ages, genders and races as well as other animals including dogs and cats if she is to grow up to be a well socialized adult dog. Energy Level and Exercise - Duchess is very high energy and will need a lot of exercise and discipline. Daily Structure and Schedule - She will require structure with someone experienced with the breed. Temperament - Duchess is an alpha dog and needs someone who understands her needs. Obedience Training - She is very intelligent but also high energy so will require a lot of patience and guidance with obedience training. Behaviors - Duchess is a puppy so she still behaves just like one -- mouthing, chewing, jumping, etc. Known for their tremendous loyalty and courage, they are calmly confident, but not hostile. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. They only bark when it is necessary. Serious and almost human in his intelligence, they have a high learning ability. The breed is so intelligent and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service, and in the military. The German Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, flyball, and ring sport. His fine nose can sniff out drugs and intruders, and can alert handlers to the presence of underground mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipes buried 15 feet underground. A quick daily brushing is best unless hair in the house is not a problem. They should be bathed rarely, only once or twice a year to avoid skin oil depletion. Shepherds have a life expectancy around 13 years. Life Span Did You Know? The Akita is a striking working breed that originated in the Akita province of Japan during the s. These dogs were bred to protect their territory and families from the Yezo bear that overran the small island. In addition to watchful guardians and protectors, Akitas also worked as hunting dogs. Later given to the Emperor, the breed became a symbol of good luck, specifically happiness, good health, and a long life, throughout Japanese culture. Not only did this strong and dedicated breed protect Japanese royalty, but they were also used to hunt large game, such as deer, wild boar, and bear. Helen Keller was gifted an Akita while visiting Japan in and is credited with bringing the first Akita to the United States. One of these was Taro, a male that was the first Akita to be registered in the U. One of the facts about Akitas is that it is still considered a symbol of good luck in Japan to own an Akita. These dogs make popular companion dogs and are known for being alert, loyal, and fearless, which makes them excellent watchdogs. The Akita is an extremely loyal dog that is affectionate with their families and protective of them. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with children and can get along well with other animals that are part of the family. Akitas are one of the dog breeds that are good guard dogs. They are generally quiet dogs and use barking to alert you. They are good watchdogs because of this and their protective nature. Due to their protective nature, they are naturally suspicious of strange people and animals. Their high prey drive can be a challenge with smaller prey-type animals. An Akita may do well with smaller animals they were raised with, socialized with, and that they recognize as part of their family Even well-socialized, an Akita may remain wary of strangers and may be aloof with them even after being introduced. It can take a while for an Akita to warm up to someone new, but once they recognize you as someone familiar and safe, they will open up and let you see their playful, affectionate side. Poor socialization is one of the common causes of aggression in dogs. This intelligent breed should be socialized early and often with people, especially children, other dogs, and pets. If you decide to bring an Akita into your family, you will need to start socialization as early as possible and continue to socialize your puppy into adulthood. This will help them have a more favorable temperament when encountering unusual situations. Akitas are moderately adaptable dogs. They do best in homes with fenced yards where they run. Although they can adapt to apartment living if enough time is dedicated daily to exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, they are generally not best suited for it. Their protective nature can make them territorial. This, paired with their high prey drive, means they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. As a fluffy, double-coated dog breed, the Akita thrives in cold weather and is one of the dog breeds that love winter. As with other dogs, they are sensitive to heat. They also get bored easily and do not like to spend a lot of time alone. Although they are one of the most independent dog breeds and can be aloof at times, they thrive on human companionship and like spending time around their families. They may be okay with some alone time, but mostly, they prefer to have their favorite humans within their sight so they can observe quietly and protect them. Potential health concerns to be aware of in Akitas can include hip dysplasia, acquired myasthenia gravis, thyroid issues, progressive retinal atrophy, and some immune systems disorders that can affect the skin and hair. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Akita puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure that they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. The national breed club recommends a hip evaluation, an ophthalmologist evaluation, and a thyroid evaluation at a minimum. Akitas are also one of the breeds that are at a higher risk for bloat in dogs. Bloat can be dangerous and can quickly become fatal if the stomach flips. Akitas are highly intelligent and loyal dogs. Although they pick up on things quickly, they are also independent and can be quite stubborn. As such, they are generally not recommended for first-time dog owners. Novice owners can successfully socialize and train an Akita, but puppy training classes or enlisting a professional dog trainer are recommended. The Akita has a soft and dense undercoat and an outer coat that is straight and coarse. Although they tend to shed a little, they will blow their undercoat and shed a lot when the seasons change. Weekly brushing and daily brushing during seasonal shedding are usually enough to keep their coat looking great. Daily brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal dental care for dogs. Although the Akita is not a high-energy dog, they do still require a moderate amount of exercise each day to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime or time to run are usually enough. Because they get bored easily and are sturdy dogs, they may be up for more activity if you are. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until puppies finish growing and the vet clears them for high-impact activities to prevent damage to developing bones and joints. Fully-grown Akitas usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. On average, females stand inches tall and weigh pounds while males stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Akitas generally live for years on average. In Japan, a statue of an Akita is associated with health, happiness, and a long life. It is common to give a small statue of the dog breed to a family who has just had a child. When it comes to famous dogs , Hachiko, or Hachi, is the most famous Akita. He waited for his owner to come from work at the train station every day. One day, his owner passed away unexpectedly and never came off the train. Hachiko spent 9 years at the train station waiting for his owner to come home. His story has been told in many books, documentaries, movies, and more. Featured Akita Article.

We are a family owned business with the personal touch not offered at most kennels. We started several years ago buying our first female to start our business. German Lines vs American Lines Before entering into the business we spent years researching the different bloodlines of German Shepherds. Working with different police departments assisted us in our search for the quality of German Shepherds we wanted to breed. Throughout the years of owning and working with German Shepherds we have been around both the German bloodlines and the American bloodlines. In our experience the American lines do not have the same qualifications offered by the German lines. To read about the difference of both breeds go to German lines vs American lines. For more information about German titles and testing in our pedigrees go to German Terminology and German Breed Standards. Working in law enforcement allows us to work with several police agencies during K-9 operations. Because of our line of work we have seen first hand the difference between the working lines and the show lines. It is very important for someone to understand the difference, because there is a vast difference. The working lines are exceptional at what they are bred to do. They have extremely high energy which makes them better for law enforcement when searching hours for a suspect or sniffing large areas for drugs. A working dog has to have something to do at all times or they will get bored. That kind of energy does not work well for a family and in a home atmosphere. West German Show Line Dogs What I searched for is a line of German Shepherds that would be naturally protective, not afraid of any situation, proven to be the best generation after generation and still have the calmness to be good with children. We found that dog in the West German Show Lines. To receive a top show rating of either a V or VA the German Shepherd is required to be excellent in all fields. They cannot be distracted or show any aggression towards the judge, stud dogs or female dogs around them, but be ready to bite when asked too. For any dog to accomplish all these things is remarkable. To read and understand more about what is required for each phase of testing go to German titles and ratings. They relax all day on the couch, happy and healthy. When they are ready to birth the puppies we take the whelping box into our den where we whelp the puppies. If it is winter we have a nice cozy fire. Either my husband or I are with them throughout the entire delivery. We assist the mother as needed. We make sure the puppies are getting plenty of milk. Then we will move them to the puppy room in our house. I get up throughout the night to check on the mother and the puppies to make sure everyone is doing okay. The mother and the puppies will stay in the house until they are weaned at six weeks old. Then I either move the mother or the puppies to the kennel. Our puppies are allowed to run around our house when they are old enough to walk. We are always giving the puppies a lot of attention. I believe in imprinting the puppies from the time they are born. We also allow our customers to come visit during the first 8 weeks to build a bond with the puppies and to help with socialization of the puppies. If we have more than one litter in the house we have our office set up to be able to put another whelping box in it. We will whelp every litter the same. We try to only have two litters at a time. If we have three, which is very seldom, I can fix a place in my bathroom. Usually the third litter is in my bathroom for only a week. Then I move them to one of the other two rooms. I teach all my dogs in the house to respect the mother's privacy. A lot of times I have a mother and a grandmother in the house at the same time. Bailey and Tara were mother and daughter. After a few days passed, Bailey got a little agitated with Tara and grunted at her. Our home is usually full of either children or dogs most the time both. In we bought property in Oklahoma surrounded by the National Forest 35 miles from Arkansas. Our Dogs and Puppies have plenty room to run and explore. They also go with us in the spring time trail riding behind our Oklahoma property, since there are miles of forest managed trails right out our back door. Between our property in Texas and Oklahoma the dogs have plenty of room to run, play and get plenty of excecise. The dogs love both places, but Oklahoma is our vacation spot for both us and the dogs. Our dogs are a big part of our lives, as you can see. Our dogs are not just breeding dogs to us they are part of our family. Our breeding dogs are bred to to some of the most famous well produced studs in the World. The dogs in our pedigrees are easily found with vast information on the internet with many videos and pictures of bitework and ring work in top National shows. We strive to breed only the highest quality german shepherds in America and we work hard to keep the integrity of the breed. Our puppies for sale come with a written guarantee , microchip, AKC papers, pedigree, worming and shot records. We offer climate control shipping of all our puppies and dogs throughout the United States. The heart of our business is the strong relationships we build with our customers everyday and the solid foundation we earned throughout the years in Europe from people we can trust and who trust us with top German imports. Every year we hand select dogs to add to our breeding program to improve the breed. We travel to Germany to see the dogs in person and deliver our dogs for training. After training, we breed our female to the top VA stud in Germany and bring them home to America. The pedigrees of our upcoming breeding females and breeding males are out of some of the most current Sieger Champions. Why Top German lines make such a difference? The West German lines from Germany are tested for years to insure they are qualified for breeding. Germany will not breed two dogs together just because they are purebred. It takes much more then that to get a German shepherd papered in Germany. This gives them an advantage over the standard American German Shepherd dog you see today. The West German bloodlines are bred for great attitudes and superb temperament making them extraordinary in show, search and rescue, service dogs, protection and most all the ultimate family dog. Most people do not understand the big difference in German shepherds and why it so important to know exactly what you are looking for when choosing your next family member. First, you need to understand the difference between working, show, German, American and most of all the problem with most German shepherds in America from back yard breeders go to our German vs America page.Why we earned 5 ratings by our customers? At Von der Otto we spend many hours with our customers learning their needs, encouraging them to visit their puppy each week and answering any questions. We make a point to keep in touch with the families throughout the puppy's life. Communication, honesty and the relationship we build with our customers are very important to us. We have been blessed with some of the best customers in the world. Many customers appreciate the special touch we can give as a small kennel owner. We are able to give our customers, the puppies and our dogs the time and attention that most large kennel s just cannot do. This alone makes a huge difference on socialization of a puppy. At Von Der Otto we realize our success depends on the relationship between us and our customers. Our goal and continued commitment to you! At Von der Otto we want to make your experience with your dog as happy as ours. Continue building relationships with our customers and customers with each other. Strive to have happy, healthy and beautiful German shepherd dogs with outstanding temperaments for everyone. Stay in touch with new customers and old customers for years to come. Answering questions for any problem that may arise. Our 1 goal is to take special care of our customer and our dogs. Read More.Recommended products we use for our German Shepherd Dogs The product we highly recommend for all dogs is NuVet , this is a vitamin that is like a treat for your dog. The dog's coat, within a month giving one tablet a day, you will see less shedding, extremely soft and shinny coat. Comments from a couple of people who tried NuVet and loved it. Comment by Mary Clark, "Tia, just wanted to say thank you for bringing me the NuVet and conditioner a few weeks ago. OMG I cant say enough good things about it. Ruby's coat is shiny, thick and she doesn't smell anymore. She also literally doesn't shed. 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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. You probably already know that learning how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy can be a stressful time. But… once you know these easy steps, great things happen! Knowing how to potty train your German Shepherd is vital to having a happy, comfortable life with them. Use this training consistently to have the most effect. A proactive approach works best. Which means you should… focus on preventing accidents, instead of waiting on them to happen! Follow a strict feeding and bathroom schedule to see the best results. Basically, you teach your German Shepherd puppy the right potty skills… until it becomes a habit humanesociety. The key to quick success is taking your pup out every 2 to 3 hours and never giving the opportunity for them to have an accident inside. This means at least 8 to 10 trips outside every single day! In their welcoming and safe crate either resting, eating their meals, or enjoying a play toy. In an exercise pen or playpen with a strict potty area. Under your direct, undivided attention. This means you are always watching your pup. All it takes is for you to check your phone for a few seconds for your pup to have a toileting accident! You can either use a crate to speed up their potty training or provide them an area indoors to eliminate. I prefer the crate method. Housebreaking with the use of a crate speeds up your success rate incredibly! But you want to use the crate positively so they learn to love their little den. Make their crate an enjoyable and inviting place to go. How to show your pup how to love their crate: Never force your pup into their crate! Take your time with crate introduction and allow them to explore under their own will. Serve your pup at least one meal a day inside their crate. Use a Kong with their meal stuffed inside and mixed with a small spoonful of unsweetened Greek yogurt or peanut butter to entice them to stay and work on the Kong inside the crate. Offer treats when they willingly go inside to rest or explore their crate. Use a verbal cue when you want your pup to go into the crate. You can learn all the benefits of teaching your dog to use their crate in this easy post on crate training your German Shepherd successfully. Check it out to get the complete facts, tips, and step-by-step instructions to perfect crate training today. Use Puppy Pads You can use puppy pads if you need to… or skip to step 4 to learn potty training without pads. Not going to use puppy pads? You can skip to step 4. But… if you prefer to use puppy pads, then you need an area where you always take your dog when they need to go to the bathroom. Preferably place their pads near the door that you eventually want them to use to go outside. Place more pads down than you think you need at first. This is because puppies have poor aim and also may find a spot they prefer other than the one you pick. After a couple of weeks, you may remove the extra pads until there are only two puppy pads on the floor in the primary area they prefer to go. Keep the food and water area away from the puppy pads in another place. Using Puppy Pads Successfully Change your puppy pads as they become soiled. But a lightly soiled pad is attractive to your pup in the beginning stages of training and helps them learn the right area to potty indoors at first. Once they are reliably using the correct spot, you need not continue to use this trick and can throw away the pads as they become too soiled. Training Them to Go Outside After Using Pads Indoors If you set up your pads near the door you use to take them outside to their elimination area, then you can transition them to go outside more easily. So, place or move your puppy pads closer to the door from their original spot to begin the transition to the outdoors. When your pads are close to the door, watch them for their elimination signs and get them to the outside as swiftly as you can. While I generally use a crate to house train my German Shepherd puppy I also totally understand that you might prefer to learn how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy using a puppy pad for any number of reasons. Teach Them a Potty Routine Every day, follow the same routine and schedule to keep your puppy from having accidents inside your house. Teaching your dog to eliminate outside means that you must have a strict schedule. Watch for signs that your pup needs to go potty so you can avoid indoor accidents. Morning Potty Routine First thing in the morning when you let your pup out of their crate or from their sleeping area take them to their potty spot. If in doubt, carry them outside yourself. If you will not leash your pup when you take them out in the morning, then run ahead of them to lead them outside quickly. If you have stairs, carry your pup since rushing downstairs on a full bladder is never a good idea. Outside Potty Routine Stay with your pup until they do their business. You can place your pup in a small confined area to go potty or keep them leashed to you. Stand quietly until they potty. Then, praise them and offer a tasty treat. This can bore you at first, but potty training a German Shepherd puppy becomes easier every day. After 10 to 15 minutes, take them out of their crate and repeat the above process. Learning how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy takes repetition and patience. How do you know when to take your GSD puppy outside to potty? Take them out after a nap. They need to relieve themselves after sleeping or napping in their crates. Take them out after a play session. Take them out after they drink a large amount of water. Take them out first thing in the morning and the last thing before you place them in their crate or go to bed. Take your dog out when their body language says they are searching for a potty spot! You should take out your German Shepherd puppy every 2 hours for an 8-week-old pup. Add an hour for each month your pup is old. So, a week-old dog needs to go out every 3 hours. And a week-old German Shepherd needs to go outside to relieve herself every 4 hours. Puppy Age How often do you take them outside to potty? Most dogs do not have full bladder control until they are six months old. This means that even if your puppy does learn to hold it, accidents may still happen if it is left inside too long. Not potty training early can extend the process and make things harder. As the puppy grows, the mess and smells will increase. It is also harder to break an existing habit than prevent one from starting in the first place. How long on average does it take to potty train a puppy? If everything goes according to plan, your German Shepherd can be potty trained within five days. However, that does not mean your pup will be able to be locked indoors for eight hours while you go to work and not make a mess. Therefore, a two-month-old puppy needs to go out every two hours. A three-month-old can hold for three, and so on. German Shepherds also often have a high play drive and might completely forget that they need to potty when they want to play instead. There are few things more frustrating than playing outside with your puppy for an hour, only to have them calm down enough to relieve themselves the moment they come indoors. Have a complimentary diet An upset stomach is one of the most common setbacks in housetraining. In particular, puppies are vulnerable to garbage gut because they tend to eat anything smelly or exciting. This is another reason to make use of a crate. Excellent digestive health is not only good for your puppy, but it makes it much easier to stick to your routine. Use a specific door By now, you might be noticing a theme of consistency and routine emerging. Taking your puppy out through the same door helps condition and imprint the housetraining process on your dog and will also serve you later when your dog learns to always ask to go outside at the same door. Leash and lead The leash or lead is a further way of conditioning your puppy. The lead ensures that you can keep them close and make sure they always go to the specific spotty to potty. Do some research on the best collar for German Shephards , as there are some breed specific requirements. Then give a treat or some playtime to reward the correct behavior. Guide your dog back inside A potty run needs to be conditioned as a potty run. While praise, playtime, and treats should be used to make it a positive experience, your pup must learn to stay focused on the task at hand. Creating a negative experience for your dog is more likely to cause sneaky behavior such as peeing and pooping secretly out of fear that you will reprimand them if caught. Make sure you check on your puppy at least twice throughout the night Set an alarm clock and check if your puppy is awake and restless at least twice a night. This is your cue to take the pup outside. If the crate is near your bed and you are a light sleeper, you will likely wake when you hear rustling or whimpering. Stick to a routine A rigid routine is the quickest and smoothest route to a house-trained puppy. Be sure to take the puppy outside as soon as it wakes up in the morning, as well as after a nap, after playtime, and after meals. Until they are at least twelve weeks old, they should be taken out a minimum every two hours during the day. Positive Reinforcement As with all dog training, positive reinforcement works best. Make sure to praise and reward within three seconds of your puppy going potty to make a positive association. While your German Shepherd is learning that the entire house is out of bounds for elimination, the crate is a useful tool to avoid accidents. Once this has been achieved, you can gradually allow your puppy more free rein indoors. Pee Pads are not helpful. Final Thoughts You should be pretty patient and persistent in potty training your German Shepherd puppy. The process should not be stressful for your pet. Potty training of a German Shepherd puppy may turn out even simpler and more straightforward than you expect it to be. How to properly organize the process of potty training so that the pet understands as quickly as possible what the owner wants from it? This article may give you some helpful tips. The Main Factors to Consider for Potty Training a German Shepherd Puppy Needs The essential thing your puppy has to understand is that relieving itself inside the house is inappropriate. These are the factors you need to consider making the entire process go smoothly: Nature Newborn puppies pee and poop in their den. These are the first steps that teach a puppy to maintain order in their living quarters. That is why, when you take your pup at the age of 6- 8 weeks , it has nowhere to learn about cleanliness and that it has to do its business outside the den. You have to substitute its natural lessons and become a mother-dog for your puppy. Conditions German Shepherds remember well what they are taught to do and under what conditions they should do that. It means that, as soon as they have learned a habit, they will never forget it under certain circumstances. For instance, if your puppy knows that it should relieve itself on the lawn, you will never see it pooping on the paved driveway. Gastrointestinal Tract Your puppy will need a toilet just minutes after you feed it. That is why, think about feeding your baby dog at the same time and always follow the established routine. Bladder Starting from the age of 20 days, a German Shepherd can control its bodily functions. When it is 8- 16 weeks old , it can restrain from peeing for about 2 hours. So, take it outside for the toilet each hour to be on the safe side. When it is about a year and 4 months old, you can expect it to hold its pee for about 4 hours. Then, this time will increase. Attitudes Your attitude to the puppy matters a lot. German Shepherds understand commands, of course, but they can also get a lot of information from our body language or pitch of voice. When you distract a little one or rush it, it will get too nervous to do its business properly. Verbal encouragement and calmness are very important here. For example, it needs to be relieved after sleep , after feeding, and when it wakes from a daytime nap. It can also want a toilet after playing. The routine will help your baby dog to learn the rules very quickly. Rewarding Every time your puppy goes to the toilet correctly, you have to praise and reward it with some treats. Express your affection, too. A combination of praise and treats will have the best effect. It may even start finding sneaky places to do its business, despite your reaction to it. However, you should do it every time you catch your puppy in the act. Then, you can hold it in your arms and bring to the place that you want to be its potty. Paper of Pee Pads Remember that paper or pee pads are useless or even harmful. Your puppy may get confused, so more accidents may happen. Start with teaching your little pet to go to the toilet outside, and you will never miss the aim. It will not be able to wait until the morning. An accident may happen at night, so try to take your baby dog outside more frequently. Reduced Availability of New Places Inside The more places your puppy has access to inside your house, the more opportunities it will find to go to the toilet there. Reduce access and start more extensive German Shepherd potty training outside at once. Potty runs are not pretty comfortable at this time of the year. What can you do if the temperature is below zero, and it is bitterly cold outside? Your dog may avoid staying longer for doing its business when it is freezing, or just decline your invitation to go outside for a toilet. It may prefer to hold its pee. However, it can lead to bacteria growth and a UTI as a result. In the cold season, dogs as much as humans do not like to drink big amounts of water. However, they need it to prevent a UTI. So, you have to encourage the dog to drink by warming the water and adding some broth, or organic honey to it. Give your dog food rich in moisture. It is canned, raw, or home-cooked food. You may even soak its kibble in the broth. First of all, protect its paws when it stands on the freezing ground. You can use wood shavings or straws, or even pieces of old clothing or turf. They will help your pet step onto the icy cold ground. You will also protect its paws against anti-ice chemicals that are widely used in urban areas in winter. Put on warm clothes when you walk your dog. When you feel cold and uncomfortable, you will not willingly wait until your puppy does its business. You will be eager to rush home, so there is a chance that your puppy will not relieve itself or do it halfway. Offer your doggy a reward for running out in the cold. Show it that you are happy and delighted with its behavior. Some delicious treats will be a perfect sign of it. Avoid Mistakes in Potty Training In any case, you need to know how to avoid the common mistakes in potty training your German Shepherd puppy. Prohibited Methods The prohibited methods for weaning a German Shepherd dog to use places that are not intended for this as a toilet include these things you should never do with your puppy in any case. Never poke its nose into what it has done. It is no use because nothing is disgusting for an animal in its waste products. The dog perceives them solely as a source of information. Physical punishment, for example, beating with a leash, should be completely prohibited. Such actions cannot lead to anything other than anger. Therefore, no canine expert would ever recommend them to you. For example, the dog pooped in the room while its owner was at work. If you punish your pup upon your return in the evening when it has completely forgotten about its misconduct, the dog will not understand what has happened. The unrighteous methods of punishment will evoke aggression and psycho problems in your little doggy, but will not improve the situation. If your baby dog knows that it should not relieve itself inside at once, it will never develop into a bad habit difficult to get rid of. Here are a few simple tips on how to potty train German Shepherd puppies more effectively. Take your puppy out for a potty run via one specific door in the house. When your puppy chooses the same designated point for doing its business, give it a treat. Invite your doggy outside and inside by using a leash. Your puppy needs to learn the rules for your happy relationships and comfort. Moreover, it is learning to trust you as its owner and friend. So you have to build up this trust with consistent and natural tips and commands. Shepherd dogs learn fast, but you have to take good care of them , reward them, and be patient. Be accurate about mistakes that can spoil your training process. Remember that severe punishment is inappropriate. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Plenty of wipes and toilet tissue 1. Build a potty-training routine When you first start house training your German Shepherd puppy, you should aim to build a routine around their toileting needs. Luckily, their bladders and bowels are fairly predictable, as they are determined by not only their sleeping pattern, but also what they eat and drink. You should always take your puppy out to the toilet first thing as soon as they wake up — and this goes for whenever they wake up from naps too! As well as taking them out first thing in the morning, you should also take them out last thing at night or before you are going to leave them alone for an extended period of time: this is to prevent any accidents overnight or whilst you are gone! On top of this, you should also aim to take your puppy out to the toilet every thirty minutes to an hour. We actually started up a diary of what our puppy had eaten and and how often and what times he tended to urinate and defecate. Take your German Shepherd outside as soon as you see any signs that they need a pee or poop. All puppies have immature diet systems, which means that each meal tends to stimulate their digestive system faster than it would in adult dogs. Generally, puppies need to urinate within fifteen minutes of eating and then do a poop within half an hour of eating. Once your dog has finished eating, take away the food bowl until the next scheduled mealtime. This will prevent your puppy from overindulging. You should also ensure that the food you give your puppy is of the higher possible quality — this means avoiding dog food with artificial colours and preservatives and ensuring that real meat is the primary ingredient. Confinement and consistency When your German Shepherd puppy is in the early stages of potty training, it is good to confine to a small area such as a room, a crate or via a lead until you are confident that they can roam the house freely without accidents. Furthermore, consistency goes hand-in-hand with confinement, and it involves introducing your dogs to select areas to toilet in so that, over time, they will learn to associate going to the toilet with that area of the house or outside. A good way to ease your dog into this component of toilet training is via puppy pad training or crate training. Essentially, the purpose of the puppy pad is not only to reduce mess, but also to get your puppy used to the idea of doing their business in an approved, select area indoors an area that is easy to clean up! Overtime, your puppy will learn to associate the pad itself with areas where it is okay to toilet, and at this stage it is good to move the mad outside to help them adapt. You can buy puppy pads on Amazon. Here are the ones we used which also have very good Amazon reviews. Crate training Crates are an effective and approved way of toilet training your German Shepherd puppy at the beginning. It helps to avoid mess, helps you keep a closer eye for signs he needs to go and, most crucially, teaches the pup to hold it until they are let outside to go toilet. Make sure the crate is large enough for the puppy to stand, turn around and lie down but not large enough for them to defecate and urinate in. You can find a suitably-sized crate on Amazon which work well with the German Shepherd breed. Learn to pick up on the signs To avoid accidents in the home, it is good to learn to recognise signs that your German Shepherd needs the toilet. Commons signs include: Sniffing the floor. Looking restless and anxious. Going into an area they have previously toileted in. If your puppy shows any of these signs, take them out to your chosen toileting spot immediately. However, if accidents do happen, it is best to stay calm and not get angry at your puppy, as this will just make them fearful and cause them stress, which will actually result in more random accidents. Use a phrase they will learn to understand One of the most important aspects that goes a long with in potty training your German Shepherd puppy to use a phrase they learn to identify with. By doing so, he would learn to identify the phrase and location with the action. Reward the puppy for a good job When your German Shepherd puppy has finished his pee or poop in the right place , you should give them a reward or positive reinforcement with praise. By rewarding good behavior you will start a pattern of success which can lead to far faster house breaking and training. Never scold them Accidents are going to happen a lot, and whilst this can be frustrating, never shout at or scold the puppy. I remember countless times where I would have just cleaned a pee up from the kitchen floor, only for our puppy to crouch and pee again just seconds later. When should I start potty training my German Shepherd puppy? It is generally recommended to start house training your German Shepherd puppy once they are between 12 weeks and 16 weeks old. This is a good age to start because whilst it means that your puppy is still young enough to learn life-long skills and have their behavior moulded, at this stage your puppy should have enough control over their bladder and bowels to hold it when necessary — making the potty training process easier for them, and cleaner for you! How long does it take to potty train a German Shepherd puppy? There are other factors which come into play though, such as individual temperament and environmental factors. Be prepared for accidents, but above all, have some wipes and tissue paper on hand all the time as you will get through a lot of this stuff! Conclusion Now you know how we advise you housebreak a German Shepherd puppy, I would love to know how you got on. Get in touch via social media and leave a comment. Similarly, if you have better ideas on how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy, please share those in the community too. The bottom line is this; do not underestimate to the work that goes into taking care of a new puppy. Toilet training your puppy might feel a bit difficult at times, but with the right attitude, attentiveness and patience, they will learn this life-long skill. However, if you have any concerns about their ability to toilet train, always contact a vet or a professional trainer. As unlikely as this is, there are some German Shepherds who will need expert help. You might also like…. Puppies Puppy accidents are inevitable and can also be the most frustrating part of welcoming a new dog into your household. However, with a little bit of patience and the commitment to establishing a routine, you should get your GSD puppy potty trained in no time. This article will dive into how to potty train a German Shepherd puppy as well as give you step-by-step instructions and tips for success. German Shepherds become aware of their ability to control their bodily functions at around 3 weeks old. However, it is best to start potty training as soon as you bring your puppy home, usually, this is around 8 weeks of age. So, a 2-month old can hold their pee for about 2 hours. To avoid accidents, take them for potty breaks once every hour. No, not all adult German Shepherds are potty trained. Nevertheless, the general process of training an adult is pretty much the same as potty training a puppy. The key is in setting your rules and establishing a routine from the beginning. Ideally, choose a relatively quiet place. German Shepherds, like many other dog breeds, are creatures of habit. Having a designated potty area and using it consistently is key to making this process work smoothly. When dogs eliminate, their urine and feces leave behind a unique scent. Smelling it will signal to their brains that it is, indeed, time to go potty. Step 2: Establish a schedule Just like having a consistent potty area, sticking to a regular schedule is essential. Take very young puppies to their designated potty area every hour. As they age and as they become familiar with the routine, you can lengthen the time between their potty breaks. Start by choosing a command and sticking with it. When your pup gets to their potty spot, say your chosen command. Then say your command again and praise your pup as soon as your pup has successfully eliminated. You can usually tell this by their body language. Keep doing that until you can just give the command and your pup knows to squat and poop. Step 4: Reinforce positive potty behavior Whenever your GSD pup potties successfully, give them a good time! Reward them especially when they potty on command. Make sure you give them lots of praises and maybe a good head scratch. Depending on what motivates them, reward them with food or play. Step 5: Give it time and patience Following these steps will give you the best chance of success, but expect it to take some time. Top Tips for Potty Training Success German Shepherds are easy to train , so by following the proper potty training steps, you should get your GSD pup housebroken in no time. Nevertheless, here are some tips that will set you up for success and allow you to get over this tedious phase much more quickly: Tip 1: Make crate training a priority Crate training offers plenty of critical benefits, especially to puppies. Apart from providing a private space where they can feel safe, the right crate can be an excellent housebreaking tool. Tip 2: Establish a routine German Shepherds tend to thrive on a daily routine, so try your best to make every day the same for them. It will also help you more accurately predict when they need to go potty. Try to limit feeding times to three times a day for puppies younger than 6 months. German Shepherds that are at least 6 months old can eat once in the morning and then again in the evening. Tip 4: Withhold water at night Dogs should always have access to clean drinking water, but free access to a water bowl will make potty training more difficult. Once housebroken, your dog can have free access to water. When you take your dog out to potty, try to keep yourself relaxed and only talk when giving the potty command. This will also make your post-potty reward extra special. Disciplining your puppy for a potty accident is likely to do more harm. It will lead to negative potty behavior like being afraid to eliminate in your presence as well as feeling anxiety over having to pee or poop. Just clean it up and hope you can both do better next time. If your dog is having accidents too regularly, you likely need to take your dog out more frequently to prevent it. This is also the best way to maintain proper hygiene and good health. Tip 8: Listen and observe Dogs have their own way of communicating and will be especially communicative when they need to go potty. Some dogs might whine while others paw at the door. You just need to establish a routine and give them time to develop full control over their bladder and bowels. As long as you are committed to following your protocol, you should be able to enjoy a fully housebroken dog soon enough.

Key Takeaways Pro Tip: One in three pets require veterinary treatment each year and vet bills can come to thousands of dollars. Pet insurance can give you peace of mind when your dog gets sick, especially for breeds like the American Bulldog that are prone to certain health conditions. American Bulldog characteristics Physical characteristics American Bulldogs are stocky and muscular dogs. Male Bulldogs are visibly larger and stockier than females and typically grow 22 to 28 inches tall and weigh between 70 and pounds. Female Bulldogs can be 20 to 26 inches tall and weigh from 60 to pounds. The breed is characterized by a large, square head, broad and square muzzle, and powerful jaws. Their eyes are either almond-shaped or round and most commonly brown in color, but some members of the breed can have blue, grey, or hazel eyes. The ears are typically folded forward in a flap and the lips are pendulous. American Bulldogs have a short and soft coat which is typically white with patches of black, brindle, black, red, or shades of gray or brown. Personality The American Bulldog temperament is characterized as brave, loyal, and prepared to protect their owners whenever necessary. American Bulldogs are great with kids and enjoy the company of multiple people. Lifespan American Bulldogs typically live from 10 to 16 years the average lifespan is about .It has the longest life expectancy and fewer genetic health problems. American Bulldog care tips Training and exercise Puppy training classes and early socialization are highly recommended. American Bulldogs need strict routines, good training practices, and positive reinforcement in order to retain proper boundaries. American Bulldogs are very energetic and athletic dogs that require quite a lot of exercise and a wide range of activities that involve a companion, such as hikes, jogs, and tug-of-war games. Regular brushing is needed in order to keep their coat clean and shiny. The ears should be cleaned about once a month, the teeth should be brushed regularly, and the nails should be trimmed every couple of weeks. Nutrition Because American Bulldogs are muscular and very active, they require food that is rich in meat protein and omega-3 fatty acids but low in carbohydrates in order to prevent weight gain. Adult Bulldogs should also be given muscle and joint supplements. Living with Bulldogs As long you keep your American Bulldogs engaged and active, they will be happy in any type of home, be it a family house with a big yard or a city apartment. Be sure your yard is securely fenced so that your dog can run around safely. American Bulldogs can be quite persistent and can easily jump over a fence when chasing a squirrel or a rabbit. Consider creating a busy box or maze to provide enough mental stimulation and prevent boredom which might result in undesirable behavior. When you are not around, be sure to leave interactive toys to keep your Bulldog busy. Common American Bulldog health issues The American Bulldog is generally considered healthy but there are some genetic issues that are common to the breed, such as: Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis NCL, a group of progressive degenerative diseases of the central nervous system. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic American Bulldog Overview American Bulldogs are generally happy, family-loving dogs that do well in homes where they have plenty of space to roam. A big, fenced-in backyard is practically a must-have for one of these energetic dogs, though exercise needs may vary by specific type and breeding. They may be just fine with urban life, so long as they get plenty of walks, and they can even make good jogging or running buddies. They do not, however, take very well to being left alone for long periods of time, and they can feel cooped up in an apartment. American Bulldogs need experienced owners who can be patient with training and start socialization early. Whether they are used for hunting and farm work or just cuddling up with their humans, the American Bulldog makes for an excellent, loyal companion and a competent watchdog. American Bulldog Highlights Temperament: They are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and affection toward their families. American Bulldogs are often described as gentle giants, making them good family pets. Intelligence: These dogs are intelligent and trainable, but they can also be strong-willed. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training are crucial to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults. Exercise Needs: American Bulldogs are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy activities like daily walks, playtime, and even agility training. Lifespan: The average lifespan of an American Bulldog is around 10 to 15 years, depending on genetics, diet, and overall care. Family Compatibility: American Bulldogs can make excellent family pets when raised in a loving and consistent environment. They are known for their patience with children and are protective of their human family members. Guardian Instinct: Due to their protective nature, American Bulldogs can be good guard dogs. They are naturally watchful and alert, which makes them capable of providing security. These two lines may have slight differences in appearance and temperament. Always check local laws and regulations before acquiring one of these dogs. American Bulldog History The ancestor of the American Bulldog is the Old English Bulldog, which was brought to North America by working class immigrants who wanted to keep their working dogs to help on the farms. Rather than being concerned with maintaining breed purity or certain genetic traits, early farmers bred the dogs with the best working qualities for all-around farm work. Wild pigs were an invasive species not native to the American south that had no natural predators, and the strong jaws and muscular build of the American Bulldog was perfect for hunting them down. They were originally used in the barbaric sport of bull baiting. By the end of World War II, the American Bulldog was almost extinct until a few breeders scoured the south for specimens to revive the breed. Today, the American Bulldog is in no danger of extinction and is mostly a family-friendly companion. Adorable American Bulldog puppies will grow to 20 to 28 inches in height and 60 to pounds by the time they reach adulthood. Although these sizes are considered to be standard for the breed, American Bulldogs can be quite a bit larger or smaller. American Bulldog Personality American Bulldogs are friendly, intelligent, and affectionate , though that affectionate nature often leads them to be territorial and overly suspicious of strangers. This makes them lovely family dogs and watchdogs, even for families with children, but they will need socialization training, especially as puppies to get along with unfamiliar humans or other dogs that stop by for a visit. Luckily, their intelligence makes them highly adaptable and trainable. The American Bulldog is a playful breed that has some high exercise needs, and they do well in families that are able to stay active with lots of walks and play time. They can develop in American Bulldogs and may require surgical removal for treatment. It can lead to itching, hair loss, and skin irritation. Treatment typically involves medicated baths and sometimes oral medications. This can lead to weight gain, lethargy, skin issues, and other health problems. It is usually managed with lifelong medication. It can lead to lameness and discomfort, and severe cases may require surgical intervention. Elbow Dysplasia : Elbow dysplasia is another developmental disorder affecting the elbows. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected limb. Treatment may involve medication, weight management, and in some cases, surgery to correct the condition. American Bulldog Care Most of the care that is necessary for the health of an American Bulldog is meeting their needs for exercise and mental stimulation. Failing to do so can result in anxiety, boredom, and destructive behavior. So long as those needs are met, the rest is fairly standard. Maintain normal vet visits, check their ears weekly, keep up with monthly nail clipping and normal dental care. One of the issues you may face is the potential for drooling that is common among bully breeds. You should take care to wipe your dog as needed unless you want a generous amount of slobber all over your home. American Bulldog Feeding An American Bulldog diet should be formulated for a large to giant breed, and their high energy level should be taken into consideration. Their needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood. You should discuss with them how to form an appropriate diet for your dog. Traditionally they are white with patches of brindle, red, or black, but there are quite a few more color variations to the breed in modern times. They may have patterns that include shades of black, red, brindle, brown, or fawn. American Bulldogs usually have black on the nose and the rims of the eyes, but they may also have shades of pink. Their eye color is usually brown. Although these are breed standards, some American Bulldogs have been known to be merle or have coats that contain shades of blue. Weekly brushing should keep it under control with baths as needed. So long as they are trained properly, American Bulldogs are great with children and are very loyal to all members of the family. It is also important to train children on how to properly handle and treat animals to avoid incident. American Bulldogs are large animals, and overly energetic play can cause injuries. The same can be said for interactions with other pets. So long as American Bulldogs are socialized and trained, they usually get along with other dogs just fine. Play should be supervised, especially with smaller dogs that can easily get hurt when playing with a large, muscular American Bulldog. You can also check local shelters near you, or you can use our adoption page that lets you search by breed and zip code for adoptable dogs. American Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Their personalities are easy to love; they have a confident demeanor and are known for their almost clown-like antics when excited, making them an excellent family companion. This breed is quite family-oriented but may be distant with strangers at first. Their characteristic aloofness to outsiders helps make them great guard dogs. With consistent training and established rules and boundaries, this powerful pup can learn with the best of them. As a working breed, they were known for their wild pig and cattle catching abilities, making them indispensable on southern ranches in the US. Grooming Hurray for easy care! Make sure your vet gives your pup a professional cleaning every year, too. Be sure to put nail trimming every couple of weeks and ear cleaning monthly is usually enough on the grooming menu, too. And as for baths, plan on a bath about once a month or so. You may be able to just use your nose. If you detect an unpleasant odor eww! Training When it comes to training, an American Bulldog puppy needs a confident pup parent who uses positive reinforcement to teach various skills, such as how to walk nicely on a leash and come when called. Start training your American Bulldog puppy early to get them used to the ropes. Once you understand what works for them, training becomes easy. Remember: American Bulldogs are smart. These social interactions give your dog a chance to explore a variety of environments and social situations. Feed your puppy large-breed puppy kibble for their first 14 months to support slow but consistent growth. Skip food or supplements with calcium until your pooch is fully grown and eating an adult diet. The added calcium could disrupt healthy bone development. Treats are an essential part of training and a great way to show your pup you love them. However, too many treats can lead to a tubby pup, so check with your vet if you need help figuring out a proper treat-to-mealtime ratio. Exercise Even though they have a moderate energy level, an American Bulldog needs a lot of exercise. And exercise is important to keep your dog out of trouble. If they have unused energy, an American Bulldog will resort to destructive behaviors to release that energy, like chewing on your favorite pair of shoes. This athletic dog benefits greatly from structured walks and play to work the mind and their muscular build. As a puppy parent, strive to offer non-impact movement such as hiding balls in the yard or offering a puzzle toy, as these games lower the risk of joint and bone damage early on. Get out of the house twice a day or more if your young dog is up for it for playtime and walks that last between 20 and 30 minutes. Trainers often suggest skipping the dog park because structured play is more difficult in this setting. Instead, get creative with activities. Think: fetch, tug-of-war with a rope toy or a chewy option filled with something delicious. You may even try lower-impact dog sports like agility or nose work. Both are an excellent way to keep your pup mentally and physically engaged. Remember, a happy dog is a tired dog! Ideal Environment Both city and country homes will suit the American Bulldog as long as you can offer lots of exercise and playtime. Still, families with kids are a good match for this protective and intelligent breed. A structured day with regular walks and chances to play with a variety of toys is the best environment for the American Bulldog. Staving off boredom is paramount, and, of course, no animal likes to be home alone for a long time. When considering the American Bulldog as a pet, bear in mind that training is the key to their success, especially when adding this breed to a home with kids or other dogs. Pup parents need to be aware of some of these issues so they can help their dog live the healthiest life possible. Joint Dysplasia: This joint abnormality is seen in the hips and elbows, and a dog with dysplasia may run, jump and climb less than usual. Most often, the issue is a rupture or partial tear. Cherry Eye: Did you know dogs have a third eyelid? Bone Cancer: Often found in the long bones arms, legs , the cause for this condition is unknown, though vets feel it may have a genetic or environmental component. Deafness: Deafness, which can occur in one or both ears, may be acquired via drug exposure or infection. But deafness could also be hereditary and is linked to dogs with light coats and eyes. Acquired deafness is usually permanent but may improve over time without intervention. A special diet may be the treatment or medications, depending on the cause. Spinal Issues: Degenerative myelopathy DM is often genetic in nature and affects the spinal cord, leading to weakness and hind limb paralysis. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: NCL is an inherited, progressive and rare neurological disorder that starts showing up between 1 and 2 years of age. The most obvious symptom is behavioral changes in the dog, and the pup will usually lose coordination and eyesight. It can be discovered through a DNA test, and at this time, there are no treatments. This proud pup carries an imported pedigree, having been brought over from across the pond as a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was originally bred for bull baiting. Thankfully, this horrific sport was outlawed in England in .Back in the 17th century, early settlers packed these working dogs with them for service on farms and ranches. The American Bulldog became a utility player, stepping in to accomplish many tasks, such as guarding livestock and catching cattle and feral pigs. In fact, were it not for their success as an excellent catch dog in the southern states, we might not know the breed today. John D. Johnson and Alan Scott were able to breed the last few native American Bulldogs in the southern US, resulting in two types the Scott type and the Johnson type that thrive today. These breeds differ in appearance; the Johnson American Bulldog sports a bigger, stronger build, a larger head and short muzzle, and the Scott American Bulldog has more lithe features, such as an athletic, small-boned frame and a longer muzzle. Are you looking to add an American Bulldog as a family member? Check out the AKC puppy finder to find a reputable breeder. You can also seek out local American Bulldog rescues to find a worthy, loving dog to call your own, or keep an eye out for the breed at your local shelter. FAQs Do American bulldogs shed? Yes, American Bulldogs shed, albeit lightly and seasonally. Are American Bulldogs Pitbulls? Are American Bulldogs aggressive? American Bulldogs may be aggressive toward other dogs, particularly unfamiliar ones of the same sex, in part because of their protective and somewhat dominant nature. But with consistent training and early socialization, this breed is considered a loving family dog that does well with kids and other pets. How long do American Bulldogs live? American Bulldogs can have a generous life span, often living between 10 and 12 years. Providing your dog with the proper diet and exercise can help your pup live a full life. What are the most popular American Bulldog names? Get more dog names here. What are the most common American Bulldog mixes? Families of all kinds admire this agile, athletic breed and count themselves lucky to own such a loving, loyal pet. Female Names. Dog domestic dog The American Bulldog is a large, muscular breed of mastiff-type that was used as stock dogs, catch dogs, and guardians on farms and ranches. John D. Johnson and Alan Scott are widely regarded as the forefathers of rescuing the breed from extinction. Small farmer and ranch owners used this all-around working dog for many tasks including farm guardians, stock dogs, and catch dogs. These dogs were not a bona fide breed by modern standards as was the case for most other dogs; kennel clubs and breed registries did not exist until , [6] at least two centuries after the Old English Bulldog first migrated to America. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Old English Bulldog had many different strains for cattle-droving, bull-baiting , farm dogs, and butcher's dogs. In America, no records remain, but rather landrace strains are acknowledged that initially depended on where a dog's master originated in England, the majority of which were bred to work as evidenced by accounts of the age in local newspapers and written inventories upon death. Later, breeding decisions were dependent on the best working farm dogs, despite breed or background. Later, in states such as Texas, several separate strains of the " bulldog "-type dogs were kept by ranchers as utilitarian working dogs. Other dogs in time became guard dogs on plantations. The bulldogs were the settlers' only means of sufficiently dealing with the vermin. Johnson scoured the backroads of the South looking for the best specimens to revive the breed. During this time, a young Alan Scott grew an interest in Johnson's dogs and began to work with him on the revitalization process. At another point, Johnson began crossing his original lines with an atavistic English Bulldog from the North that had maintained its genetic athletic vigor, creating the Bully type American Bulldog, also known as the Johnson type or the Classic type. All over the world, they are used variously as "hog dogs" catching escaped hogs or hunting feral pigs , as cattle drovers, and as working or sport K-9s. American Bulldogs also successfully compete in several dog sports such as dog obedience , Schutzhund , French Ring, Mondioring, Iron Dog competition, and weight pulling. The shoulders and chest tend to be the most muscular parts of the American Bulldog. Its coat is short and generally smooth, requiring little maintenance except a bath every few weeks. The breed is a light to moderate shedder. Colors, while historically predominantly white with patches of red, black, or brindle, have grown in recent years to include many color patterns, including black, red, brown, fawn, and all shades of brindle. Black pigmentation on the nose and eye rims is traditionally preferred, with only some pink allowed. Eye color is usually brown, but heterochromia also occurs, although this is also considered a cosmetic fault. American Bulldogs are known to drool more than other breeds of dogs. The Bully type is generally a larger, heavier dog with a shorter muzzle, but the muzzle should never be so short that it causes difficulty with breathing. Standard types are generally more athletic with longer muzzles and a more square head. Many modern American Bulldogs are a combination of the two types, usually termed "hybrid". In general, American Bulldogs weigh between 27 and 54 kg 60 to lb and are 52 to 70 cm 20 to 28 in at the withers , but have been known to greatly exceed these dimensions, especially in the "out of standard" nonworking stock. Temperament and characteristics[ edit ] This section contains instructions, advice, or how-to content. The purpose of Wikipedia is to present facts, not to train. Please help improve this article either by rewriting the how-to content or by moving it to Wikiversity , Wikibooks or Wikivoyage. August An American Bulldog at guard dog training American Bulldogs are typically confident, social, ebullient, and lively dogs that are at ease with their families. They are not as friendly, however, with people they do not know; their ancestors were farm dogs that guarded the home, the livestock, and the children when their master was away. That said, they do not have the affinity for water a retriever would: they swim if they have to do it, not because they particularly enjoy it. However, they also prize the breed having a soft, affectionate inner nature. Some health problems in American bulldogs are often found within certain genetic lines, and are not common to the entire breed, while others, such as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis NCL , [25] Ichthyosis , disorders of the kidney and thyroid, ACL tears, hip dysplasia , cherry eye , elbow dysplasia , entropion , ectropion , and bone cancer are more common to the general population of American Bulldogs. Some American Bulldogs are prone to allergies. Due to the ideal of beauty regarding the shape of the face the skull malformation brachycephaly was increased by breeding selection. American Bulldogs in popular culture[ edit ] This section needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources in this section. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. February .What kind of temperament and personality does the American Bulldog have? The most descriptive words that come to my mind regarding American Bulldog temperament and behavior are: powerful, vigorous, courageous, determined, energetic, confident. What were American Bulldogs used for? The ancestors of the American Bulldog arrived in the United States with the first settlers. These all-purpose working dogs were used for controlling unruly cattle and semi-wild hogs, hunting wild boar, and protecting their homestead and family. What traits would help American Bulldogs accomplish their work? That's right.How big are American Bulldogs? Height and weight? Size is quite variable: inches at the shoulder, and pounds, which puts them in the LARGE category. What colors do American Bulldogs come in? The majority are white with patches of black, brown, tan, red, or brindle. They might also be solid white. Do American Bulldogs come in different "types"? The Johnson line is heavier with a shortened face and a rolling gait — think of an English Bulldog, though not nearly as extreme. The Scott line is more athletic with a longer muzzle and a tighter, springier gait. However, most American Bulldogs today are not one or the other, but a hybrid blend of these lines. Some lines of American Bulldogs are specifically bred for showing in the conformation ring, while other lines emphasize the breed's hunting skills, primarily against wild boar. How much exercise do American Bulldogs need? A lot. American Bulldogs were not developed to walk around passively in your house and yard. If you don't provide enough vigorous exercise and challenging mental stimulation, an American Bulldog is capable of destroying houses and yards. Don't get this breed unless you're going to get him involved in weight pulling, protection dog sports, etc. Anything less is just wasting the breed. Do American Bulldogs need a fenced yard? Are American Bulldogs easy to train? Yes and no. If you are an assertive person who can "read" and respond to a strong-willed working dog and establish a healthy leader-follower relationship , an American Bulldog learns readily. If you're more of a mild-mannered, peaceful, live-and-let-live kind of person.This breed is not for easygoing beginners. Are American Bulldogs easy to housebreak? They're average. Are American Bulldogs friendly with people? It varies. Some American Bulldogs are friendly and good-natured with almost everyone. But most are loyal to their own family, and a bit standoffish though still polite with strangers. American Bulldogs who threaten innocent people are not typical of the breed. American Bulldogs often have protective instincts , but without actual protection training, they are not effective protectors. But they can still be excellent deterrents.Are American Bulldogs good with children? Usually they are very tolerant, and yet.I don't recommend American Bulldogs for children younger than about age .This is a very strong, vigorous breed that could knock over a small child. In addition, bulldog breeds can have issues of resource guarding, which means being possessive of their food and chew toys. I don't allow children or other pets near an American Bulldog who is engrossed in his food or bones. Are American Bulldogs good with other dogs? Most American Bulldogs are dominant and pushy toward other dogs of the same sex — pitched battles may ensue. Also, because of the strong prey drive of certain AB lines, it's a risk to keep those predatory dogs around smaller dogs who might run. Are American Bulldogs good with cats? Very, very iffy. Some might be fine with a cat in their own family.I just wouldn't risk it. How much do American Bulldogs shed? American Bulldogs are average shedders, which might surprise you if you thought shorthaired breeds shed less. Not true at all. American Bulldogs actually shed more than you might think, and those short coarse hairs can stick tenaciously to your clothing and furnishings. Are American Bulldogs hypoallergenic? Good for people with allergies? If you're allergic to dog dander, no. If you're allergic to canine saliva, no. American Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic dogs at all. How much grooming do American Bulldogs need? Just an occasional quick brush to sweep the dirt, dander, and loose hair off your dog's skin. What's a good training schedule for training American Bulldog puppies? What behavior problems do American Bulldogs tend to have? American Bulldogs can be a major handful between months of age. Boisterous, rowdy, like a bull in a china shop, young American Bulldogs are all about chewing — whether destructive or otherwise is up to you! Behavior issues in American Bulldog adults tend to center around pulling on the leash, and aggression — people-aggression, cat-aggression, dog-aggression, or possessiveness of bones or food. What health problems might American Bulldogs have? American Bulldogs have sky-high rates of hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which cause lameness and crippling arthritic pain. I settle for nothing else with this troubled breed. What breeds are similar to the American Bulldog? American Pit Bull Terriers , especially those from performance lines, can be similar to American Bulldogs. The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog, a rare breed maintained in the Deep South, shares similar roots as the American Bulldog, was used for the same purposes, has a similar appearance, etc. Where can I buy an American Bulldog puppy? Read my article. Where can I adopt an older American Bulldog? I just got a new American Bulldog. Which pages should I read first? American Bulldog Health , which includes my advice on feeding, vaccinations, and daily health care. These pages are very important, because if you start your American Bulldog puppy off on the wrong foot, he will probably experience health problems later on. Starting off right is essential. Training American Bulldogs , which includes my advice on respect training, housebreaking, and socialization. Again, you must start your American Bulldog puppy off on the right foot by teaching him what he needs to know, and you must avoid doing the wrong things with him so that he doesn't develop bad habits that will be much harder to fix later on. Do male dogs or female dogs make better pets? Ah, let the debate begin! Honestly, male American Bulldogs have pros and cons, and female American Bulldogs have pros and cons. The store manager assures me they only buy from responsible breeders. Could this be true? No responsible American Bulldog breeder would ever place one of their American Bulldog puppies in a pet shop for resale. How do I pick the best American Bulldog puppy from a litter? You can do puppy personality tests. What's the best dog food for American Bulldogs? I have to take my American Bulldog to the vet soon for shots. Which vaccinations does he really need? The schedule of vaccinations that dogs really need has changed dramatically — but unfortunately most vets are not telling you this, because a good chunk of their income depends on frequent vaccinations. Please don't get any more shots for your American Bulldog until you've read my article on Puppy Shots and Dog Vaccinations. What are the pros and cons of spaying and neutering my American Bulldog, and when should it be done? Spaying and neutering are often recommended too early, which can lead to health problems later in life. I have a question about American Bulldogs that I don't see answered on your web site. It's probably answered in one of my books:. Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The very muscular, sturdy and powerful, yet compact frame of the American Bulldog remains higher on the leg, more agile and swifter than its English counterpart. Some individuals are reportedly able to leap six or more feet into the air. Males are characteristically stockier and heavier boned than the more refined females. The head is large with strong jaws. Agile and light on his feet, the chest is wide and moderately deep, giving the sense of athletic ability and power. The neck is muscular, tapering from the shoulders to the head and may have a slight dewlap. The head is square, large and broad with muscular cheeks relatively in proportion to the size and overall structure of the dog. There is a defined furrow between the rounded eyes, with a distinct, sharply defined, deep stop. The strong muzzle is broad and square. The preferred bite is reverse scissors, but a moderate underbite, scissors or even bite are acceptable. A variety of ear types are acceptable including cropped, rose, half-pricked and forward flap. Uncropped ears are preferred in the American Bulldog Breeders Association standard. Eyes are most often brown, but can come in any color. They sometimes have split eyes, where one eye is brown and the other eye is blue. Black eye rims are preferred on white dogs. Pink eye rims are considered a fault according to the written standard. The nose is black, red, brown or grizzle; black is the preferred color according to the standard. In black-nosed dogs, the preferred lip color is black, though some pink is permitted. The lips should be full but not too loose. The front legs are heavy-boned, strong and straight. The hindquarters should be very broad and thick with well-defined muscles. The tail is low-set, begins thick at the base, and tapers to a point. The coat is smooth and short, and comes in all shades of brindle including red brindle, varying degrees of white, red, brown, tan, fawn and piebald. Temperament The American Bulldog is loyal, reliable, brave and determined. Not a hostile dog. Alert and self-confident, this breed genuinely loves children. It is known for its acts of heroism toward its master. It has strong protective instincts, and needs a firm, confident, consistent pack leader. Well-socialize and obedience train them at an early age, to prevent them from becoming reserved with strangers. Without that strong-minded pack leader who can tell the dog what is expected of it, it may be aggressive with other dogs. They need to be around people and know their place in their pack to be truly happy. This breed tends to drool and slobber. Without enough daily mental and physical exercise they will become high strung and may become hard to handle. Height, Weight Height: Males 22 - 28 inches 55 - 70 cm Females 20 - 26 inches 52 - 65 cm Weight: Males 70 - pounds 32 - 54 kg Females 60 - pounds 27 - 45 kg Health Problems Prone to hip dysplasia. Living Conditions The American Bulldog will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Exercise The American Bulldog should be taken on a long daily walk. Life Expectancy. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article. Vocality level 3 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 The American Bulldog is an agile, confident and loyal protector for his human family, as well as of personal property. He is a gentle, affectionate and loving companion, albeit fearless and ready to strike should any intruder cross his path. An energetic, active working dog, the American Bulldog exudes a dominant, powerful and athletic appearance, with strong muscles and substantial boning. He gets along well with young children, as well as dogs and other pets so long as he was raised with them from the start. The American Bulldog does not do well when left alone for prolonged periods of time. With proper socialization, training and regular exercise, the American Bulldog is a true companion and excellent watchdog. Upkeep Because of his working past, the American Bulldog is quite familiar with being outdoors, but like most dogs, he thrives on living indoors with his owner. As such, he should be frequently exercised with plenty of engaging activity to burn off energy and combat boredom, avoiding consequential destructive behavior. Otherwise, the American Bulldog is a relatively low-maintenance breed, requiring not much else than mopping up his regular drool and slobber and minimal grooming for his short, fine coat. Known for his strength, courage and ease around livestock, the breed began being used for bull baiting before it was outlawed in England. Consequently following the ban, the breed was replaced with the less athletic, shorter and stockier English Bulldog. Meanwhile, the original bulldog type was preserved by working class immigrants, who brought them on their journey to America to use as all-around working dogs on farms and ranches in the South. Johnson worked to revive the breed alongside Alan Scott and other breeders. Today, the modern American Bulldog as we know it remains a well-rounded working dog, courageous guard dog and faithful family companion. Related Content.

Raised in our home environment with everyday socialization. Our professional knowledge and training skills give our breeding program for our puppies, a great edge that you will find hard to see elsewhere. Sharing Because you Need One of these Babies!! Other Financing avialable is Paypal Credit - Affordable financing options for customers with good to no credit. We invested 34 years and a life time or research into developing a healthy and stable companion for your whole family. Our Spacious home and land in Kansas allow us to train and socialize the puppies every day. Our family raises our puppies in our home underfoot and around our children giving them the best start in life with great temperaments. Now that we had to downsize we trusted only our Family to continue our legacy, even though we all breed just a couple litters a year, All the orginal wonderfull DNA Genetic lines are all from Jenina. Even our Adult Children, hardly children in there 30's lol. .Raise these amazing dogs We only offer Pick up here or Breeder delivery by us the breeders only. We Do all use this ONE Website to make it easier for you to find just the right pup and saves all of us time and money so we can spend more of that on our dogs. Each pup and Parent will be listed to the owner so you know exactly who to contact. Jenina welcomes any questions since she has owned many many generations of each of these parents. Hello, Thank you for taking a moment to learn about us. I have been in the pet industry for over 33 years I have a degree in Vet. We take pride in offering the best family pets of Chihuahua's, Pugs. We are dedicated to serving the needs of our puppy's future parents each and every day. We only do a few litters per year so we do take lists because we are about Quaity not mass production. We all strive to bring you the healthiest, well rounded puppy's. We look forward to helping you to choose one of our baby's to make, your new family member. We also have a Lifetime take back guarantee! Started potty training and leash training! Raised in our home with our children and other pets. Proven Health lines and Good Genetic lines. They are raised in our home with our children. Please call with any questions no question to small. They are Wonderful dogs!!! We Start exposing our pups to grooming at a very early age so they will love baths their whole lives. Thank you for taking the time to contact us and read all about our family Jenina , Shelby, Alex, Troy, Jammie We are always taking Continuing Education courses for all aspects of animals and their husbandry. We give our puppies the most comprehensive preventive vaccination and de-worming schedule in the nation. We have the guidance of two veterinarians, as well as some of the best canine specialist in the country, and our preventive schedule also extends to our adults. We have not, to date, had to treat any of our animals for any communicable diseases, and we constantly strive to control our disease exposure. We take the health of our adult dogs and puppies very seriously so you can confidently bring your new puppy into your home without worry. We never allow any visitors into our home, because we provide a strictly controlled disease free area. We always Microchip our pups with AKC reunite world readable chips. Once you recieve your pups you will be able to register them to you and put in your information. If your dog gets out or stolen and you dont have it registred it will not help. These tags are amazing your pet with have all their vet records the shots and wormings with all theri birth date and other info. Best part if your pet gets out and someone scans the tag you will get an instant alert to where you pet was just scanned , Like low jack for your pet lol. .Microchips work well but keep in mind only ones who can read it is shelters or vets, the average person who may find your pet doesnt carry a scanner this way no matter who finds them people can use their cell phone to scan the tag and get your phone number to call you and say "Hey i just found your beloved pet! Just let us know before you get your puppy that you want this option. We strive for a better,safer life for your loved ones! We do ALL the shots that are needed not the "hey my pup got one shot.Call around ask how much all the vet visits and shots and testing would be. That less expensive pup would cost to get up to the par of one of our babies end up costing much more in the long run. We feed vitamins and premium NON-by product food. Why does this matter? We breed to the standard of that breed , So when you want that breed to suit you , you know you will get that eact breed disposition. You know your puppy will be exactly what the breed temperament AKC says it should be, pups will be held daily from birth, and raised in our home around everyday sounds and children they will be happy health and confident. If you picked a pug or chihuahua for their traits you know those are the traits you will get, because our dogs are pure to that breed and not raised in an old garage or basement old yard somewhere. Ask past owners, we do a lot to start your pet on a potty training routine. We start on wee pads then to puppy litter then outside. Many past owners are shocked how well our pups take to their own personal potty training schedule. Endless years of love and companionship without massive vet or Trainer bills to fix problems makes your puppy priceless!! Any pet that is bred to be smaller than standard size for its breed, parents still should be health tested and sound before ever breeding. Even a wonderful breeder who breeds to stay within the AKC standards, will always have a few puppies every so often who are Smaller or Larger than expected. Even with careful breeding, God has the final say. That cares about preserving great quality genetics and temperaments and well-bred pets for years to come. We remove them from the site hold them for you and tell others they are sold. No Exceptions unless pet is found unsound before going home. Links below is how to have them come straight to your door! With these products we believe in quality food and vitamins so much that we do extend our pups health guarantee with the use of these products! Email: frenchiepugs outlook. They specialize in rare color puppies, including black, tan, sable, and blue french bulldogs. All of their puppies are raised in the home and provided with outdoor playtime. Their adult dogs also have access to large yards and outdoor buildings with heating and AC as well as indoor playtime and for socializing. Frenchie-Pugs have been breeding for 15 years and breed first and foremost for health and personality. Dust Storm Pugs Phone: Email: duststormpugs hotmail. These breeders share their homes and lives with their beautiful dogs. Check out their Facebook page for puppy and litter updates. Bill and Lisa are a retired couple who now dedicate their time to providing a happy, healthy, and thriving life to their family and pets. Their fascination with Pugs began in after a family friend retired from breeding pugs themselves. They immediately divided to start a new adventure and have been breeding their own pooches ever since for over 15 years. Corner Rock Critters Phone: Website: cornerrockcritters. Corner Rock raises companion dogs of all sizes including Pugs alongside other farm animals. This is a small, family-owned business. Corner Rock works hard to start your new puppy off on the right foot, for a lifetime of good behavior and obedience. Tammy has been breeding since and now runs a small kennel in the country where her dogs and puppies have plenty of space to run around and enjoy outdoor and indoor facilities. Tammy believes she has a great bloodline- perfect for super cute Pugs. All dogs and pups are fed high-quality food and come with a health certification from the local veterinarian, deworming, shots, AKC papers and a complimentary bag of puppy food. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time. Welcome to the Kansas state page on TrustedPuppies. Situated in the heart of America, Kansas boasts a unique blend of breathtaking prairies, rolling hills, and thriving cities, making it an excellent destination for Pug aficionados. Our mission is to connect you with the best Kansas Pug breeders and puppies for sale throughout Kansas. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Ranking 28th in dog ownership among the states, Kansas is home to an estimated thousand dogs. Kansas offers an array of dog-friendly amenities, including numerous dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events that cater to the canine community. Immerse yourself in the lively dog show scene by attending events like the Sunflower Cluster Dog Show, where dog enthusiasts gather to celebrate their love for their cherished companions. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Pug breeders offer secure and affordable flight delivery, with a dedicated flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring they have a safe and comfortable trip as they travel to their new home in the Sunflower State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option ensures your Pug puppy is brought to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet travel. Begin your search for the perfect Pug puppy today on TrustedPuppies.

We work solely with Chadde JoliCoeur. Under his direct supervision we are improving the Renascence Bulldogge that he has created. Every breeding is hand selected under Chadde's guidence. With his mentoring, we will always produce top of the line Renascence Bulldogges. Rob and Stephanie Townsend have been in the bulldog world for over 5 years. She is the foundation female for Ragnarok Kennels. The Renascence Bulldogs is bred to a consistent standard and is slowly gaining popularity, but presently remains rare and fairly unknown. Chadde JoliCoeur formed the Renascence Bulldogs Kennel Club, which has strict breeding laws and is dedicated to ensuring proper promotion and bright future of the breed. This handsome bully is slowly gaining popularity and the number of breeders in America is growing. Very protective and territorial, the Renascence Bulldogs makes an excellent property guardian and personal protection dog. It is playful and friendly with familiar people, but can be reserved with strangers. Athletic, intelligent and healthy, this powerful Molosser enjoys an active lifestyle and is easy to train. The Renascence Bulldogge is muscular, strongly-boned and nicely proportioned, having a large head with powerful jaws and a massive neck and body. Although a docked tail is preferred, those left in their natural state are also accepted. The coat is short, flat and smooth, coming in a range of typical bully colors, from white to fawn to black, with or without brindling and tan or white markings. Building a trustworthy, capable, vigorous, and beastly Olde English Bulldogge is my lifestyle. My breeding program permeates my entire life and gives me purpose. Take a look around my site to see the Evolution Bulldogge difference. This is my story. The giant bulldog in the cartoons had a magnificent head, colossal chest, low, broad, heavy, and muscular body! Immediately Bulldogs became a massive fascination for me. The cartoons with bulldogs were by far my favorite. I would become a very excited kiddo each time a bulldog made a television appearance. This fascination grew into an obsession. Unfortunately, my first introduction to a real bulldog was a disappointment mixed with a strange sense of enthusiasm. My friend Mikey had a female English Bulldog at his house. She was tiny, chunky, super cute, and snorty. He showed me that when he nudged her chest with his shoe, she would grip it and snarl in rough play. Her bully mind was incredible, but her body was lacking. I really thought bulldogs were going to be how television portrayed them to children. There had to be something better. I was fifteen years old when I met Mr. Jack, an over-sized English Bulldog stud. I spent hours playing and wrestling around with him. He was a great bulldog, and he was reasonably similar to my giant cartoon bulldog dream. Unfortunately, he was not quite the icon of health or vigor I had hoped for, but I was completely hooked. I made a clear decision. I would become the greatest bulldog breeder in the world. My parents, however, put my dream as a bulldog breeder on hold. Over the next decade and a half, I spent countless hours and days researching genetics, anatomy, physiology, and biology. I was learning how to breed healthy versions of my beloved cartoon image bulldog. In my studies, I realized the English Bulldog is structurally limited in regards to health. I began looking at other bully breeds in an attempt to find a healthy bulldog that matched my vision. For many years my search came up lacking. By the time I reached this earth, bulldogs had become a gross mutation of their former selves. The bulldog of old- the courageous, capable, athletic, powerful bulldogs had long since become extinct. I become less enamored with the English Bulldog breed and more so interested in my image of what I felt a bulldog should be. But I did not Stop Searching. They were local, and the name in the olde tyme spelling piqued my Bulldog curiosity. I called and made an appointment to see what these Olde English Bulldogges were all about. I rushed right over to see this new promise of a better Bulldog. When I arrived, I saw the most superb Bulldog bitch that I had ever seen in my life! Bulldogs only moved that powerfully and quickly in the cartoons! I knew I was onto something with my brand new introduction to the Olde English Bulldogge. The sales pitch that the Olde English Bulldogge was healthy and capable sold me. Traveling around the country, I visited breeders of this amazing new breed and I bought up puppy after puppy. Dog after dog failed health and temperament tests. It quickly became evident that the Olde English Bulldogge breed also suffers from several of the same health issues which plague the English Bulldog. Compelled by obsession, I started all over, In spite of my losses. The lessons were expensive, in addition to well-received. Nevertheless, I searched tirelessly for Olde Bulldogges that would put me within reach of my ultimate goal of a bigger, better bulldog. Taking some significant losses, I realized getting what I wanted would mean creating it myself. Still obsessed with my dream, I kept searching and searching. With a few tastes here and there of what could be, I eventually stumbled upon a few exceptional dogs. As dogs finally started passing health testing, I could move forward. This small handful of quality dogs would lay the foundation for a solid breeding program. I began linebreeding my productions to make great family companion bulldogs that excel at protection. Evolution Bulldogges was born! Fast Forward a Bit… With multiple generations of tested and proven dogs, my main focus is to advance my Bulldogge breeding program consistently. My secondary focus is to help you get just the right Olde English Bulldogge puppy for you. Occasionally I have other puppies available who are not yet listed. When you purchase an Olde Bulldogge puppy from Evolution Bulldogges, you can be sure you are getting the highest quality Bulldogge puppy money can buy. If you are interested in learning about my Olde English Bulldogge kennel and breeding program or purchasing bulldog puppies from me, please feel free to contact me. I would love to hear from you and will help you in any way I can. He is an exceptional dogge. He loves kids and is very affectionate. He has very good ball drive and is athletic. He is very soft tempered and responds quickly to training. He is eager to please and will do anything for a chance to play with a ball. He has natural protective instincts. He is a very well mannered house dog and thoroughly enjoys his family. He is not a dominant dogge. He is 75 lbs. Stands 18" at the shoulder. His head is 23". His date of birth is April 21, .He produces wide, stocky and thick bulldogges. Max is available for stud to approved females. These dogges are well known for their willingness to please their owners as well as being natural guardians of their family and property. They all have exceptional structure and conformation. These dogges are known for their natural protective instincts and high desire to work and please their owners. All are very athletic and are very affectionate with kids and family. He is dark brindle with a dark black mask. He is very aware of his surroundings and has natural protective instincts. He is a happy dogge that loves being with his family. Some of the well known bulldogges in Chuckles pedigree are his maternal grandfather's, Greenly's Adam Odo and Evolution's Static. Chuckles has excellent defensive drives and is a natural guardian and protector. He is aware and alert of his surroundings. He has very solid nerves and excellent drives. He is a very athletic and confident bulldogge. He is more of a dominant dog that has a very stable and workable temperament. He breathes well and loves to work, play and hang out with family and friends. Chuckles combines the size and strength of his mother's line and the strong willingness to please of his father's line. His date of birth is July 31, .He has excellent size and strength. He stands 21" and weighs 85 lbs. His head is 24". He is a large bulldogge. He has an outstanding pedigree with numerous outstanding dogges in his ancestry. He produces large, confident and athletic bulldogges. Chuckles is available for stud to approved females. He is a very well built bulldogge that is considered to be a blue trindle in color. He is 20" tall and weighs 90 lbs. He is very young. His date of birth is July 15, .His head is 23" and still growing. He has a very nice temperament. He loves people and is very affectionate. He can be a little silly at times but still has a desire to please and protect his family and friends. He is co-owned and lives and resides in Utah. He has a nice square and muscular build with a phenomenal structure and fantastic temperament. Shoreline's Sully. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. The first reference to the word with the modern spelling is dated or in a letter by a man named Preswick Eaton where he writes: "procuer me two good Bulldogs, and let them be sent by ye first shipp. The dog that grabbed the bull by the nose and pinned it to the ground would be the victor. Over the centuries, dogs used for bull-baiting developed the stocky bodies and massive heads and jaws that typify the breed as well as a ferocious and savage temperament. This amended the existing legislation to protect animals from mistreatment and included as "cattle" bulls, dogs, bears, and sheep, so that bull and bear-baiting as well as cockfighting became prohibited. However, emigrants did have a use for such dogs in the New World. In midth century New York, Bulldogs were used as a part of a citywide roundup effort led by Governor Richard Nicolls. Because cornering and leading wild bulls was dangerous, Bulldogs were trained to seize a bull by its nose long enough for a rope to be secured around its neck. Despite slow maturation so that growing up is rarely achieved by two and a half years, bulldogs' lives are relatively short. At five to six years of age they are starting to show signs of aging. The outcome was a shorter, wider dog with a brachycephalic skull. Though today's Bulldog looks tough, he cannot perform the job he was originally created for as he cannot withstand the rigors of running and being thrown by a bull, and also cannot grip with such a short muzzle. The oldest single breed specialty club is The Bulldog Club England , which was formed in .There they wrote the first standard of perfection for the breed. King Orry was reminiscent of the original Bulldogs, lighter boned and very athletic. Dockleaf was smaller and heavier set, more like modern Bulldogs. King Orry was declared the winner that year, finishing the mile walk while Dockleaf collapsed. Wallace then selectively added in in other bully style breeds to complete his version of the Olde English Bulldogge. Wallace is considered by many people knowledgeable of the breed to be the original creator of the Olde English Bulldogge, as he started his breeding program decades before either Leavitt or Hermes. English bulldog enthusiast, he was disappointed by health problems and breeding too common in the modern bulldog. By doing some research, he soon realized that the "show" bulldog had little left from his ancestors. Based on ancient paintings and engravings, and following a breeding program developed by State University of Ohio, he decided to recreate the original English bulldog that existed at the th century England. Thus was created the Leavitt Bulldogge. Using perio statues and pictures Mr. Leavitt started his breeding program searching the same look, though in a bigger and more agressive looking animal. It was Mr. Leavitt who coined this breed the "Olde English Bulldogge" and thus, defenders of the breed say that only dogs that trace to his blood line can claim the name Olde English Bulldoge. Leavitt used a line-breeding scheme developed by the State University of Ohio. The nucleus of the breeding scheme consited of three unrelated unrelated adult dogs, one female and two males. The females pups from the first cross were bred to the second male. The consecutive females were then bred back to their uncles throughout the generations. Leavitt used two unrelated trios to make outcrosses possible at a later stage. He used breeds that all have old Bulldog in their background. The breed now counts many generations of consistent and registered OEB litters breeding true to type. Leavitt describes the character of his dogs as "courageous and determined, without geing overly aggressive". In , Mr. In an ongoing effort to differentiate his dogs from this larger body of OEBs and other alternative breeders, Mr. Leavitt decided in to rename his line of bulldogs, "Leavitt Bulldogs", the name by wich they have, in fact, always been known. The appelation "Olde English Bulldogge was high jacked by other breeders. Today the terme Olde English Bullogge Old English Bulldog is a general denomination for the the different bloodlines of the recreated Bulldogs of the old times. These dogs are the truly old-fashioned bulldogs of the old Roman days, bulldogs of days gone by. These dogs almost became extinct back in the early 's. But actually they were alive and well in the backwoods of America. The Hermes family had been raising these dogs privately for 3 generations, selectively breeding for large size, excellent health, and a unique temperament combining hunting drive, intelligence, protection and playful friendliness. Hermes Olde English Bulldogges can withstand temperatures up to 90 degrees, and down to 50 degrees below zero. They have the rugged health of working dogs. They are not prone to hip dysplasia or birthing difficulties. Their speed, power and agility are overwhelming, along with being "First to befriend and foremost to defend.They have been known to top out weights of lbs, with a head of 30 inches and more. The OVB is a smooth soft hair dog with torso and chest strongly developed. It has a large head and a thick frame that does not preclude physical activity and liveliness. The muzzle is short and broad but not overly so he can breathe normally and effortlessly. The rear is slightly higher than the shoulders and the body is muscular and symmetrical. The Olde Victorian Bulldogge is loyal, brave and must have a stable temperament. The name "Olde Victorian Bulldogge" is a registered trade mark. The Olde Victorian Bulldogge can only be registered by the Victorian Bulldogge Association and only if all of his ancestors are of authenticated lineage in VBA registery. Like Leavitt, its creation has been copied and the name Victorian Bulldog is unfortunately too often used for hybrids or mutts. Ken Mollet passt away, but his work continues. K Mollett, who originally set out to produce a fitter kennel club bulldog. Steve Barnett's goal in his own words has been "always to produce a national bulldogge, a dog which is brought out into the show or ring with pride, to stand beside your dog knowing that he is an athlete, capable of non-stop energy, worthy of the name gladiator, a true bulldog both in appearance and traditional bulldog temperament. Not a nuisance around animals and other dogs, but with an inbred fire if needed, or called upon, a dog that would grace the arena of any show in any country any were in the world, and be gazed upon with true spirit and real national pride, not shown amongst the fruit and veg in a wheel barrow like the kc dogs of today. During the Tudor period both these bloody sports were at a height of national pastimes, the normal person, although poverty stricken and hungry, seemed to always find the odd half penny to attend the various bear pits that lined the south side of the Thames as early as , mentioned by Shakespeare and other known writers in their day. Henry the VIII had a real strong liking and interest in the early bear pits and bull baiting, appointing the first official master of the game, documented in history Queen Elizabeth had a fascination for the sport of bull and bear baiting. She once visited Kenilworth Castle in , then owned by the Earl of Leicester, here 13 bears were assembled for her amusement, although this was the height of the bull and bear baiting period in old England. A bill to end bull-baiting was defeated as late in history as by forty-five votes, only to be abolished 6 years further on in .A royal sport that has been documented throughout history for close to years, these early dogs were the backbone to the now out-of-shape bulldog of today, the kind that won the hearts and minds of the early writers of the day, that stamped the seal, that brought national pride to the words English bulldogge, our goal has been to re-produce this early broad-muzzled, flat-faced dog of old, but to still keep the traditional shape and character we have all come to love. Written with pride by Steve Barnett. The Renascence Bulldogge should appear very muscular while retaining athletic ability. History: The name "Renascence" not to be confused with the word "Renaissance" means "rebirth". This name is fitting we believe because our Renascence Bulldogge's are supposed to be a recreation or rebirth of the larger more physically functional athletic Bulldogge that existed from about .The name Renascence Bulldogge was picked out and Trademarked by Chadde JoliCoeur to represent the style of bulldog the RBKC is seeking to promote and reproduce to protect the interests of those involved with it. This was done to prevent other people and other registries from attaching and wrongfully applying the RB name to their Bulldogge's and bull breed crosses. Chadde JoliCoeur and Jody Willingham started the RBKC when both had became frustrated at the total lack of uniformity and consistency between the modern alternative bulldogge recreations currently being produced and labeled under the "catch all" name of Olde English Bulldogge. Dogs being labeled under this catch all term can range from the original Leavitt OEB's to that of a large longer muzzled mastiff type dog to that of a bigger version of the modern EB to combinations of every thing in between. Because of the vast physical and health differences between the dogs being labeled under this catch all term and the confusion it creates, Chadde and Jody assembled a dedicated group of breeders with established bloodlines who's breeding program's were all aimed at producing the same style of Bulldogge to be the core breeding foundation of the RB breed. This group devised a standard and a registry to help promote, maintain and improve the athletic functional Bulldogge's they were creating between them. This group devised a standard and a registry to help promote, maintain the breed. This type of dog had the strength, endurance and size to do the job that was set out for it. The original breeders made personality and health in a dog their top priorities, along with keeping a unique Bulldog look. The Aussie Bulldog is a recognized breed within the eye of the general public, but they are not yet registered with the ANKC as a pedigreed breed. All lines of Aussie Bulldogs should come with a breed certificate for the documentation of their ancestry. The public first heard about this breed back in as a result of Keith Nobes asking Pip to write to Burkes Back Yard and inform them of their combined breeding program of The Aussie Bulldog. On their way home from Western Australia, driving from Perth to Toowoomba they Noel and Tina visited Joe and Louise Cauchi in Sydney's western suburbs and viewed 2 litters of pups that were of Aussie Bulldog type, making them approximately 2 weeks old when the program aired on Burkes Back Yard. Both breeding programs were in the early stages, and originally from Greens Lines and Nobes Lines; this was very promptly followed by Cauchi's lines. Since then they have continued to increase the Aussie Bulldog population with approximately 40 or 50 more enthusiastic breeders joining together all three lines of dogs. Nobes lines and Greens lines were developed heavily based on British Bulldog, Bullmastiff, Boxer and a small percentage of Staffy, closely followed in the months to come by the introduction of Joe and Louise Cauchi's dogs based mainly on JD Johnson Line American Bulldogs, which do not have any connection in physical type or temperament to the American Pitbull or the Scott line American Bulldog. Johnson line American Bulldogs are similar in height and head type to the Boxer and Bullmastiff. Their breeding stock now has 5 generations of Aussie Bulldog to Aussie Bulldog in total. The consistency with the Aussie Bulldog is better than a lot of pedigreed breeds in proving this with every planned litter. The Buldogue Cameiros is a dog with a powerful and strong physical constituition indicating strenght and agility. It is a very versatile and well adapted dog. It should have a calm and watching temperament does not bark a lot with an accentuated warrior spirit and loyalty. His temperament should be so obstinate as to overcome limits and so controlled as to always maintain obedience to commands from the shepers. This extremly courageous dog is very loyal to its master and docile with the rest of the family, but reserved with strangers. Its body should be strong with a large and broad head and strong, powerful and protuding jaws. Muzzle should be wide and strong but not so short as in Modern English Bulldogs nor as long as in the Bullmastiff in order to enable it to bite and hold bulls inde- pendently of its weigt. The ideal muzzle lenght is ca. The ears are smalll to medium, rose or button, set hight and wide. The Campeiro Bulldog is usually born with a shorter not reaching beyond the hocks and crooked tail. The Campeiro Budogue's coat is smooth and short. All colors are allowed. Dominance of fawn all variations and brindle red, gray or black , as solid or with white. Completely white dogs have been occasionaly born although not desirable for an outside working dog exosed to intesne sun rays. Full black dogs have not been recorded. The ideal height is between 48 to 58 cm 18,9 to 22,8 inches at the shoulders height withers ; the ideal weight for males and females is between 35 to 45 kg 77,2 and 99,2 lb. The program started back in the s and was intended to rescue the "plantation dog" of southern Georgia that was nearly extinct. This rare, bulldog-type guard dog descends form Buck Lane's dog named Otto. Lana Lou spoke of her granddaddy as always having had an "Otto" about the estate. One Otto was all one needed since these Bulldogs were capable of guard work and woods work. When PaPa Buck was killed by a train in , his Otto proved his undying devotion by constant visitation and guard duty over the grave. Buck Lane's granddaughter, Lana Lou Lane continued the breeding program until she passed away in her sleep on July 20, .Like the Plott Hound, this muscular breed is the creation of one American family, and its survival depends upon the nurturing it receives. Originating from English Bulldog stock, this dog's ancestors functioned as cattle and pig herders, but the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is bred solely for security and companionship. Vivian Lane, took over her business affairs. Later, Mrs. Vivian Lane sold her daughter's kennel. The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is a well-developed, exaggerated bulldog with a broad head and natural drop ears. The prominent muzzle is covered by loose upper lips. The prominent eyes are set well apart. The Alapaha's coat is relatively short and fairly stiff. Preferred colors are blue merle, brown merle, or red merle all trimmed in white or chocolate and white. Also preferred are the glass eyes blue or marble eyes brown and blue mixed in a single eye. The ears and tail are never trimmed or docked. The body is sturdy and very muscular. The well-muscled hips are narrower than the chest. The straight back is as long as the dog is high at the shoulders. This new bulldog breed is not official recognized by the FCI, although the procedure towards recognition by the FCI has been started on 24 januari .The European convention concerning breeding and keeping of pets as well as the Swiss legislation for animal protection Art. Her goal was to create a medium-sized Bulldog which would meet all the requirements asked for by the rules of animal protection for a sound dog which would keep the unique and much esteemed temperament of the English Bulldog. Around that time this new breed were still called "Pickwick Bulldogs Old Type". The results of the cross-breeding were very promising but showed very quickly that the experiment would lead to the creation of a new breed, a breed that would come close to the original type of the bulldog. The decisions and measurements for the creation of a new breed were undertaken in consultations with the FCI representatives of the standard- and scientific commissions. The most widespread bloodline today is the Alternative Old English Bulldog wich is a cross of the different existing above mentioned lines, sometimes with English or American Bulldog blood added. All Rights Reserved. July 13, This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. This cross is a relatively new attempt at creating a dog breed that resembles the working Bulldog from the s instead of looking like shambling frog-like creatures. But what exactly is the purpose of this cross? The Renascence Bulldogge is supposed to be of working-class with a leaner build, less respiratory issues, and more responsiveness in training. So far so good. Of course, every dog that is supposed to work profits from a healthy athletic frame instead of being overly bulky. Respiratory issues are also a huge problem in any Bulldog breed from the French Bulldog to the Bully mixes nowadays. Furthermore, everybody wants a dog who is responsive during training — at least to some degree. What Is a Renascence Bulldogge? Technically speaking, some people consider Bandogs anything from Molosser mixes to more specifically Mastiff Pitbull mixes. Fun fact: The Sorrel Pitbull line is what gives some Renascence Bulldogs the black and tan color, contrary to the assumption of a Doberman or Rottweiler crossed in due to the color. That being said, this is not the exact wording of the real breed standard. Weight and height: Male and female Renascence Bulldogges should weigh between pounds 27 kg kg with a height at the withers of 17 to 22 inches 43 cm cm. A dog with a height on the lower end and weight on the higher end probably ends up resembling the current mostly poorly bred Bulldogs. A Renascence Bulldogge should be a medium-sized dog with a symmetrical body and healthy proportions as well as an athletic frame. Temperament: Friendly and outgoing with familiar people while being reserved or even unfriendly which is apparently not viewed as a defect with strangers. Fearless protector of his family. Body: Neck should be short and nearly as wide as the head. Very broad and muscular shoulders. Front legs may be slightly bowed or straight. Ribs well rounded and chest wide and deep. Back short, slightly roached and strong. Belly well tucked up. Thighs very muscular. Rear legs neither pigeon-toed nor cow-hocked. Fluid movement is of the highest concern. Head: Large in proportion to the body and square. Deeply sunken between the eyes, extending up the forehead. Moderately wrinkled. Jaw muscles large. Lower jaw turned up and protruding. Bite squared, but undershot. Large tusks. Eyes low and wide set. Forehead flat. Muzzle short and broad. Flews semi-pendulous. Ears may be either rose or button and should be set high and wide. Dewlap will have two folds. Who Developed the Renascence Bulldogge? The creation of the Renascence Bulldogge is attributed to Chadde JoliCoeur in the s due to a desire to create a healthier Bulldog by selectively crossbreeding. Was the attempt successful? Nowadays English Bulldogs, stocky American Bulldogs, and even Frenchies need a more diverse and healthier gene pool. This can only be achieved by properly planning pairings because otherwise, the popularity of flat-nosed dogs will drown out any noise created by well-meaning efforts. This breeding program may only serve a select few and we still have a long way at making these Bulldog breeds healthier again but every effort can be a good start if it entails a well-thought-out plan. One thing is for sure: There are many puppy scammers claiming to sell you a Renascence Bulldogge. Some puppy scammers are even so smug as to call their dog just Bulldog and upon your query, the dogs will be whatever you ask the dogs could be. Only buy if you have proof of the ancestors and keep my general puppy breeder advice in mind. Ethical breeders should always advance the breed which means only breeding healthy dogs. Health testing includes hip x-rays to rule out hip dysplasia, eye and heart exams, and — specific to Renascence Bulldogge — a clean medical history in terms of respiratory issues. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation.