poodle puppy grooming

There are some Boxers that appear to be black. However, a solid black coat is not indicative of the breed. So, how can this be? Read more about what markings and patterns can cause a black-like coat. Fawn- What exactly is the color fawn in regard to dogs? This sample is a typical fawn. However, as you will see, fawn is a range of hues. To the right below on mobile is a medium fawn is the standard hue when referring to this terminology. With nice white flash markings on the chest and with black on the muzzle, this Boxer meets color breed standard very well. Brindle - What is brindle? Brindle is not technically a color, it is a pattern. The base is fawn and there is striping. The stripes may be light or dark, and density of the striping can range from thin to thick. Some brindles will look almost fawn and some will appear so dark that they look black. This Boxer shows the standard brindle striping. With white on his chest, paws and ankles and black on the muzzle, this Boxer also meets breed standards perfectly. This is a red fawn Boxer. As you can see, this fawn is darker and deeper than that the common tan fawn; producing a slight shading of red. What a gorgeous coat. This Boxer is a dark brindle. As you can see, with dark brindle the black is over powering the fawn color. The black striping in this pattern is heavy; which would be called a reverse or even a seal. Which simply means that the dog is not officially a solid fawn; he is a mix of colors. Seal - The Boxer dog you see here on the left is Vesta; this color is often referred to as seal. This is a super tight brindle. Siennna, right, is a fawn. Photo courtesy of Nancy Dark Brindle Boxer. Turkish, at 7 years old, photo courtesy of Renata Boxer Dog Flash The white markings on this breed are called "flash". If a Boxer has a moderate amount, one often refers to this as semi-flashy. Those with prominent white on a good portion of the coat are called flashy. No Markings? Not all Boxers have white markings. These are known as plain Boxers, but the term is misleading, as it refers to the genes at work. Read more: Boxers without White Markings Brindle Explanation Brindle one of the colors of this breed is actually a pattern. Stripes running through the coat partial or full is brindling. These are often black hairs, but may be any color that is a darker shade than the hairs that run under it. Depending on the exact color of these brindling pattern stripes, one may refer to a Boxer using one of the following terms listed in order from a very light brindle to a heavy dark striping : Light super light. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.

Kennel club recognition is quite an arduous process and is often only available to purebreds. Poodle Standard colors: apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, gray, red, silver, silver beige, and white. As you probably noticed, Golden Retrievers only come in three colors. This section discusses all 13 Goldendoodle colors for proper identification, including some of their charming pictures. Chocolate Image credit: the. You probably come across one in your neighborhood as you take your morning walk. They got their rich brown color from their dominant Poodle genes, but some of them experience silvering as they mature. Chocolate or brown dogs may become silver beige depending on their genes. The chocolate color in Goldendoodles is recessive , so you need two Goldendoodles that are either pure chocolate or have the chocolate gene in their lines to produce a chocolate Goldendoodle. Among all the colors listed here, apricot is probably the most sought-after because they resemble teddy bears. This is a trait they got from their Poodle parent, who also comes in the same tone. Apricot is also the last registered Poodle color. They are considered the brightest type because their coat simply stands out. This may fade into a lighter shade when they mature. They are often thought to be white Goldendoodles because they are very light in color. Creams have the largest variation when it comes to coat tones and points, so it is possible to see one with dark eyes, nose, and toenails and another with lighter features. Some are even pinkish under their coat. Champagne Champagne Goldendoodles exist, albeit rare. They possess a recessive red gene, which is also diluted to create a pale yellow to a cream tone. The rarity of these dogs makes them quite pricey, but they are still one to consider if you want a teddy-looking dog. However, their eyes, nose, and paw pads remain pure black. There are instances where white is more dominant, but those who are primarily black also exist. Contrary to what most people believe, not all black and white Goldendoodles should be called tuxedo because it pertains to a specific coat pattern. This will be focused on once the tuxedo coat pattern is discussed. When they reach two years old, their gray coloration even lightens to rustic silver, and there will be no more signs that they were once almost black. These dogs are very rare and are only achieved through multiple generations of breeding Goldendoodles. They also have blue noses and paw pads. Their hairs resemble that of an aged man, so you can easily identify them among others. Most silver Goldendoodles show signs that they are indeed silver as they reach 6 to 10 weeks. The tone of their coat has varying degrees, from dark to light silver. Silver Beige Image credit: wheresguthrie. They are originally born chocolate, but because of certain genes, their color cleared, and they become silver beige. What creates the effect that they are sables is the combination of silver to gray hairs and the beige coloration. Some parts of their body appear cream-colored, and this is expected from this variety. Aside from their impressive set of colors, Goldendoodles are even more unique because of their coat patterns. Usually, novice pet owners confuse this with certain coat diseases, but this is typical for this hybrid. The base coat may be one of the 13 basic colors discussed earlier. Usually, these are found on their face, chest, and paws. Often, two colors make up their coat: one is the base, and the second is a lighter shade. There is an exact location for the lighter points — above the eyes, along the sides of the muzzle, across the chest, along the legs, and under the tail. Most Goldendoodles with this coat pattern are developed through multi-generational breeding. This is why parti pups will have distinct appearances from each other. This creates the impression that they are wearing a tuxedo. Classic merle pups usually have some blue or chocolate patchwork or tickings on their body. Meanwhile, watercolor merles which are harder to come across, also have some tickings on their coat. They are distinct from the former because their coat lightens as they age. Most of them have light-base hairs, which makes their stripes stand out. The most popular color for Goldendoodles is also the last color to be recognized for Poodles — apricot. The fame it gained as the latest color for the breed is also reflected in its cross between the Golden Retrievers and Poodles. This is followed by cream and red. Sables are also in demand even though they are not of the same level as the three shades mentioned above. Since these colors are desired by many, expect that they are a bit more expensive than their other cousins. Despite being common and easy to breed, these black pups are not highly sought after. What Is the Rarest Goldendoodle Color? The rarest Goldendoodle colors are those that can only be achieved through multi-generational breeding. This means that in order to produce these dogs, you have to breed together puppies beyond f2 or second generations. These are gray, blue, and silver. Apart from these colors, two patterns are found to be rare. They are the phantom and parti Goldendoodle. Similar to the gray, blue, and silver dogs, they can only be achieved through multi-generational breeding. The color of every dog is a product of its two main pigments, eumelanin and pheomelanin. Eumelanin is black in default, but it also produces certain diluted colors due to the genes inherited by the dog. The second pigment, which is pheomelanin, is primarily red, but it can become apricot, cream, tan, and other similar shades when altered by dilution genes. For a breeder to produce a certain Goldendoodle color, the parents must undergo DNA testing to determine whether they can produce the desired color for the litter. Some others carry a recessive gene that makes them exhibit a very different color from their parents. There are some myths that aim to taint the reputation of some varieties but have no scientific basis. For instance, the assumption that black Goldendoodles are aggressive simply because they are black colored. Make sure to look for pertinent data first before becoming influenced by mere opinions on the color and the breed of dogs. In fact, a friend of mine who has two male Goldendoodles of different colors, a blue three-year-old, and an apricot 2-year-old, has observed that the two have very similar temperaments. Both are affectionate and love being with him all the time. But if we are to consider the study of the University of Sydney, which investigated the life expectancy of dogs according to their colors, chocolate Goldendoodles may be prone to ear infections and various skin diseases. Merles are also observed to be predisposed to deafness, blindness, skin sensitivity, and skin cancer, especially when the two parents used to breed the puppy both carry the merle gene. These are extreme issues, so you better consider this in buying your pet. As is with other crosses and purebreds, Goldendoodles also experience subtle color changes as they mature. This phenomenon is brought about by their Poodle lineage. Mostly, red and its varieties lighten when they reach two years of age. But other colors may also undergo lightening through a process called silvering or dilution. This is more prevalent in black and chocolate puppies who turn out blue, silver, or silver beige, depending on their genes. However, this may not be true for all Goldendoodle puppies. Some may not have any genes that will lighten their colors and will retain their rich color all the way to adulthood. Bean Licorice Looking for popular black Goldendoodle names? Life is always a party when you have a Goldendoodle! Just like humans, our furry pals need their nails trimmed regularly. He or she will remember and may fear future nail trims. Keep it positive with lots of happy talk and praise. This will help your puppy get comfortable having the paws touched. Also, if your black Goldendoodle puppy has dark toenails, never fear! There are many resources to help you learn how to trim dark toenails. I took an online course on cutting black dog nails. Photographing a black Goldendoodle can be a bit tricky. Black Goldendoodles can look super stunning when the lighting is right. But if not, the coat color, texture, and highlights can all blend together. This makes black fur one of the harder dog coat colors to capture with a camera. Especially for our black Goldendoodles with furry faces, capturing the happy glint in their eyes can be challenging. One hack is to use natural lighting outdoor lighting when the sun is lower in the sky. Midday sun casts particularly harsh shadows, so choose morning or evening sun. Tips like these can help you quickly learn how to take cute photos of your dog. Natural lighting brings out the many hues of the black coat color .Some black Goldendoodles become therapy dogs. Black Goldendoodles—like all Goldendoodles—may have the demeanor to become therapy dogs. Goldendoodles are working in schools, nursing homes, hospitals, and even dentists offices providing comfort and companionship to humans. Goldendoodle health and temperament trumps everything else. Choosing a reputable Doodle breeder who cares about the future of the Goldendoodle breed and who places the upmost importance on temperament and good health is primary. Unfortunately, unscrupulous breeders will breed without regard to health and genetics, among other things. Or adopt from a reputable shelter. After all, we want our puppies to grow into healthy adults and then become senior Goldendoodles living happily along beside us. Goldendoodles—no matter the coat color—tend to have happy-go-lucky, friendly personalities that make them suitable for most families. With the proper amount of love, attention, and care, they will fill your heart and home with love. Enjoy tail wagging happiness with your pupper Now that you know that Goldendoodles can have black coat colors and many other amazing qualities, you may be weighing all the Goldendoodle pros and cons before you bring a Muppet dog into your pack. No matter what dog you choose, we wish you endless love and tail waggy happiness together. Thanks for stopping by and joining us as we live the Goldendoodle lifestyle with our lovable, comical Doodle dogs. Black Goldendoodle April 27, The black Goldendoodle is a specific kind of Goldendoodle. Being the most popular Doodle mix in the US, the demand for specific colors of these dogs has grown. While they nearly always appear to be brown or cream-colored , the more rare black Goldendoodle has been become increasingly sought-after. Not to be confused with the similar-looking black Labradoodle! Due to color genetics it is still difficult to find these dogs. Today we want to look at the black Goldendoodle in detail and evaluate him as a pet and companion animal. If you need help deciding which Doodle is right for you, take our Doodle quiz to find out! Table of Contents Origin A traditional cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle is nearly always some shade of brown, red or cream. If both parents carry a gene that creates a black coat color however, black Goldendoodle puppies can be born. These are very rare and if you have your heart set on a black Goldendoodle, you will need to do some research to find the right puppy. Black Goldendoodles are usually all-black with little or no white markings. They do not occur in spotted black-and-white patterns such as in the Parti Poodle. When looking for your puppy, see if the parents have produced black Goldendoodles before. If so, they will carry the genes necessary for having such pups and your chances of getting a black puppy are higher. Note that there is never a guarantee — genetics can be surprising and two parents could even have a first litter consisting only of black Goldendoodles, and another with only brown puppies! Are black Goldendoodles rare? As mentioned above — yes, they are very rare! There is an increase chance to get a black Goldendoodle if they are bred in the second or third generation. If a black Goldendoodle parent is crossed with a black Poodle, the offspring will nearly always be all black. This type of breeding will increase certain desired traits. A popular cross like this are also f1b Mini Goldendoodles. Below you can see a diagram of how color prevalence chan change in the generations: Are black Goldendoodles popular? Black Goldendoodles are very popular and sought-after — in fact, the demand for them is much higher than the amount of puppies that are born. Of course, the wait will be worth it: These dogs are incredibly smart, loyal and good-looking. However, they are not all goofy and cute: Goldendoodles are the offspring of working dogs and as such will require daily exercise, training and enrichment. It is crucial that you have plenty of puzzle toys for your Goldendoodle , take him on walks daily and provide adequate training for him. Do black Goldendoodles shed? Most Doodle mixes shed either not at all or considerably less than a double-coated dog. However, especially with a mixed breed it is impossible to guarantee a certain coat type. If you are looking for a dog that sheds very little because you do not like to have dog hair on your clothes, furniture and around your house — a black Goldendoodle fits the bill. If however you need a truly hypoallergenic dog that will not shed at all or set off allergies, a these dogs may or may not work. If there is any health concern it is always advisable to spend some time around other Doodles at first and see if they cause any allergic response. Any Poodle mix coat will grow very long and has the tendency to form mats and dreadlocks quickly. You can either buy some clippers and groom your dog at home or take him to a local groomer. It goes without saying that this will be tied to daily brushing and monthly baths. Do not let it mat or your dog will suffer from painful skin sores! How big will my dog get? In general, you can expect an adult size of 20 to 24 inches and a weight of 50 to 90 pounds. This is a big range and where exactly your dog falls into it will depend on — again! If the parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles have been on the small side, expect a smaller adult dog. If the family of your black Goldendoodle has been large, yours is likely to be tall as well. You can find out how large exactly your dog will become with our Goldendoodle growth chart calculator : How much is a black Goldendoodle? Because the color genetics can be difficult to reproduce and breeders cannot guarantee that a certain number of black pups will be born, the ones that are might be especially expensive. Especially if you are additionally looking for a small dog, such as a black Mini Goldendoodle , prepare to pay a high price for your pup. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day. Black For even more variety, there are patterns of these colors found in the Goldendoodle, including parti, merle, phantom, and brindle. Merle is a varied coat pattern. While a beautiful color, the merle gene can cause blindness and deafness if two parents carrying the merle gene are bred together, so merles should be bred only by very knowledgeable breeders who test for the merle gene and understand the genetics involved. Brindle patterns appear as stripes, the color and the width vary with each dog. With careful breeding, breeders can now produce litters with predictable coat types and shedding propensities. One of the things that many people find attractive about the Goldendoodle is the low shedding and hypo-allergenic qualities of the coat, and the adorable ragamuffin look of the Goldendoodle. No longer do you need to rely on the generation of a Goldendoodle to determine appearance or shedding intensity! This is why some Labradoodles have short coats in the early generations, whereas Goldendoodles do not. Curl KRT71 gene Goldendoodles can be curly, wavy, or straight. They inherit their number of curl genes from their parents. If a breeder tests the parent dogs for the curl gene, they can better predict the appearance of their puppies. Even more interestingly, genetic technology has taught us that furnishings are what confer the low- to non-shedding coats on our Goldendoodles that help make them such optimal family dogs. Based on Mendelian genetics, this educated guess was often just that—a guess about the odds. This is when the use of notations like F1 and F1b came about and what has caused many people to think they need to know the generation to guess about furnishings. In the recent past, new commercially available tests have been developed that allow us to genetically test our parent dogs for furnishing genes and other coat genes as well, such as curl so we can better predict coat type in puppies. This is much, much more accurate and dependable than the old Mendelian filial F1, F1b, etc. The gene responsible for furnishings is dominant; so by testing the parent dogs DNA, it can be determined if a breed pair will produce puppies that all have furnishings, or if there will be some puppies with an incorrect or Golden Retriever like coat. Dogs with one copy of the furnishings gene Ff or F IC are lower shedding than dogs without furnishings. Dogs with two copies of furnishing genes FF are typically non-shedding. If you have a family with allergies, a Goldendoodle with an incorrect coat is not the best match for you. Coat variation in the domestic dog is governed by variants in three genes. J Hered. The Shedding gene is still relevant for shedding for NON-furnished dogs short facial hair , but have no impact for shedding for our furnished Goldendoodles. Even a Goldendoodle with two furnishings genes does not guarantee that you will not be allergic to a particular dog. Allergies are very complex and shedding is just one of the components that factor in the equation. Consider that dander, saliva, proteins, and allergens carried on the dogs coat, etc. As you can see, there is a lot of science that goes into the selection of breeding mates to produce the ideal Goldendoodle. The Goldendoodle Association supports its Member breeders by providing access to the latest research and guidance from experts in fields such as breed development, canine reproduction, and puppy development. This is a widget ready area. Add some and they will appear here. For all other questions: Email: admin goldendoodleassociation. Your membership helps to fund research and development regarding health, genetics, puppy development, and more. Member Application. There are multiple possible combinations in the canine world. The coat color your pup ends up with depends on the mix of dominant and recessive genes that they receive from both parent dogs and how these genes interact. Golden Retriever Colors According to American Kennel Club standards, Golden Retrievers come in three distinct shades: dark golden, golden and light golden. Their coats are a single color all over with no apparent markings. Poodle Colors Poodles , on the other hand, can come in ten different solid colors: apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, gray, red, silver, silver beige, and white. Poodles also bring patterns into the mix. See Also: Click the image The Science Bit Without going into too much detail, the coat color of every single dog on the planet is a product of two main pigments: eumelanin responsible for shades of black and pheomelanin which covers shades of red and yellow. The genes that a dog gets determines how much of each of these are produced, as well as how they might be diluted or mixed with white the complete absence of pigment. For more details on how this all plays out, check out this handy description by VCA Hospitals. Each puppy inherits one set of color genes known as alleles from their mother dog and one set from their father dog — so they end up with two in total. This all depends on whether the alleles are dominant or recessive, and some are more or less dominant than others. Predicting Goldendoodle Colors So, to get back to Goldendoodles…. The Poodle colors are more likely to come through. To be golden, the puppy would need to inherit two recessive golden alleles — one from each parent. The puppy will most likely be a similar color to their Poodle parent. Yet this obviously only applies to first-generation Goldendoodles. With later-generation dogs, things get even more complicated as there are more Poodle genes to contend with. For instance, you may feel confident that with two black dogs you will get black puppies, right? After all, black is dominant. Well, as covered above, dogs inherit two alleles, and even though the dominant one is expressed, a recessive one could be passed along to their offspring. If both parents have recessive golden color alleles and both pass these along, then you could very well end up with a golden puppy from two black parents! What we can do is take an educated guess based on what we know and what we have observed about how the genes that determine coat color interact. Breeders may also opt to have their dogs tested to see which alleles they carry. This can make any coat-color guestimations that much more accurate. All in all, with those crazy, varied Poodle genes, Goldendoodles can come in pretty much every color that a Poodle comes in — and weirdly more besides. Unlike with Poodles, pedigree standards do not govern the breeding of Doodles. So, we are starting to see an array of mixes and patterns, many of which we have detailed below. Their coloring is typically the result of a mutation in the gene that would otherwise produce a black coat. These mutated genes are recessive, so the puppy would need to inherit one from each parent to end up this color. While chocolate Goldendoodles are often born quite dark — sometimes even black, they tend to fade a fair bit as they age. This process can begin as early as six weeks and will be most noticeable at this time on their muzzle and between their paw pads. Apricot Goldendoodles A variation on red, an apricot coat is one of the most sought-after for a Goldendoodle. It gives pups the appearance of a cute teddy bear even more so than their hair and adorable features already do. However, as this color is created by a recessive gene, the puppy must inherit it from both parents. Photo used with permission. Credit: Taurean DuHart Photo used with permission. Credit: doodlikekylo This coat color typically starts off a little darker and lightens over time. Depending on the interplay of genes, it can lighten quite considerably. For this reason, apricot Goldies may sometimes be confused with cream or tan ones. They will almost always have black eyes, eye rims, noses, and toenails, all inherited from the Poodle. Cream Goldendoodles Again, from the red line, cream Goldendoodles are frequently confused with white ones because of how light their coat can get — but they are very definitely not the same. These dogs are often used for breeding dogs with multi-colored coats, such as merle or parti Goldendoodles covered later. Credit: Murphywestslopedoodle Cream Goldies inherit their colors from both parents — a touch of gold to a little white. This is one of the reasons that they have the most extensive variation of coat tones and points with either dark or pinkish noses and paw pads, and light or dark eyes. Champagne Goldendoodles are so named for the yellowish tinge to their light, beautiful coats. These dogs have a recessive red gene that is diluted into this stunning pale yellow tone. Credit: Pattie Martin In some cases, it might be a little tricky to tell the difference between a cream Goldie and a champagne one. Champagnes tend to have a touch more color. Puppies may be born with a darker golden coat which lightens as they age. Secondly, the gene that creates a black coat is recessive, meaning that black coats are only likely in second and third-generation dogs. Finally, the Poodle fading gene can be quite active in these pups, silvering them down to grey, blue, or, naturally, silver once they are past their puppy years. Credit: sweetpupneo Black and White Goldendoodles While most black Goldendoodles are a single color, occasionally, you will also come across ones with white markings. In some cases, white may even be the more dominant color with just a touch of black. As with other parti and patterned coats, black and white Goldies are most often found in later generations. Black and white Doodles may also be referred to as tuxedo, parti, merle, phantom, and brindle. Gray Goldendoodles Not surprisingly, Gray is derived from the black line and inherited from the Poodle side of the Golden Retriever-Poodle combination. This is another rare shade in these types of dogs and only really occurs with multigenerational breeding. These Goldies are usually born very dark in color and start to show as gray after around six weeks. By the time these dogs hit two years of age, they will have faded into their adult hue. However, color holding can occur around the face and ears giving a cute two-tone effect. Blue Goldendoodles At first glance, blue Goldendoodles can look very similar to gray ones. However, they are generally a darker, more steely shade, and their coat can have both darker and lighter patches. This color is super rare, being recessive. It takes multiple generations of Goldendoodle breeding to achieve. Like gray Doods, blues are born dark and fade out across the first two years of their lives. Their coats may even continue to clear as they age, but a select few will remain truly blue. Again this color is tricky to predict. You never really know what you are going to get when you adopt a black Goldie. Silver Goldendoodles A lighter version of blue or gray Goldies, silvers are also born a much darker color and just keep on fading. You might see signs that a pup will be silver from somewhere around six to ten weeks, where you can start to spot lighter roots. You will likely also find white or silver hairs between their toes. The shift from black to silver is probably the most dramatic of any of the Doodle coat changes. Your pup will look like an entirely different dog when it is done. For this reason silvers are often mistaken for grays early on in life. Silver Beige Goldendoodles Unlike regular silvers, silver beige Goldendoodles are born dark brown. However, just like regular silvers, they lighten as they age. The lighter the final color, the earlier the puppy will start clearing — anywhere between six to twelve weeks. Silver beiges can sometimes be mistaken for sables as they start to fade. The combination of colors in their coat gives this effect. Tan Goldendoodles Tan Goldies get their coloring from their Retriever parent. Just as with apricot and cream dogs, tan occurs because of a dilution in the red pigment pheomelanin. This color sits somewhere between these other two more popular and more common ones. Often these dogs have shades of light apricot, cream, and white mixed in with their coat. Although from a distance, they do appear a single uniform shade. White Goldendoodles Although they look distinctly white from a distance compared with their warmer-toned cream counterparts , white Doods are often not white all over. They have various shades of cream mixed in throughout their coat. Unlike cream, white is not the result of fading, so white puppies will actually be born white and retain this color all through their lives. While these dogs look either brown or black at birth, even at this early time, the root of the hair is much lighter than the tip. Sable Goldendoodles tend to hold onto their dark color around the face and ears. The rest of their coat settles into more of a cream or tan shade, although always with darker tips and lighter roots. This makes for a really unique-looking dog! Abstract Goldendoodles Dogs with abstract coats are mostly one single color be it any of the ones outlined above with touches of another color. These are usually found on their face and around their chest and paws. Such dogs are also referred to as mismarked or chrome. Phantom Goldendoodles Super hard-to-find phantom Goldendoodles comprise two colors — a base shade solid chocolate or solid black and a lighter one. The lighter points are usually to be found around the eyes, muzzle, and legs. Most Phantom Goldendoodles are commonly black and tan, but this can vary, e. Parti Goldendoodles Dogs with parti coats are two distinct colors, with the second one usually being white. To be considered a parti rather than an abstract Doodle, the pup needs to have a color breakdown rather than simply a few highlights. You can find parti hounds in every color covered above, but no two look the same. As mentioned above, the parti gene is a recessive one, and so the Goldie would need two for them to be expressed. However, there are plenty of parti Poodles about. Tuxedo Goldendoodles Tuxedo Goldendoodles are another two-color mix. Any of the above colors are combined with white. However, the white is concentrated around the chest and front legs. This gives the pup the appearance of wearing a tuxedo hence the name. As you can imagine, these pooches are pretty popular because of their distinctive appearance — especially when in black and white. Their markings are apparent from birth. Although, naturally, the white splotches often begin small and get more prominent as the dog matures. Merle Goldendoodles Merle Goldendoodles are another extremely uncommon type. Watercolor merles, which are harder to find, also have tickings, but their coat lightens with age. Merle coats are tricky for breeders to work with as the gene that causes this pattern is also linked to health issues such as deafness and blindness. So careful breeding by someone very knowledgeable about canine genetics is needed. This unique pattern of dark and light coat is arranged in such a way as to make the dog look like it has tiger stripes. While the width and color of these stripes vary from dog to dog, in Goldendoodles, it usually takes the form of a black or brown base coat with lighter colored stripes. Tri-Colored Goldendoodles With the increasing amount of multigenerational Goldies, color options are becoming ever more varied. However, it is very usual in other types like Bernedoodles from the Bernese Mountain Dog. They usually have a little of another breed in them — one that does carry the tri-color gene. To date, no research has demonstrated a link between color and behavior. Rumors that say differently can actually be quite harmful. For instance, some people equate black dogs with higher aggression levels. This is simply not true. On the other hand, there are a few studies that link specific colors with certain health conditions. For instance, the merle gene as outlined above can lead to certain conditions such as deafness and blindness. These days, most breeders focus on breeding extremely healthy puppies over ones of a particular color or pattern type. The parent dogs are thoroughly tested for genetic conditions that they otherwise might pass down to their puppies. In all honesty, with no coat color being better than any other in terms of health and behavior, your choice of Goldendoodle should be based on health and temperament over looks. However, naturally, people have different preferences about these things. So, once you have ascertained that the puppies you are checking out are all good, you can choose the one that looks best to you. Usually, the intensity is reduced, and black dogs switch to gray or silver while red ones dull down to apricot or cream. The apricot Goldendoodle is the most popular color choice, with cream being second and red in third place. More popular colors usually translate into more expensive. Will my Goldendoodle change color? Most Goldendoodles are born with dark coat colors that change, fade, or silver to a lighter color with age, depending on their inherited genes. This is known as clearing and generally occurs within the first two years. The muzzles and ears of a Goldendoodle tend to hold more of the original colors as other parts change. What color Goldendoodle is best? There is no specific color of Goldendoodle that is best. The one that you opt for will be based on what you like. While red tones are pretty popular among the Doodle-fan crowd, some opt for dogs with rarer colors like black, blue, and silver. Others want different and distinct patterns that only come with multigenerational breeding. While color is one of the first things people notice about puppies, it should be one of the least important factors to base an adoption decision on. When purchasing a puppy, you want to ensure that they are healthy and have the right temperament — family-friendly, active, playful, etc. Only then should you start to consider color. No matter which Goldendoodle you decide is right for you, it will no doubt be love at first sight. Not just because of their adorable appearance, but because they make excellent, loving companions. You will never regret your choice to adopt one. What color of Goldendoodle is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Virginia? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Virginia work? You might have noticed that the prices from Virginia French Bulldog breeders tend to be a little higher than they would be with other breeds. The reason for this is that breeders of Frenchies have to spend more money to raise these dogs due to their unique skeletal structure. The females have to have C-sections in order to deliver their litters safely, leading to higher expenses for both breeders and buyers. What are some health issues associated with Frenchies? French Bulldogs for sale in Virginia can live for 14 years or more in some cases, but they are also at risk of several health issues. Their snub noses make it hard to breathe, so they can snore and wheeze quite a lot, and they often develop bone and joint issues too. Be sure to buy your Virginia French Bulldog puppy for sale from a trusted breeder to have the best chance of a happy, healthy dog. How do you vet businesses selling Frenchies? Trying to find the best French Bulldog breeders Virginia can feel like quite a challenge, and it can be hard for a typical person to tell breeders and businesses apart from one another. At Uptown, we have lots of experience when it comes to finding top tier breeders, and we've developed one of the strictest screening processes around to help our users find French Bulldog puppies Virginia from only the best sellers. How does Uptown work for finding a Frenchie pup? Ready to begin your journey to find French Bulldog puppies for sale in Virginia? It all starts here, and the first step is to browse through the various pups that are currently available from our listed breeders and businesses. Speak with the sellers to learn more about any pups that catch your eye and then make arrangements to bring one home. It's as simple as that. Can I find the cheapest Frenchies here? If you're trying to find the cheapest possible French Bulldog for sale Virginia, we urge you to reconsider. There are many scammers and bad breeders out there who sell their pups at super low prices, tricking people into buying unhealthy, socially difficult dogs and then having to spend way more money later on for vet bills and socialization training. You'll find fair, competitively priced pups on Uptown. Why shouldn't I buy my dog from a shelter instead? For example, if you're looking for a specific breed, like French Bulldogs for sale Virginia, you might not be able to find the right pup at local rescue centers. How do I know that my French Bulldog will be healthy? The vetted breeders and businesses of the Uptown Network always carry our nose-to-tail veterinary checks of their French Bulldog puppies in Virginia, providing you with full health reports and giving you all the details you need to know. This way, when you buy a Virginia French Bulldog for sale from one of our featured sellers, you won't have to worry about any hidden health problems Is it enough to walk my Frenchie, or do they need more exercise? French Bulldog puppies for sale Virginia aren't the most energetic dogs around, and they can get by with a single moderate-length walk each day, but they still need regular playtime and other forms of physical and mental stimulation in order to lead happy, fulfilling lives. If a French Bulldog for sale in Virginia doesn't get enough exercise, it might start gaining weight and developing health issues. How do I know I can trust Uptown? Looking for a French Bulldog Virginia online can feel quite intimidating, and it's hard to know which sites you can trust. At Uptown, we strive on a daily basis to be your No. What type of dog is a French Bulldog? Virginia French Bulldogs for sale are all unique, with their own little quirks and personality traits, but most Frenchies tend to be very fun, affectionate, inquisitive animals that like to spend time with people of all ages. They're super friendly and like to learn new things too, so can be quite active around the home, but also appreciate a good nap and lots of cuddles on their best friend's lap.

Our Frenchie Claude loves getting out and about, so we go for walks twice a day. When we first started leash training, he was extremely stubborn and sometimes would even refuse to walk at all. On other times he would pull and act so manic that we struggled to control him. However, once we had learned how to leash train our French Bulldog life got a lot more enjoyable. I actually looked forward to going to the park rather than viewing our walks with trepidation. French Bulldog puppy leash training I am going to assume you already have a leash or harness. Some owners prefer harnesses that fit around the body, others a collar and leash combination. With the guide below, the aim is to understand how to leash train a stubborn French Bulldog from a puppy so that he will follow you or walk by your side at all times. He should not be refusing to walk or pulling you in all sorts of different directions. And before you start; patience, repetition, and consistency are the three key elements to leash training your Frenchie. Get your Frenchie puppy used to the leash indoors The first aspect of leash training is getting your Frenchie puppy used to having a collar or harness on. Handy Hint: If your Frenchie is frightened and starts to get anxious, stop the leash training immediately. A scared dog is very hard to train, so for leave it for a couple of hours. Your job here is to use distraction and praise to get them used to wearing it. We found that the best way was to put the leash and collar on Claude and then play with him in the house. This lets him associate having a leash on as being a positive and fun thing to do. As he walks towards you, reward him with a treat. Pick the right time for your first outdoor leash walk As with any dog training, sometimes the timing is key. A Frenchie who is excited and full of energy is going to be far harder to train. But it is a delicate balancing act, because conversely, a tired-out puppy will also be hard to train. You need to take the middle ground, and I recommend you play a quick game with your Frenchie before taking them for their first walk outdoors. A game of indoor fetch is a great way to tire a high energy dog out, and help them focus later on the leash walk. Try leash training outdoors for the first time Outdoors will be far more challenging mainly due to there being plenty of distractions. The aim is to get your French Bulldog puppy paying you constant attention when they are on the leash. Do the same thing as you did indoors. To keep them focussed on you only, make constant direction changes with verbal commands and treats. This can include zig zagging, or stopping, turning, and heading back in the other direction. Keep it random and keep it interesting. Make things fun when they get stubborn French Bulldogs love to play see what I mean here and you can use this in your leash training to great effect. If your French Bulldog puppy gets difficult on the leash, wants to go in different direction, or completely refuses to walk, then make things fun. The easiest way to do this is to start acting excitable; quicken your step, run a little, wave your arms, make silly noises — this will intrigue your stubborn Frenchie and in most cases they will follow you to see what the fuss is all about. Dealing with scary noises including cars One of the most important factors in leash training is getting your Frenchie used to the scary sights, sounds, and smells of the great outdoors. Leash training is a great opportunity to expose your French Bulldog to things it needs to get used to. The same goes for other dogs, wildlife, and loud noises. Claude is now fully leash trained and loves his walks. One of the biggest things we had to get Claude used to was cars driving past us. Our Frenchie would cower and be scared. It was the repetition, reassurance, reward, and continual exposure to traffic noise that got him over this fear — it did take 3 months though for him to be completely at ease with road traffic noise. Handy Hint: Find out why I recommend you use Frenchie harnesses and not collars particularly when training young Frenchie puppies. It takes time and patience. Here are two common problems with a suggested solution. Pulling on the leash For the first 12 months of taking Claude for walks he was a huge puller. Frenchies are excitable, and ours would pull because he knew he was going to be off the leash at the park once we got to our destination. Handy Hint: Read my views on whether Frenchies are good to walk without a leash and what you need to be careful of before doing so. It took some time for it to stop and also coincided with him maturing from puppy to adult. During the first year of leash training, I would always stand dead still as soon as he started pulling. Once I came to a stop, I would call him back to me, get him to sit, and reward him with a treat. I would then start walking again. If he started pulling, I would repeat the process. Over time our Frenchie learned not to pull. Chewing on the leash Almost every puppy will chew on the leash. This could not be further from the truth! Frenchies can develop bad habits at any age, and the older they do, the harder those habits are to shift! But a word of warning; French Bulldog leash training is much harder than people think. When you have a young puppy, they grow very quickly. They will get quicker and stronger as they get older meaning they will end up walking a lot faster than you. It could take a couple of months to get it right, but it will be worthwhile. You might also like… If you like this guide on how to teach a French Bulldog to walk on a leash you might also be in interested in the following guides:. Check Price 3. They are popular among Frenchie parents due to their ease of use and the fact that French Bulldogs usually adjust to them easily. French Bulldogs can wear a variety of harnesses to ensure their comfort and safety Features to Consider When Choosing a French Bulldog Harness Keeping your Frenchie safe and comfortable during walks and other activities is easy with the right French Bulldog harness. Get the wrong one, and you risk your dog slipping out or not wanting to wear it. Here are things to look out for when shopping for French Bulldog harnesses to get one that is perfect for your dog: 1. Materials The material used in making a harness determines how comfortable your dog will feel when wearing it. Therefore, you should only consider French Bulldog harnesses made with high-quality materials like cotton, nylon, and leather. You may need to try different materials to find the most comfortable one for your dog. Breathability Due to the structure of their flat face, Frenchies are more susceptible to breathing problems and, by extension, overheating than other dog breeds. When choosing the best harness for your French Bulldog, ensure that you opt for one that allows plenty of ventilation. This eliminates the risk of your dog suffering a heatstroke. Therefore, consider getting a harness with plenty of padding, especially around the chest and belly, to provide your dog extra comfort and safety. Adequate padding helps prevent rubbing or digging into the skin, reducing the risk of injuries and discomfort while wearing the harness. Attachment points Harnesses come with the leash attachment point on the front, back, or both. When choosing the best French Bulldog harness, you should note where its leash attachment points are, as that determines how much control you will have over your dog when walking them. Harnesses with front leash attachment offer more control than harnesses with back leash attachment. Reflective features This is optional but highly recommended if you intend to walk your Frenchie at night. Harnesses with reflective features, such as reflective strips or stitching, help to make your dog visible to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians in low-light conditions, reducing the risk of accidents. Finding the Right Fit for Your French Bulldog Before purchasing a French Bulldog harness, it is important to measure them first to ensure you get one that fits them correctly. Use a measuring tape Weight-based sizing can be misleading when shopping for the perfectly fitted French Bulldog harness. Although it can provide a general indication, it is not always accurate. Be sure to note the width of the chest at its widest point, typically an inch or two away from the armpits. If your Frenchie is a puppy, you can add an extra 3 inches to the recorded chest dimensions to allow room for growth. Weigh them Weighing your Frenchie is another step in selecting the perfect harness size. While it can be challenging to make them stand still, an easier way to do it is by carrying your dog and stepping onto the scales to obtain your combined weight. After taking note of the combined weight, place the dog back down and weigh yourself alone. Selecting the perfect harness for your Frenchie becomes much easier if you accurately measure their chest, neck, and weight. The tutorial video above provides a good visual guide on how to measure your pup for a harness. For the neck, measure around the widest part, usually right below where the collar sits. For the chest, measure around the broadest part, which is typically right behind the front legs. Always remember to check the fit regularly as your French Bulldog puppy grows, adjusting the harness or upgrading to a larger size when needed. Thus, a harness with a secure buckle system is a must to prevent any possible escape attempts. However, it is an essential part of their overall training and care. For this process to be as smooth as possible, there are a few tips that you can follow: 1. Gradual introduction Some French Bulldogs might find harnesses scary and may not want to have anything to do with them. If your Frenchie is one such dog, you can help them get comfortable by slowly introducing them to the harness. Allow them to sniff and inspect the harness before putting it on them. Positive reinforcement Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective tools to teach French Bulldogs acceptable behaviors. Be sure to reward your Frenchie with treats, praise, and attention when they show interest or interact with the harness. Gradually work towards putting the harness on them and reward them for wearing it without fuss. Patience and persistence Your Frenchie may not be excited about wearing a harness and could even throw a fit. However, this should not make you frustrated or cause you to give up on their training. Instead, take small steps each day and continue to reinforce positive behavior. This is important because if your dog experiences pain whenever they wear it, they would naturally resist wearing harnesses. You must also inspect the harness for damages and replace it if necessary. Finding the ideal harness for a French Bulldog puppy is slightly different than choosing one for an adult Frenchie. Given their smaller size and growing nature, harnesses for French Bulldog puppies should have some key attributes. First, opt for a harness that has a fully adjustable chest and neck area. This adaptability not only ensures that the harness fits your pup perfectly but also accommodates their rapid growth. Second, a good puppy harness should be lightweight and soft on the skin to avoid any unnecessary discomfort or chafing. For French Bulldog puppies, a harness with a broad chest piece is beneficial. June 17, No comments Is your French Bulldog pulling your arm off whenever you go for a walk? You might need some help to train this behavior out of them. Do French Bulldogs pull? Pulling on the leash is a common behavior in French Bulldogs. It can also cause accidents if your French Bulldog is lunging at things like cars or other animals along the road. Another bad thing about pulling is that it undermines your authority. Poor leash discipline can lead to poor discipline overall as your Frenchie realizes that they can bark , growl, pull, and ignore your commands without consequence. Training in general can be difficult for them, and this includes leash training. Why do French Bulldogs pull on the leash? This is the most common reason for leash pulling, especially in young puppies. Despite what you might have heard about the breed, French Bulldogs can be quite energetic, and they need regular exercise to keep them healthy. Does the pulling get worse when they see other dogs? Is it accompanied by barking, growling, lunging, or just excessively forceful attempts to sniff at the other pooch? In this case, the pulling might be a symptom of a bigger aggression or socialization problem. What triggers it? How do you respond to it? Is your Frenchie in any particular mood when it happens? Only by getting to the bottom of the problem can you figure out a proper solution for it. How do I stop my French Bulldog from pulling? To stop your French Bulldog from pulling, you might have to experiment with different methods. Generally speaking, however, here are some of the recommended methods to stop leash pulling: Take more walks. Invest in a no-pull harness. Stop walking whenever they pull. This can be helpful for dogs with aggression problems or those who are easily distracted by outside stimuli. Offer treats as positive reinforcement. Good luck! Padded Harnesses Types of French Bulldog Harnesses The market is full of different types of dog harnesses, each with its unique features, benefits, and limitations. Finding french bulldog harnesses can be tricky. Frenchie owners may find it tricky to pick the right harness. Here are some options! However, they might not be the best option for dogs with short snouts or those prone to tracheal issues. No Pull Harness Back Clip Harnesses Back clip harnesses have the ring leash attachment on the back and offer comfortable movement for the dog, reducing the chances of getting tangled. Back Clip French bulldog Harnesses Step In Harness Dual Clip Harnesses These offer the flexibility of both front and back ring leash attachment points, suitable for dogs at different stages of their training. Again, the Ruffwear front range harness is a dual clip harness. Most french bulldog harnesses made these days are dual clip harnesses. They are ideal for dogs that are nervous about things going over their head. Also Ideal for breeds prone to ivdd, focusing pressure more on the chest than the neck. Frenchie Friends Brand Step In Harness Padded Harnesses Padded harnesses provide additional comfort, especially for dogs with short hair or sensitive skin. Again with the Ruffwear! They really do tick all the boxes in terms of quality and features. Ruffwear Front Range Harness Introduction to French Bulldog Harnesses Dog harnesses are an essential item for dog owners worldwide, improving control and safety during walks while reducing the risk of injury to your furry friend. But with a plethora of options available, choosing the right harness can be a challenging task. A great french bulldog harness is necessary for Adult Frenchie to avoid damaging the spine, causing ivdd. Frenchie Brand Dog Harness Factors to Consider when Choosing a French Bulldog Harness Several factors play a crucial role in choosing the perfect french bulldog harness for your canine companion. Reflective strips for visibility can also be a valuable addition. Pros and Cons of Harnesses Front Clip Harnesses These days all french bulldog harnesses have both front and back clips. This feature is particularly beneficial for dogs that tend to pull on the leash. Reduces pulling: When a dog pulls, the front clip will cause them to turn around towards you, discouraging the pulling behavior. Not suitable for short-snouted dog breeds: Dog Breeds such as pugs and french bulldogs can have issues with front clip harnesses as the pressure may be too close to their throat, causing breathing difficulties. Back Clip Harnesses Again, now most french bulldog harnesses have both front and back clips. Easy to clip your French bulldogs into car seats, upping the safety factor Cons: Less control: If your french bulldogs are pullers, a back-clip harness might not be the best option as it provides less control than a front-clip one. Can encourage pulling: Some dogs might feel like pulling more when the leash is attached to their back, triggering their instinct to oppose the pulling pressure. You can attach the leash at the front for training or behavior correction, and at the back when just casually walking. Cons: Complexity: These harnesses can be a bit more complex to fit and adjust correctly. Step-In Harnesses Pros: Easy to wear: Your dog only needs to step into the harness, making it a good choice for dogs that are uncomfortable with harnesses sliding over their head. Cons: Less secure: Some step-in harnesses may not provide the same level of security and may come off more easily than other types. Padded Harnesses Pros: Extra comfort: The additional padding can provide more comfort for dogs, especially those with short hair or sensitive skin. Cons: Heat retention: The extra material might make your french bulldogs warmer, which may not be ideal in hot climates or for breeds prone to overheating. Try a cooling vest in summer when using this style! Remember, every french bulldog is unique, and their comfort is paramount. French Bulldog Harness Material Dog harnesses come in a variety of materials — nylon, polyester, and leather, to name a few. Each material has its own pros and cons. Nylon French Bulldog Harnesses: Durability: Nylon is known for its strength and can withstand rough use. Variety: They come in various colors and designs. Easy to Clean: Most nylon harnesses are machine washable. Cons: Can cause rubbing: In some dogs, particularly those with short hair or sensitive skin, nylon harnesses can cause chafing. Leather Harnesses: Durability: Leather harnesses are robust and long-lasting. Aesthetic appeal: They have a luxurious and classic look. Cons: Cost: Leather harnesses tend to be more expensive. Maintenance: They require regular cleaning and conditioning to keep the leather from drying out and cracking. A harness that is too tight can cause discomfort and restricted movement, while one that is too loose may not provide adequate control and can even be a safety hazard if your dog manages to slip out of it. Pros of a Well-Fitted French Bulldog Harness: Comfort: A well-fitted french bulldog harness ensures that your french bulldogs are comfortable during walks. May irritate skin. Risk of Escaping: A loose french bulldog harness might not provide adequate control, and your french bulldogs could potentially slip out. When buying a harness, look for one with adjustable straps that can be altered to get a perfect fit. Harness Training Tips for Your French Bulldogs Training your new French Bulldog Puppy to use a harness might require some time and patience, but the benefits are worth the effort. Getting your new French bulldog puppy accustomed to a new harness might take some time and patience. Start slow, let your bulldog puppy wear the harness for short periods initially. Reward them for their cooperation with treats and positive reinforcement. Collars are not recommended for regular use until at least 7 months of age. The trachea of the french bulldog puppy is still forming. Improper use of collars and putting pressure on the french bulldogs neck and throat can cause serious damage. However a breakaway collar with a bell is smart, allowing you to hear the puppy, for the puppy to get used to the feeling of a collar, and it still allows you the ability to show a sense of style. Never leave french bulldog puppies unattended with collars and harnesses on. Starting with the French Bulldog Harness: Introduction: Let your french bulldog dog sniff and explore the new harness. Reward their curiosity with treats. Adjustment: Place the harness on your french bulldog without fastening it. Give treats and praise during this process to create positive associations. Short Sessions: Begin with short sessions of having the harness on. Gradually increase the duration as your french bulldog dog gets comfortable. Walks: Start going for short walks. Use treats and praises as reinforcement. Remember, every french bulldog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are the keys to successful harness training. I know of a few companies that do! Red Dingo and Ruffwear. We prefer the over the head harness versus the step in harness. When looking at over the head harnesses, make sure to look for one with adjustable straps. French Bulldog heads can be huge and hard to get over, but once over the head, the harness can be extremely loose. Adjustable straps will make it easy to put on but securable for proper fitting. These can also be adjusted as the new french bulldog puppy grows! You will want to measure your frenchie puppy before going shopping for a puppy harness. You can find these at your local drug store or Walmart. Whether your french bulldog is small, medium, or large, you should use the same methods to measure them. To fit your french bulldog dog for a harness, you need two measurements: the neck and the chest. When measuring the neck, wrap the tape measure just below the narrow part where she normally wears a collar. The correct spot to measure will be right above them. When measuring the chest, take care to fit the tape measure around the widest part. Weight can also be a factor in finding the correct size. In addition to measurements, there are other factors that should also influence your purchase. Some harnesses are styled to fit certain body types better than others. The Ruffwear Front Range Harness is a great option for french bulldogs of all ages. Our lb french bulldogs fit in XS, lb french bulldogs fit in Small, and french bulldog pups easily fit in xxs. These french bulldog harnesses are all machine washable. The Red Dingo and Ruffwear have adjustment points, front clip, and padding. These two are my favorite. The Gooby harness is a mesh harness with an adjustable belly strap. This one is great for tiny french bulldog puppies. Kitten Collars Bells are helpful so you can hear your new french bulldog puppy beneath your feet. They come with bells and break away if the puppy should become stuck or strangled. If you are purchasing a new collar because your dog has out-grown its current collar, simply select the next size up from your measurement findings. Measure twice, buy once. But not every home has a soft tape measure. Or just take your string with you to the store! Add 1 — 2 inches to the initial measurement to give extra breathing room and comfort if the dog grows or gains weight. There are a bunch of companies that make fashionable Bulldog specific products. Check out Etsy and Facebook! Conclusion Selecting the right type of harness for your dog is crucial for their comfort, safety, and your peace of mind. As Frenchie owners, you can now feel confident during your shopping experience! FAQs How do I know the right size of the harness for my dog? Can a harness stop my dog from pulling? Training is the most effective way to stop pulling. Can my new french bulldog puppy wear a harness? Yes, but ensure it is the correct size and is adjusted properly to not impede their growth. Is a harness better than a collar? A harness provides better control and evenly distributes pressure, reducing the risk of injury. However, some well-behaved dogs may be comfortable with a collar. Pet parents often have a hard time picking out a new french bulldog puppy harness and collar for their puppy. Dont forget to subscribe and follow on socials! Home » Blog » Effective leash training tips for Frenchie parents Effective leash training tips for Frenchie parents Walking is probably on top of the list of things Frenchies and all dogs like doing most. The truth is that walking on a leash is a skill that puppies need to acquire, so in the beginning it will be your task to get them to like it. In this article, we reveal the essential steps in achieving this, and also share some tips for your grown Frenchie to make walking times enjoyable for both of you! Getting used to the collar The very first step of leash training is to make sure that your Frenchie puppy is comfortable wearing a collar. We recommend doing this at home in your living room where your puppy feels comfortable, and never on the street or in the shop. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! Be prepared that they will probably hate it first and will start chewing on it. The goal is the same as it was with the collar: make them forget about it. When they are finally paying attention to you rather than the leash, you can praise them and show how happy you are with them. If you see that your puppy is up for it, you can slowly try walking up and down in your living room holding the leash. You can then gradually increase the distance, and finally when you manage to make it to the other room you should regard that as a huge achievement! That definitely calls for some extra praising and petting! Remember that small steps will get you far! Check out our French Bulldog Puppies Time to go outside! You should be aware that first there will be a lot of excitement for your puppy: they will hear new sounds, smell new scents and see new things all at once! To you it might just seem that your Frenchie is being stubborn, but they are actually afraid of the new environment which is full of scary sounds and things. No puppy was born already knowing how to walk on the leash, this is a skill they need to acquire. They will very soon realize what an amazing thing it is exploring the world with you, and they are also smart enough to learn that the leash is actually for their own safety. If you are patient, take small steps and use positive reinforcement, it will all be fine! Training your grown Frenchie Once your puppy is bigger and has learned how to walk on the leash, they might eventually get a bit too confident and will try to be the boss at walking times. You should make sure that you never let your puppy pull on the leash and decide which way to go. Just like with any training, you need to be very consistent and expect these things from them every single time you go for a walk! The great debate: harness or collar? This might come as a surprise but we actually recommend using a collar rather than a harness. Dog trainers will usually agree that a harness gives too much confidence to a dog, while a collar can be used to discipline them when they are misbehaving. The reason is that as soon as they start pulling on the leash it will get tighter on their neck, which might seem like a bad thing at first glance but is actually a very effective way of training them. Visit our webshop to find some great leashes, collars and harnesses from Chewy that we recommend for your puppy! The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available puppies here , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. Do you think you should do that too? Collars are mostly used for providing identification for dogs because of their convenience of use. When your frenchie is a young puppy. Most of the time puppies dislike harnesses because it can feel uncomfortable for them. Collars can feel more comfortable because the affected area is only around their neck. For short walks and if your Frenchie has already learned not to pull on the leash while walking,you can use the collar. Although you can choose to use a collar for your Frenchie , there are still pros and cons to weigh. These lists of pros and cons can also help you determine if using the collar is best for you and your fur baby. Pros: More comfortable to wear for prolonged periods of time so they are perfect as identification tag holders for most days or most hours of the day. There is a wider variety of collars to choose from. For instance, our very own Sport Chic leather collar is a soft vegan leather which is not always the case for all collars. Many tend to be sturdier. Easy to wear in and off. Cons: It is possible for your dog to slip out of the collar especially when it is not properly fitted. Collars that are pulled can cause damage to the thyroid and trachea of the dogs. This is especially true for brachycephalic dog breeds like French Bulldog, Chihuahua and Pekingese There are also dangers of collars that can get caught and can suffocate the dog. This is why it is not advisable to keep the collar on the dog when unattended and playing with other dogs or in the yard. In an article written by Caryl Wolff, a certified dog trainer in 5 different organizations in the US and internationally, she writes that she prefers and recommends using a harness for dogs of smaller breeds because they are more prone to a collapsing trachea. When your activity involves longer walks around the block or the park. Similarly, Pet Owens, a professional dog trainer and a known leader when it comes to force-free and non-violent training, writes that he believes that a properly fitted harness is better than a collar while walking a dog. The pressure dissipates more evenly when the dog pulls on the leash. When you are training a puppy. Puppies are highly active and they tend to be more distracted. This is why they can pull on the leash or jump in excitement even after feeling the pressure on their collar. A harness for your frenchie simply provides more control over your pup while walking. Pros and Cons Of Using a Harness Preferred by more pet parents as it seems, the harness also have some pros and cons that you should think about. These will also help you with properly using the harness in times when you choose to put it on your Frenchie. Pros: There is less pull stress during leashed walks when a harness is used because it dissipate the pressure evenly over the body. Provides better control over french bulldogs. Reduces risk of neck pulling injuries especially for dogs of smaller breed and those who have a shorter snout like the French bulldog. Cons: Prolonged wearing of a harness can cause chafes on the skin so it is still better to switch up to collars from time to time. An article by Carol McCarthy for petmd. Front-hook harnesses can also cause discomfort when they are not fitted properly. You should also take a look at the design especially the hardware included. Some dogs may also be allergic to various materials so make sure you figure out what the harness or collar is really made of. Fit — Fit and comfort goes together hand in hand to make sure that wearing a collar or a harness is a good experience for your dog. If not, then your dog may become traumatized or may reject wearing his collar or harness. Dogs come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You should also take a look at the quality of how the collars or harnesses are made. Take a closer look at the stitches and attachments or even read reviews created by previous owners. Style — Style is cosmetic and personal but as frenchie parents, we would love to make our fur babies look their best. Our little Fashionista Kumi also enjoys to be able to switch between collars and harnesses she wears for various occasions and for everyday use. Value — The overall value of the collar or harness should also be consider. It is important to consider factors such as comfort, fit, durability, style and overall value, to find a product that is most suitable for your frenchie. Many personal trainers are open about their preference on using a harness over a collar but many still understand the convenience and importance of using a collar. There are still instances when the collar proves to be better than the harness and vice versa. This is also the reason why we are confident with our choice of using both a collar and a harness for our Frenchie baby. About Us The exclusive destination for all your luxury accessory needs. Inspired by French Bulldogs, made for all pups. This will depend on the size of your frenchie pup. For starters, you can choose lightweight ones and move to heavier and sturdier ones as your Frenchie puppy grows into an adult. It is best not to place the leash right after you call the attention of your puppy for doing something mischievous because it might think that the collar and leash are punishments. Try placing it while your puppy is resting or playing inside your home. Make sure to check the fit so it is not too tight nor too loose. Putting on a collar and leash on an anxious puppy will cause it to be more scared. Your presence and attention may distract them from the collar and leash. It is also best to let them roam freely inside the house with the leash. Ease into taking the leash and try to lead your puppy into walking around the house, but do not force your puppy into it. Rewards such as a toy, treat or a belly rub when it lets you lead them while walking can also help them develop positive feelings towards the collar and leash. It is best to choose a quite place outside for your first walk outdoors. This lessens distractions that can cause your Frenchie to become overly excited and pull on its leash. Let your leash hang loose to let them explore and figure out their limits. Keep your composure, remain calm and be firm. About Us The exclusive destination for all your luxury accessory needs. Inspired by French Bulldogs, made for all pups.

For example, white miniature German shepherds is a mixed breed with Maltese dogs. Since this breed is known for being short-tempered with kids, this may make them too scary for kids, a possibility no family wants. This may also make training harder, unlike standard GSDs that can easily be trained. For example, most miniature GSDs carry the intelligence and loyalty of German shepherds. This leads to plenty of differences between the personality of a miniature German shepherd and the standard GSD. Another good news is that those that belong to the purebred or the dwarfism category typically acts like how a standard German shepherd should. But a mixed breed like the white miniature German shepherd is not only a dog that looks like a German shepherd but smaller. They also have a different purpose, depending on the other breed. They are great for those who own their own farm. Despite a less aggressive behavior, they still qualify as guard dogs. German shepherds have great potential as a search and rescue dogs. Even more so with the mini German shepherd since their size allows them to easily navigate through most terrains. See also 17 Things To Know About German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix Take note, however, that miniature German shepherds, like any other dog, need to have a balanced work and play for a comfortable life. While the German shepherd traits work well with the working line, the traits from the miniature breed may work the opposite way for family dogs. Due to their small size, they can easily be carried from place to place. This makes them great for kids. However, as previously said, when mixed with incompatible breeds, they can exhibit undesirable behaviors. Some examples of such breeds are chow chows and chihuahua , which are the worst dog breeds for small children due to their snappiness. On the other hand, being bred with a collie, poodles, and other friendly breeds may make small German shepherd breeds better family dogs. This means the dog might inherit different traits that you might not know of. Information such as the DNA line and health data are crucial things that you should know so you can take care of the miniature GSD properly. Breeders that cannot answer questions about the parents or provide any documents to back their statements are likely to be the type that only goes after the money. There are also dogs that look like a German shepherd but smaller with a parent from another breed. Some can have different personalities, appearance, health issues, and so on. At the end of the day, you learned many valuable things in this blog post. Many questions have been answered about miniature German shepherds. The truth was revealed. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. What is a Miniature German Shepherd? Purebred or crossbreed? The other side claims it is a mixed breed. The truth is that the Miniature German Shepherd is indeed a crossbreed. Small-sized standard German Shepherds do not exist unless the dog happens to have dwarfism. To get a Miniature German Shepherd, the standard is bred with another purebred, most commonly the Collie or Poodle. Instead, take a look at the parents to get an idea of how a puppy could possibly turn out as an adult. The Intelligent Border Collie This breed is world-renowned for its smarts. A lovable family doggo with talents for competition and herding, it contributes desirable personality traits to make a German Shepherd Collie mix. It can weigh up to 44 lbs 20 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 17 years. Some health concerns to be aware of with this breed include bloating and an eye anomaly that causes partial or complete blindness. This dog makes an elegant and friendly family dog that is a fast learner. The Poodle excels as a competition dog and is also widely used for therapy. The Poodle can weigh up to 70 lbs 31 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 15 years. There are health concerns associated with this breed, such as epilepsy, canine hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy. The Loyal German Shepherd The German Shepherd is sharp as a tack and completely dedicated and in love with its family. Ranking as the 3rd most intelligent, you get a well-rounded dog that is not only stunningly beautiful with its thick coat, confident stance, and communicative features, but an excellent guard dog that will protect at any cost. It can weigh up to 88 lbs 40 kg with a height of 25 in 65 cm and has a lifespan of up to 13 years. For further insight into German Shepherd growth, take a look at this guide and chart. With the Shepherd breed, hip dysplasia is a common health issue that is seen in the Miniature variety as well. Shepherds are also known to suffer from a neural disease called degenerative myelopathy and endocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which is a digestive disorder. This is a rare inherited genetic disorder that results from breeding two purebred German Shepherds. A German Shepherd with dwarfism, though significantly smaller weighing up to 30 lbs , will exhibit the token characteristics and mannerisms the breed is known for. It will also look like a typical Shepherd, except with shortened limbs. This is one way to procure a smaller than normal Shepherd, but there will be extra health issues to deal with, such as allergies and thyroid issues. It is common for these dogs to bald as they age as well. Here is a cute video that gives a glimpse into what life is like for a German Shepherd with dwarfism. The Mini German Shepherd is undoubtedly smaller than the standard one, weighing up to 50 lbs 22 kg. Any combination of these colors can be inherited by the Mini. This Dog is a Devoted Protector maria. They make excellent guard dogs but are good-natured. If you have kids, the Mini will take full responsibility for their safety, with a healthy dose of playtime and cuddling thrown in. Hardworking and intelligent, they make phenomenal search, rescue and therapy dogs. Training is a breeze, as this breed is a fast learner remember, all of three possible parents rank TOP-3 in the smartest dog breeds list? The earlier you introduce behavior commands and socialization methods such as walks in the park where other dogs can be encountered safely, the sooner you will see the intelligence blossom. Hip dysplasia is the most common inherited disease from the German Shepherd parent. This painful condition occurs when an abnormality in the hip socket causes the dog to become crippled or experience agonizing arthritis. To keep your small German Shepherd in good health, plenty of exercises is key. This breed is also prone to canine hypothyroidism, which can cause obesity. No one can guarantee how a mix will turn out. The breeder should be able to present health clearances for hip dysplasia and other common diseases. Check out these Miniature German Shepherd breeders for available litters. The result is a Mini German Shepherd that is a versatile and playful, smaller breed that would make a good family pet or a mini guard dog. Designer dogs come in a variety of coat colors and types, depending on the parent mix, but this hybrid is likely to inherit much of the classic German Shepherd look, its working dog ethic, and intelligence. This petite mixed breed dog is energetic and family-friendly and will prove itself to be both affectionate and protective. A Mini German Shepherd puppy makes an adorable family pet for any dog lover. It is possible to find a very small purebred German Shepherd dog but that would only occur due to dwarfism in the breed. Fact: Pituitary dwarfism is a condition caused as a result of a rare genetic mutation in this purebred dog. Dwarfism in German Shepherd dogs is rare, and if it occurs the puppy may unkindly be referred to as the runt of the litter. A Miniature German Shepherd is the result of cross-breeding. It is a cross between two different dog breeds — a purebred German Shepherd dog and another smaller purebred such as a Collie, Border Collie, Poodle, or occasionally a Golden retriever, or even a tiny Yorkshire Terrier or a Corgi mix! This highly desirable and much loved purebred dog has a strong and impressive bloodline dating back to , in Germany. The German Shepherd was originally bred to be a skilled, powerful and obedient herding dog that was also used as a fearsome guard dog. History of the other possible parent s — crossed to produce this mixed breed dog The Collie When cross-bred with a Collie, it adds another herding and highly disciplined purebred dog into the mix. A Collie is also an intelligent dog and it too is easily trainable with a strong work ethic. Their mini GSG puppies would be a Black and Tan color, sometimes with white bits on their coat, and shed a lot! The Poodle A Poodle is a small dog that is increasing in popularity as the ideal partner for any designer dog combination. They have an easy-going and relaxed approach. They are good-natured and love nothing more than to curl up with their family member and go to sleep. The Golden Retriever and The Yorkshire Terrier are also very popular and much loved family dogs that are smart, family-friendly and easily trainable. Whatever the mix of breed of the Miniature GSD it is going to be a loveable and much desired family dog. However, the majority of the individual breeds used to create this mixed breed dog are. Considering the other parent breeds, mainly Collie and Poodle dog breeds, there are a range of possible coat colors for this dog breed, including Black and Tan, White or even fawn. What are the main characteristics of a Miniature German Shepherd? Like any other crossbred dog, Miniature German Shepherds can inherit the characteristics of either parent or both. It is sometimes thought that crossbred dogs are more likely to inherit health problems than purebred dogs; however, a puppy mixed dog can inherit all, some, or none of the health problems its parent breeds have. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent more than the other. The Miniature German Shepherd puppy tends to have more of the classic appearance of the standard German Shepherd parent, but it is a smaller breed of dog. The characteristics of Miniature GSDs are a combination of nature and nurture: genetics of the parents, the environment and the quality, type and amount of training and socialization. Loyalty and companionship Any mix of German Shepherd is likely to be extremely loyal and have a very loving temperament when trained and socialized properly. They will make a very caring and protective companion, for any dog lover. They can be very loving and affectionate dogs and enjoy company, and the more active their lifestyle the better. Reputation: The German Shepherd is a confident breed that looks fiercer than its actual behavior. The Miniature German Shepherd is a very cute mix and because of its smaller size it could be forgotten that this breed has a reputation for being a fierce guard dog and possibly one of the listed dangerous dogs when not trained and socialized properly. When handled correctly and properly trained the mini GSD can be an affectionate and reliable dog for a family or individual dog lover, who wants a companion. And a mini mix that tends to have the GSD look will be highly popular and desirable too. Although smaller it will still be an agile and alert dog that will need lots of mental and physical activity. The trainability of this intelligent shepherd breed dog should be fairly easy. Positive reinforcement and small treats will work well with this dog but not harsh control, any form of negative punishment or physical restraint as it may rebel. The mini GSD puppy is very energetic and easily bored, so to prevent mischief it will need at least one hour a day minimum exercise, building up hours a day in adulthood. That means they are clever, alert and used to working hard when trained. This dog is fairly easy to train and will love to have challenges and a working purpose. They will be strong, resilient and love a challenge with both mental and physical stimulation involved, otherwise, they may misbehave. Socialization: Early socialization and learning discipline are strongly recommended for any German Shepherd crossbred dog. Any type of hybrid dog with two intelligent parents will be strong-willed and want to be kept active and useful. They will not want a sedentary lifestyle and will enjoy as much exercise and action as the owner can provide. When trained and socialized this mixed breed dog will be approachable and friendly around children and other animals. Purpose: This breed will be loyal and true to their owner and protect them to the end. If the other parent is a collie then both were bred as fearless working dogs for herding and protection. This means they will want to work for their master and keep busy. Even is the other parent is a poodle or a smaller dog, they will still be clever and want to serve and obey their owner well. Behaviour: This breed can be strong-willed and needs to be trained early as it can easily and will become destructive, or bark if under-stimulated. Physical Characteristics of the Miniature German Shepherd Apart from being athletic, attractive and family and stranger friendly, the miniature German Shepherd will be loyal and protective, playful and guard its family and home with precision. Check out this article, Purebred German Shepherd vs. The whole point of having a mini German Shepherd is that you want a smaller dog with the looks and temperament of a purebred. So one of your first questions might be, how big do miniature German Shepherds get? Miniature German Shepherds will be much smaller than purebreds. They can even be half the size of a fully grown GSD depending on the other breed that the female has mated with, for instance, a Corgi or Yorkshire Terrier. On average, they will weigh up to 50 lbs and be up to 20 inches tall. If you are contemplating getting a miniature German Shepherd, you may wonder how you know what you will get in terms of appearance. A miniature German Shepherd will usually look very similar to a German Shepherd, having similar colors and markings and comparable physical characteristics such as pointy ears or a bushy tail. They will typically take the appearance of a compact purebred; however, this is not guaranteed. You can see the dog keeps the main colors, markings, and pointy ears of the German Shepherd. Occasionally, a miniature German Shepherd will resemble a split combination of the German Shepherd and the other breed used in the cross. Sometimes, it can be difficult to predict how they will look as they may or may not share the appearance of both parents. The only way to see the true appearance of the dog is if you choose to adopt one from a shelter or a re-homing center. Unlike German Shepherds, they require fine-tuning of the care plan to suit their needs. Food Miniature German Shepherds need to be fed the quantity of a small-sized dog, and slow feeding is highly recommended to avoid choking. They may feel bloated. Likewise, train your mini German Shepherd to eat slowly. Exercise Being a cross-breed dog, this miniature German Shepherd needs a combination of exercises that promote movement, fun, and interaction. Schedule the routine carefully. Do Miniature German Shepherds Shed? German Shepherds are naturally heavy shedders. But what about the miniature variety? Do they also shed? Miniature German Shepherds do shed. They are heavy shedders and will shed the same as German Shepherds. This occurs in the spring and fall. In spring, the undercoat will change to a lighter, cooler one in line with warmer weather, and in fall, a thicker, warmer undercoat will grow in preparation for the winter. If you hope for a compact German Shepherd that sheds less, you will be disappointed! However, sometimes the degree of shedding can depend on the breed used in the cross. You can check out my article about German Shepherd shedding for loads more info, including my 7 top tips on reducing shedding. Are Mini German Shepherds Hypoallergenic? If you suffer from an allergy to pet dander, you may wonder if the mini German Shepherd is hypoallergenic. Miniature German Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. Even if a hypoallergenic breed such as a Poodle is used in the cross, it is improbable that the puppies will also be hypoallergenic, but they may shed less than a purebred German Shepherd. Mini German Shepherds often live longer than GSDs and can live up to 15 years, depending on the breed used in the mix — compared to years for a GSD. Small dogs live longer than large breeds because large breeds age faster. Mixed breeds are also more likely to have a recessive disease. This recent study of , dogs found that purebreds were 2. Another study of over 27, dogs conducted over 15 years to determine the proportion of mixed-breed and purebred dogs with common genetic disorders found that the theory that purebred dogs are more susceptible to inherited disease is only true for some disorders. They are prone to hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and bloat GDV. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals states that .However, it can be prevented by proper screening and stamping out unscrupulous breeders. Some common health problems include dysplasia, hemophilia, degenerative myelopathy, and epilepsy. Although mini German Shepherds are smaller in size, they can still suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia due to genetic reasons. Another common health condition as a result of genetics is hemophilia. Similar to dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy can happen due to genetic reasons, and your mini German Shepherd can experience weakness in the rear limbs as age progresses. Based on the other parent Corgi, Collie, Poodle, Pug, or Daschund , the other health issues can be determined. However, these small breeds are prone to epilepsy, and you should take prior care. What is a Miniature German Shepherd Called? Below are the names of the most popular miniature German Shepherds. However, sometimes it can be a bit of a lottery with appearance, as you can see in the image of this Shepadoodle. Key Points: Intelligent, friendly, graceful, proud, affectionate, loyal, alert, active, protective, fun-loving, and highly trainable. Small dogs typically in the inches cms range. Miniature Poodles are used. Lifespan is years. Good with strangers once socialized. Good with children and other animals. Adapt well to apartment living and are ideal for novice owners. High grooming needs due to their unique curly, wiry, and dense hair. Low shedders and hypoallergenic. Excels in many activities, including agility, obedience, herding, and tracking. Often used as assistance dogs. Key Points: Shollie Herding dog famous for his intense stare used to control the flock. Love to please their owners and respond well to praise. Always alert and ready to obey commands. Medium size dog with an overall height of inches cm. High energy becomes destructive if not exercised. Good around children but need early socialization and obedience training due to strong herding instinct. Excel in various canine sports, including tracking, obedience, agility, and sheepdog trials. Open space is preferred but can adapt to living in most environments, except in small apartments. Mostly black with a white blaze on the face, neck, feet, legs, and tail tip, with or without some tan. Double-coated, rough, or smooth. Medium shedders. Key Points: Strong and lively small breed herding dog bred to move cattle and sheep. Loyal, playful, friendly, protective, intelligent, alert, affectionate, fearless, independent, watchdog. Fond of children and gets along with other family pets. Excellent first-choice dog. Small breed between .Weigh up to 30 pounds. Four coat colors red, sable, fawn, tri-colored , and many have white markings on the legs, chest, neck, muzzle, and tummy. Enjoy exercise and require at least an hour a day. Quick and agile despite their short, muscular legs. Good at agility, tracking, herding events, and obedience. Heavy shedders but easy to groom. Therefore, artificial insemination may be required when breeding breeds of different sizes. Key Points: A small terrier-type dog bred to catch rats. Trendy companion dog. Maximum weight of 7 pounds 3kg and a height of inches cms. Comes in various colors. Intelligent, trainable, courageous, confident, bold, affectionate, independent, feisty, bossy, alert, and curious. Suspicious of strangers and will bark at intruders and unfamiliar sounds; good watchdogs. Make a good first dog and are ideal for apartment living. Not child-friendly. Can become snappy around noisy toddlers if teased or startled. Good with other family pets, in particular cats. Require a fair amount of physical and mental exercise. Enjoy playing and chasing. Non-shedding dogs, but their coats are similar to human hair requiring regular grooming. Key Points: Dachshund Shepherd It was bred as a hunter of burrow-dwelling animals — part of the hound group. Long muscular body. Short legs. Standard size weighs up to 32 pounds and is inches tall cms. Come in various colors. Intelligent, lively, playful, courageous, bold, independent, affectionate, devoted, fierce, and stubborn. Good watchdogs, feisty, wary of strangers. Stubborn, mischievous, and challenging to train. Good first pets. It is suited to apartments. Good around young children and other pets. But can be a little snappy around unfamiliar children, especially if teased. Tireless when it comes to exercise. Enjoy long walks. Come in shorthaired smooth , longhaired, and wirehaired varieties. Smooth is more popular as their coats need little grooming. Not suited to living outdoors. The smooth-haired variety requires a coat in cold weather. Learn about the pros and cons of Dachshunds here. It can be quite challenging to find a good breeder specializing in the type of min German Shepherd you are looking for. Adopting gives you a major advantage in that you can go and see the dog you choose. The Shelter Pet Project aims to make shelters the first place potential adopters look when choosing a dog. Blue Cross is another charity that helps sick, injured, abandoned, and homeless pets. If you decide to find a reputable breeder, make sure to do your due diligence. My article, How to Buy a German Shepherd: 5 Easy Steps , will give you loads of helpful advice and tips, but here are some quick tips when choosing a puppy: Go and meet the breeder. Ask any questions to see how knowledgeable they are, e. See if they appear genuine and honest and are not running a puppy farm. Ask to see all the puppies in their environment. Check how happy and healthy they look. Get the breeder to show you the parents. A reputable breeder will do this as a matter of course, as they have nothing to hide. Ask to see the puppies with their parents. Watch their behavior and see how they interact. Get a full medical history. Remember to check not only the pup you are interested in but also the parents. Expect the breeder to quiz you regarding your suitability. Good breeders care for the dog as they care for their pups and will not sell them to anyone. Depending on various factors such as breeder experience, bloodline, location, the number of puppies, etc. So, how much is a miniature German Shepherd? Therefore, purebred GSDs are generally more expensive. However, prices have increased considerably since the pandemic. Key Takeaways Miniature German Shepherds are good family dogs and make wonderful pets. Here are a few key takeaways from the article to help you decide if this breed is for you: There is no such thing as a purebred miniature German Shepherd. Although mini German Shepherds are bred to replicate the qualities of a German Shepherd in a smaller size, this is not guaranteed as they can sometimes inherit less attractive traits from the other breed mated. Breeding a German Shepherd with much smaller breeds, such as the Yorkie or Dachshund, divides opinion. Some will say this breeding is unethical and can cause numerous health issues. If you want more info on mixes in general, check out this article, Are Mixed Breeds Bad? Related Posts You May Like:. Life Span Did You Know? A Miniature German Shepherd is a cross between a German Shepherd and a smaller dog breed that is meant to result in a smaller version of a German Shepherd. Although these Mini Shepherds can inherit any combination of traits from their parent breeds, they tend to be energetic, intelligent dogs that bond closely with their families and are affectionate with them. Miniature German Shepherds make great family dogs. They may be hardworking while on a job, but they have a playful spirit while relaxing with their family. They also tend to get along well with children and other dogs in the family. Although they tend to do well with smaller pets they have been raised with, they do have a high prey drive. Mini German Shepherds are also protective and alert. They will bark to alert you and will be naturally suspicious of strangers. Proper socialization and training early on can help make sure barking does not become a nuisance and will help them open up to strangers once introduced. Miniature German Shepherds are highly adaptable dogs. They tend to be a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. But, they can adapt just as well to apartments as long as they get the exercise, mental stimulation, and attention they need. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat. Because they bond so closely with their families and want to be near them, they do not do well with long periods of alone time. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs because of genetic diversity. However, this is not a guarantee. They could inherit no conditions common to the parent breeds, but they could also inherit some or all of them. So, make sure you are asking them about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. For the Miniature German Shepherd, potential health conditions to be aware of include progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. Because of their body shape, they are also at risk for bloat. Although Miniature German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle on their own. Their high energy, working dog instincts, thirst for learning, and need for structured training can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners. Because of this, puppy training classes are recommended if you are not an experienced dog owner. They help reinforce training, strengthen the bond you have with your dog, and also offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. In general, a Miniature German Shepherd will have a coat that sheds moderately year-round and heavier seasonally. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath is usually sufficient for this coat type. If a Miniature German Shepherd has a Mini Poodle parent, there is a chance they could inherit the low-shedding Poodle coat. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Although good dental care for dogs is essential, it is often overlooked. This is one of the reasons why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in older dogs. You can help protect your pup from painful dental diseases later in life by brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day and keeping up with regular vet visits. Although a Miniature German Shepherd may be smaller than a German Shepherd, they are still a high-energy dog with working dog instincts. In addition to having a job to do, these dogs also need daily walks plus playtime and time to run to be happy and healthy. If they like it, swimming can be a good low-impact activity while they are still growing. Once puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like hiking, running, training for dog sports, and more to see what they like. A fully-grown Miniature German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs about 50 pounds. There can be some variation depending on the other parent breed in the cross, but meeting the mother dog in-person can give you a better idea of what size to expect in a Mini GSD. A Miniature German Shepherd generally lives for years. If the other parent crossed with a German Shepherd is a Standard Poodle, the result is a Shepadoodle. Featured Miniature German Shepherd Article. Standard German Shepherd Dogs In the late 19th century, various strains of German dogs were combined to create the ultimate herding dog. Today the breed is better known for their military, police, protection and service dog work. A well-socialized German Shepherd Dog makes a wonderfully loyal family pet. This is a well muscled dog with a deep chest and strong hindquarters, and he is longer than he is tall. Their double coat of medium length comes in a variety of colors. They have a long muzzle, confident head carriage, and pointed ears. Therefore that makes them more appealing to many people. The oversized round head and big eyes associated with little dogs engenders a feeling of caretaking behavior in people. This phenomenon is known as baby schema. Are Miniature German Shepherds Real? Miniaturization in dog breeding is achieved in one of three ways. A standard German Shepherd can be crossed with a smaller dog breed. They can possess the gene for dwarfism. The final way to miniaturize is to breed two exceptionally small purebred German Shepherds together. Miniature German Shepherd Mix Breeding a female German Shepherd with the male of a smaller breed produces a mixed breed dog. This is the most humane way to miniaturize. They could be smaller but not look or behave anything like a German Shepherd. The upside to crossbreeding is that it can reduce the incidence of passing along genetic health problems. Here are some breeds that breeders commonly mix with the German Shepherd. They measure just 10 to 12 inches and weigh from 25 to 30 pounds. Despite the size difference, these are both herding breeds who are smart and trainable. You can expect this mix to stand from 12 to 15 inches and weigh anywhere from 25 to 65 pounds. The Corman Shepherd will be an athletic dog who needs plenty of activity. This is a highly intelligent, loyal, and loving mix. In appearance, these two breeds are very dissimilar, so looks can vary depending on which parent the puppies take after. The standard Poodle is over 15 inches and weighs from 40 to 70 pounds. You can expect the Shepadoodle to range from 15 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 90 pounds. This is sure to be a whip smart and extremely energetic dog. He will need plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. The Shollie will be highly trainable. But a tendency to be protective might not make them the best choice for homes with small children. The Border Collie stands from 18 to 22 inches and weighs from 30 to 55 pounds. Physical characteristics of this condition include short bowed legs, longer body and issues with coat development. This would truly be a miniature German Shepherd in terms of temperament and behavior. However, pituitary dwarfism can have some pretty serious health effects. To a breeder, it means puppies whose weight at birth is abnormally low. To clarify, defined this way, you could have an entire litter of runts. Unfortunately, puppies who are born extremely underweight are likely to face many health problems throughout their lives. And the more underweight they are, the more they are at risk. Some breeders choose this method because the other characteristics of the breed will get passed down to the puppies. However, when two dogs who are way below the standard size are bred together, it increases the chance of passing along health problems as well. The standard female German Shepherd is somewhat smaller, standing from 22 to 24 inches and weighing between 50 and 70 pounds. To be a mini German Shepherd you need to be less than 22 inches tall and fewer than 50 lbs. But Miniature German Shepherds can be considerably smaller than this, depending upon how they are bred. Miniature German Shepherd size will depend on a number of factors. So crossing with a Collie would make a larger dog than one mixed with a Yorkie. A miniature German Shepherd full grown with the gene for dwarfism would have very short legs and weigh approximately 30 pounds. Breeding two very underweight purebred GSDs could potentially make an even smaller dog, but at what cost? Do you still think that a mini German Shepherd mix or some kind of small German shepherd dog is right for you? Why is the mini German shepherd such an attractive prospect for families compared to a regular GSD? German shepherds can be attractive to families for a number of reasons — they are smart dogs with a loyal streak and are known to become playing, loving member of the family if they are trained correctly. The problem that often puts buyers off, however, is the size. There are always concerns that these large dogs will be difficult to own with children in the house — even though they are pretty good-natured that way — and that there simply wont be enough room for them. A GSD needs space to run around and play in, which makes apartment living out of the question. The idea of having a mini version of a German shepherd is therefore appealing to apartment dwellers that love the breed but do not have the space to own a full sized one. This leads to fantasies of tiny shepherds living contently in the home, acting like a cuter smaller version of an old family pet. The problem is that the reality is vastly different. The additional problem that hopeful owners have to face is that there are a number of breeders, or a least online sellers, trying to get away with saying that they have a genuine teacup German shepherd for sale. Teacup is one of those buzzwords with designer animals that has unfortunately lingered in the public consciousness. Whenever an animal has been bred to be ridiculously small and suitable for the home — such as with the teacup pigs that were a massive craze many years ago — they are given this name to make them sound even smaller and cuter. Perhaps there will be an accompanying photo of an animal in a cup and saucer to really hammer the point home. Beware of anyone trying to pull this stunt because GSDs cannot get that small and they are just trying to ramp up their miniature German shepherd price. Take a second look at those photos on those websites, do they really look like a pure mini German shepherd dog? If you know your dog breeds, you will know that there are certain characteristics to look for an a purebred GSD — such as the back line, the shape of the legs, the size of the muzzle and those pointed ears. A big fluffy coat, long bushy tail, floppy ears or a squashed in face are big red flags that another breed is in the mix. There are three reasons why the dog you are being shown is a small looking GSD: it could be an undersized runt of the litter, an animal with dwarfism or a cross bred with a smaller breed of dog. The latter could provide buyers with a lap-dog sized pup that appears to be like a mini German shepherd, but it would false advertising. German Shepherd with Dwarfism: Image Source Why is dwarfism such a problem when looking for a smaller German shepherd? Purebred GSDs with dwarfism can look like cuter, smaller versions of their siblings, but it is important to remember that this is a disability from a genetic defect and these dogs should not be deliberately bred to look this way. The problem comes when buyers think that they are being sold a healthy dog and do not realise the lifelong commitment to healthcare and medical checks. Dwarf German shepherds are also more likely to have coat problems. Some struggle to regulate their temperature due to a lack of undercoat and others go bald with age. There are a number of small German shepherd breeds out there that are actually a cross between a GSD and a smaller animal. Many of the dominant genes of the shepherd will come through in the color of the coat or some of the physical characteristics, but there will be other genes from the other animal that are leading to its diminutive stature. Collies and huskies are commonly bred with these dogs but, in theory, breeders could end up with all kinds of offspring if a GSD bred with a smaller lap dog. This range of potential breeds may mean that there are lots of interesting looking dogs to choose from, but you could be taking a big gamble. This vast potential for hybridised offspring means that there is a range of interesting looking puppies out there, from miniature white German shepherd to small black German shepherd and so much in-between. There are lots of cute puppies in need of a good home that will have some GSD genes and some miscellaneous ones — especially if you are buying one that is advertised as a pure breed. The problem in this form of lucky dip is that you may not be sure exactly what you are going to get. German Shepherd Collie Mix: Source How will you know what their temperament and potential health care problems are likely to be? The biggest concern for unsuspecting buyers is that dealers who are adamant that they are selling these desirable, pure miniature dogs, will not give much away about the true parentage of the animal and any potential implications of that breeding. What sort of personality will your German shepherd miniature have? This is the biggest concern for anyone looking at a miniature German shepherd for sale. As was mentioned before, buyers have clear ideas of how a GSD should behave before buying and will assume that their mini version will live up these expectations. There is always the chance, however, that some of the less desirable, naughty behavioural traits of the other dog will become dominant. Training your mini GSD hybrid Because the intellect and temperament of your puppy may remain unclear at first, training your new dog could prove to be more of a challenge. Each breed has its own quirks and there are always little tricks to use to get around problem behaviour, but how do you determine this in an unknown hybrid? Additionally, you may find that while many GSDs are quick studies with a knack for verbal commands and little need for repetition, your pup may be a little slower and requires a little more patience. In difficult cases like this, it helps to be able to turn to an online resource such as the Doggy Dan online dog trainer for regular help. What sort of health care needs will your German shepherd mini have? German shepherd dogs have a number of potential health care issues to watch out for and the most common concern among owners is joint problems and dysplasia, particularly in the hips. There is no guarantee that this will be avoided in these small shepherd breeds and there could be additional disease risk and genetic problems coming from the other parent. Without a clear idea of the parentage and family history, some major problems could creep up on you as the puppy grows up. What about grooming? Grooming is something that all GSD owners have to consider because the dense double layers of this big working dog can shed quite a lot, especially during the seasonal moults. There is the assumption, therefore, that a mini version will have the same requirements, but this may not be the case. Depending on the breed, you may end up with a short haired German shepherd mix that requires less attention, or a fluffy coated breed that requires more attention. If the answer is yes, you need to know how to do so responsibly. If you do decide to buy from a breeder, there is the added issue of the mini German shepherd cost. Check to see how much the dogs are being sold for and, if the price seems high, why they are going for so much. An expensively-priced animal is not always the best pick if it is sold under false pretences. The first thing to do is to find a breeder that you can meet in person where you can actually see the puppies that are for sale. See if you can arrange to see the puppies with their parents and the rest of the pups so that you can check to see if they are part of a healthy litter and get to know more about their genetics. Talk to the breeder about the animals they are selling and see how honest they are willing to be about the parentage, health issues and other considerations when dealing with the pup. If it is a pure breed, ask why it is so small. If they are honest about it being a hybrid, ask about the likely traits. Finally, give the puppy a good check to see if there are any clear health problems. This can help you to rule out the dwarfism and runt issues. Again, there is the chance that you will not know precisely what their genetic make-up is if the animal has been brought in from a bad home or as a stray, but the shelter staff will be able to tell you all about the character of the dog and what to expect in terms of health care, especially if they are an adult dog. This approach takes some of the risk factor out of the decision while giving you the chance to do something very noble for an unfortunate animal. What have we learnt about the mini German shepherd breed? Remember to always take online adverts with a pinch of salt, ignore all those that advertise puppies that sound too good to be true and to look for a breeder that is open and honest about the genetic traits of the puppies that they have for sale. If the breeder route has put you off, then look into giving an unwanted hybrid small GSD dog a good home. Source Do you still think that a mini German Shepherd mix or some kind of small German shepherd dog is right for you? If you have your heart set on a pure German Shepherd you either have to accept that they are big dogs needing a lot of space or that you will have to opt for a hybrid. Hopefully the idea of a hybrid dog is a welcome one because it should be about the love, companionship and welfare of the dog rather than trying to find the impossible replication of a GSD in a small breed. If you decide that you are happy to continue with your search for a small German shepherd breed now you know it is a cross breed, take the time to consider the different issues mentioned here and to find your ideal dog in a responsible way. German Shepherd Border Collie Mix: Source Bypass all of the online adverts and false photographs for those teacup GSDs and search for an honest breeder that will talk to you about the parentage of the dog and what to expect. The only difference is that you will have the peace of mind of knowing precisely what you have bought or adopted, rather than ending up with a dog that is not what as advertised to you at all.

Contact How to Potty Train an English Bulldog in 12 Simple Steps Apart from chewed furniture or scratched doors with a young or untrained English bulldog, coming back to a house that reeks of urine and feces can be utterly distressing. All dogs do not like soiling their usual eating and sleeping areas and are instinctively cleaner. Therefore they learn to not urinate and defecate in their crates which means it is not impossible to potty train them. How to potty train an English bulldog? Begin by designating a potty spot in the yard. Take the English Bulldog to the potty spot every hours to normalize this area for when it needs to potty. English bulldogs are strong-willed, so while they are trainable, it can take some time, persistence, and patience. But in the end, they will be potty training. Why does my English bulldog pee in his bed? Bedwetting is a common problem among dogs, and there is a solution to this. However, before figuring out the solution, it is essential to find out the possible reasons behind it. Dogs will try their best not to soil their sleeping areas. This comes from their wild instinct of keeping their den clean, and if something is going against that instinct, it could be behavioral, emotional, or medical. It is best to consult a veterinarian to rule out any illness behind this unusual behavior. There could be several reasons behind your English bulldog peeing in his bed. Urinary Tract Infection UTI Urinary tract infections are common in dogs and are caused by fungi, bacteria, or parasites in the urinary tract. Urinary infection can increase the frequency of urination, urgency, bloody urine, and improper urination in your dog. Bulldogs are susceptible to urinary tract infections more than other dog breeds. Female English bulldogs are more at risk of getting UTI than males, but male bulldogs can still get them. Your dog does not forget his house training, but the disease makes it quite difficult for your dog to stop the flow of urine when he wants to go. Hormone Responsive Urinary Incontinence Your English bulldog may pee in his bed while sleeping or relaxed. He may not be able to hold his urine that leaks out involuntarily. This is more common in middle-aged spayed female bulldogs. When a female bulldog is spayed, her ovaries are removed, resulting in a decrease in her estrogen production. With a decrease in estrogen, the sphincter becomes relaxed, making them leak urine. The problem gets worse with age. Your English bulldog could also be suffering from separation anxiety. If your dog is left alone at home for long hours, then he can grow extremely distressed and may start urinating and even defecating indoors. To know more about how to help a distressed bulldog read, Is My Bulldog Stressed? And How to Treat It! Territory Marking All dogs do urinary markings out of instinct. Some dogs, including English bulldogs, mark around the house to keep potential intruders at bay. Your dog may start marking inside the house and let out only small amounts of urine in strategic places. Your English bulldog may be insecure about his belongings and may start peeing at different spots in the house to keep others away from them. This usually happens after a new family member, a human, feline, or a canine, is brought to the house. But this is different from wetting their beds. How to Help your Bedwetting English Bulldog? Your English bulldog may feel insecure due to the arrival of a new family member, be it a human or another pet. If your English bulldog pees in bed due to some underlying emotional issue, then observe what happens before bedtime. Take time to note would could be causing this behavior. Many times, simple changes can resolve this issue but if professional help is needed, seek the advice of your vet. If peeing in bed occurs on a regular basis, then I would recommend getting a waterproof bed. A waterproof bed or bed cover will make it easier to clean up, especially if you are training a new pup. Even with a waterproof bed, continue to take your English bulldog outside to potty in the appropriate spot. Shower your dog with praise when it does potty outside. Another wonder help is to use an odor neutralizer on the spots your bulldog pees. This will discourage your English bulldog from peeing inside the house. Potty Training the English Bulldog The first thing to understand when potty training your English bulldog is that there is an immense need for repetition and consistency. An English bulldog should be potty trained when they are young to instill this habit early on. Adult bulldogs may also be given the training. Potty training, an English bulldog puppy, will need some hard work and so be prepared for it. The following tips can be helpful in potty-training your English bulldog. If the puppy has been used to pee pads or newspapers as was done by the breeder for a long time, then the training may be a bit tougher. Take away the newspaper so they are not available for use. Take your English bulldog puppy out every two to three hours for a potty break, especially after naps, meals, playtime, and before going to bed. Choose a safe spot for your puppy that is protected from all elements so that the potty breaks are comfortable. English bulldogs are perpetually hungry, and food motivation can work well with them. Reward your dog with healthy treats when it goes out to the designated spot outside to relieve itself and then comes back inside. As your English bulldog puppy starts growing up, you can increase the time between potty breaks as older dogs have better control over elimination. After the age of 6 months, your English bulldog can quickly go about 4 to 5 hours without needing to go out. English bulldogs are mainly indoor dogs, so they can also be trained to use a big dog litter box inside the house. Look out for signs such as your bulldog walking in circles, sniffing the ground. All these are telltale signs that your English bulldog wants to eliminate and should immediately be taken outside the house. Fix a particular area of your yard as the potty area for your bulldog and take your dog to this area only when you first go outside. Eventually, your bulldog will learn to his business at the same spot, making it easier for you to clean up after him. When your bulldog is finished relieving itself, be quick to reward. An English bulldog thrives off praise, gentle belly rubs, or a dog treat for a job well done. Create a specific place in the house for your English bulldog to potty. Always use positive reinforcements when potty training an English bulldog puppy or an adult dog. Scolding the dog can create fear and a lack of confidence. A dog that is uncomfortable is more likely to have an accident. English bulldog puppies are a powerhouse of energy that have not developed proper control over their bladders. These pups grow fast, eat more, burn calories quickly, and in turn need to eliminate more frequently than their adult English bulldog counterparts. For hard floors, laminate or tile, use absorbent cloth, paper towels, or a mop to absorb the pee. Then clean the surface to remove any lingering residue and smell. Use an enzyme neutralizer that can break down the protein-based molecules in urine that cause bad odors. You can use the same on soft surfaces like carpets and sofas. It is easier to clean on hard floors, but if your English bulldog pees on smooth surfaces like carpet, bed, or a sofa than cleaning can be an uphill task as these surfaces can absorb the pee. If this happens, immediately use napkins and towels to blot out as much pee as you can. Then sprinkle some water and put some drops of mild soap over the spot where your dog peed. Then use another towel to dilute the remaining amount of urine. Sometimes even after you have cleaned the pee, the stench can linger, so what should you do to eliminate them? Removing the odor is essential as your dog will think that the area is an acceptable place to relieve himself. One of the everyday household items that you can use to remove the odor is baking soda. Spread the baking soda all across the damp spot. Remember not to take too much of it. Allow the baking soda to sit overnight and then vacuum all the baking soda thoroughly several times until the area feels clean. Another method uses one more household item, and that is vinegar. Take a spray bottle and mix one cup of white vinegar with one cup of water and two teaspoons of baking soda. Mix the ingredients thoroughly by shaking them up. Then spray this mixture on the stain and allow it to sit for some time. Later blot the area with clean towels or napkins until clean. Vinegar neutralizes the smell of urine without fading the carpets and sofas and is excellent for cleaning and protecting them. English bulldogs are adorable but also have a stubborn streak in them. This can make it difficult to train , especially potty training. Praises and positive reinforcements through voice commands and treats can do the trick. Shouting or raising your voice can be disturbing to an English bulldog. Aggressive behavior from the owner can make the bulldog withdraw, setting back the training, and making him even more stubborn. Remember, positive training will lead to positive results! Post Views: 1, I have experienced this adorable overload personally working as a dog walker. My job to visit a Bulldog puppy each day for a potty break was a dream client. Are English Bulldogs easy to potty train? On average English Bulldogs can be easy to potty train when set up for success. Bulldogs are notoriously stubborn and can be hard to train at times. Teaching an English Bulldog to potty train will require consistency, patiences, and positive reinforcement. Successful potty training of any dog requires a number of factors to put your puppy in the best position to succeed. English Bulldogs are no different. Though they can be a little harder to train, potty training can be much easier if you follow a few simple techniques. In this post I have outlined some of the best tips for potty training an English Bulldog. I have used these techniques on both of my dogs and potty training was very easy. Using these same tips with your English Bulldog will ensure success and clean floors. As a general rule it will take as long as months to potty train an English Bulldog. Some dogs learn faster than others, but techniques in training will make all the difference. Being proactive, consistent, patient and positive you will shorten the time frame of your English Bulldogs potty training. Generally when a dog is able to go several weeks in a row without an accident in the house I consider them to be potty trained. Though some English Bulldogs can be potty trained by the age of 4 months, a more common timeline is closer to 6 months. The success of your English Bulldogs potty training will depend primarily on you as the owner. Follow the tips in the sections below and your potty training will be over sooner rather than later. On average English Bulldogs puppies can hold their bladder between hours depending on their age. The general rule is 1 hour per month of age. Adult English Bulldogs can hold their bladder for hours or longer, but it is best to get them out to relieve themselves every 5 hours. Variables such as activity level, amount of water consumed, and the age of the dog will all contribute to these timelines. Senior English Bulldogs may develop weaker bladders as they grow old. Adult Bulldogs may need more frequent potty breaks if they are well hydrated and very active. Each dog will be different to varying degrees. Pay attention to some of the warning signs of an English Bulldog that needs to potty, and be aware of how much water they have consumed since their last potty break. There are several techniques used to successfully potty training an English Bulldog. Being proactive, consistent, positive, and patient are all important components to set your dog up for success. By controlling your puppies environment and setting them up for success potty training can be done easily. Below are 12 of the best tips and techniques you can use to successfully, and hopefully easily, potty train your English Bulldog. By following each of these tips you will reduce accidents, create a positive learning environment, and increase your puppies chance of early success. Be Proactive With Training One of the most important tips for potty training your English Bulldog puppy is being proactive. There is a reason I put this up as the first tip. Being proactive will give your dog the best chances of potty training success. This means taking them out before they have a chance to go in the house. Take your English Bulldog puppy outside to potty when they: Wake up in the morning Finishing eating or drinking Wake up from a nap Have not been out in 2 hours Before they go to bed at night. By following these simple guides you will reduce the amount of accidents in the house by a significant degree. Yes it will feel like you are going outside more than you are inside some days. That is part of the potty training deal. Literally making 10 trips a day outside was the norm, and at times exhausting. But you know what happened? Be proactive. It works! Establish A Potty Routine Puppies know very little when it comes to basic commands and training in general. One thing puppies do understand very well is a routine. Dogs are creatures of habit, and puppies are no exception. English Bulldog puppies will understand a routine far sooner than they will understand much of anything else. That is why it is important to set up a routine that your puppy can count on. When your puppy knows that they will be going outside first thing in the morning, or right after dinner time, they are more likely to hold their bladder. When a puppy has no routine they will not know the next time a potty break is coming and relieve themselves whenever, and wherever they please. Make routine a key component of your potty training and your puppy will learn to hold their bladder instead slightly longer in anticipation of an outside break. Following a routine one week and not the next week can undo a lot of training progress. Stay consistent with routines, rewards, and places you take your dog to potty. Limiting the area your puppy has access to in the home can reduce where accidents might happen and allow for you to keep a closer eye on their activities. Allowing a puppy to have free roaming access to the entire home will lead to hidden accidents. You might not see your puppy pee behind the couch in the other room. This may create a new spot where your puppy will go to relieve themselves in the future without you having a chance to properly clean up. Baby gates are a great way to limit access to rooms in the home. Attaching a leash to your waist to keep your puppy nearby at all times is also a good option. Controlling the space your puppy can access will make a big difference. I will typically let my puppy have a drink hours before bedtime and then remove it for the night. This will ensure that your puppy has an empty bladder after their pre-bedtime potty break and can make it through most, if not all of the night. Not removing their access to water can lead to mid night accidents or very early morning potty runs. The crate is one of the most effective potty training tools you can use. Dogs will avoid relieving themselves in places they sleep and eat. By providing your English Bulldog puppy with a small, yet comfortable place to sleep and relax, you are preventing accidents from happening when you are asleep or out of the home. Crates should be large enough for your puppy to easily stand and turn around inside. Not too big that they can go to a corner and relieve themselves however. The crate will allow you to leave your puppy for short periods of time without worry of accidents. It also allows the puppy to learn to control their bladder. Once you do return home or wake up in the morning, get your puppy straight outside from their crate for a potty break. This is very important and goes back to being proactive, routine based, and consistent. I personally would recommend the iCrate from Midwest Homes. This is the exact crate I use for my puppy and it is amazing. The iCrate comes with an adjustable panel that has allowed me to gradually increase the space my puppy has access to as he has grown. Instead of buying a new crate every other month, I just adjust the size. By showing your English Bulldog puppy where and what to do their business on you begin to create an association. Grass areas are the preferred spots to do this sort of training. The smell and texture of the grass is much different than anything in your home. After some consistency in this practice your Bulldog puppy will automatically identify grass as the place where they can relieve themselves. Use Potty Pad Alternatives Potty pads can be a way to minimize clean up in the home as well as designate a spot where your puppy goes potty. There are however much better alternatives. Potty pads are not a natural surface that your dog will find outside. As mentioned above, associating a spot like grass will create a connection for your dog. Potty pads can prolong potty training progress and be hard to wean off. Once you start removing potty pads your dog will just continue to go on the floor of the house. Alternatives like the Doggies Lawn are far better to create the association we are looking for. As well as a more natural way to train. Naturally covers up the smells, earth friendly, and lasts for weeks, unlike one time use puppy pads. This product is such a brilliant idea. This will not only teach your puppy that grass is the spot to potty, but is just so much nicer to have in your home or on your balcony compared to those stinky, ugly, and sometimes messy potty pads. Check out Doggie Lawn as a great potty pad alternative. Each and every time your puppy successfully goes potty outside you make them feel like a champion. Shower them in praise and some of their favorite treats. Show your dog that what they did is highly desired behavior. English Bulldogs are eager to please their family members. This constant and consistent positive reinforcement will teach them quickly what you are trying to accomplish. My puppy is 5 months old and accident free for a couple weeks now. I still make a huge deal of his success. Never stop while they are in training. Never Punish Accidents There are some old school opinions out there when it comes to punishing potty training failures. These techniques do not work and should be avoided completely. Not only does your dog not understand why they are being yelled at, hit, or man handled, you are creating a sense of fear. This can lead to behavioral problems down the road. Developing this fear based reaction can lead to stress, anxiety and even aggression issues. Never punish your English Bulldog puppy when they have an accident. Simply ignore them for a bit when they do. Clean up the mess, and move on. You have a chance for success in just a few hours. The only party responsible for accidents in the home is you. Try again and remain calm. Know The Potty Time Warning Signs Even when your dog is on a great routine, you are being proactive, and consistent, they will need to potty out of the blue. Knowing the warning signs of an incoming accident are important to spot and interrupt as soon as possible. One of the major signs your dog is about to relieve themselves is sniffing around an area and turning in circles. This means they are looking for a spot to potty. Immediately interrupt this behavior by distracting them or even picking them up and getting them outside. Establishing ways for your English Bulldog to alert you they need to go outside is not only a neat trick, but an effective potty training method. Things like bells at the door where you go out for breaks are great. You can teach your dog that anytime they touch and ring the bell you will get them outside. This may take a few days to teach, but once you have that line of communication open it is amazing. When potty training my Staffy she would alert me by sitting at the door and staring at the door knob. This was before I had considered bells, but it was just as effective in letting me know she needs outside. Sure your dog might abuse this just to go for a trot outside, but I would rather that than an accident inside. Remain Patient With Potty Training Patiences is going to be your greatest asset in the potty training months. It can be so easy to get frustrated and tired. Puppies are a lot of work and sometimes it seems like they never stop pooping and peeing. But remain calm, and stay patient. Losing your cool will not help your training. It can in fact hurt your progress and create a distrust or fear in your dog when you lash out. I have had to take several deep breaths many times over the past couple months potty training my puppy. Just when you think things are getting close to complete, an accident occurs. I get more upset with myself about not preventing the accident, but I have to remember this is a process and takes time. Go easy on yourself and your dog. With time and all of the tips I have listed above you will have success. These are some of the most grueling days of training, but they will pass. There are several reasons why your Bulldog keeps peeing in the house. Another factor could be health related. Things like urinary tract infections can cause frequent urination problems. If your Bulldog is peeing in the house and you are following all of the tips I have gone over in this post it may be time to visit a professional. A vet can rule out any potential infections or diseases that may be leading to constant accidents in the home. A professional dog trainer may be another option if your Bulldog is perfectly healthy. Find a highly reputable trainer in your area that has a positive reinforcement approach and plenty of positive reviews. Final Thoughts Potty training an English Bulldog can be as hard or as easy as you make it. The responsibility of successful potty training lies with you, the owner. Making the effort to set your English Bulldog puppy up for success and remaining patient with the process will lead to quicker training. Follow these tips I have outlined and see for yourself how well they can work. Even the most stubborn of English Bulldogs can pick up and follow these techniques. I have used these very tips for both of my dogs and potty training was remarkably easy. Bookmark this article. Share it to your social media. Print it out and keep it on the fridge. I promise by following what I have shared you are that much closer to potty training victory with your English Bulldog puppy. I think I will have to start putting him on a leash while inside because we're pretty good about keeping an eye on him but it seems as if it's always that 2 seconds that we aren't is when he has an accident! Since we are on the 3rd floor, we also have a potty patch on the balcony to take him out on here and there too. However, it seems to be hit or miss. Sometimse he will go out and use it just fine, other times when I know he has to go so bad, he will just lay there and chew on it! Everytime we take him out, he does what he needs to and pretty fast. He will go pee 2 seconds after getting on the grass and then walk to the spot where he likes to poo and go if he needs to. I know that if he doesn't go poo outside that he probably doesn't have to go and he has only had a couple accidents where he's pooed inside, it's mainly just peeing that's the issue. He just seems to have a pee a lot! I really can't figure out when he has to go either, he just seems to stop whatever he is doing and half a second later he is peeing wherever he is. This morning I was getting ready for work and he was in the bathroom with me and trying to tug on the shower curtain then he just stops and starts peeing on the bathroom rug where he is standing! No sniffing or anything and this was less than an hour after I had taken him out after waking up, he hadn't eaten yet or anything. It just seems like he still doesn't know he isn't supposed to go inside and just stops whatever he is doing to go, doesn't even try to hide it even though he gets scolded every time! Plenty of wipes and toilet tissue 1. Build a potty-training routine When you first start house training your English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog 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 defecate 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. Handy Hint: If you need more guidance on how much to feed your English Bully, please click here where I explain how many cups of food is enough for them , plus a feeding chart. 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 English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog 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 him to hold it until he is let outside to 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 English Bulldog breed. Learn to pick up on the signs To avoid accidents in the home, it is good to learn to recognise signs that your English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog 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 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 English Bulldog puppy? It is generally recommended to start house training your English Bulldog 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 an English Bulldog 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! Once you have potty and house trained your English Bulldog puppy he will only ever do his business outside. Conclusion Now you know how we advise you housebreak and English Bulldog 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 an English Bulldog 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 English Bulldogs who will need expert help. You might also like…. Contact Us How to house train a English bulldog puppy the right way The easiest way to go about house training your new bulldog puppy is by utilizing a crate. Dogs are and always have been den and pack animals, they naturally and instinctively prefer the shelter of a den. Therefore most dogs will not urinate or defecate in their crate, which is why it is such an invaluable tool for housebreaking. The first thing to understand, though, is the need for repetition and consistency. Begin by purchasing the appropriate size crate. Think den not condo! It should be small with just enough room for your bulldog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. It is not an exercise pen. The use of too large a crate will encourage your bulldog puppy to use a small portion of it for a bed and the rest of it as a place to potty. We use the Midwest Life Stages crates. Leave the crate door open and allow your bulldog puppy to come and go as he pleases. Keep his favorite treats handy that you only use for the crate. It gives the puppy a nice reason to go in and creates a positive experience. At mealtimes, feed your bulldog in the crate with the door closed. At night, just before bedtime take your bulldog puppy out to potty. Put your puppy in his crate and shut the door. For the first 3 nights set your alarm for 3 hours. Set him down and wait. When he goes potty, praise him and put him back in his crate. Set your alarm for 3 more hours and repeat. After three days, if it has been successful and there have been no accidents, move to 4-hour intervals. After three more nights, you have hopefully taught your puppy that you will be there to take him outside when he has to go. If there have been no accidents you can then start going to bed and waiting until your puppy wakes you up to potty. It is important to respond and take him out immediately if he wakes during the night. In the morning, as soon as you wake up, immediately take your puppy out. By house time, I mean freedom to move about but always in the same room as you so that you can keep a constant eye on him. We use baby gates to block off access to other rooms. During the day repeat the above process and continue to take the puppy out every hour. If he does not do his business put him back in his crate and try again in 15 minutes. NEVER let a bulldog puppy in training out of your site. Use the crate as you would a playpen for a human child. Even if you leave the room for a minute, either take the puppy with you or put him in the crate. If you turn your back for 60 seconds and your puppy has an accident, then you messed up and made a mistake and have missed the opportunity to make a correction and teach the puppy. Do not rub his nose in it and do not use any physical correction! When he goes outside give him lots of praise. Use an odor neutralizer. When an accident occurs it is important to completely remove the odor, otherwise your puppy will gravitate back to the area to relieve himself again. You can buy the neutralizers from most any pet store. Do not use household cleaners, most contain ammonia which will attract him back to the same spot. A Few Tips to Help You Succeed Puppies will need to go potty first thing in the morning, after every meal, as soon as they wake up from naps and just before bedtime. A few hours before bedtime take up his water, this will help buy you a litter more time between potty breaks at night. If you see him smelling a particular spot or circling around, pick him up and take him outside. Keep your puppy on a regular feeding schedule and take away his food between meals. Puppies may not initially like the crate. Some will cry, whine, bark and drive you crazy the first couple of days. Doing so will teach your puppy that if he barks or whines long enough he will get rewarded and this will only encourage the behavior. Training an English bulldog puppy takes time, consistency and patience. Dogs function best with structure, routine, and clear expectations. Share this post. Buy Now on Amazon If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. If you have access to a backyard, pick out an area where you can take them. Always encourage them and support them when you house train; using passive-aggressive tactics on a dog can create fear and insecurities. What cues will puppies give that they have to go potty? Some begin to sniff the floor. A few spin around in a circle. Some whine, fidget or head for the corner or door in the room. Once you discover the signs or cues your puppy gives, the easier it will be to get him outside at the right time for a potty break. The crate should be large enough for the puppy to turn around in and lay comfortably but not large enough that they can eliminate. If your pup does eliminate itself in the crate, it may be too large. If you start with a larger dog crate, section it off. While potty training, I would simultaneously be crate training. If I were in the immediate vicinity of the puppy and able to be vigilant in watching him, he would be outside the crate. I would also crate train a puppy to sleep in the crate. As they grew and matured, they would go in and out of their crate at their will. Because dogs do not like to relieve themselves in their sleeping area, this made potty training very easy. For one, puppies have small bladders and cannot hold their urine for long, and two; it would be cruel to do so as puppies need socialization. When you bring the puppy out of his crate, take him immediately outside to relieve himself. Once he does, be sure to pour on the praise and positive reinforcement. Take the puppy outside for potty breaks every 2 hours. This has been the method I have used over the years and has been very effective. Start with picking out an area where you want your pup to relieve themselves. Make it a habit to take them to that area to potty every 2 — 3 hours to normalize this. If your English bulldog constantly pees in their bed before getting to the solution, we need to find out the reason behind it. For the most part, your bulldog will try not to pee in their bed. A few more common reasons are urinary tract infection, hormones, emotional issues, and marking territory, which is different from potty training. A UTI in an English bulldog will lead to constant urination, urgency, blood within the urine, and improper urination. Bulldogs are more vulnerable to a UTI than most other dog breeds. The female bulldog is even more at risk than its male counterpart, even though the male can still get them. Your bulldog might be fully house trained, but having a UTI makes it hard for your dog not to urinate when the urge is there, and potty accidents can occur. Hormone Responsive Urinary Incontinence Your bulldog might pee the bed while asleep or just relaxing. This happens more with middle-aged spayed female bulldogs. Getting your female bulldog spayed means her ovaries are removed, bringing down her estrogen production levels. Low estrogen levels make it difficult for your bulldog to control the muscle that allows them to hold its urine. Over time this becomes more prevalent with age. Emotional Issues If you notice your bulldog acting out of the ordinary, they could be experiencing stress, worry, or even anxiety. Even fear, if they are afraid of something or someone at home, they might decide to stay in their bed and not leave to go potty. Some things can make your bulldog insecure; this could be a new family member or another pet. Separation anxiety is another emotion they might be experiencing. If left at home alone for long periods of time, they can become distressed and begin to urinate and leave feces within your home. But if not, a vet visit to rule out medical problems or a consultation with a certified dog trainer might be in order. English bulldogs mark their spot around the house to keep outsiders away. Usually, they start doing this when someone other than the dog owner is brought into the home, maybe a new roommate or guest. This can also happen when a new puppy or adult dog is brought into the home. But be aware that this is not the same as your bulldog wetting the bed. Hardwood Floors and Tile If you have hard floors or tiles, use a strong absorbent cloth, paper towels, or a mop to absorb the urine. You can then clean the surface to remove any lingering smell. Carpet and Furniture Carpet and furniture can absorb the urine once it hits the surface. Once you notice this happening, get some paper towels to absorb what you can from the surface, then spray some water and a few drops of soap over the urine spot. Then get another set of paper towels or napkins to get the rest of the urine you can out. Be sure to spot-check first. Odor After cleaning up after your bulldog, you might still have the smell lingering. You want to remove the odor, or your bulldog will think the area is appropriate to potty again. Baking soda is a helpful product; just spread the baking soda over the area where the urine was located. Let it rest overnight, and then use a vacuum to get the baking soda out. A final tactic you can try is vinegar. If you mix vinegar with some baking soda and put it over where the urine was located, the mixture can neutralize the smell without fading the surface of the carpet or sofa. This is helpful in cleaning and maintaining your furniture. Again, remember to spot-check. You can also find products for this in pet stores or online. Popular Posts.

How to Train a week-old Labrador Puppy? Training older dogs is quite a difficult or nearly impossible task. The age of 2 months or 8 weeks is the best time for your pup to begin its training. This is because your pup has grown enough to be independent and can also understand the cues of the owner. How to Train an 8-week-old Labrador Puppy? You must keep things simple in the beginning because the pups are already learning the behavior of their owners. Below are some basic things that you can teach to your 2-month-old Labrador puppy. Follow Me — This command can be taught by walking a few steps here and there while holding a treat. This will allow you to go out to different places or visit friends comfortably with your dog. Deject Biting — You will use 2 treats to train your dog. You can rarely use a simple punishment, like ignoring, if the biting was hard. At this age, it is assumed that a Labrador puppy is already familiar with some basic things. Hence, you can teach your canine friend some simple commands. Heal — As of now, your dog should be habitual to follow you. In this command, you will use a dog leash and grab it in your left hand. Recall — This command is used to recall a pup to repeat the previously performed training. In this command, we can use a whistle, clapping, or any other sound as a cue. More Socialization — Make your Lab more comfortable in crowded places. Also, visit friends frequently so that your pooch can become comfortable around strange people. Then, add more twists by taking an object and using the touch command so that the pup touches the target. At this age, a Lab is considered mature enough to respond to some positioning commands as well as verbal instructions. Sit and Stay — Simply use a treat while your pup is in a standing position and move it towards the floor. For teaching this command, hold the treat for some time before feeding after your pooch has sat on the ground. Fetch — A 4-month-old Labrador puppy knows how to get to a target. If the puppy goes to the object and brings it back, a treat is offered. It is recommended to use the favorite toy of your pup as the target. Stand — Take a treat and move it up while the pup is in a sitting position. For this purpose, you can use a recall command with some specific sound for it. Strengthen Earlier Trainings — You should focus on all the previous learning firmly. Spend some quality time with your puppy to make this into a strong relationship. At this age, you can start teaching your dog some advanced commands. Leave it — It is used when the dog is biting down on something and not leaving it. You can also use this command to keep your pooch safe from potential troubles. Once some sort of discipline is implemented, you can remove the treats from the training and use appreciation. Wait — This is used when your dog is running continuously or doing rigorous exercise. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commencing Marker Training your chocolate labrador pup Start Marker Training at 8 weeks of age When you take your 8 week old labrador pup to their new home, you should commence their obedience training immediately. Just repetitively say yes and give your pup a treat immediately. Then familiarise your labrador pup with a leash. Clip the leash to their collar and allow the pup to roam a little. This way they will adjust to its weight and the sensation around their neck. If you try to walk your pup straight away, they will simply resist. Don't pull and command, but rather cultivate a positive experience with a leash. Secondly, I recommend that you feed your new labrador pup with a leash attached until they learn to sit. This will establish you as the master and immediately teach the pup restraint. Do not give the food bowl to your dog without firstly bringing him under your control. Even with my mature dogs, I will not let them feed except on command. Feeding should never be random. Hold the leash close to the labrador pup's neck and push their rear end down to the seated position. When they are sitting, enthusiastically praise your pup and, only then, reward their obedience with food. Remember, food should always represent a reward for good behaviour. They hear tones and frequencies. When we train them, we are conditioning them to associate a particular sound with a response so that it means something to them. Labrador puppies like all dogs learn contextually and by consistent repetition. In this way, a labrador pup learns to associate sounds with responses and rewards. This is why you should reward your pup immediately when they have performed a command correctly, even if they did not intend to do so. In the early stages, I prefer to teach a dog to 'sit,' then move on to 'staying' before teaching them to 'come'. This is especially so while they are still a puppy. Remember that a 12 month old dog is still a pup. They are regularly hyperactive and overstimulated. The goal is to get your labrador puppy into a calm and submissive state as often as you can. Ensure you are demonstrating a calm and composed, yet assertive demeanor. When you are in charge, your labrador pup will willingly sit and look to you for direction. Exercise patience and be repetitive but don't overdo it. Remember that the time you put in now will help you bond with your young dog, even if they do not appear to be advancing quickly. It will be a very worthwhile investment in a long term relationship for years to come. Of these three basic commands, the 'stay' command will take more time to teach. When this is mastered and entrenched in your dog's obedience, it can save your dog from danger. You are teaching them associations, not English words. Sit Teaching your new labrador pup to sit should begin immediately when you take it home. Begin by feeding them on a leash. Hold the leash close to the pup's neck. Give the pup the 'sit' command, but don't reward them with food until they are sitting. In this way you have begun to condition the pup to the 'sit' command. This requires patience at meal time. Remember that a labrador pup requires 4 feeds a day for the first phase of their life. This gives you ample opportunity for repetition and reward. When the dog sits, reward them with a treat and a lot of enthusiastic praise. Each time they repeat the behaviour, reward them with a treat again. You can train your labrador pup for short intervals at any time. Carry a few small pieces of food. Call your pup, then reward them with lots of affirmation and a piece of food when they comply. Teach them to sit by offering a small treat. Say 'sit', then let them smell the food as you move your hand over their head. A labrador pup will automatically lift the nose in the air to follow the food. As the head moves up and back, the pup will tend to sit. Give lots of praise and gradually increase repetition as they associate the word 'sit' with the food. Stay Your Labrador pup will need to understand the 'sit' command before you advance to 'stay'. Before you give the 'stay' command, make sure that the dog is seated. To keep the dog in the sitting position, you will use your hand with the fingers pointing up and the palm in front of their face. To begin with, position yourself about half a metre away from your pup's face. Direct the 'stay' command calmly, with your hand up. Slowly take half a step back and remain there for 3 seconds to begin with. Then step back towards to the dog. Wait for another 3 sec and then reward your dog with a treat. Repeat this 5 times. Reward them at the end of each 'stay' routine by praising them enthusiastically and giving them a treat. Don't praise or reward the dog until they have remained seated in front of you for a minimum of 3 seconds when you return. Your puppy should not move a millimetre until you give the reward. If your dog breaks early, you have gone too far. Simply return to your dog, reset them in the seated position and begin the routine again. Come It is important to make sure your Labrador understands the 'stay' command before you begin the recall or 'come' command. Make sure you pup is seated before you give the 'come' command. As your walk away from your pup, maintain eye contact. Don't back away too far too soon. If the pup breaks early, give the 'come' command to establish association. When you call your dog to 'come', do not let them jump up on you. If the dog wants to stand on its back legs and reach up, place the palm of your hand on their head and hold it away from you. I suggest that you don't say 'no! The down command should be used as a more constructive training command. If your pup jumps up, make your disapproval known by using a 'dog' sound; 'Ahhh! If you find yourself becoming frustrated, then put the pup away and start again tomorrow. Don't take it personally and don't blame the dog. Corrections are necessary, but not out of frustration or anger. If it's not working, then look at your consistency and your communication. If the training is a positive experience then you will strengthen the bonding and learning process. Develop consistent communication and trust with your dog in the process of the training. Labrador pups love to please and they will be very proud of themselves when they accomplish the command and gain your approval. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Puppy training development after 6 months It is very tempting to get carried away with puppy training. Your young do is so willing to please and such fun to be around. It is important to go at a happy pace for you both. Positive reinforcement training is the right choice for your puppy because there are no negative consequences to getting something wrong. But you can still both suffer from burnout and frustration if you try to reach the later puppy training stages without totally aceing the earlier developments. Your Puppy Training Schedule This may not be exactly the same for each puppy, especially with retrieving which is more Labrador specific. However, it gives you a rough idea. Constantly changing direction. Stopping frequently for cuddles and rewards. This means I blow the recall whistle whenever the puppy runs towards me, no compulsion, and no whistle unless the recall is already underway. Socialisation: Lots almost daily of outings to different places rural and urban carried Visits to family and friends. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow mouthing. Working with food: Learning how to take food gently without snatching or grabbing at the treat pot. I still give the puppy lots of encouragement by running away as soon as I blow the whistle. Socialisation: More socialisation, at least twice a week to busy public places. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow gentle mouthing. Retrieving: Encourage chase and pick up retrieve drive. Hand touch: I teach all new puppies to touch my hand with their noses. This is a great foundation for other skills. Recall: Puppy recall continues, reduce my run to a walk, avoid any distractions. Still frequently blow the recall whenever the pup runs towards me of her own free will. Socialisation: From ground level after vaccination. No other leash walking at all Bite inhibition: No biting, gentle mouthing allowed. Retrieving: Continue to build drive. Positions: I introduce three positions — sit, stand, down. What to expect from your 3 month old puppy Most three month old puppies will be sleeping through the night. And will be having less potty training accidents in the house. There are a few potty training problems that arise at this age, and they are all covered in 15 potty training problems solved. Biting is a big shock and a big problem for many new Lab puppy parents so do check out our complete guide to biting , and join the forum for help and support. Help encourage your puppy to stay in their bed while you are eating. I have a pot of dog treats on our kitchen table, and whenever we sit down to a meal, the puppy gets a treat each time she steps into her basket. Just a treat for stepping in there. What to expect from your 4 month old puppy Your 4 month old puppy will be pretty much potty trained, but accidents still happen if they are left alone too long. Biting is usually starting to subside now, and many four month old puppies will be able to mouth at your hand without hurting you. At this point I start to discourage all mouthing. I teach every puppy to let me touch her face or approach her with my hand, food, a leash etc while holding eye contact and not grabbing at me, or at what is in my hand. This is the age at which people often start to push forward with training. Your 4 month old puppy is capable of quite a lot. There is nothing wrong with teaching your puppy different cues and even some tricks. I recommend you still avoid long duration activities at this point as they are a common stumbling point with puppies young enough to have a short attention span. A ten second sit is ample. Add mild distractions Recall: Fade additional cues. Begin to whistle the pup and stand still. Add mild distractions. Clicker train to polish this in more mouthy puppies. No commands are needed for this. Gradual introduction of distractions. Advanced puppy training begins in earnest This is where I start a programme of sporting training with my Labs. You can begin raising your standards and expectations, asking for longer and more complex behaviors. Teaching your puppy to walk to heel nicely for longer distance and past all kinds of distractions and temptations. Or teaching your puppy to sit and stay for longer periods of time, and even while you go out of sight or while other dogs play nearby. What to expect from your six month old puppy Six months is a common time for people to have a lot of questions and to be struggling with a few challenges. This is now a very bouncy, quite powerful and rapidly maturing young dog. And you may need to patch up a few holes in his training or manners. We have a great article for owners of six month old Lab puppies. Print Raising a retriever puppy like the pros Your Labrador puppy can seem small and fragile during those first few weeks home from the breeder. Labrador puppies will learn quickly about acceptable and unacceptable behavior those first few weeks, if you, the owner, are willing to set and enforce boundaries. Here is the training you should be working on with your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post three of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week three home Your week-old puppy has been with your family for approximately 3 weeks now. This week you should start noticing some bigger changes with your puppy. Here are some of the changes I notice with Bubba. First, she is growing fast! Bubba is almost ready for a new collar already. I have loosened her current collar twice, and there is no more room to expand it. She is also learning a lot. Bubba is also becoming more personable. She likes and has more interest in people now and wants to be petted and scratched more often. Training equipment for Lab puppy We added a couple new training tools this week. But a thicker check cord will also work. We use this check cord for longer outside marks and assistant-marks which I will discuss more in a bit. Puppy sized canvas or light-weight plastic bumpers In week two, we introduced formal retrieving in a hallway in the house. In week three, we move outside with retrieving and introduce assistant throws, so it is helpful to have a few more bumpers. Puppy training that will continue Much of the training I have been working on for the past two weeks with Bubba will continue into this week and beyond. Dog training is not something that has a definitive end-date. For instance, you teach your puppy to SIT and then you must work and practice that command daily or weekly, often for months before the response to the command is solid. But even once the response is solid, you cannot completely stop training. If you stop training, even an older dog, the dog can lose the previous training. So, realize that you are never done working with your dog, especially on obedience training. Some areas that we will continue training Bubba on are: Crate training Bubba is doing great at crate training. She rarely makes any noise while in her crate and settles down quickly after being put into her crate. In the upcoming weeks, we will work towards getting Bubba to enter her crate on command. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking Bubba is going well. We have caught her in a few accidents, but she already seems to understand that she is not supposed to go potty inside. This does not mean that she is done housebreaking. We still expect accidents and will for a few months, so we watch her carefully while she is running around in the house. We also praise her for behaviors like going to the door and tapping the door or whining at the door. These behaviors are rewarded with us taking her outside to go potty. When she goes potty outside, we praise her and then take her right back in. We want her to start understanding that these cue behaviors will get her out to go potty and that is all. Looking for more information on housebreaking? But we will also add a few new ones. We will use this while teaching our puppy the SIT command. It also will be used going forward, anytime we are done working on structured obedience work. We will release the dog from formal work with the OKAY command. But we also use it to mean go to a certain place, such as on a mat or stand. Or, when we want her to go into her crate or kennel. This is an associative command, meaning the puppy will learn the command through our repetition of the word as we tie it to a behavior. But over time, she will make the association and will perform it on her own. This is very important especially if you ever plan on doing more advanced training with your retriever. You will use whatever your dogs name is. A few commands that we will continue to work on this week We will continue to work on obedience commands this week and in the weeks to come. Each week we will expect a little more and better compliance and performance to the command. She is sitting when I put the leash and chain collar on her and when I am taking it off. This week we also added SIT before eating. We only make her SIT for a few seconds; we are working on control. She does not SIT on her own yet, but she will be doing that within a week or so I would guess. Right now, I grab her collar and say SIT. In week three, I have a slightly higher expectation. On walks, I make her walk right beside me for a minute or two using the HEEL command before releasing her and letting her run back and forth a bit. This tells me that she understands the command. Then release her. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. So, call her, praise her when she comes and release. Remember: Never use a HERE command if you are not in the position of being able to enforce the command. Make every effort to socialize your puppy You should continue to take steps to socialize your week-old puppy. Anything you can think of. The more things and situations you expose your puppy to, the better your puppy will be equipped to adjust and learn in the future. Learn more about socialization. Hand throws with a puppy bumper you are throwing out a bumper done outside will carry a lot more distraction than retrieves in a hallway. Just pick up the bumper and try again tomorrow. When retrieving outside, make sure you have a long foot rope attached to your puppy. Never try to do retrieves outside without a rope. You will have problems and encourage bad behaviors. You must have a way to get the puppy to come back to you, otherwise you should not be doing retrieves outside. Once your puppy is doing well retrieving outside, you are ready to introduce assistant marks. Introduction to assistant marks The most important thing we worked on with Bubba this week is assistant marks. Assistant marks are retrieves where someone else is throwing the bumper, not you. This teaches your puppy to watch out in the field for a mark. It is very rare that a duck will come from behind you, fly over your head and you shoot it. The ducks and pheasants will be falling in front of you, so the dog must learn to look out and watch for the mark. We start assistant marks on very short grass with white plugs so that the puppy can clearly see the item on the ground. We hold the puppy in a SIT position facing a thrower who is about 20 feet from you. When your puppy picks up the bumper, immediately start calling her back to you. Remember, you should have the foot check cord on her so you can pull the puppy in if needed. Then, take the bumper from her, throw it behind you, make your puppy sit facing the thrower again and repeat. Only do retrieves and then call it a day. Soon your puppy will learn this game and love it. They will start facing the thrower on their own and sitting and waiting for a mark. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy week-old puppies are so eager to learn, so be sure and take advantage of this enthusiasm to teach new concepts and enforce previous ones. Continue to teach your puppy to handle more and more pressure and correction while maintaining a good attitude. Lastly, assistant marks are a big deal. Once a dog learns this part of the game, you can work to increase the distance and complexity of the marks. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Print Preparing for the teething stage If you have been following my puppy training program since the beginning, you will have some down time for the next month or so. This is not to mean that you will not be working with your puppy at all, but only means that you will not be adding any new training. For the next month or two, you should continue working on basic obedience. I will discuss this more later in the post but Here is the training for your 4-month-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post eight of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Bubba Training and socialization for four-month-old Labrador puppy Here are the things we worked on during the past two weeks while training Bubba. Working on self-control and restraint If you have ever been pushed out of the way as your large dog rushes to get outside or inside ahead of you, you know how that feels. It can be downright dangerous, and there is no reason to allow it. You can start eliminating these future problems by spending time now, teaching your 4-month-old puppy to have self-control and restraint. There is a vast array of situations that you can use to teach your puppy self-control. The first and easiest one to teach is sitting before eating. Simply do not give your puppy their food until they SIT calmly. Here are some other opportunities. Sitting before getting a leash on and off Sitting by door, waiting to go outside or inside, until released from SIT Staying in crate or kennel until released, even with door open All these training opportunities work toward the same thing — self-control. There are probably many more situations that would also apply, use your imagination, and teach your puppy to listen and exert restraint in all situations. Bubba has learned all these lessons well. She understands that she must wait for a release command and that if she SITS very still the release comes sooner. Obedience training your 4-month-old puppy We continue to work on obedience training using a chain collar and heeling stick. Bubba has come a long way regarding heeling. She is not perfect, but she does understand the command. However, remote SIT is not going well. Bubba really struggles to SIT still, even for a few seconds. I had to be reminded that Bubba is a chocolate lab. Chocolate labs tend to mature much slower than blacks or yellows, and Bubba is proving that to be true. Given this, Bubba will probably need some more maturity before I can expect too much from her on obedience. Well, let me rephase. Bubba knows the HERE command but still struggles to respond to it consistently. This is a huge source of contention for me, but again, Bubba is a chocolate and is very immature. A halt on retrieving Up until now we have been doing retrieving daily with Bubba, but as she enters the fourth month, we are increasing aware that she will be teething very soon. Because of this, we will be stopping retrieving until we can confirm that all her adult teeth are in. This concerns a lot of owners; they are concerned that their puppy will forget how to retrieve or will stop wanting to retrieve. We have never had this happen. Final thoughts on training for your 4-month-old Labrador puppy As your puppy approaches four months of age, it is good to take a moment to reflect on all the progress you have made in terms of training. These are important steps that will lead your puppy down a path of becoming a happy, healthy family dog and hunting companion. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Training your 4-month-old Labrador puppy? You should take your puppy outdoors and let him exercise his socialization potential at a young age. Visiting friends and family is one way to go about it. You can also spot a dog park and carry him there. Remember that your pet is still learning to follow directions and walk with you. You cannot expect him to cover long distances. The best way to avoid this is to take them far enough from the house and ensure they have a positive outside experience. It is worth noting that you should do this as often as you can, preferably daily. Start Potty Training It would be best to start potty training your Lab puppy the first day you bring him home. Start by showing your pup where you want him to potty, such as a sectioned-off area of your yard or garden. A good idea is to cordon off a small area and add some bark chippings. Next, you need a potty training schedule such as first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, and hourly for young pups. Many owners use dog crates to help with house training. I have a step-by-step guide on Labrador puppy crate training where you can learn tons more. Discourage Biting If you follow my blog, you know I am against punishment-oriented training. If you train your dog young enough to avoid harsh bites, you will not need punishment-driven discipline strategies. In any case, using physical force or yelling at your pup will only instill fear and distrust and can cause aggression in your dog. You can also check out my article, How to Discipline a Labrador , for greater insight into this topic. Instead, you can wait until your Labrador bites during a positive activity and then discontinue it. It will anchor the consequence better. Follow up using positive reinforcement by rewarding the correct behavior with a treat. Your Labrador will quickly learn that displaying good behavior reaps nice things. Puppies need to learn their bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the excellent work their mother and siblings taught them. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Instill Patience You must use your best judgment when training your dog to be patient. Generally speaking, your Labrador will be mature enough to learn self-control by the tenth week. You can use a clicker or a whistle to teach your puppy to assume the natural heel position. Chances are, at first, your Labrador will try to change his pace to be behind you because of the force of habit. Walking in areas familiar to your dog will eliminate this problem. While you previously trained him to assume a heel position, you can also teach him these techniques. You may notice that your puppy can tell your words apart by the thirteenth week. So by the time he is four months old, you can use the position cues and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow. These included whistling, clapping, or saying a specific word to indicate that your Labrador is doing a good job, typically followed by a well-deserved treat. Now is the time to see whether the anchors work! Where you previously whistled when your Lab ran towards you, now you must whistle, so he begins his run. This is the start of his Labrador recall training. Teaching good recall is an ongoing process. My dog was around 12 months old before seeing a noticeable improvement in her recall. Please avoid forcing the dog, as that only introduces confusion. Build Comfort With Crowds — Work on Socialization You have trained your Labrador to acknowledge close friends and family in the past few weeks. While this enables the puppy to be more social when you have visitors, a grown dog must learn to walk outdoors without acting out. This transition must be gradual, and try to keep experiences positive. Whether it is a cuddle, a pat, attention, or something tasty, you must teach your pup target training , for example, to touch a target with a specific part of his body. Remember that your Lab may end up biting or clawing to communicate if you do not teach him more acceptable communication methods. Here, I recommend teaching your Labrador to touch your hand with his nose. Ultimately, this is an excellent replacement for bites! Hand targeting is fun to teach, helps your pup build trust, and gets him using his brain! You have laid a strong foundation of discipline and positive reinforcement, making it easier to train your dog to follow more complex commands. In these weeks, you will introduce him to assuming different positions, obeying your commands as he moves away from you, and reacting to more nuanced anchors. Remember, 4-month-old Labrador puppies have a short attention span, so avoid long training sessions. Teach the Sit and Stay Teaching your Lab to sit and stay is a useful command for him to learn. Train Your Dog to Fetch If you have taken your Labrador to public parks and he has seen other dogs play fetch, it will be easier to teach him to retrieve whatever you throw. Your Labrador may not bring the toy back to you for a second round, but he will soon get the idea of retrieving it. You can gradually turn it into a game of fetch over the next few weeks and reward your doggo with high-value training treats. Continue Potty Training In the fourth month of Labrador training, you will continue potty training with a degree of independence. Continue with a good schedule and sync your walks with his natural cycle to align with the times he needs to go. You can use it to control your Labrador and later to test his ability to execute a command off-leash. A harness is also a good idea and is used for outdoor training and walks. Many owners will opt for a rear-attaching harness. Related: Harness vs. Collar for Lab Puppy: Which is Best? How to Train a 5-Month-Old Lab Puppy A five-month-old Labrador puppy is ready to be tested for his general obedience and the ability to deal with distractions, whether other dogs, people, or other animals such as squirrels or birds. Earlier, I mentioned that you could not expect an eight-week-old puppy to delay gratification. Your puppy can deal with distractions at five months old if you introduce them slowly. You must be prepared for your dog to run ahead of you now! However, suppose you have developed a solid relationship with your pup and worked on his training. In that case, he will stay within a reasonable distance, remaining by your side and showing loyalty. Once your Lab puppy has reached his 6-month milestone, it also marks the point where you introduce him to advanced obedience training. The good news is that all the training you have previously given will make it easier for your dog to follow your lead. Conclude Potty Training Your dog has had months to learn how to communicate his need to go potty. He has also likely refined the patience to hold it instead of relieving himself on the floor. Therefore, you can communicate your disappointment with your body language if your dog makes a mess. Avoid physical punishment and even verbal chastising as it impacts your dog negatively. All dogs can still have the odd accident up to 12 months old. Moreover, you must be prepared for your dog to relieve himself indoors if he is excited or frightened, known as either excitement or submissive urination. Increase Exercise Now that your Lab puppy is six months old, you can increase his exercise to thirty minutes twice daily. Energy levels, especially for larger breed dogs, escalate during this time. While the average exercise for a pup before this is generally five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, a six-month-old Labrador can be out for one hour if you split his walks into thirty minutes a day. To train your 6-month-old Lab puppy, start with two commands with the most practical use. From six months onwards, until your Labrador is a well-trained adult, you can teach the following commands or tricks in any order. How to Train a 7-Month-Old Labrador As your Lab progresses to seven months old, a lot of the previous training needs to be kept consistent as you gradually teach him to comprehend more commands. Maybe there is a trespasser, and you want your dog to scare them away. You will need to continue training your dog to hold things or release them on command, but you can also proceed to add distance and even more background distractions. Ironically, you need to teach him to bark on command before learning to be silent on cue. Over this month, he will learn to associate the respective commands with barking and silence. This is quite tricky, but your Lab will eventually get there if you practice and stay consistent. The eighth month is ideal for training your Lab to go to different places upon hearing the command word. Either way, do not overload him with place commands, and stick to no more than two per month. Or you can use the ninth month to teach a cool party trick! After a week, you can remove the treat and teach your Lab to follow your finger. Of course, you will still need to reward him after he follows the command. By the third week, you can cue your doggo to spin and see if he does so without your finger guiding him in a circular motion. It might take an extra week or two, but I recommend this as an addition in the ninth month because it allows you to continue training your pet to learn previous commands better. You can teach him to go to different places, hold or release objects, and fetch toys. You can now progress this further and teach him to roll over on command. Your 1-year-old Labrador only learns to comprehend more at the same pace as he has since the 6-month mark. You should also audit previously taught commands and see any weak associations you can reinforce. How to Train an Month-Old Labrador You will not have to alter your training regimen dramatically if you have trained your Labrador properly from eight weeks onward. If anything, this is the period where you customize his training to your convenience. Now is when your dog must learn to be compatible with your life. From the month mark onwards, you must train your dog to be harmonious with modern adult life within reason. It is sad to see dog owners having to give away their pets because of behavior issues. Such things are avoidable if you train your dog correctly and sufficiently exercise him. It would be best if you simply established authority by having a positive yet commanding presence. Once your dog acknowledges your authority and sees you as a guide, you can merely treat him as a six-month-old, albeit on an accelerated schedule, and train him accordingly. Your job becomes even easier once you have a workable training schedule and stick to your routine. This month-by-month Labrador puppy training schedule will help you successfully train your doggo and turn him into the beloved companion you always desired. Good luck with your training! Related Posts You May Like:.

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They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! Hi meet loco - 4 months old in this pic Our EB puppy is 7 months old tomorrow and from 5 months old all of a sudden he started getting pink skin on his white areas especially on his forehead and below his neck, down his legs. We saw a vet and they said possible skin condition dermatitis. He was then given 10 days worth of antibiotics and medicated shampoo. This has not helped. Some days its not as red as others but since this started hes been letting off a horrible smell and I was him once a week due to this with his medicated shampoo He doesnt go mad to itch at all so it doesnt seem to bother him but it doesnt look healthy. We then travelled for hours to see a bulldog specialist who said he wanted to rule out 'mites' as around the same time as this happening he started getting lumps all over his body come and go. Does anyone else have this problem? We have only switched food once and if these new antibiotics dont work then we have to be reffered to Cambridge University to see a skin specialist to rule out allergies. I'm not OCD.Staff member. The neck should be solid; shoulders should be well muscled and well defined. Elbows should be in line with the dog's shoulders and feet. The musculature is not extreme or bulging as to allow for agility, quickness and endurance. The coat is coarse with slight feathering on backs of hind legs. Black-only pigmentation and spotting is found on the skin, around the eyes, on the nose and lips and the genitalia. The head is square with noticeable or moderate stop. Supra-orbital arches pronounced with a center crease between the eyes to the back of the head. Bite: Scissor, reverse scissor to 1" under at most. The ears are rolled or flapped. The eyes can be any shade of brown, amber okay; blue is considered a fault in the breed. The feet are round and compact with noticeable webbing between toes. When the tail is not docked, it is thick at the base and feathered at the end. Temperament The White English Bulldog is a family and livestock protection dog. It is a controller and retriever of the roughest livestock, even in wetlands. It suffices as an all-around hunter from treeing squirrels to bears. A very old and extremely rare breed in its true form, the WEB is a medium to large dog bred as an all-around farm and stock dog, specifically for protection of such. It is loyal and fiercely protective of its master, the master's family, property, livestock and especially the children. As with all dogs, be sure you are this dog's true pack leader , and it will be submissive to its handlers. The WEB is not bred to be a hunting dog, though it suffices adequately. Height, Weight Height: Females 20 - 24 inches 51 - 70 cm Males 21 - 25 inches 53 - 63 cm Weight: Females: 55 - 85 pounds 25 - 39 kg Males 65 - pounds .Living Conditions Living conditions are described as those for a farm dog: large, open areas with free run. Most do not do well in kennels or indoors. These dogs need to work and perform their duties. Exercise Needs a job to do. If the dog is in between jobs, for example, between hunting seasons, it needs to be taken for at least a long daily walk. Life Expectancy. Caring for wrinkled skin Does Color Change Temperament? But the truth is that there have been no conclusive studies proving such myth. A dog who is properly socialized, exercised and trained will more likely than not grow up to be happy, healthy and well-behaved. White English Bulldogs often are happy, calm companions despite their sometimes fiercesome looking faces. They have a loyal nature and do well with families and other household pets, although they can be protective over toys and food. English Bulldogs are eager to please, which makes training them quite a fun experience. They love making their people proud and learn best with positive reinforcement such as food and praise. This wide-mouthed breed can also be known to chew, and the habit can be destructive to furniture and clothing. White English Bulldog Health Lighter colored coats have been known to correlate with congenital deafness in dogs. A squat build, squishy face and curled tail can all lead to trouble. This can cause respiratory distress, excessive panting, snoring, heat intolerance and more. They are also very prone to dental, eye, joint and back problems as a result of their build. You can opt to bath him occasionally with a high-quality dog shampoo. But be careful not to bathe him too often or too little, as doing so can cause an imbalance in his pH levels and result in skin issues. Skin Care Brush the English Bulldog at least two or three times a week to help keep loose hair at bay, and help stimulate healthy skin and fur. Cute, signature wrinkles on your English Bulldog need to be cleaned regularly. The goal is to avoid the risks of debris buildup, which can lead to irritation, skin issues, and infection. You can keep the folds in your English Bulldog clean by using an unscented baby wipe or grooming wipe. Wipe him down two or three times a week during his regular brushing. Of course, like all dogs, the English Bulldog needs his nails trimmed regularly to keep them from cracking or splitting. His ears should be checked and cleaned often to keep waxy buildup, moisture and debris from leading to ear infections. Consider A Shelter Dog English Bulldogs are best suited for more experienced dog owners who are aware and prepared for the severity of their long list of health issues. We also recommend that, instead of buying from a breeder, owners opt to adopt an adult English Bulldog from a shelter. Adopting an adult white English Bulldog can give you a better insight into any health problems he has. This will likely lead to fewer surprises both financially and emotionally. Protein Chicken, lamb, turkey, beef, fish, yogurt and cooked eggs Builds and repairs muscles and other body tissues. Needed to make new skin cells, grow hair, hormones, enzymes and more. Carbohydrates Oats, brown rice, potatoes, and whole wheat Source of energy for dogs and supplies glucose needed by the brain, nervous system and other critical organs for normal function. Fat From meats and oils such as olive or sunflower oil, fish oil, canola oils among others Responsible for providing quality energy, growth and development. Supports the function of body cells, nerves, muscles, and tissues. Minerals Calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, iron, zinc, etc. Common functions include the formation of bone and cartilage, nerve and muscle function, fluid balance regulation, the transportation of oxygen in the bloodstream and hormone production. Water Water Hydration is critical in dogs. Ensure they have water available throughout the day. Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K Keeps skin and coat healthy, strengthens bones and teeth, and gives them the overall energy that they need to function. Typically, English Bulldogs thrive on a diet for medium size dogs. For instance, a White English Bulldog that weighs 50 lbs will typically require calories per day. You will need to split the total daily calories into different meals throughout the day—usually, 2 or 3 cups per day of or calories each. Other Nutrition Health-Related Tips To help with allergies and coat problems, White English Bulldogs sing a couple of squirts of fish oil to their meals will provide relief and nourishment to keep their skin and coats in good condition. Eye health is critical in this breed. Daily eye care bites like Zesty Paws Eye Supplement and dog eye drops for long-lasting corneal protection and hydration can promote good eye health for your four-legged buddy. They need only a moderate amount of exercise. White English Bulldogs need between 20 to 40 minutes of exercise, brisk walking and playtime daily are ideal. The best environment for Bulldogs to exercise in is in temperate climates as this breed overheats fast. They also get agitated much quicker than other dogs and can have breathing difficulties when excited. So, avoid strenuous exercise. English Bulldogs are not built for that. Low to regular-intensity exercises and a healthy diet will keep your Bulldog happy and healthy. Swimming may be risky for English Bulldogs because their bulky body and short limbs make swimming much more difficult. You will need to supervise them if you want them to swim. Mental stimulation is also crucial. But, if you are dedicated to training your Bulldog, they can learn tricks and commands. It just takes them more time to learn. Puppy training classes are highly recommended for English Bulldogs. There are two essential training aspects you should focus on from a young age with your English Bulldog. They are moderate shedders, so keeping their coats clean free of dead hair and tidy is essential. Deshedding Frequency English Bulldogs shed more than average twice a year, in spring and fall. During these times, use a de-shedding brush to prevent excessive shedding and keep your house hair-free. Bathing your White English Bulldogs once a month or every six to eight weeks is probably plenty. You can give them another bath if they smell or get super dirty. A crucial part of bathing your Bulldog is washing the wrinkles on its body and face. You need to keep these skin folds clean and check them regularly to ensure the skin is clean and dry, as food, dirt, or moisture can get trapped and cause irritation or infection. Use a wrinkle paste to clean the wrinkles. Never use it near the eyes. Clean the area under the tail as well. This could cause skin irritation, and frequent baths could damage their coat and trigger skin allergies. Look for a shampoo that is gentle and moisturizing for sensitive dog skin. Are bulldogs afraid of water? Only needs a quick bath? Waterless dog shampoo is a great alternative to bathing. Clean their ears weekly to prevent infection, excess moisture, or wax build-up. Oral Care English Bulldogs suffer from a condition known as underbite or canine malocclusion aka dog underbite. Dogs with this condition often develop excessive tartar, trouble chewing, calculus build-up, and other oral health-related issues. Adding a dog dental treat will also help keep their pearly whites in good health. If we want to put this into perspective, a German Shepherd or Labrador takes fewer than 5 repetitions to learn a new command. However, other tests revealed English Bulldogs have high adaptive and instinctive intelligence. They can learn just as much as your average dog with the proper training and conditioning. Due to the wide-ranging and severe pre-natal health risks affecting English Bulldogs, artificial insemination and cesarean sections are often required. Litter sizes tend to be small and have congenital diseases such as flat chests with splayed legs, anasarca water babies , and cleft palate. Although some English bulldogs enjoy reasonable health, their lifespan is shortened by the potential medical conditions they are prone to. If you are a White English bulldog Breeder, you need to be aware of some of the most common health conditions affecting the English Bulldog breed and do your best to breed such issues out of their bloodline. Ensure the female and male come from healthy bloodlines and wait until they are two years old and after their second heat cycle. They need the proper time to recover. You should expect a litter size of between 3 and 4 puppies. You have two options: breeders or adopting. Here are some of the best places to find White English Bulldogs for sale and what to look for before you get one. White English Bulldog Breeder A reputable breeder should be able to provide the following: Record of health testing i. Avoid breeders who are unwilling to disclose any medical records, refuse to accept credit card payments, use stock photos, and seem uncooperative. Try meeting the puppy in person before buying. The first place to look is your local breeder in your city or state. The best place to find White English Bulldog puppies for sale is online or on social media. Here are two breeders that can jumpstart your search:. These heritable health issues have not decreased the popularity of the breed. Potential owners should be prepared for the cost associated with treating English Bulldog health problems. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome Breeding to enhance the distinctive upturned and flat face of English Bulldogs has resulted in the leading cause of their illness and potential death. This is known as Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome. Scientists believe that all English Bulldogs are impacted by this disorder to some extent. This leads to snoring, over heating, loud breathing, difficult or rapid breathing, and even sudden death. Life for brachycephalic dogs is generally uncomfortable, even when at rest. They will even try to sleep sitting up in order to breathe better. Corktail A curly or screw-shaped tail formation on an English Bulldog presents two major concerns. These are hygiene and spinal deformities. Similar to deep skin wrinkles, the screw tail must be kept very clean and dry. The curly tail can trap feces and dirt, leading to irritation and infection. Beyond the dirty work, English Bulldogs with screw tails are at risk of misshapen spinal bones. It may also be difficult for the English Bulldog to groom himself or he may experience pain. Surgery can correct spinal compression. If possible, be sure to check if either parent suffered from this affliction because it may be passed down. This goes for any dog with white coloration, The light coloration allows UV rays to reach the skin more easily. Short hairs exacerbate this risk further. This results in sunburn. You should apply pet-friendly sunscreen to a white English Bulldog when spending prolonged periods of time outdoors. You should avoid dog walking on sunny days anyway. It can exacerbate their breathing problems. This means that improving the health of the breed will be difficult. Hope is not completely lost for this beloved breed. Breeders, veterinarians, and scientists are working together to help the English Bulldog breed may make a healthy recovery. Be sure to check credentials and reviews to ensure you are supporting healthy bulldog breeding! These dogs had large heads and powerful jaws. Not to mention a cantankerous temper. This vicious sport was outlawed in the s. Then, they were bred to be companion animals. These days, English Bulldogs are greatly admired for being friendly and agreeable. All-white coloration is a standard variation of the breed. As a result, you can expect a dog as outgoing, gentle, and courageous as their marked or multicolored counterparts. As with any pet, socialization and training are vital. This will ensure your white English Bulldog remains a good-natured companion. White English Bulldog Grooming The sleek and smooth coat of a white English Bulldog should be groomed two to three times per week. Grooming is best done with a soft-brush. Be aware that an English Bulldog sheds regularly. This will ensure the skin is dry and clean. Trapped moisture or food particles can cause skin infection or irritation. Baby powder or cornstarch absorbs moisture after cleaning. If an English Bulldog has a twisted tail, the area under the tail needs to be clean and dry. This goes for the wrinkles too. Activities for English Bulldogs English bulldogs can be mistaken for lazy animals. This is due to their overall laid back nature. While they are happy to relax, they also enjoy walks and play. Regular activity along with a moderate diet will help them keep a healthy weight. Heavy exercise should be avoided on hot days. The short English Bulldog muzzle can cause breathing issues. Certainly, climbing stairs can be challenging, especially for English Bulldog puppies. Their front-heavy build can set them off-balance. As a result, they may fall down stairs. Helping puppies learn proper stair descents, as well as supervision, can prevent falls. These dogs are very happy to splash around in shallow water. However, deep pools are a different story. Heavy breathing can cause rapid inhalation of water. This may result in drowning. These are shared with their colorful counterparts. The potential in White English Bulldogs for deafness is there however. The health problems every English Bulldog faces gives them a short and uncomfortable lifespan compared with the average dog. Therefore, we recommend rescuing an older English Bulldog if your heart is set. In addition, you can give a dog in need a new lease on life by rescuing or adopting. Have you got an English Bulldog? Let us know in the comments! Take a look below.

A puppy's diet must be able to provide enough energy and quality protein to support growth and be easily digestible. To help them feel secure, and avoid upsetting their digestion, give them the same food, preferably at the same times, in the same place, using the same bowl. To make our formulas as appealing as possible, we: Select ingredients rigorously for their aroma, density, and texture as well as nutritional quality. Design kibble texture, shape, and size to suit each size of dog. Preserve formulas for freshness. So we ensure our formulas are highly digestible to help avoid stomach upsets and make it easier for your puppy to absorb the nutrients. Explore Puppy Range How much should I feed my puppy? Puppies have different nutritional needs according to their breed and eventual adult size. Ask your vet for help checking the expected adult weight of your puppy according to their breeding. You can then choose the right food for them and make sure you give it to them in the right quantities. What are the size categories for dogs? Dogs are categorized in five different sizes: X-small — up to 4kg when adult Small — up to 10kg when adult Medium — 11kg to 25kg when adult Large — 26kg to 44kg when adult Giant — over 45kg when adult Why is puppy food tailored to adult dog sizes? Breeds of different sizes have different needs as puppies. Medium breeds tend to be more active outdoors so need plenty of energy and helping building their natural defenses. Large and giant breeds grow slower and need less energy per pound of bodyweight than small breeds. What if I give food designed for different-sized breeds? Without taking your puppy's expected adult size into account, it's easy to feed them too much or too little. Underfeeding can lead to issues including malnutrition and stunted growth. While overfeeding can make your puppy overweight, which can cause painful bone and joint problems, difficulty breathing, and more. Does portion size matter for puppies? This is particularly crucial for large breed dogs, as overfeeding can cause them to grow too quickly and develop skeletal problems. Always refer to the portion recommendations on the pack and weigh each meal carefully. Setting the right puppy feeding schedule Puppies have small stomachs and their immature digestive systems don't react well to being overloaded. To help your puppy avoid suffering from disorders such as diarrhea, it's best to split their daily recommended food portion into small meals throughout the day. Smaller breed dogs reach adulthood sooner than others, so they can move to fewer meals a day at an earlier stage. What is mixed feeding for puppies? Mixed feeding is when you give your puppy a combination of wet and dry food — either at the same time or at separate meals. They both offer important benefits such as wet food helping with hydration and appealing to picky eaters. Dry food can slow down fast eaters. Palatability Our wet formulas are designed to be highly appealing to the fussiest of puppies. When should I begin mixed feeding? Puppies can start mixed feeding at any time, but introducing them to variety at an early age may avoid fussy behavior in adulthood. A dog's digestive tract becomes accustomed to the composition and type of food. The amount your puppy needs to drink depends on factors including the environmental temperature and their size, exercise levels, physical condition, and diet. The best way to ensure your puppy drinks the right amount is to give them constant access to fresh water. Change the water in their bowls daily to keep it clean and top it off throughout the day. Also wash their bowls daily to prevent the potential of parasites breeding in them. Then they always have the opportunity to drink in a quiet place. Make sure the water bowls aren't too big for your puppy to avoid them stepping into them. And avoid plastic water bowls as they can harbor off-putting smells and bacteria — ceramic or stainless steel bowls are best. Here are some good habits to establish straightaway to help your puppy build positive associations with feeding times and get the nutrients they need. What How Maintain portion control To avoid overfeeding your puppy, check the dietary guidelines on the food packaging and measure each portion carefully. Remember the stated amounts apply for the whole day, not per meal. Avoid human food Dogs have different nutritional needs from humans and what's good for us can cause serious stomach upsets or other illnesses in dogs. Giving your puppy scraps or hand feeding can also cause bad behavior. Limit how many you give and always offer them at the right time for the right reason. Limit activity before and after feeding To prevent stomach upsets, try to avoid your puppy jumping about for an hour or two after eating. Keep feeding times calm Distractions can divert your puppy from their food, so keep their feeding area quiet. Watch them while they're eating to check they're safe, but don't fuss over them — it can cause protective behavior. Set the pace If your puppy eats their food too fast, try a slow-feed bowl or feeding puzzle. How to change your puppy's food Sudden changes in your puppy's diet can give them digestive upsets or even make them wary of their food. Whether you're switching to adult food, changing products, or beginning mixed feeding, it's important to introduce new foods slowly. The amount of food your puppy needs depends on the size they'll grow into as an adult — x-small, small, medium, large, or giant. Make sure you choose the right puppy food according to their expected adult size and always follow the portion recommendations on the pack. When should I stop feeding puppy food? A puppy needs to continue eating specialized puppy food until they've fully transitioned into adulthood. For smaller breeds this can be as early as eight months, but for larger breeds it can be up to two years. Check with your vet to make sure your puppy's ready to move onto adult food. When can puppies eat dry food? Puppies can start to eat dry kibbles when weaning, which begins at around four or five weeks. But to make them easier for very small puppies to eat and digest, it's best to soften them with water initially. What foods are poisonous for a puppy? Many of the foods that are healthy or enjoyable for us can be poisonous for dogs and puppies. Is homemade food better for puppies? Homemade food may not be the best for your puppy as it's difficult to ensure the nutritional balance they need. It also perishes faster and tends to be more expensive and time-consuming to make. Good-quality, manufactured puppy food is tailored to your puppy's specific needs and includes the convenience of both dry kibbles and wet food in cans or pouches. How do I check if my puppy's the right weight? Keeping an eye on your puppy's weight is useful to make sure they're growing, but the body condition score gives a clearer picture of whether they're overweight or underweight. This is important to know as both can cause health issues. The body condition score focuses on the look and feel of your puppy to assess whether they're a healthy shape. Your vet can show you how to score your puppy. Do puppies need supplements? If you choose the right high-quality food, manufactured specifically for your puppy's needs, it should provide all the nutrients they need without having to give them supplements. It's always worth checking with your vet though about your puppy's individual dietary needs. Should dogs and puppies only eat meat? Although dogs are often considered to be carnivores, they would eat their prey whole in the wild. By eating the guts of their herbivorous and omnivorous prey, they would eat some vegetable matter too. Puppy feeding quiz. The nutrients needed in a puppy's diet There are a range of vital nutrients that your puppy needs during the first months of life to aid healthy growth and development. A puppy's diet must be able to provide enough energy and quality protein to support growth and be easily digestible. We develop our foods in close collaboration with breeders, vets and nutritionists. As well as focusing on the exceptional nutritional quality of our formulas, we also ensure the following key factors. To make our formulas as appealing as possible, we: Select ingredients rigorously for their odour, density and texture as well as nutritional quality. Design kibble texture, shape and size to suit each size of dog. Preserve formulas. So we ensure our formulas are highly digestible to help avoid stomach upsets and make it easier for your puppy to absorb the nutrients. View puppy range How much should I feed my puppy? Puppies have different nutritional needs according to their breed and eventual adult size. Ask your vet for help checking the expected adult weight of your puppy according to their breeding. You can then choose the right food for them and make sure you give it to them in the right quantities. What are the size categories for dogs? Dogs are categorised in five different sizes: X-small — up to 4kg when adult Small — up to 10kg when adult Medium — 11kg to 25kg when adult Large — 26kg to 44kg when adult Giant — over 45kg when adult Why is puppy food tailored to adult dog sizes? Breeds of different sizes have different needs as puppies. Medium breeds tend to be more active outdoors so need plenty of energy and helping building their natural defences. Large and giant breeds grow slower and need less energy per kilo of bodyweight than small breeds. What if I give food designed for different sized breeds? Underfeeding can lead to issues including malnutrition and stunted growth. While overfeeding can make your puppy overweight, which can cause painful bone and joint problems, difficulty breathing and more. Does portion size matter for puppies? This is particularly crucial for large breed dogs, as overfeeding can cause them to grow too quickly and develop skeletal problems. Always refer to the portion recommendations on the pack and weigh each meal carefully. Smaller breed dogs reach adulthood sooner than others, so they can move to fewer meals a day at an earlier stage. To help them feel secure, and avoid upsetting their digestion, give them the same food, preferably at the same times, in the same place, using the same bowl. What is mixed feeding for puppies? Mixed feeding is when you give your puppy a combination of wet and dry food — either at the same time or at separate meals, but never in the same bowl. They both offer important benefits such as wet food helping with hydration and appealing to picky eaters. While dry food can slow down fast eaters. Palatability Our wet formulas are designed to be highly appealing to the fussiest of puppies. When should I begin mixed feeding? Puppies can start mixed feeding at any time, but introducing them to variety at an early age may avoid fussy behaviour in adulthood. A dog's digestive tract becomes accustomed to the composition and type of food. The amount your puppy needs to drink depends on factors including the environmental temperature and their size, exercise levels, physical condition and diet. The best way to ensure your puppy drinks the right amount is to give them constant access to fresh water. Change the water in their bowls daily to keep it clean and top it up throughout the day. Also wash their bowls daily to prevent parasites breeding in them. Then they always have the opportunity to drink in a quiet place. And avoid plastic water bowls as they can harbour off-putting smells and bacteria — ceramic or stainless steel bowls are best. Here are some good habits to establish straightaway to help your puppy build positive associations with feeding times and get the nutrients they need. What How Maintain portion control To avoid overfeeding your puppy, check the dietary guidelines on the food packaging and measure each portion carefully. Remember the stated amounts apply for the whole day, not per meal. Giving your puppy scraps or hand feeding can also cause bad behaviour. Limit how many you give and always offer them at the right time for the right reason. Limit activity before and after feeding To prevent stomach upsets, try to avoid your puppy jumping about for an hour or two after eating. Feed your puppy after you As dogs are pack animals, they need to know the hierarchy. Keep feeding times calm Distractions can put your puppy off their food, so keep their feeding area quiet. Set the pace If your puppy bolts their food, try a slow-feed bowl or feeding puzzle. Make sure you choose the right puppy food according to their expected adult size and always follow the portion recommendations on the pack. When should I stop feeding puppy food? For smaller breeds this can be as early as eight months, but for larger breeds it can be up to two years. When can puppies eat dry food? Puppies can start to eat dry kibbles when weaning, which begins at around four or five weeks. What foods are poisonous for a puppy? Many of the foods that are healthy or enjoyable for us can be poisonous for dogs and puppies. Is homemade food better for puppies? It also perishes faster and tends to be more expensive and time-consuming to make. This is important to know as both can cause health issues. Your vet can show you how to score your puppy. Do puppies need supplements? Should dogs and puppies only eat meat? Although dogs are often considered to be carnivores, they would eat their prey whole in the wild. By eating the guts of their herbivorous and omnivorous prey, they would eat some vegetable matter too. Puppy feeding quiz Test your knowledge and find out how much you've learnt by taking our quiz Start the quiz How often should you feed a three month old puppy? Once a day Three times a day Correct! For all breed sizes, three month old puppies require three equally sized meals a day. Puppies are unable to regulate their food intake, so more regular, smaller portions are gentler on their digestive system. Next question Go back Wrong For all breed sizes, three month old puppies require three equally sized meals a day. Next question. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.